Historical Walking Tour with London Guided Walks Private Tours in Southwark
Difficulty
easy
Duration
around 1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including casual walkers
Overview
Step into London's past with a private 90-minute walk through Southwark, uncovering stories of Shakespeare, Dickens, and medieval London. Discover hidden gems and the area's transformation over centuries in this personalized tour.
Southwark: a Private Tour
90 mins • Private Tour
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 90-minute walking tour through Southwark, where history, literature, and vibrant tales intertwine. Discover the area’s transformation from a medieval hub to a theatrical epicenter, exploring hidden gems linked to Shakespeare, Dickens, and Chaucer. Experience the rich tapestry of stories that shaped London’s past.
Uncover a forgotten world
Suitable for all age groups.
Duration
90 minutes
About
The area of Southwark is popular with foodies and film-makers alike but it was once a mecca for miscreants who enjoyed its taverns and theatres, brothels and bear-baiting.
Hear remarkable true accounts from Roman Britain all the way up to modern day, whilst exploring familiar territory for world-famous writers such as Shakespeare, Charles Dickens and Chaucer.
Accompanied by a professional guide, learn about the history of this area as you snap memorable photos.
Southwark Tour Reviews:
Oana Madalina (5/5) - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I absolutely loved this walk. Hazel is a great guide and she is very knowledgeable and considerate towards the elderly members of the group who could not keep up the pace so well. I managed to discover some hidden gems and whet my appetite for other walks! The walk dives into the history of Southwark starting with the name and is a fascinating journey through the social and architectural history of London."
Paul (5/5) - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Great walk with a really interesting guide with a formidable knowledge of the history and geography of Southwark. If you fancy a 90 minute stroll with endless surprises then I thoroughly recommend."
Helen (5/5) - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Our guide was knowledgeable and bubbly and made the walk fun and interesting. I learned a lot. Her reading of Chaucer's introduction to the Canterbury Tales was perfect!"
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The tour involves walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, so comfortable, sturdy footwear is recommended.
Bring a notebook or smartphone
Capture stories and landmarks or jot down notes for later reflection on this historically rich route.
Check the weather forecast
Prepare for rain or shine; bring an umbrella or sun protection depending on the forecast.
Arrive early
Arriving a few minutes before the start ensures you won't miss any story introductions and can settle in comfortably.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons
- Swallows
History
Southwark has been a hub for spectacle and storytelling since medieval times, with its dramatic transformation reflected in its architecture and local lore.
Conservation
Guided walking tours promote sustainable tourism, encouraging appreciation of historic sites without disrupting the area's cultural integrity.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight, sturdy shoes are key for traversing historic streets comfortably.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Layered clothing or rain gear help you stay comfortable in changing weather.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Small backpack or crossbody bag
Carry essentials like water, a notebook, or personal items easily during the walk.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the historic sights and lively streets as you go.