Explore the City of London soundscape
What does the London Ear hear? What is it listening for?
Join us on a two mile stroll through the City of London soundscape. From church bells to road crossing beeps, we’ll turn an inquisitive ear to the noises that control, affect and define us. We’ll tune into sounds of the past, like the birdsong that triggered a bucolic hallucination and the metallic rasp that inspired a street name. And we’ll investigate how London’s soundscape is changing today as we echolocate through back alleys and round skyscrapers.
The London Ear is led by Rosie Oliver. A keen London listener, Rosie divides her time between leading Dotmaker walks and producing podcasts and audio features. Listen to Rosie introduce the Sunday version of the walk.
What to expect
The London Ear guided walk blends real-time listening with stories about sounds from the City’s past and insights into how London might sound in the future. The walk contains stories, insights and surprises for those whose ear isn’t technically trained alongside the more musically minded. Tour goers will be guided to refine their ear for the City and pay attention to what they usually filter out.
What a wonderful revelation! Thought-provoking, informative and so much fun. London will never sound the same again… — Joanna, London
Just incredible. Walking round the City of London learning about the history of the area through sounds – from stock exchange to poetry to bells. Really rich and enjoyable. — Rebecca, Clapton
An amazing tour … I cannot recommend [it] more highly. — Crispin, Switzerland
Private group bookings
The London Ear is available on Sunday mornings throughout the year to private groups of friends and family.
We also offer it on weekdays and Sundays for student groups and corporates. It has proved particularly popular with groups with an interest in soundscapes, music, non-verbal communication, and London history.
If you are interested, we’d love to hear from you.
Scheduled public walks
Our scheduled walks programme ended in October 2024.
Featured on BBC Radio
Leader of The London Ear Rosie Oliver’s recording of St Paul’s Cathedral bells Chiming During the Pandemic was shortlisted for Sound of the Year 2020, and played on BBC Radio 3’s Late Junction show. Her London Ear inspired piece London A to G was featured on BBC Radio Ulster’s former Soundscapes show.