London: Medieval History Walking Tour From the Tower

London’s medieval past comes alive on the "Medieval History Walking Tour From the Tower." Visitors can explore the iconic Tower of London and uncover its dark secrets, from its origins as a royal residence to its grim history as a prison and execution site. Along the way, the tour takes guests through the city’s historic landmarks, including London Bridge and Borough Market, before culminating at the grand Southwark Cathedral. With its immersive storytelling and captivating insights, this walking tour promises to transport you back in time and reveal the remarkable legacy that still shapes the heart of the city today.

Key Points

• Start the walking tour at the iconic Tower of London, an 11th-century castle with a rich medieval history as a royal residence and site of executions.
• Explore the Tower’s Bloody Tower, White Tower, and the Crown Jewels to learn about the captivating mysteries and stories from the medieval period.
• Walk across the historic London Bridge, which has been a vital crossing over the Thames for centuries, dating back to the Roman era.
• Visit Southwark Cathedral, a 12th-century Gothic structure that offers insights into London’s religious heritage during the Middle Ages.
• Conclude the tour at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, a replica of the 16th-century playhouse that hosted the Bard’s legendary productions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

11th-Century Castle With 1,000-Year History

The Tower of London stands as an iconic 11th-century castle with a rich, 1,000-year history that has witnessed numerous significant events and housed some of the most influential figures in British history.

This formidable fortress, originally built by William the Conqueror, has served as a royal residence, a prison, and a site of execution.

Within its walls, visitors can explore the Crown Jewels, the White Tower, and the infamous Bloody Tower, where the mysterious disappearance of the Princes in the Tower remains one of the enduring mysteries of the medieval era.

The Tower’s imposing presence and its captivating past make it a must-see destination for anyone interested in London’s medieval heritage.

Iconic 19th-Century Bridge

Next along the tour is the iconic Tower Bridge, a stunning 19th-century structure that has become one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Constructed between 1886 and 1894, this majestic bridge spans the River Thames, boasting its distinctive blue steel towers and historic bascule design that allows the bridge to open and close for river traffic.

Fact	Detail
Length	800 feet (243 meters)
Height	213 feet (65 meters)
Weight	11,000 tons
Architect	Sir Horace Jones
Opening Ceremony	March 30, 1894

The intricate engineering and timeless aesthetic of Tower Bridge make it a true marvel of Victorian-era design, captivating visitors from around the world.

World War II Warship

HMS Belfast, a World War II warship, stands as a testament to Britain’s naval prowess, its imposing presence a reminder of the pivotal role it played in key battles of the war. Berthed on the River Thames, this nine-deck, 11,000-ton cruiser offers visitors a glimpse into its storied past:

Commissioned in 1938, the Belfast saw action in the Arctic Convoys, supporting the fight against the German Kriegsmarine.

Its 12 guns could fire 700 rounds per minute, enabling the ship to provide vital fire support during the D-Day landings.

Visitors can explore the engine rooms, galley, and bridge, experiencing the cramped conditions endured by the 1,000-strong crew.

Interactive exhibits recount harrowing tales of life at sea, from treacherous weather to enemy attacks.

The ship’s museum showcases its resilience, having survived a German mine explosion in 1939 that left it out of action for over two years.

Historic Crossing Over Thames

As visitors make their way from the imposing HMS Belfast, they come across one of London’s most historic crossing points over the River Thames – London Bridge.

This iconic structure has been a vital link for travelers and traders for centuries, with a rich history stretching back to the Roman era. The current London Bridge, completed in 1973, is the latest iteration of a bridge that has occupied this site for over 2,000 years.

Throughout the medieval period, the bridge was a bustling hub of activity, lined with shops, houses, and even a chapel. Today, it remains an important thoroughfare, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the iconic Tower Bridge just downstream.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

12th-Century Food Market

Often, visitors to the tour make their way from the historic London Bridge to the bustling Borough Market, a 12th-century food market that has long been a vibrant hub of culinary activity in the city.

This iconic marketplace offers a feast for the senses, featuring:

• Rows of stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal breads, and specialty cheeses from local producers
• Bustling food courts serving up a global array of cuisines, from classic English fare to international street food
• Lively crowds of shoppers, foodies, and locals mingling amidst the lively atmosphere

Historic architecture and cobblestone streets that evoke the market’s centuries-old heritage.

A thriving community of independent vendors and small businesses showcasing the best of London’s food culture.

12th-Century Cathedral

The Southwark Cathedral, a 12th-century place of worship, stands as a testament to London’s rich ecclesiastical history.

This towering Gothic structure has witnessed the passage of time, serving as a spiritual hub for the city’s faithful. Visitors can marvel at its impressive architecture, adorned with intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows.

The cathedral’s interior is equally captivating, with its vaulted ceilings and ornate altars.

As part of the medieval walking tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore the cathedral’s past, uncovering the stories of the clergymen and parishioners who’ve worshipped within its hallowed walls over the centuries.

This historic landmark offers a unique glimpse into London’s religious heritage.

Replica 16th-Century Theatre

After exploring the historic Southwark Cathedral, the medieval walking tour takes visitors to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre – a faithful reconstruction of the original 16th-century playhouse where the Bard’s legendary works were first performed.

The original Globe’s construction in 1599 was funded by the famous actor Richard Burbage. The theatre featured an open-air, round design, allowing for large audiences to experience the plays.

The theatre’s destruction by fire in 1613, and its subsequent rebuilding, played a key role in shaping Shakespeare’s renowned plays and the Elizabethan theatre scene.

The modern-day Globe’s mission is to preserve and celebrate the legacy of the Bard and his iconic venue.

Iconic 17th-Century Cathedral

Towering over London’s skyline, St. Paul’s Cathedral stands as a magnificent 17th-century architectural masterpiece, designed by the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren.

The cathedral’s grand dome, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, is an iconic feature of the London landscape.

Inside, visitors are awed by the cathedral’s stunning baroque interior, with its ornate details and intricate mosaics.

St. Paul’s has long been a center of religious worship, hosting major events such as royal weddings and state funerals.

Today, it remains an important landmark, drawing visitors from around the world to admire its timeless beauty and rich history.

Recap

The medieval history walking tour from the Tower of London offers a captivating journey through the city’s past.

Visitors can explore the iconic castle, cross the historic London Bridge, and discover the vibrant Borough Market and Southwark Cathedral.

This immersive experience brings London’s rich heritage to life, providing a unique opportunity to explore the remarkable stories that have shaped the city over the centuries.

You can check if your dates are available here: