City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire

5.0 (12 reviews) 2 h 30 min Free cancellation

out of 5

12 reviews

5.0

Duke Wellington at the Royal Exchange — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

On the tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

The origin story of London, the City that shaped the world's greatest empire, sparked the Industrial Revolution, and created the model for modern central banks.

Its history began over a millennium before Westminster Abbey was built, with the Roman invasion and the construction of the Wall to protect this vital settlement.

Within these ancient boundaries, unique traditions and resilience flourished, transforming London into a global powerhouse.

Highlights:

Trace London’s evolution from Celtic roots through Roman, Saxon, Viking, and Norman eras.
Discover its defiance against royal authority and role in shaping democracy.
Explore the birthplace of the Magna Carta and its transformation into a world empire.
Witness resilience through plague, fire, and revolution.
Learn about the dragon emblem and its enduring significance.

Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike, this expert-guided tour brings to life London’s fascinating past and enduring legends.

Private and Luxury Historical Tours Walking Tours Culture New Product Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 2 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 60 people
People per booking: 1–18
Guide: English
Operated by: Dragon Lore

Ages: Children (8–11 years) · Youth (12–17 years) · Adults (18–65 years) · Seniors (66–97 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Multilingual - Just tell us the language in advance
Included: Gain a unique history of the City of London
Included: PDF Overview of Tour

Itinerary

St. Alphage London Wall

15 min

We begin our journey in the Salters garden where the history of many peoples converge from Roman to Norman.
Stop 2

10 min

The oldest part of the wall is this Fort.
St. Giles Cripplegate

10 min

One of the oldest mediaeval churches in the City since Norman time that was once the site of older Saxon Church.
Salter's Hall Garden

10 min

The Roman wall is the physical structure that helped fortify the City of London from outside influence ever since the Romans built it.

We also delve into the Celtic people. The indigenous people of these lands and the ones who made it necessary for the Romans to fortify Londinium with the wall!

Having set the scene we look to the Salter's Hall to delve into the history of London's history of Trade, Governance, and Sacrifice through the years. The Salter's Hall being ranked 9th among the 12 most important Livery companies (formerly known as Guilds).
Stop 5

10 min

The livery company that set the standard for booze!
St Mary Aldermanbury Garden

10 min

The ruins of this ancient church derives its name from the ancient court or bery of the aldermen, which is now held at the Guildhall. The garden today hosts memorials to a Shakespeare and two legends of two different Livery companies.
City of London

5 min

The municipal governing body of the City of London and the historic centre of London.
Guildhall

15 min

The town hall of the City of London has been on its current site since at least the 13th century. We take a look at it's history and mythology since Greek through to Roman, Saxon and Norman influences.
St. Lawrence Jewry

5 min

The official church of the City of London Corporation remembers the saint the saint who helped Christianity to flourish with a sacrifice that was unforgettably cruel.
Guildhall Art Gallery

25 min

Location of the Roman Amphitheatre
St. Margaret Lothbury Church

5 min

This Church represents two of the Wards of the City of London and we look at how livery companies came by their naming as 'Worshipful' companies.
The Royal Exchange

5 min

Built by a legend for adventurers to meet. These men went onto shape the new world.

We also find out about what the the golden grasshopper is doing on top of it!
Mansion House of City of London

5 min

At the head of govenance is The Lord Mayor of the City of London. In addition he is an international ambassador for the UK's financial and professional services sector. This is his home.
London Troops War Memorial

10 min

Inside a circle of 12 dragon (lamposts) representing the 12 great livery companies we highlight some of the notable figures remembered around this area and then we conclude, returning to the story of Minotaur.
Stop 15

5 min

We take at look at this most influential, traditional but still very forward looking institution. The Golden statue on top tells an interesting story.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meet outside Barbie Green restaurant next to the Ruins.

You will recognize me by my longish hair & beard, and you'll see a felt image of a green dragon on my backpack.

End point

We conclude inside the circle of dragons that made the City of London as we know it today.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

Good to know

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Options

Shared Group Tour - Per Person
Shorter route - Small-Group

Shorter route - Small-Group : A shorter 1.5-hour introduction to the historic City of London, following its main story through key landmarks.
Semi-Private - Up to 4 Persons

Semi-Private - Up to 4 Persons: Enjoy a more personal City of London walking tour for your own small party of up to four guests.