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Egypt in London Walking Tour
One-day course
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
If you look anywhere around London, you will spot echoes of ancient Egypt. Some are obvious – obelisks in graveyards, imposing Victorian monuments – and some are less so, like hidden sphinxes on doorways or stylised details nestled amongst art deco facades. But in every case, there is a story behind Egypt’s presence.
For over three hundred years, ancient Egypt has inspired London’s cityscape, for varied and fascinating reasons. From Cleopatra’s needle—an ancient obelisk erected on the Thames embankment as a symbol of Victorian imperial might—to the staircase of Harrods department store, and from the Albert Monument to the Serpentine, each moment reveals the fascinating ways Britain has and continues to engage with ancient Egypt.
This walking tour of London, beginning at Embankment and ending in South Kensington, will chart these many stories and explore the ways ancient Egypt remains alive in London today. It will cover everything from Cleopatra’s needle to the Royal Albert Hall – and even end with some hidden ancient Egyptian moments within V&A South Kensington itself.
Suitable for participants aged 18 or over.
Suitable for participants aged 18 or over.
Walking Tour Leader
Dr Benjamin Hinson
Dr Benjamin Hinson is an Egyptologist and curator. He has lectured and published widely on both ancient Egypt, and its Western reception across the 18th – 21st centuries. He is the curator of the exhibitions Visions of Ancient Egypt and Making Egypt which explores the enduring power of ancient Egypt’s creativity (Young V&A)
Walking tours excellent, a great way to learn - seeing and absorbing knowledge whilst walking and interacting with fellow learners- more please! Previous V&A Academy Walking Tour Attendee
Course overview
Echoes of ancient Egypt are all around us, hidden in plain sight. From monumental obelisks to architectural details, this walking tour will reveal the many ways London’s architecture is indebted to ancient Egypt.
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Being up close with treasured objects from the V&A's collections brings your learning to life. Get precious time with incredible exemplars, as well as with our expert tutors and your fellow learners.
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One-day course: Egypt in London Walking Tour
6 February 2026
£70.00
Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)
Related events
Header image: Painted photograph of an E. J. Poynter dado tile design for the Grill Room, South Kensington Museum: 1 of 11 classical female figure subjects (Rhodopis). 1868-1885. ©Victoria and Albert Museum, London