Meet Simon:

I'm Simon, a multilingual Artivist tour guide who came to Hackney for a week in 2009 and never looked back. Since then I've been exploring the area and its quirky and alternative culture and sharing it with other curious explorers in what I call carbon-free 'walking conversations'. Nobody wants to be lectured, right?

You can travel the world here without even leaving the borough. From radical history, to contemporary activism and world class street art to the Hackney Changemakers who are shaping the future – there are new and exciting things to discover here every day. I really think travel is a state of mind and if we can be more excited about our own back yard, we'll need to travel less but also be happier every day?

My favourite moment is when a local says they now see their doorstep in a different way. I weave in my art and research projects too and no one walk is the same. I'm also involved with volunteering and community projects so I can give you that really in-depth insight that only comes from someone who loves where they live and is deeply involved with it.

So let's get out there and be fully in the world? There's so much good stuff out there to explore, to connect with, to appreciate and share!

Created London's first women's history running tour 2015

Formulated Hackney's (London's?) first alternative statue tour 2020

Named an 'East London Innovator'

Commended for World Travel Market 'Responsible Tourism Awards'