DO: THE ALTERNATIVE LONDON WALKING TOUR

Where better to start for my first ever post than sharing with you the best date I have ever been on (I arranged it, sure). How better to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon in the sun (disclaimer: sun not guaranteed) than strolling around the culturally-soaked artistic hub that is London’s east end, with your very own guide.

In a group of around 15 (small enough to stick together and feel acknowledged, big enough to make friends), we were amiably herded from Spitalfields market to Brick Lane and back in a loop strategically planned to show off the finest and most current street art in the area. Our guide hopped from canvas to canvas, painting a picture of the history of East London and its most influential residents. He explained the techniques and stories behind the wonderful paintings and figurines we came across- many of which represented cryptic political viewpoints. The artists included seemingly omnipresent Banksy, and ‘Stik’- whose controversial yet beautifully simple work has been commissioned by celebrities including Elton John (see: http://www.stik.org.uk).

In two hours we glided through the sights and scents of buzzing Moorgate, Shoreditch and Hoxton- stopping for snacks and market trinkets at the multicultural stalls along the way. One of the best things about our sunny afternoon of art was that it was a pay-what-you-like situation, literally making it worth every penny you.
So, if you’re looking for something cheap, insightful and a little different to fill a lazy afternoon with then I can’t recommend these guys enough. What’s more, they also hold cycling tours for those who fancy going even further into East London and its history, and workshops on double decker buses for the budding artists among you. Check out their website (below) for descriptions, timings and contact details. http://www.alternativeldn.co.uk/