The Freemasons Tour of London

An Authentic Look at London’s Knights, Crusaders, and Freemasons

This private tour in London offers an intriguing journey through the city’s secretive past, especially related to knights, Crusaders, Templars, and Freemasons. Priced at around $247 per person, it lasts about three hours, with the added convenience of hotel pickup and a carefully curated itinerary that takes you to lesser-known sites and iconic landmarks alike. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience is ideal if you’re craving a mix of history, mystery, and the kind of local stories that often go unnoticed by traditional sightseeing tours.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the personalized attention you get — it’s a private experience, so your guide can tailor the narrative and give you clear, insightful explanations. Second, I love the way it balances hidden gems with well-known spots like St. Paul’s Cathedral and Temple Church, offering both a sense of discovery and the chance to stand in places many visitors overlook. Perhaps most intriguingly, you’ll visit sites that feature in famous films and literature, such as “The Da Vinci Code”’s Temple Church and Dickens’s Old Curiosity Shop.

A potential consideration is the tour’s pace—covering so much in just three hours means some stops are quick, and the walking can be brisk. If you prefer in-depth exploration of each site, this might feel a little hurried. Also, keep in mind that the museum visits are scheduled tightly, and some sites are closed on certain days, like Mondays and Tuesdays, so check ahead if you have specific interests.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Offers a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide.
• Unique Sites: Visits include hidden well-known locales, military and religious landmarks, and film-famous spots.
• Convenience: Complimentary hotel pickup makes logistics easier.
• History & Stories: Focuses on the intriguing roles of knights, Templars, and Freemasons in London’s past.
• Efficient Itinerary: Covers many sites in just three hours, ideal for travelers short on time.
• Value for Enthusiasts: The inclusion of sites like Freemasons’ Hall and Temple Church makes it especially appealing for those interested in secret societies and historic architecture.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour packs a lot into a few hours, starting with Clerk’s Well—a little-known medieval well that surprisingly gave its name to an entire London district. Here, your guide might mention how secretive wells and underground spaces often tie into London’s layered past. The next stop, the Marx Memorial Library, offers a glimpse into London’s political undercurrents with its communist heritage, providing a stark contrast to the religious sites ahead.

St John Priory Church and St John’s Gate are beautiful medieval structures with stories of military and religious significance. The Museum of the Order of St John is a highlight—its collection of weapons and armor hints at the knights’ martial tradition, although it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. Nearby, Charterhouse reveals the aftermath of the Black Death, with a recently discovered skeleton of a plague victim adding a visceral touch to the history.

Walking around, you encounter St. Bartholomew the Great, London’s oldest church, built by Crusaders, then move to the Temple Church, famed for its Templar connection and featured in popular films. This peaceful sanctuary acts as a centerpiece of the tour. Nearby, the Inner Temple and Middle Temple are legal districts steeped in history, often seen as film sets for period dramas like Downton Abbey.

Other notable sites include William Wallace’s memorial, which marks the spot where the Scottish hero died, and Christchurch Greyfriars Garden, a tranquil park with ruins shadowing St. Paul’s. The walk along Fleet Street offers stories of London’s notorious newspaper past and monastic ruins tucked into alleyways.

The tour concludes at Freemasons’ Hall, the impressive headquarters of the United Grand Lodge of England. Here, visitors get a glimpse of Masonic symbols and architecture, understanding how secret societies have influenced the city’s history. The Hall’s free entry to the crypt and the external tour of the lodge make it a fitting end to this journey into London’s shadowed past.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

The guides, especially Kevin, receive glowing praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm. As one review states, Kevin’s storytelling made the experience both educational and lively, making little-known sites engaging rather than just passing landmarks. The hidden treasures, from the Seven Stars pub—a former Freemason meeting place—to the Old Curiosity Shop immortalized by Dickens, add an element of discovery that’s perfect for history lovers or those curious about secret societies.

The carefully curated itinerary ensures you won’t miss key sites, and the mobility of the group allows for quick transitions between locations—ideal for travelers without a lot of time but craving depth. Many reviews highlight the stunning views and the chance to see a more authentic, less-touristy side of London.

One potential drawback: because it’s a three-hour tour with many stops, some sites are visited briefly. If you’re passionate about a specific location, you might feel it’s a quick peek rather than a detailed walk-through. Still, the balance of famous and obscure makes this tour rewarding, especially when combined with your own exploration afterward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, the curious traveler, or anyone interested in secret societies and their influence on London. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a personal, flexible, and informative alternative to crowded group tours. If you value authentic stories, hidden corners, and well-informed guides, you’ll find this tour highly satisfying.

The private nature makes it a good choice for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more tailored experience. The walking is moderate, so travelers with a reasonable fitness level will enjoy it comfortably. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a blend of culture, history, and film locations in a compact time frame.

FAQ about the Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup from your accommodation, making logistics smoother and giving you more time to enjoy your day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, covering numerous sites at a pace that balances seeing everything with enough time to take it all in.

What sites are included in the itinerary?
You’ll visit a wide range of locations: secret wells, ancient churches, monastic ruins, famous gates, and Masonic halls—each telling part of London’s layered past.

Are the Museum of the Order of St John and other sites open on Mondays and Tuesdays?
No, the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly or check in advance.

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, personal transportation is included, which helps cover the extensive itinerary comfortably.

What should I wear or prepare for?
Expect a good amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. The tour involves a fair amount of outdoor walking and brief stops, so dress appropriately for weather conditions.

Can I join this tour if I have limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical activity; if you have mobility concerns, consider the walking involved and discuss with the tour provider beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This Freemasons Tour of London offers a wonderful alternative for travelers wanting to see both celebrated landmarks and hidden stories that most tours miss. Its private setting and knowledgeable guides really elevate the experience, making history accessible and engaging. You’ll love the opportunity to explore lesser-known sites like Clerk’s Well and the crypt at Freemasons’ Hall, while also soaking in the atmosphere of iconic places like Temple Church and St. Paul’s.

The tour’s balance of depth and brevity makes it ideal for visitors who want a meaningful overview without feeling rushed. For those especially interested in medieval knights, Templar legends, Freemason traditions, or just curious about London’s darker corners, this trip is a value-packed choice.

However, if you’re after a slow, in-depth exploration of each site, or visiting on days when some locations are closed, you might want to supplement this with your own visits. Overall, it’s a well-rounded, insightful experience that blends history, storytelling, and some of London’s most intriguing secrets.