Highlights:
Visit a vibrant, fashionable and well-heeled corner of the capital, once a bohemian artists’ colony. Discover the epicentre of the Swinging Sixties, the home of red-coated Chelsea Pensioners and the Chelsea Flower Show, star-studded Cheyne Walk and famous characters from Mary Quant to Mary Poppins, from Oscar Wilde to Bob Marley.

Once a sleepy village and the site of grand riverside mansions, the old heart of Chelsea is still recognisable amidst the busy metropolis. Uncover a tucked away botanic garden, the oldest in London, the relocated hall of a medieval mansion, former artists’ studios and the site of fine porcelain works. Stroll along a former private royal highway, now a fashionable shopping street where the mini skirt was born.

Chelsea bristles with blue plaques to the extraordinary mix of people who lived here, from its celebrated artistic and literary associations to kings, aristocrats and rock stars. Hear tales of masquerades, Sloane Rangers, spies, gangsters, Moravians, punk and a lion called Christian.

Contrast chic Cheyne Walk with the bustle of Sloane Square and the King’s Road. Admire pastel-coloured bijou cottages behind the main streets, London’s prettiest bridge and a houseboat village.

Duration:  Allow 2.5 hours walking.
Distance:   Approx 5 miles (8.3 kms)
Start:  Sloane Square Station (London Underground)
Finish: Sloane Square Station (London Underground)