Best Walking Tours in London - London StartUp Awards 2023

The best walking tours in London according to Startup Awards? Urban Saunters!

London Startup Awards 2023 for the best walking tours in London

From the founders of The Great British Entrepreneur Awards and the Fast Growth 50 Index comes an award series championing and celebrating the best and brightest start-ups from ten nations and regions across the United Kingdom. Among these esteemed accolades, the London Startup Awards stand out as a beacon of recognition for emerging businesses in the bustling capital city. Among the winners of the 2023 London Startup Awards was Urban Saunters, clinching the esteemed title of Tourism and Leisure Startup of the Year.

This achievement marked a significant milestone for Urban Saunters, affirming our dedication to redefining tourism in London and beyond. With over 35 categories ranging from Creative Startup of the Year to Technology Services Startup of the Year, the London Startup Awards provide a platform for businesses across various industries to showcase their innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. The award earned by Urban Saunters highlights our commitment to providing immersive and authentic experiences that captivate travellers and locals alike, setting a new standard for guided tours in the city. As we delve deeper into Urban Saunters’ journey, we uncover the passion, dedication, and vision that propelled them to success at the London Startup Awards.

Urban Saunter in a nutshell – from the founders’ perspective

In 2023, Urban Saunters, founded by two passionate individuals—Slawek Kukielka and Shabby Flanders—achieved something truly special: we were awarded Tourism and Leisure Startup of the Year at the London Startup Awards. Reflecting on this achievement, we feel a mix of gratitude, pride, and a sense of accomplishment. This recognition isn’t just a trophy; it’s a testament to our hard work and dedication since day one.

Let us take you back to where it all began. Urban Saunters was born out of a shared love for London—an undying passion for its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. In April 2022, amidst the uncertainties of the pandemic, Shabby and Slawek embarked on a journey to redefine tourism in the heart of this bustling metropolis. We envisioned a company that would offer more than just guided tours; we wanted to create immersive experiences that would leave a lasting impression on our guests.

From the outset, we knew that Urban Saunters would be different. We were determined to break free from the cookie-cutter tours that inundate the market and instead offer something truly authentic and unique. Our ethos was simple yet profound: to provide bespoke walking tours that went beyond the surface, delving deep into the soul of the city and revealing its hidden gems to curious travellers.

“We deliver classic itineraries in London – bespoke, private & small group – without herding people around like cattle,” we often say, emphasizing our commitment to personalized, intimate experiences.

Urban Saunter tours are led by local guides and storytellers who share our passion for London’s history and heritage. Each guide brings their own unique perspective and expertise to the table, weaving captivating narratives that bring the city to life in ways that guidebooks and audio tours simply cannot replicate. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through historic neighbourhoods or an exploration of off-the-beaten-path landmarks, every Urban Saunters tour is a journey of discovery.

Winning the Tourism and Leisure Startup of the Year award at the London Startup Awards was a momentous milestone for Urban Saunters—a validation of our vision, values, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. It was a moment of affirmation that reminded us why we embarked on this journey in the first place and fuelled our determination to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

But our journey is far from over. As we bask in the glow of this achievement, we are already setting our sights on the future. Urban Saunters has ambitious plans to expand beyond the borders of London, bringing our unique brand of tourism to new cities and destinations. The aim is to envision a world where travellers can immerse themselves in authentic cultural experiences, forge meaningful connections with local communities, and return home with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around them.

“We were humbled and pleasantly surprised… it taught us that there really is room left for tourism done traditionally but passionately,” we reflected upon receiving the Startup Award.

Through Urban Saunters, we hope to inspire others to see the world through new eyes—to slow down, to savor the moments, and to embrace the magic of exploration. Our journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the belief that anything is possible when you follow your heart.

And as we continue to wander the streets of London, sharing its stories and secrets with our guests, we do so with renewed purpose and an unwavering commitment to creating unforgettable experiences that will leave a lasting impact for years to come.

| WALKING TOURS IN LONDON |

Keep reading Slawek interview: Best guided tours in London with Urban Saunters, your local storytellers