Borough to Bankside

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Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:
Trip Valid:1 Nov 2009 to 30 Jun 2010
Duration:4 hours
Pickup location:
Monument Tube Station.(facing Subway and the Monument itself)
Pickup time:10.00 AM
Drop-off location:
Tate Modern Art Gallery.
Drop-off time:2.00 PM
Highlights:
Starting in the historic city, we cross the Thames for amazing views and darker history. Walking the old backstreets & river paths, we unravel the history ancient London, visiting old pubs, operating theatres, markets & playhouses. We pass the “wobbly bridge” before ending in the gigantic Turbine Hall of the Tate Modern.
Trip Code:UKUE
Group size:Minimum 1, Maximum 12
Price:GBP 23.00
Style:Walking & Orientation with local transport, Heritage & History.
Cross historic London Bridge, find the world’s oldest operating theatre (hidden for 100 years). See the pub where Chaucer & Dicken’s drank, and taste the gourmet delights of “London’s Larder” in Borough Market. Visit Southwark Cathedral, the Globe theatre and the modern masterpiece of Tate Modern.
Itinerary
We start in the heart of the old historical centre of the City of London, yards from where the Great Fire began. We will set the scene, as we travel across London Bridge to the South of the river. Historically an area of poverty, marshes, and depravity it has been regenerated into London’s most interesting districts.
We walk along the Thames with fine vistas back to the City and Tower Bridge. We see HMS Belfast, and turn through Hays Galleria, one of old London’s oldest shipping wharfs.
Wandering the back streets of Bermondsey, we enter King’s College before discovering the oldest operating theatre in the world. Access to the Old Operating Theatre is up a short but steep, narrow spiral staircase.It is worth the squeeze to view this hidden gem. Check out the gruesome amputation tools!
We then discover the only remaining galleried pub in London, hidden in the back streets of Borough. It was here that characters like Chaucer & Dickens would have drunk and written about.
We then explore the gourmet food suppliers of Borough Market, where you can taste oysters, wine, cheese, coffee and much much more…
Standing at the old entrance to the City of London, Southwark cathedral has hosted both princes & paupers. We pop in to see the amazing Gothic architecture, and admire the oldest cathedral in London.
Returning to the Thames, we pass the Golden Hind. An English galleon that circumnavigated the globe over 500 years ago now rests at ease on the Thames.
Continuing down Clink St, the former site of an infamous prison we can follow in the footsteps of Tom Cruise to stop for a drink at the riverside Anchor Inn.
Taking to the backstreets we see the original site of the famous Globe Theatre, and the even older Rose Theatre.
Turning back to the river, we encounter the recreation of the Globe Theatre, and we can book tickets for a Shakespeare performance or a guided tour.
With great views of St Pauls cathedral across the water, we can stop to hear about the “wobbly bridge” and why it was closed within a week of opening!
The tour finishes within an old power station, now regenerated into the Tate Modern art gallery. Stand in awe within the huge Turbine Hall and see how famous artists have created their largest works of art..
Please Note:
- The tour starts at 10am, so if you feel like climbing the 311 steps to the top of the Monument you can do this when it opens at 09:30am!
- Borough Market is only fully open on Thu,Fri,Sat. On other days the main stores are open, but there are less stallholders.
Inclusion
English speaking tour guide, entrance to Old Operating theatre.
Exclusion
Items of a personal nature, tips & gratuities for guide.
Voucher Exchange details
Please present your voucher to the local guide at the beginning of the trip.
Confirmation of booking
Please contact the London Urban Adventures office on 0207 354 6169 to confirm your trip 24 hours prior to departure.
Your trip
Please Note:
- The tour starts at 10am, so if you feel like climbing the 311 steps to the top of the Monument you can do this when it opens at 09:30am!
- Borough Market is only fully open on Thu,Fri,Sat. On other days the main stores are open, but there are less stallholders.
Dress Standard
A good pair of comfortable walking shoes is advisable. Obviously being London, wet weather gear is also useful.
Tipping
If you are happy with the services provided by your local guides and drivers a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid Urban Adventures destinations. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this trip.
Children policy
Younger children may find these tours too tiring. We think they are suitable for children over the age of 11, but if in doubt, please contact us.
Language
English- Cancellations made more than 2 days prior to travel receive a full refund
- Cancellations made 2 days or less prior to travel attract a 100% cancellation fee.
London Urban Adventures unlock the hidden secrets of London. Join us on a London tour to find out what makes the city tick and get acquainted with the local food, culture and traditions.
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