The Ghosts of Fitzrovia - toys, tiles, telephones and toilets

Remnants of old advertising, for brands and businesses that are no longer available today, still cling to the walls above our busy streets and help us tounderstand the local history of an area.

Fitzrovia the zone bordered by Euston Rd, Oxford St, Gt Portland St and Tottenham Court Rd, today mainly offices and residential, but look above street level to see hints of trades and businesses that were here when these streets were home to a diverse range of trades and services.

The signage here is wonderfully diverse, highlighting a variety of styles and products. Some signs are the hand-painted variety applied directly onto walls, but you will also see other interesting forms of advertising, such as the lovely mosaic shown here, as well as names and logos embedded within masonry or cast in metal.

Along the route you'll hear about the companies and products behind the signs. Learn about this area's manufacturing history, visible in signs for homewares, fashion and furniture, as well as antiques, printing, postage and plumbing.

• The walk lasts approx two hours and starts near Goodge Street station – the specific meeting place will be supplied after purchase – more info in the FAQs below
• Ends a few minutes' walk from Tottenham Court Rd station.

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Customer feedback: "I was so engrossed that it came as a surprise as we came to the end that two whole hours had passed" / "This was my favourite of your ghostsigns walks (so far!) due to the diversity of the types signage and some gorgeous shop fronts.Thanks again and see you soon." / "Your knowledge is amazing and I love your jolly style" / "I love how you point out all the little quirks and make it so much more interesting than other academic-style guides. And you make it fun too. Thanks" / "...so engaging, thanks to your delivery style and obvious thirst for knowledge" / More feedback here

Other ghostsigns tours available across London – and an Art Deco walk in this area is also available which further highlights the variety of businesses that used to trade in Fitzrovia. Please check my other listings or see www.janeslondonwalks.com

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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

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

Important re meeting point – please do not rely on QR codes and maps sent via other apps as these often give incorrect or misleading 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 the bottom of that email to the Additional Information section where you will find a written description of the meeting point as well as details of how to play catch-up should you be running late on the day. This info will also be re-sent the day before the walk.

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 2 days 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 we also venture down a coulple of back streets and narrow alleys that are uneven, narrow or cobbled, so you might need assistance.

How can I contact the organiser?

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

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