Charles Dickens Old London – A Private Tour

Exploring London through the lens of Charles Dickens offers a wonderfully textured view of the city’s past, blending literary history with local flavor. This private tour, curated by Richards Tours, takes you around some of Dickens’s most-loved London haunts, with tailored stops that highlight the places that inspired his novels and life. At just under four hours, it’s a deep dive into Victorian London with the comfort of a personalized experience, and includes free entry to the Charles Dickens Museum—an unbeatable perk for fans or curious travelers alike.

What I particularly love about this tour are two things: first, the flexibility to shape the itinerary based on your interests, and second, the knowledgeable guides who paint vivid pictures of Dickens’s London using engaging storytelling. It’s clear from reviews that guides like Richard excel at making history feel alive, with comments like “Richard provided vivid storytelling” and “he was fun, engaging, and extremely knowledgeable.” On the flip side, a possible drawback is the price—at $233.97 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see London, but the value lies in its depth and customization.

A consideration for travelers is that, because it’s a private, walking-focused tour, good footwear is essential, and a fair bit of time is spent outdoors. If you’re after a more structured, large-group experience, this might feel a bit intimate and relaxed for your taste. But for those who want a tailored, in-depth journey into Dickens’s London, this tour hits the spot.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized experience: The tour is entirely tailored to your interests, making it especially valuable for Dickens enthusiasts or history lovers.
• Expert guides: Guides like Richard are praised for vivid storytelling and deep knowledge, bringing Dickens’s world to life.
• Historic sites and landmarks: From Marshalsea Prison to Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, the stops are thoughtfully chosen to connect Dickens’s life with his stories.
• Flexible itinerary: You can expect a custom route, which means you’re not just stuck with a set list but can explore what interests you most.
• Included admission: Free entry to the Charles Dickens Museum adds real value, offering insights into Dickens’s personal life and work.
• Ideal for literature fans and history lovers: The tour appeals most to those interested in Dickens, London’s past, or Victorian culture.

Exploring Dickens’s London in Depth

Knowing where Dickens lived, worked, and drew inspiration truly enhances the understanding of his novels. This tour begins in the Marshalsea Prison South Wall, a location that haunted Dickens’s childhood. The area, once a grim prison wall, directly inspired the setting for Little Dorrit. Standing here, you can imagine Dickens’s young life shaped amidst hardship—a theme woven throughout his stories. The guide’s commentary on Dickens’s early family life adds context that makes the past feel tangible, especially when you walk the back streets as Dickens might have.

Next, a poignant stop is Crossbones Graveyard, a burial site for society’s outcasts, including prostitutes and their children—the “Winchester Geese” licensed by the church. This spot reveals Dickens’s concern for the impoverished and outcast, themes central to many of his novels. The quiet garden serves as a peaceful memorial, and for fans, it’s a chance to connect Dickens’s social consciousness with real history.

George Inn is a highlight, London’s only surviving galleried inn, and a favorite haunt of Dickens and Shakespeare alike. Its history as a venue for the Bard’s performances makes it a tangible link to London’s theatrical past. Dickens himself was known to drink here, and it’s mentioned in Little Dorrit. It’s a lively spot where stepping inside feels like flipping open a Victorian novel.

Borough Market offers sensory overload—aromas of spices, baked goods, and fresh produce fill the air. Dickens frequented this lively marketplace, and it’s here that Nancy waits for Mr. Brownlow in Oliver Twist. The market’s centuries-old history adds to the authenticity, and it’s a great place for a quick browse or a coffee break. The guide might point out how Dickens’s vivid descriptions match the bustling reality today.

Venturing into Ebenezer Scrooge’s world, the tour takes you into historic pubs like the George and Vulture and Simpson’s Tavern—places Dickens would have known well. These taverns, with their centuries-old cellars and traditional charm, reflect Dickens’s love of London’s inns and taverns, often depicted in his books. Sitting in these timeless spots, you get the sense of Dickens’s social circles and the characters he knew.

Leadenhall Market, with its ornate roof and cobbled walkways, is a picturesque setting that Dickens used in A Christmas Carol. Its recent fame from the Harry Potter films is a bonus, but for Dickens fans, it’s another step into his London.

Next, standing outside the Royal Exchange Building near the Bank of England, you can imagine the ghostly visit where Scrooge is taken to see his future. Today, the building’s interior is modern, but the historic atmosphere remains, and the steps are where royal announcements once took place.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, a pub dating back to the 13th century, was a favorite Dickens haunt and a meeting place for the Hellfire Club. Dickens’s David Copperfield mentions it, and it’s easy to see why—its cellar rooms and aged wood create a cozy, storybook atmosphere.

The famous Old Curiosity Shop—a Tudor building that Dickens immortalized—stands amidst modern London as a charming reminder of Victorian England. Visiting this site is like stepping into a Dickens novel, with its storybook facade and historic ambiance.

Finally, the tour explores Inner Temple, where Dickens worked as a junior clerk. The Inns of Court inspired scenes in David Copperfield and Great Expectations, making it a fitting end to the walk. The nearby Charles Dickens Museum, housed in his former home, rounds out the experience with an in-depth look at his life and works, with a full hour to explore.

Why This Tour Delivers Real Value

While the price tag might seem high, think of it as a ticket to a personalized, storytelling-rich experience that combines history, literature, and London’s streets. The inclusion of the Charles Dickens Museum provides a comprehensive look at the man himself, with access to his personal belongings and manuscripts, making it a worthwhile addition.

The guided aspect is what elevates this tour. Guides like Richard are praised for their vivid storytelling—imagine hearing Dickens’s own voice as they describe life in Victorian London or the social struggles that shaped his stories. This kind of insight turns a simple walk into a meaningful journey. The customizable itinerary means you can focus on the themes that interest you most—be it Dickens’s childhood, his social commentary, or the historic pubs he loved.

The duration of 3 to 4 hours strikes a good balance—covering a lot without feeling rushed. And the walking pace allows for plenty of stops, photos, and conversations. Plus, the free entry to the Dickens Museum is a nice bonus, saving you time and money while deepening your understanding of his life and work.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for literature fans who want to see Dickens’s London through a more intimate lens. It’s also a good fit for history buffs interested in Victorian social conditions, or travelers who enjoy walking tours that combine storytelling with authentic sites. Since the tour is private, it’s especially suitable for couples, families, or small groups seeking a relaxed, tailored exploration.

If you’re someone who prefers a more structured, large-group tour, or if you’re on a tight schedule and want to see as much as possible quickly, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re eager for a personalized journey into Dickens’s world, this tour offers a memorable way to connect with London’s literary past.

Practical Considerations

The tour begins at Borough High Street at 10:00 am, and most travelers book it around 81 days in advance—showing how popular this experience has become. The price reflects the personalized service, expert guides, and the included museum entry, but consider it an investment in a meaningful, in-depth experience rather than just a sightseeing checkmark.

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair bit of walking—some stops, like Marshalsea or Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, involve wandering through historic streets. The group size is limited to your private party, ensuring an intimate and engaging atmosphere.

Accessibility is good for most travelers—service animals are allowed, and the tour is near public transportation. The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour ends conveniently at Dickens’s former home in Doughty Street.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour’s length and walking pace make it suitable for families with kids interested in Dickens or London history.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What does the price include?
The cost covers a private guide, a personalized itinerary, and free entry to the Charles Dickens Museum. Food and drinks are not included.

Are the stops indoors or outdoors?
Most stops involve walking through outdoor streets, with some visits to historic pubs and indoor sites like the Dickens Museum. Be prepared for weather conditions.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible to match your interests, whether you’re keen on Dickens’s early life, his writings, or London’s historic pubs.

What’s the best way to book?
Booking well in advance is recommended, as this popular tour is often booked 81 days ahead. You can arrange it through the provider’s website or by contacting Richards Tours directly.

Is this tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
While most sites are accessible, some cobbled streets and historic buildings might pose challenges. It’s best to check directly with the provider for specific needs.

This private Dickens tour offers a personal, storytelling-rich exploration of London’s most evocative Dickensian sites. It’s ideal for readers, history lovers, and anyone wanting a deeper connection to London’s literary past. With expert guides, flexible planning, and included museum access, it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that turns a walk through old London into a vivid journey into the life and stories of Charles Dickens.