Read, Watch, and Listen: London Edition

London is more than just a city; it’s a cultural and historical tapestry waiting to be explored. Whether you’re planning a visit or reminiscing about past trips, these curated recommendations to read, watch, and listen will help you dive deeper into London’s vibrant spirit and rich history.

Read

Bizarre London by David Long

This quirky guidebook explores London’s oddities, from ghostly tales to boozy landmarks. As Context guide and historian Harry explains, “It has stories about quirky little things and different places in London. It’s fun, and it has things you won’t find in other guidebooks.”

Girl, Woman, Other by Bernadine Evaristo

A richly woven portrait of contemporary London, this Booker Prize-winning novel tackles social and historical issues through the lives of twelve interconnected characters. Food writer Alice says, “For me, the novel represents a portrait of a living, breathing, and incredibly layered London.”

Shrines of Gaiety by Kate Atkinson

Take a journey to Soho in the roaring 1920s with this deeply researched historical fiction. Alice describes it as “a great time capsule of Soho in the 1920s… The entertainment value is high.”

Dickens by Peter Ackroyd

Immerse yourself in Charles Dickens’ life and the London he inhabited with this comprehensive biography. Tim, Context expert, historian and musician, notes, “You can trace his walks through the city and see references to various places that he saw along the way. He knew these streets, and this biography will help you know them as well.”

Watch

The Crown

This acclaimed Netflix series offers a stunning introduction to 20th-century British royal history. Historian Harry adds, “Anyone who’s seen this tends to have a good head start in understanding modern British history in general.”

Ted Lasso

This heartwarming comedy series provides a fresh perspective on England’s national obsession: football. Tim reflects, “Watching this, you get a sideways look at the national obsession. Then you can play 'spot the filming location' when you arrive.”

Fleabag

A raw and witty depiction of life in modern London, Fleabag captures the city’s energy like no other. Alice shares, “I feel Fleabag captures the specific energy of London in such an authentic way.”

Listen

The Rest is History Podcast – London Week

Join Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland as they walk through iconic sites like Trafalgar Square and Westminster, weaving in fascinating historical insights. Harry calls it “a five-episode series, and they’re all good.”

"London Girls" by Tori Amos

This song beautifully intertwines London’s ever-shifting nature with a touch of Americana. “It has a real London feel to it,” says Alice.

Ladies Who London Podcast

Hosted by two Blue Badge guides, this podcast is a treasure trove of quirky London stories. Harry dips into it occasionally, praising the casual yet fascinating insights.

The Vernon Spring by Sam Beste

This jazz album captures London’s mysterious and intricate nature. Alice describes it as “the mood of a London which is mysterious, intricate, and elusive.”

From page-turning novels to evocative podcasts, these recommendations will transport you to London’s streets, landmarks, and stories. Whether you’re looking to be inspired, entertained, or simply connect with the city, there’s something here for everyone.

Happy exploring!