The Mayflower Private Walking Tour
Highlights
- Visit the ruins of Winchester Palace
- Explore the eerie Clink Prison Museum
- Step on board the replica Golden Hinde ship
- Learn about the history of Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance
- Discover the beautiful Southwark Cathedral
-
Private tour
-
Local professional guide
-
Duration 3 hours
-
Hotel pickup and drop-off
-
Wheelchair accessible
-
Available in English
Experience the hidden gems of London's South Bank on The Mayflower Private Walking Tour. This tour takes you on a journey through two thousand years of rich history, revealing the lesser-known yet fascinating sites along the River Thames. From the Millennium Bridge, connecting St Paul's Cathedral and the Tate Modern, to the eerie Clink Prison Museum and the replica of the famous Golden Hinde ship of exploration, each step unveils a new story. Walk through Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance, where thousands of plague victims were buried, and visit Southwark Cathedral, a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists. Explore Borough Market, a food lover's paradise with a thousand years of history, and learn the dark secrets of London Bridge. From the architectural marvels of Hay's Galleria and City Hall to the iconic Tower Bridge, this tour offers a captivating insight into London's vibrant past. Don't miss the opportunity to uncover the history that shaped this city. Book The Mayflower Private Walking Tour now.
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
3 hours
-
Available in English
-
Wheelchair accessible
-
Mobile voucher
-
Private Tour
-
Guided
-
Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore London's hidden history on a unique private walking tour along the South Bank, uncovering tales of the past and iconic landmarks.
Included
-
Local guide
-
Private tour
-
Professional guide
-
Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
Excluded
-
Transportation to/from attractions
Meeting Point
The tour starts from just outside Mansion House Tube Station.
Underground Ltd Station, Mansion House, 38 Cannon St, London EC4N 6JD , United Kingdom
End Point
Why not stay on after the tour and have a drink or meal at The Mayflower Pub?
117 Rotherhithe St, London SE16 4NF , United Kingdom
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Millennium Bridge
The newest bridge in London, connecting St Pauls Cathedral and the Tate Modern, the largest Modern Art gallery in the world. You ight recognise the bridge from Harry Potter and other shows.
Tate Modern
The worlds biggest Modern Art Gallery, housed in an old power station. Many of the places we will pass have been converted into new use!
Winchester Palace
See the ruins of the once magnificent palace that miraculously survived centuries of industry and WW2.
The Clink Prison Museum
We'll visit the eerie and atmospheric site of what may have been the most horrendous prison in Britain if not the world. You don't have to use too much imagination to see how it must have been even though the area now is extremely fashionable.
Golden Hinde
A replica of the famous ship of exploration, giving an insight to what these parts used to be like.
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance
We will visit the resting place of thousands of plague victims, criminals and 'fallen' women who were buried unceremoniously here and learn of the dreadful poverty that so inspired social reform and the writings of Charles Dickens
Marshalsea Prison South Wall
Visit the small park that was once the location of a dreaded Debtors prison where Charles Dickens family was incarcerated.
The George
See the only remaining Galleried Tavern in London, the haunt of many a famous writing. The yard in front is where the pilgrims assembled in the Canterbury Tales.
Southwark Cathedral
Now part of London, Southwark was once and still is its own city and here is its beautiful and often overlook Cathedral.
Borough Market
The site of the world famous food market with food from around the world. There has been a market here of some sorts for at least 1,000 years and possibly since Roman times.
London Bridge
The world famous London Bridge, find out why it is here at all and learn about the awful things that used to happen here.
Hay's Galleria
Once the worlds first covered dockyard, now a place of leisure and good-eating.
HMS Belfast
See the old WW2 Royal Navy Cruiser, now berthed up as a tourist attraction.
City Hall
The home of the Mayor of London and the London Assembly. You'll see why it has the nick name of the Armadillo.
Tower of London
From the outside, we will see the old Tower of London, sat right next to the Thames.
The Scoop
One of Londons very modern outdoor theatres.
Tower Bridge
We will walk under the famous hydraulic lifting bridge, an icon of London.
Shad Thames
Explore the streets and creeks of what was once the Venice of Drains and the site of murders and executions and all things Charles Dickens.
Edward III's Manor House
Centuries ago this was all swamp land and Kind Edward III built a hunting lodge here, the remains of which were relatively recently unearthed.
The Angel
This old pub was a smugglers den and reaches out over the Thames where the trap doors can still be seen. Captain Cook set sail from here on his Voyages of Discovery whilst the Hanging Judge use to sit nearby to watch his sentences be carried out.
St Mary's Church, Rotherhithe
This beautiful old church in what was once the village of Rotherhithe has a monument to the Pilgrim Fathers. The 'Captain' of the Mayflower is buried here and the ship was beached up on the Thames behind.
The Mayflower Pub
Visit the famous old pub from where the crew of the Mayflower ship departed for the new world. Perhaps return here after the tour to have a great drink or pub meal.
The Brunel Museum at Rotherhithe
The famed Victorian Engineer Brunel built the very first under water tunnel here... the trains still use it today. At one point it could take days if not weeks for ships to dock on the Thames and this was hoped to be part of the solution.
The Watchhouse Café
This funky organic cafe is a great place to drink or grab a cheeky snack. It was once though a Watch House where dead bodies washed up on beaches of Rotherhithe were brought to protect them from thieves and body snatchers until the authorities arrived.
Rotherhithe Picture Research Gallery
In this old industrial building amongst the warehouses is now a jewel of cinema and heritage costuming as well as having a lovely old cafe. Many period costumes are made here for television and movies and the reference library is full of photos of how this part of London used to look.
Rotherhithe
The tour finishes at Rotherhithe Station for easy onward journey to your hotel or next destination
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
-
Wheelchair accessible
-
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
-
Service animals allowed
-
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
-
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
-
Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
-
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
-
We have earmarked this tour as especially safe during the Coronavirus outbreak due to generally quiet places that we visit where social distancing is generally not a problem. All of our tours are private so it is just you/your family and your guide. To make it easier and safer for all concerned we would suggest starting this tour a little later than the usual time, perhaps around 10.30-11am which allows us all to miss rush-hour. We are happy to still come to your hotel to meet you but for the moment we would suggest meeting us at the tour starting point. This allows you to arrive by a taxi or uber rather than public transport. Please feel free to wear masks throughout or at times during the tour. Your guide will also have a mask with them.
What our experts say
-
Start at 10:30 to avoid crowds.
-
Visit Borough Market for lunch.
-
Check out The Mayflower Pub after.
-
Dress appropriately for weather.
-
Consider bringing a camera for sights.
More About this Experience
Introduction
The Mayflower Private Walking Tour offers a unique and captivating experience, taking you on a journey through the historic sites of London's South Bank. Unlike any other tour, this immersive walking tour unveils the hidden gems and lesser-known attractions that have shaped the rich history of this enchanting city.What to Expect?
Expect to be transported back in time as you explore the South Bank of the River Thames, immersing yourself in over two thousand years of captivating history. From grand theatres to magnificent churches and cathedrals, you will uncover the stories of palaces, prisons, and even hangings and slums. Marvel at the engineering masterpieces that have stood the test of time and learn about the voyagers who set sail on epic journeys of discovery. Delve into the world of markets, smugglers, and bodysnatchers, and discover the birthplace of America. This tour promises a fascinating insight into the lesser-known aspects of London's history.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to explore a different side of London. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this tour offers a fresh perspective on the city's rich past. The Mayflower Private Walking Tour welcomes individuals, couples, families, and groups, making it an inclusive experience for all. Step off the beaten path and discover the hidden treasures that London has to offer.Why Book This?
Embark on this extraordinary tour to uncover the secrets of London's South Bank. With a knowledgeable local guide leading the way, you'll gain unique insights and fascinating anecdotes about the sites you visit. This tour stands out for its focus on the lesser-known parts of the city, allowing you to explore a side of London often overlooked by other tourists. By booking this tour, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating history of the South Bank, unveiling stories that have shaped the city's identity.Good to Know
During the Mayflower Private Walking Tour, you'll be accompanied by a professional guide who will provide a wealth of knowledge and captivating stories. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience. However, transportation to and from the attractions is not included, giving you the flexibility to explore the South Bank at your own pace after the tour. After your journey through history, why not extend your experience by visiting The Mayflower Pub, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal?Reviews
Individuals who have taken part in the Mayflower Private Walking Tour have praised the tour for its captivating storytelling and the opportunity to explore the lesser-known parts of London. They highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of the local guide, who brings the history of the South Bank to life. Visitors have expressed their satisfaction with the overall experience, describing it as a must-do for history enthusiasts and those seeking an alternative perspective on London's rich heritage. Don't miss the chance to embark on this unforgettable journey through time.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is