Secret Old London Walking Tour

Embarking on the Secret Old London Walking Tour offers a chance to see a side of London most visitors miss. This 1.5-hour stroll takes you through atmospheric streets steeped in history, revealing stories of medieval horrors, political upheaval, and resilience. From ancient churches to Roman ruins, it’s a compelling mix that appeals especially to history buffs and those curious about London’s darker chapters.

What makes this tour stand out are the knowledgeable guides, the stunning historic sights, and the authentic atmosphere that transports you back centuries. For just $24, you get more than a simple walk — you get a narrative packed with tales of plagues, executions, and heroism. A possible snag is the relatively short duration, which means some details might feel rushed if you’re eager for a deep dive into every site. However, if you’re interested in a glimpse of London’s grisliest past with lively storytelling, this tour is perfect.

It’s ideal for travelers who love history, enjoy walking tours, or simply want to explore London’s hidden corners. Families over 12, history aficionados, or anyone wanting an atmospheric experience will find this tour a memorable addition to their London adventures.

Good To Know

• Authentic Atmosphere: Walk through streets largely unchanged for hundreds of years.
• Rich Stories: Guides share detailed tales of dark events and heroic moments.
• Historical Highlights: Discover sites like ancient churchyards, Roman ruins, and memorials.
• Value for Money: At $24.25, it offers a packed, atmospheric experience.
• Short and Sweet: 1.5 hours makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Dark Side of London

London’s history isn’t all royal palaces and posh tea. This tour specifically reveals the city’s grimmer, blood-stained past. It’s a journey through a city that has seen black death pits, executions, and bombed-out churches, making it a captivating experience for those eager to see beyond the typical tourist spots.

A Walk Through Medieval Streets and Hidden Corners

Starting at Barbican, the tour immediately immerses you in the gritty atmosphere of old London. The area is a blend of modern architecture and remnants of the past that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different time. From there, your guide will lead you into Charterhouse Square, a peaceful park that once served as London’s plague dumping ground. It’s a stark reminder that the city’s beauty often overlays a brutal history.

Guides like Pepe and Rosie have garnered glowing reviews for their depth of knowledge and lively storytelling. These guides not only describe the sites but also relate intriguing anecdotes, making the history more vivid. As one reviewer notes, Rosie “gave us in-depth information about London’s history and made the old times come alive again.” Their enthusiasm makes the stories of black death, medieval jousts, and executions feel immediate.

The Gritty History of Execution Sites

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Smithfield, once London’s primary execution site where notorious figures like William Wallace met their ends. Standing near the place where justice was often brutal, you’ll feel the weight of centuries of violence and political upheaval. The guide will describe the sights and sounds of those dark days, helping you imagine the screams and terror that once filled the air.

Ancient Churches and War-Torn Ruins

The tour also takes you inside St. Bartholomew the Great, a medieval church used in movies such as Four Weddings & A Funeral. Its tranquil interior contrasts sharply with its bloody history. You’ll also pass a church shell damaged in the Blitz, a stark symbol of London’s resilience. As one reviewer pointed out, the guide’s “knowledge and delivery made the tour very entertaining,” especially when describing London’s wartime scars.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Roman and Medieval Remnants

No walk through London’s dark past would be complete without glimpsing the Roman amphitheatre perimeter. While you won’t be standing inside, locating its remains adds a fascinating layer to your understanding of London’s ancient roots. The tour visits parks and ruins that still echo stories from over 2,000 years ago, making it a treat for history lovers.

Touching Memorials and Guts & Gore

Scattered along the route are touching memorials, such as one to heroic self-sacrifice, providing moments of reflection amid the grisly tales. The experience balances chilling stories with poignant tributes, giving visitors a well-rounded view of London’s complex past.

What You Can Expect

This tour is designed to give a condensed but immersive look into London’s darker history. Starting from Barbican, the journey moves through streets that seem frozen in time, with much of their medieval character preserved. You’ll walk at a steady pace, with stops at key sites, and hear stories that will make history feel alive.

The tour is mostly outside, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s wheelchair accessible, which is great news for those with mobility needs. The group size tends to be small to medium, allowing for personal interaction and detailed storytelling. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for further exploration or a quick coffee afterward.

Highlights of this Tour

• The medieval churchyard where centuries-old graves are silent witnesses to London’s past.
• Discovering a hidden memorial to self-sacrifice, adding a human touch to the gruesome history.
• Standing at execution sites where history’s most notorious figures faced their fate.
• Spotting the Roman amphitheatre’s remains, connecting London to its ancient Roman origins.
• Visiting the shell of a church bombed in WWII, symbolizing resilience.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes as the walk covers uneven historic streets. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, which is perfect for a quick yet meaningful history fix. It’s suitable for anyone over 12, and guides are engaging and well-informed, making the stories accessible to all ages.

Authentic Experiences and Real Impressions

Based on reviews, guides like Jesse, Pepe, and Rosie excel at making history come alive. Guests praise their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to relate stories with humor and insight. For instance, one reviewer mentioned how Rosie’s lively narration provided insights not just into history but also into politics, architecture, and language.

Guests consistently appreciate the balance of information and storytelling. They also highlight the tour’s pace, describing it as “great” and “interesting,” with plenty of stops to soak in the surroundings. Many mention feeling like they’ve uncovered parts of London they never knew before, even if they are residents.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• It offers authentic sights that feel untouched by modern development.
• Guides bring history to life with engaging stories and detailed explanations.
• The price point is very reasonable for an experience packed with stories, sights, and atmosphere.
• The tour’s focus on dark history gives it a niche appeal, especially for those interested in London’s grimmer stories.

Final Thoughts

This Secret Old London Walking Tour delivers a well-rounded, atmospheric exploration of the city’s darker chapters. It’s a smart choice for anyone who loves history, enjoys storytelling, and wants to see some of London’s lesser-known sites. The mix of ancient ruins, medieval stories, and poignant memorials provides a layered perspective on London’s turbulent past.

The guides’ passion and knowledge elevate the experience, making it both educational and entertaining. Priced at around $24, it offers exceptional value, especially considering the depth of stories and sights covered in just 1.5 hours. If you’re after a memorable, authentic experience that goes beyond the usual tourist traps, this tour is a compelling option.

This tour is particularly suited for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone looking to add a touch of atmospheric adventure to their London trip. It’s also a fantastic way for residents to rediscover the city’s hidden, haunting corners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for anyone over 12 years old, making it a good choice for families with older kids interested in history.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable time commitment for a quick but meaningful sightseeing break.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more visitors to enjoy the experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins outside Barbican Underground Station and ends back at the same meeting point.

Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted, except guide dogs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking over historic streets and uneven surfaces.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a knowledgeable guide. Refreshments are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there different start times?
Yes, check availability for the specific starting times as they vary.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is in English.

To sum it up, the Secret Old London Walking Tour offers a fascinating peek into the city’s darker history, told through passionate guides in atmospheric surroundings. Perfect for history lovers and curious explorers alike, it combines storytelling, historic sights, and a touch of London’s gruesome past — all at a very reasonable price. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, this tour can add a hauntingly memorable layer to your London experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: