Take me to London

29/04/2026

Dear followers,

We’d like to let you know that the TakeMeToLondon website is now offline.

Life has taken us on different paths, though our friendship remains as strong as ever.

Jackie is continuing with her wonderful language walks.
Jill is dedicating more time to her family and guiding less.
And I (Ildi) have moved to Wales to follow my dream, focusing on sustainable tourism and guiding much less frequently in London.

You can still stay in touch with us:
Jackie’s website: https://www.languagewalks.com

Ildi’s website: www. https://www.walestrails.uk

You can also follow Ildi on Facebook: .guide

Thank you for your support over the years — it has meant so much to us.

With warm wishes,
Jackie, Jill & Ildi

25/02/2026

Dear followers,

I have some exciting news — I’ve recently moved to Wales! While I’ll still be popping back to London to guide from time to time, my focus is now very much on sharing the beauty, history, and stories of Wales — a place I completely fell in love with back in 2014.
I’ll continue posting whenever I’m in London, but I’d love you to follow my Wales page too. And why not come and visit? It’s less than a two-hour train journey to Cardiff — the perfect escape for a day trip or weekend adventure.
Join us on one of our tours and discover Wales through the eyes of an official wales blue badge tourist guide I can’t wait to welcome you!

Ildi

https://www.facebook.com/walestrails.guide/

Darran & Ildi Official Wales Blue Badge Tourist Guides.
A driver guide and a Hill and Moorland Leader .
Beer tours, foodie tours , hikes and drives . Sustainable tourism starting in Wales or London .
Tours in English, Portuguese Spanish

17/01/2026

Notting Hill Gem
Notting Hill became famous because of the film, and today there are queues just to enter the bookshop that inspired the film”s iconic book shop where William Thacker met Anna Scott.
But just across the road, there’s a hidden gem with a soul.
I love introducing clients to places like this, and today I took mine to the iconic, chef-led Books for Cooks. It’s not just a cookbook shop — from Monday to Friday you can enjoy an inexpensive, freshly cooked meal right inside.
Perfect for a break between sightseeing, with a warm, creative atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer. We even met Eric Treuille, a true inspiration for anyone who loves food, cooking… and chocolate
Everyone visits the famous bookshop — this is where I take my clients

29/08/2025

Guiding in London today!
We kicked off the morning exploring the magnificent Westminster Abbey, then took a lovely stroll through St James’s Park, where the pelicans were happily posing for photos – always a crowd favorite!
Now taking a little break with an iced matcha at Social Bite, just a short walk from Trafalgar Square.
I love stopping here — Social Bite is more than just a café. It’s a social enterprise working to end homelessness by offering jobs, training, and meals to people in need. 100% of their profits go toward this mission. Every coffee or bite you buy helps make a difference.
If you’re in the area, I highly recommend popping in – good vibes, good cause, great matcha. 🌿☕

20/08/2025

When I did my Blue Badge Guide training, I honestly didn’t think I’d enjoy guiding tours with a World War theme — but I was so wrong.
I’ve found the stories incredibly moving, and the Imperial War Museum has become what I think every museum should aspire to be. They don’t just display objects — they share the real stories of ordinary people, unsung heroes whose lives and experiences shaped history.
Today, I took a family on a tour, and it turned out to be quite emotional. One of the family members’ dads had piloted a Lancaster bomber, and by the end of the tour, he was in tears.
During the summer, the museum has volunteers you can talk to. We met a lovely woman whose mum worked with the Red Cross — she showed us her and her mother’s ration books, documents, and personal keepsakes. We also spoke with a veteran and an Irish lady whose uncle was killed during the Troubles.
I truly cannot recommend the Imperial War Museum enough. It’s powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

08/06/2025

Took my clients to Chedworth Roman Villa today — and wow, the mosaics were absolutely breathtaking!

There’s something magical about standing where Romans once lived nearly 2,000 years ago. The craftsmanship in those ancient floors is unreal — every tile tells a story.

If you’ve never been, put it on your list. Hidden in the heart of the Cotswolds, this site is a true gem of Roman Britain.

Interested in joining a future tour? Send me a message — I’d love to show you around!

31/05/2025

Exploring Wonders at the Natural History Museum, London!

Had the absolute pleasure of guiding this lovely family through one of London’s most iconic museums today! From the mighty T. rex to the dazzling Hintze Hall, the kids were wide-eyed with wonder at every turn.

We roamed through the Earth Hall, discovered creepy crawlies, and even learned how volcanoes erupt!. It’s amazing how museums can turn learning into an adventure.

Big smiles, lots of questions, and even a few dinosaur roars made this a tour to remember. Thanks for joining me on this fun-filled journey through time!

Family tours available all year round – message to book!

05/05/2025

VE Day 80 – London 2025
Today, we marked 80 years since Victory in Europe with powerful tributes across London. A grand military procession, historic flypast including the Red Arrows and Lancaster bomber, and the return of 30,000 ceramic poppies at the Tower of London reminded us of the sacrifices made.

Royal tributes, veteran gatherings, and community celebrations brought the nation together.

25/04/2025

Just visited the Fixing Our Broken Planet exhibition at the Natural History Museum — and wow, it’s a must-see!

As a tour guide, I’ve seen countless exhibitions, but this one hits differently. It’s an eye-opening journey through the challenges our planet faces — from climate change to biodiversity loss — but more importantly, it’s filled with hope, innovation, and solutions.

From futuristic food to plastic alternatives made from seaweed, every display invites you to think differently about how we live and what we can change. It’s powerful, interactive, and inspiring for all ages.

Whether you’re a curious traveler, a passionate environmentalist, or just looking for something meaningful to explore in London — don’t miss this.

22/03/2025

A powerful tribute to peace and persistence: a statue of Brian Haw, the man who spent a decade in a tent outside Parliament Square, has been unveiled in London. The 72cm bronze sculpture, created by artist Amanda Ward, now stands at the School of Historical Dress, just outside the one-mile exclusion zone set up in 2005 to silence his protest. Below his likeness are the poignant words: “Stop killing the kids.” Brian Haw’s tireless campaign for peace continues to inspire generations.