In this series of interviews we ask participants to give their feedback on Unreal City’s Night Walk, an immersive night walk through the slaughter grounds of Smithfield and alleys of Clerkenwell exploring how, over two thousand years, London went from darkness into light, with torch-lit performances in darkened churchyards and courts, and wine.
Unreal City Audio is a London-based company specializing in immersive historical tours that bring the city’s rich past to life. Founded by historian and broadcaster Dr. Matthew Green, the company offers a range of guided experiences, including the popular Coffeehouse Tour and Medieval Wine Tour. These tours are designed to provide participants with a vivid and engaging exploration of London’s history, often featuring actors and musicians to enhance the storytelling experience.
- Dans le noir? | What do diners think of the pitch-dark restaurant?
The Coffeehouse Tour, for instance, delves into the emergence of coffeehouses in 17th-century London and their role in shaping modern society. Participants visit the sites of Europe’s oldest coffeehouses, learning about their historical significance and enjoying period-authentic coffee. Similarly, the Medieval Wine Tour offers a journey through late medieval London, complete with tastings of historically accurate wines and anecdotes about the city’s past.
In addition to its public walking tours, Unreal City Audio has also collaborated with institutions and media organizations to produce bespoke historical experiences. These include partnerships with museums, universities, and broadcasters such as the BBC, where founder Dr. Matthew Green has appeared to discuss topics related to urban history and the hidden stories of London. Through these collaborations, Unreal City Audio has extended its reach beyond in-person tours, offering digital and audio content that blends academic research with theatrical flair—bringing the city’s forgotten voices and vibrant past to new audiences.