Introducing our London Experts

Chris was the first London Expert at The View from The Shard and was where it all began, having been a tour guide in London and the South-East for a number of years previously. He has a background in humanities and is most interested in the quirky and unusual side of London that you can’t just read in any old guidebook. He is also an actor, writer and comedian, and guests often comment on how he makes learning about history fun. He regularly appears as a commentator on the BBC to discuss everything from regular London life to cultural events and hosts a regular radio talk show covering South London. Having lived in Tooting for over 20 years he will wax lyrical about how it is the best part of the city – we recommend ignoring this bit.

Also known as “the man wearing the silly hat”, Zia can tell you as many bad puns as he can tell you facts about London. With a background in improv comedy, Zia is known for his fun, energetic performances talking about everything from James Bond filming locations to the bus that jumped the gap on Tower Bridge! Zia’s favourite places to visit in London include Battersea Power Station, The London Transport Museum, the Lego section of Hamleys Toy store and his auntie’s house in Croydon for tea and Shepherd’s Pie. Zia is also known for his comedy sketches on social media and looks forward to welcoming his large group of followers to the Shard. All 4 of them.

Howard joined the London Expert team in 2023, previously having worked as a London driver tour guide. If you see him in the galleries, please ask him about football and which historic pubs to visit. He might also point out a few buildings! He recommends visitors to the city take a walk around Aldwych and Fleet Street. His top spots to look out for are: Bush House, the old home of BBC World Service radio. Somerset House, a former royal palace now used as a university and arts venue. The Temple Bar monument, with it’s intricate metal reliefs. The Olde Cheshire Cheese pub, where Johnson and Dickens drank. The heritage sundial on the corner of Fleet Street and Bouverie Street. The newspaper mural in Magpie Alley.

Michael is a great storyteller who has a seemingly inexhaustible fund of stories to draw upon, often tending toward the gruesome, grisly, and humorous. Many guests describe him as charming, charismatic and funny. He previously worked as a Crane Driver and Tour Guide, so can point out interesting points on The Shard’s skyline as well as down below. Michael says that his job as London Expert is the best job in the world, and it is clear to see that in the way he creates fun and enjoyment for our guests. Ask Michael about the Tower of London and expect some lively sword thrashing re-enactments!

George is a football fanatic with a love of London’s surprisingly numerous animal anecdotes. He fell in love with this city during the pandemic, when he would take his daily permitted walks through the deserted historic streets of central London. Being the youngest London Expert, George is often referred to by guests as The Shard’s “Child Prodigy” as he has an extensive knowledge of London, no matter his age! As a Camden resident, George is only a short walk from Hampstead Heath which is his favourite London spot. George recommends watching the sun from the south side of the heath, on Parliament Hill, as a wonderful way to spend a summer evening with friends.