Guildhall: The Historic Heart of London's City Governance
Discover Guildhall, London’s medieval civic heart where Roman ruins, grand halls, and centuries of history converge in the City’s vibrant core.
Guildhall, located at 71 Basinghall Street in London’s historic financial district, is a medieval civic building dating back to the early 15th century. It serves as the ceremonial and administrative center of the City of London Corporation, featuring the grand Great Hall, medieval crypts, and the Guildhall Art Gallery with a Roman amphitheatre beneath. Guildhall is a symbol of London's rich history, hosting state events, trials, and civic ceremonies for centuries.
A brief summary to Guildhall
- 71 Basinghall St, London, EC2V 7HH, GB
- +442076063030
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book monthly guided tours in advance to access the Great Hall and learn about the City’s governance and history.
- Visit the Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman amphitheatre for free to explore London’s ancient past and rich art collections.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the site involves walking through galleries and archaeological areas.
- Check the schedule for special events or exhibitions held in the Guildhall courtyard.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central or Northern Line to Bank station, then walk approximately 10 minutes through the City of London’s financial district to reach Guildhall. The journey typically takes 20-30 minutes from central London. Bank station is well connected but can be busy during peak hours.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the area around Guildhall, including routes 21, 43, and 76. The nearest stops are on Gresham Street and London Wall, about a 5-minute walk away. Buses run frequently, with fares payable by contactless or Oyster card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at 71 Basinghall Street. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Note that congestion charges apply in the City of London during weekdays.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Guildhall offers a scenic route through historic City streets. Expect a 15-25 minute walk from landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral or the Bank of England, with mostly flat, paved terrain suitable for most visitors.
Guildhall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Guildhall
Ancient Foundations and Roman Legacy
Guildhall stands on a site rich with history, originally home to Londinium’s Roman amphitheatre built around AD 70. Excavations beneath the Guildhall Art Gallery reveal remains of this vast amphitheatre, once the largest in Roman Britain, where crowds gathered for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. The elliptical outline of the amphitheatre is marked in the courtyard paving, linking the present to London’s Roman past. The location’s significance continued through the Anglo-Saxon period, with the earliest recorded Guildhall dating to the early 12th century, serving as the city’s administrative hub.The Medieval Great Hall and Civic Power
The current Guildhall building, constructed between 1411 and 1440 by John Croxton, is the oldest secular building in the City of London. Its Great Hall, the third largest civic hall in England, was designed to showcase the power and prestige of London’s merchant rulers. This medieval Gothic hall has hosted grand ceremonies, state trials—including that of Lady Jane Grey—and important meetings of the City’s governing bodies. Despite suffering damage in the Great Fire of London and during World War II bombings, the hall’s medieval stone structure remains largely intact, with much of the interior restored post-war.Architectural Splendor and Artistic Treasures
Guildhall’s architecture blends medieval Gothic elements with later additions, including a neo-Gothic grand entrance from the late 18th century. The building houses impressive memorials to British historical figures such as Nelson and Wellington, alongside statues of legendary giants Gog and Magog, symbolic guardians of the City. The Guildhall Art Gallery, opened in 1999, exhibits Victorian and historical paintings, including the monumental "The Defeat of the Floating Batteries at Gibraltar". Beneath the gallery, visitors can explore the Roman amphitheatre ruins and a detailed 3D model of London, enriching the cultural experience.Role in London's Civic Life and Events
Guildhall remains the ceremonial and administrative heart of the City of London Corporation. It hosts the annual Lord Mayor’s Banquet, the Coronation banquet, and meetings of the Court of Common Council, the City’s elected assembly. The building has witnessed significant historical events, from medieval governance to modern-day civic functions. Monthly guided tours offer insight into the City’s governance, history, and architecture, though access to some areas like the Great Hall is limited due to its active use.Community Engagement and Cultural Significance
Beyond governance, Guildhall serves as a cultural hub, with its courtyard hosting events and art installations that blend history with contemporary creativity. The site fosters public engagement through its art gallery and educational displays, connecting visitors with London’s layered past. The preservation of the medieval crypts and the integration of Roman archaeological finds highlight Guildhall’s unique role as a living monument bridging centuries of London’s story.Visiting Experience and Accessibility
Visitors can explore the Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman amphitheatre free of charge, with wheelchair-accessible facilities and hearing loops available. The Great Hall and other historic rooms are accessible via monthly guided tours requiring advance booking. The surrounding Guildhall Yard offers a striking blend of historic and modern architecture, providing a picturesque setting in the City’s oldest quarter. The site’s combination of history, architecture, and ongoing civic life makes it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
0.3 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
London City Wall - Bastion 14
0.3 km
Explore Bastion 14, a medieval bastion built on Roman foundations, revealing centuries of London’s ancient city defenses in the Barbican.
London City wall
0.4 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval London City Wall, a monumental symbol of the city’s enduring history and resilience.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.4 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Cornhill Fountain
0.4 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.5 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
113 Cannon St
0.5 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.5 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Historic England
0.6 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Temple Bar London
0.6 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Liverpool Street
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant heart of London at Liverpool Street Station, a historic transport hub with modern amenities and access to iconic attractions.
Queen Anne Statue
0.6 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
College of Arms
0.7 km
Discover the College of Arms: A Historic Icon of British Heraldry in the Heart of London, Showcasing Art and Tradition.
St Bartholomew the Great
0.7 km
Medieval sanctuary where nine centuries of English history unfold within Norman and Gothic walls.
Unmissable attractions to see
London's Roman Amphitheatre
0.0 km
Step beneath Guildhall Yard to explore London’s only Roman amphitheatre, a 2,000-year-old arena of gladiators, wild beasts, and ancient spectacle.
Guildhall Art Gallery
0.0 km
Discover London’s rich art heritage and ancient Roman past beneath the striking semi-Gothic facade of the Guildhall Art Gallery.
St Lawrence Jewry
0.1 km
Discover St Lawrence Jewry, Wren’s exquisite 17th-century guild church and the official sanctuary of London’s Lord Mayor, rich in history and serene beauty.
The City Of London Police Museum
0.1 km
Explore the rich history of London's oldest police force within the City’s historic Guildhall complex.
Guildhall Library
0.1 km
Discover London’s history through the world’s largest city-focused library, housed within the historic Guildhall complex.
St Mary Aldermanbury Garden
0.1 km
Historic garden marking the site of Wren’s St Mary Aldermanbury church, linking Shakespeare, Churchill, and transatlantic heritage in the heart of London.
St Margaret Lothbury
0.2 km
Discover St Margaret Lothbury, a Baroque masterpiece by Christopher Wren nestled in London's financial heart, rich with history and exquisite woodwork.
St Mary-le-Bow Church
0.3 km
Discover St Mary-le-Bow, the iconic Wren church on Cheapside, home to the legendary Bow Bells and centuries of London history.
1 Poultry
0.3 km
A striking postmodern landmark in London’s financial heart, blending bold design, rich history, and panoramic rooftop views.
London Wall Museum Of London
0.3 km
Explore the ancient Roman city wall and artefacts at the Museum of London London Wall, a unique historical gem in Barbican.
Bank of England Museum
0.3 km
Explore over 300 years of British financial history and try lifting a real gold bar at this free, interactive museum in the heart of London’s financial district.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.3 km
Discover St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historic City sanctuary blending Dutch-inspired architecture with a vibrant musical legacy.
Mansion House
0.3 km
Explore Mansion House, the grand Palladian residence of the Lord Mayor of London, rich with history, art, and ceremonial splendor.
St Giles Cripplegate
0.4 km
Explore St Giles Cripplegate, a historic Anglican church in London's Barbican, rich in culture and architectural beauty, perfect for history lovers.
St Vedast alias Foster
0.4 km
A historic City of London church blending medieval roots, Wren’s baroque spire, and wartime resilience in a tranquil urban sanctuary.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.4 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
14 Hills
0.8 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
St. John
0.9 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
0.9 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.1 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
La Dame de Pic London
1.1 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
George
1.3 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Lyle's
1.3 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.4 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
1.5 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
The Clove Club
1.5 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.6 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.7 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barbican Shop
0.5 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Smithfield Market
0.8 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Middlesex Textiles
1.0 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.0 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Borough Yards
1.1 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Spitalfields Market
1.1 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.2 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Traders Gate
1.2 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Commercial St
1.2 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Tower of London Shop
1.2 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Sclater Street Market
1.3 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
Hay's Galleria
1.3 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Fashion St
1.3 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.4 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
The Truman Brewery Markets
1.4 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.4 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.7 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
0.7 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
Flight Club Shoreditch
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Aviary
0.8 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.8 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
0.9 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
Dirty Dicks
0.9 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Astronomer, EC1
0.9 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
0.9 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Moonshine Saloon
0.9 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
0.9 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
Black Parrot
1.0 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
1.0 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.0 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.7 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
London Best Night Clubs
1.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
XOYO LONDON
1.1 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Hoxton Pony
1.3 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
1.4 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
1.7 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Proud Late
2.0 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Carwash Nightclub
2.0 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Ministry of Sound
2.1 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.2 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
E1
2.2 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Cirque Du Soul
2.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
The Roxy
2.4 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Medieval Gothic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
