London: Money & Power – Babylon to Bitcoin Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the fascinating interplay of money, magic, and power through the lens of London’s iconic financial district—the Square Mile. On this walking tour, uncover what money truly is at its essence and track its incredible journey from ancient clay to digital tablets. Discover how myth, ritual, and commerce have shaped the City of London into a global powerhouse.
Tour Highlights:
- Step inside a hidden Roman temple, where the Sun God points to the origins of banking and the roots of money.
- Discover why, in the City of London, money really does grow on trees.
- Traverse the winding backstreets and secret alleys of the Square Mile to follow the remarkable evolution of money—from clay tablets to digital ledgers—and see how wars, technology, and philosophy have shaped the global financial system.
- Demystify the very nature of money, exploring its journey as both a tool and a symbol.
Perfect for curious travellers and history enthusiasts alike.
Available options
London: Money & Power – Babylon to Bitcoin Walking Tour
What's included
Local Guide
PDF Overview of Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
See how Religious institutions to the story of Money, Magic and Power right from the beginning.
2
Founded in 1566 as England’s first purpose-built trading floor. Rebuilt twice after fires; now houses luxury shops beneath its neoclassical facade.
3
Discover: the origin of money magicians, the oldest financial transaction and money from before the Romans arrived.
4
It was around this location that modern western Banking was birthed.
5
Stop 5
Said how the first coffee house in London played a crucial role in early finance.
6
Stop 6
This alley was the epicenter of London's financial world in the 17th and 18th centuries.
7
Stop 7
We tell the story of modern money and trade, how it changed shape and in turn the world itself. It's stories entail the beheading of a King, Companies that developed an empire to the advent of modern day money: The digital dollar and bitcoin.
8
Stop 8
How a speedy pigeon reporting the news of the war (Wellington and Napoleon) turned enabled massive manipulation of the markets.
9
We discuss what Industrial revolution meant for the City, next to one of the pioneers of the Industrial revolution.
10
This church has been at the centre point of history of debt, slavery and Christian values.
11
Stop 11
How this Insurance company helped shape empire and the world.
12
Stop 12
This outdoor installation is perfect for us to consider the movements of times and tides of money and finance and power.
13
Stop 13
We get back to financial roots at this ancient market, and we talk Dragons!
14
Stop 14
Public space with the Gilt of Cain sculpture, memorializing the City’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
15
We take a fresh perspective as we conclude the tour.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Time for travel time is already included in the total duration
Meeting point
We meet outside the Pret.
You will recognize me by my longish hair & beard, and you'll see a felt image of a green dragon on my backpack.
About London
London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and dynamic cultural scene. From the ancient Tower of London to the modern Shard, the city offers a blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
Tower of London
A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. It has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and treasury. The Crown Jewels are also housed here.
Historical
2-3 hours
£28 (adult ticket)
Buckingham Palace
The official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms during the summer.
Historical
1-2 hours
£27.50 (adult ticket for State Rooms)
The British Museum
One of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free (special exhibitions may have a charge)
The London Eye
A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city.
Entertainment
30 minutes
£27-£33 (adult ticket)
Westminster Abbey
A large, mainly Gothic abbey church just to the west of the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the most notable religious buildings in the UK and the traditional place of coronation and burial for English and, later, British monarchs.
Religious
1-2 hours
£27 (adult ticket)
Tower Bridge
An iconic symbol of London, this combined bascule and suspension bridge spans the River Thames. Visitors can explore the bridge's walkways and the Tower Bridge Exhibition.
Architecture
1-2 hours
£11 (adult ticket for the exhibition)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish and Chips
A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries).
Dinner
Contains gluten and fish
Full English Breakfast
A hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.
Breakfast
Contains meat and gluten
Afternoon Tea
A quintessential British tradition involving a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries, all served with tea.
Snack
Can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets
Sunday Roast
A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.
Dinner
Contains meat and gluten
Popular Activities
Rock climbing
Kayaking on the Thames
Cycling tours
Afternoon tea
Spas and wellness centers
Punting on the River Cam
Museum visits
Theater performances
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in London, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and events. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be unpredictable.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
London is generally safe for travelers, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Heathrow Airport • 23 km from city center
- Gatwick Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
London Waterloo, London King's Cross
By bus
Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, Farringdon
Getting around
Public transport
The Tube is the fastest and most efficient way to get around London. It operates from early morning until late at night and covers all major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Westminster
Camden Town
Soho
Notting Hill
Shoreditch
Greenwich
Day trips
Windsor Castle
34 km from London • Half day to full day
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's one of the official residences of the British monarch.
Stonehenge
130 km from London • Full day
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, located in the English county of Wiltshire.
Brighton
80 km from London • Full day
Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, lively atmosphere, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Festivals
Notting Hill Carnival • Last Sunday and Monday of August
London Film Festival • October
New Year's Eve Fireworks • December 31
Pro tips
- Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for cheaper and more convenient public transportation
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions to skip the queue and save money
- Explore the city's neighborhoods and markets for a unique and authentic experience
- Try the local street food and international cuisine at markets like Borough Market and Camden Market
- Visit the city's parks and gardens for a peaceful escape from the bustling streets
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
