A social enterprise providing alternative London walking tours where the guides are homeless and formerly homeless people, has relaunched its Brixton tour after an 18-month break from the area and also plans to introduce a new London Bridge itinerary this summer. The revamped Brixton Tour – Dynamic and Vibrant (£10, 1 hour 45 min) uncovers the area’s hidden gems, from the river to a restored windmill, and a prison that has been home to more than a few famous names. Led by Hazel, a local lady who became homeless after her marriage ended, the tour explores Brixton’s varied history from the riots of the 1980s to its reinvention as a Transition Town with its own currency, the Brixton Pound.
In Brief
- Unseen Tours aims to provide income and opportunities for the homeless, and for formerly homeless individuals trying to get back on their feet, but it also aims to challenge perceptions of homelessness, which are often based on stereotypes.
- Unseen Tours was set up in 2010 and has been recognised with a WTM Responsible Tourism Award and an Observer Ethical Award.
