Art & Design Tour in London, United Kingdom: Palladian Architecture of London

To call Andrea Palladio influential would be something of an understatement. That said, it took the Venetian architect a couple of centuries to make it big in London, where his trademark style - white, formal, symmetrical, dubiously similar to ancient Greek & Roman palaces - flourished in the eighteenth century. This architectural style was so influential, it came to define London's architecture, as well as many other cities in Europe and North America.

On this tour we'll look at Palladio's architectural imprint in London and discuss how these buildings inform us about the city's social and cultural history.

We'll visit the Whitehall Banqueting Hall, the site of one of the first Palladian translations in London by Inigo Jones. We'll follow this by exploring the popular adoption of the architectural style through Lord Burlington at Burlington House, then explore areas such as the Treasury building, the Horse guards, and residential adaptations.

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$30

per person

for 3 hours

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Your Insider

Farah

I'm a friendly and outgoing guide, keen to pass on my knowledge of local histories. I'll make sure you have a fun time, and learn to look at the local surroundings in a new way. My tours are flexible, and can be catered to include any particular exhibitions or sights you want to see or learn more about. In my free time, I love exploring local events in London; visiting museums, galleries, and exhibitions, and finding local markets. Have any questions? Just send me a message! Full profile

4 Reviews

Cate H.

Farah's passion for Palladio and his English devotees is contagious! I will never look at plain-white, classically-influenced buildings the same way again. She is very thorough and knowledgeable, but also personable and fun to spend time with. While this is not the most exciting tour you can take... Most of the buildings are not "big sites" of London... it's quieter, but deeper, thanks to Farrah's expertise.

Israt A.

What a wonderful and eye-opening afternoon. Farah opened my eyes to the beautiful buildings of Whitehall and Green Park that I have so often admired but never understood. It was marvellous to understand the origins of the beautiful architecture we observe in London and to understand the impact of Palladio on generations of amazing architects such as Sir Christopher Wren. Farah’s story-telling is accessible and inspirational. A memorable afternoon spent with friends, thank you Farah!

Nassi

This is one of the best afternoons I have had in London. Farah's knowledge is superb and it was really fun to learn about Palladian architecture and its influence. London cannot be rivalled in terms of its architecture. I highly recommend Farah's tour, you will really enjoy the afternoon with her.

Alex B.

A great afternoon out and one of my most memorable experiences in the beautiful city of London! Farah's warm personality and infectious enthusiasm for her subject matter not only made her an engaging and knowledgable guide but also gave us all a new and deeper perspective of some of London's more famous locales, as well as introducing us to many fascinating spots that I'm sure we would have missed had we be on our own. Furthermore, even although many of us in the group were unfamiliar with the influential Palladian movement before the tour, Farah was able to bring us all up to speed on the subject in no time, which consequently made the varied and stunning London architecture around us really come alive! I couldn't recommend this tour enough - so much so that I fully intend on going on Farah's other tour the next chance I get!

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