Powerful Women of London – Walking Through Herstory This June
London's streets are rich with the legacies of remarkable women who have influenced politics, medicine, architecture, and social reform. This June, immerse yourself in their stories through curated walking tours and events that honor their contributions.
1. Celebrating Our Voice: Walking Women’s History
Date: Saturday, 21 June 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Starting Point: Emmeline and Christobel Memorial, Victoria Tower Gardens, Millbank
Organized by: RIBA and SAVE Britain’s Heritage
Overview: This guided tour delves into the often-overlooked contributions of women to London's architectural landscape. Led by experts from RIBA and SAVE, participants will explore how gender, social movements, and cultural changes have influenced the design and use of public spaces. The tour features readings and landmark case studies, offering reflections on the legacy and visibility of women in design.
2. Women and Medicine London Walking Tour
Date: Saturday, 14 June 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Starting Point: Euston Station, Euston Road
Organized by: London Guided Walks
Overview: Discover the remarkable journeys of England's pioneering women in medicine, such as Elizabeth Garrett Anderson and Louisa Aldrich-Blake. This tour explores the historic sites where these trailblazers challenged norms and paved the way for future generations of female medical practitioners.
3. Power, Profit and Progress: Women in the City Walk
Date: Sunday, 15 June 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Starting Point: Cannon Street Station
Organized by: London Guided Walks
Overview: This walking tour shines a light on the hidden figures and unsung heroes of London's female-focused history. Experience the city through the lens of women who fought for workers’ rights, founded charities, and made significant contributions to the capital’s vibrant history.
4. Votes for Women! Suffragettes in Bow Street and Beyond! Walking Tour
Date: Sunday, 22 June 2025
Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Starting Point: Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue, London
Organized by: Herstorical Tours
Overview: Retrace the footsteps of the suffragettes on this theatrical walking tour that brings the militant campaign to life. The tour focuses on women's stories in London's history, highlighting the efforts and sacrifices made in the fight for women's suffrage.
5. Women of Bloomsbury Walking Tour
Date: Various dates in June 2025
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Organized by: Women of London
Overview: Explore the Bloomsbury neighborhood, known for its association with Virginia Woolf and the Bloomsbury group. This tour follows in the footsteps of notable women including Woolf, World War II Resistance agent Noor Inayat Khan, and Mary Prince, the first Black woman to write a memoir of her time in slavery. The tour features sights you won't find in standard guidebooks.
6. Women in Art: National Gallery Tour
Date: Various dates in June 2025
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Organized by: Women of London
Overview: This gallery tour celebrates the contributions of women in the history of art. For centuries, art history has been studied through the achievements of men. This tour aims to change that narrative by highlighting a wide range of themes surrounding women in art within the National Gallery's collection.
7. Suffragettes in Westminster Walking Tour
Date: Friday, 18 July 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Starting Point: Details provided upon booking
Organized by: London Guided Walks
Overview: Visit key locations in Westminster where the Suffragettes organized and carried out their campaign to gain the vote. This tour delves into the rich history of women who shaped London, from medieval nuns to modern activists.
8. Herstorical Tours: Theatrical Walking Tours
Dates: Various dates in June 2025
Organized by: Herstorical Tours
Overview: Herstorical Tours offers guided walking tours focusing on women's hidden stories in London's history, brought to life using theatre. Immerse yourself in 'Herstorical' London and uncover the narratives of women who have shaped the city's past.
Final Thoughts
June 2025 presents a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of women's history in London. These walking tours offer insightful narratives that celebrate the achievements and contributions of women across various fields. Whether you're a history enthusiast or looking to explore the city through a new lens, these experiences promise to be both educational and inspiring.
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