Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but children should be comfortable walking for 2–3 hours.

Can I customize the tour?

Private bookings allow some flexibility; discuss specific interests with your guide beforehand.

Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera if desired.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?

Most of the route involves walking on uneven surfaces; please notify us in advance for arrangements.

What time does the tour start?

Tour start times are flexible; early morning or late afternoon sessions are available.

Bookings can be made directly through the provided link, with options for private or group tours.

Historical Fire Tours with As Time Goes By London in London

Walking through London’s streets with As Time Goes By London offers a rare chance to witness the city’s resilience firsthand. Specializing in immersive private tours, this company takes visitors on a vivid journey through two of London’s most devastating fires—the Great Fire of 1666 and the destruction wrought by the Blitz during World War II. Each route is crafted with attention to detail, weaving eyewitness accounts, historic landmarks, and stories of courage that shaped London’s modern identity. The experience isn’t just about viewing historic sites; it’s about feeling the tension and recovery that these events sparked, from the smoldering ruins to the grand rebirth of the city’s architecture and spirit. Begin your walk amid the cobblestones of old neighborhoods, where flames once raced across timbered buildings—relics of a bygone era that still bear scars today. The tour guides shed light on lesser-known stories of heroism and hardship, giving each site context rooted in history. As you navigate narrow alleys and open squares, the echoes of the past deepen your appreciation for London’s enduring strength. Ideal for history buffs and curious travelers alike, these walks provide a compelling blend of storytelling and site-seeing that connects past and present. These experiences stand out in London’s vibrant cultural scene because of their focus on resilience and human stories behind historic tragedy. Whether you’re a visitor wanting to understand London’s layered history or a local interested in the city’s hidden stories, As Time Goes By London offers a distinctive way to engage with the city’s past. By choosing a private tour, you escape the crowds for a personalized encounter with London’s most transformative moments—perfect for those who want a deeper dive into the history that shaped the city we see today.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2–3 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; walking at a comfortable pace is encouraged

Wildlife

Pigeons
Squirrels

History

London’s history is marked by its ability to rebuild after devastating fires and wartime destruction, making these tours a vital part of understanding the city’s resilience.

Conservation

The tours promote awareness of London’s heritage sites, encouraging sustainable tourism practices that respect the city’s historic and cultural fabric.

As Time Goes By London is a specialist tour operator based in London, England, offering private guided walking tours that explore the City of London’s layered history and architecture. The company curates five private experiences: History of HERstory; The Old and the New Buildings in the City of London; City Highlights; The Great Fire of London and the second great Fire of London: The Blitz; and Roman London. Each tour focuses on in-depth narratives — from suffragettes and pioneering women to Roman ruins, Sir Christopher Wren’s churches, and modern landmarks such as the Gherkin and Lloyds of London. Tours combine mapped walking routes with historical context, covering sites like St Paul’s, Leadenhall Market, the London Mithraeum, the Roman Wall, Temple Bar, and other City landmarks. The Great Fire and Blitz tour presents eyewitness accounts and stories of resilience; the HERstory tour highlights the contributions and struggles of women across centuries. The Roman London tour traces remains of ancient bathhouses, the Roman amphitheatre, and material evidence of Rome’s influence on the city. As Time Goes By London is featured on The Adventure Collective, which lists the operator among specialized City of London walking experiences. The provider offers private, customizable tours suitable for visitors seeking focused, historical exploration and architectural insight. Booking information and availability are provided through the business’s listings. Topics covered include women's history, the Great Fire of 1666, the Blitz of World War II, Roman London remains, and the contrast between historic and modern City architecture. Local context included.

Base locationLondon, London

Tours offered5+

Specialtyothers

StewardshipLeave No Trace