Medieval History Walking Tour from The Tower of London
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
This wonderful walking tour along London's River Thames gets you up close with some of London's oldest sights (as well as some of its newest) with an expert historian guide!
From the 11th-Century Tower of London, we’ll take you across the iconic Tower Bridge and along the banks of the Thames, to step back in time and discover London’s forgotten history – from the ancient Romans to the modern day! Hear the secrets of this amazing place and of the river itself, as we pass sights both famous and obscure - from the 15th-Century Southwark Cathedral and 12th-Century Winchester Palace, the ancient Borough Market, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Millennium Bridge, and the majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral to name but a few.
Be captivated by your guide's in-depth knowledge, marvel at the sights, and hear the stories of those who walked here centuries ago! Passing world-famous landmarks that only a few other tours visit, this unique walking tour is an unmissable experience for your next trip to London.
Available options
Medieval History Walking Tour from The Tower of London
What's included
Expert Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by the infamous Tower of London, and learn of its 900+ year history, from the time of William the Conqueror to the modern day! Originally built in 1078, The Tower is one of history's most infamous and notorious buildings, and has been the scene for countless historical events throughout its history.
2
Stop 2
Cross The Thames on the iconic Tower Bridge, and learn how it was built!
3
Stop 3
See the famous WW2 battleship, that saw action in various conflicts and took part in the D-Day landings!
4
Stop 4
Learn the history of London Bridge from its beginnings in the year 43AD, through medieval times and the 1212 Great Fire of Southwark, the English Civil War of the 1640s, and up to the modern day!
5
Stop 5
Pass the 900 year-old Borough Market, beneath early Victorian railway arches and through the oldest food market in the world.
6
Stop 6
Southwark Cathedral has stood exactly as you'll see it since 1420, although a site of worship has existed here since the year 606. Numerous historical figures now lie at rest inside the building, and the cathedral was used, in the 1550s, as a site for countless heresy trials by 'Bloody Mary' - the notorious daughter of Henry VIII.
7
Stop 7
Standing at St. Mary Overie dock, learn of Sir Francis Drake's famous 1577 round-the-world voyage, and the controversies that surrounded it!
8
See the ruins of the 12-century Winchester palace, originally one of medieval London's most important and spectacular buildings. It played host to various Kings and Queens in centuries gone, stood in the centre of the notorious 'Liberty of the Clink', and features the country's oldest prison!
9
Stop 9
Painstakingly rebuilt after a cannon-related fire in 1613, the beautiful Shakespeare's Globe Theatre stands immediately by the banks of the Thames, directly opposite St. Paul's Cathedral, and is like stepping back in time to 16th-century London!
10
Stop 10
Learn of the 30-million-year history of the Thames, and of the horrors and unpleasantness that took place here between the 11th century and Victorian times!
11
Stop 11
Cross The Thames once more on London's famous Millennium Bridge and marvel at fantastic views along the river on your way to St. Paul's!
12
Stop 12
The masterpiece of legendary British architect Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul's cathedral is one of the most spectacular buildings in the world, and has stood majestically atop Ludgate Hill since the 1670s. It is an unrivalled display of 17th-century architecture, and, with a site of worship having stood here since the 7th century, countless historical events have taken place here and continue to do so!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
112 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
29 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We will only stop by on each itinerary for the allotted time.
Meeting point
Meet your expert guide outside the western exit of Tower Hill tube station, near Trinity Square, The Citizen M Hotel, and the 'Tower Hill Tram' burger van. Your guide will be holding a flagpole with a Union Jack flag flying from it.
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
