London

Historical tours in London by Threadneedle Hotels

Last updated 9th June 2017

Why go?

Exploring England’s capital city is a must with children, it has fabulous sites, a magnificent history, and whether you think it’s busy and overcrowded or not, get out of Oxford Street’s madness and you’ll soon find all the great hidden gems London has to offer.

Threadneedles, a luxury hotel located near the city’s financial district, is far enough away from the tourist traps of London, but still enjoys a rich history in its surroundings. Head here for delicious afternoon tea, stay in its luxury accommodation and explore the Square Mile with the hotels’ exclusive sightseeing packages.

Activities

Afternoon tea:

We came here to get a taste of the afternoon tea available at Threadneedles. The results? Delicious fingers sandwiches, scones with jam and so-thick-it-tastes-naughty cream made by the hotel’s pastry chef, champagne if it takes your fancy, and hot tea to take the thirst away. You’ll also be served just back from the hotel’s main lobby, which is not only grand, but also a great place to people watch. It is quiet in here but those with smaller children shouldn’t shy away, it’s magnificent architecture is bound to keep their interest for long enough for you to enjoy the bubbly!

For a little extra education for the children, the Afternoon Tea selections at Threadneedles are inspired by people steeped in British history, including Winston Churchill and Princess Diana.

Plus, if you have any eating allergies or requirements, Threadneedles are great at accommodating – we had a Gluten-free friend who had delicious Afternoon Tea!

Walking tours:

The best thing about the Threadneedles experience though, is the new walking tours designed for families wanting to soak up the city’s history on a number of different routes.

The History Route: Learn about the Romans at the original Roman walled settlement, see a buried amphitheatre and get an education about key London attractions as you see the impressive St Paul’s Cathedral, The Guildhall, Bank of England, Royal Exchange and the City’s famous guilds. 

The Food Route: Cross the Thames and head to the food haven of Borough Market and the new nearby food district of Bermondsey. Learn about one of the city’s oldest churches, Southwark Cathedral, as well as Hay’s Galleria.

The East End Route: The East End was once frowned upon for its poverty and slightly more drab aesthetics thanks to a history of ‘dirty work’, but in recent years has become ‘cool’ with those relocating to the city, and its promotion throughout the Olympic Games has transformed its reputation. This walk includes Spitalfields market and the surrounding Huguenot weaver’s houses, a hidden synagogue and the edge of Ripper Country. 

The River Route: The Thames brought the Romans global and domestic trade and was hugely important to that time for its connection to the rest of the world. Learn about Britain’s maritime power at The Tower of London, HMS Belfast, and a former dockyard.

The lowdown

Accommodation: Located in Bank (Northern Line, Waterloo & City Line, Central, Circle & District Line), this 5* boutique hotel is a great base away from the madness of the West End for a family break.

The city tends to be quieter during the weekends in London, and so feels a safer haven, too. The hotel is the previous head offices of the London, City & Midland Bank, and has kept its magnificent original features, including a beautiful glass dome on the ceiling that dates back to 1856, where you’ll be dining afternoon tea under.

Location: 5 Threadneedle Street, London, EC2R 8AY 

More info: hotelthreadneedles.co.uk

SEE OUR LONDON GUIDE TO GET MORE HELP EXPLORING THE CITY.