Buried treasures, banks and bullion…. Explore the legendary wealth of the City of London and its modern-day reputation as a global centre of finance. They used to say its streets were paved with gold... This guided walk explores the historic sources of the City's money, including livery companies, global trade and the development of the banking industry, and some of the ways that manifests today.

London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. The subtly reflective surface provides a striking counterpoint to St Paul's.

Make Architects, 2007

Temple Bar is a 350 year old gateway to the City of London, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. It formerly stood in Fleet Street, and is the last surviving gateway to the City of London. This beautiful structure has a fascinating history, which will be revealed to visitors.

Sir Christopher Wren, 1672

We will explore sites and institutions with direct links to the history of slavery and hear why the apologies were made in 2020, whilst wandering within the story packed streets and alleyways of the Square Mile.

Acquired in 1532 and rebuilt in 1670 after the Great Fire, the Hall was partially destroyed in 1941 by enemy action and rebuilt in a Neo-Georgian style in 1960. The original charter, portraiture and stained glass are of particular interest.

D. E. Harrington, 1961

The Grade I listed North Wing at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in the City of London houses two of England’s most important interiors, the Great Hall, and the Hogarth Stair with its large paintings by William Hogarth. The hospital was designed by architect James Gibbs and construction of the North Wing was completed in 1732.

James Gibbs, 1732

In 1666, a devastating fire swept through the City of London, destroying 13,200 houses, 87 parish churches, The Royal Exchange, Guildhall and St. Paul's Cathedral. The Fire started on Sunday, 2 September 1666 in Thomas Farriner's bakery in Pudding Lane. Christopher Wren played a major role in rebuilding the City. Join our free walks led by City of London Guides to find out more.

Christopher Wren, 1666

Trade and craft guilds have flourished for centuries. The City of London’s Livery Companies are unique in their survival, number, and diversity. While the original social and economic conditions that created these original guilds have long been overtaken by modern commerce, these fascinating institutions still flourish today. Join us to explore their enduring history and modern impact.

The Barbican is a residential complex of around 2,000 flats, maisonettes, and houses in the City of London. Built on the site destroyed by The Blitz during the World War II, The Barbican Estate is a fascinating development and an icon of Brutalist architecture. Architects were Chamberlain, Powell and Bon. You will find an oasis in the middle of buildings, with gardens and water features.

Chamberlain Powell and Bon, 1970

On this walk, we will see many historic & modern buildings in the City of London. We’ll look at different architecture styles having regard to the environment and sustainability, from heritage sites to pioneering green tech. Hear about famous architects, past and present, as we explore how the Square Mile preserves its legacy while evolving for a resilient, carbon-neutral tomorrow.

A walking tour of the City, visiting key areas associated with famous writers, from Shakespeare, Dr Johnson, Oscar Wilde, and many others.