Trade and craft guilds have flourished for centuries. The City of London’s Livery Companies are unique in their survival, number, and diversity. While the original social and economic conditions that created these original guilds have long been overtaken by modern commerce, these fascinating institutions still flourish today. Join us to explore their enduring history and modern impact.

The Barbican is a residential complex of around 2,000 flats, maisonettes, and houses in the City of London. Built on the site destroyed by The Blitz during the World War II, The Barbican Estate is a fascinating development and an icon of Brutalist architecture. Architects were Chamberlain, Powell and Bon. You will find an oasis in the middle of buildings, with gardens and water features.

Chamberlain Powell and Bon, 1970

On this walk, we will see many historic & modern buildings in the City of London. We’ll look at different architecture styles having regard to the environment and sustainability, from heritage sites to pioneering green tech. Hear about famous architects, past and present, as we explore how the Square Mile preserves its legacy while evolving for a resilient, carbon-neutral tomorrow.

Publicly accessible space outside the spectacular Grade I listed medieval civic Guildhall.

George Dance the Younger, 1789

First built in c.1136, St. Lawrence Jewry was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666. The present church was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1671. The interiors were destroyed in December 1940 during the World War Two and restored in 1957, faithful to Wren’s original design. Extensive conservation works were completed in 2023. The official church to the City of London Corporation.

Sir Christopher Wren, 1670

Once again City of London cultural sites have pulled together to create an Open House offering for families. Join Guildhall Art Gallery, the Insurance Museum, London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE, St Paul’s Cathedral and Dr Johnson’s House to celebrate architecture, heritage and placemaking in the City. Pick up a map or join the walking bus to explore it all.

Richard Gilbert Scott, 1999

Open daily 10am-5pm. Regular free guided tours 12.15pm & 1.15pm on Tuesday-Sunday, with extra tours on the final Open House weekend. Home of the City of London's art collection, & remains of London's Roman Amphitheatre

Richard Gilbert Scott, 1999

On Sunday, 2 September 1666, the Great Fire of London started at a bakery in Pudding Lane, destroying thousands of homes, 87 churches, and St. Paul's Cathedral. On this walk, we will explore this dramatic story, discover the causes and outcomes of the fire and see how Christopher Wren helped rebuild the city from the ashes.

Christopher Wren, 1666

The capital’s only Roman Amphitheatre. Regular combined guided tours of Amphitheatre and Guildhall Art Gallery at 12.15pm & 1.15pm on Tuesday-Sunday. Additional Open House tours on 19 and 20 September, please see Guildhall Art Gallery listing.

Roman , 70

The City's seat of municipal government since 12C. Grade I listed, rare example of medieval civic architecture. Historic banqueting hall and a site of major moments in British history that is still used today.

John Croxton, 1440

Purpose built over 5 floors to house printed books and manuscripts. Features include former pneumatic tube ticket delivery system and 56 listed translucent pyramid roof lights.

Sir Giles Scott, Son + Partners, 1974