×
Free tour

London Docklands and Waterways

Duration: 1h and 30min
Languages: English
Guru: Eugenio
Registered on November 01, 2023

Enthusiast Italian art historian currently based in London. After having lived in many countries in Europe, researching and comparing the different styles that make each city unique, I decided to share this passion with people who have the same curiosities. My interest is in the context in which a street, a building, or a painting has developed, unraveling its beauty through the knowledge of its history. I studied art history in Italy (Bologna) and Sweden (Stockholm) but deepened my knowledge of northern cultures of the past also in the Netherlands, Belgium, and the UK. In England, I run an independent music label and art magazine, while sometimes I perform my music in unique spaces such as churches, galleries, or museums... places which I love to visit and love to walk to!

Show more
  • Free booking and cancellation
    Free payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free

Tour description

It is still possible to breathe the mystifying air that hovers over the Docklands. This walk will make you discover the big pools and waterways that have characterized for centuries the east of London. Yet, it's not only water that lays behind the history of Wapping and Limehouse: some of the most incredible churches of London are here, among them one by obscure architect Nicholas Hawksmoor which is worth a deepening. Add to that Victorian architecture and monuments dedicated to the Waterloo battle. And when you had enough of history you'll have the possibility to catch sight of the most outstanding views of Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf and eventually just enjoy the pleasant and quiet walks through the mysterious streets and Victorian remains of the Docklands.

Show more
Highlights

What will we visit on this tour?

  • Meeting point:
    Tower Hill, London EC3N 4DJ, UK
    Tower Hill, London EC3N 4DJ, UK
    View on map

    LOOK OUT FOR THE PINK UMBRELLA! Trinity Square Gardens are just next to its homonymous metro station, in front of the Tower of London. We will meet in this park which also hosts the Trinity House, headquarters of the institution founded by Henry VIII in 1514 for the superintendence of security of navigation, and a great introduction to our tour.

  • 1
    Outside visit
    St Katharine Docks Marina

    Georgian Docks, now turned into the London Yacht Club, they still conserve their original shape and some Georgian and Victorian buildings,

  • 2
    Outside visit
    Spirit Quay

    One of the few canals left in London. This hidden area preserves a quiet atmosphere in which to discover more about the Docklands history.

  • 3
    Outside visit
    St George-in-the-East Church

    The most outstanding of the east-end churches. This eclectic architecture is one of the few remaining by Nicholas Hawksmoor, the most important English architect of his time.

  • 4
    Outside visit
    Raine's House

    An outstanding example of a proto Georgian school. Very well conserved and with an intriguing history, just next to St Peter's church, a Victorian mission for the poor. This area will immerse you in history.

  • 5
    Outside visit
    Shadwell Basin

    One of the most beautiful docks of London, from where to discover old and new grade-listed pieces of architecture.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

Tour opinions

5 ratings
5.0
By category
Professionalism
5.0
Fun
5.0
Expression
5.0
Quality
5.0
Route
5.0
Generic
5 stars
5
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
John 01 May 2024
Nice

Verified booking
Travelled in couple - Apr 2024
It was a lovely tour that allowed us to see beautiful sights that seemed remote and quiet but we're actually very close to the tourist areas.
Danka 02 Feb 2024
London

Verified booking
Travelled in group - Feb 2024
Excellent tour for those who are not interested in main London attractions, but more to things ‘behind the scene’. Eugenio has a very good command of history and architecture, and is pleasant to informally talk to. Thoroughly recommended.
G Gamberi 05 Jan 2024

Verified booking
Travelled alone - Jan 2024
Eugenio provides an impressive depth of historical and cultural insights, perfectly blended together during the tour. You really discover a hidden gem and understand how influential the London Docklands have been in the history of the city. It is a must-experience for anyone seeking a rich exploration of the city's heritage.
Tallie 04 Jan 2024
Brisbane

Verified booking
Travelled alone - Jan 2024
Knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Eugenio’s fascinating introduction to the history and development of the Docklands from the 1700s was perfectly pitched and paced. Brilliant descriptions of the evolution of the architecture and explanations of the evolving shipping trade. Highly recommended. Thank you.
Sara 01 Jan 2024
London

Verified booking
Travelled alone - Dec 2023
My recent walk around London Docklands was absolutely fabulous, thanks to the outstanding tour guide. From the get-go, Eugenio's passion for the area's history and evolution was palpable, turning the stroll into an engaging journey through time. Egenio's competence shone as he seamlessly wove together the past and present, making every step a discovery. His anecdotes and insights transformed the surroundings into a living tapestry of stories, captivating my attention throughout. Eugenio's infectious enthusiasm and humor made the tour feel like a leisurely walk with a knowledgeable friend rather than a guided excursion. In short, if you're looking for a captivating journey through London's Docklands with a guide who truly loves what he does, this is the tour for you. Five stars, no hesitation!
Show 5 reviews

Who is this tour for?

Accessibility
Suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group reservations.
Pets
Suitable for carrying pets.

What should you know?

Minimum of attendees
A minimum of 5 people is required for the tour.
Additional costs:
The tour does not require the payment of entrance fees or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you will not be able to attend the tour, please cancel your booking, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Only cash payment is accepted.
When do you want to go?
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Show more
See availability
Explore
Bookings
Messages