Gangsters of Soho Tour

The Gangsters of Soho Tour provides a captivating exploration of the rich and notorious history that has long defined this iconic London neighborhood. Led by a seasoned local guide with over three decades of experience, the 2-hour walking tour takes participants on a journey through Soho’s past, uncovering its connections to infamous gangsters like the Kray twins, as well as the area’s vibrant music scene and seedy strip joints. With the aid of historical photos and images displayed on a unique 14-tablet device, tour-goers gain a unique and fascinating insight into the diverse tapestry that has shaped Soho’s captivating legacy. What secrets and scandals lie waiting to be unveiled?

Key Points

1. The tour explores the infamous history of Soho, including the criminal activities of notorious gangsters like the Kray twins.
2. Participants will visit locations associated with Soho’s seedy nightlife, including strip clubs and hangouts of underworld figures.
3. The tour utilizes a 14-tablet device to showcase historical photos and images, providing a unique insight into the neighborhood’s past.
4. The 2-hour guided exploration is led by a local with 35 years of experience in the area during the 1960s and 1970s.
5. The tour covers Soho’s vibrant music scene, including the legendary 2Is Coffee Bar, a hub for up-and-coming artists.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Gangsters of Soho Tour is a 2-hour guided exploration of the area’s rich history, led by a local guide with 35 years of experience in the neighborhood during the 1960s and 1970s.

Guests will have the chance to see historical photos and images of people and places on a 14-tablet device, as they learn about famous and infamous individuals who made Soho their home.

The tour covers the area’s fascinating past, including its gangsters, clubs, music scene, and strip joints.

Starting at Oxford Circus, the tour stops at landmarks like the London Palladium, Carnaby Street, and the Flamingo Club before ending at 58 Greek Street.

Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Highlights

Exploring the area’s history, the tour highlights famous and infamous individuals who made Soho their home, with guests viewing historical photos and images on a 14-tablet device.

The guide shares tales of Soho’s gangsters, clubs, music scene, and strip joints, offering a glimpse into the vibrant and sometimes seedy underbelly of this iconic neighborhood.

Visitors learn about the legendary 2Is Coffee Bar, a hub for early rock and roll, as well as the notorious Kray twins, who controlled much of the criminal activity in Soho.

Through these captivating stories, the tour provides a unique insight into the rich and diverse history that has shaped the character of this dynamic area of London.

Starting Location and Route

The tour begins at Oxford Circus, where visitors are led on a journey through Soho’s storied past.

Along the way, the group stops at iconic landmarks like the London Palladium, Carnaby Street, and the renowned Soho Mural, before venturing to the Raymonds Revue Bar, Flamingo Club, and the former stomping grounds of the notorious Kray twins.

The tour culminates at 58 Greek Street, providing a comprehensive exploration of Soho’s rich and captivating history.

From the music scene to the gangsters, this guided tour offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant and sometimes seedy underbelly of one of London’s most legendary neighborhoods.

Restrictions

To ensure the safety and comfort of all participants, certain restrictions apply to this Gangsters of Soho tour.

Children under 14 and individuals over 95 years old aren’t permitted to join the tour.

Plus, the tour prohibits the carrying of weapons, sharp objects, bicycles, alcohol, drugs, unaccompanied minors, skateboards, scooters, and skates.

Audio recording is also not allowed during the tour.

These restrictions are in place to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The tour guide will provide detailed information about the rules and expectations at the start of the tour, and participants are expected to comply with these guidelines throughout the duration of the experience.

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Pricing and Booking

The Gangsters of Soho tour is priced at $25.95 per person. Participants can reserve their spot now and pay later to secure their attendance.

Availability for starting times can be checked on the tour’s website.

The tour offers several advantages for booking:

• Flexibility to reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan ahead
• Ability to check availability for different starting times to find the best fit
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprises

Famous Individuals in Soho

Soho’s rich history is marked by the presence of famous and infamous individuals who made the area their home, from legendary gangsters to celebrated musicians and entertainers.

The tour explores the lives and legacies of these iconic figures, such as the notorious Kray twins, who were key players in the East End’s criminal underworld.

Visitors will also learn about the vibrant music scene, with the 2i’s Coffee Bar serving as a hub for up-and-coming artists like Cliff Richard and Adam Faith.

The tour delves into the seamier side of Soho as well, uncovering the area’s reputation for strip clubs and brothels frequented by the rich and powerful.

Gangster History of Soho

Besides the vibrant music and entertainment scene, Soho’s history is inextricably linked to the presence of notorious gangsters who left an indelible mark on the area during the mid-20th century.

From the Kray twins‘ stranglehold on the local underworld to the seedy strip joints that attracted a criminal element, Soho’s dark underbelly is a fascinating aspect of its past.

The Kray twins, Ronald and Reggie, were two of the most feared gangsters in London, running protection rackets, extortion schemes, and even committing murder in the Soho area.

Infamous strip clubs like the Raymonds Revue Bar were hotbeds of criminal activity, attracting gangsters and shady characters who frequented these establishments.

The 2Is Coffee Bar, a popular hangout for musicians, was also known to have hosted meetings between local gangsters and underworld figures.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Alongside its notorious criminal element, Soho also boasted a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene that drew in patrons from across London and beyond.

From the iconic Flamingo Club to the legendary Raymonds Revue Bar, Soho was a hub for musicians, artists, and pleasure-seekers alike.

The area’s strip joints and cabarets were notorious, with the 2Is Coffee Bar serving as a epicenter for the burgeoning British rock and roll scene.

Celebrities, gangsters, and everyday Londoners all mingled in the neon-lit streets, creating a lively and unpredictable atmosphere that was quintessentially Soho.

Despite the area’s seedy underbelly, its nightlife remains an indelible part of its rich and colorful history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Wheelchair Users?

The tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users, as the tour route and restrictions do not explicitly mention accommodations for mobility assistance. Visitors with accessibility needs should contact the tour operator to inquire about specific accommodations.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Guests are generally permitted to take photos during the tour, unless otherwise stated by the guide. However, audio recording may be restricted to ensure an optimal experience for all participants.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. Guests can arrange for a longer tour experience by contacting the tour operator in advance. Additional fees may apply for extending the tour time beyond the standard 2-hour length.

Do You Offer Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour company offers discounts for students and seniors. Students can receive a 10% discount, while seniors aged 65 and over are eligible for a 15% discount off the regular tour price of $25.95 per person.

Can I Join the Tour if I’m Not Fluent in English?

The tour welcomes guests who aren’t fluent in English. The local guide can provide translations or assistance during the tour to ensure all participants can fully understand and enjoy the experience, regardless of their language proficiency.

Recap

The Gangsters of Soho Tour offers a captivating look into the neighborhood’s notorious past. Led by an experienced local guide, the 2-hour walking tour takes visitors through Soho’s connections to infamous gangsters, vibrant music scene, and seedy strip joints.

Participants can view historical photos and gain unique insights into Soho’s diverse history, making it an engaging experience for those interested in the area’s captivating and sometimes sinister past.

You can check if your dates are available here: