Explore 2,000 years of history in 2.5 hours on a City of London walking tour. Discover hidden alleys, iconic landmarks, and fascinating stories.
Explore 2,000 years of history in 2.5 hours on a City of London walking tour. Discover hidden alleys, iconic landmarks, and fascinating stories.
- St. Clement Danes Church - Constructed by the renowned architect Christopher Wren in the late 17th century, this modest church now serves as the official place of worship for the Royal Air Force. Visitors can discover why the RAF chose this church and observe the unaltered damage it sustained during World War II bombing campaigns.
- **Royal Courts…
- St. Clement Danes Church - Constructed by the renowned architect Christopher Wren in the late 17th century, this modest church now serves as the official place of worship for the Royal Air Force. Visitors can discover why the RAF chose this church and observe the unaltered damage it sustained during World War II bombing campaigns.
- Royal Courts of Justice - Officially opened by Queen Victoria in 1882, the Royal Courts of Justice functions as the High Court and Court of Appeal for England and Wales. Designed in a stunning Neo-gothic style by architect George Edward Street, the building resembles a medieval palace and contains over two dozen courtrooms.
Continuously in use since the Victorian era, the Royal Courts of Justice remains a crucial institution in the UK’s legal framework, blending historical importance with ongoing judicial operations.
- Temple Bar - Did you know there is a 2,000-year-old city within our city? This marker indicates the boundary lines into the fiscal and governmental district of the City of London. The marker seen today has been here since the 1800s, but this western boundary of the City of London has been clearly marked throughout the centuries. It is here that the King must request permission to enter the city (yes, really) and marks the end of the monarch’s and Mayor of London’s jurisdiction. Here, we will enter the City together by walking along the ancient Roman road of Fleet Street.
- Fleet Street - Walk down one of the UK’s most famous streets, known for its association with journalists and Sweeney Todd.
- Dr. Johnson’s House - Step into a quiet courtyard, away from the city’s hustle, to explore a fine Georgian townhouse dating from the 18th century. This charming building was once home to Dr. Samuel Johnson, credited with writing the first comprehensive English dictionary.
It was here that the dictionary was written, and there is a curious statue in the courtyard commemorating not just Johnson’s dictionary but also his feline friend who helped create it! We will show you this hidden statue, a highlight for many of our visitors.
- Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese - One of London’s oldest, best-known, and family-friendly pubs, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese has hosted some of the biggest names in London’s history: Dickens, Conan Doyle, and P.G. Wodehouse, to name a few.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is more than just a pub; it is a piece of London’s history, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the ambiance that has attracted writers, journalists, and locals for centuries.
- St Bride’s Church - St. Bride’s Church is an iconic church with a rich history dating back to the 6th century. Often referred to as the “Journalists’ Church,” it has long been associated with the nearby newspaper and printing industry. The current structure, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, was completed in 1675 after the Great Fire of London.
Notable for its distinctive tiered spire, which is said to have inspired the design of traditional tiered wedding cakes, St. Bride’s is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Today, St. Bride’s remains an active place of worship and a significant landmark, celebrating its deep connections to London’s cultural and historical heritage.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral - One of the world’s most famous churches, St. Paul’s Cathedral is architect Christopher Wren’s masterpiece. Completed in the early 1700s, it has been the site of many significant events, including the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill and the wedding of Prince Charles (now King Charles III) and Lady Diana Spencer.
The interior features exquisite mosaics, impressive arches, and the Whispering Gallery, famous for its unique acoustics. As both a vibrant place of worship and a major tourist attraction, St. Paul’s Cathedral remains a symbol of resilience and continuity, deeply woven into the fabric of London’s history.
We will provide the best views of the building, so get your cameras ready!
- St. Mary-le-Bow - Another of Wren’s great churches, completed in 1680 after the Great Fire of London, it features a striking Baroque style and a prominent steeple. The church is famously associated with the “Bow Bells,” whose sound traditionally defined true Cockneys—those born within earshot of the bells.
This stop will also have you walking along Cheapside - the historic site of London’s medieval marketplace, which lends its name to the various roads throughout the area.
- Royal Exchange Building London - The Royal Exchange is a historic and architectural landmark established in the 16th century under the authority of Queen Elizabeth I as a center for commerce.
The current building, designed by Sir William Tite and opened in 1844, showcases a striking neoclassical style with a grand portico and Corinthian columns. Originally a hub for merchants and traders, it now houses luxury shops, restaurants, and offices, blending historic grandeur with modern commerce.
The Royal Exchange remains a symbol of London’s rich commercial heritage and its continuous evolution as a global financial center.
- Mansion House of City of London - The official residence of the Lord Mayor of London, Mansion House was built between 1739 and 1752 by architect George Dance the Elder. It is a magnificent example of Georgian architecture, featuring a grand facade adorned with Corinthian columns.
Beyond its role as the Lord Mayor’s residence, Mansion House serves as a venue for official functions, ceremonies, and receptions, hosting dignitaries, business leaders, and diplomats from around the world, as well as playing center stage during the annual Lord Mayor’s Show.
- Bank of England Museum - The world’s second-oldest central bank, the Bank of England is the central bank of the United Kingdom and the model for many central banks around the world. Its iconic building, designed by Sir John Soane and completed in 1827, exudes grandeur and architectural significance.
As the UK’s monetary authority, the Bank of England is responsible for maintaining monetary stability, setting interest rates, and regulating the financial system. It plays a crucial role in managing the nation’s economy and safeguarding its financial infrastructure, making it a cornerstone of global finance and a symbol of Britain’s economic resilience.
Your guide will have you standing on top of the vaults of the Bank, which currently hold 310 tonnes of solid bars of gold!
- The Monument to the Great Fire of London - Here, your guide will tell you the story of the most devastating fire to sweep through our city: The Great Fire of London in 1666. Architect Christopher Wren was chosen by King Charles II to rebuild the City, as well as to build this monument to commemorate the disaster.
Opened to the public in the 1670s, it is still possible to visit today and get one of the most unique views of our capital. You’ll also get a special treat should you make it up the 211 steps - and back down again.
- London Bridge - Likely the most famous bridge in the world, London Bridge sits on a site that has held a crossing over the River Thames since the year AD 42. The medieval bridge was famously ‘falling down,’ and here, your guide will tell you why!
The current version of the bridge was constructed in the 1960s, and your guide will tell you where to go to see the previous version (get your passports ready).
- The Shard - Still a bit controversial, The Shard, standing tall at 310 meters (1,016 feet), dominates the London skyline as Western Europe’s tallest building. Designed by architect Renzo Piano, this iconic skyscraper was completed in 2012.
Its sleek glass facade and pyramid-shaped summit offer breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks, making it a popular tourist attraction. The Shard is also home to offices, restaurants, luxury apartments, and a five-star hotel, embodying London’s blend of modernity and architectural innovation.
- Tower Bridge - Tower Bridge, an iconic symbol of London, spans the River Thames with its distinctive bascules and towers. Completed in 1894, this marvel of Victorian engineering is not only a vital river crossing but also a celebrated tourist attraction. Its elegant design, featuring Gothic-style architecture and intricate detailing, has made it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
Tower Bridge offers visitors the chance to explore its high-level walkways, providing panoramic views of the city and its bustling waterway below. The bridge is actually a drawbridge, and you may get the chance to see it opening on one of our summertime afternoon tours.
- HMS Belfast - Across the water, you will see the HMS Belfast, a former Royal Navy cruiser that now serves as a floating museum moored on the River Thames in London.
Commissioned in 1939, HMS Belfast played a vital role in World War II, notably during the D-Day landings and the Arctic convoys. Today, visitors can explore its decks and compartments, gaining insight into naval history and life onboard a warship. With interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive displays, the museum offers a captivating glimpse into the experiences of sailors during wartime.
- Thames River - Here you will get some fantastic views of our beautiful River Thames. Winding its way through the heart of London, this river is a vital waterway that has shaped the city’s history and culture for centuries. Stretching 215 miles (346 kilometers), it is the longest river entirely in England. From its source in the Cotswolds to its estuary leading into the North Sea, the Thames has been a lifeline for trade, transport, and recreation. Its iconic landmarks, such as Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament, line its banks, while its waters have witnessed the ebb and flow of historical events, from Roman settlements to modern-day celebrations.
Today, the Thames remains a bustling hub of activity, offering scenic cruises, riverside walks, and a vibrant waterfront atmosphere that continues to captivate residents and visitors alike.
- Tower of London - The Tower of London, one of the oldest buildings in London and a historic fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands majestically on the north bank of the River Thames. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, this iconic landmark has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury throughout its storied history.
Its imposing walls enclose a complex of buildings, including the White Tower, which houses exhibitions of royal armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. Visitors can explore its medieval battlements, stroll along the scenic Tower Green, and delve into tales of intrigue, betrayal, and royal power.
Today, the Tower of London stands as a symbol of London’s rich heritage and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
- Garden at 120 - SUNDAYS AND MONDAYS ONLY: Finish with a visit to the beautiful Garden at 120 with sweeping views over the London skyline! Note that at busy times, there may be a small wait to access the garden.

- Entertaining tour led by a London local
- Entrance to a stunning London rooftop garden
- Entertaining tour led by a London local
- Entrance to a stunning London rooftop garden
- Gratuities
- Gratuities
Welcome to the “Square Mile!” This tour will guide you through London’s oldest streets, from the Roman settlement 2,000 years ago to the newest and tallest buildings in Europe. This excursion condenses two millennia of history into an engaging 2.5-hour experience!
Our experienced guides have been leading guests through the hidden alleyways of the City of…
Welcome to the “Square Mile!” This tour will guide you through London’s oldest streets, from the Roman settlement 2,000 years ago to the newest and tallest buildings in Europe. This excursion condenses two millennia of history into an engaging 2.5-hour experience!
Our experienced guides have been leading guests through the hidden alleyways of the City of London for over ten years and are eager to share their knowledge with you! With an ideal blend of facts, stories, and humor, these tours are enjoyable for both adults and children.
On Sundays and Mondays, this tour also includes a visit to one of London’s most stunning rooftop gardens!
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.