The best way to see London is with someone who knows the city. And when I say "know" I don't mean Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and all that jazz. I mean someone who can lead you to the hidden corners of the East End art scene; someone who can show you where in Mayfair to find the hottest modern furniture, and guide you through the Bangladesh markets of Brick Lane. I recently discovered a new company that offers dozens of tours for the discerning design mavens, art lovers, and fashionistas in town. Known as Urban Gentry, the company provides really interesting looks at London for style savvy visitors who have already been there, and done that.

Groups are generally limited to four people to keep the feel friendly, and curtail the look of a big tour group. Experts like Gabriella, a fashion writer, Simon, a trend forecaster, and Yoko, a graphic designer, lead sophisticated, curious groups on tours with names like "East End Hip", "Sartorial Spy: Men," and "Market Fresh."

Three and a half hour outings start at 159 pounds, and many begin at a local landmark or hotel of your choice, like Le Méridien Piccadilly, one of the most fashionable accommodations in town. You'll surely impress them.