The Alluring Arcades and Alleyways of St James's and Piccadilly

London's covered shopping arcades have been delighting customers and window shoppers since the 1820s. See them at their twinkliest during the Christmas season, beautifully bedecked in baubles and bunting.

This 2-hour guided walk takes an evocative route from Pall Mall to Piccadilly via Regent Street and St James's, to visit six arcades, five of which are lined with shops offering tempting handmade, bespoke and unique products – perfect for customers looking to purchase unusual or bespoke items such as jewels, shoes, hats, umbrellas, silks, shirts, chocolates and other fine and dandy goods.

Wander through the covered aisles, wonder at the windows and marvel at the decor. Find out how these arcades came to be constructed and learn about some of the companies that have traded here, their names still visible, embedded within gilded and polished brass shopfronts.

Hear about a style-setter, a child genius, various links to royalty, opera and art, whips and whistling, cafes and confectionery, trinkets, toys and the Burlington Beadles.

We will also investigate some hidden courtyards, narrow passages and back streets that are equally evocative.

The specific meeting point will be supplied after ticket purchase – please see the FAQs below

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Customer feedback: "I came back for more because I really like your presentation style" / "...really interesting and your knowledge is amazing! Thank you" / "Having attended this as an online talk I was keen to experience it in person and I am so very glad that I made the effort. Also, it was nice having a drink with you after the walk. Thanks for all the ideas – you are a mine of info Jane" / "I loved the mix of history and details" / "Fascinating and so much content. Brilliant tour" / "I loved all the little nooks and crannies you showed us – all new to me. And thanks for those fab pub recommendations too!!" / More feedback here

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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Where does this walk start and what if I am running late?

• Important – please do not rely on QR codes, postcodes and maps sent via other apps as these often give incorrect information.

The specific meeting point will be clearly described in words within the Order Confirmation email sent to you immediately after your purchase

• Scroll down to see the Additional Information section near the bottom of the email where you will also find details of how to play catch-up should you be running late on the day.
• As a back-up, the same information will be sent to you within a reminder email 24hrs before the event.

What is the minimum age to attend this event?

• There is no minimum age
• No charge for children aged 5 or younger.
• All children 15 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult – one child per paying adult.

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 will be mostly on standard pavements although we do access a couple of narrow backstreets which are uneven and/or cobbled in places.

How can I contact the organiser?

• Email: [email protected]
• Mobile: +44(0)7941 475003
• Instagram/Facebook: janeslondonwalks

Host or Publisher Jane's London Walks