About this Event
There’s magic in the air! Christmas is a-coming and the City is looking magnificent.
Join me for a seasonal stroll around the sparkling square mile - the historic heart of London where centuries’ old traditions meet a vibrant, modern city.
Why do we deck the halls with boughs of holly and ivy? Who invented the Christmas cracker? And why was Christmas once cancelled completely? We’ll learn how Christmas evolved from a Roman festival, through curious medieval customs, to the massive BOOM of Victorian Christmas (all the time tipping a hat to Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’). And yes; explain that “oops!” moment in the 17th century!
Highlights include the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral - lit up in splendour; the lights in Bow Lane, Cheapside and Bank Junction; Guildhall Yard, and Leadenhall Market. My particular favourite is exploring the nooks and crannies of the City’s fascinating alleys you might not know even existed.There’s so much to be explored beneath the surface!
The walk ends at Leadenhall Market. Why not stop for a drink, or maybe ascend to one of the City's fantastic viewing platforms nearby at Horizon 22 (https://horizon22.co.uk) or The Lookout (The Lookout) (pre-booking from 6.30pm strongly advised). If there are any carol services or concerts in the City this evening, I'll let you know!
I am a qualified City of London Guide. Please email me [email protected] if you have any questions.
Event venue & nearby stays
St. Paul's Underground Station outside Caffe Nero, Cheapside, London, United Kingdom