Central London: Secret Walking Tour & Hidden Oddities

Summary

Curious corners and odd stories on foot in Covent Garden

You’ll wander gas-lit lanes in central London searching for oddities like the world’s smallest police station and the Duke of Wellington’s nose—with stories from your local guide along the way. Expect surprise details in Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, plus unexpected laughs and moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked off the main drag in Covent Garden, following our guide who seemed to know every shortcut and strange little alley. The city felt different right away—quieter, almost like it was holding its breath. I caught a whiff of something sweet from a bakery, mixed with that old-stone smell you only get in London after rain. Our guide (Sam? Or maybe Stan—I should’ve written it down) pointed out a tiny glass box tucked into Trafalgar Square. “That’s the world’s smallest police station,” he said, grinning. I had to squint; honestly, I’d walked past it before and never noticed. A couple of locals laughed as we tried to fit three of us inside for a photo. It was a squeeze.

We turned another corner and Sam—let’s go with Sam—asked if anyone could spot the Duke of Wellington’s nose. None of us did at first; then someone gasped and there it was, stuck just above an archway, totally out of place. I still don’t know why it made me laugh so much. There was this weird sense that London’s got jokes hidden everywhere if you’re looking close enough. The air tasted like car fumes and roasted chestnuts (someone was selling them nearby), and I remember thinking how many layers this city has.

Later we wandered through Covent Garden proper—buskers singing under the arches, tourists snapping photos, but Sam kept us moving toward St Paul’s Church gardens for a quieter moment. He told us about actors sneaking through here between shows, which made sense when you saw all the theatre posters peeling off lampposts nearby. We ended near what he called “the most superstitious hotel in London”—I won’t spoil why, but let’s just say I’m still not sure if he was serious or winding us up.

I left with sore feet and more questions than answers, which is probably how you should feel after this kind of secret walking tour in central London. The oddest thing is how familiar streets suddenly seem new when someone else shows you where to look.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore hidden London landmarks

• Find smallest police station
• Search for Duke of Wellington's nose
• Visit St Paul's church and gardens
• Explore theatre district and superstitious hotel

Top questions

How long does the secret walking tour of Central London last?

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

What are some unique sights included on this walking tour?

You’ll see the world’s smallest police station, the Duke of Wellington’s nose, and visit Covent Garden as well as a famously superstitious hotel.

Is there a local guide on this Central London walking tour?

Yes, a professional guide leads the entire experience.

Does the tour include any famous landmarks?

The route passes through Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden.

Are dogs allowed on this walking tour?

No dogs are allowed except for guide dogs.

What level of fitness do I need for this Central London walk?

You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.

Does the tour include any activities besides walking?

The experience includes all activities described by your guide during the walk.

What’s included

Your day includes all guided activities throughout central London with stories at every stop—no extra tickets or bookings needed, just bring comfortable shoes and curiosity for what hides around each corner.