A Stroll Through St. James's: Painters, Pelicans, and Piccadilly

One of a series of free walks from the Westminster Guides supported by Inside Out to celebrate open-air arts and culture in Westminster!
About this Event

Discover the captivating area of St James’s and its rich and challenging history. From the Palace and Park, to the Church and Square.

Please meet at the bottom of the steps in front of the column of the Duke of York (SW1Y 5AJ). Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the start time. The walk will finish at the front courtyard of the Royal Academy of Arts (Burlington House W1J 0BD).

With inspiration spanning centuries, this part of Westminster boasts picturesque green spaces and spectacularly crafted buildings. The tour will delve into the intrigue of the royals who have resided in the area, from Tudors to Georgians, Stuarts to modern Elizabethans. Find out about the diverse wildlife and birds who formed the backdrop of Henry VIII’s and Charles II’s courts. Learn how croquet and pelicans frequented the park and later formed their own road! You may even see some of these exotic birds on the tour.

The walk will also look at the influence of artistic pursuits, including popular painting styles and fashion icons. From the success of German master Holbein to the English founders of the Royal Academy of Arts. From pioneers of pantaloons to modern day broadcasts of pageants along The Mall.

In addition, this tour will explore some of the lesser known but vital voices and their bravery and resilience. These include the writer Ottobah Cugoano and his collaborations with the Sons of Africa movement in securing sanctuary for and freeing enslaved individuals and groups in the 1700’s. Find out also about contemporary sculpture to remember the atrocities of the Vietnam war, and the City of Westminster’s ongoing programming of contemporary instillations for emerging artists.

This is one of 25 "A Wander through Westminster" Walks offered by the City of Westminster Guides in conjunction with the Inside Out Programme that celebrates open-air art and culture in Westminster. Why not join in other Inside Out activities on offer: https://www.westminster.gov.uk/leisure-libraries-and-community/arts-and-culture/experience-inside-out-westminsters-free-outdoor-arts-festival?

Some Practical Details:

Please dress for the weather, with light, breathable attire, a hat, sunglasses, fan, and sunscreen in the case of hot weather and an umbrella and rainwear should the weather be inclement. Wear sensible shoes or sandals and carry a bottle of water with you.

All walks are led by trained City of Westminster Guides who love to share their knowledge of the borough with residents and visitors. Please respect their time and efforts by cancelling your place should you not be able to attend to allow someone else to join.