Following the success of last year’s popular walking tour of Regent’s Canal, we have asked Lettie McKie to guide us along another section of this historic waterway, this time from Regent’s Park to King’s Cross.
Join SAVE and Lettie as we explore the rich history and compelling architecture along the route, with a focus on current planning battles and examples of adaptive reuse.
The story of London's Regent's Canal, built between 1812 and 1820, offers a fascinating glimpse into the industrial infrastructure of Georgian London during the early 19th century. Initially conceived as a speculative entrepreneurial venture, it evolved into a bustling commercial waterway during the Victorian era, only to succumb to the broader industrial downturn of the 20th century.
Presently, thanks to developer-led revitalisation efforts, the canal has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant urban thoroughfare once more, albeit one predominantly frequented by leisure seekers and gentrifiers. Walking along its banks affords us a pertinent opportunity to contemplate the city's evolving landscape in all its richness.
This second SAVE canal excursion will focus on its western end, starting in Regent’s Park itself at London Zoo. The walk will encompass a variety of architectural marvels and historical landmarks, ranging from elegant canal-side villas and Georgian townhouses to the awe-inspiring Snowden Aviary, before leaving the park and passing through the magnificently restored industrial heritage of King’s Cross. The tour will conclude opposite The London Canal Museum near the Western end of the Islington Tunnel, which is a short walk from Angel Tube station.
Lettie Mckie is a tour guide, and museum educator. She has an MA in architectural history from UCL’s The Bartlett School of Architecture and currently works as adult programme manager for the National Portrait Gallery. Her passion lies in repurposing historical buildings across different styles and eras, especially in the face of the climate crisis. Lettie previously worked at SAVE and the Sir John Soane’s Museum, and has volunteered for the 20th Century Society.
This walk is suitable for those with a basic level of fitness as the route is approximately 2 miles long. The towpath is step free but please note there are some steep incline sections at locks, and it can be very busy with runners and cyclists.
