Tour operator
Devour Tours Madrid
Food and tapas tours of Madrid's historic taverns, markets and neighbourhoods in small groups, plus cooking classes and Prado tours with a meal at Botín.
The Wellington Society of Madrid
Historian Stephen Drake-Jones's society, founded in 1979, offering characterful history walks in Madrid and day trips to Toledo, Segovia and beyond.
At a glance
- Type
- Historical walking tours and day trips
- Area
- Centro (meeting points vary), Madrid, Spain
- Official site
- wellsoc.org
Good to know
- Expert historian guide
- Private tours
- Day trips
- Battlefield tours
Why we recommend it
The Wellington Society of Madrid is one of the city's most individual tour operators. It was founded in 1979 by Stephen Drake-Jones, a historian and author, and he still leads the tours himself. The society takes its name from the Duke of Wellington, whose campaigns in the Peninsular War against Napoleon's armies are one of Drake-Jones's specialities, and anyone who takes a tour becomes a member of the society. The link with Madrid is a real one: during the Peninsular War, Wellington's army entered the city in August 1812 after the Battle of Salamanca, and it was in Madrid that Goya painted the portrait of the Duke that now hangs in the National Gallery in London.
The core offer is a range of walking tours of Madrid. These cover the history of the city and its people, with themed options such as a Hemingway walk tracing the writer's haunts, museum visits, and tours that combine history with wine and tapas stops. The style is personal and anecdotal, with plenty of stories, opinions and humour, and the walks are as much about the character of the guide as the sights themselves.
Beyond the city, the society runs day excursions to Toledo, Segovia and other historic towns within reach of Madrid, as well as tours of Peninsular War battlefields, which appeal to military history enthusiasts. Custom private tours can also be arranged around a particular interest.
The Wellington Society suits curious travellers, history lovers and anyone who enjoys a guide with strong opinions and a wealth of knowledge. It is best for adults and older teenagers, as the focus is on storytelling and history rather than games. Tours are arranged directly, so contact the society in advance by phone, WhatsApp or email to check dates and availability and to agree the meeting point.
Because tours are led personally, availability depends on the schedule of the guide, so it is wise to book early, particularly in spring and autumn. Wear comfortable shoes for the walking tours, and expect a relaxed pace with time for questions and the occasional drink. Meeting points in central Madrid are confirmed when you book.
The Wellington Society of Madrid FAQs
Who leads the tours?
The historian and author Stephen Drake-Jones, who founded the society.
When was the society founded?
In 1979.
What tours are offered?
Madrid walking tours, including Hemingway, museum and wine themes, plus day trips and battlefield tours.
Can I take a day trip?
Yes, to Toledo, Segovia and other historic towns.
Are private tours available?
Yes, custom private tours can be arranged.
How do I book?
Contact the society directly by phone, WhatsApp or email.
Do I become a member?
Yes, taking a tour makes you a member of the Wellington Society of Madrid.
Where do tours start?
Meeting points in central Madrid are confirmed when you book.