The Dark Walk

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Listen to the murmured conversations on your promenade

The avenues which ran around the eastern and northern edges of the gardens were always known as the Dark Walk, where no Lady’s reputation was safe.

The darkness of each avenue, created by the lofty branches overhead, was known for flirtation and secrecy.

Artificial light was not introduced here until 1764, when magistrates forced the proprietor of the Gardens, Jonathan Tyers to act against the immoral behaviour that the concealing darkness encouraged. Tyers also employed police constables to patrol the end of each walk in an attempt to keep such incidents to a minimum. Unable to watch everybody all the time, the constables could not fully deter the mischievous activity the unlit avenues were renowned for.

Launch the AR experience to cast your eye over the beautiful architecture revealed, passing high society families and would-be lovers. Listen to the murmured conversations and scandalous titters as you promenade through the Dark Walk.

How to use the filter

Find the QR code located in Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens using the map below
Scan the QR code using the camera function on your smartphone
Ensure your volume is turned up to hear atmospheric sounds, music, and stories
Click ‘Open Instagram Filter’ to launch the AR experience on Instagram
Tag @beinvauxhall if you share your photos on Instagram

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Madame Saqui

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William Henry Lane

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C.H. Simpson

Embrace your inner Victorian as C. H. Simpson bows, tips his hat, and ushers you through to the Gardens in AR.
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Explore the AR 3D model to see how the Gardens were once laid out with intricate avenues and archways, very different from today.
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The Dark Walk

Launch the AR experience to cast your eye over the beautiful architecture revealed, passing high society families and would-be lovers.
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Launch our AR experience to see the facade of the orchestra sparkle and shine, day and night.
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Balloon Mural

Try and resist joining the historical figures as they dance and fill up the street in an AR ball worth envying!
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