The Freemasons Tour of London

If you’re someone who loves uncovering the stories behind iconic cities, this Freemasons Tour of London offers a fascinating journey through lesser-known sites connected to knights, Crusaders, Templars, and Freemasons. With a private guide, you’ll explore landmarks that most visitors overlook, gaining insights into London’s secretive past and its mysterious societies. The tour combines historical intrigue with scenic views, all within about three hours — making it a perfect addition to a busy London itinerary.

What really makes this experience special is the level of personalization—a private tour means fewer crowds, more tailored attention, and the chance to ask all your burning questions. Plus, with the convenience of a complimentary pickup, you can skip the hassle of public transport and concentrate on the stories. However, keep in mind that it’s a fairly intense walk, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. This tour is ideal for history buffs, mystery lovers, or anyone curious about London’s secret societies and medieval past.

One potential consideration is that some attractions, like the Museum of the Order of St John and the Blackfriars site, are closed on certain days, so it’s worth double-checking the schedule before booking. This tour offers great value for those eager to uncover hidden corners of London’s past with expert guides.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a deep, authentic look at London’s lesser-known history, especially those interested in religious orders, military history, or secret societies. It’s a thoughtful, well-curated way to spend half a day exploring a side of London few get to see.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Comprehensive itinerary covering over 20 historic sites
• Convenient pickup from your accommodation
• Focus on religious, knightly, and Masonic history
• Walks through scenic areas often used in films and TV
• Focused on hidden gems and lesser-known landmarks

A Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

This 3-hour private tour takes you through a carefully curated list of London sites related to Knights, Crusaders, Templars, and Freemasons. The itinerary is packed with stops that range from well-preserved historic buildings to secretive ruins, offering a layered look into London’s medieval and secret society past. From the outset, the experience emphasizes depth and storytelling, making it both engaging and educational.

Convenient Pickup and Group Size

Starting at Farringdon Station, the tour begins with complimentary pickup from your hotel, which is a blessing in a city where public transport can be overwhelming. From there, the guide takes care of logistics, allowing you to focus solely on absorbing stories and views. The private nature of this tour means you won’t be part of a large crowd, and you’ll have the flexibility to ask questions or linger at sites that pique your interest.

Itinerary Highlights and What to Expect

The tour’s itinerary is designed to reveal London’s lesser-seen history. Here’s a detailed look at some of the key sites:

Clerk’s Well: It’s easy to pass by this unassuming well, yet it’s the origin of the district’s name. The guide shares how such old knights’ wells influenced the area’s identity—something most Londoners are unaware of. It’s a quick, 5-minute stop, but a real glimpse into medieval London’s infrastructure.

Marx Memorial Library and St John Priory Church: These sites highlight the city’s complex relationship with social movements and religious orders. The library still operates today, adding a living element to the tour, and the church’s garden, with medicinal plants and an ancient weapon, offers a peaceful yet intriguing stop.

St John’s Gate and the Museum of the Order of St John: This is a highlight. The gatehouse and museum showcase the Knights of St John’s military and charitable work. The museum, housing weapons and armor, is closed Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. This site offers a fantastic glimpse into medieval crusading orders, with stories of the hospital knights who cared for pilgrims.

The Charterhouse and Church of St. Bartholomew the Great: These are two of London’s oldest religious sites, both linked to Crusader history. The Charterhouse also reveals a recent archaeological find—a skeleton from the Black Death—adding a visceral element to the visit.

William Wallace Memorial and Greyfriars Garden: These sites connect London to broader British history. The William Wallace spot marks the location of the Braveheart hero’s death, while the ruins of Greyfriars provide a hauntingly beautiful garden scene shadowed by St. Paul’s.

Temple Church and Inner Temple: Built by the Templars and made famous by “The DaVinci Code,” these churches and legal institutions are peaceful retreats amid the busy city. The guide explains the Templar’s original purpose and their ties to the Holy Land.

Historic Streets and Hidden Corners: Walking along Fleet Street, passing the Old Curiosity Shop, and visiting the Seven Stars pub (an early Freemason meeting spot) makes the experience tangible. These are places that evoke the city’s literary and secret society past.

Freemasons’ Hall: The tour culminates at the Freemasons’ Hall, the home of the United Grand Lodge of England. Here, you’ll see the Masonic meeting rooms and learn about their long history in London. The museum is closed on Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

The Value of This Tour

While £200+ per person might seem steep, the value lies in expert storytelling, exclusive access, and the ability to see many sites in just a few hours—all without the hassle of navigating London’s busy streets alone. The small group size and private guide ensure that you’re not just another face in the crowd, but an engaged participant.

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. “Kevin was a great guide, super knowledgeable,” one reviewer noted, emphasizing how the guide’s storytelling made the history come alive. Another appreciated the tour’s focus on hidden London—sites they would never have found on their own or seen with a larger group.

The physical aspect is moderate; the tour involves some walking and standing, but it’s broken up with short stops at each site. The timing is efficient—covering a lot without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts, especially those intrigued by medieval knights, religious orders, or secret societies. It appeals to travelers who enjoy walking tours with a focus on lesser-known facts and sites rather than big-ticket tourist attractions. It’s perfect for those who appreciate detailed stories, expert guides, and a personalized touch.

If you’re interested in the symbolic and secretive sides of London’s past, this tour will deepen your understanding of the city’s layered history. It’s also good for those who want a small-group, intimate experience that combines walking, storytelling, and scenic views.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path look at London’s history, this private tour offers more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a journey through centuries of secret societies, religious orders, and historic sites that have helped shape the city. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge bring each stop to life, making it a memorable experience.

While it might not be the best option for those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed pace, for anyone eager to uncover London’s hidden stories with an expert by your side, this tour provides a rich, engaging day.

Overall, it’s a fantastic value for those interested in medieval and secret society history, looking for personalized attention, and eager to explore parts of London most travelers never see.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, covering numerous sites in a manageable walking pace.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup from your accommodation, making it easy to start hassle-free.

What’s the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

Are tickets included for the attractions?
Most sites are free to view from the outside or just for walking through, but some like the Museum of the Order of St John require an admission ticket, which is included in the tour fee.

Are there any attractions that are closed on certain days?
Yes, the Museum of the Order of St John is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; the same applies to the Blackfriars site and Charterhouse on Mondays, so check your booking date.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking and some historical detail, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness and an interest in history.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking and standing at each site, but the pace is steady and broken up with stops.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can ask your guide to spend more time at sites that interest you most.

What is the price?
The tour costs around $246.72 per person, offering access to many sites and a private guide for a rich experience.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you’re after a deep, authentic look at London’s secret societies and medieval sites**, this tour is a treasure trove. With knowledgeable guides and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a memorable way to see London’s hidden layers.