*Free cancellation available
Unveiling the Salacious Secrets of London’s Financial Heart
Nestled within the bustling heart of the City of London, the Scandalous Square Mile guided walking tour invites you on a captivating journey through the city’s most notorious and intriguing historical landmarks. Departing from the iconic Moorgate station, this immersive experience delves into the city’s scandalous past, shedding light on the dark underbelly of one of the world’s most influential financial centers.
As you embark on this 2.5-hour walking tour, you’ll be transported back in time, exploring the winding streets and hidden alleys that have witnessed a tapestry of scandalous events, from political intrigue to financial corruption, and from salacious affairs to shocking criminal acts. Led by a knowledgeable and engaging guide, you’ll uncover the stories that have long been whispered behind closed doors, uncovering the secrets that have shaped the City of London’s legacy.
The tour begins at the Guildhall, a grand medieval building that has served as the administrative heart of the City of London for centuries. Here, you’ll learn about the intricate web of power, politics, and privilege that has long dominated the city’s elite. As you wander through the Guildhall’s impressive halls, your guide will regale you with tales of corruption, bribery, and the scandalous exploits of the city’s most powerful figures.
From the Guildhall, you’ll venture deep into the heart of the financial district, weaving through the labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways that have witnessed countless scandalous events. Along the way, you’ll encounter landmark buildings such as the Bank of England, the Royal Exchange, and the Lloyd’s of London building, each with its own salacious history.
At the Bank of England, you’ll delve into the stories of financial scandals and fraudulent schemes that have rocked the institution over the years, from the South Sea Bubble to the LIBOR manipulation scandal. Your guide will bring these tales to life, painting a vivid picture of the greed, deception, and abuse of power that have at times characterized the world of high finance.
As you explore the Royal Exchange, you’ll uncover the scandalous relationships and illicit affairs that have played out within its walls, from the scandalous liaisons of wealthy merchants to the scandalous behavior of the city’s elite. The Lloyd’s of London building, meanwhile, will reveal the stories of insurance fraud, risky underwriting, and the scandalous exploits of the city’s insurance brokers.
Throughout the tour, you’ll also visit lesser-known sites, such as the Old Bailey, the historic courthouse that has presided over many of the city’s most notorious criminal trials. Here, you’ll delve into the salacious details of some of the most sensational cases, from political scandals to lurid murders.
As the tour winds its way through the city, you’ll also encounter hidden gems, such as the ancient churchyards and hidden alleyways that have long been the domain of secret societies, illicit trysts, and scandalous activities. Your guide will weave these stories into the larger tapestry of the city’s history, painting a vivid picture of the scandalous underbelly of the Square Mile.
The tour culminates at the iconic Monument, a towering landmark that commemorates the Great Fire of London. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect on the city’s tumultuous history and the enduring legacy of the scandals that have shaped its character. With a newfound appreciation for the city’s dark and fascinating past, you’ll leave the Scandalous Square Mile tour with a deeper understanding of the forces that have forged the City of London into the global financial powerhouse it is today.
Whether you’re a history buff, a true-crime enthusiast, or simply someone who is captivated by the stories that lie beneath the surface of the city, the Scandalous Square Mile guided walking tour is a must-experience attraction. With its engaging narrative, insightful commentary, and immersive exploration of the city’s most salacious secrets, this tour offers a truly unique and unforgettable glimpse into the scandalous heart of the City of London.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Departure point(s):
Moorgate, Moorgate, City of London, London, EC2Y 9AE
Meet outside the Elizabeth Line station exit
End point(s):
Smithfield Market, Grand Ave, City of London, London, EC1A 9PS
We’ll end at Smithfield, near Farringdon underground station
Additional Features
Features Included:
- All Fees and Taxes
- Guide
Features Not Included:
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off
- Food & Drinks
Additional Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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