Financial London Walk

Financial London Walk

Explore today’s markets and their historical roots. Discover the financial world in the City of London.

By Ian McDiarmid from London Guided Walks

Select date and time

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 13:00 - 14:30 GMT+1

Location

Aviva Building entrance, St Helen's Square

1 Undershaft St Helen's Square London EC3A 8EE United Kingdom

Refund Policy

Contact the organiser to request a refund.
Eventbrite's fee is nonrefundable.

About this event

  • 1 hour 30 minutes

Immerse yourself in the rich and riveting financial history of the City of London! Join our expert guide, Ian, a certified authority on the City of London, for an insightful walking tour through the heart of Europe's financial powerhouse.

This enlightening 90-minute journey blends modernity with history, weaving through the narrow, winding alleys that once buzzed with the influential deals of the 17th and 18th centuries, catapulting London to global prominence.

Delve into the fascinating world of equities, bonds, commodities, and insurance markets. Experience how they function in today's fast-paced world and comprehend their crucial role in the UK’s thriving economy. From the alleyways echoing with past financial dramas to the awe-inspiring architecture reflecting London's prosperity, we've got it all!

Get up close and personal with the captivating stories of financial moguls who rolled the dice, accumulating vast wealth or facing drastic losses, thereby shaping London into the financial fulcrum it is today.

This tour is not just about finance and history, but also an exploration of an architectural spectacle, where narrow, historic lanes meet towering world-class edifices.

Here's what's in store:

  • A journey through the city’s financial past and present
  • Exploration of narrow alleyways and breathtaking architecture
  • Engrossing tales of fortunes made and lost
  • Expert insights from a qualified City of London guide
  • An accessible, step-free, linear 90-minute walk

The starting point is the iconic St Mary Axe. So why wait? If you’re a curious-minded Brit with an appetite for learning, this tour offers the perfect blend of financial history and city exploration! Uncover the secrets behind London's financial prominence, right at your footsteps.

"We attended ‘London as a Financial Centre’ guided walk on a hot July Saturday and absolutely loved it! Our guide Ian McDiarmid was simply amazing – he met us all at the designated spot, went through the rules and we set off on the little adventure through the maze of narrow streets learning so much about historic and contemporary financial London. He had so much knowledge, was pointing out different banks, explaining origins, development and roles in the overall financial structure; threw in many anecdotes, curious stories and even origins of some common modern phrases. He easily directed and enchanted group of 18 and we did not notice how 1.5 hours flew by. Even my moody pre-teen was absolutely captivated! Many many thanks for the amazing experience! You are doing an amazing job!" Nazima

“Very informative, interesting tour. Recommend it.” Jeff

“Incredibly informative. The leader packed in loads of history as well as the current workings of the City.” Ann

Frequently asked questions

Is this wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately not. This walk involves 12 steps (with handrail)

Organised by

Qualified City of London Tour Guide & Lecturer

Ian qualified as a City of London tour guide in 2017 and has a particular passion for Roman and Medieval history, having in an earlier incarnation studied history at Cambridge and London universities.

He began working life in the early 80s in the City, and has since written extensively on the share and bond markets as a journalist. He loves talking finance and taking people around the narrow alleys where today’s massive trading centre was born.

When not walking and talking, Ian enjoys pottering about in the garden. His expertise is such that he often spends several hours doing this.

Ian’s private walking tours explore hidden places which many guidebooks simply just don’t cover.

£20