Power and Scandals in the City of London (Private Tour)

Summary Description

To walk in the City is to be surrounded by money, past and present.

Highlights
  • Discover how the new and old combine in this area
  • See Leadenhall market
  • Immerse yourself in the scandals of the area
  • Discover the origins of the East India Trading Company
  • Hear the tale of the Lloyd’s Names scandal of the 1990’s
  • Description

    Sturdy guildhalls, ancient pubs, and elegant exchanges bear testament to London’s long wealth, while all around invisible trillions of pounds are traded between the gleaming towers of modern finance. For generations, millions have come to this great city of opportunity, awaiting their place upon the wheel of fortune. But for every honest trader, there have been those determined to make their success by fair means or foul - those who seek to push the line of legality, and perhaps drift over it. This tour is their story; the story of London’s most notorious and extraordinary financial frauds, a tale of wealth, avarice, and ruin.  * Hear the obscure tale of how Lloyd’s of London began as Lloyd’s Coffeehouse 
    * See Leadenhall market – the renowned haven for lunchtime drinking among insurance workers 
    * Immerse yourself in the scandals of fraudulent offshore banks, hoodwinking, and shady syndicates Discover the origins of the East India Trading Company and London’s port history– where once forests of ship masts stretched across the river. As you walk Leadenhall Street, hear the tale of the Lloyd’s Names scandal of the 1990’s and allegations – left unproven—of ‘recruit to dilute’ syndicate liability. Then learn about the South Sea Bubble, the collapse of which shook Britain to its core. Entering Change Alley,your guide will paint for you the portrait of the street as it stood 300 years ago - a crowded alley, filled with traders, rumour, and wild financial speculation as the South Sea frenzy reached its height. Walking the short distance to Cheapsideand the former site of the Mercer’s Hall, your guide will describe the frantic meeting of South Sea company creditors that took place here in 1720, before exploring the Bubble’s bitter denouement.

    Included / Excluded
    What's Included
    • Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places
    • A friendly, professional guide with first-hand knowledge of the area
    What's Not Included
    • Cost of hotel pick up/drop off. Your guide will accompany you in a taxi or by public transport
    • Food and drink, although your guide will be happy to recommend snacks along the way
    Start / End Locations

    Start Location: 14 Cornhill, Langbourn, London, GB

    Start Location Notes: Statue of James Henry Greathead

    Commentary

    Guide : English

    Important Information
    Know Before You Book
    • Please bring comfortable walking shoes
    • Should you require a specific pick up location, additional fees may apply and are payable locally
    • Kids under 4 are free
    Know Before You Go
    • Please ensure you arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes prior to the tour start time
    • Please bring waterproof clothing in case it rains
    Cancellation

    Cancellation Policy: standard

    Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours

    Cancellation Notes: Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

    Options

    Price for two adults and children

    RETAIL PRICE
    Adult (13-64 years) $150.00
    Child (0-3 years) $150.00
    Additional Information

    Not wheelchair accessible