Soho Ghostsigns: top hats, tyres and tradesmen
About this Event
The walk starts near Soho Square – the specific meeting point will be supplied after purchase, written in plain english on your emailed ticket – please see the FAQs below.
Ghostsigns are the remains of historic advertising for businesses or brands that are no longer available at that site, or simply faded remnants of old forms of street-facing promotion.
Look above street level to see hints of history that show us how Soho has evolved throughout the decades. This two-hour circular walk illustrates how this multicultural village, a town within a city, still retains a diverse range of old signage that hints at its ever-changing history.
Hear the stories behind the names and companies depicted on the signs. Marvel at hand-painted boards for furniture-makers, garages, cafés, chemists and gentlemen's outfitters. See shop fronts, mosaics and metalwork offering a diverse range of products that are no longer available to us, such as turned wood, watches, weapons and waiters' outfits.
Customer feedback: "My husband and I have been on a few of your ghostsigns walking tours in the past... we thoroughly enjoy them." / "I have often wondered about some of the signs... and now I understand them" / "A delight. Thanks. We will be back for more walks with you soon." / "Your enthusiasm is infectious Jane" / "Loved it! And you managed to keep my teenagers entertained, which is no mean feat!!" / "This was so very interesting! There is so much still there but most people don't notice." / "I loved the mix of history and typographic details" / "...so engaging, thanks to your delivery style and obvious thirst for knowledge" / More feedback here
Other ghostsigns walks and talks available – please check my listings or see www.janeslondonwalks.com
My guiding style is inclusive, open and friendly. I design and research every tour myself – in fact, the research never ends. The walks and talks I offer are all on subjects that intrigue me and each one highlights a different facet of my personality. I am particularly interested in the architecture of our ever-changing streets and the little details on and above them. For more information, please visit www.janeslondonwalks.com
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FAQs
Where does this tour start and what if I am running late?
- Important – please do not rely on info and maps supplied by QR codes and apps as these often give incorrect or misleading information.
- The specific meeting point will be clearly described in words within an email sent to you immediately after your purchase...
– Scroll down to the Additional Information section at the bottom where you will also find details of how to play catch-up should you be running late on the day.
Can I just show up and pay on arrival?
- No – this is a ticketed event with a maximum group size – places must be booked in advance.
Do I have to bring a copy of my ticket to the event?
- No – you will simply be asked your name
Can I get a refund / is my ticket transferrable?
- As you can appreciate, refunds and reallocations do not apply to people who simply do not show up on the day!
- You can organise your own refund through Eventbrite's ticketing system up to 48 hours before the walk starts. However, please note that the booking fee (absorbed within the ticket price) is not refundable.
- Alternatively, I can hold your purchase for transfer to another Jane's London Walk within the next three months – please notify me in writing via email/text at least 48 hours before this walk is due to start.
What if it's raining?
- Walking tours will go ahead, rain or shine.
- However, if severely adverse conditions are forecast, or other unforeseen complications cause the event to be cancelled, you will receive notification and a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for wheelchairs?
- The walk is mostly on standard pavements, but please note that some backstreets in this area are uneven, narrow or cobbled.
How can I contact the organiser?
Email: [email protected]
Mobile: +44(0)7941 475003
Instagram/Facebook: janeslondonwalks
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 10.00 to GBP 18.00
