Introducing our London Experts

YOUR GUIDE TO SPRING IN THE CITY

As Winter loosens its grip and Spring sweeps into London, the city bursts back to life. Mornings grow brighter, parks begin to bloom, and there’s a renewed buzz in the air as the capital shakes off the cold and welcomes a new season of discovery.

Our London Experts are ready to help you make the most of it. From secret gardens and blossom-filled parks to lively markets, riverside strolls and hidden corners of the city you might otherwise miss, they’ll guide you through the sights, stories and surprises that make London so special.

Whether you’re chasing the first cherry blossoms, enjoying a sunny wander along the Thames, or uncovering centuries of fascinating history tucked into the streets below, our experts have plenty of tips and tales to spark your curiosity.

Spring is when London truly wakes up so let our London Experts point you towards the very best the city has to offer.

Chris

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.

Zia

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

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.

George

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.