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Historic London Tours

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15 Best London History Tours in 2024 (ranked!)

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Ready to book the best London history tours?

You’ve come to the right place because I’m covering the top London history Tours here.

How do I know?

I’ve lived in England since 2012 and have explored far and wide, so I know that one of the best things to do in London for history buffs is book a tour and explore.

Only quality tours are included in this list so you know that every tour you book is worth your money and time.

Don’t want to read to the end of the article?

The best tour of London History is: Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of London’s Fiery History.   

It has 5 out of 5 stars with over 100 reviews, so you can’t go wrong!

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best London history tour is the Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings tour .

Click here to check prices and availability.

There are plenty of other London history tours to choose from, so let’s get right down to it.

In this list, you’ll find 15 of the top-rated London history tours so you know you’re making the right choice.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best London History Tours

1. roman ruins to blitz bombings: a walking tour of london’s fiery history : history tours in london.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 110+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Walking tour
• Small group tour 
• Learn obscure trivia

History buffs might think they already know everything about London’s history.

This tour will dive even deeper than you ever have!

Even the most learned historians will learn something new on this tour.

Learn about more than 2,000 years’ worth of history.

This well-rounded tour will teach you about the Roman ruins, the Blitz bombings, Charles Dickens, and Anne Boleyn. 

Because it’s a walking tour, you’ll get to see the attractions up close. This is so much better than hoping to get a window seat on a tour bus!

At each of the 9 stops, you’ll be able to snap a picture and learn something interesting.

2. Natural History Museum London – Private Guided Museum Tour : history walking tours in London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 79+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Guided Museum Tour
• Tour Guide Exclusively For You
• Duration 2 hours
• Wheelchair Friendly

If you’re traveling with kids, consider booking this tour . They will have so much fun learning about history and you’ll also learn a lot!

While you can explore the museum on your own, there are benefits to hiring a guide.

They’ll tell you the highlights of each exhibit so you don’t have to read everything. This is especially great if you have kids running around.

He’ll also help you get through the museum efficiently.

Otherwise, you might spend all day there and glean the same amount of information.

3. The Authentic British Food and History Tour (Try many British Foods) : London history walks

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 24+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Alcoholic Beverages
• Coffee or Tea

Calling all foodies! If you want to taste the best of Britain while learning about its history, book this tour now .

This small group tour will bring you to the best versions of classic British grub.

While you’re trying the iconic food, you’ll also learn the history of Britain and its food.

You won’t have enough time to eat at all the good restaurants in the area.

Fortunately, the tour guide will give you plenty of recommendations for the rest of your trip!

You’ll walk by many historic landmarks but will spend most of your time at the Borough Market.

This is where you will find the best food in the city.

4. London Witches and History Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 23+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  75 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Costumed ‘in-character’ guide
• Harry Potter trivia

On this walking tour , you’ll learn about the witchy history of London.

Your knowledgeable guide will also be dressed in costume.

This is a good sign that they know how to have fun and will make sure everybody in the tour group is having a blast!

The guide will teach you a lot about history and magic.

You’ll especially learn about the witch trials and hauntings of London’s past. Which iconic landmarks have a spooky history?

And Harry Potter fans will be excited to catch a glimpse of some filming sites.

5. Kid-Friendly Natural History Museum & Dinosaurs Private Guided Tour in London : historic London walks

⭐️  RATING:  2.5 out of 5 Stars, 8+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  50 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Blue Badge guide
• Professional art historian guide
• Professional Kid-Friendly Guide
• Private tour

If you love history and have young kids, this is a good tour for you. The kids will have a blast and learn so much!

They won’t complain about being bored a single time.

But just because it’s for kids doesn’t mean you won’t learn anything.

Even history buffs will learn something new on this tour!

The guide knows the best parts of the museum.

This means that you won’t miss anything important. He’ll also be able to summarize all the important information so you don’t have to read every word on every sign.

6. History of London Photography Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 8+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Led by a professional photographer
• Amazing photo opportunities
• Professional photography advice
• Fascinating historical facts

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves to take gorgeous photos wherever you go, then you’ll love this tour .

Not only will you have plenty of photo ops, you’ll learn the best tips for capturing those pictures.

With 10 stops, you’ll see the quintessential corners of London.

You’ll learn some interesting tidbits about the area’s history.

And you’ll take astonishing photos that will look like they belong on a magazine cover!

Whether you love looking at photographs of the city or would rather be behind the lens, you’ll enjoy this tour.

And you’ll really love showing off the pictures to your friends when you get home!

7. The Beatles Magical History Black Taxi Tour London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 29+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   4-5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private Transportation in a Licensed London Black Taxi
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Bottled water
• Parking Fees

Beatles fans will love this tour !

Music lovers in general will be able to enjoy learning the history revolving around this iconic band.

You’ll follow in the footsteps of these legendary musicians and learn about their history.

Spend some time at Abbey Road Studios and immerse yourself in music history.

You’ll even have a chance to get your picture taken while walking across the street!

Relive the ‘60s at Carnaby Street. See where Beatlemania was born at the London Palladium.

And visit 3 Savile Row where you can discover so much Beatles memorabilia at the place where they held their last live show.

8. Pub Tour London (Drinking History)

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-2 hours| ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Alcoholic beverages
• Small group
• London history

This tour is limited to 6 people so you’ll be able to bond with the others as you drink your way through London!

You’ll explore London and even see a lot of parts that you might have missed. You’ll also learn a little bit about the history everywhere you go!

The highlight of this tour is Fleet Street.

Home to several historic pubs, you’ll learn about their history and their brews.

Be sure to enjoy a drink in the same places as Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and Samuel Johnson.

9. The Natural History Museum of London: Private Half-Day Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional guide
• Reserved entrance time
• Personalized experience

The Natural History Museum in London is a must-see attraction!

It’s often considered the most important center for the research of natural history and sciences.

This museum is huge and can be hard to get through.

That’s why you should hire a guide to make sure you see all the important parts!

They can also summarize the information so that you can get the highlights without reading every single sign.

Since it’s a private tour, it can be personalized to your preferences.

Spend more time on your favorite exhibits and less time on those that you don’t find interesting.

10.   London’s Hidden Gems and Secret History Private Guided Tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3-4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Hotel pickup and drop-off

If you want to see parts of London that only the locals know about, go on this tour .

You’ll see landmarks that you’ve probably never even heard about before.

But by the end of the tour, you’ll know the interesting history behind each of these stops! 

The local guide will help you have an enjoyable tour and give you tips for the rest of your trip.

He’ll bring you on a route that you probably never would’ve found on your own.

He’ll also share all the inside information that even a lot of locals don’t know!

11. Brixton History and Culture Private Walking Tour : historical tours in London

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 – 2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Local guide
• Cultural history
• Quintessential locations

If you love exploring the cultural scene, you’ll love Brixton.

This is the most diverse area of London.

Brixton is home to several types of international cuisine.

This neighborhood has a rich history of immigrants settling in.

You’ll also find a variety of art!

With 5 main stops, this tour will cover the main attractions of Brixton.

You’ll have a deeper appreciation for many of the cultures in this world.

You’ll also see the results of what happens when people come from all over the world to live in the same area.

12. World War II History in London Private Guided Tour : history tours London

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-7 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private Walking Tour of London WWII Sights 
• 5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language
• Skip-the-line tickets to the Churchill War Rooms (only in 4 and 7-hour options)
• Free admission to the Imperial War Museum (only in 7-hour option)

World War II buffs will enjoy this tour . Explore the main WW2 sites of London on this tour.

You can choose a 2-hour, 4-hour, or 7-hour option depending on how much you want to see!

The tour begins at Waterloo Place and includes a visit to Royal Naval Division War Memorial and the Palace of Westminster.

If you choose a longer tour, you will get to visit the Churchill War Rooms.

On the longest tour, you’ll also have admission to the Imperial War Museum.

If you have all day, this is the best way to learn about the Second World War! If you only have a few hours, you’ll still be able to learn a lot!

13. London History Taxi Tours

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 21+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private transportation
• London History tour
• Several photo ops

Your knowledgeable tour guide will know his way around the city and be able to get you everywhere safely and efficiently.

He’ll pass by the most iconic London landmarks so you’ll have a chance to see everything on your bucket list!

This private tour is personalizable and flexible.

You’ll be able to adjust the itinerary to spend more or less time at different locations since there won’t be a ton of other tourists!

You’ll stop at 6 places, including Mayfair, Southwark, and the Financial Centre of London and the UK.

14. Unique Mayfair Lifestyle and History Walk – Private Custom Tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private, personalized itinerary
• Expert Local Guide
• Additional suggestions for the rest of your stay

Mayfair is a quite trendy part of London. Experience the architecture. Enjoy the fashion scene. Explore hidden passages.

Not only will you visit art galleries and designer stores.

You’ll also learn about their history on this tour .

Visit Mayfair, Savile Row, and Bond Street.

Learn what makes them so iconic in the London art scene!

Stop by St. James’ Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and Fortnum & Mason. See how they are still influencing modern-day art.

You’ll have a chance to do some shopping and taste some tea.

You’ll also get to bond with other tourists who have similar mindsets as you.

15. 2-Hour Private LGBTQ+ History Tour of London with a Licensed Guide

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private Tour
• Professional qualified guide
• Tour of Bloomsbury
• London’s LGBTQ history and culture

This private tour accommodates up to 15 people who are excited to learn about LGBTQ history in London.

Explore the Bloomsbury district as you learn about the artists, writers, and philosophers who played a big role in shaping London’s LGBTQ community.

Your guide will share a wealth of information, including over 300 years’ worth of LGBTQ history.

Instead of the history lessons you’ve learned before, you’ll learn about history from a minority’s perspective.

This will help to shape your ideas about everything you know!

You’ll even learn some Polari, a secret gay language in London.

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The Best History Tours of London

London - the capital city of England, is synonymous with busy metropolitan life. Full of skyscrapers, buses and a lot of people, this modern city has a lot to offer. And if you’re into 21st-century living then you’ll definitely find it here; but tours of London can and do include a lot of history! A lot has happened since the capital was first established, and there are plenty of London tours that showcase events and places that will satisfy the curiosity of even the biggest history-lovers. Here are a few of our favorites…

WWII Westminster Secrets – Churchill’s War Rooms and Museum Tour

A London tour like no other, explore a different side to the city as you embark on a walking tour of the Westminster area with WWII in mind. You’ll pass iconic sites such as Big Ben, 10 Downing Street, Westminster Abbey and more, while your expert English-speaking guide regales you with stories about how these buildings and spaces were used during the war effort. See the Cenotaph National War Memorial too, which really brings these harrowing events home.

You will also head underground, beneath the city streets and into the wartime bunker where Sir Winston Churchill spent many a day and night. It will feel like stepping back in time to 1945, as the bunker remains unchanged save for the interactive exhibits that have been added to make your visit all the more interesting. If you are interested in war secrets, international history and how London impacted (and was impacted by) the war, then this tour is perfect for you.

The tour lasts for 2.5 hours and runs multiple times a week. You will be in groups of 20 or less, and your guide will always be on hand to answer any questions you may have! If you are a history lover planning to visit London, don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to see such important historical sites.

Interior Tour of Buckingham with Royal Walking Tour & Afternoon Tea

If you are interested in the royal family and their colorful history, then this tour could not be better suited to you. Built in the 1700s, Buckingham Palace is absolutely steeped in history and it still oozes charm today; originally a large townhouse built for the Duke of Buckingham, it was acquired by King George III in 1761 for Queen Charlotte. Thus, it became known as The Queen’s House, and was gradually extended. Structural additions continued to be made throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, too.

This tour includes a royal walking tour to get you in the mood for visiting the palace. It’ll be a royally good day for sure as you enter the opulent palace, usually closed to members of the public, to explore the royal home of Queen Elizabeth II. Your tour will conclude with a traditional afternoon tea for a quintessentially British day out. Your English-speaking expert guide will be at your side to answer any questions you may have about the royals, the palace or the finger sandwiches. The tour is four hours long, includes skip-the-line entry and includes visiting the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace. This tour runs between July and September, while the Queen is vacationing at one of her other royal residences. Availability is limited so be sure to book early to avoid missing out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tower of London and Private Audience with Authentic Beefeater Guard

The Tower of London is one of England’s most famous locations, and it has an almost unparalleled history. Guarded by Beefeaters (officially known as the Yeomen Warders of Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London), it is absolutely iconic. The guards are ceremonial, and they are all retired members of the armed services. You will likely recognize their dark blue and red uniforms, and they are somewhat synonymous with London as a whole.

This is one of the best tours in London , starting early so you've got the whole day ahead of you and offering something completely unique: the chance to chat to and take pictures with one of the Beefeaters! This is a completely exclusive tour, and one that will make you the envy of fellow travelers with an interest in British history. See the crown jewels and the White Tower (another historical treat, as this is where the Princes in the Tower were held before being murdered by their uncle - allegedly) then have the rest of the day to yourself, free to explore the Tower of London at length before heading off to see what else the city has to offer.

In groups of 30 or less, meet a real Beefeater and gain some in-depth knowledge from both them and your expert English-speaking tour guide. Tour departure times vary, and the tour lasts for one hour and fifteen minutes. A favorite London city tour amongst history buffs, definitely!

Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

There are some things that are on most travelers’ bucket lists and seeing the Changing of the Guard is definitely one them. It is an iconic ceremony where one batch of soldiers is replaced with another batch in a formal manner; the red jackets and tall black hats epitomize London itself in some ways!

Another iconic part of London is Westminster Abbey; this is somewhere that has seen multiple coronations, royal weddings and more. It is also the resting place of poets, authors, historical figures and monarchs from various centuries. The Abbey is practically dripping in history, and visiting is an absolute must if you’re a history lover in London!

In groups of 25 or less, explore Westminster Abbey and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, stroll through St. James’s Park and then, at the end, drink in the sight of Buckingham Palace. You will have an expert English-speaking tour guide with you, and you’ll be able to skip the line at the Abbey.

The city has a very rich history, and you can do plenty of historical sightseeing. London is one of the greatest cities in the world, and there is just so much to see and do; from these London city tours to simply walking through the streets looking out for iconic monuments, you’ll be immersed in world-shaping history while vacationing here!

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9 Tips for Visiting London’s Harry Potter Studio Tour

Art-lovers guide to rome catacombs, get to know city wonders.

A City Wonders tour is the product of meticulous research, detailed planning, and a passion for providing customers with travel experiences they will cherish forever.

With City Wonders it's not just facts, our passionate guides tell you the stories that bring the sights to life.

• All of our guides are experts in their field
• We only hire fluent English-speakers so nothing is ever lost in translation
• We focus on the little details and anecdotes that make City Wonders so special

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Top London Tours for History Lovers

If you’re fascinated by London’s diverse and captivating history, you’re in for a treat. London offers a plethora of tours tailored to satisfy all historical cravings. From immersive architectural walking tours and enlightening river cruises showcasing the African history of the city to mouthwatering food tours in traditional London pubs, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our guide to top London tours for history lovers.

(WA= Wheelchair Accessible)

Image Courtesy of Get Your Guide

Explore London’s brutalist buildings

First, on our list of London tours for history lovers, you will discover some of London’s most iconic Brutalist landmarks. Explore this striking and dramatic architectural style prevalent throughout the 60’s and 70’s on this Brutalist Architecture and History Walking Tour , led by a knowledgeable guide, who will take you through the central neighbourhoods of London, providing insights into the history of post-war architecture. Chat about Modernist monumental architecture with like-minded people, discussing all about the cultural, social, and environmental impact it has had on the city. Along the way, you’ll visit legendary Brutalist buildings, like the Institute of Education and the National Theatre, delving deeper into the ongoing debate surrounding their future use.

London: Brutalist Architecture & History Walking Tour | Russell Square 

Image Courtesy of Walks

See Churchill’s legendary headquarters

This Churchill War Rooms tour dives deep into the legacy of Winston Churchill’s leadership during World War II, shaping the world as we know it today. Explore Churchill’s legendary underground headquarters, where he made some of the most critical decisions ever alongside his team, which ultimately led to winning the war. Head beneath the streets of London to reimagine how life would’ve been in these historic spaces all those years ago. On city level, your guide will lead you to Churchill’s frequent hangouts and other vital locations that bear witness to the enduring impact of WWII on the city of London, telling historical facts and stories along the way.

Life of Churchill and World War II: London Walking Tour with War Rooms | Westminster 

Image Courtesy of Black History Walks

Learn about the Black history of London

Black History Walks deserve a top spot on our list of London tours for history lovers, offering a range of tours where you can get to know all about the rich Black history of London. All tours are led by expert guides (usually Tony, the founder), covering topics spanning more than 3500 years and 15 different areas, including Regents Canal, St. Paul’s, Mayfair, Soho and more. Perhaps you want to learn about the Black performers and productions that have graced the stages of London’s West End theatres, or you’d rather explore the Black presence in the renowned Wallace Collection; Black History Tours likely has you covered. Plus, it’s not just walking tours they offer; they also host a range of bus and river tours.

Black History Walks | Central London

Explore the history of London’s pubs

London’s pubs have consistently played a key role in the history and heritage of the city ever since its earliest days, so it’s only fitting we include a pub tour on this list of London tours for history lovers. With around 3,540 pubs scattered throughout the city, it can be overwhelming to know which ones are even worth visiting. That’s where this Food Tour of London’s Historic Pubs comes in handy, where you’ll get to join a local guide on a leisurely walk through the historic City of London, hopping from charming pubs serving traditional pub fare and locations that once held the Crown Jewels, as well as establishments once frequented by literary legends. Enjoy traditional pub fare and drinks at each stop as you hear intriguing stories and insights about London unfolding with every step.

Tastes, Tales & Traditional Ales: Food Tour of London’s Historic Pubs | Holborn

Get to know the Jewish history of East London

East London has a long and interesting Jewish heritage, and the best way to explore it is alongside an expert guide on a private Jewish History Tour . See the sites where the Jewish community thrived, starting with the Tower of London, which once served as a refuge and a place of imprisonment for Jews during the Anglo-Jewry expulsion. Follow your guide as you visit synagogues, soup kitchens, Yiddish theatres, and kosher shops that served London’s Jewish immigrants, particularly in the 19th-20th century, exploring areas where many Jews lived and worked throughout history. You can either opt for the two-hour tour, where you’ll hear stories and visit important Jewish sites, or the four-hour tour, where you’ll get to delve deeper into the tragedy of the Holocaust, including a visit to the Imperial War Museum and its Holocaust Galleries.

Jewish History Tour | Tower Hill | WA

Image Courtesy of Women of London

Retrace the footsteps of the women of Bloomsbury

On this Women of Bloomsbury walking tour , you’ll discover the magic of Bloomsbury, a neighbourhood that has long attracted London’s cultural enthusiasts, intellectuals, artists, and writers. The tour will delve into the lives and legacies of remarkable women who have left their mark on history within this area, including following in the footsteps of celebrated writer Virginia Woolf, brave World War Two spy Noor Inayat Khan, influential abolitionist Mary Prince, pioneering dentist Lilian Lindsay, and numerous other inspiring figures. Discover their stories, accomplishments, and challenges as you traverse the streets where they once walked with your guide from Women of London, a women’s history walking tour company who we love working with.

Women of Bloomsbury | Covent Garden | WA

Image Courtesy of Rebel Tours

Take a trip back in time on a Covent Garden walking tour

Uncover the captivating tales of London’s most eccentric and colourful personalities on this Misfits of Covent Garden walking tour , where you’ll take a trip back in time, learning all about the colourful characters that used to haunt the area. From its humble origins as Westminster Abbey’s vegetable garden, Covent Garden transformed into a bustling market, a thriving theatre district, the epicentre of vice and poverty, and even a slum that left a lasting impression on the renowned Charles Dickens. The tour is operated by female-founded Rebel Tours, a friendly bunch of professional tour guides, historians, and rebels who aim to tell stories in a refreshing and immersive way where you are an active part of the group rather than a passive tourist.

Misfits of Covent Garden | Covent Garden | WA

Get to know London’s rock ‘n’ roll history

Last on our list of London tours for history lovers is this London Rock Music Tour , which will take you on a nostalgic journey through London’s iconic rock scene, through the vibrant neighbourhoods of Soho, Camden Town, Muswell Hill, Archway, and Islington, all playing an integral role in the city’s rich rock ‘n’ roll history. Explore the legendary gig venues and former recording studios that hosted The Beatles, and visit the residences of Ringo Starr and Jimmy Page. Retrace the footsteps of rock legends Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Queen, and other influential musicians as you uncover their old hangouts and key locations that played a pivotal role in their lives. See where Amy Winehouse spent most of her time in Camden, cross the renowned Abbey Road crossing to recreate the iconic Beatles album cover, and dive head first into the swinging ’60s scene in Chelsea, all with your enthusiastic guide on hand to tell you all about the old school rock ‘n’ roll days.

London: Rock ‘n’ Roll History Tour | Piccadilly Circus

More tours we think you’ll love:

• Top Things to do in London for Harry Potter Fans
• Top Skip-The-Line and Private London Tours and Experiences
• Top London Tours and Experiences for Music Lovers

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Jessica Dellow

Jessica Dellow is an East Londoner who loves to travel the world and eat her way around the city. When she's not eating, cooking or hanging out in the local pub, you’ll probably find her walking one of her BorrowMyDoggy dogs in Victoria Park with a coffee in hand.

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Guided walking tours in The City of London

Walking tours in the City of London

Two thousand years ago the Romans built the first settlement here, and The City of London has been making history ever since. Saxons and Vikings, Normans, Tudors, the English Civil War, all have left their mark. One of the world’s greatest cities, and the best way to see it is by walking around.

The area inside the original Roman walls which is often known as “The Square Mile” or simply “The City” is the UK’s main centre for business and finance. This is where you’ll find the Bank of England, the Stock Exchange and many of London’s great institutions. It’s a dynamic modern city, with cutting edge architecture being carefully positioned around ancient historical buildings and the churches of Sir Christopher Wren. Around every corner, down every winding alley, is a story or historical character waiting to be discovered. Tales of fire, plague, treachery and death, all have their place here as well as joyful pageantry and eccentric ceremonies.

Your Guide to Walking Tours in the City of London

These walking tours are here to help you discover the City of London’s rich history. Join one of the public guided walks and tours. Or if you want to see something specific you can contact me and arrange a bespoke private tour for yourself. Bring your friends, family or colleagues. Come and see what The City of London has to offer.

Posted on 21st October 2023 Categories London History

By: Author Alastair Reid Schanche

Discover the Capital’s Incredible Past On Self-Guided History Walking Tour of London

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A humungous history tour of London where all you’ll need is a healthy curiosity and a good pair of shoes.

Lace up your boots, history buffs. We’re about to take you on a walk of London’s long and winding history. Today you’ll see slices of London dating right back to the city’s true inception under the Romans, hear tales of grizzly deaths in the Middle Ages, adventure and vice. 

Best of all, it’s totally free and self-guided. You can pick your own pace and be your own tour guide. 

We’ve included information about the spots you’re visiting to fill out a picture of London throughout the ages. There are a few spots you might want to nip into along the way, The Tower of London and The Golden Hinde, or perhaps the art gallery and hidden Roman amphitheatre at the Guildhall but at the end of the day, you’re the boss. 

You can stop along the way for food or a break as you like, you’ll have plenty of options. If you’re walking during the week, Leadenhall Market has loads to offer. Otherwise you could hold on to near the end of the tour and hit Borough Market where you’ll find things open at the weekend too. 

But enough talk! Let’s get to it…

Practical Information about the Historical Walking Tour of London

London’s Roman Wall, Barbican

Shakespeare’s Globe, The Southbank

Distance 

8km or just under 5 miles. 

About two hours of walking, plus time for any of the attractions you want to see and maybe a break for lunch. We’d plan for around 4-5 hours but it can be done faster if you want. 

Difficulty of Tour

Easy to middling. There’s a lot of walking and some stairs but on the whole no rough terrain or major obstacles. 

Admission Fees

• The Tower of London: £33.60
• The Golden Hinde: £6.00

Places Visited on the Tour

• London’s Roman Wall
• The Guildhall
• Monument 
• Leadenhall Market
• All Hallows by the Tower
• The Tower of London 
• Tower Bridge 
• The Golden Hinde
• Winchester Palace
• Shakespeare’s Globe 

Accessibility

The tour is very accessible, you won’t be required to climb any madly steep hills or navigate any rough terrain, though it does require a lot of walking. 

If that’s not your cup of tea then feel free to pick the route up anywhere you like. Cutting out the section between Tower Bridge and The Golden Hinde will save you a lot of walking. 

If you need breaks you’ll be able to find plenty of places for food and drinks along the way as the tour snakes through central London which is full of pubs, cafes and restaurants.  

Stops on the History Tour of London

Stop one – london’s roman wall .

We’ll start our tour where the history of London really begins in earnest: with the Romans. London owes much to these conquerors from the Italian peninsula, not least its name. The word London comes from the Latin Londinium, which is what the Romans would have called this city when they came here around 2000 years ago. 

Oh and by the way, when they came here they built the place. Much of what is old and important about The City of London (AKA The Square Mile) was laid out in the Roman era, including the wall you’re looking at. 

The walls they built still quite accurately mark where the City of London ends and the rest of London begins. They also picked the location for London Bridge and a very important civic centre we’re visiting next. 

→→ →→ 7 minute walk from the Roman Wall to the Guildhall. 

Walk west on St Alphage Garden towards Wood St. Turn left onto Wood St. Turn left after about 50 metres. Turn right towards Basinghall St and take the stairs after, about 50m turn left towards Basinghall St. 

Stop Two – The Guildhall 

This impressive building is The Guildhall. It’s the administrative centre of The City of London (not to be confused with Greater London) and the home of The City of London Corporation, stewards of the oldest continuous democracy in the world. 

The site was passed down through the many generations of London’s rulers. It began life as an amphitheatre in the Roman Era, was first used as an administrative site by the Saxons and has continued in that function for over a thousand years. 

The Great Hall dates back to 1440 and is truly stunning, and the original Roman amphitheatre’s foundations can be seen in the basement. Other than visiting the latter and the stunning collection of art at the Guildhall Art Gallery, you can’t just enter and wander about. You can book yourself on a tour though. Read all about that in the guide below… 

Read More: The History of The Guildhall: The HQ of the World’s Oldest Democracy

→→ →→ 12 minute walk from Guildhall to Monument

Walk south on Basinghall St towards Masons Ave. Turn left onto Gresham St and continue onto Lothbury. Turn right onto Princes Stand then left onto Threadneedle St and continue onto King William St and follow it to Monument St.

Stop Three – Monument

Now you’re at Monument. This needle commemorates the history of the Great Fire of London. You might expect it to be a dour reminder of the people who lost their lives, and in some way it does remember them – but in truth, most people got away from the flames and in total only six people died. 

Monument is mostly about the devastation it wreaked upon those that survived, large portions of London being burnt to the ground. It’s also a hopeful reminder of the ability to rebuild and get back on your feet. 

Great architect of his day, Sir Christopher Wren , designed the needle. It was completed in 1667.  It stands 202 feet away from the place where the fire began on Pudding Lane. 

→→ →→ 6 minute walk from Monument to Leadenhall Market

Walk north on Fish St Hill towards Eastcheap, take the zebra crossing and continue onto Gracechurch St. Follow it until you see Bull’s Head Passage about 70m on your right. Take the passage and turn left onto Lime St Passage. Leadenhall Market will be in front of you. 

Stop Four – Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market gives us another opportunity to bring up the Romans. Yes, more of those guys (just in case you didn’t believe us about how much of an impact they made on London).

They first set up a bazaar here two millennia ago. That tradition has lived on to the present day, though the way it looks (and the things on sale) will have changed a lot. The market as we now know it was officially established in 1321. 

Legendary mayor Dick Whittington gets his name into these annals of history in 1402 by purchasing the market for the City of London Corporation (the folks who run the City of London from the Guildhall) making it into even more of a hub of commerce. 

The current style dates to the Victorian era and was designed by Horace Jones. In more recent history it was used as the exterior shot for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. 

While you’re here, this might be a good spot for a bit of lunch or a break. You’ll have heaps of spots to choose from, take your pick. Our fav would be Old Tom’s Bar but, like many of these Leadenhall Market eateries, it’s only open Monday – Friday.

→→ →→ 9 minute walk to All Hallows by the Tower

Walk back the way you came but don’t Bull’s Head Passage, follow the road about 60m to Fenchurch St. Walk the same distance again and turn right onto Rood Ln. Turn left onto Eastcheap and continue onto Great Tower St 436. 

Stop Five – All Hallows by the Tower

The City of London is a place of many churches . Some of them are truly ancient, or at least have ancient roots. All Hallows by the Tower is so old that no one really knows its origins. 

The first record of it comes from a mysterious listing in the Doomsday Book (written in 1086) to the property of Barking Abbey being ‘28 houses and half a church’. That half a church is said to be All Hallows. 

The church survived the Great Fire of London, and its connection to this and one of our favourite London characters, Samuel Pepys , is why we love it so much. Pepys writes in his diaries – a must-read for any London history fan – that he watched the fire raging through his beloved city from All Hallows’ spire. Here are his words:

“I up to the top of Barking steeple, and there saw the saddest sight of desolation that I ever saw; every where great fires, oyle-cellars, and brimstone, and other things burning…  … as far as I could see it”

→→ →→ 3 minute walk to The Tower of London

Follow Gloucester Ct to the end, turn right and then left. You can’t miss it. 

Stop Six – The Tower of London 

A London location that needs no introduction, The Tower of London has been the stage for many of the city, and the country’s great historical moments. It’s played prison to dissidents and rouges from Guy Fawkes to the Kray Twins. 

Many have lost their lives in the execution chambers here but none are probably more iconic than Anne Boleyn, wife (or should we say ex-wife) of Henry VIII. 

The site as a defensive position on the riverside dates back to the Normans. William the Conqueror built a stone tower here in the 1070s to secure his power over the city. 

The tower you’re looking at is much more recent than that but is still home to some very long-standing traditions. The Ceremony of the Keys for one, is a key handover ritual that’s been performed every day for the past 700 years. 

Because we know you’re wondering, the last person to be executed here was Josef Jakobs. The year was 1941 and he’d been found guilty of spying for Germany and executed by firing squad. 

→→ →→ 5 minute walk from the tower of London to Tower Bridge. Follow the river east and take the stairs under the bridge to reach crossing level. Again, you can’t miss it. 

Stop Seven – Tower Bridge 

It’s now time to head to the south side of the river. We’re going to do that by crossing London’s most iconic bridge. Yep, it’s Tower Bridge. 

Tower Bridge was finished in 1894 and was actually designed by a fella that’s come up in our tour already (no, he’s not a Roman this time) – it’s Horace Jones, the mind behind Leadenhall Market. Over 50 designs were submitted for the bridge but it was his that won out.

The bridge famously opens in the middle to allow boats to pass. The span of the bridge is 800 metres and the two towers that support it are 65 metres tall each. 

By crossing the bridge you’re becoming one of the 40,000 crossings made on average every day. 

→→ →→ 15 minute walk from Tower Bridge to The Golden Hinde

Follow the river west along Queen’s Walk. When it comes to an end take the stairs onto Tooley St and cross at the foot of London Bridge to take the stairs back down to the riverside. Follow Montague Cl to Cathedral St where you take a sharp right and follow Cathedral St 50m to The Golden Hinde.

Stop Eight – The Golden Hinde

Your walk along the riverfront should lead you past a pretty stunning galleon. That would be The Golden Hinde , or more accurately a replica of it. 

The Golden Hinde was the ship that Sir Francis Drake made his circumnavigation of the globe in. His trip was one of the greatest (and most questionable adventures) in British history. It was essentially a state-sponsored pirate raid. 

Drake’s mission was to steal as much Spanish gold as he could get his hands on and bring it back to England. He was so successful on the Pacific coast of South America he couldn’t return the way he came and was forced to circle the globe to get home. 

His haul made him and Queen Elizabeth enormously rich. From one Spanish ship alone he took the equivalent of £480m in today’s money… 

This boat was built from years of research on the plans and design of Drake’s ship. It was finished in the 70s, making its own circumnavigation of the globe from ‘74 – ‘79. 

→→ →→ 1 minute walk to Winchester Palace. 

You basically need to keep walking west about 30 seconds, no longer than a minute. You’ll see the ruins of Winchester Palace on your left. 

Stop Nine – Winchester Palace

Still with us? You’ve put in quite a stretch today. We’re nearly at the end of our tour. The penultimate stop is Winchester Palace . The Palace is certainly not in its former glory. All you’ll be able to see here now is some ruins of what was once the grand home of The Bishop of Winchester.

It was built in the 12th century and the section that you can see standing survives from that time. It would have once been part of the Great Hall. The property itself would have encompassed around ten acres of land. 

So what was the Bishop of Winchester up to in London? Back in the day, the bishops were often required to be in the capital on important business. Palaces like this would have been their city residences – looks like these guys weren’t fans of the vow of poverty…

These residencies would have been outside of the jurisdiction of London law, known as Liberties. The one you’re standing in now was known as the Liberty of the Clink and has a bit of a nefarious past. That’s because one of the bishops in the Middle Ages took advantage of his immunity to turn the neighbourhood into a red-light district. 

The women who worked the streets here became known as the Winchester Geese, and it’s widely believed that this is where we get the term ‘goosebumps’, though it meant something quite different back then. 

→→ →→ 7 minute walk from Winchester Palace to Shakespeare’s Globe. 

Walk west on Clink St towards Stoney St for 160m. Turn left onto Bank End and after 40m turn right onto Park St. Then shortly after turn right onto New Globe Walk. You’ll see the Globe in front of you. 

Stop Ten – Shakespeare’s Globe 

If there’s any historical location to top the Tower of London for the most iconic award on our tour, it’s probably got to be our last stop, Shakespeare’s Globe. 

This is a faithful reconstruction of the original theatre that The Bad would have had his plays performed. It’s only slightly off from the original location, the original having burnt down in 1613 after a pyrotechnical mishap set fire to the roof. 

This iteration is known as Shakespeare’s Globe and they put on some fantastic performances of Shakespeare’s work. One of our favourite things to do in London is grab a cheap standing ticket and experience the plays just like the common folk would have back in Old Bill’s day (without all the rotten tomato throwing of course). 

Read More: 14 Interesting Facts About the Globe Theatre We’ll Bet You Never Knew

Historical London Walking Tour Practical Tips and Map

• Make sure you wear comfortable shoes. You will want them for this as you’re going to be on your feet a lot. 
• You’ll be walking past heaps of cafes, pubs and restaurants so feel free to hop off the walk at any point and grab some food. If you make it all the way to Tower Bridge without having eaten, head to Borough Market . It’s very near The Golden Hinde and has so many great options for food. 

Historical London Walking Tour: Map

More Self-Guided Walking Tours of London

• The Ultimate Self-Guided Harry Potter Walking Tour of London
• The Ultimate Self-Guided Literary Walking Tour of London
• The Ultimate Self-Guided Charles Dickens Walking Tour of London

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Lady’s 5 Historical Walks in London You’ll Love Taking

Today I want to share my top picks for historical walks in London with you. These self-guided London walking tours are great ways to get into the city’s past and discover the layers of heritage that make the UK capital special. If you love history, they’re perfect London walks for you to take to explore the city’s past from ancient times to modern ones. Read on for the routes, maps, photos, and videos.

Historical Walks in London

From Roman ruins in the City of London to Palladian residences in Greenwich, my self-guided historical walks in London will take you to some of the most iconic places in the city.

You’ll pass by big attractions like Westminster Abbey and lesser-known landmarks like the 12th-century Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great. Along the way, you’ll get a feel for London’s architectural history.

But it’s not all old stuff. London is a living city, and its streets and squares are ever-changing. Interspersed among the heritage buildings you’ll find colorful street art, vibrant markets, and great shops, restaurants, pubs, and cafes.

I hope you enjoy these London history tours as much as I’ve enjoyed creating them. My self-guided London walks are fun ways to see the UK capital and get some exercise while you’re at it.

You can read about more lovely walks in the book London’s Hidden Walks as well. You can get it on Amazon here . There are more ideas in my London walking books post, too.

1. City of London Walk

First on my list of historical walks in London is one in the City of London . This area has some of the richest history and most important heritage buildings in the UK capital.

This walk will transport you through past and present, wide squares and hidden courtyards, historic halls and centuries-old pubs.

Along the way you’ll see everything from the Tower of London to St Paul’s Cathedral and The Monument to the Great Fire of London.

This walk is ideal if you want to delve into London’s deepest roots. You can find the directions, map, photos, and video on my City of London walking tour blog post.

2. Greenwich Walk

Next on my list of historical London walking tours is Greenwich . This part of the city is known for its maritime history, royal residences, famous observatory, covered market, and great London views .

My self-guided London walk will take you from the River Thames to the Royal Observatory and through the markets and side streets.

Along the route you’ll take in everything from the Cutty Sark to the National Maritime Museum, Old Royal Naval College, and London skyline.

This walk is perfect if you like a mix of culture, shopping, and history. You can find the full route, map, photos, and video on my Greenwich walk blog post.

3. Spitalfields Walk

When it comes to east London history walks, my Spitalfields walk is a good choice. Spitalfields is one of the city’s most vibrant areas. Historic houses and buildings sit side-by-side with contemporary street art, markets, and pop-ups.

This London walk goes through the neighborhood’s colorful streets and hidden lanes. Along the way you’ll pass everything from 18th-century Huguenot silk weavers’ homes to pretty almshouses.

Sunday is the best day to be here, as the Sunday markets on and around Brick Lane are legendary. You can make a day of this walk if you take your time and explore them all.

This walk is perfect if you enjoy a mix of history and shopping. You can find the route, map, photos, and video on my Spitalfields walking tour blog post.

4. Westminster Walk

Next on my list of historical walks in London is one in Westminster . This area is home to a lot of big attractions, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.

My self-guided London walk will take you from Parliament Square to Smith Square and beyond. The route will guide you past historic highlights like the 19th-century Victoria Tower and the 14th-century Jewel Tower.

This walk is a great choice if you like London landmarks and hidden corners alike. You can find the route, map, and photos on my Westminster walk blog post.

5. Clerkenwell Walk

My fifth historical walk in London goes through Clerkenwell and the surrounding area. This part of the UK capital is full of heritage. It’s home to some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in London, too.

My self-guided London walking tour in Clerkenwell will take you through historic passageways, under stone archways, and down an alley with an old pub hidden in it.

As you go from Clerkenwell to Smithfield and Hatton Garden, you’ll pass everything from the 16th-century St Bartholomew’s Gatehouse to the 13th-century St Etheldreda’s Church.

You’ll also walk down Exmouth Market, one of the best foodie streets in London. It’s a great place to stop for a meal or drink along the way.

This London walk is just the thing if you like history and food in equal measure. You can find the route, map, photos, and video on my Clerkenwell walking tour blog post.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these self-guided London walking tours as much as I’ve enjoyed coming up with the routes and maps. Historic details are some of the best things about London, and these tours are a great way to to see them.

Beyond the walks, I’ve published a lot more about London’s history. From a blog post with a historic London travel itinerary to a guide to London architecture history , there’s plenty to delve into.

I have more self-guided historical London walks in the pipeline, too. They’ll all end up here and on my London walking map once I’ve published them. You can bookmark this page or pin it on Pinterest to see the new ones as I add them. Happy walking!

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4 Comments on Lady’s 5 Historical Walks in London You’ll Love Taking

Thank you so much for your tour. I wish London to preserve its historical attitude in spite of the modern temptations. The buildings (especially the less good-looking), their arrangement can lecture on the city’s history. Thank you so much. Greetings from Minsk, Belarus (between Russia and Poland)

You’re welcome! I’m glad you like London’s history.

It was wonderful taking this tour from the comfort of my couch. Being there in person would be even better, but right now I would have to use a wheelchair to do the walk. Thank you for making it so real!

You’re welcome!

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

30 of London’s Most Famous Historical Attractions

Londinium, the big smoke, the great wen: london has experienced its fair share of change over its 2000-year history. here's our pick of some of the british capital's most famous historic sites to visit today..

Lucy Davidson

07 sep 2021, @lucejuiceluce.

Founded by the Romans in 43AD, London initially became an important city in Roman Britain . Although little remains from this period, some ruins remain, including parts of the Roman walls and the remains of a Roman theatre. After the Romans departed, the city’s influence waned until the site was refortified by Alfred the Great . The Norman conquest saw the city become increasingly important until it was established as the capital of England – a fact reflected by the many royal palaces and homes which still exist today.

Much of London’s history speaks for itself, with a wealth of historic sites providing an insight into the lives that thousands of years of Londoners have led. Here’s our pick of 30 of the most famous attractions – from Buckingham Palace to Highgate Cemetery – which you shouldn’t miss.

1. British Museum

The British Museum is one of the world’s foremost museums of history and anthropology. The museum has some of the largest and most revered collections from around the globe ranging from Babylonian stonework and Samurai armour to pottery and glass from the Roman Empire .

Three hour and children’s’ itineraries are available on the museum’s website and at the museum itself. Alternatively, free audio guides are available or visitors can book a highlights tour in advance for a fee, which take place daily. You can book this online or by calling the museum.

2. London Mithraeum

In September 1954 during the construction of a huge new office block for insurance firm Legal & General, builders discovered a Roman temple which sat on the banks of the long-lost River Walbrook (now a City of London street), an ancient tributary of the Thames and source of fresh water, vital to the running of the Roman city of Londinium.

The good news is that the owners of the original location of the temple, media behemoth Bloomberg have brought the temple back to life by way of ‘an innovative museum experience that will change the way we encounter archaeology.’ The resultant experience is both fascinating and superbly presented and definitely one to visit.

3. Houses of Parliament

The Houses of Parliament or ‘Palace of Westminster’ is where both houses of the UK Parliament are located. Originally part of the great royal palace that had been home to English monarchs for over 500 years, Westminster Palace became the home of parliament in the 16th century after reign of King Henry VIII , when Henry moved the royal family out of the Palace of Westminster following a fire.

The original Westminster Palace burned down in 1834, and the building you see today is the result of the subsequent rebuilding by Sir Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin. The iconic clock tower, housing Big Ben, is probably the most famous part of this building and the complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site .

4. The Tower of London

The Tower of London, originally known as the White Tower, was commissioned by the first Norman king, William the Conqueror and work on it was underway by the 1070s. It was designed as a fortress-stronghold, a role that remained unchanged right up until the late 19th century. There is a great deal to see and do at the Tower: the beefeaters, ravens, site of the menagerie and just walking around it to soak up the history. Allow plenty of time for your visit.

5. Highgate Cemetery

Highgate Cemetery is a graveyard in London where the famous philosopher and political economist Karl Marx is buried. It is also the burial site of several other prominent people, including several novelists, artists, political activists and professionals. A list of famous internments can be found on Highgate Cemetery’s website. Guided tours of the East Cemetery, where Marx is interned, take place on the first Saturday of each month starting at 2:15pm and last around an hour.

6. Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is an iconic medieval structure and the site of many historic royal and national events, from coronations and weddings to burials and even deaths. Centrally located in London, Westminster Abbey was first constructed in the eleventh century by King Edward the Confessor , a Saxon king who dedicated this new church to St Peter.

To have an informed visit and to see the most interesting parts of the abbey, take a tour, as just wandering around can be overwhelming. Poets’ corner is one of the main attractions, it being the burial site of many prominent non-royal figures. One of the other most impressive sites is the Coronation Chair, produced in 1300-1301 under the orders of King Edward I . Its purpose was to accommodate the Stone of Scone, which the king had brought from Scotland .

7. Imperial War Museum

The Imperial War Museum is dedicated to exploring worldwide conflicts throughout history. The exhibitions in the London Imperial War Museum cover, amongst other things, different aspects of the First and Second World Wars including military history, the Holocaust , women’s roles in the conflicts, wartime artwork and the political issues of the time.

The Imperial War Museum is particularly child-friendly, with temporary exhibitions such as a reconstruction of a World War I trench.

8. London Roman Wall

The London Roman Wall was built between around 190 and 220 AD and stretched for about three miles from Blackfriars to Tower Hill. This defensive wall protected what was then the important Roman city of Londinium. Prior to the building of the London Roman Wall, Londinium already had a fort, parts of which were now incorporated into the new wall.

Over the centuries, most of the London Roman Wall has been obscured by medieval additions and other development. However, there are some well-preserved parts which can still be seen today. The map highlights one of the more prominent remaining sections of the London Roman Wall, that at Tower Hill.

9. Cabinet War Rooms

The Cabinet War Rooms are part of the underground bunker complex in London where Winston Churchill and his government operated during World War Two. The Cabinet War Rooms were left untouched from 1945, when they were no longer needed, until the 1980s when they were restored and opened to the public.

Those which are open today include the cabinet war room, where Churchill’s war cabinet met, Churchill’s office, and his bedroom. This underground office block even included a canteen and a hospital. Visitors should allow at least 90 minutes to savour the atmosphere of this iconic Second World War site.

10. Kew Palace

Kew Palace was built around 1631 by merchant Samuel Fortrey. The 17th century palace is noted for its distinctive decorative brickwork and gables, and it is the oldest surviving building in the Kew botanical gardens .

The Palace was opened to the public in 1898. The ground and first floor rooms at Kew have been restored to reflect the Georgian era, while the second floor has remained untouched.

11. HMS Belfast

HMS Belfast is a Royal Navy light cruiser ship that played a role in both World War II and the Korean War. It is now open to the public in London under the remit of the Imperial War Museum. Launched in March 1938, HMS Belfast was commissioned by the Royal Navy in 1939, not long before the outbreak of World War II.

During the war, HMS Belfast took part in the blockade on Germany , patrolling northern waters from the Scapa Flow naval base in Orkney , among many other roles. HMS Belfast’s next wartime role would occur in the 1950s, during the Korean War, where she was one of the first ships to go into action to support American and South Korean Troops. HMS Belfast was involved in a few peacetime missions before finally being taken to London in 1971.

12. Jewel Tower

Originally part of the medieval Westminster Palace, the Jewel Tower was built in 1365 to hold the riches of Edward III , earning it the name of the ‘King’s Privy Wardrobe’. Following a fire in 1834, the Jewel Tower and Westminster Hall were the only buildings of the palace to survive.

Today, the Jewel Tower is open to the public under the remit of English Heritage. Visitors to the Jewel Tower can view its fourteenth century vault, an exhibition about Parliament’s history and view the remains of its medieval moat and quay. A visit usually lasts around half an hour.

13. 10 Downing Street

10 Downing Street in London has been the residence of every British Prime Minister since 1730, when it was presented to Sir Robert Walpole. Walpole, Britain’s first Prime Minister, and architect William Kent converted the three existing buildings of 10 Downing Street into a single large one, known collectively by its now famous address, connected to each other by what is known as Treasury Passage.

Since that time, 10 Downing Street has been the location from which Prime Ministers have run the country and entertained heads of state and governments from around the world. 10 Downing Street’s iconic black door hides a warren of offices and state rooms as well as numerous conference rooms, dining rooms, private apartments, kitchens and cellars.

Over the years, 10 Downing Street has undergone renovations and modernisations to bring it into the 21st Century. It is not possible to tour 10 Downing Street, except of course by invitation, although the official website does have a virtual tour. There are also several audio files available on the Downing Street website detailing the building’s history and that of its residents.

14. Banqueting House

The Banqueting House in Whitehall, near Horseguards Parade, is the only complete building of the Palace of Whitehall to remain standing. The original Palace of Whitehall was acquired from Cardinal Wolsey by Henry VIII and was a royal residence until James I came to the throne in 1603.

From 1654 until 1658, the Palace of Whitehall was the home of the revolutionary and statesman, Oliver Cromwell . After the restoration of King Charles II to the throne in 1660, the Palace of Whitehall once again became the royal residence and the Banqueting House once again was used for its original purpose. In 1698, a huge fire burned Whitehall Palace to the ground. Sir Christopher Wren was commissioned to convert the Banqueting House into a chapel to replace the one destroyed in the fire.

15. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of Britain’s monarchs since 1837, at the start of the reign of Queen Victoria . With its 775 rooms, Buckingham Palace was originally built for the Dukes of Buckingham at the beginning of the eighteenth century.

In 1761, Buckingham Palace, then known as Buckingham House, was acquired by George III who rechristened it “The Queen’s Residence” and had it remodeled by Sir William Chambers. When the building passed to George IV , he continued the renovations, and, from 1826 under the remit of architect John Nash, began transforming Buckingham Palace into the building with which we are familiar today. These changes took around 75 years to implement. The first monarch to actually live there was Queen Victoria. Today, Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

16. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is a medieval palace once favoured by Henry VIII which has served as everything from a royal residence to a prison . In 1514, Thomas Wolsey , soon to be made cardinal, leased Hampton Court for a period of 99 years. He began rebuilding on a grand scale, converting Hampton Court into a lavish palace.

Upon the fall of Wolsey, Henry VIII took Hampton Court Palace for himself. Henry set about further renovation of Hampton Court Palace, rebuilding and extending the existing palace, at a staggering cost of over £60,000. The palace was used as a country retreat by Edward VI and Mary I . Elizabeth I used it as a venue for diplomacy and Hampton Court Palace was also used by James I, but none of them altered the buildings to any great extent.

17. Kensington Palace

Originally built for the Earl of Nottingham, Kensington Palace was acquired by King William III in 1689, after he and his wife, Mary II , had taken the throne from her father, James II . They employed Christopher Wren to rebuild and improve it.

Other monarchs enjoyed the atmosphere at Kensington Palace. These included Queen Anne , Mary’s sister, and her husband Prince George of Denmark. Her successor to the British throne, George I, had new state rooms built, and Queen Caroline, wife of George II, had the gardens laid out. In the time of George III, Kensington Palace ceased to be the monarch’s residence, and it housed some of the more minor Royals.

18. Nelson’s Column

Nelson’s Column is a tribute to one of the great men in British history: Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson , victor of many naval battles, including the Battle of Trafalgar (hence the name of the square). Constructed in the nineteenth century, Nelson’s Column commemorates the death of this iconic figure.

Nelson’s Column is the best known of the statues in Trafalgar Square. One plinth still awaits a permanent tenant, and is currently used for a series of exhibits by British artists.

19. Eltham Palace

Eltham Palace is a spectacular Art Deco palace built in the 1930’s alongside a 15th Century medieval hall. The Great Hall of Eltham Palace is still extant and was originally built for the Yorkist king Edward IV in the 1470s and his grandson, Henry VIII, spent much of his childhood here.

However, the ‘new build’ at Eltham Palace, dating from the 1930s is a wonderful example of Art Deco. When Stephen and Virginia Courtauld built their 1930s Art Deco mansion beside the Great Hall of medieval Eltham Palace, they created a masterpiece of 20th century design.

20. Tower Bridge

The impetus to build Tower Bridge began gaining momentum in 1876, when it was decided that there was a need for a bridge to the east of London Bridge to accommodate the increasing commercial development in that part of the city. A competition was launched for the design of this new bridge, as a result of which city architect Horace Jones and engineer John Wolfe Barry were chosen to collaborate on the project.

Tower Bridge was opened in 1894 by the then Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII). The walkways, much used by the population, were closed to the public from 1910 to 1982 as many ‘undesirables’ were using it. They were reopened in 1982 and now Tower Bridge offers a wonderful exhibition on its structure and engineering.

21. Battle of Barnet

The Battle of Barnet took place on the 14th of April 1471 and was one of the most decisive and bloody encounters of the Wars of the Roses .

There is little left of the battlefield now, but there is a monument on the A1000 road, which gives as good a view as any of the battlefield, which is now agricultural land, with little in the way of public footpaths. Like many of these medieval battlefields, the actual site is disputed, and is always under review.

22. The London Royal Air Force Museum

The Royal Air Force Museum (RAF Museum) in Hendon in North London has a series of exhibitions dedicated to the history of the RAF and aviation in general. Housing a fantastic collection of over 100 aircraft, the RAF museum has an impressive selection of planes including some of the most famous to have ever graced the skies.

Also on show at the London Royal Air Force Museum are a series of objects and structures from throughout the history of aviation, such as two World War I hangars, a World War II Battle of Britain exhibition and a timeline of aviation history.

23. Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum, better known as the V and A, in London is one of the world’s most prominent museums of design and decorative art.

Housing a vast array of items from around the world and throughout history, including Ancient Chinese art, Indian sculptures and medieval and renaissance masterpieces, the millions of artefacts and works displayed by the Victoria And Albert Museum span a period of over 3,000 years.

24. Big Ben

Big Ben is often thought to be the name of the iconic clock tower of the Houses of Parliament. In fact, ‘Big Ben’ is the nickname of one of the bells of this clock tower, originally called the Great Bell. It is unclear exactly where the name Big Ben originated, although it is thought that it was probably named after Sir Benjamin Hall, the man in charge of commissioning the structure. Another popular, although less likely, theory is that it was named after Ben Caunt, a champion heavyweight boxer of the mid nineteenth century.

In any event, most people now think of the whole of the clock tower as Big Ben. The clock tower of Big Ben was begun in 1843 and completed in 1859, while the clock was completed later that year and first sounded its bells on 7 September.

25. Kenwood House

Kenwood House is a picturesque historic stately home in North London run by English Heritage. Initially built in the seventeenth century, Kenwood House subsequently underwent a renovation in the mid-eighteenth century.

Today, Kenwood House is famous for its summer concerts, held in its extensive gardens. It also houses an impressive art collection, including works by Vermeer, Constable and Rembrandt to name a few.

26. Apsley House

Apsley House was the home of one of Britain’s most heroic figures, Arthur Wellesley better known as the Duke of Wellington. In fact, Wellington lived there following his most famous victory, that over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.

Named after the Baron Apsley, who originally built it in the 1770s, Apsley House came to be owned by the Wellesley family in 1807. The Wellesleys extended and altered Apsley House, transforming it into the building we see today. Now managed by the English Heritage, Apsley House has a range of worthwhile things to see, such as its remarkable regency interiors and exhibits relating to the Duke of Wellington. There are many things at Apsley House which belonged to the Duke, including his impressive art collection, much of which once formed part of the Spanish Royal Collection and which includes pieces by several famous artists such as Canova and Velazquez.

27. Fenton House

Fenton House in Hampstead in North London was built in the seventeenth century and has since remained almost entirely unchanged. It is unclear who built Fenton House, but it has been continuously occupied over the period of three hundred years.

Today, Fenton House and its gardens are managed by the National Trust and the house includes exhibits of, amongst other things, porcelain and early keyboard instruments.

28. St James’s Palace

St James’s Palace has been the official residence of the British Sovereign since the reign of King Henry VIII. In fact, it was under Henry VIII that the redbrick Tudor structure of St James’s Palace was begun in 1531 on the former site of a hospital. It was mostly completed by 1536. Much of this original work remains today, including a gatehouse, parts of the state rooms and the Chapel Royal.

With its status of royal residence, St James’s Palace has played host to many an important event. Amongst these was the death of Henry VIII’s illegitimate son Henry Fitzroy in 1536, the signing of the treaty of the surrender of Calais by Mary Tudor in 1558 and the births and baptisms of numerous future monarchs such as Charles II, James II, Mary II and James Francis Edward Stuart.

29. Clarence House

Clarence House has been the London residence of several members of the British royal family and is now the home of the Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. Built from 1825 to 1827 next to St James’s Palace, the prime location of Clarence House has made it the perfect place for royals to call home. The first member of the monarchy to live there was King William IV.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother moved in in 1953 and resided there for almost fifty years. Meanwhile, a newlywed Queen Elizabeth II also lived at Clarence House with The Duke of Edinburgh for a time in 1947.

30. Ham House

An opulent 17th century mansion, Ham House in London was once a bustling political playground for the courtiers of the Stuart dynasty from the reign of James I to Charles II.

Built by Sir Thomas Vavasour in 1610, Ham House epitomised the great competition for the favour of kings which was rampant during the seventeenth century and was often the battleground for courtiers competing for influence and power. In a time of intrigue and rivalry the material wealth of Ham House, still seen in the impressive collection of original furnishings and textiles, gives visitors a first-hand understanding of just what wonders were at stake for the glitterati of the English court.

Subterranean London: The unmissable Underground Tours

A re you looking for a slightly different view of London? Although many of the city’s most notable sites are above ground, you will find that there is a lot of history, remarkable works of engineering, and stories to be told, underneath the Earth.

In an underground tour of London, you can walk behind the scenes of the oldest metro in the world, take a quick peek into former air-raid shelters used during the second world war, and walk the dusty passageways that were once used by former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill.

If riding in black cabs and queuing at Madame Tussauds is not your thing any more, then try looking below the surface to escape the crowds.

To help you out, I’ve listed some of my favorite underground London tours that take you through lost tunnels and uncover parts of London you didn’t know were there.

1. Cabinet War Rooms

2. chislehurst caves, 3. the london bridge experience and london tombs, 4. tour of the london underground, 5. brunel’s underground tunnel, 6. the hidden london tours by london transport museum, tours of london, more london travel tips.

Planning your trip to London last-minute?

Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting London ! Here are some of the top tours, hotels, and useful items you may need before your trip!

Top Experiences and Tours in London

• River Thames Cruise (a great way to see the city skyline!)
• The Tower of London Entry Ticket w/ Crown Jewels Exhibit (an unmissable attraction in London!)
• Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour (to keep the kids happy!)
• London Eye Entry Ticket (to avoid long queues)

Top Accommodation and Hotels in London

• The Londoner Hotel (5* Hotel in Westminster, Ideal Location near Parliament)
• Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel (4* Hotel with Family Rooms in Kensington)
• The Assembly Covent Garden (3* Hotel in Leicester Square, 2 minutes to the metro and theatres)

The Best Underground London Tours

You’ll discover a hidden world of secret tunnels, terrifying tombs, elaborate train routes, and ancient cave systems on one of these underground London tours.

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Blitz with a trip down into the historic Cabinet War Rooms.

This warren of tunnels and bunkers under Whitehall was the headquarters for Britain’s war effort during WW2.

The tour starts by exploring the War Cabinet Room from where Winston Churchill planned Britain’s next move.

You can actually see the chair (complete with scratch marks on its arms) which he used during highly stressful meetings.

In the Map Room, nothing has changed since 16 Aug 1945, when the lights were finally switched off.

Wartime maps, colour-coded telephones, and even rationed sugar cubes remain exactly as they were when the war ended.

Check prices and availability for the Cabinet War Rooms tour here.

This network of 8000-year-old caves in the greater London area is an unexpected treat. The caves, which extend for 20 miles, were initially created as a result of flint and chalk mining.

You can take a lamp-lit tour deep into this labyrinth and explore the caves’ varied history; from their origins as mines to their subsequent use as an ammunition depot and then as an air raid shelter during WW2.

You can read more and check prices and availability here.

This spine-chilling historical tour takes you through the early days of London.

Begin by discovering the most haunted bridge in the world – London Bridge – then you’ll be taken through Roman, Viking, and Victorian times and you can watch Queen Boudicca defeat the Romans in battle and see the great fire of London erupt before your very eyes.

For a really frightful time, you’ll need to go deeper underground into the depths of the London Tombs.

This former plague pit has been given a Hollywood-inspired makeover and now boasts state-of-the-art special effects and live actors, to bring London’s bloody history to life.

Although The London Bridge Experience doesn’t have any age restrictions, all children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. The London Tombs is not suitable for children under 11.

We visited the London Bridge Experience with our 14- and 10-year-old. It was one of our teen’s favorite things to do in London . Our tween was a little scared. but she still loves sharing her memories from it.

Check prices and availability for the London Bridge Experience and London Tombs tour here.

You’re sure to have a renewed respect for the tube after this two-hour tour of the world’s oldest underground metro system.

This feat of engineering has been transporting passengers for 150 years and you’ll be able to see its original plans along with the steam engines that were first used.

Along your route, watch out for the ghost station at the British Museum and discover the secrets behind the original hand-dug tunnels.

Check prices and availability for the Underground Tube Tour here.

Discover how Isambard Kingdom Brunel helped his father Marc build one of the world’s first tunnels under a river.

The Thames tunnel, which is 170 years old, was originally designed to allow people and horses to cross the Thames without obstructing the passing ships.

Once known as the eighth wonder of the world, the tunnel was reopened in 2010 as part of the London Overground.

You can now descend into The Grand Entrance Hall at the tunnel shaft and even discover a secret chamber.

Tours can be organized through the Brunel Museum.

READ MORE: 15 of the best views in London (from above and below)

If you want to get off the beaten path, then the London Transport Museum, operated by Transport for London, have several underground tours you can take part in.

The tours are designed to take people to disused stations and secret sites, it’s an urban explorer’s dream come true.

You can choose to visit any of the following stations on a small group walking tour:

• Aldwych Station , which opened in 1907 but closed in 1994, and was the former “end of the line.” It was used as a shelter during the Blitz and is now an abandoned tube station. It has been featured in several film and television, such as Sherlock and Atonement. 
• Charing Cross , which is still in use today but became famous after it was used in the James Bond movie, Skyfall. This tour takes you to closed-off areas and the disused spaces of Charing Cross where you can learn about the station’s history and use in movie sets.
• Clapham South which opened after world war II and consists of eight deep-level shelters and miles of passageways.
• Down Street Station , also known as Winston Churchill’s secret station. It’s located between Green Park and Hyde Park Corner stations and was used as an air-raid shelter for the prime minister and was also the Railway Executive Committee’s bomb-proof headquarters.
• The lost tunnels of Euston . You can walk down the passageways and tunnels from Euston Station that are no longer in use, and still see vintage advertising posters adorning the walls.
• Go behind the scenes at Shepherd’s Bush station , one of the popular stations in London’s suburbs.
• Learn about modern day engineering with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Elizabeth Line from Tottenham Court Road.
• Kingsway trams tunnel tour. Before trains, the city used trams which consequently closed down. You can walk down the only remaining tram tunnel in London on this tour.

Tickets for the London Transport Museum tours are released throughout the year, so you will need to check their website and sign up for their newsletter to find out when tours are happening.

Final Thoughts on Underground Tours of London

I bet you didn’t realize how much of London’s underground world was accessible to tourists? I was pleasantly surprised too.

If you think about it, much of London’s history was served underground. During the 6-months of the Blitz, these underground stations were a place of refuge and safety.

Instead of being disused stations, they have been turned into attractions so tourists can see the city’s engineering triumphs and historical landmarks.

Whether you’re looking for a fun activity for a Saturday night or you’re curious about the history of the world’s oldest metro system, these tours are sure to be a highlight of your London trip.

Save Money on London Attractions

Get Your Guide has an incredible variety of tours, activities, tickets and passes with a list of handpicked tours and things to do in London.   Like this original Harry Potter Guided walking tour

• The London Sightseeing Pass: Our favorite of the tourist discount cards is the London Sightseeing Pass for their flexibility and diversity. They offer entry to top London attractions, plus quirky local tours, and discounts on shopping and eating out. S ee more information and get your pass here.
• The London Pass By GoCity : gives you free entry to 60+ top London attractions, Hop on and Off sightseeing tour, and fast track passes at popular London attractions.  Get your London Pass here .

Are you planning a trip to London but need more inspiration for your trip? Then you may find these other guides helpful…

• Things to Do in London
• London Travel Tips
• Ultimate guide to getting around London
• Arriving in London Alone and Without Any Money
• 5 of the best accommodation options in London from budget to luxury
• Why you should plan a London vacation
• Is the London Eye worth it?
• 21 Places to visit in London
• 3 Day London Itinerary

Have you explored London’s underground before? What do you recommend? Let us know in the comments.

Money latest: The easy ways you can improve your credit score - and one that takes minutes

We dig into credit scores in the latest entry in our Basically series. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news in the Money blog - and share your thoughts on anything of the stories we publish below. Listen to the Ian King Business podcast while you scroll.

Tuesday 16 April 2024 08:44, UK

• Spotlight on unpaid carers: 'I feel isolated, lonely and guilty': Daughter caring for mother with motor neurone disease alone  
• Basically... How to improve your credit score
• UK's most expensive streets revealed

Essential reads

• How to earn thousands letting film and music stars shoot in your home
• Britons can now 'work from home' in Italy for a year
• 'I'm a prisoner': Mother spending pension looking after son, 41, with cerebral palsy
• Money Problem: My boss ruined end of maternity leave with ultimatum - what are my rights?

Ask a question or make a comment

By James Sillars , business news reporter 

There is no real prospect of a new record high for the FTSE 100 today.

Stock markets have widely taken fright at the prospect of US interest rates remaining higher for longer, after further evidence of resilience in the world's biggest economy yesterday.

Energy stocks led the FTSE lower at the open - falling 1.3% to 7,862.

Sentiment in London was not improved by data from the ONS that showed UK wage growth remaining stubbornly high.

The Bank of England wants to see the pace come down markedly before relaxing its battle against inflation through an interest rate cut.

LSEG data showed a flurry of bets away from June for the first rate cut and towards August instead.

Across the market more widely, shares in Superdry were 25% down as it confirmed a story by Sky News yesterday that it had launched a restructuring plan that would result in rent reductions for some of its stores.

It also planned an equity raise, which it said would allow it to delist from the London Stock Exchange.

One other piece of market data to flag: the cost of oil.

Brent crude is still sat around the $90 a barrel mark amid the raised tensions in the Middle East.

Market experts have warned the direction will be determined by Israel's response to Iran's drone and missile attack on Israeli soil on Saturday night.

The Office for National Statistics has just released its latest data on wage growth - a factor in the sights of the Bank of England as it considers when to start cutting interest rates. 

Wages excluding bonuses grew by 6% in the three months to the end of February, compared with the same period a year ago. 

A Reuters poll of economists had predicted wage growth would slow to 5.8% from 6.1% in November to January. 

The figures, while welcome on the face of it for struggling households, will make for worrying reading at the Bank of England, which is assessing the timing for a long-awaited interest rate cut in its battle against inflation.

Other labour figures released by the ONS showed unemployment in February rose to 4.2% from 3.9%, and the number of vacancies in January to March was 916,000, a fall of 13,000 on the previous three months.

Liz McKeown, director of economic statistics at the ONS, said: "Recent trends of falling vacancy numbers and slowing earnings growth have continued this month albeit at a reduced pace. 

"But with the rate of inflation also slowing, real earnings growth has increased and is now at its highest rate in nearly two and a half years."

Read more on what the figures mean from our business reporter James Sillars here :

A street in Westminster (perhaps unsurprisingly) has been named the most expensive in the country. 

Nestled near Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament, houses along Buckingham Gate were found to come with an average price tag at £9,633,333, according to Rightmove. 

After Buckingham Gate, the next highest average asking price was found in Vicarage Gate in Holland Park in west London, at £6,332,000.

Outside London, Old Avenue in Weybridge, Surrey, had the highest average asking price for properties so far this year, at £2,633,333.

When it comes to renting, Albion Street in Bayswater, central London, was found to be the most expensive at £20,857 a month.

This was followed by Pavilion Road in Knightsbridge, central London, where renters spend around £15,251 a month for a new let. 

Outside the capital, London Road in Ascot, Berkshire, was found to have the highest rent price at £6,831 a month.

Basically, a credit score is a three-digit number that indicates how reliable you are at borrowing and repaying money. 

It is worked out by collecting information about you from public records, lenders and other service providers.

The scores are based on the amount you have borrowed, your repayment history and other information such as your job and age.

Credit scores can influence your ability to access loans and credit, as well as the terms you are offered if your application is successful.

It can also be a factor if you want to buy a car on finance or when buying a new smartphone through a pay-monthly contract. 

A good score can also see you have access to the lowest interest rates available on mortgages and it can affect how much you pay for your security deposit on a rental house.

What is a good credit score?

Your credit worthiness is calculated using a points system.

In the UK, there are three main credit reference agencies - Experian, Equifax and TransUnion - and they each have their own system of rating your credit worthiness. 

Experian, which gives scores out of 999, has said a credit score of 700 or above is generally considered good and a score of 800 or above is considered to be excellent. 

Equifax, which gives you a score out of 1,000, considers scores between 740 to 799 to be very good; and 800 up are considered excellent.

TransUnion considers a good credit score to be between 721-780 while 781 onwards is excellent.

How can you improve it?

This may seem an obvious one, but keeping up with repayments is a good way to show lenders you are sensible with money and are likely to pay back what you borrow on time, an Equifax spokesperson told the Money blog. 

The credit reference agency said it is also best to avoid staying close to or exceeding your credit limit as this can indicate that you're experiencing financial difficulties.

Rajan Lakhani, money expert at the money app Plum, said registering on the electoral roll is also an easy way - and only takes minutes - to improve your score as it gives lenders confidence that they know where you are based.

He also said getting a whole credit report is another way to keep an eye on any errors or even fraud.

"A lot of people will just look at the score but it's worth getting the full report," he said. 

"Even if there is something that has occurred but there were special circumstances around it, you can get a notice of correction and it explains that."

Mark Mcelvanney, client services director at IE Hub, said "consistency" was important too.

"Your credit scores are built up of lots of difference data sources so every time you make an application for a loan, credit card or any form of credit you enter information into that application," he said.

"Making sure the application information is consistent is important, even down to your job title, because if they look different in each of those applications, the ultimate worthiness will be impacted and there could be suggestions of fraud or instability."

And it is also worth "de-linking mortgages" after splitting with a partner, he added.

"If their credit file starts to suffer that can have a negative impact on you," he said.

Other tips from Equifax...

Take control of your finances

Having combined finances - like a joint mortgage or credit card -  could negatively affect your ability to access credit, if the other person's credit history is poor.

Know the difference between hard and soft credit searches

When you apply for credit, it leaves a "footprint" on your credit report and making too many applications in a short space of time can have a negative impact on your score.

Instead, space out and limit the number of applications you make.

Check your credit report regularly

Despite popular myths, checking your credit report regularly does not negatively impact your credit score. 

Read other entries in our Basically... series...

By Bhvishya Patel, Money team

Over four days this week, we're speaking to some of Britain's struggling unpaid carers, hearing at times heart-breaking accounts of their physical, emotional and financial struggles.

Today, a daughter who cares for her mother with motor neurone disease tells us the financial support she receives "is not even close to enough" and left her needing to use her savings as a last resort.

Fiona Jermaine, 39, from Grimsby, whose mother Helen, 74, was diagnosed in 2012, worked full-time until the pandemic but after she was furloughed and her mother's condition worsened she decided against returning.

"Mentally it's isolating - you feel lonely. And as much as you do, you always feel guilty and feel you are not doing enough." Fiona Jermaine

While Fiona has care agency staff come to the house to help, she is the main carer for her mother.

"Everything around the house is down to me - the washing, cleaning, shopping, cooking," Fiona says. 

"I'm very much tied to the house."

Physically it has "massively" taken a toll on her and mentally it is "isolating".

"I think because you're busy, you ignore how you are feeling. As daft as it sounds, you don't really stop until you're actually really, really poorly. So you kind of ignore a lot," she says.

"Mentally it's isolating - you feel lonely. And as much as you do, you always feel guilty and feel you are not doing enough."

Heating on 24/7

With her mother's care falling under the NHS continuing healthcare support, her carers are funded by the health service.

The funding, which is separate to the £76.75-a-week carer's allowance, is provided for those assessed as having a "primary health need" and pays for the care agency, with Fiona's mother allocated £700 a week.

But with "sky-high" gas and electricity bills in the cost of living crisis, Fiona says she is sometimes left with no option but to dip into her savings.

"Mum feels the cold so the heating is on 24/7 and she has so many pieces of medical equipment on and I can't turn them off," Fiona says.

"You don't get any help with that whatsoever."

In addition to carer's allowance, Fiona gets universal credit but she says she is not able to receive the maximum £368.74 she could be entitled to due to receiving a carer's benefit. She instead receives £222.02 a month.

She says the financial help she gets from the carer's allowance is "not even close" to enough.

"It's supposed to be based on the carer working 35 hours a week - so myself doing 35 hours of care. I challenge you to find a carer that only does that. It's really not a lot," she says.

"People tell me I'm doing a really good job, but you never feel like that, you always feel like you should do more - it's tiring.

"It feels like you can never switch off. Even if you do go out for an hour, you are still listening to your phone."

'People do not do only 35 hours'

With no other avenues of income, her financial struggles have left Fiona needing to use her savings as a last resort. Returning to work is a "possibility" but she is uncertain about how that would work.

"When the gas and electricity bills went really high, going into my savings was the only way I could pay it," she says.

"And then Mum also needed a new wheelchair accessible vehicle and the upfront payment for that was about £4,500. I had no choice, I had to pay it.

"With returning to work, it could possibly happen, but more likely it'll be when Mum's no longer with us - I lean more towards that.

"Obviously if finances meant that I had to, I would but I can't honestly tell you how I would make that work."

With carers facing unprecedented pressure on their finances, Fiona says domiciliary home care needs "vast amounts of money thrown at it" and the government needed to be a "bit more realistic" with carer's allowance.

"The 35 hours figure for care is just ridiculous. People do not do 35 hours. I don't know where they plucked that arbitrary figure from but it is ridiculous so that needs to be looked at," she says.

"And then I think they need to make it so it's not tied into your other benefits.

"There is a threshold, so you can only do so many hours or earn so much and then you lose your universal credit. It's so difficult to find a job that fits around the care side. 

"They've made out that they want everyone to go back to work. Well, make it a bit easier for us to go back to work."

A government spokesperson said: "Unpaid carers play a vital role in the lives of their family and friends, which is why from April we're boosting carer's allowance meaning carers receive an extra £1,500 a year compared to 2010.

"Those in low income households may also be eligible for additional financial support such as universal credit."

You can read the first part of our series here :

HMRC has overpaid its own staff millions of pounds over the past 10 years, according to The Telegraph. 

In total, £12.6m has been pocketed by employees but only £12.3m has been paid back, leaving a £300,000 shortfall. 

The news outlet said some 250 staff were overpaid by more than £1,000 last year. 

Some of the overpayments were caused by payroll failing to stop salary payments for people who had left the company, it added. 

The revelation comes after the tax office controversially decided to close its helplines for six months. 

"With a staff headcount of almost 67,500, we operate at a monthly payroll average accuracy rate of 99.54%, which exceeds the corporate benchmark of 98%," a HMRC spokesperson said.

"Our total pay bill in the 2022/23 financial year was £2.449bn* which means that 0.05% was incorrectly paid that year, and we have recovered over 84% of that.

"We have robust processes in place for the recovery of over and underpayments and all staff are provided with guidance on the importance of checking the payment of their salary."

Asda has become the first UK supermarket to launch an online prescription service. 

The Asda Online Pharmacy allows patients to manage prescriptions digitally and have them delivered to their home

All requests will undergo thorough checks by qualified pharmacists before being approved.

From today, new patients can register for the service by visiting pharmacy.asda.com. 

Dr Martens has filed a lawsuit against online retailer Temu for allegedly infringing its trademarks, according to The Times. 

The British bootmaker has alleged that the online retailer paid Google to advertise boots sold on its site when users search keywords including "Dr Martens", it said. 

As a result, Temu's lookalike products were placed about Dr Martens' own in search results. 

The move is the latest sign of growing hostility between Western retailers and their cheaper Chinese rivals. 

Temu told Sky News it was yet to receive the complaint and will review it in due course.  

Tesla is cutting 10% of its global workforce in a bid to reduce costs and bolster productivity, it has been reported.

The electric vehicle maker, founded and run by Elon Musk, was yet to comment on a story earlier today by Electrek that it was to axe about 15,000 people.

The tech publication said the cuts were revealed in an internal memo - also seen by the Reuters news agency.

It added that managers had been tasked earlier this year with identifying key personnel.

The company, which had more than 140,000 staff at the end of last year, has been struggling with soft demand for its electric vehicles.

The average UK tenant is spending 30.6% of their salary on rent, data shows.

Many experts believe that a third of your earnings is considered the outer limit for affordability.

But in several areas of the UK, people are spending considerably more, an index created by Canopy has shown.

Tenants in Poole have been found to be struggling most with affordability, with the average renter giving more than 40% of their income to their landlord. 

Stirling has also made a surprising inclusion in the top 10 places, with a low average income meaning tenants are spending 37.8% of their wages on rent. 

Belfast was found to be the most affordable major city for renters, with people spending just over a quarter of their salary in rent (23.2%), on average. 

Here are the 10 places people spend the highest percentage of their income on rent: 

Chris Hutchinson, chief executive of Canopy, said the data showed homeowners spend an average of 18% of their income on their mortgage. 

"It is sobering to see that one in five tenants are spending the vast majority of their salary on rental payments, and it neatly encapsulates the tricky situation that many tenants with aspirations of homeownership are in," he said. 

"Where we could see positive change is towards longer tenancies for those who desire them, fostering greater security for families and communities."

Up until 1995, children were effectively banned from all public houses in England and Wales, leaving parents with no option but to arrange - and in many cases pay for - alternative childcare if they wished to visit licensed premises.

Among other consequences of this change, legal guardians of all kinds have since been able to avoid such expenses by popping out for a pub lunch, for example, with their respective minors in tow.

However, while it is now perfectly legal for pubs to allow children in, it remains within the power of licensees to forbid the attendance of people under the age of 18. 

And while relatively few establishments choose to exercise this right, one such watering hole has sparked a rather intense debate around the issue.

In a post that had been viewed more than 18 million times at the time of writing, a man is pictured next to a sign indicating children (unlike dogs) are not permitted inside an unnamed pub - beneath a message that suggests the post's author approves of the policy.

While some on X expressed support or sympathy for the stance, many others were rather less sanguine.

Among the criticisms was the impact the stance might have on single parents - while others highlighted the financial drain of babysitters that might render a trip to the pub in question impossible for some parents.

The point was made by some users that other licensed premises were available for parents facing such a predicament. Perhaps unsurprisingly though, this seemingly pragmatic observation appears to have done little to quell the anger of those most outraged by the publican behind the child-unfriendly edict. 

It's no secret that electrical devices feast on your power supply even if they're in standby mode... 

But do you know how much these "vampire devices" are costing you? 

Energy expert Stephen Hankison says households could save £131 a year just by switching appliances off at the wall. 

The biggest savings can be made from unplugging games consoles, as these can cost you £32 a year on standby.

Gaming PCs (£21), TVs (£14) and desktop computers (£18) are also big drainers. 

"It's so simple but switching your appliances off at the wall really is the best way to ensure you’re not spending your hard-earned income on keeping things in standby mode," Mr Hankison, from Electric Radiators Direct, said. 

"£130 is a big food shop, two tanks of petrol or even a nice meal out. There really are much better ways to use this money than giving it to the energy companies."

Here's how much your devices are costing you on standby mode:

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England cricket great Derek Underwood dies at age 78

The Associated Press

April 15, 2024, 10:28 AM

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LONDON (AP) — Derek Underwood, the England cricket great who is the most prolific spin bowler in the national team’s test history, has died. He was 78.

English county team Kent announced the death of Underwood on Monday, without disclosing any specific details.

Underwood took 297 wickets in 86 test appearances for England with his left-arm spin between 1966-82. He also took 32 wickets in ODIs.

Underwood was a one-county man, representing Kent for 24 years.

Kent chairman Simon Phillip described Underwood as “one of its greatest ever players.”

“Watching Derek weave his unique magic on a wet wicket was a privilege for all who were able to witness it,” Phillip said. “His induction into the ICC Hall of Fame shows the esteem in which he was held in world cricket.”

AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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