The Mayflower Private Walking Tour

Discover the Mayflower’s London Origins on a Private Walking Tour

The Mayflower Private Walking Tour offers a captivating journey through London’s South Bank, focusing on the historic ships, iconic landmarks, and the stories behind them. Priced at $205.29 per person, this 3-hour private experience is designed for those interested in history, architecture, and local stories. The tour departs from Mansion House Station and includes pickup options, group discounts, and a mobile ticket for convenience.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts seeking an immersive exploration of London’s vibrant South Bank. It covers famous sites like Tate Modern, Borough Market, and HMS Belfast, along with lesser-known yet significant locations like Crossbones Graveyard and Shad Thames. The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, making it an ideal choice for family groups or those wanting a flexible, in-depth walk through this lively part of London.

While the tour involves a substantial 4-5 mile walk, it remains manageable for those with moderate physical fitness. The tour’s highlights include free admission to select sites, a detailed narration of London’s maritime past, and opportunities to see historic pubs and modern landmarks. The experience is also designed to be safe and comfortable, with options for hotel pickup and masked guides, especially suitable during ongoing health concerns.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience in the heart of London’s South Bank
• Includes visits to historic and modern landmarks like Tate Modern, Borough Market, and HMS Belfast
• Highlights the Mayflower’s departure site and other maritime history points
• Duration of about 3 hours, covering a 4-5 mile walk
• Admission to select sites included, with some attractions like the Clink Prison Museum and Tower of London being self-guided
• Operates in all weather, with safety measures like masks and private groups

Starting at Millennium Bridge, the Iconic Gateway to London’s Modern Art

The tour begins at the Millennium Bridge, a sleek, pedestrian-only crossing that connects St. Paul’s Cathedral with the Tate Modern. Recognizable from Harry Potter films and other movies, this bridge offers stunning views of the Thames and sets a modern tone for the walk ahead. Since admission is free, visitors can enjoy the spectacular architecture and river scenery at the start of the journey.

Following the bridge, the guide leads you past Tate Modern, the world’s largest modern art gallery, housed in a historic power station. The building itself is an impressive sight, and many of the structures along the route have been converted into cultural or commercial spaces, adding a sense of London’s evolving landscape.

Exploring Winchester Palace Ruins and the Clink Prison Museum

A short walk brings visitors to the ruins of Winchester Palace, a site that has withstood centuries of industrial change and wartime damage. The remaining walls and foundations offer a glimpse into medieval London’s grandeur. Admission to this site is included, allowing a closer look at its historic significance.

Next, the tour visits the Clink Prison Museum, renowned for its eerie atmosphere and dark history. Though the area is now quite fashionable, this site once housed one of the most notorious prisons in Britain. While admission is not included, the museum’s exterior and surroundings provide a stark contrast to the lively South Bank streets, enriching the tour’s historical context.

Maritime Heritage at the Golden Hinde Replica and HMS Belfast

The Golden Hinde is a full-scale replica of Sir Francis Drake’s famous ship, offering an authentic look at maritime exploration. Though admission is not included, the ship’s exterior makes for a great photo opportunity and sparks imagination about London’s seafaring past.

Just nearby, the HMS Belfast stands as a tangible reminder of World War II. As an old Royal Navy cruiser, it is now a museum docked on the Thames. Visitors can explore its decks and learn about its role during wartime, providing a vivid connection to London’s naval history.

Visiting Crossbones Graveyard and the Marshalsea Prison Site

The tour pauses at Crossbones Graveyard, the resting place of thousands of plague victims, criminals, and ‘fallen’ women. Its Garden of Remembrance offers a peaceful spot to reflect on London’s darker social history. The included admission allows a respectful visit to this significant site, linked to poverty, social reform, and Dickensian tales.

Nearby, the Marshalsea Prison South Wall marks the former site of a notorious debtor’s prison, where Charles Dickens’ family was incarcerated. The small park now stands on this historically weighty location, connecting literature, law, and social history.

The Historic George Tavern and Southwark Cathedral

The George is the only remaining galleried tavern in London, once a gathering place for writers and artists. Its yard is linked to the pilgrims in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Although admission is not included, the pub’s historic ambiance is worth a quick look.

The Southwark Cathedral offers a stunning example of ecclesiastical architecture. Once an independent city, Southwark’s cathedral is a beautiful yet often overlooked landmark that continues to serve as a spiritual and historical hub.

Borough Market and London Bridge: From Food to Folklore

A highlight of the tour is Borough Market, one of London’s oldest food markets, with origins dating back over 1,000 years—possibly Roman times. Visitors can admire the vibrant stalls and smell delicious aromas from around the world. Considering admission is included, it’s a wonderful spot to experience London’s culinary diversity.

Following the market, the group walks to London Bridge, known worldwide, and learns about its historical significance and notorious reputation. The bridge’s story includes tales of ruthless events and engineering marvels.

From Hay’s Galleria to the Tower of London

Next, the walk takes in Hay’s Galleria, a former dockyard transformed into a lively dining and shopping area, and then HMS Belfast, the wartime cruiser now open for tours. Both sites offer insight into London’s maritime and industrial pasts.

The City Hall, with its distinctive “armadillo” shape, is visible from the outside, housing the London Mayor and Assembly. The nearby Tower of London, though seen from the street, remains a symbol of royal history and fortress defense.

Modern Attractions: The Scoop, Tower Bridge, and Shad Thames

The Scoop outdoor theater provides a modern counterpoint to the historical sites, hosting events and performances. Then, the group walks under Tower Bridge, a hydraulic-lifted icon that symbolizes London’s engineering prowess. Although admission is not included, the bridge’s walkways and views are a must-see.

The tour concludes by exploring Shad Thames, a historic street once called the “Venice of Drains,” famous for murders, executions, and its Dickensian connections. The area’s warehouses have transformed into trendy apartments, blending history with contemporary life.

Visiting the Mayflower Pub and Rotherhithe’s Historic Sites

The final stops include St Mary’s Church in Rotherhithe, with its monument to the Pilgrim Fathers and the burial site of the captain of the Mayflower. The Mayflower Pub is an iconic spot where the ship’s crew departed for the New World. It’s advisable to return here after the tour to enjoy a drink or meal.

Nearby, the Brunel Museum highlights Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s pioneering work, including the first underwater tunnel. The Watchhouse Café, once a place to safeguard bodies washed ashore, now offers organic snacks and a cozy atmosphere.

The Unique Experience of a Private, Well-Planned Walk

Throughout the 3-hour tour, the professional guide shares detailed stories about London’s maritime history, social reform, and famous figures. The private setting ensures an intimate experience with flexibility to customize or linger at certain sites.

The tour operates rain or shine and prioritizes safety, with masked guides and private groups. The meeting point at Mansion House is accessible by public transport or taxi, with options for hotel pickup.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This experience suits those with moderate fitness who enjoy history, architecture, and cultural stories. The detailed itinerary covers both historic ruins and modern landmarks, making it ideal for first-time visitors or locals wishing to see familiar sites from a new perspective. The cost includes admission to key sites but note that some attractions like Tower of London and HMS Belfast are self-guided or external.

The combination of walking, storytelling, and site visits offers a comprehensive and personalized way to explore London’s South Bank and Rotherhithe areas within a manageable timeframe.

The Sum Up: An Enriching Walk Through London’s Maritime and Cultural Heritage

The Mayflower Private Walking Tour delivers a well-rounded exploration of London’s historic South Bank, blending famous landmarks with lesser-known stories. The private format guarantees a tailored experience, ideal for history buffs and those seeking a deeper understanding of London’s maritime past, social history, and modern vibrancy.

While the 3-hour duration involves a substantial walk, the inclusion of admission to several attractions and the expert narration make it a worthwhile investment for curious, engaged visitors. The tour’s highlights, from Borough Market to Tower Bridge, showcase London’s dynamic character, blending old and new seamlessly.

This tour is best suited for moderate fitness levels and those interested in a detailed, private journey through some of London’s most storied locations. With safety measures in place and flexible options, it provides a safe, educational, and engaging way to discover the long history of London’s South Bank and Rotherhithe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes a local and professional guide, private experience, hotel pickup and drop-off if selected, and admission to several key sites like Crossbones Graveyard, Borough Market, and St Mary’s Church.

Are attractions like Tower of London and HMS Belfast included?
No, these sites are not included in the admission, but they can be viewed from outside or explored independently after the tour.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at Mansion House Station, 38 Cannon St, London EC4N 6JD, UK, at 9:30 am.

Is this tour suitable during bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate clothing is recommended.

How long is the walk and how demanding is it?
The tour involves approximately 4-5 miles of walking over about 3 hours, requiring moderate physical fitness.