The City of London, contained within the Roman walls that largely existed until the 17th century, developed its own commercial identity along its tight-knit medieval pattern of narrow streets and alleyways. Walking through its heart, we will discover the foundations for trade and business; admire the architecture of churches, livery halls and important financial institutions and learn how major events in the City’s history have affected trade. The City used to be highly populated with people living close to their business and places of worship. Now under 8000 people live in the City of London whilst over 350,000 (and increasing) people commute into the City each working day, contributing to a dramatic and quieter change of atmosphere and identity at the weekends. We will learn about the 1990s IRA bombings and attempts to destroy buildings relating to its financial infrastructure and we see how business developments and skyscrapers, competing for space and reaching for the sky are changing the City’s sky-line.

You can check travel options at the Transport for London Journey Planner.