This walk is conceived and planned by Richard Eastham of Feria Urbanism for the Academy of Urbanism 2025 Summer of Walking Programme.
The walk is inspired by references to specific places in song lyrics by Pet Shop Boys. A most enduring of creative partnerships, Pet Shop Boys career now spans more than four decades making them the most successful duo in British pop music history. Their songs often mention specific places in London, and this walk connects several of these locations, creating a trail of musical memories that reveal different experiences of city life. The walk does not include locations that have been important to Pet Shop Boys recording or performing career, instead focusing on London references in their song lyrics.
This is a walk for urbanists, economists, geographers, and historians. It allows for investigations into politics as well as urban and cultural policy. It is a walk for songwriters, for storytellers and for fans of Pet Shop Boys.
Click on the image to download an exclusive digital booklet containing song lyrics, context, commentary, maps, and photos. All songs referenced in the booklet can be found in the playlist below.
