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The London Ear

What does the London Ear hear? What is it listening for?

Join us on a two mile sonic stroll through the City of London. 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 spoken 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

Scheduled public walks

2023: Sunday 12 May, 10.50am-1.20pm
Sunday 6 October, 10.50-1.20pm

Meet: St Paul’s Tube Station. End: Near Liverpool Street station.

Suitable for: adults.

£20 per person, max 12 per tour

Booking is essential as places are limited. Ticket price includes a noisy snack.  

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. 

Private group bookings

 The London Ear is available most Sunday mornings for private groups of up to 16 friends and family. The cost is £20 per person (minimum fee £120).

We can also lead The London Ear at other times for student groups and corporates. If you are interested, we’d love to hear from you.