Secret Gardens of the City of London Private Tour

Explore London’s Hidden Garden Gems with a Private Guide

If you’re tired of the typical tourist crowds and want a quieter, more intimate look at London’s lesser-known spots, the Secret Gardens of the City of London Private Tour is perfect. For around $240 per person, you’ll spend about three hours walking through tucked-away parks, ancient ruins, and historic gardens—places even many locals rarely see. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this experience combines history, tranquility, and an authentic side of London that many visitors miss.

What we love most about this tour is the blend of peaceful green spaces with fascinating historic stories. Each stop feels like uncovering a secret chapter of the city’s past, from Roman ruins to medieval churches. Second, the personalized attention of a private guide means you can ask questions freely and enjoy a flexible, tailored experience.

One potential consideration is the pace. With many stops packed into three hours, you’ll want to keep a comfortable walking speed and be prepared for some uneven surfaces—think cobblestones and garden paths. This tour suits travelers who appreciate historical detail, peaceful settings, and don’t mind a bit of walking. It’s especially ideal for those who love discovering the quieter, often overlooked corners of London.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with your own guide, allowing flexibility and tailored storytelling.
• Historical and Cultural Insights: Discover hidden gardens with stories of London’s past, from Roman times to WWII.
• Accessible to Enthusiasts of All Levels: Moderate walking, manageable for most, with some uneven surfaces.
• In-Depth Itinerary: Includes notable sites like Christ Church Greyfriars, Postman’s Park, and St. Olave’s Church.
• Great for Quiet Moments: Perfect for travelers seeking serenity amid the city’s bustle.
• Excellent Value: Combines several lesser-known sites in an efficient, well-organized three-hour walk.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour provides a thoughtful exploration of London’s secret green spaces, ancient ruins, and historic churches, offering an experience beyond the usual sightseeing.

Whittington Park

The tour begins in Whittington Park, dedicated to the famous Lord Mayor of London, who, among many deeds, built the nearby church. It’s a peaceful spot, often overlooked, offering a quiet start and great photo opportunities of the surrounding architecture. Reviewers note the inclusion of this park as a highlight, with Ruth commenting, “Kevin was a great tour guide with lots of historical information to share,” and the garden’s tranquility making it a perfect introductory stop.

St. Dunstan In The East

Next, you’ll visit St. Dunstan In The East, a ruined church turned into a beautiful garden. Its historic ruins, combined with lush greenery, create a striking contrast. We loved the way this site combines history with nature, making it feel like a secret garden amid the city’s chaos. Visitors often remark on how this is “the most beautiful ruin in the old City of London,” according to one review, and how it’s a spot where you can truly breathe out.

All Hallows By The Tower

From there, the tour leads to All Hallows By The Tower, the city’s oldest church with an archway dating back centuries. The stones beneath your feet tell stories of Roman London, visible through an ancient pavement. This stop is especially meaningful because it ties the modern city to its Roman roots, with Stephen noting the significance of walking on an old Roman pavement many feet beneath modern streets.

St Olave’s Church

One of the tour’s highlights is St Olave’s Church, a survivor of London’s great fires, plagues, and bombings. Its lush garden offers a rare quiet respite. The church’s resilience echoes through history, and visitors have praised the guide’s storytelling for bringing this place alive. It’s a rare chance to experience a living piece of London’s history.

Garden at 120

The newest addition, London’s Sky Garden at 120, offers stunning panoramic views of the city, a modern contrast to the historic sites. While sometimes busy, most visitors find it worth the visit for the spectacular vistas. The fact that it can accommodate 207 visitors means there’s a good chance you’ll get in, but it’s smart to go early or later if possible.

St Mary Aldermanbury Garden

Here, you see a garden with ties to William Shakespeare and Winston Churchill, adding literary and political layers to the experience. Reviewers fondly mention its historical connections, appreciating the chance to reflect amid historic memorials.

St. Lawrence Jewry

This small, almost hidden church in the old Jewish district was rebuilt after WWII, symbolizing resilience. It’s a site full of stories about London’s diverse communities and their survival.

Churchyard of St John Zachary

A sunken garden with a mix of ancient and old stories, this site provides a quiet, contemplative space. Reviewers find it charming and full of history, especially noting its peaceful atmosphere.

Church of St. Bartholomew the Great

Often called London’s most well-preserved medieval church, this site includes a garden that was also a plague pit. It’s a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the city’s past hardships, with Kevin giving vivid stories from its history.

Christchurch Greyfriars Church Garden

Here, you’ll see a memorial garden dedicated to those lost in The Blitz and WWII, providing a sobering but important reflection. The garden’s serenity makes it a fitting place to pause.

Postman’s Park

This underrated park features touching memorials to everyday heroes—ordinary Londoners who performed extraordinary deeds. Visitors often mention how the memorials evoke genuine emotion and offer a different perspective on history.

Guildhall

Ending in the heart of the city, you’ll stand atop the remains of a Roman amphitheatre—an impressive way to connect London’s ancient past to its present. The site’s significance is clear, and reviewers say the guide’s storytelling brings it vividly to life.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Beyond the itinerary, this tour’s real value lies in the expertise of your guide. Multiple reviewers praised guides like Kevin and Stephen for their knowledge, personable attitude, and ability to tell engaging stories. One reviewer said, “Kevin was amazing!!! My son and I had the best morning walking through the square mile,” highlighting how personal attention can enhance the experience.

The private format is a game-changer. It’s ideal if you want to control the pace, ask questions freely, or simply enjoy a more intimate experience. Many reviews mention how this added to the enjoyment, with Kevin or Stephen adjusting the tour based on their interests.

The balance of historic sites, peaceful gardens, and quiet parks makes this tour a refreshing break from typical sightseeing. It’s perfect for those interested in London’s layered history, from Roman times through to modern memorials.

Practical Details

Starting at Caffè Nero on Newgate Street around 9:30 AM, the tour includes hotel pickup if preferred, though most opt for the meeting point for convenience. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must, and moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially for uneven surfaces. The tour is 100% private, so only your group will participate, ensuring a relaxed and personalized experience.

While the tour is designed for safety, especially during health concerns like COVID-19, it involves visiting quiet, outdoor locations where social distancing is manageable. The guide will also have masks available if you choose to wear one.

The cost of $240 may seem high, but considering the personalized approach, expert storytelling, and access to hidden sites, most agree it offers excellent value. The 3-hour duration packs in a lot of sights, making it an efficient way to see London’s secret side without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys history, architecture, and peaceful green spaces, this private tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an authentic, quiet experience rather than crowded tourist spots. Those with a curiosity for London’s layered past—from Roman times to WWII—will find plenty to love here.

Families or groups seeking a personalized, flexible experience will appreciate the private guide, who can tailor the stories and pace. It’s also a great choice for visitors who want insider knowledge and a chance to see hidden corners that many visitors overlook.

This tour is not for those looking for a fast-paced, high-energy sightseeing spree. Instead, it’s perfect for those who prefer meaningful encounters with history and nature in a relaxed, intimate setting. If you appreciate stories behind the sites and enjoy discovering serene green spaces in the heart of the city, this tour will leave you with a deeper appreciation for London’s quieter, more contemplative side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour involves walking at a moderate pace and visits accessible outdoor sites. Some uneven surfaces may require a bit of balance, so moderate fitness is recommended.

What is included in the tour price?
The fee covers a local, professional guide, hotel pickup if needed, and admission to all the sites listed. It’s a private tour, so only your group participates.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, covering multiple sites and gardens in central London.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge by notifying at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Are there any restrictions or requirements?
The tour is suitable for most travelers with moderate physical fitness. Masks are available, and social distancing is encouraged, especially during health concerns.

Is transportation needed between sites?
No, the tour is walking-based. The guide will lead you on a route that emphasizes pedestrian-friendly paths.

To sum it up, the Secret Gardens of the City of London Private Tour offers a rich, personal insight into London’s most peaceful, historic, and often hidden spots. It’s best suited for curious travelers who value storytelling, quiet green spaces, and authentic local experiences. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and see a quieter, more reflective side of London, this tour is an excellent choice.