Secret Old London Walking Tour

Discover Hidden Stories of Old London with This Walking Tour

The Secret Old London Walking Tour offers a captivating journey through some of the city’s most atmospheric and lesser-known historical sites. For $24.25 per person, this 1.5-hour guided walk takes you through areas that still bear the marks of London’s medieval and Tudor eras. Starting outside Barbican Underground Station, the tour provides an intimate look at London’s dark past, including scenes of executions, plague dumping grounds, and ancient churches, all led by knowledgeable guides.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate history, architecture, and stories of guts and gore. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an authentic glimpse into London’s more mysterious side, especially since it covers sites often overlooked by typical sightseeing routes. Keep in mind, the walk involves some uneven paths and is best suited for those over age 12, with no pets allowed except guide dogs.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: $24.25 per person for 1.5 hours of exploration.
• Starting Point: Outside Barbican Underground Station, with the walk ending back at the same location.
• Historical Focus: Visits to medieval sites, execution locations, Roman ruins, and memorials.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Rosie, Pepe, and Jesse bring London’s history to life with engaging storytelling.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for anyone over 12 with comfortable shoes.
• No refreshments included, so plan accordingly for snacks or drinks after the walk.

Starting Point at Barbican Underground Station

The tour begins right outside Barbican Underground Station, making it easy to access via London’s Tube network. The meeting point is straightforward, setting the tone for a smooth experience. After the walk, the tour circle brings you back to the starting point, making logistics simple for participants.

From the Medieval Churchyard to the Roman Amphitheatre

One of the tour’s notable highlights is visiting St Bartholomew the Great, a medieval church used in movies like Four Weddings & A Funeral. Its stunning architecture contrasts with the area’s darker past, as it still stands amid the streets unchanged for hundreds of years.

As you walk, you’ll also visit Charterhouse Square, a peaceful space that once served as London’s Black Death dumping ground. Nearby, Smithfield hosts medieval jousts and historic executions, including that of William Wallace. Trainees get to imagine the screams of terror at this historic execution site, a reminder of London’s gruesome past.

Exploring London’s Guts and Gore: Execution Sites and Plague Fields

You’ll stand at the location of London’s principal execution sites, where condemnations once took place, and hear stories that bring these spots alive. The tour also takes you past the shell of a church destroyed during the Blitz, reminding visitors of London’s resilience.

The route leads to Charterhouse Square, which bears the tranquil aura of today but once was a place of death and disease. The walk highlights how London’s dark past is still visible in its streets, many unchanged for centuries.

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Discovering the Roman Roots beneath London Streets

A key feature of this tour is locating the perimeter of a Roman amphitheatre. Though long lost, the site’s remains provide a fascinating link to London’s ancient past. The guide points out markings and clues on the streets that hint at this ancient structure, making history feel tangible.

This part of the walk offers a rare chance to imagine gladiatorial fights and Roman spectacles right in the heart of modern London, connecting past and present seamlessly.

Inside a Bombed-Out Church and Memorials of Sacrifice

Participants get to stand inside the shell of a church destroyed during the Blitz, offering a powerful visual of London’s wartime history. Nearby, a touching memorial honors heroic acts of self-sacrifice, adding emotional weight to the walk.

The tour emphasizes the enduring nature of these sites and their stories, giving visitors a deeper sense of London’s resilience through centuries of hardship.

The Atmosphere of Old London Streets

The walk takes place through streets that have remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years. These quiet lanes and open spaces allow for a reflective atmosphere, perfect for absorbing the stories of the city’s darker times.

The guides excel at creating a lively, engaging environment, blending historical facts with vivid storytelling. Their in-depth insights extend beyond mere dates and events, touching on politics, architecture, and language history.

Practical Details and Accessibility

Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the walk involves walking on uneven surfaces and through historic streets. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that a wider audience can enjoy London’s hidden stories.

Meet at Barbican Underground Station, with the activity lasting 1.5 hours. The guided tour is conducted in English, with no food or drink included, so participants should bring water or snacks if desired.

Why This Tour Offers Unique Value

Compared to typical city tours, this walk dives into London’s lesser-seen history, revealing sites with stories of plague, execution, Roman spectacles, and wartime destruction. Guides like Rosie, Pepe, and Jesse are praised for their knowledge, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Most reviews highlight the informative narration, enthusiastic guides, and the chance to see parts of London that are often hidden or overlooked. The tour is paced well, allowing visitors to absorb information comfortably without feeling rushed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience appeals to history enthusiasts, those curious about London’s darker chapters, and visitors who appreciate storytelling combined with real-world exploration. It also suits people seeking a short, engaging activity that offers a different perspective on the city’s past.

Because the tour is suitable for all over age 12 and accessible to wheelchair users, it can accommodate a diverse group of participants. However, it’s not suited for pets or large luggage, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts on the Secret Old London Walking Tour

This tour offers a unique glimpse into London’s shadowy past through a walk that covers medieval churches, execution sites, Roman foundations, and wartime memorials. The $24.25 price point provides excellent value for a rich, story-packed experience led by passionate guides.

While it focuses on dark history, it balances this with the beauty of old streets and impressive historic architecture. Perfect for those who enjoy walking, stories, and uncovering hidden city secrets, this tour makes an excellent addition to any London itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for anyone over 12 years old, with no pets allowed except guide dogs.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours and covers a variety of historic sites and stories.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins outside Barbican Underground Station and ends back at the same location.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Are refreshments included?
No, refreshments are not included; visitors should bring their own if desired.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now with the option to pay later.

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