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City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire

13 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 13 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| London, England
Book online or call us

from $20.46 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Duke Wellington at the Royal Exchange
On the tour
Ancient and historical Medieval church still beautiful today
The Roman wall that was built twice more by two different civilisations
14th Century ruins with an even older story to tell!
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 19 (0) days in advance.
2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

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

  • Multilingual - Just tell us the language in advance
  • Gain a unique history of the City of London
  • PDF Overview of Tour

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    2 London Wall Place
    Barbican, London EC2Y 5AU, UK

    Show on Google Maps

    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    1 Cornhill
    London EC3V 3LN, UK

    We conclude inside the circle of dragons that made the City of London as we know it today.

    What To Expect

    Book Online

    Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
    Read more

    Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

    St. Alphage London Wall

    We begin our journey in the Salters garden where the history of many peoples converge from Roman to Norman.
    Read more

    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Roman city wall

    The oldest part of the wall is this Fort.
    Read more

    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    St. Giles Cripplegate

    One of the oldest mediaeval churches in the City since Norman time that was once the site of older Saxon Church.
    Read more

    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Salter's Hall Garden

    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).
    Read more

    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Brewers' Hall

    The livery company that set the standard for booze!
    Read more

    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    St Mary Aldermanbury Garden

    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.
    Read more

    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    City of London

    The municipal governing body of the City of London and the historic centre of London.
    Read more

    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Guildhall

    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.
    Read more

    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    St. Lawrence Jewry

    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.
    Read more

    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Guildhall Art Gallery

    Location of the Roman Amphitheatre
    Read more

    25 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    St. Margaret Lothbury Church

    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.
    Read more

    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    The Royal Exchange

    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!
    Read more

    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Mansion House of City of London

    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.
    Read more

    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    London Troops War Memorial

    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.
    Read more

    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Bank of England

    We take at look at this most influential, traditional but still very forward looking institution. The Golden statue on top tells an interesting story.
    Read more

    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Show 14 more stops

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Frequently Asked Questions (7)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire?

    A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (GMT). Read more Apr 2025

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-391563P3

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    5.00
    13 reviews

    Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 13 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

    5 stars
    13
    4 stars
    0
    3 stars
    0
    2 stars
    0
    1 star
    0
    Don't miss out!
    On average, this is booked 19 (0) days in advance.
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    Frequently Asked Questions (7)

    Activity name

    The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

    Filter by:

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire?
    A:
    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
    • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
    • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
    • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
    • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (GMT).
    Apr 2025
    Q: What's included in the price?
    A:
    The following is included:
    • Multilingual - Just tell us the language in advance.
    • Gain a unique history of the City of London.
    • PDF Overview of Tour.
    Apr 2025
    Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
    A:

    The minimum age to participate is 8..

    Apr 2025
    Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
    A:

    If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

    If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

    Apr 2025
    Q: Is this an accessible tour?
    A:

    Accessibility information for the City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire is as follows:

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • 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
    Apr 2025
    Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
    A:

    Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for City of London History Tour: Origin to Empire will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

     

     

    Mar 2024
    Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
    A:

    Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

    Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

    If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

    Oct 2026

    What's Included

    Activity name

    • Multilingual - Just tell us the language in advance
    • Gain a unique history of the City of London
    • PDF Overview of Tour

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • 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
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 60 travelers

    Report Product Issue

    Activity name