Slow tourists: local businesses struggle despite TV exposure

Independent businesses seen in Slow Horses have warned that rising costs could force them to close.

Tax hikes and higher rents on Aldersgate Street, the home of Slough House, have squeezed profit margins.

Gursel Kirik, who has run Gate Grill Café for 32 years, said: “This filming has helped local, small businesses’ revenues – a lot of tourists walking past recognise the buildings. But it’s a struggle.”

According to Mr Kirik, his annual business rates more than tripled from £2,500 in 2024 to £8,900 in 2026.

This jump came in April after the Government ended Covid-era relief for hospitality businesses and revalued properties.

“As a small business individual, you’ve got no chance against big companies. You’re a tiny little fish and the chains are a big whale. They swallow you,” he said.

Simone Mastronardi, the restaurant manager of Vecchio Parioli, called on the local authorities to intervene. “If they want to keep businesses alive, they should do something about it,” he said. “They shouldn’t just tax and tax and put prices up.

“We’d like to keep running it in our family but the future for this kind of business is getting tighter and tighter every day.”

These businesses’ complaints have come as the City of London Corporation seeks to establish the Square Mile as a cultural destination.

Susannah Cohen, who has led 120 Slow Horses tours since 2024, said: “You think it’s the most British TV show in the world but people come from all over. I’ve had people from China, South Korea, Taiwan, Switzerland, Norway.

“This is the City of London, so, they want people here. They want to encourage tourism because no one’s going to the office anymore.”

Islington Gazette 

Susannah Cohen, interviewed at 10am on 13 October 

07483 216766, susannah@squaremilesecrets.com

Gursel Kirik, interviewed at 11am on 14 October 

020 7253 6943 

Simone Mastronardi, interviewed at 10.30am on 15 October 

020 7253 3240