London Walking Tour with Historic London Tours – Squalor and Splendour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, as it involves walking on mostly flat surfaces.
Overview
Step into London’s past with a captivating guided walk through Holborn, uncovering 2,000 years of history and hidden stories. Discover sites linked to Saxons, Templar Knights, and Dickens during this intimate tour. Keep reading to see what makes this experience truly special.
Turmoil, Templars & Oliver Twist: London's Squalor and Splendour
2 hours • Ages 13+ • See Holborn's history of squalor and splendour!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating two-hour guided walking tour through Holborn, exploring 2,000 years of history. Encounter Saxons, Knights Templar, and Charles Dickens while visiting iconic sites like Fagin's den and Freemasons' Hall. With a limited group size, enjoy an intimate experience filled with intriguing tales and historical insights.
Duration
2 hours
About
Click here to watch a sneak preview video!
Travel through two thousand years of history, meeting Saxons, the Knights Templar, Charles Dickens, Freemasons, and the Bow Street Runners!
On our guided walking tour we'll travel across Holborn, with its highs and lows over the past two-thousand years. We'll learn about the turmoil of the Saxon period, visit the locations of Fagin's den and execution in Oliver Twist, see the splendour of Freemasons' Hall and the Knights Templar headquarters, hear about a couple of London's most notorious prisons, and discover the world's largest collection of retail silver!
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More info
The guided walking tour begins outside Covent Garden Station, ends near to Blackfriars Station, and will take around two hours. Total distance is about two and a half miles.
Ticket sales will be limited to fifteen attendees, to ensure maximum enjoyment for everybody on the tour.
Parents can bring younger children, but it's at their own discretion on the understanding that there will be adult themes on the tour
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
This walking tour covers cobbled and uneven streets—comfortable footwear is essential.
Bring a bottle of water
Stay hydrated during the two-hour walk, especially on warmer days.
Bring a notepad
Jot down interesting facts or questions to ask your guide later.
Check weather forecast
Be prepared for rain or shine—dress accordingly for outdoor walking.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- City pigeons
- Street squirrels in quiet parks
History
Holborn has been a trading and legal hub since medieval times, and still hosts historic pubs and courthouses.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving historic streets and encouraging walking to reduce urban traffic and pollution.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Key for traversing historic streets comfortably and safely.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dressing appropriately ensures comfort regardless of London's variable weather.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Small backpack
Perfect for carrying water, snacks, and any personal items during the walk.
Notepad and pen
Great for taking notes or capturing thoughts during your tour.