A gentle walk in and around Kings Cross St Pancras exploring the art and architecture of this rapidly changing area.
This is a walk in and around Kings Cross St Pancras exploring the art and architecture of this rapidly changing area. It has seen one of the most dramatic urban redevelopments anywhere in Europe. Until just over ten years ago the stations were neglected, and the adjacent land was a scruffy wasteland full of disused railway buildings, gasworks, noisy industry, off-beat nightclubs and a notorious red-light district.
Since the arrival of Eurostar, the whole area has experienced an amazing renaissance. The two spectacularly restored railway stations and hotels include many original features and a range of newly commissioned public artworks. Unusually for London, the redevelopment was carefully planned to satisfy the demands for residential, commercial, entertainment, education, retail and hospitality. Outside the stations there are old and new buildings, public art, green spaces and the delightful backdrop of the Regent’s Canal.
Starting from outside Kings Cross station, the walk is at a gentle pace and lasts about two hours.
How to book this event:
Booking for this event opens in March for members of the Arts Society Burghley
THE ARTS SOCIETY ACCREDITED LECTURER
Mr Ian Swankie
A Londoner with a passion for art and architecture, Ian is an official guide at Tate Modern, Tate Britain, Guildhall Art Gallery and St Paul’s Cathedral, and gives tours around each venue. He is also a qualified and active freelance London guide and leads regular tours for various corporations and organisations. Since 2012 he has led a popular weekly independent art lecture group in his home town of Richmond in West London. He is a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Art Scholars, one of the City livery companies.