city of london free tours

Free Historic City of London Tour *

Free historic city of london tour*.

Schedule - See Calendar

Meeting Point - Tower Hill Station

Duration - 2.5 Hours

Language - English

Start Time - 10.30am

Price - Free

Turn back the clock 2000 years and join us as we trace the journey of the City of London, from the arrival of the Romans and its roots as a square mile trading village on the River Thames, all the way to becoming the financial capital of Europe, home to dozens of the strangest glass skyscrapers on Earth.

Along the way, you will hear stories of the Viking occupation, William the Conqueror's Norman Conquest, the construction of London's medieval fortress, the devastation of the Great Fire of 1666, the destruction of the Blitz and the resilience and bravery of the people who lived through it and so much more!  Nowhere else in London is the clash of ancient crumbling icons and trailblazing modern architecture so obvious, with huge skyscrapers and historic 12th-century churches standing proudly, shoulder to shoulder. Our Free City of London Sightseeing Tour begins at Tower Hill Underground Station before heading straight to the Tower of London, an ancient fortress with a fascinating history that was once the tallest building in Europe. Most famous today for housing the Crown Jewels, this Norman castle has been a Palace, a prison, a place of execution and even a zoo over the last millennium. Nearby you will find the breathtaking Tower Bridge. Don’t be fooled by its medieval exterior though, this bridge is far younger than The Tower of London. Beneath its ancient facade is cold, hard Victorian engineering, a true marvel on London’s skyline. After a stroll along the river, we will find The Monument to the Great Fire of London, which ravaged the City in 1666, reshaping the City forever. While we won’t stop to climb the 311 steps to the top during the tour, your guide will give you plenty of information on how to book your tickets. Next, the walking tour will be sandwiched between The Royal Exchange and The Bank of England, two economic powerhouses that paved the way for the British Empire to become the largest in human history. The Free City of London Sightseeing Tour reaches its finale in the shadows of St Paul’s Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, which became a symbol of hope and survival during the darkest days of The Blitz during the Second World War. Throughout the Free Walking Tour, our expert guides will bring the historic locations to life, with tales of their past glory and key roles in shaping the City we see today.  How can one self-governing square mile, with ancient laws, created by its own council and imposed by its own police force, stand so separately from everything around it? You’ll have to join the walking tour to find out! Book online today!

Or why not visit the home of the British Monarchy for centuries and join our Royal Westminster tour !

Tour Highlights include: ​

The Tower of London

London's Roman Wall

St Paul's Cathedral

Tower Bridge

Mansion House

The Bank of England

The Royal Exchange

A walk along the River Thames

Authentic pub lunch

& much more!

         Meeting Point - To wer Hill Underground Station

We begin next to the Tower Hill Tram Refreshment stand , just outside Tower Hill underground station. The station is on the circle and district line, and around a 10 minute walk from Monume nt/Bank and Aldgate.

We recommend arriving 10-15 minutes before the tour starts, it gives you plenty of time to meet the guide and grab a coffee or ice cream!

• How do I find the Guide? Head to Tower Hill Underground Station, next to the Tram Coffee stop, and look for the guide holding up a bright red umbrella.
• Where does the tour start and end? The tour starts outside M&M World in Leicester Square and the guide should be nearby holding a red umbrella. The tour will finish near Whitehall and Trafalgar Square, in Westminster. The exact location will vary depending on the guide and the day, but the guide will always let you know at the beginning of the tour.
• How long is the tour? The tour is roughly 6 long, but will vary on the guide. There's a lunch break in the middle, lasting approximately an hour.
• Do I need to make a booking? Or cancel if my plans change? Yes please. The number of bookings we receive dictates how many guides we send to run the tour. If we have 100 extra people turn up, it's not going to be a good experience for anyone. Please be aware, we do not accept groups of 8 people or more. Even if you book separately, if you attend the tour as a big group, you will be turned away. If you are a group of 8 or more please contact us to enquire about booking a private tour. We'd be very grateful if you could cancel if you can no longer attend, as it could allow us to give your spot to someone else.
• What if its raining? If its raining, we will get wet! We always recommend you carry an umbrella in London, the weather really is that temperamental, but if we didn't run tours in bad weather, we wouldn't get to do many. Rain or shine we will be there waiting. Of course, if you don’t fancy standing in the rain with us we understand.
• What should I wear? Our tours are all walking, so we always recommend comfy shoes. Check the weather on the day of the tour, but we recommend bring a raincoat and some SPF just incase.
• How is it free?* We run all our tours on a pay what you think it’s worth basis. There is no booking fee for our free tours, and no payment is required before the tour begins. This means they are accessible to every budget. However our guides are all freelancers and don't get paid to do the tour, if you have fun then you can decide if you would like to tip your guide. The value is up to you, whatever fits in with your budget and your level of enjoyment. This also incentivises our guides to never stop trying to improve, as the system rewards the guides who provide the best quality tours. Tipping is always voluntary and our guides will never pressure you into it, but this is their job so if you have had fun, we ask that you take a moment to consider what it was worth to you.

Prefer to join us on a Private Tour ?

If you are booking for a group of 8 or more, or just want a more personal experience away from the crowds, then you can book this as a Private Tour . You can dictate the content, the route and the time or sit back and let your guide lead you.

For more information on Private Tours   click here .

Please note, ALL schools and educational groups should book a Private Tour .

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20 Best Free Walking Tours in London

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Are you looking for the best free walking tours in London? Don’t know which one to pick?

Check our selection of the best free tours you can experience and enjoy an up-close encounter of London’s opulent culture and eclectic architecture that are bound to etch themselves into your memory for life.

A visit to any one of the walking tours on this list is bound to add excitement to your trip, and best of all- they’re free!

Please note that some free walking tours of London are exclusively in English, while others are in Spanish or other languages. Make sure to pick the right one.

1 – Free tour British Museum London

This tour takes you on a three-hour excursion to one of the most important museums in the world!

More than eight million objects are on display giving you a glimpse of two million years of human history and rarities.

A nesting ground for both the curious and the studious, this tour is plush with information guaranteed to equip you with the knowledge that will last a lifetime.

• Book this tour

2 – Free Westminster tour + Changing of the Guard

Considered one of the most distinguished Free Walking Tours in London, this experience is coupled with a chance to witness the Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace.

Learn about the fascinating history behind this iconic tradition while strolling along several locations famously occupied by the British Royals.

Pass by the renowned Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the Prime Minister’s residence- this tour is packed with imperial features you’re sure to enjoy!

• See reviews

3 – Royal London free walking tour

The most famous landmarks of London are all part of the Royal London free walking tour.

Get insight on London’s Royal history as you take in the sites of Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, Horse Guards Parade, Big Ben, and more.

Loads of information wait behind every feature of this two-and-a-half-hour tour.

Hot tip: Compare the best walking tours in London and step into the city’s vibrant culture

4 – Full London in 6 hours

Got some extra time on your hands? Then use it to see the whole of one of the world’s greatest cities!

Taste the food, uncover the ancient secrets of the City of London and visit world-famous landmarks like the Tower of London, Bank of England, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

You may think six hours is a long time, but in the end, you’ll be begging for more after experiencing all the wonders that London has to share.

5 – London at Night – Royal Zone with Christmas Lights

They say everything looks different at night, and you can judge for yourself while walking the London streets at Christmas time.

The legendary Christmas lights make this one of the best Free Walking Tours in London as they cast their majestic glow amidst the dark winter streets.

See Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, British Parliament, and many other sites transformed with the festive gleams of Christmas lights in London!

6 – Free tour London Essential

Tour the district of Westminster and learn about key attractions that make up Britain’s culture.

You’ll see the Buckingham Palace, the Wellington Barracks and the Houses of Parliament. You’ll also take a walk through St James’s Park and might even get a chance encounter with the pelicans there.

Big Ben and the Prime Minister’s residence are also on the list, all while taking in the history of these sites along this significant route.

7 – Soho Free Tour

The scenic Soho neighborhood is a sight for sore eyes and is famously known for its connection to the likes of Carl Marx, Oscar Wilde, and Jimi Hendrix!

A place filled with artistic accents, eccentric architecture and loads of history, the Soho Tour will add flair and fancy to your London vacation.

8 – Camden Town Free Tour

The 90’s Britpop Movement is the secret behind the extravagance and eccentricities that make up London’s most alternative neighborhood of Camden Town.

Vivid colors, quirky themes, and fantastic caricatures all make up the features of this tour.

You will get an intimate glimpse of the neighborhood’s historic transformation over the years from a dwelling for the upper class to a bizarre ensemble of art, bars, and odd charm.

9 – Notting Hill Free Walking Tour

You must have seen the movie that got its name from this famous town, now you can take a walk through this affluent district with loads of famous sites.

From the homes of celebrities like Madonna and Robbie Williams to the quaint and colorful houses, bookstores, gardens, and markets, this is one of the free walking tours in London that you certainly need to add to your list!

10 – The beginnings of the City of London

If you’re a history buff, looking to learn about the origins of the City of London, this tour is the one for you.

Observe rare architecture built since Roman times, learn about the Great Fire of 1666 or visit the medieval castle of London and see its evolution over the centuries.

Marvel in the ancient wonders of London and their perseverance over all these years. This tour will certainly enrich studious minds!

11 – British Rock Free Tour

Renowned for its history and contribution to global Rock n Roll, this tour brings together the best of London’s rock culture in one visit.

Discover stories of the Beatles and Amy Winehouse while visiting places with deep roots in rock music like Oxford Street, 100 Club, Miranda Club, Punk Movement, and many more!

12 – Free Harry Potter Tour

Of all the Free Walking Tours in London, this one is the most magical! Every step of the Free Harry Potter Tour takes you on an enchanted journey in and around London.

See all the amazing buildings that influenced author J.K. Rowling’s penning of the iconic series.

Visit Diagon Alley and other shops where you can get unique memorabilia from the franchise!

13 – Free Street Art Tour

Bring out the street artist in you while walking the streets of London’s East End- also known as the mecca for art enthusiasts from all over the world.

Be amazed by the extravagant graffiti art etched along the walls of various streets.

From Brick Lane, Shoreditch, Fashion Street, Bateman’s Row, and Spitalfields, there are countless opportunities to take in awe-inducing street art on this tour.

14 – Bank of the River Thames Tour

The Borough Market, the Cathedral of San Paulo, and The Millennium Bridge are only a few of the captivating landmarks that you will come across during this tour.

Learn about the history of the theatre of William Shakespeare or visit the locations of major productions like Harry Potter and many more!

15 – London Central Walking Tour by a Local

With fun and humor the main accessory of this tour, you will get to learn about the Queens of England and how they changed the world.

One of the most engaging Free Walking Tours in London, you will encounter all the famous landmarks of Central London , including the National Gallery, St. James’s Palace, Queen Victoria memorial, and others.

16 – Free London Landmarks – West Side

Learn unknown facts and secrets about the most popular figures in British history!

Tales of Henry the VIII, Guy Fawkes, and Winston Churchill await you as you walk past the buildings in which they lived and worked.

Hear the history of London’s rise to becoming history’s biggest empire and of the people who fought and died to defend it.

17 – London Night Walking Tour

London at night is a sight to see, and you’ll realize why once you make this one of your chosen Free Walking Tours in London.

Experience London like never before as you walk through Piccadilly Circus, China Town, Covent Garden, and other magically illuminated attractions while also indulging in the nightlife and bright city lights.

18 – Free London Food Tour

Let your palate be your guide on the Free London Food Tour!

Learn about the history of London’s chic East End while savoring some of the best foods representing the myriad cultures and people who migrated to London.

Try London’s famous chips or a sumptuous samosa – bite after bite you’ll still want more no matter how many foods and stories you come across on this tour!

19 – London in a Day with Changing of the Guard and Views from Above

Did you say two tours in one day? Our wish is your command! This tour packs in a full day of must-see sites in Royal Westminster and the City.

Loaded with non-stop information as you visit the Buckingham Palace- where you’ll see the Changing of the Guard ceremony –  the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, and others-  you won’t believe how quickly time flies while on taking in London in an entire day!

20 – The Origins of the City of Londinium Free Tour

Founded by the Romans over 2000 years ago, the City of London has evolved into one of the world’s most successful financial and business hubs.

On this tour, you can see both modern and ancient sites that make up this fascinating city including the Tower of London, the Bank of England, and the Old Church.

With deep-rooted history and endless fact-filled anecdotes, this tour will equip you with all the information you need about the origin of this city.

We hope you enjoyed our selection of the best free walking tours in London.

Do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions regarding London’s free walking tours.

Enjoy London and have fun 🙂

Due to unforeseen circumstances, All tours have been canceled.

We apologise for any inconvenience.

• Royal London and Changing of the Guard Tour
• Fire, Pestilence and Plague Tour
• The Southbank Tour, Bankside Brothels and Beer
• Secrets of London Tour
• Secrets of of London Two, Revolution Rebellion and Religion Tour
• Private Tours

Free London Walking Tours

The only way to really see the amazing City of London is to walk it. Immerse yourself in this experience rich in history. See the places, learn about the people and discover more on one of our tours.

Royal London and Changing of the Guard

A fascinating walk around Royal London including the Changing of the Guard, taking in the splendour and glamour of our capital. See three royal palaces, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben on this fully guided tour.

10:30 Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

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Fire, Pestilence and Plague

For hundreds of years the City of London has been ‘plagued’ by disaster, from the sacking of the city by Queen Boudicca, to the bomb damage during the Blitz. Along the way you’ll encounter mass graveyards from the plague, execution sites and sinister stories. A tour not to be missed!

Wednesday and Sunday 2:30pm.

Experience the real history of London, the people’s history! Southwark has long been associated with debauchery, but has recently enjoyed a resurgence in popularity. Join our expert guide on this unique tour of Bankside and discover its compelling history.

Saturday 2:30pm.

Soho and Covent Garden, the Wicked West End

See where the Beatles and the Rolling Stones performed and where theSoho and Covent Garden, the Wicked West End tour">View details »

Secrets of London

Experience a walking tour with a difference! On the secret hidden London tour you will hear the more unusual stories about London’s famous sights. Discover the secrets of our famous city that are hiding in plain view!

Thursday 2.30pm.

Secrets of London Two, Revolution Rebellion and Religion Tour

Our second Secrets of London tour starts and ends at Blackfriars station and will take in the most fascinating historical sites the City of London has to offer.

Friday at 14:30pm

INFORMATION

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Free walking tour near London

Others cities to visit after london, find other guruwalks in london, where are you traveling to.

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Free walking tours in London

The captivating city of London weaves its rich history with its vibrant urban life. The capital of the United Kingdom is a destination that arouses the senses and curiosity of every visitor.

Its iconic landmarks, such as the majestic Big Ben, the emblematic Tower of London, and many more, will transport you to eras of grandeur. Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of its streets, where art and culture flourish on every corner, from the city's famous museums to the theaters of the West End, allowing us to discover the greatness of this city.

It is a must for the visitor to explore the exquisite markets and savor the delicious international cuisine that this cosmopolitan metropolis has to offer.

London invites you to live a unique experience that you will always remember.

Discover London in a fun and engaging way with Free Tours London

Free Tours in London are an ideal option for discovering the city in an entertaining manner. These guided tours are led by passionate local guides who will take you to the main points of interest, such as Covent Garden, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace. You'll also have the chance to explore lesser-known but equally intriguing places, like Camden Town Market and Greenwich Park. Don't hesitate to join a Free Tour and get to know the best of London!

Points of Interest in London

The city of London is brimming with iconic places that you mustn't miss during your visit. Here's a selection of the must-see places you should explore:

Must-See Monuments in London

• The Tower of London: This imposing castle offers a fascinating history and houses the famous British Crown Jewels.
• Tower Bridge: One of London's most iconic symbols, with breathtaking views of the River Thames and the city.
• The London Eye: A giant Ferris wheel that provides a spectacular panoramic view of the city.

Buckingham Palace and Westminster Palaces

Visit the iconic Buckingham Palace, the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II, with its famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. Also, discover the majestic Palace of Westminster, home to the British Parliament and its famous Big Ben.

Westminster Abbey and Big Ben

Westminster Abbey is an impressive historic place of worship and the site of British monarch coronations. Nearby, you can marvel at the famous Big Ben, one of London's most recognizable landmarks.

Trafalgar Square and St. James's Palace

Trafalgar Square is a vibrant and famous central square, with its impressive Nelson's Column and lion fountain. Nearby, you'll find the elegant St. James's Palace, a royal residence.

Explore London's History and Culture

Discover London's rich history and vibrant culture through its various historic sites, museums, and unique experiences. Immerse yourself in the city's past as you explore its fascinating landmarks and uncover the history of the British royal family. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the darker side of London, where you'll encounter intriguing and mysterious stories.

Historic Sites and Museums

In London, you'll find a wide variety of historic sites and museums that allow you to delve into the city's evolution over the centuries. Visit the imposing Westminster Abbey, where coronations and historically significant events have taken place. Don't miss Big Ben, an iconic clock that has witnessed numerous iconic moments. Additionally, you can explore places like the Churchill War Rooms, transporting you to the era of World War II, and the Museum of London, where you'll discover the city's history from its origins.

Discover the History of the British Royal Family

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the British royalty and explore the history of the royal family. Tour Buckingham and St. James's Palaces, two royal residences with rich historical and architectural significance. Learn about royal traditions and ceremonies as you stroll through the grand halls and gardens of these palaces. You can also witness the famous Changing of the Guard, an unmissable spectacle in front of Buckingham Palace.

Explore the Dark Side of London

If you're interested in history and mysteries, you can't miss the opportunity to explore the dark side of London. During the tours, you'll hear stories about the infamous Jack the Ripper and visit locations associated with his crimes. You'll also delve into the history of other historical figures who left their mark on the city, such as Guy Fawkes. Explore the darkest corners and listen to the most unsettling stories while learning about the places where these events took place.

Recommendations and Tips for Your Visit to London

Before joining one of our Free Tours in London, please consider the following recommendations to ensure you make the most of your experience:

• Wear comfortable and appropriate walking shoes, as the tours are on foot.
• Don't forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.
• Carry a jacket or raincoat in case of rain or bad weather.
• Remember to charge your mobile phone and bring an external battery for taking photos and staying connected.
• Take into account London's weather and check the weather forecast before heading out.

With these recommendations, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy an incredible Free Tour of London and make the most of your visit to the city.

ARE YOU GOING TO VISIT A CITY NEAR London?

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• Private Tours

City of London Tour

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• Pay what you can

• Duration: 2 hours
• Recommended for all ages
• Wheelchair friendly
• Guaranteed departure
• No need for bus/tube tickets
• Meeting point: Paternoster Square
• We accept card payments

Free Tour City of London

Do you want to uncover the secrets hidden within the City of London and explore its hidden alleys? Join our free walking tour through the old city of London. We’ll journey through almost two millennia of history, from the Roman invasion to the Great Fire . During this free tour, you’ll see important landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Guildhall , while discovering London ‘s ever-evolving history.

The reviews of those who participated in the tour

Free Tour Itinerary and Highlights

Here is a preview of our itinerary:

• we’ll start the tour at Paternoster Square , passing by the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral
• we’ll walk through Cheapside , where the important church of St Mary-le-Bow is located
• we’ll arrive at Bank , with the Bank of England , Mansion House , and the Royal Exchange
• we’ll explore the hidden alleys of the City
• we’ll see one of London’s most beautiful markets, Leadenhall Market
• we’ll end our tour at Monument, under the Monument to the Great Fire of London

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

When does your city of london tour run.

Our City of London Tour typically starts on various dates and at different times. Please check the calendar to find available dates and times

Where does your City of London tour start?

Our City of London tour starts under the Paternoster Square Column in Paternoster Square, EC1A 7BA, right next to St. Paul’s Cathedral

Where does this tour end?

This tour ends at the Monument to the Great Fire of London

How long is the tour expected to last?

The tour lasts for around 2 hours

How will I find your tour guide?

Look for the guide with our unique blue, red and white umbrella with our logo. You will receive more detailed instructions by email after your booking

What happens if it is raining?

We go out rain or shine, so if it’s drizzling please remember to bring a rain jacket or an umbrella. Only in case of unbearably inclement weather, the tour will be rescheduled and you will be contacted as soon as we can

Can I show up without booking?

Yes you can, but we highly recommend to make a booking which is absolutely free and it takes less than one minute. This is because in case of a very large group, for health and safety reasons we would need to accept participants with booking only and unfortunately if you have no booking we will have to send you home. Please note that we can’t take groups of more than 8 people on our free tours, if this is the case please get in touch with us here to enquire about a private tour [email protected]

What does 'Pay what you can' mean?

Wonders of London works on a pay what you feel basis, we understand that many of you have travelled various distances to get here, some of you might be locals, some of you might be on holiday here and we know that it can be difficult to enjoy all of London’s best attractions without spending a fair penny. We want our tours to be accessible to anyone and everyone so we don’t charge a ticket price but just bear in mind that are guides are working guides so we ask that at the end of the tour just have a think about what the tour was worth to you and pay however much or small you feel

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London Old City Free Walking Tour

Discover major London landmarks on this 3-hour London Old City Tour!

ABOUT THE London Old City Free Walking Tour

Learn about the original London, a mere one square mile beside the river Thames. This 2.5-hour walking tour includes must-see sites like the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, London Bridge and much more.

The Old City Tour starts in Temple Station and finishes by the Tower of London.  We never cancel; tours run rain, hail or shine.

Small streets and river walkways

When you think of London, chances are you think of a bustling city, with tall buildings and busy roads, but on this London walking tour, your expert guide will remind you that that wasn’t always the case. As you explore a maze of small streets, church courtyards and river walkways, you’ll see London in an entirely different light.

The original London

With history stretching back almost 2,000 years, your guide will bring London’s historic center to life. From the 12th Century Church of the Knights Templar, to the RAF Church and the World War II blitz, you’ll soon discover that much of London’s most fascinating history is jam-packed into one square mile.

Some of London’s most important landmarks

You’ll want to keep your camera at the ready, as you’ll discover many of London’s top highlights around every corner on this walking tour. From London Bridge to Tower Bridge, from St Paul’s Cathedral to the Tower of London, you’ll also find Mansion House, the Bank of England, the Royal Exchange and the Monument.

Gratuity-based Free Tour concept

The gratuity-based model of the Free Tour allows guests to support and reward only the highest quality tours, and to ensure that the tour fits within their expectations, and within their budget.

The London Old City Walking Tour starts at Temple Station

• Photograph the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral
• See two of London’s most important bridges, London Bridge and Tower Bridge
• Marvel at the impressive Tower of London (entrance tickets available for purchase)
• Discover the 12th Century Church of the Knights Templar
• Hear about the dark days of the World War II blitz at the RAF church
• Take in the sites of the Bank of England, Mansion House and more!

TOUR SCHEDULES

This tour doesn‘t run today

Click on 'See more dates' to check availability

• Local English-speaking guide
• Gratuities for the guide (optional)
• Wheelchair accessible
• Our business is connecting great guides and smart travelers, and we're proud that so many local guides employ us to welcome travelers like you on their journey through some of the world's best cities. No two tours are alike, and the sites, stories, and length of the tour will vary depending on what your freelance guide decides is best. That's why the tours we promote never get stale or feel scripted, and why both independent guides and savvy travelers prefer SANDEMANs

Customer reviews

GREAT TOUR!

Our tour guide (Charlotte from New Zealand) was a wonderful and informative tour guide. On my recent trip to Europe, I went on 11 tours through Sandeman, and THIS was by far my favorite. There were so many items I didn't know regarding "Old London" (the first beginning it is its own governing body) I was inspired to travel back to London just to spend more time in Old London. I'm not sure if our group was just slow walking or if we took more time in particular spots, but our tour ended up being around 3.5 hours, and Charlotte stuck it out to the end. Fantastic tour to see the old city, and get a better understanding of the history of how London came to raise.

A great walking tour with Jamie

Highly recommended walking tour through the old city of London (about 3 hrs). Our guide - Jamie - did a great job by giving us lots of interesting, funny and relevant facts about places we saw, as well as general recommendations to our visit. A great way to get familiar with London's main sites and history!

Old City London Tour

Had a great tour with Rob. He was very knowledgeable and had a huge amount of great info for us about all the stops along the way! Highly recommend!

Excellent tour of the City of London

Huge thanks to Jake for a very entertaining and knowledgeable tour of the Old City of London. Some interesting anecdotes - well worth the money.

Best Tour in London!!!

A friend and I went on the walking tour of the Old City of London yesterday with Ben and it was amazing! Ben was awesome; very knowledgeable and passionate about the city he is from! The 3 hours flew by! My husband and I are living in London for the next year and this is definitely a tour I will take our guests on! Definitely try to do tours with Ben!!

What is a gratuity-based Free Tour?

The gratuity-based Free Tour is the best introduction to London! A general overview tour including many of the highlights of the city, the Free Tour usually lasts around 3 hours and is provided by a local freelance guide in partnership with SANDEMANs NEW Europe, so tour content can vary depending on your guide’s particular area of interest and expertise.

The gratuity-based Free Tour is a walking tour with no need for public transport and is designed for independent travellers, not groups. You can book your spot in advance online or simply show up at the start point on the day. There is no payment necessary at the start of the tour but you are welcome to tip your guide at the end!

We believe in supporting local communities and are committed to giving a voice to some of London's best local freelance tour guides, who passionately share the city's history and culture with their own unique and always-entertaining style. They'll never pressure you to tip; we believe that, if money is given, it should be voluntary and in direct proportion to the quality of the tour and the budget of the traveller.

Why join the SANDEMANs FREE Tour?

• The route covers many of London's major landmarks
• The meeting point is centrally located in Covent Garden
• The Free Tour is guaranteed to fit within your budget
• The guides performing tips-based Free Tours are incentivized to perform every time

WALKING TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN LONDON

• Select Tour
• Private Tour

Free Tour of London

Book the original London free walking tour and visit many of the city's highlights with a local guid ...

Oxford Day Tour

A day tour from London to the beautiful and historic city of Oxford

London Street Art Tour

Join a 2.5-hour walk through East London to see and understand some of the city’s best street art

London Jack the Ripper Free Tour

Discover London’s darkest history – including Jack the Ripper – on this 2-hour walking tour

London Harry Potter Tour

Discover the magical world of Harry Potter with local experts

British Museum Small Group Tour

Enjoy a semi-private guided tour through some of the British Museum's most interesting artefacts

London Pub Crawl

Have a great night out in some of London's best bars and clubs!

Tell us the landmarks, stories or parts of the city you want to see, how long you have to see them and when you want to go, and we’ll build an itinerary that suits you.

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2-hour London Highlights Private Tour

Make the most out of your visit and discover London's main attractions with your private tour guide

3-hour London Private City Tour

Enjoy a comprehensive overview of London's fascinating history and must-see sites with your private ...

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Discover Official Walks & Talks

We offer daily, weekly and monthly walks around the city of london .

Our daily walks run from the City Information Centre, just south of St Paul's. You need to book via Eventbrite to secure you place.  Note : the cut-off time for booking our daily walks is 21:00hrs the night before. If we don't have any bookings then the walk will not take place.

Our weekly walks have individual booking pages and earlier cut-off times, please see the individual listing.  

We've adde d 3 new walks for this season:

Secrets and Symbols, News from Fleet Street, and From Shakespeare to Oscar Wilde

Billingsgate Roman House and Baths open 

This unique site is now open for this season of tours.  Find out more.

Leadenhall Market: Beer, Bread and Beans!

This is a limited-edition, evening tour exploring the history of food and drink in and around the market in May and June.  Find out more

Private tours

If you'd like to organise your own walk , lecture or a virtual tour, then please use our  Find a Guide  section. If you're a member of an Arts Society or a U3A or other group we'd love to take you on a tour of the City. And if you're a company based in the City who'd like to organise a social event for your work colleagues, why not book a walk with us? 

If you've been on a walk recently we'd love to hear from you. Why not leave a review on our TripAdvisor  page? We've been awarded TripAdvisor's Travellers' Choice for 2023!

Secrets and Symbols Guided Walk: Tuesdays

Find out dates & details

From Shakespeare to Oscar Wilde Guided Walk: Fridays

News from Fleet Street Guided Walk: Sundays

The 'Old Bailey': Saturdays

Leadenhall Market - Beer, Bread and Beans!

Billingsgate Roman House and Baths Guided Tours: Saturdays

Guildhall: Monthly Tours

Smithfield Market Tours

Dr. Samuel Johnson Guided Walks: Twice Monthly

City Highlights Guided Walk: Mondays

Mansion House Guided Tours: Tuesdays

City in Spires - A Tour of Wren Churches: Tuesdays

In Charles Dickens' Footsteps: Wednesdays

Roman London Tour: Thurs & Sun

St Bartholomew's Hospital Guided Tour: Fridays

Dark Side of the City Guided Walk: Fridays

London's Burning Walking Tour: Saturdays

London's River Walk: Saturdays

Guildhall Art Gallery & Roman Amphitheatre: Tues, Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun

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Historic London Pub Tour

Tour Information

Historic london pub tour highlights.

Join us on the City of London pub tour to see the most; iconic, historic, and unusual pubs in London.

You will get to experience London like a true local visiting some of London's best traditional pubs and hidden gems with an entertaining local guide.

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Click here to view our full selection of free London walking tours .

We will explore secret alleyways and hear Tales from some of London’s greatest pubs, from where people have imbibed for over 500 years.

We will learn about the origin of London's famed Gin Palaces of the 19th Century as we wander through streets that would have been home to beggars, thieves, and vagabonds.

We'll discover five iconic watering holes visited by some of London's most infamous characters, each with a history to tell.

These include some of the best-preserved traditional pubs in England.

Each pub we visit will have a very different atmosphere and history but all share a fine offering of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in a wonderful building.

Highlights:

• Visit pubs frequented by London's most famous poets, writers, and free thinkers!
• Follow in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth I and visit the hardest-to-find pub in London.
• Explore parts of London as a local and get away from the tourist crowd.
• Drink in a pub that has actual jail cells in the basement from medieval times.
• See the first Irish Pub outside of Ireland.
• Hear the tales of and visit some of the famed Victorian Gin Palaces!

What else you should know

It's a walking tour, but there's not a lot of distance involved.

Having said that, the alleys can be very narrow and there are a small number of steps to climb throughout. Wear comfortable shoes! 

Pubs will accept cash or card payments for drinks as you prefer. You will need to pay for your own drinks during the tour!

This is a tour for guests aged 18 and over only.

What to bring : Photographic ID (18 years and over only) .

Where: Outside The Blackfriar Pub (opposite Blackfriars Station - North of the river Thames). The tour finishes near Holborn Station.

Duration: Approximately 2.5 - 3 Hours

When:  Wednesdays at 16:00 Book online HERE .

Cost: This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A name-your-own-price tour is a tour for anyone's budget.

The average cost of a pint is £7.

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

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Walks and itineraries

Find out more about walks on the new City of London visitor website.

Free City of London Tour

• Hear about the Great Fire which devastated most of the city, and how three centuries later it was devastated once again.
• Discover the origins of this great metropolis and understand how it became the world’s financial capital .
• Learn about how the City of London has remained independent and free for the last 1000 years.

Tour Calendar

Latest reviews, see all tours in london.

Free Tours in Your Language

Free Tour - Free Tour London › Free City of London Tour

Other Tours in London

Guides Leading this Tour

Overview of the tour in London

Turn back the clock 2000 years and join us as we trace the journey of the City of London, from the arrival of Julius Caesar and its roots as a square mile trading village along the River Thames, all the way to becoming the financial capital of Europe, home to dozens of the quirkiest glass skyscrapers on Earth. Along the way, you will hear stories of the Viking occupation, William the Conqueror's Norman Conquest, the construction of London's medieval fortress, the devastation of Great Fire, the destruction of the Blitz, captured perfectly by a bombed-out church, and the resilience and bravery of the people who lived through it and so much more! Nowhere else in London is the clash of ancient crumbling icons and trailblazing modern architecture so obvious, with huge skyscrapers and historic 12th-century churches standing proudly, shoulder to shoulder. How can one self-governing little square mile, with ancient laws created by its council and imposed by its police force, stand so separately from everything around it?

This activity includes:

• Bank of England
• Tower of London
• Trinity Square Gardens
• Monument to the Great Fire of London
• St. Paul's Cathedral

Meeting point

Tower Hill Tram, Trinity Square, London, UK

The tour begins directly outside Tower Hill Station, in front of the food truck called 'Tower Hill Tram'. Look for the guide carrying a red umbrella.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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Breaking breaking news, media player.

Blood on pavement and smashed vehicles after horses tear through London

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Play video Watch: How runaway horses caused chaos in London from BBC Watch: How runaway horses caused chaos in London

Play video People calm horse near smashed tour bus from BBC People calm horse near smashed tour bus

Play video Listen: BBC reporter describes what he saw this morning when horses raced through London from BBC Listen: BBC reporter describes what he saw this morning when horses raced through London

Play video Runaway horses filmed racing through central London from BBC Runaway horses filmed racing through central London

Play audio Eyewitnesses describe runaway horses in central London from BBC Radio London Eyewitnesses describe runaway horses in central London

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Live Reporting

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Edited by Siobhan Toman

All times stated are UK

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We're ending our live coverage now

Siobhan Toman

Live editor

Thanks for joining us. You can watch a video with all the dramatic moments of the horses' breakaway this morning here .

And find more details on this story here .

This page was edited by me, with updates from Ian Aikman, Joe McFadden and Ece Goksedef.

An unexpected morning in London

We'll be finishing up our coverage shortly but here's some of the key developments from an unexpected event:

• Four people were injured after five horses, spooked by noise from a building site, bolted through central London
• London Ambulance Service responded to several calls at three scenes, all taking place between 08:25 and 08:35 BST
• The Army says three soldiers sustained non-life threatening injuries and are being treated in hospital - the BBC understands the fourth person injured was a cyclist
• All five horses have been returned to Hyde Park Barracks and are being looked after by vets
• Police Inspector Myles Hilbery has praised the "courageous actions" of officers who calmed the horses, provided first aid and kept roads clear for horse boxes to arrive to transport the animals to safety
• Several vehicles, including a tour bus, were damaged during the horses' sprint through central London, which began near Buckingham Palace and ended in Limehouse
• Some eyewitnesses initially thought the events were part of a film shoot or a car accident after horses sped past, with one apparently bleeding

In pictures: Aftermath of horses' gallop through London

All five horses which broke away from riders are back in Hyde Park Barracks and being cared for by vets, the Army says.

Photos show some of the moments of their journey and the aftermath.

Army thanks emergency services and public

Lt. Col. Woodward goes on to say the army's "immediate priority" was the safety of "all soldiers, members of the public and our horses".

He thanks a long list of emergency service providers who were involved in handling the incident this morning.

He says their quick reaction enabled "swift treatment" of the injured soldiers and horses.

Finally, he says that incidents like this are "extremely rare" and says the army is grateful to the public for "not making loud noise around our horses."

Colonel says building materials 'dropped from a height' next to horses

Lieutenant Colonel Matt Woodward, commanding officer of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, has spoken about this morning's events - shedding a bit more light on what exactly caused the horses to bolt.

In a video the British Army posted to X (formerly known as Twitter) Lt. Col. Woodward says "a small group of horses" were spooked by some construction works on a quiet Belgravia side road.

He says building materials were "dropped from a height right next to them".

What happens at the King's Birthday Parade?

Sean Coughlan

BBC News royal correspondent

The Household Cavalry, jangling up the Mall, are an important part of the King’s official birthday parade.

It’s a big, tourist-friendly event in June, with its annual Trooping the Colour ceremony.

And if these runaway horses were getting ready for that parade, then they would have been preparing for an event that must really test their temperament.

Pressing in along the route will be crowds, cameras and all the commotion of a summer’s day out.

Last year, in his first parade as monarch, King Charles was on a horse that certainly got lively with all the pressure. It was variously described as “frisky”, “spicy” and “unruly” by commentators.

And going back to the preparations ahead of the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022, when the media encampment was being set up, a soldier was thrown from his horse outside Buckingham Palace. An embarrassingly public place, but these things happen.

Police inspector praises 'courageous actions' of officers

Here's Inspector Hilbery's statement in full:

“This was a dynamic incident and the courageous actions taken by police officers from our Roads Policing team prevented further harm and distress to the horses and members of the public.

"Police Constables Lucy Hawes and Daniel McKeown risked their own safety to provide first aid to the injured and anxious horses. They kept the horses calm while waiting for a horse box and veterinary team to arrive.

“PCs Brett Daniels and Chris Wilson took over management of traffic control on the busy arterial road enabling PCs Rob Bray and Shaun Gurney on motorbikes to create a clear path for the horses to be safely led into the horse box and escorted back to the Army barracks for urgent medical care.

“Our thoughts are with those people and horses injured in the incident.”

Police 'risked own safety' to calm horses

We've now received a statement from the City of London Police's Inspector Myles Hilbery, which gives us a bit more detail about how two of the horses were recovered.

He talks about the moment officer from the City of London Police and the Metropolitan Police located and stopped two horses near Limehouse.

He says the horses were "injured and anxious" and says officers "risked their own safety" to provide them with first aid and keep them calm.

Breaking Army update on injured horses and soldiers

An Army spokesman has told the BBC:

“Our horses have all returned to Hyde Park Barracks and are undergoing veterinary care. Three soldiers are in hospital receiving treatment – their injuries are not deemed to be life threatening."

The BBC understands the fourth person injured was a cyclist and member of the public.

Three soldiers among those injured, says Army

An Army spokesperson has just told us three soldiers were injured and taken to hospital this morning.

A fourth soldier was thrown from their horse, but they were unharmed.

The London Ambulance Service says it treated four injured people in total and took four people to hospital after the incident.

Ambulance service responded to 'several calls' this morning

We've had a new statement from the London Ambulance Service, which gives a bit more detail about the kind of resources that were dispatched this morning while the horses ran loose.

To recap, we already knew the ambulance service treated four patients at three locations, and those patients were taken to hospital. That still stands.

Here's the latest statement in full:

"We responded to several calls regarding an incident with horses on the loose in central London this morning (24 April).

“We sent multiple resources to the three scenes including ambulance crews, paramedics in response cars, and an incident response officer.

"We treated four patients in total and took them all to hospital and have now been stood down.”

What are cavalry horses?

The horses of the Household Cavalry often have a prominent role in royal ceremonies in the UK.

According to forces.net, the horses are chosen for their height (at least 168cm) and strength as they need to be able to carry a soldier plus kit for a long period of time.

The horses are trained for several months and ridden on the streets of London to get used to heavy traffic and loud noises, including gun salutes and military bands.

Each horse is usually assigned to one specific soldier.

What we know about this morning's horse drama

Central London has now quietened down following this morning's scenes. Here's what we know so far:

• Four people have been taken to hospital after five runaway horses raced through central London
• Noise from a building site in Belgravia startled the horses and caused them to bolt, unseating the riders
• The horses are "working horses" and belong to the Household Cavalry - they were preparing to be inspected ahead of reheasals for the King's birthday parade, which is due to take place in June
• The horses collided with traffic in several locations and some ran as far as Limehouse in east London
• All five horses now have been recovered, but we are still waiting for more information on their condition and the condition of the four injured people

We'll keep bringing you updates.

Horses collided with vehicles while running loose

Five Household Cavalry horses were spooked by noise from a building site near Buckingham Palace this morning, unseating their riders and running through London, an Army spokesman told the BBC.

All the horses have now been recovered but during their high-speed run through the city several are believed to have collided with vehicles.

We do not yet have details of how badly injured any of the horses are.

'The horses were really galloping'

A witness who saw two of the escaped horses running through London told the BBC it looked like a film set:

"I saw two horses, a white horse and a dark horse. The white horse was covered in blood.

"They were going really really fast, really galloping down the road. Other people around me were really shocked. I thought I was watching a film at first."

Clean-up crews in area where two horses were found

Michael Sheils McNamee

Live reporter, Limehouse

Shortly before midday, clean-up workers from TFL arrived at the scene in Limehouse where two horses were recovered.

One of the men said they had also attended the scene where a different horse crashed into a tour bus in central London.

He explained that they normally attend other types of traffic accidents.

Some residents nearby said they heard disruption outside but did not think the horse had been in distress.

One woman and her granddaughter, who did not want to be named, said they saw the ambulances and crew arrive to retrieve the horses - but there were no obvious signs of distress.

Listen: BBC reporter describes what he saw this morning

The BBC's Tony Bonsignore spoke to BBC Radio London earlier this morning.

He describes the scene when riderless horses were unexpectedly seen running through central London.

Video content

Witnesses initially thought incident was a car accident.

Grace Whitaker, 23, told the BBC she had just got off a bus on her way to work when she saw several emergency services vehicles near Victoria Station.

“I saw about five fire engines, six ambulances," she said.

“I saw one of the horses that was involved, saw some members of the army. It was quite the scene with lots of emergency services around putting up cordons.

“One of the black horses was there. I thought maybe it was a police horse that had come to attend to the scene but obviously I now know it was one of the horses that had escaped.

“There was a blue tent around what I assume was an injured person.

“I saw what looked like a taxi van that had damage to it, a smashed window. I think everyone’s immediate impression was that somebody had been hit by a car. We were quite surprised when we realised it was to do with horses.”

Watch: People calm horse near smashed tour bus

This video shows one of the horses with members of the public shortly after it ran through London streets.

It appears to be calm, but a smashed windscreen on a nearby tour bus shows how fast the animals had been running once they unseated their riders.

'People were tending to the horse'

We're hearing from some of the Londoners who saw the loose horses this morning.

Alex Barnes, 24, did a double-take as one of the runaway horses galloped past him as he exited Victoria Station.

“I thought, ‘I swear that was a horse’. But it was pretty early and I was still half asleep so I wasn’t sure if it was.

“So I went to check it out and as I turned the corner there was a massive, loud crash and the horse had gone head on with a parked bus.

“The horse was standing in the middle of the road quite shocked. It was pretty horrible to be honest and the horse was bleeding quite a lot but a few people were trying to tend to it and get it out of the road.

“It’s not what you expect to see when you are going to work in the morning, definitely not.”

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