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Free tour

Mysteries and Legends of London Free Walking Tour

Duration: 2h
Languages: English
Guru: Wonders
Quality Verified Registered on April 11, 2024

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  • Free booking and cancellation
    Free payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free
  • Accepts electronic payment
    This tour allows payment by electronic means or credit card

Tour description

A fascinating free tour that will take you to Smithfield, a meat market with roots dating back to 1174, situated on the outskirts of the picturesque Clerkenwell neighbourhood, London’s first suburb. You will discover which spices grown in Clerkenwell were used to mask the taste of rancid meat and the secrets of the 40,000 victims of the Black Death. You will learn about the intriguing past of Bloody Mary, the 16th-century English queen, with her extravagant culinary preferences. In particular, you will be surprised to learn where and how she indulged in chicken and red wine while witnessing the tragic burning of Protestant martyrs. A free tour that will lead you through the dark and bloody history of London that you do not know.

Here is a preview of our itinerary:

  • we will start the tour in the picturesque Paternoster Square
  • we will uncover the macabre history of Pye Corner
  • we will pass by the magnificent St Bartholomew the Great church
  • we will arrive at Smithfield Market
  • we will pass by the Museum of the Order of Saint John
  • we will end our tour outside Farringdon Station

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Highlights

What will we visit on this tour?

  • Meeting point:
    Paternoster Sq., London EC1A 7BA, UK
    Paternoster Sq., London EC1A 7BA, UK
    View on map

    Meet us in front of the Paternoster Square Column, Paternoster Square, (next to St Paul's Cathedral) - EC1A 7BA. Look for the guide with our unique white, red, and blue umbrella!

  • 1
    Outside visit
    Golden Boy of Pye Corner

    "The Golden Boy of Pye Corner" is a small golden statue commemorating the end of the Great Fire of London in 1666. Located at Pye Corner, this symbolic figure represents the belief that the fire was caused by "divine wrath," emphasizing the need for moderation and virtue in daily life.

  • 2
    Outside visit
    St Bartholomew the Great

    The Church of St. Bartholomew the Great, a medieval gem in the heart of Smithfield, enchants visitors with its imposing Gothic architecture. Rich in history, this church provides a unique spiritual and cultural experience, transporting visitors back in time through its majestic interiors.

  • 3
    Outside visit
    Smithfield Market

    Smithfield Market, one of London's oldest food markets, is a lively hub of commercial and gastronomic activity. With its meat stalls, fresh produce, and culinary delights, the market provides an authentic experience that reflects the city's rich culinary tradition.

  • 4
    Outside visit
    Charter House

    Charterhouse, in Charterhouse Square, is a historic London institution founded in 1611 as a school. Known for its rich history and traditions, it has educated many prominent individuals. The site also features a historic building with a chapel and a picturesque courtyard, making it a notable landmark in London’s educational and architectural heritage

  • 5
    Outside visit
    Farringdon Station

    Farringdon Station is a major railway hub in central London, opened in 1863. It serves the London Underground (Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines) and national and intercity trains. Known for its historic architecture, it’s close to Smithfield Market and St. Paul's Cathedral. Recently modernised to include the Elizabeth Line (Crossrail), it offers improved connectivity.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

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Who is this tour for?

Accessibility
Suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Accepts reservations up to 8 people.
Pets
Not suitable for pets.

What should you know?

Additional costs:
The tour does not require the payment of entrance fees or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you will not be able to attend the tour, please cancel your booking, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Electronic or credit card payment is accepted.
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