Slavery and City of London Walking Tour

Explore the Hidden Histories of London’s Enslaved Communities

The Slavery and City of London Walking Tour offers a compelling look into London’s overlooked past connected to the transatlantic slave trade. Priced at $27.55 per person, this 1 hour 30 minutes guided walk covers key sites and reveals how slave labor from British colonies helped grow the UK. The tour departs from Tower Hill TramTrinity Square and ends near Aldgate Station, making it easy to access via public transport.

This tour stands out by combining famous landmarks with hidden sights, providing an honest view of London’s role in historical slavery. It’s led by a knowledgeable guide—Sam from Sam’s Walks—who brings the city’s past to life with engaging storytelling. The small group size of up to 35 people ensures a personal experience, and reviews praise its depth of insight and engaging narration.

While the tour offers rich historical detail, it’s best suited for those interested in social history and urban exploration. It’s a meaningful way to understand the city beyond typical sightseeing routes, though it’s mainly on foot and involves some walking over historic sites.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible tour at $27.55 for 1.5 hours of exploration
• Learn about London’s role in the transatlantic slave trade and British colonial growth
• Visit iconic landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Bank of England Museum
• Discover hidden sites like the Roman wall of Londonium and East India House
• Led by an expert guide, Sam, known for his engaging storytelling and historical knowledge
• Small group experience maximizes interaction and insight

The Starting Point and Tour Duration

The tour begins at Tower Hill TramTrinity Square at 12:00 pm and lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to join. The end point is at Aldgate Station, on the Central line, which makes returning or continuing your exploration straightforward.

This timing allows for an easy addition to a day of sightseeing in London. The length is perfect for those wanting an in-depth yet manageable walk, with enough time to absorb the stories without feeling rushed.

Visiting the Roman Wall of Londonium

The first stop features the Roman wall of Londonium, which dates back 2,000 years. This site shows where Londinium was founded and highlights how Romans enslaved Britons, even as they complained the locals were lazy. Admission is free, and the 5-minute visit provides a tangible link to London’s ancient past.

This site offers a glimpse of the city’s ancient origins and underscores slave labor’s role in London’s early history. It also sets the tone for understanding how slavery has shaped the city through the centuries.

The Site of East India House and Its Dark Past

Next, the tour visits the site of East India House, formerly the headquarters of the East India Company. This company depended heavily on slave labor and trafficked in slaves from East and West Africa. Standing at this location connects visitors directly to the trade routes and economic power built on slavery.

While the building itself no longer exists, understanding its history reveals the depth of London’s involvement in global slavery networks and colonial commerce. It’s a stark reminder of how intertwined wealth and exploitation are in the city’s history.

Fen Gardens and the Gilt of Cain Sculpture

At Fenchurch Street, the tour stops at Fen Gardens, home to the Gilt of Cain Sculpture. This artwork commemorates the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. The sculpture serves as a visual reminder of London’s role in ending slavery and encourages reflection on this pivotal change.

Spending about 10 minutes here allows for a moment to consider the progress and struggles of abolition, connecting historical events to modern values. It’s a meaningful spot to appreciate London’s complex legacy.

The Jamaica Wine House and the Coffee Trade

The walk includes the Jamaica Wine House, where London’s first coffee house once opened. This location was a hub within the sugar trade and slave plantations of the West Indies. Its history links coffee consumption directly to slave-driven plantation economies.

This stop provides insight into everyday life in London, illustrating how slave labor influenced global trade and consumer culture. The site’s history makes it clear how pervasive and interconnected slavery’s legacy remains.

John Newton and the Church of St. Mary Woolnoth

At St. Mary Woolnoth Church, the tour highlights John Newton, a slavery abolitionist who served as rector here. Newton’s story exemplifies the moral opposition to slavery and his famous hymn “Amazing Grace” echoes his journey.

Spending around 10 minutes at this site emphasizes individual stories of resistance and change. It’s a powerful reminder of religious and social movements that contributed to abolishing slavery in Britain.

The Bank of England Museum and Its Acknowledgment

The Bank of England Museum features prominently in the tour, especially given the recent apologies and removals of statues of past directors involved in slavery. The Bank has committed to acknowledging its historical ties to enslavers and removing symbols of these figures.

Visitors learn how the bank’s wealth was linked to slave trading profits, making this a critical stop for understanding London’s financial history with slavery. The 15-minute visit offers a sobering but insightful perspective on economic legacies.

The Royal Africa Company and City Hall

The tour also examines the Royal Africa Company, with its shareholders being Sheriffs, mayors, and aldermen of London. The building associated with this organization shows London’s direct involvement in the transatlantic slave trade and African colonization.

This site reveals how local government officials benefited from slavery, adding a political dimension to the history. It’s a tangible connection to London’s civic ties to slavery and exploitation.

The Final Stop at St. Paul’s Cathedral

The walk concludes near St. Paul’s Cathedral, a symbol of London’s architectural grandeur and historical resilience. The 5-minute stop here allows visitors to appreciate the city’s enduring landmarks as they reflect on the stories uncovered during the tour.

The final location provides a moment to process the journey, linking London’s rich history with modern identity.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The tour is suitable for most people, with confirmation received at booking. It’s designed to accommodate most travelers, with a maximum group size of 35 ensuring an engaging experience. The meet-up point at Tower Hill TramTrinity Square and the end at Aldgate Station make logistics straightforward.

Booking typically occurs about 18 days in advance, and the tour is canceled free of charge if canceled at least 24 hours beforehand. Weather considerations are important, as the walk is outdoors. It’s recommended for those interested in social history and urban landmarks with a curiosity about London’s colonial past.

Engaging Guide and Visitor Feedback

Sam, the guide, receives glowing praise for his broad knowledge, engaging storytelling, and humor. Reviews highlight the clarity of his explanations and the depth of insight he offers into Roman, Victorian, and modern London.

Participants appreciate the balance of landmark visits and hidden sights, with many describing the tour as both informative and enjoyable. The small group setting fosters a personal connection and lively discussion.

The Sum Up: An Eye-Opening Journey Through London’s Past

The Slavery and City of London Walking Tour offers a thought-provoking perspective on London’s history rarely covered in typical sightseeing tours. At $27.55, it provides a value-rich experience that combines landmark visits, hidden sites, and powerful stories about slave labor, abolition, and economic ties.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, social justice advocates, and urban explorers eager to understand London’s complex legacy. It’s a meaningful addition to any itinerary, especially for those who want to see the city through a different lens.

While it demands some walking and an interest in social history, the expert narration and engaging stops make it well worth the modest price. If you’re seeking a thoughtful, informative tour that connects London’s past to its present, this is an excellent choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Tower Hill TramTrinity Square and ends at Aldgate Station.

What is the price?
The tour costs $27.55 per person.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but some walking is involved on historic sites.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Roman wall of Londonium, East India House site, Fenchurch Street, Jamaica Wine House, St. Mary Woolnoth Church, Bank of England Museum, Royal Africa Company building, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

How is the guide rated?
Guide Sam is highly praised for his knowledge and engaging style.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Since the tour is outdoors, good walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Is it a large group?
Groups are limited to 35 people maximum for a more personal experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked about 18 days in advance.