On a beautiful sunny day some 45 members were split into 2 groups to have a private tour of the Famous Mile of London which is, basically, the City of London. The guides were Simon and Alison who have Blue Badges for guiding around London.

We began at The Monument to the Great Fire in 1666, walked past Pudding Lane (where the fire began) and followed a route which took in the old Billingsgate Market site, Leadenhall Market, several Wren Churches including one destroyed by the Blitz but now a peaceful garden, The Royal Exchange, Bank of England, Mansion House and Guildhall. We learnt about pattens (devices attached to shoes to keep them off the filthy streets of bygone days). And we discovered little alleyways and that the City isn’t just modern skyscraper buildings.

The guides gave good commentary with some jovial humour in particular by Simon. Simon’s group finished at the Roman temple Mithraeum whereas Alison’s group ended at St Paul’s Cathedral. Some chose to visit St Paul’s afterwards.

Due to group size and slightly different finishing points. it was difficult to arrange for all to meet after the walks finished but many went on to different places and got to know other members.

The feedback was very positive and I will be arranging another guided tour to a different area of London, probably early September.

My thanks also to Pete Grieve who helped on the day with various aspects.

Christine Cunliffe, Events Organiser Woking U3A.

MORE PHOTOS