The Jermyn Street Experience

Cindy was an absolute delight and had such a wealth of knowledge! The tour was meant to last for two hours, but she extended it and made it three! Being a historian, who is deeply interested in cultural history and Bond, Cindy personalised the tour by ensuring that she added specific Bond and Fleming related anecdotes and stories! I would highly recommend being taken around by Cindy; she knows the retailers and can give you access to areas that might not be possible, if one were to venture in themselves. Thank you very much Cindy! I look forward to another one of your tours!

On 23 March I took the ‘Mens Fashion Heritage Tour’ on something of a whim thanks to a ludicrously cheap deal courtesy of Amazon Local. I was not disappointed, and it proved to be the most entertaining afternoon of my year so far!
Although already familiar with the general vicinity, it soon became apparent that there was still much to learn about the sometimes less-​than-​illustrious but ever-​rich history of what is now regarded as one of London’s smartest enclaves.
I was fortunate enough to have Dr Lawford’s undivided attention as the sole attendee (come on folks — you are missing a trick here!), and besides the sensational stories she knowledgeably expounds about business, bawdiness, clothing and characters, the real draw for many will be the unique access the good Doctor has to the usually-​unseen back-​of-​house operations that lie behind the various shops which may seem preserved in aspic, yet still bustle with activity to keep pace with the modern markets.
You may visit the rare treats of Berry Bros & Rudd’s cellar, Lock’s hat store, Fox’s cigar humidor, Lobb’s shoe factory, and Gieves & Hawkes’ fitting and cutting rooms, among other little hidden gems. Each liveried lackey seemed happy to beckon Cindy in when she appeared distinctly dressed in red at their window, enthusing authentically about their trade and always-​fascinating history. Honestly readers, there won’t be many tours that can gain such generous ingress to the bowels of these businesses, and one is received more like a friend than another tedious tourist!
For anyone interested in the history behind the geography of this part of the city, Cindy’s informative yet informal trawl from St James Street to Savile Row is unmissable. Even without a voucher, it’s a steal so don’t hesitate to give her a call and get on board.