City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire
At a glance
City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire is a 2h 30m guided experience in London, United Kingdom, operated by Dragon Lore. Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 12 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $20.19 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Multilingual - Just tell us the language in advance, Gain a unique history of the City of London, PDF Overview of Tour.
Highlights
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 15 stops in one well-planned itinerary
- Wheelchair accessible
Quick facts
- Duration
- 2h 30m
- Group
- Small group, up to 60 travellers
- Languages
- English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
The origin story of London, the City that shaped the world's greatest empire, sparked the Industrial Revolution, and created the model for modern central banks.
Its history began over a millennium before Westminster Abbey was built, with the Roman invasion and the construction of the Wall to protect this vital settlement.
Within these ancient boundaries, unique traditions and resilience flourished, transforming London into a global powerhouse.
Highlights:
• Trace London’s evolution from Celtic roots through Roman, Saxon, Viking, and Norman eras.
• Discover its defiance against royal authority and role in shaping democracy.
• Explore the birthplace of the Magna Carta and its transformation into a world empire.
• Witness resilience through plague, fire, and revolution.
• Learn about the dragon emblem and its enduring significance.
Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike, this expert-guided tour brings to life London’s fascinating past and enduring legends.
What's included
What's included
- Multilingual - Just tell us the language in advance
- Gain a unique history of the City of London
- PDF Overview of Tour
Itinerary
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Stop 1 · 15m
We begin our journey in the Salters garden where the history of many peoples converge from Roman to Norman.
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Stop 2 · 10m
The oldest part of the wall is this Fort.
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Stop 3 · 10m
One of the oldest mediaeval churches in the City since Norman time that was once the site of older Saxon Church.
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Stop 4 · 10m
The Roman wall is the physical structure that helped fortify the City of London from outside influence ever since the Romans built it.
We also delve into the Celtic people. The indigenous people of these lands and the ones who made it necessary for the Romans to fortify Londinium with the wall!
Having set the scene we look to the Salter's Hall to delve into the history of London's history of Trade, Governance, and Sacrifice through the years. The Salter's Hall being ranked 9th among the 12 most important Livery companies (formerly known as Guilds). -
Stop 5 · 10m
The livery company that set the standard for booze!
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Stop 6 · 10m
The ruins of this ancient church derives its name from the ancient court or bery of the aldermen, which is now held at the Guildhall. The garden today hosts memorials to a Shakespeare and two legends of two different Livery companies.
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Stop 7 · 5m
The municipal governing body of the City of London and the historic centre of London.
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Stop 8 · 15m
The town hall of the City of London has been on its current site since at least the 13th century. We take a look at it's history and mythology since Greek through to Roman, Saxon and Norman influences.
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Stop 9 · 5m
The official church of the City of London Corporation remembers the saint the saint who helped Christianity to flourish with a sacrifice that was unforgettably cruel.
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Stop 10 · 25m
Location of the Roman Amphitheatre
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Stop 11 · 5m
This Church represents two of the Wards of the City of London and we look at how livery companies came by their naming as 'Worshipful' companies.
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Stop 12 · 5m
Built by a legend for adventurers to meet. These men went onto shape the new world.
We also find out about what the the golden grasshopper is doing on top of it! -
Stop 13 · 5m
At the head of govenance is The Lord Mayor of the City of London. In addition he is an international ambassador for the UK's financial and professional services sector. This is his home.
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Stop 14 · 10m
Inside a circle of 12 dragon (lamposts) representing the 12 great livery companies we highlight some of the notable figures remembered around this area and then we conclude, returning to the story of Minotaur.
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Stop 15 · 5m
We take at look at this most influential, traditional but still very forward looking institution. The Golden statue on top tells an interesting story.
Meeting point
Meet outside Barbie Green restaurant next to the Ruins.
You will recognize me by my longish hair & beard, and you'll see a felt image of a green dragon on my backpack.
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire take?
The experience lasts about 2h 30m.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $20.19 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Multilingual - Just tell us the language in advance; Gain a unique history of the City of London; PDF Overview of Tour.
Where does it start?
Meet outside Barbie Green restaurant next to the Ruins. You will recognize me by my longish hair & beard, and you'll see a felt image of a green dragon on my backpack.
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 12 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in London.
