Slavery and City of London Walking Tour

London’s past is not just about kings, queens, and grand buildings—there’s a shadow side that often goes unspoken. The Slavery and City of London Walking Tour, offered by Sam’s Walks, provides an eye-opening look at how the city’s wealth and development were intertwined with the brutal history of the transatlantic slave trade. For around an hour and a half, this guided experience takes you through the heart of London’s financial district, revealing stories behind the iconic landmarks most travelers pass by without a second thought. Priced at just $27.55 per person, this tour combines affordability with profound historical insights, making it a compelling addition to any trip to the city.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it balances deep historical context with practical sightseeing. First, the guide’s broad knowledge of the area shines, making each stop both informative and engaging. Second, the tour’s focus on hidden sights and stories most travelers miss adds an authentic layer of discovery — you won’t find this information just hanging around in travel guidebooks. On the flip side, since the tour is often booked about 18 days in advance, those hoping for a last-minute adventure may need to plan ahead. Also, the tour’s duration and group size—no more than 35 people—strike a good balance, but if you prefer a more personalized experience, it’s something to consider.

Key Points

Rich historical insights into Britain’s role in slavery.
Accessible price point offers impressive value for a meaningful experience.
Knowledgeable guides like Sam make history come alive with humor and clarity.
Stops include iconic landmarks and hidden stories most visitors overlook.
Well-organized itinerary with thoughtful pacing, lasting about 1.5 hours.
Group size capped at 35 ensures a comfortable, engaging atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Tower Hill Tram and Trinity Square

The tour kicks off at Tower Hill Tram near Trinity Square, close to the Tower of London. It’s an ideal spot if you’re already exploring the historic fortress, and it’s well connected by public transport. From here, you’re immediately immersed in the layers of London’s complex past.

The Roman Wall of Londonium

The first stop is the ancient Roman wall that marked the boundary of Londinium, built over 2000 years ago. Here, your guide—likely a charismatic host like Sam—will explain how even back then, Britons and Romans alike were caught up in the sort of forced labor that foreshadowed later slavery systems. One reviewer calls it “a stunning view of the Roman-built boundary,” and it’s fascinating to see how these ancient walls still shape the city today. The best part? Admission is free, making this a perfect quick dive into London’s earliest history.

Site of East India House

Next, you’ll visit the site where the East India Company’s headquarters once stood—an institution deeply involved in slave trafficking and exploitation of African and Asian peoples. This connection clarifies how London’s wealth grew from controversial and often brutal sources, a point that the tour makes clear. The stories behind these trade hubs bring a new understanding of familiar landmarks.

Fen Gardens and the Gilt of Cain Sculpture

At Fenchurch Street, the tour stops at Fen Gardens, home to the Gilt of Cain sculpture, which commemorates the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. It’s a poignant reminder of how activism and resistance reshaped history. Several reviews mention how this stop is especially meaningful, with one traveler saying, “It was uplifting to see a monument dedicated to ending slavery.”

The Jamaica Wine House and the Coffee Trade

Moving on, your guide will point out the Jamaica Wine House, the site of London’s first coffee house. Historically, it was a hub for the sugar trade, intricately linked to plantation economies and slave labor. Recognizing these connections helps paint a fuller picture of London’s economic roots.

St. Mary Woolnoth Church and John Newton

A highlight for many is St. Mary Woolnoth, where John Newton, the former slave trader turned abolitionist, served as rector. Newton’s story is a testament to personal transformation and the power of activism. As one reviewer noted, “Newton’s connection to this church adds a profound layer of meaning to the tour.”

The Bank of England Museum

The tour then moves to the Bank of England, where you’ll see how the institution has publicly acknowledged its past involvement with slavery. The bank has apologized and committed to removing statues and paintings of past directors associated with the slave trade, a nod to how modern institutions grapple with their historical sins. The museum itself is free, and the guide will share the story behind these symbolic gestures.

The Royal Africa Company’s Hall of Power

You will also visit a building that once hosted shareholders of the Royal Africa Company, connecting London’s governance to the transatlantic trade. It’s a revealing glimpse of how city officials and merchants collaborated for profit, often at the expense of human lives.

St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Walk’s End

Finally, the tour concludes near St. Paul’s underground station, offering a chance to reflect on the complex history uncovered. The overall experience feels well-rounded—covering ancient defenses, colonial trade, abolition, and modern reckonings. Multiple reviews praise the guide’s clarity and engaging storytelling, with one noting that “Sam’s broad knowledge made the 90-minute walk fly by.”

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who crave more than surface sightseeing — those interested in understanding London’s formation through a less glamorous, more nuanced lens. It’s especially good for history enthusiasts, activists, or anyone curious about the city’s hidden stories. Because the tour covers well-known landmarks alongside lesser-known sites, it suits visitors who enjoy connecting the dots between the city’s visible grandeur and its darker past.

Practical Notes

• The tour costs around $27.55, which is very reasonable considering the depth of insight and the landmarks covered.
• It’s about 1 hour and 30 minutes long, making it a manageable activity for most travelers.
• The group size is capped at 35, creating an intimate atmosphere where questions are encouraged.
• The starting point is at Tower Hill Tram near Trinity Square, with the walk ending at Aldgate Station, convenient for most public transport options.
• Booking about 18 days in advance is typical, so plan your schedule accordingly to secure a spot.

Considerations

• This tour requires good weather since it’s outdoors, so check the forecast.
• If you’re after a highly personalized or private experience, note that the group size could be a drawback — but most reviews suggest it feels very intimate as is.
• The historical focus means the language can be serious at times, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with reflective and sometimes sobering content.

Final Thoughts

This Slavery and City of London Walking Tour offers far more than a typical sightseeing stroll. It’s a reminder of how intertwined London’s rise to global prominence was with the exploitation of enslaved peoples. For about 90 minutes, you’ll walk through history that’s often buried beneath glossy landmarks, gaining insights that deepen your understanding of Britain’s past and its ongoing impact today. The knowledgeable guide — often praised for their clarity, humor, and passion — transforms what could be a heavy topic into a meaningful conversation.

If you’re a curious traveler eager to see London through a critical eye, this tour provides excellent value. It’s best suited for those who want to explore with purpose, engaging with the stories that have shaped one of Europe’s greatest cities. The blend of famous sites and hidden stories makes it memorable, impactful, and worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it perfect for a half-day activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Tower Hill Tram near Trinity Square and finishes at Aldgate Station.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are capped at 35 travelers to keep the experience engaging and manageable.

What’s the cost of the tour?
It costs around $27.55 per person, which offers very good value given the depth of content covered.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the content’s serious nature might be better appreciated by older children or adults.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 18 days ahead, but you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect landmarks like Roman Londonium walls, Fenchurch Street, the site of East India House, St. Mary Woolnoth, the Bank of England Museum, and more.

Are the sites accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the tour starts and ends at stations well connected by London’s public transit system.

Is there any admission fee for the sights visited?
Most stops, including the Roman wall, Fen Gardens, and the Bank of England Museum, are free to enter.

If you’re seeking an authentic story about London’s financial growth and the shadows cast by slavery, this tour offers a well-balanced, thoughtful way to connect with the city’s deeper history. It’s a compelling, affordable choice that turns familiar streets into a living lesson in history and responsibility.