About this Event
Discover how Prince Albert instigated the development of London’s first district dedicated to arts and science, financed from the profits of the Great Exhibition of 1851. Formerly Brompton, the area was rebranded South Kensington.
Exploring the area's High Victorian architecture, we'll decode the symbols which asserted the dominance of Western ideas and technology, as well as the power of monarchy and empire.
The walk focuses on the V&A, the lost Imperial Institute, the controversial façade of the Royal School of Mines, the Memorial to the Exhibition of 1851, the Royal Albert Hall and the Albert Memorial.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "As a Londoner of decades standing, I thought I knew everything about the Exhibition Road. I didn’t. Monarchy and Empire was a fascinating walk which introduced me to key players I’d never heard of and buildings and memorials I’d never noticed. Jo[anna] is an informed and approachable walk leader. Highly recommended."
Grace Spicer - Google
Photo 1: ©Frédérique Cifuentes
Photo 2: ©James Tye, Great Exhibition Road Festival
Event venue & nearby stays
Outside the V&A Exhibition Road Entrance, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2PA, Princes Gate, London, United Kingdom
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.