with Mike Keene

I'm a regular family man. My wife Linda and I have boy/girl twins, aged eleven (2007) plus two cats Dennis and Oliver who rule the roost! We live in the north eastern suburbs of the city. Most of my free time is taken up by the family. I sometimes take the twins camping or go for walks in nearby Epping Forest. I like to do the family cooking—we are all vegetarians, except for Oliver and Dennis ...who like fish!

  At home, to relax I listen to music, mostly classical and opera (much to the horror of the children) but also modern jazz. I love Argentine tango! One day I will attempt the dance.

  I've a good sense of humour, am easy-going and like chatting to people. Linda says “especially when you’ve had too much wine”....  Most of my customers are from the US, and I can honestly say all have been kind, warm and friendly—a pleasure to be with. So there’s a kinda affinity to you guys! Having said that, over the years I’ve met people from all over the world and conclude that we’re all pretty much the same, fundamentally decent folks, which is why I love guiding!

Prior to becoming a guide I worked at Westminster Abbey for around 12 years, so that’s a place I’m very fond of and my specialist subject. I undertook the gruelling Blue Badge tourist guide course and graduated in 1987. I began by freelance guiding but in 1998 decided to concentrate on doing tours in London, showing small groups around on foot and using public transport. From 2006 I dropped the small group tours to take private engagements, but continuing the same walking and public transport format, which I think is the best way to explore London!