Magic in Modern London

A GPS-triggered treasure hunt for virtual amulets around early twentieth century London, and an audio-visual evocation of a lost historical world.

• Bartholemews beautiful 1908 map overlaid onto modern London
• Over 300 carefully selected historical images
• Readings by actors Michael Maloney and Emily Woof
• Dozens of specially composed soundscapes
• 64 exquisite virtual amulets to collect


In 1922, Edward Lovett published a book called “Magic in Modern London” that recounted his expeditions among the superstitious population of the great city.

The stories he tells vividly evoke the lost world of Britain just before and during the Great War, when the protective power of amulets gripped the public imagination.

Even before his death, Lovett’s vast collection of amulets had been dispersed and today few copies of his book remain in existence. Follow in his footsteps and answer his calls of assistance and you can help bring his work back to life.

This app invites you to rediscover sixty-four of Lovett’s finest amulets from locations across London, each relevant in one way or another to the amulet in question, the danger against which it is said to guard or the story associated with it.

Part treasure hunt, part time-travel, as you progress you will explore specially commissioned soundscapes, see carefully selected historical images, hear readings of the chapters from Lovett’s book and unlock sections of the text to read.



The app is large because of its extensive audio-visual content, so a wifi connection is required for download.

The app is intended for use in London only.

Magic in Modern London uses background GPS when you are exploring an Area of Enchantment. This can significantly decrease battery life. The app switches off 10 minutes after you leave the area.