City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire Discount Tickets

Get your discount tickets for the City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire, save up to 14% !

Overview

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.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

London Wall Place, England, EC2Y 5AU, United Kingdom

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

End point

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

Language Offered

German-AUDIO

German-WRITTEN

Mandarin-AUDIO

Mandarin-WRITTEN

Cantonese-AUDIO

Cantonese-WRITTEN

English-GUIDE

English-WRITTEN

Italian-AUDIO

Italian-WRITTEN

French-AUDIO

French-WRITTEN

Itinerary

1. St. Alphage London Wall
We begin our journey in the Salters garden where the history of many peoples converge from Roman to Norman.
Duration: 15 mins
2. Roman city wall
The oldest part of the wall is this Fort.
Duration: 10 mins
3. St. Giles Cripplegate
One of the oldest mediaeval churches in the City since Norman time that was once the site of older Saxon Church.
Duration: 10 mins
4. Salter's Hall Garden
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).
Duration: 10 mins
5. Brewers' Hall
The livery company that set the standard for booze!
Duration: 10 mins
6. St Mary Aldermanbury Garden
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.
Duration: 10 mins
7. City of London
The municipal governing body of the City of London and the historic centre of London.
Duration: 5 mins
8. Guildhall
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.
Duration: 15 mins
9. St. Lawrence Jewry
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.
Duration: 5 mins
10. Guildhall Art Gallery
Location of the Roman Amphitheatre
Duration: 25 mins
11. St. Margaret Lothbury Church
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.
Duration: 5 mins
12. The Royal Exchange
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!
Duration: 5 mins
13. Mansion House of City of London
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.
Duration: 5 mins
14. London Troops War Memorial
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.
Duration: 10 mins
15. Bank of England
We take at look at this most influential, traditional but still very forward looking institution. The Golden statue on top tells an interesting story.
Duration: 5 mins

Inclusion

Multilingual - Just tell us the language in advance

Gain a unique history of the City of London

PDF Overview of Tour

Cancellation Policy

Check mark icon Refundable tickets

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

  • 100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

Additional Info

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

Supplied by Dragon Lore

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