Monarchy & Empire in South Kensington (the Great Exhibition Road Festival) walk

This short walk explores the history and politics behind the development of South Kensington through its extraordinary architecture. It's part of the Great Exhibition Road Festival, a free weekend celebration of science and the arts.

The walk is led by Shepherd's Bush resident and guide, Joanna Oyediran.

Starting with the Victoria & Albert Museum, you'll discover some of the buildings created for the UK's first arts and sciences quarter. Together we'll decode their symbols and learn how they were designed to assert the power of Western ideas and technology, as well as the growing power of the British Empire and its monarchy.

You'll also hear about a dramatic act of anti-imperial resistance that took place in the heart of South Kensington.

This walk is specially organized for local residents. You'll be able to get some free cold drinks and snacks after the walk at Imperial College.

You can also join a walk later at 3pm and 4.30pm on either Saturday or Sunday. The later walks will be open to the general public, not just local residents. For these walks you don't need to book