Historic City of London Walking Tour & St Paul’s Cathedral Experience
What to Expect
Step back in time and explore the rich history of the City of London, where ancient ruins meet modern skyscrapers, and stories of Romans, merchants, and monarchs come to life. This immersive one-hour guided walking tour will introduce you to the heart of London’s financial district, uncovering hidden gems, architectural wonders, and centuries-old landmarks.
Following the walk, you’ll enjoy priority entry to St Paul’s Cathedral at 1:30 PM, where you can explore its magnificent interior at your own pace, discovering its breathtaking dome, crypt, and iconic galleries.
Highlights of the Tour
🏛️ The City of London Walking Tour (12:30 - 1:30 PM)
✔ Introduction to the City – Start at St Paul’s Underground Station
Your tour begins with a fascinating introduction to the City of London—an area that dates back nearly 2,000 years to Roman times. Learn how this historic district has evolved into a global financial powerhouse while still preserving its medieval guilds, Roman remains, and historic institutions.
✔ Goldsmiths & The City’s Guilds
Discover the ancient trade guilds that shaped London’s commercial success. From goldsmiths to ironmongers, these guilds controlled medieval trade, set quality standards, and amassed immense influence over the city’s development.
✔ Noble Street – Roman Remains & City Walls
Travel back to Roman Londinium as you stand before the remains of the City Walls, once a vital defense against invaders. Your guide will reveal the hidden history of how the Romans built, ruled, and transformed this area into a thriving hub of commerce.
✔ Wood Street – A Blend of Old & New
As we continue through Wood Street, you’ll witness the remarkable contrast between the modern glass skyscrapers of the financial district and the historic narrow alleyways and medieval street names that preserve echoes of the past.
✔ Guildhall – The Heart of London’s Governance
Marvel at the stunning Guildhall, an architectural masterpiece and home to the City of London Corporation for over 800 years. Discover its connections to royalty, historic trials, and even Gladiator-style combat in medieval times.
✔ Ironmongers’ Lane – The Thomas Becket Connection
Step onto Ironmongers’ Lane, where you’ll hear about Thomas Becket, the famous Archbishop of Canterbury whose murder in 1170 shocked the nation and forever changed the balance of church and state in England.
✔ Bank of England, Royal Exchange & Mansion House
Stand in the centre of the financial district, where history meets high finance. See the Bank of England, the "Old Lady of Threadneedle Street," and hear stories of gold vaults, financial crises, and daring heists. Across the street, admire the Royal Exchange, a stunning 16th-century trading centre, and Mansion House, the official residence of London’s Lord Mayor.
✔ Walbrook Church & Cannon Street
Pause at St Stephen Walbrook, a church designed by Sir Christopher Wren, whose innovative architecture later influenced the design of St Paul’s Cathedral. Nearby, Cannon Street reveals stories of London’s ever-changing cityscape.
✔ The Firefighters’ Memorial – The Blitz & Rebuilding London
Learn about London’s resilience during World War II as we visit the Firefighters’ Memorial, a moving tribute to the brave men and women who risked their lives during the Blitz. Hear how St Paul’s Cathedral miraculously survived bombings, standing as a symbol of hope and endurance.
✔ St Paul’s Cross – A Historic Gathering Place
We end our walk at St Paul’s Cross, once the site of public announcements, fiery sermons, and political protests throughout the centuries. Standing in its shadow, we prepare to step inside the awe-inspiring St Paul’s Cathedral.
🏰 Inside St Paul’s Cathedral (1:30 - 3:00 PM)
Now it’s time to explore one of London’s most iconic landmarks—St Paul’s Cathedral. With your entry ticket, take in its magnificent beauty at your own pace. Highlights include:
✔ The Dome & Whispering Gallery – Climb up to enjoy breathtaking views and experience the famous whispering acoustics.
✔ The Grand Nave – Walk beneath the cathedral’s towering arches and admire its intricate ceiling artwork.
✔ The Crypt – Discover the final resting places of famous figures like Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
✔ Oculus: An Eye into St Paul’s – A unique film experience showcasing the cathedral’s rich history.
✔ The Golden Gallery – Ascend for a panoramic 360-degree view of London’s skyline.
Highlights
Meeting Points
Adult £75.00
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