I can deliver an amazing insight into the capital's rich culture and history. I have the "knowledge of London" at my fingertips. London has a fantastic backstory; it contains all the fascinating elements of an intriguing capital city, and its timeline has evolved over two thousand years of invasion, riot, disaster, and celebration.
I've lived and worked in London all of my life. I spent my formative years growing up in the mid-sixties and was privileged to have witnessed London during the vibrant 'Swinging Sixties' at first hand. Its music, fashion, and culture went on to impact my career choices, which have influenced the themes of many of my tours, especially music. I have a background in fashion, tailoring and design; I attended and graduated at the London College of Fashion. Recently I celebrated 45 years as a licensed London Cabbie and have the professional qualification of being a Tour Guide from the prestigious Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers.
The London taxi has a heritage that dates back to 1654 in an ordinance by Oliver Cromwell, called 'The Regulation of Hackney Coachman in London'. These taxis were literally horse powered unlike the taxi that I drive which is a traditional iconic London black taxi which was built to be the perfect 'work horse' for London's complex and cobbled streets, lanes, and sightseeing.
I have an ideal work-life balance that allows me to harness my career as a Licensed London Cabbie, regarded worldwide as the gold standard for taxi drivers and, of course, tour guiding. I also cherish being a family man and enjoy interacting with my children and grandchildren. I enjoy all types of music, theatre, and history.
London's dynamic and diverse background is referenced in its architecture, and cultural and social heritage. Every one of London's streets has a story to tell. I ensure every tour is full of interesting and quirky facts presented in an engaging and relaxed way with a hint of humour and sensitivity.
So, whether you're visiting London for the first time or are a serial visitor, I can customise your tour to include any additional requirements you may have and also many hidden gems. There will be plenty of opportunities to get out of the taxi, and take photos along the way whilst we walk, talk and explore the city.
A Recent Review of this guide
Read ReviewsDavid was fun to have as a guide down memory lane. He showed us many sites where the historical plaques explained who and what had been at that site. David enhanced the tour with photos of the places back in the day when the Beatles ranked supreme. It was fun to get back into the car and hear the music from that era. David also went the extra mile, making restaurant suggestions and even a reservation, which he altered immediately based on our desires. He was always vigilant about our safety. Use him!
Stuart Levy
Credentials
Licensed London Taxi Driver since 1978 after completing The Knowledge of London.
Qualified London Taxi Guide, facilitated by The Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers.
Member of English Heritage.
Graduate of the London College of Fashion and Design.
Restrictions
Please note that there are guiding restrictions which do not allow me to guide inside the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral and the Palace of Westminster.
