Exploring Syrian Heritage in London: Stories of Art, Food & Tradition

Join us on a journey into the world of Syrian heritage without leaving London on this immersive cultural walking tour led by Nadia, a London-based guide with deep personal ties to Damascus.

Begin your tour in the stunning Arab Hall of Leighton House, inspired by 19th-century Damascus interiors. Admire original hand-painted tiles, intricate Islamic architecture, and a central courtyard fountain as you learn how artists, travellers, and empires shaped this space. Hear about Nadia’s grandmother and life in Damascus, adding a personal, living layer to the historic setting.

After all the architectural beauty, enjoy a short tea break with maramia (sage) tea, a cherished Levantine remedy wrapped in centuries-old legends. Learn about its sacred role in regional homes and how it links faith, folklore, and healing.

Next, head to a bakery where you’ll see how manoushes, a traditional Levantine flatbread, is made. Enjoy fresh manoushe topped with za’atar or cheese, just like Nadia’s childhood breakfasts in Damascus. Learn the etymology of this beloved dish and its thousand-year-old history as a staple across Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine.

End your experience at a vibrant café where you’ll watch the making of booza, a stretchy Arabic ice cream that dates back to the 15th century. As you enjoy your dessert, hear stories of Saidnaya Monastery and Nadia’s family memories in 1950s Damascus.

This final stop blends the past and present, sacred and everyday, in one final sweet moment.