Roman London Private Walking Tour

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides, ideal for archaeology enthusiasts
• Includes access to Roman ruins, walls, and the underground Temple of Mithras
• Duration of 3 to 4 hours, with stops covering major Roman sites in London’s City area
• Guided walking tour starting at Panyer Alley and ending near Bank Underground Station
• Cost is $233.17 per person, with group discounts available and advance booking recommended

Explore Roman London from the Heart of the City

This private walking tour offers an up-close look at London’s Roman past, tailored for archaeology fans and history buffs. For $233.17 per person, the tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, taking participants into the lesser-seen corners of the City of London, where ancient Roman ruins still lie beneath modern streets. The experience is unrushed and personalized, thanks to the private guide who collects you via public transport, removing the stress of navigating alone.

The tour is ideal for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking through alleyways, parks, and historic sites. It operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is recommended. Access to some underground sites, like the Temple of Mithras, requires advanced booking, but many stops are free to visit. This tour suits history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and curious visitors eager to see a side of London often hidden from casual visitors.

From St. Paul’s Cathedral to the Roman Wall

The tour begins in front of St. Paul’s Cathedral, where the guide explains its significance and the Roman goddess Diana’s ancient temple that once stood nearby. Just a few steps away, the Church of St Vedast Alias Foster reveals Roman relics tucked away from street view, providing an immediate taste of London’s layered history.

Next, the route takes visitors along Noble Street, where a Roman wall was uncovered during World War II, showcasing discovered Roman foundations. The Cripplegate Street gates and nearby Roman city wall sections highlight how London’s Roman defenses once encircled the city. Every location offers insight into how Roman London was fortified and organized, with many sites being free to access.

Visiting the Roman Amphitheatre and the Guildhall

One of the tour’s highlights is London’s Roman Amphitheatre, where visitors stand beneath the modern streets to see the remains of an ancient gladiatorial arena. This archaeological site, only discovered in recent decades, provides a rare glimpse into public entertainment and Roman daily life.

The tour continues toward Guildhall, an impressive historic building that served as a hub for the City of London Corporation. While its current appearance is medieval and Victorian, the guide points out the Roman connections visible beneath the structure, demonstrating how London’s layered history spans centuries.

Underground Roman Sights: The Temple of Mithras and London Stone

A major focus of the tour is the underground Temple of Mithras, which you visit at the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE. After descending beneath the modern city, visitors see hundreds of Roman artefacts and the remains of the ancient temple, which was rediscovered during construction works. The guide explains the significance of Mithras worship in Roman Britain and how the temple’s rediscovery changed understanding of Roman London.

Alongside this, the London Stone serves as a legendary relic dating back as far as Roman Londinium. Its mystique and historical importance make it a must-see point that adds a touch of myth to the Roman journey.

Highlights at the Old City’s Roman Foundations

The tour also covers the Roman wall, which visitors see in several spots, including Leadenhall Market, built on top of Roman remains. The old Roman gate at Aldgate Square and Vine Street’s Roman artefacts reveal how London’s original defenses and gates shaped the city’s layout.

All Hallows By The Tower features the oldest archway in London along with Roman remains of a Roman house. Nearby, the Tomb of the Unknown Roman Girl commemorates some of the earliest residents of Roman London, emphasizing the human stories behind the ruins.

Roman Baths and Other Hidden Finds

Billingsgate Roman Bath House marks the location where Roman London’s public baths once stood, though access is not included in the tour. Visitors also see the remnants of Roman structures at St. Magnus The Martyr, which holds perhaps the last part of the original Roman London Bridge. These sites highlight how Roman infrastructure continues to influence London’s historic core.

St. Dunstan In The East is included despite being not strictly Roman; its peaceful ruins and tranquil gardens make it a beautiful stop, showcasing how London’s ruins blend with later periods.

The Roman Wall and Its Modern Context

The tour dedicates significant time to the remains of the Roman wall, with visits to multiple sections where the ancient stonework is still visible. The guide explains the wall’s original route and how it encircled Londinium. These segments illustrate the defensive purpose of Roman London and how these ancient boundaries still influence the city’s layout today.

The Final Stops: The Great Fire Monument and the Gherkin

Towards the end, visitors see the Monument to the Great Fire of London, marking the spot where the fire started. The guide shares interesting stories about the fire, alongside visuals of London’s Roman past.

Just outside the Tower of London, the Emperor Trajan Statue stands as a reminder of Roman imperial influence, and Leadenhall Market reveals Roman foundations beneath Victorian architecture, often with hidden Roman fragments that archaeologists have uncovered.

Accessibility, Logistics, and Booking Tips

The tour starts at Panyer Alley at 9:30 am and ends near Bank Underground Station, making it easy to incorporate into a day exploring London. The guide collects participants via public transport, offering a convenient way to access some sites.

Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially for underground locations like the Temple of Mithras, which requires pre-arranged access during peak times. The tour is guaranteed to operate in all weather conditions, and group discounts are available for larger parties. Transportation to and from the tour stops is not included, so planning for walking and public transit is necessary.

Why This Tour Stands Out in London

What makes this Roman London private walking tour unique is its focus on hidden, underground, and often inaccessible Roman sites, combined with the expertise of guides like Kevin and Stephen, praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging storytelling. The tour offers a comprehensive journey through Roman history, from the city’s earliest foundations to later medieval and Victorian layers.

The personalized approach ensures that participants see sites most tours overlook, with many locations off the beaten path, yet all connected by London’s Roman heritage. The inclusion of underground sites like the Temple of Mithras provides a rare glimpse into Roman religious practices and urban life.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This tour is best suited for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and those interested in ancient London. It offers a deep dive into Roman Londinium, making it ideal for visitors who enjoy detailed storytelling and hidden city secrets. Plus, the walking pace and outdoor nature make it suitable for those comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Couples, solo travelers, and groups who value private, flexible tours will find this experience especially rewarding. Families with older children interested in history also appreciate the interactive, discovery-based approach.

Final Thoughts on the Roman London Private Walking Tour

This tour offers an extensive exploration of London’s Roman roots, blending surface ruins with underground discoveries. The private guide ensures a tailored experience, sharing stories and insights that bring ancient Londinium to life.

While not suitable for those seeking a quick overview, the tour rewards those willing to walk and explore with incredible access to sites often hidden from view. The cost of $233.17 per person reflects the personalized, in-depth nature of this journey into London’s ancient past.

This Roman London private walking tour stands out as a rich, detailed, and engaging way to see London’s ancient history in its modern setting—perfect for dedicated archaeology lovers and history enthusiasts eager to see the city’s Roman foundations firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and interest in history. It involves walking and exploring many sites, some underground, so younger children should be comfortable with extended walking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour generally lasts about 3 to 4 hours, depending on pace and the group’s interests. It covers numerous stops across central London’s Roman and medieval sites.

Are the underground sites included in the price?
Access to the Temple of Mithras at London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE is included and requires advance booking. Many other locations are free to visit from the outside or do not require special tickets.

What should I wear?
Dressing smart casual and appropriate for all weather conditions is advised, as the tour operates in rain or shine and involves outdoor walking.

Can I join this tour without booking in advance?
Booking at least 24 hours in advance is recommended to ensure access to underground sites and to secure your spot, as it’s a private tour with limited availability.