Tyrants and Radicals:
A political history of England at Westminster
Spend a morning exploring Royal Westminster and learn the often overlooked story of how England went from the rule of tyrannical monarchs to a democracy that would inspire the world.
Itinerary: Tour of Royal Westminster, including Buckingham Palace and Saint James's Palace | Break | Tour of parliamentary Westminster and more...
Prices*: £30 Adults | £20 Students & Seniors (18-21 or over 65) | £12 Children | Free under 5 years' old
Runs on Fridays from 10 am to 1.30 pm (approximately) with a break
Meets outside the Queen's Gallery
Part One: Mad Monarchs
Starting with the reigns of some of England's worst Kings and Queens, you'll discover tales of murder and intrigue which you didn't learn at school. You'll hear about Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, Mad King George III and his sons who almost bankrupted the country through incompetence and greed, and the sometimes uncomfortably close relationship between more recent monarchs and the Nazis in the 20th century.
Part Two: Power to the People
You’ll learn about the medieval peasant revolts against tyrannical kings, how the first Parliament was formed, the Glorious Revolution, the English Civil War, and how Britain eventually, almost accidentally, became a democracy. The tour culminates with how radicals fought for the rights of women and the working class to vote in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Highlights:
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Stroll around the historic centre of Westminster where you'll see Buckingham Palace, The Houses of Parliament, St James's Palace. Trafalgar Square and more.
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Hear horrifying facts about the murderous reigns of England's monarchs that you weren't taught at school.
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Discover stories of the forgotten heroes who fought for the rights we enjoy today.
What to bring:
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Comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
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Optional: Money for food; there will be a short break when you may wish to pick up some lunch/a snack.
* Prices subject to a 5% booking fee.