Unseen Tours

Unseen Tours is a not-for-profit social enterprise whose London walking tours are led by guides with personal experience of homelessness. Each guide shares the history and character of a particular neighbourhood alongside their own stories and perspective, offering a view of the city that most visitors never see. The model is designed to create meaningful work and income for the guides, and 60 per cent of the money from public tours goes directly to the guide leading the walk.

Each tour is built around a specific area and a specific guide. Current public routes include London Bridge with David, King's Cross with Ben, Canary Wharf and West India Quay with Stefan, and Brixton and Stockwell with Rah. The walks mix local history, architecture and hidden corners with honest personal insight into life on the streets and the services and communities that support people experiencing homelessness. Because the guides know their areas intimately, the tours often reveal places and stories that do not appear in standard guidebooks.

The tours suit curious travellers, Londoners, students and anyone who wants a thoughtful, human perspective on the city. They work well for solo travellers and small groups, and the conversation is usually relaxed and open, with time for questions. Groups are typically small, around eight to twelve people, which keeps the experience personal. Private tours can be arranged for families, friends, schools and companies, and the organisation also offers team-building sessions.

Public walks typically last around two hours. Tickets are booked online through the official website, with concessions and a reduced price for children accompanied by a paying adult. Meeting points and times are given at booking. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as tours take place outdoors.

Because the tours take place in different neighbourhoods across London, there is no central office to visit. Enquiries about private bookings and team events can be sent by email through the official website. Booking a walk in an area you might not otherwise explore, such as Brixton or Canary Wharf, is a good way to see a different side of the city while supporting a social enterprise.