Scandalous Square Mile – Guided Walking Tour in City of London

Discover the Scandalous Square Mile Walking Tour, an engaging journey through the darker corners of London’s financial district. Priced at $27.53 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, this tour offers a compact yet fascinating look at the city’s hidden stories. Starting in Moorgate and ending near Farringdon, it covers three key stops: Finsbury Circus Gardens, Cheapside, and Smithfield Market. Led by Susannah and limited to 15 participants, the tour emphasizes small-group attention and lively storytelling.

This experience is ideal for those captivated by true crime, scandal, and London’s less-polished history. It’s a cost-effective option packed with intriguing tales that don’t appear in standard guidebooks. While the tour moves at a brisk pace and is suitable for most, it’s especially appreciated by visitors eager for a more offbeat perspective on London’s past.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $27.53 for a guided 1.5-hour walk.
• Focus on dark history, scandal, and true crime stories of London’s City of London.
• Small group environment with a maximum of 15 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• Tour highlights include Finsbury Circus Gardens, Cheapside, and Smithfield Market.
• Led by knowledgeable and friendly guide Susannah, praised for her relaxed style and expertise.
• Free tour with all fees and taxes included, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Starting Point at Moorgate in London’s Financial District

The tour begins at Moorgate, located at London EC2Y 9AE, an area well-connected to public transportation. This initial stop introduces the history of Finsbury Circus Gardens, a surprising spot for dark tales, hidden behind the modern cityscape. The start point’s central location makes it easy to access, and the free admission to this stop allows travelers to focus on the stories rather than entry fees.

From Moorgate, the guide leads groups through the heart of the City, emphasizing its shady past while passing by prominent sights. The tour’s duration of about 1 hour 30 minutes is manageable for most, with enough time to absorb captivating stories without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Hidden History of Finsbury Circus Gardens

The tour kicks off in the Moorgate area, exploring the secrets behind Finsbury Circus Gardens. Despite its lush appearance today, this spot hides stories linked to scandal and intrigue. The guide shares details about the area’s hidden past, setting the tone for a journey into London’s darker side.

This stop lasts around 30 minutes, giving enough time to appreciate the environment and hear stories that might surprise even seasoned London visitors. The free admission means no extra costs, making it a great value starting point.

Navigating Cheapside’s Darker Past and Hidden Corners

Next, the group moves through Cheapside, one of London’s most famous streets with a history steeped in scandal and crime. The guide unpacks tales of notorious figures, including one of the city’s shadiest doctors, and uncovers hidden corners that most guidebooks overlook.

Covering another 30-minute segment, this part of the tour emphasizes the darker side of London’s commercial heart. Expect stories about money scandals in present-day London intertwined with historic tales, making the experience both entertaining and educational.

Discovering Smithfield Market’s Historical and Scandalous Past

The final stop is at Smithfield Market, a site once known for drunken carnivals, jousting, executions, and fake seances. Today, it hosts lively cafes, bars, and easy access to public transport. The guide shares stories of public executions and medieval misdeeds that took place here, revealing a more gritty side of London’s history.

This part of the tour, also lasting around 30 minutes, wraps up the experience with a look at Smithfield’s notorious past, providing a stark contrast to its modern-day appearance.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour price of $27.53 includes all fees and taxes, along with the guiding services. It is a mobile ticket tour, making it convenient to join directly at the meeting point. The small maximum group size of 15 ensures a more personal experience, with the guide able to focus on individual interests or questions.

Food and drinks, as well as hotel transfers, are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The tour is suitable for most participants, including those with service animals, thanks to its accessible nature.

Logistics and Meeting Details in Central London

The tour departs from Moorgate, located at London EC2Y 9AE, and concludes at Smithfield Market, near Farringdon underground station. Its proximity to public transportation makes it easy to incorporate into a day of exploring London. The tour operates with confirmation received at booking, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

Insight into the Guide’s Style and Guest Experience

Praised for her knowledgeable and friendly approach, guide Susannah makes the stories engaging without feeling like a lecture. Her relaxed style and relevant storytelling keep the group interested, even in cold weather. The tour’s reviews highlight her marvelous storytelling and the relevance of every stop.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour caters best to those interested in historical true crime, scandal, and lesser-known stories of London. It suits adults and older teens comfortable walking at a brisk pace. The small group setting is particularly appealing for travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized experience.

Final Thoughts on the Scandalous Square Mile Tour

The $27.53 price point offers excellent value for a focused, storytelling-driven walk through London’s hidden history. Its stops at Finsbury Circus Gardens, Cheapside, and Smithfield Market provide a comprehensive look into the city’s shady past, making it ideal for history buffs and true crime fans.

While the tour moves quickly through each site, the expert narration and engaging stories ensure that the experience remains lively and informative. It’s a great way to meet fellow history enthusiasts and discover London’s darker stories beyond the usual sightseeing.

If you enjoy dark history, scandal, and underground tales, this small-group tour delivers a fun, affordable, and insightful glimpse into London’s less-glamorous past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the dark historical themes may be more suitable for older teens and adults.

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

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Moorgate, London EC2Y 9AE and ends near Farringdon underground station at Smithfield Market.

What is included in the price?
All fees, taxes, and the guide’s services are included; food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
Most participants can join, and service animals are allowed.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its focus on dark stories and scandals in the City of London, led by an expert guide in a small group, creates an intimate and engaging experience.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price is all-inclusive with no extra fees.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially in colder weather.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made through the provider, Square Mile Secrets, with the confirmation received immediately after booking.

This guide is a practical, detailed look at the Scandalous Square Mile Walking Tour, perfect for those seeking dark tales and hidden corners of London with a knowledgeable guide and great value.