General information
| Destination |
|---|
| London, United Kingdom |
Program details
Discover London - the Rock capital of the world, on a musical voyage of adventure, crowned by its 3 Hard Rock Cafes, offering a delicious two course lunch and a private viewing of its world-class collection of memorabilia.
Re-trace the steps of the bands and icons that defined our times and learn of their camaraderie and fearless invention as they wiped clean and drew again the face of popular music.
Your small group tour is led by an expert Rock guide and includes VIP exclusive access to ‘The Vault’ – London’s only rock n’ roll museum – before it opens to the public.’
Intro: SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO?
We start our adventure at the recently launched Hard Rock Hotel London – the first in the UK, it pays tribute to its impressive roll-call of former residents such as Jimi Hendrix, Diana Ross, Bob Dylan and Buddy Holly with an incredible memorabilia collection and original artwork in every bedroom.
You will meet your expert Rock Guide in the lobby for a brief walk through some of the most iconic items such as Freddie Mercury’s Kirkwood teenage piano, Jimi Hendrix’ contracts, tapes and flamboyant cape, Eric Clapton’s jacket, one of Ozzy Osbourne’s stage outfits and incredible letters written by Buddy Holly during his stay at the hotel.
Why not peruse the Rock Shop® within the hotel - the exclusive clothing and accessory store – offering both signature pieces as well as a bit of casual cool: perfect for looking the part during your evenings out in the city.
Verse 1: GET BACK - TO A LITTLE STARDUST
Your small coach allows you to explore the quiet back streets of Mayfair not accessible to big tour buses:
see an amazing property where both Jimi Hendrix and George Frideric Handel resided, as well as the home where Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb of The Bee Gees composed and lived.
Then step out onto the street with your expert Rock Guide for a walking tour through the 60’s and 70’s.
Amidst the fine tailoring of Savile Row, transport yourself back five decades as you imagine you are joining the on-lookers at The Beatles final concert. Then discover a doorway that saw the birth of one of David Bowie’s most famous alter-egos, before hearing how some of the colourful managers of the day did their negotiating – right on the street where everyone who was anyone picked up their colourful clothes.
Verse 2: VIP ACCESS: BEHIND THAT LOCKED DOOR…
As our VIP for the day you are in for a treat as we pull up to London’s only rock n’ roll museum: The Vault belonging to Hard Rock Café London – a treasure trove featuring the most valuable pieces of music memorabilia from across the globe!
Tucked away in an old Coutts Bank, The Vault was once used to protect the Queen’s coffers.
Guests on the Hard Rock full day tour are afforded special permission to experience a private viewing of The Vault before it opens to the public.
Gaze on in wonder as one of Hard Rock’s expert Rock Masters takes your VIP group down to the basement, beyond the high security door and into a music lover’s paradise.
Verse 3: JACK FLASH, THE JESTER & CAPTAIN FANTASTIC
Cruising along the Strand look out for one of London’s most celebrated hotels, whose side street was the scene for one of the most imitated promo films of the Swinging Sixties.
Discover a former theatre location where Beatles impresario, Brian Epstein, used to run rock shows on a Sunday – learn who surprised all four Beatles 2 days after Sgt. Pepper’s release - as you say a quick hello and goodbye.
Top for trivia fans is London’s Tin Pan Alley: this short street is cram packed with incredible stories of the genesis of rock music. At one side see where The Rollin’ Stones made their first album independently, while at the other end see where a certain Reg Dwight had to keep the kettle on the go for the top music publishers.
Chorus: FEEDING THE WORLD
On June 14th, 1971, the very first Hard Rock Café in the world opened…on Old Park Lane, in London!
Known for its authentic dining, world class entertainment and proudly boasting a Mayfair neighbourhood address, Hard Rock London was the first café where the classes and Rock Glitterati mingled.
Included in your tour is a delicious 2-course Hard Rock Café lunch. Enjoy freshly prepared entrees and classic favourites like the *Legendary® Burger along with a soft drink, tea or coffee.
The exceptional cuisine is only matched by the wonderous surroundings. Next to the bar you will see the guitar that started Hard Rock’s legendary reputation for exceptional pieces of memorabilia – Eric Clapton’s red Fender Leader II guitar.
Step into ‘The Back Room’ - the decor includes a variety of Vintage and iconic items, including copies of Melody Maker circa 1971 and an original poster for the WHO, alongside a customized confession booth that forms part of the seating arrangement. The piece de resistance, however, is a door from the Beatles’ Apple Studios.
Middle Eight: ‘LIFE HAD JUST BEGUN’
The afternoon section of our musical adventure is a combination of poignant reflection, incredible fun and an exercise in discovering who has what it takes to join our ‘School of Rock’!
Harry Nilsson’s former flat is the sad setting for the exit of two of music’s most beloved personalities: Cass Eliot of the celebrated Mamas and Papas and the inimitable Keith Moon – known for his unique style and is eccentric, often self-destructive behaviour.
At Garden Lodge see the former home of Queen legend – Freddie Mercury, known for his flamboyant stage style and his four-octave vocal range – while discovering the ongoing love story that lasted for his whole life.
Well rock fans you knew it was coming… it’s trivia time! Life-long fans will have the opportunity to test if they have what it takes to join the ‘School of Rock’ with questions by Rita Gilligan – Hard Rock’s original Rock n’ Roll waitress, international ambassador and MBE. Make sure you are keeping your eyes and ears open!
Learn of the ’27 Club’ – the astounding story that links the passing of some of popular music’s most treasured talents from American Blues Legend Robert Johnson through to Amy Winehouse.
No rock tour of London would be complete without a visit to the absolute Jewel in its Crown, and the world’s most famous pedestrian crossing! Having recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary and a return to the no.1 spot, The Beatles ‘Abbey Road’ has stood the test of time, representing their last recording at the world-famous recording studios in the leafy suburb of St. John’s Wood. Get in step as you take that legendary walk across the crossing re-creating one of the most famous album covers of all time.
P.S. Did you know Paul McCartney has a home that isn’t a long and winding road away?
Outro: ‘HARD ROCK CAFÉ PICCADILLY’
Combining the eclectic vibe of Piccadilly Circus with the rock and roll lifestyle of the Hard Rock brand, Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus is the perfect conclusion to our virtual biopic through the icons of rock.
Walk in and be wowed by the walls adorned with authentic, one-of-a-kind memorabilia from decades of music history, featuring items from British music legends and international stars alike.
The emphasis is more on contemporary artists, with pieces from Freddie Mercury, David Bowie and George Michael sitting alongside outfits worn by the likes of Shakira, Nicki Minaj and Ellie Goulding. There is also a guitar once played by Ed Sheeran and a telephone box that once appeared in a One Direction video.
Your expert Rock Guide will introduce some of the most exceptional pieces before leaving you to explore the largest Rock Shop in the world at your leisure!
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