"They thrived on the rapid turnover of acquaintances, the lack of involvement with others, and the total self-sufficiency of lives which, needing nothing, were never disappointed"

JG Ballard, High-Rise

Join me in an exploratory walk at the vertical neighbourhoods of London’s East End and the Docklands, or discover the capital’s satellite New Towns. There, we will connect with the fascinating narrative of London’s urban transformation : from Victorian slum sprawls and wartime devastation, to post-war ambition and monumental Modernist rebirth. But we will also witness design failures, changing perceptions, and the betrayal of the powers that be : everything that brought about the decline of Britain's Welfare State, and with it, the demise of New Towns and Council Estates as a model for future communities.

The tour series revolves around 5 distinctive localities in and around Greater London : Thamesmead, Islington, Poplar, Stevenage, and Harlow. Each has its own distinctive character, history, and outlook - and each is also connected with the others through a strong undercurrent of Modernist principles and Welfare State mentality. We will see why and how plans were made, people believed, and townships thrived, failed and/or survived in the course of the past 70 years.

Naturally, we'll take a lot of photos, and on occasion, we'll meet up with locals for a chat. There's also the promise of a hearty local meal, which isn't included in the tour price.

At Islington, I'll introduce you to the social, political and architectural background of early 20th century London. We will visit Berthold Lubetkin's significant works there : the ground breaking estates at Bevin Court, Spa Green, and Priory Green, as well as the majestic Finsbury Health Centre. We will also view the Brutalist Camden Town Hall Annexe and Weston Rise estates near Kings Cross, the towers of Finsbury Estate and Turnpike House, and finish at the beautiful Golden Lane estate in Clerkenwell. Throughout the walk, we will be discussing the influence of the Modernist movement on London's post-war urban regeneration. (Approx 3 hours)

Meeting Point the suggested meeting point is at King's Cross / St. Pancras.

Please note the minimum number of tickets per booking is 2.