Secret Old London Walking Tour

Exploring London’s Hidden Dark Corners: The Secret Old London Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see London that’s a little off the beaten path, the Secret Old London Walking Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s shadowy past. For just around $24, you’ll spend 1.5 hours wandering through neighborhoods that have seen everything from Black Death burial pits to Roman ruins and medieval execution sites. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone eager to see a more gritty, authentic side of London.

What makes this tour stand out are the detailed stories your guide shares, making history come alive, and the atmospheric locations—from ancient churches to open park spaces that hold poignant memorials. It’s an ideal way to get a deeper understanding of London’s darker chapters, beyond the typical tourist highlights.

One consideration to keep in mind is the pace of the tour—with about an hour and a half of walking, you’ll want comfortable shoes and a good sense of curiosity. Also, the tour is suitable for those over 12, so it’s family-friendly but not geared toward very young children.

If you love history, storytelling, and uncovering hidden city secrets, this tour is likely to be a rewarding experience you’ll remember. Now, let’s take a closer look at what you can expect on this journey through London’s shadowy history.

Key Points

• Authentic Hidden Spots: Walk through timeless streets and locations unseen by most travelers.
• Dark and Gritty History: Learn about London’s Black Death, executions, and Roman past.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Rosie and Pepe bring history to life with lively stories.
• Atmospheric Settings: Visit medieval churchyards, memorial parks, and the shell of a Blitz-damaged church.
• Affordable and Flexible: At just over $24, the tour offers great value, with flexible booking options.
• Accessible and Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers over 12 and wheelchair accessible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Secret Old London Walking Tour

Navigating London’s Hidden History

Starting outside the Barbican Underground Station, this walk takes you through parts of London that echo centuries of unrest, resilience, and stories of sacrifice. The tour’s prime focus is on areas that have retained their medieval and Tudor charm, yet are still layered with stories of horror and heroism.

One of the tour’s highlights is the stop at Charterhouse Square, a peaceful-looking park that once served as a Black Death dumping ground. Its quiet atmosphere starkly contrasts with its grim past, giving you a real sense of how history lurks beneath tranquil surfaces. Nearby, you’ll find Smithfield, an open space with a history of medieval jousts and public executions—think of the echoes of screams and the clang of swords, which your guide will vividly describe.

Discovering Ancient Churches and Memorials

One of the most striking sites is St. Bartholomew the Great, a medieval church that has survived the centuries and even appeared in movies like Four Weddings & a Funeral and Sherlock Holmes. Its ancient stone walls and quiet cloisters give a tangible sense of history. The tour also takes you to a shell of a church destroyed during the Blitz, a poignant reminder of London’s resilience and the scars left by war.

A touching moment comes at a memorial park—a space that holds a moving tribute to those who sacrificed themselves. The stories of heroism and tragedy make this walk not only educational but emotionally resonant as well.

Tracing the Roman Roots and Darker Episodes

The tour points out the perimeter of a Roman amphitheatre, a rare chance to imagine what life was like in Londinium’s earliest days. Standing near these ancient ruins, you get a sense of how London has been shaped over millennia—layer upon layer of history beneath your feet.

Peering into the shell of a church destroyed in London’s Blitz is especially impactful for those interested in 20th-century history, providing a visceral connection to the city’s resilience during wartime.

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Guides Making History Come Alive

The reviews repeatedly praise the guides’ knowledge and storytelling skills. Rosie, for instance, is noted for her ability to make history “come alive again,” blending facts with lively anecdotes. Pepe’s enthusiasm and expertise have also been commended as “a real star,” making the experience both fun and deeply informative.

With small groups and personable guides, you’ll find the tour engaging and accessible, with plenty of time for questions and interactions.

The Experience: A Walk Through Guts and Glory

Throughout the walk, you’ll encounter sites of gruesome executions, such as the spot where William Wallace was said to have been executed—though some reviews mention slight discrepancies (like the Wallace mention). Still, the overall atmosphere of past violence is palpable, thanks to detailed guides who paint vivid pictures of the suffering and sacrifice that shaped London.

You’ll also pass through medieval streets that have remained unchanged for centuries, giving you an authentic sense of the city’s layered history. The tour’s pacing is praised as “great” by many, enabling you to absorb details without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Practical Details and Value

At just over $24, this tour offers excellent value for anyone interested in history and authentic London experiences. It’s a short, concentrated walk—perfect for a late morning or early afternoon adventure—making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Starting at the Barbican and ending back at the same spot, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers over 12. Bring comfortable shoes, since you’ll be walking on cobbled streets and uneven surfaces.

While refreshments aren’t included, the area around Barbican offers plenty of cafes if you want to grab a coffee afterward.

What Travelers Are Saying

The consistent praise from participants highlights the knowledgeable guides and the stunning, atmospheric sites. Comments like “the guide made this tour really interesting” and “we learned so much about London’s history” demonstrate that the experience is both fun and educational. Many reviewers mention how the tour changed their perception of familiar spots, transforming them into layers of stories and secrets.

A few noted minor disappointments—such as the absence of specific details like William Wallace’s appearance—but overall, travelers find this tour to be a highly enriching way to explore London’s darker corners.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you enjoy history, storytelling, and atmospheric locations. It’s especially suited to travelers who prefer small-group walks and want a more authentic, less commercialized side of London. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts eager to uncover the city’s darker chapters, but also accessible enough for families over 12 seeking an engaging, educational outing.

If you’re interested in medieval sites, Roman history, or WWII memorials, you’ll find plenty to love here. And with the affordable price point and flexible booking, it’s an easy addition to any London itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable and engaging experience without taking up an entire day.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It starts outside Barbican Underground Station and finishes back at the same meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for those over 12 years old.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more visitors to experience London’s dark past.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, refreshments are not included, so you might want to bring water or plan for a break afterward.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is it possible to book now and pay later?
Absolutely, the tour offers a “Reserve now & pay later” option, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

Do guides speak languages other than English?
The tour is conducted in English, but the reviews highlight guides’ excellent storytelling and clarity.

In The Sum Up

For those craving an authentic, slightly macabre side of London, the Secret Old London Walking Tour delivers. It’s a well-priced, thoughtfully guided adventure that takes you through some of the city’s most atmospheric and historically significant sites. Expect to walk through streets that whisper stories of plague victims, medieval executions, and Roman legacies, all brought to life by passionate guides.

The tour’s focus on atmosphere, storytelling, and authentic sites makes it ideal for history buffs, curious explorers, or anyone interested in seeing a different side of London. Its affordability, accessibility, and high praise from past travelers suggest this is a must-do experience for anyone keen on uncovering London’s hidden stories.

If you’re ready to step into London’s shadows, don’t miss this chance to walk through the city’s past—and maybe imagine some of its darkest moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: