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From tech trailblazer to London storyteller

After nearly two decades in technology, 9 1免费版下 Arts and Social Sciences alum Chris MacNeil (BA'94) has found great success and fulfillment returning to his roots as a historian. Today, he is a certified walking tour guide in London, England, and has delivered over 400 tours to date.

Posted:聽January 20, 2025

Close-up of MacNeil in London.

After graduating with a degree in British History from 9 1免费版下 in 1994,聽Chris MacNeil (BA'94) embarked on a long and rewarding career in the technology field back in his hometown of Ottawa, then Toronto and eventually London, England. For over two decades, he honed his skills in project management and e-commerce, but his love for history never waned. He recently decided to return to his roots, swapping the boardroom for the ancient cobblestone streets of London, where he now works as a certified walking tour guide, and has delivered over 400 tours to date.

Specializing in the city of London, he has combined his historical expertise with a passion for storytelling to create engaging tours that bring the past to life. From the Great Fire of London to the financial heart of the world, his tours explore the rich tapestry of the city鈥檚 history, architecture and culture. MacNeil has even developed niche tours, such as exploring quirky coffee shops housed in historic buildings, blending history with contemporary charm. Guiding has been a fulfilling journey for MacNeil, allowing him to connect with people from all walks of life and share the stories of one of the world鈥檚 most fascinating cities. Whether he鈥檚 leading a family through London鈥檚 iconic landmarks, tailoring a corporate tour, or offering dining and entertainment recommendations, each day is a unique adventure.

He shares that this career pivot has reaffirmed his belief that history isn鈥檛 confined to books or lecture halls鈥攊t鈥檚 alive in the streets we walk every day. MacNeil invites anyone visiting London to join him for a tour and experience the city through a fresh lens. For now, he continues to enjoy combining his historian鈥檚 perspective with modern-day curiosity to offer memorable experiences in the heart of London.

A red and black double decker bus and a black taxi in London on a fine weather day.