The elaborate peal of St Paul’s signalled the start of our historical tour of London’s Square Mile. Of course London itself covers many square miles but we were only interested in the one that houses the City of London which, at one point in time, was surrounded by the old Roman city walls.Ken began our magical mystery tour inside St Paul’s itself (once we had fought our past a very dedicated wedding photographer!).
It was like stepping back in time as we left the bustling city behind us. The soft lighting created an intimate atmosphere as we marvelled at the mosaics and intricate stone carvings as delicate choral music filled the Cathedral. But soon we were outside again to begin our three hour tour. Ken led us all like the Pied Piper as we hung on his every word weaving our way through the streets of London.
Our next stop was the Merryll Lynch building under the careful eye of a very large security guard. As we left the guard behind us Ken led us to a small green area called Postman’s Park (just off King Edward Street). A sheltered area within the park houses a wall dotted with hand-lettered tiles commemorating ordinary people who lost their loves trying to save others; a wonderful little public memorial celebrating the lives of people who would otherwise be forgotten. Our first lesson was on how to spot a Rogers or a Foster building.
By the time we reached The Barbican and the old Roman wall that nestles within its shadow, we had become quite adept at identifying the architects of the buildings that we passed. Then it was time for a refreshment stop and some deliciously chilled champagne enjoyed in the shadow of Shakespeare.
Through more alley ways and back streets, we emerged by the Bank of England where Sir John Soane, forever immortalised in stone, watched us as we continued on our journey towards Leadenhall market, passed the ‘erotic gherkin’, the Lloyds building and then on to Fenchurch street station. Spotted in the surrounding stone and glass was the neo-gothic Minster Court Offices looking more like something from Gotham City – although there was no sign of Batman! As we made our way along side Trinity House, the stunning view of an illuminated Tower of London signalled that our time travelling architectural journey would soon be coming to an end.
As we crossed Tower Bridge our destination, Butler’s Wharf, shone like an oasis with its lure of a well deserved meal. What an experience. This was a truly unforgettable look at some of London’s finest architecture led by a true expert in his field.
Sally Ormond
The SaVVy Club’s members enjoy a unique calendar of bespoke social events organised just for them. They can enjoy the company of fascinating people and relax in the knowledge that everything is taken care of.
London Social Events Blog -The SaVVy Club 