City of London Historical Tour

Discover the ancient City of London’s rich history, from Celtic origins to the Great Fire. Uncover legends, defiance, and the rise of a world empire.

Duration: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • St Alphage Garden with ruins of St Alphage Church - We begin our journey in the Salters garden where the history of many peoples converge from Roman to Norman.
  • Roman city wall - The oldest part of the wall is this Fort.
  • St. Giles Cripplegate - One of the oldest mediaeval churches in the City since Norman time that was once the site of older Saxon Church.
  • Salter’s Hall Garden - The Roman wall is the physical structure that helped fortify the City of London from outside influence ever since the Romans built it.
    We also delve into the Celtic people. The indigenous people of these lands and the ones who made it necessary for the Romans to fortify Londinium with the wall!

Having set the scene we look to the Salter’s Hall to delve into the history of London’s history of Trade, Governance, and Sacrifice through the years. The Salter’s Hall being ranked 9th among the 12 most important Livery companies (formerly known as Guilds).

  • Brewers’ Hall - The livery company that set the standard for booze!
  • St Mary Aldermanbury Garden - The ruins of this ancient church derives its name from the ancient court or bery of the aldermen, which is now held at the Guildhall. The garden today hosts memorials to a Shakespeare and two legends of two different Livery companies.
  • City of London - The municipal governing body of the City of London and the historic centre of London.
  • Guildhall - The town hall of the City of London has been on its current site since at least the 13th century. We take a look at it’s history and mythology since Greek through to Roman, Saxon and Norman influences.
  • St. Lawrence Jewry - The official church of the City of London Corporation remembers the saint the saint who helped Christianity to flourish with a sacrifice that was unforgettably cruel.
  • Guildhall Art Gallery - Location of the Roman Amphitheatre
  • St. Margaret Lothbury Church - This Church represents two of the Wards of the City of London and we look at how livery companies came by their naming as ‘Worshipful’ companies.
  • The Royal Exchange - Built by a legend for adventurers to meet. These men went onto shape the new world.
    We also find out about what the the golden grasshopper is doing on top of it!
  • Mansion House of City of London - At the head of govenance is The Lord Mayor of the City of London. In addition he is an international ambassador for the UK’s financial and professional services sector. This is his home.
  • London Troops War Memorial - Inside a circle of 12 dragon (lamposts) representing the 12 great livery companies we highlight some of the notable figures remembered around this area and then we conclude, returning to the story of Minotaur.
  • Bank of England - We take at look at this most influential, traditional but still very forward looking institution. The Golden statue on top tells an interesting story.
What's Included
  • Unique history of the City of London
  • Ancient history and mythology
  • PDF Overview of Tour
Additional Information

Discover the origin story of the ancient City of London, its distinction from Westminster, and why it became the envy of kings.

Through the legends and diverse peoples, we trace the city’s unique history and influence, from Celtic times to the Romans, Saxons, Vikings, and Normans.

We delve into how this square mile defied royal authority, playing a crucial role in shaping England’s democracy and laws, including the Magna Carta. Remarkably, it was the birthplace of a corporation that launched an unparalleled world empire.

Our tour concludes at the end of the turbulent 17th century, marked by a great fire, plague, and revolution. Despite these challenges, the city, symbolized by a new emblem, the dragon, rose like a phoenix, ultimately securing its longstanding rights and privileges.

  • There is a wealth of information to absorb,
  • Your attention is required, and in return, you will receive my passion.
  • Photos are welcome but should be taken discreetly.

    Not your typical tours.
Location
Barbie Green
London Wall Place
Meet outside Barbie Green restaurant next to the Ruins. You will recognize me by my long hair and beard
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Select Date and Tickets
up to 8 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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