This walking tour is for everybody with an interest in London’s extraordinary culture and heritage! Discover the fascinating story of London’s Jewish population from medieval to modern times - such as the Jews brought to England by William the Conqueror after 1066, the expulsion under Edward I in 1290, the resettlement of the Jews three centuries later under Cromwell, and subsequent Jewish immigration and integration up to the present day.
Starting at Aldgate close to the East End, we will cross the ancient City of London (the ‘Square Mile’) learning about London’s 2000-year history. Our walking route will take us past many famous City sites, including key locations that are connected to London’s 1000 years of Jewish history.
Learn about the lives, struggles and achievements of London’s Jews over many centuries, and about some fascinating personalities. Hear about modern Jewish life in Britain and around the world.
Our stops and stories will include:
• London’s first 1000 years - Romans, Saxons and Normans
• Old Jewry - Site of the Great Synagogue of medieval London (1272)
• Site of Creechurch Lane synagogue (1657 - 1701)
• Site of the Great Ashkenazi synagogue (1692 - 1941)
• Bevis Marks Sephardi synagogue (1701 – present)
• What's in a name? Old Jewry, Jewry Street, Church of St Lawrence Jewry
• Mansion House and Guildhall (Jewish Lord Mayors)
• Lloyd's of London, Leadenhall Market
• Bank of England, Royal Exchange
• St Paul’s Cathedral
• Historic churches, pubs and coffee houses
• London’s modern buildings (Lloyds, Gherkin, Cheesegrater)
• Famous Jewish personalities – fact and fiction
Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into centuries of London history!
