It's still Lesbian,Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) History Month and there are events and exhibitions in the capital's museums, galleries, bars and clubs. But there is magnificent queer history embedded in the actual fabric of London: some streets of London are soaked in LGBT tales and issues (literally, in Soho) and for those who want to see the places that have been important to the LGBT community over time, there are several guided tours organised for the rest of the month.
This weekend, on Saturday 18th February, you have the chance to take part in a guided walk from Clapham Junction to Wandsworth Common Station
"The walk visits buildings and sites around the area which were part of the growth of Wandsworth Village and district. Hear about the literary content on the journey, including Oscar Wilde's six month incarceration in Wandsworth, before leaving Clapham Junction Station for Reading Gaol. "
On Sunday 19th February Kairos in Soho’s Historical Walking Tour of Lesbian & Gay Soho will take you on
"A historical stroll http://www.kairosinsoho.org.uk/tours.asp through streets that have witnessed the secrets, trials, and triumphs of gay life for nearly a thousand years. Enjoy the vibrancy of Soho's diverse cultural history and see the richness that it offers today. "
No need to book this one, just meet next to the Admiral Duncan Pub but remember to bring £5 (All proceeds of the tour help support Kairos in Soho’s work.)
For the following weekend, on Sunday 26th February Walk Proud in Islington has organised an hour long guided tour of "some of the queerest places in the country" and the chance to exchange memories with fellow walkers. This event is linked to the Walking Proud in Islington project.
And last but not least, on Tuesday 28th February, a Southwark special:
"Southwark poet and performer John Constable conducts this free walk especially commissioned for LGBT history month. John reveals the secret history of Southwark's medieval Liberty with its cross-dressing actors and prostitutes licensed by Bishops, and performs short excerpts from The Southwark Mysteries, his own work inspired by it. This unusual guided tour explores the history of sexual identity, with particular reference to LGBT-related stories. "
Information on all guided tours are available on the LGBT website here. Some events will need to be booked in advance, some events are free.
