London By Gaslight – lamps, lanterns and ladders

A small proportion of London's street lighting dates back to the late Georgian era. Look carefully into the glass lanterns to see that some lamps are still gas-powered, offering a soft warm glow. But this old form of lighting is gradually disappearing as we move away from fossil fuels.

Thousands of lamps have already been retro-fitted with LED bulbs and, for economical and ecological reasons, there are plans to modernise the rest. But that would be a shame because gas mantles emit a much softer light compared to their modern replacements, and this you'll be able to experience in person.

This route visits the sites of some of the first companies to be involved with what was then a new form of lighting.

Hear the history of the first gas lamps and how the streets became brighter due to the innovations of 1813. See the site of the original gasworks and hear how that site was later repurposed. Follow a trail of gas lamps from there to the first building lit internally by gas. Hear about one of the earliest lantern manufacturers, a company that is still in business today, and walk along evocative residential streets where the lamp lights are burning just as they did 200 years ago

You will also hear how the lamps are maintained today and learn what is being done to preserve this form of street lighting.

Also available: Victoria to Covent Garden via Buckingham Palace (different content to this route) – For all my London by Gaslight tours click here.

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• The walk lasts approx two hours, starting near Pimlico station and ending near St James's Park station.
• The exact meeting point will be clearly described on your ticket – sent via email after purchase
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Customer feedback: " I came back for more because I really like your presentation style" / "Such a marvellous idea for a route. Well done and thanks Jane" / "When I got home I spent hours googling this. I've now become Gasketeer follower – thanks." / "An inspirational and educational couple of hours – we'll be back for more soon!" / "Really interesting and your knowledge is amazing! Thank you" / "I loved the mix of history and details" / "That was excellent!" / More feedback here

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Other walks and talks available – please check my listings or see www.janeslondonwalks.com

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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FAQs

What is the minimum age to attend this event?

• There is no minimum age
• No charge for children aged 5 or younger. Children 6-15yrs = concession rate
• 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.

Where exactly does this tour start?

• Details of the exact meeting point will written in plain written english on your booking confirmation and ticket which will both be sent via email after purchase. This info will be at the bottom, so keep scrolling down!

What if I am running late?

• Details of the first part of the route will be explained near the bottom of your emailed ticket

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 7 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?

• There are some dark and uneven paths in the parks, although this section can be bypassed without loss of content. The same applies to a flight of steps near St Anne's Gate. However, I would recommend assistance in these areas.

How can I contact the organiser?

• Email: jane@janeslondon.com
• Mobile: +44(0)7941 475003
• Instagram/Facebook: janeslondonwalks