Blake & Defoe’s London: Literary Tour & Writing Workshop

If you’re looking to add a literary twist to your London visit, Blake & Defoe’s London: Literary Tour & Writing Workshop offers an engaging blend of history, poetry, storytelling, and hands-on creative work. This 1.5-hour experience is perfect for anyone eager to connect more deeply with London’s literary past while exercising their own writing muscles. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or simply curious about the city’s poetic roots, this tour promises to inspire.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it combines a guided exploration of iconic literary sites with interactive writing exercises led by an award-winning novelist with a PhD in Creative Writing. Second, it offers a unique chance to stand at the gravesite of William Blake and reflect on his visionary poetry, or to walk in the footsteps of Daniel Defoe’s infamous Moll Flanders.

On the flip side, it’s a short session—just an hour and a half—so those craving a comprehensive literary deep-dive might find it a bit light. Also, because it’s an outdoor and partly participatory experience, weather can influence comfort, so bring an umbrella.

This experience is a fantastic fit for writers of all levels, literary enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy seeing a city through a creative lens. If you’re eager to combine history, art, and writing in an intimate setting, this tour should definitely be on your London list.

Key Points

• Interactive and inspiring: Combines literary history with hands-on writing exercises.
• Expert guide: Led by a knowledgeable, award-winning novelist with a PhD in Creative Writing.
• Unique stops: Visit William Blake’s grave, explore street poetry at The Barbican, and follow in Moll Flanders’ footsteps.
• No entrance fees required: All locations are free to access.
• Short and flexible: Perfect for a quick dose of culture and creativity in the city.
• Suitable for all writers: From beginners to experienced authors seeking inspiration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering London’s Literary Roots

This tour offers a delightful mix of guided storytelling and creative activity in some of London’s most evocative spots. Starting in Bunhill Fields cemetery, you’ll find yourself just a short walk from Old Street Underground station. Here, the guide introduces you to William Blake’s grave, where you’ll get a glimpse of his passionate poetry and visionary ideas. The guide encourages you to channel Blake’s sincerity as a prompt for your own writing, making this a deeply personal and creative start.

What’s especially appealing about this part of the tour is how it connects the physical space with literary history. Blake’s grave is unassuming but profoundly meaningful, and standing there while reflecting on his work fosters a sense of intimacy with a poet who challenged conventions in both art and religion. From here, the group heads to The Barbican, where street poetry lines the walls, creating a modern counterpoint to historic literature. You’ll craft a poetic response to street art and then head to a nearby café for sharing and gentle critique.

Next, the tour takes you through the world of Daniel Defoe and his criminal heroine, Moll Flanders. Walking around Smithfield, you’ll read about Moll’s escapades and consider her as a symbol of resilience and rebellion. This part of the tour invites you to think about storytelling from a gritty, real-world perspective—a refreshing change from more polished literary narratives.

The final stop, St Giles’ Cripplegate, offers a striking setting for wrapping up your creative exercises. Here, your final piece is shaped amidst the church’s historic stones, making for a memorable conclusion that blends architecture, history, and literary inspiration.

What to Expect

You’ll start at the green in Bunhill Fields, where the guide welcomes you and explains the plan. No tickets are needed—just bring your notebook, pens, and an umbrella if rain threatens. The guide’s local knowledge and engaging storytelling make each stop lively and educational.

The first activity involves reading Blake’s poetry and trying to capture his visionary spirit in your own words. The atmosphere is supportive and inclusive, making even shy writers feel comfortable. The outdoor setting and historical ambiance truly help spark creative ideas.

Moving on to The Barbican, you’ll encounter street poetry—this modern form of expression offers a stark contrast to Blake’s visionary verses. The workshop encourages you to respond poetically, fostering a sense of connection between past and present. Afterward, the group shares work over coffee, receiving constructive feedback in a relaxed environment.

In the Moll Flanders segment, you’ll walk through the historic streets of Smithfield, reading excerpts and imagining Moll’s life. This storytelling element helps bring the literature to life, making her story resonate with today’s visitors.

Finally, at St Giles’ Church, participants craft a final piece that synthesizes everything they’ve experienced—be it a poem, a short story, or a reflective paragraph—set against the backdrop of one of London’s oldest churches.

The Experience and Its Value

One reviewer noted, “I like the design of a niche route that is not noisy but has history. I can experience historical culture in a modern city, do writing exercises with teachers, stimulate the creative vitality of the brain, and have a good connection and integration with the environment.” This highlights how the tour offers a thoughtful, low-key but deeply engaging experience.

Another praised the tour’s knowledgeable guides, who bring a wealth of literary and historical insight. Their ability to blend storytelling with practical writing prompts is what makes this experience truly stand out. The workshop-like nature encourages participation and makes it more than just a sightseeing walk.

Considering the cost—since no entry tickets are needed and the workshop is relatively short—the experience offers great value for those wanting a meaningful, creative encounter with London’s literary side. It’s especially appealing because it’s private group, meaning you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the guide can tailor interactions to the group’s interests and skill levels.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with checkable start times depending on availability. It’s accessible for wheelchair users, which broadens its appeal. Since it’s outdoor-prone, bringing an umbrella is a sensible idea, especially if the weather is unpredictable.

For the best experience, bring a notebook, pens, and internet access (if you want to look up additional info or share your work online). The tour ends back at the starting point, so you can easily continue exploring nearby areas.

While the experience is suitable for all, writers at any level—whether just starting or seasoned—will find value here. The emphasis on creative response and personal expression helps everyone find their voice.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy literary history and are interested in creative writing, this tour is a perfect fit. It works well for solo travelers wanting a meaningful activity, small groups, or even couples who appreciate literature and art. It’s also ideal for those who prefer interactive experiences over passive sightseeing.

Travelers seeking a serene, inspiring environment amidst London’s sometimes hectic pace will appreciate this opportunity to slow down and reflect through writing. It’s a rare chance to truly connect with the city’s literary past in a very personal way.

FAQs

• Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

No, tickets are not required, and you can reserve your spot online. The tour can be booked with flexibility, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?

While not explicitly stated, the creative writing focus and historical content can appeal to younger writers, especially those with an interest in literature. It’s best for older children or teenagers who can participate actively.

• What should I bring?

Bring a notebook, pens, and an umbrella just in case. Internet access is helpful for researching or sharing your work.

• How accessible is the tour?

It is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

• Will I get to see specific famous writers’ graves?

Yes, you’ll visit William Blake’s grave and learn about his work in a very personal way.

• How long is the tour?

The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Final Thoughts

Blake & Defoe’s London: Literary Tour & Writing Workshop offers a rare opportunity to experience London’s literary history while actively engaging in creative expression. This intimate, guided experience balances storytelling, history, and personal writing exercises, making it a rewarding choice for travelers with a passion for words and stories. The knowledgeable guides, relaxed atmosphere, and focus on individual response make it a memorable way to see and feel the city’s cultural heartbeat.

If you love stories, poetry, or just want to see London through a more creative lens, this tour is a fantastic option. It’s especially valuable for those who find inspiration in history and environment—and who enjoy sharing their work in a friendly, supportive group.

Whether you’re a writer seeking inspiration or a curious traveler wanting a unique cultural activity, this experience delivers a thoughtful, meaningful taste of London’s literary soul.

You can check availability for your dates here: