Private Walking Tour: Essential London and Hidden Gems

The following steps are an example itinerary. I will make sure the day is personalised to your interests and pace. Let me show you London... Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British Monarch. Thousands of people flock here to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and hope to spot a member of the Royal Family. Originally called Buckingham House, it was built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703, and then later bought by King George III. subsequent Monarchs extended the building and by Queen Victoria's reign it became an official royal residence. Maybe the Queen will be in residence? Look up at the flag, if the Royal Standard is flying "one is home".

Originally St Peter's Abbey founded in 960AD, it became "West -Minster" to distinguish is from St Paul's Cathedral "The East-Minster". Since William the Conquerors coronation in 1066 all Monarchs have been crowned here. and some of the most famous people in British history have been buried here. In recent years Princess Diana's funeral was held here, and the marriage of her son Prince William to Catherine Middleton, both of which were watched by millions around the world.

This impressive Gothic Building houses the British parliament and the House of Lords. Technically this is still a Royal Palace with origins back to Edward the Confessor. A fire devastated the original Palace in the time of Henry VIII and he moved out, however his advisers and shire representatives continued to meet in the rooms that escaped the fire. This continued until 1834 when another fire destroyed the Parliament buildings. The present building complete with "Big Ben" was finished in 1870.

This is the area of London where Government business is carried out. We will pass 10 Downing Street, (the Prime ministers residence) Horse-guards Parade, and The Churchill War rooms. Just before we get to Trafalgar Square, Sherlock Holmes fans may like to see Great Scotland Yard, and The Sherlock Holmes Pub, a location from Hound of The Baskervilles.

Let's pause for a moment in the dead centre of London. From the Charles I statue all distances from London to other cities are measured. King Charles looks down Whitehall toward the place he was beheaded in 1649. But Trafalgar Square is really all about one man, Admiral Lord Nelson. The square was laid out in his honour in 1844. There are some interesting and beautiful buildings around this square, let me tell you about them before we move on.....

Originally the "Convent Garden" that grew produce for Westminster Abbey's monastic community, it later became London's red light district, and a playground for the Aristocracy including King Charles II who met Nell Gwynn in the local Theaters and Taverns. The fruit, vegetable and flower market dominated the area during Charles Dickens time, and is often referenced in his stories. This market continued until 1974 when it was moved to South London. Now the area is full of street performers, busy shops, restaurants and cafes. A must do stop when in London.

Now we have covered some of the famous landmarks, lets go in search of the London often missed by most tourists. This area of London is 2000 years old. Crossing over into the City of London you will be taken into the Inns of Court, a hidden world used by the legal profession, and a haven not usually visited by most tourists. Prepare to learn about The Knights Templar, William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens and how WW2 effected the area.

After pausing for a break at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, a truly Dickensian Pub the tour continues on to a Church Crypt that was opened up as a result of bomb damage during WW2. This little known Crypt Museum contains Roman Pavements and charred remains from the Great Fire of London.

There has been a site of Christian worship here for over 1000 years. The old St Paul's was destroyed in the Great Fire Of London in 1666. The 'new' St Paul's was built by Sir Christopher Wren over a 40 year period starting in 1668. It is his masterpiece, and one of London's most iconic landmarks. Just a short stroll from the Cathedral there are buildings that survived the great fire, and the spot where William Wallace (Braveheart) was executed. Sherlock Holmes fans may like to also see St Bart's, the hospital where Holmes and Watson first met.

The City of London or Square Mile is the ancient heart of London and home to the financial district. The Bank of England, the Royal Exchange, and the spooky Cornhill Devils are highlights on this point of the tour, as well as Ebeneezer Scrooges Counting House and Charles Dickens favourite restaurant, which are all reached by walking down some of London's oldest surviving courts and alleys.

One of London's oldest and prettiest markets on the site of a Roman cross road. It's no wonder that Leadenhall Market has featured in some of the worlds most famous movies and novels. Most recently as a filming location for the Harry Potter Films, and the market where Ebeneezer Scrooge sends the boy to get the biggest Turkey on Christmas morning.

One of the most devastating events in London's history took place just near where Monument Underground Station now stands. This is where the great Fire of London started in 1666 destroying 80% of the old city of London. Fortunately your guide knows some of the areas that survived. The Monument itself is 62 Meters high, and has 311 steps to the top. The view is well worth the effort, and those wishing to make the climb are more than welcome.

The White Tower is the oldest in tact building in London. Built by William the Conqueror in the 1080's to defend the new capital of England. Up until the Norman conquest Winchester was England's capital. This world famous landmark has had a varied and often bloody history, not to mention its numerous ghost stories! Your tour will end here by the magnificent Tower Bridge. I am more than happy to escort you back to your hotel, or assist you in making it to your next location. A truly personalised and fun way to see London's sites with a local expert guide.