London Guided Walks » Samuel Pepys’s London Walk

Samuel Pepys’s London Walk

Samuel Pepys, a man renowned as one of Britain’s most skilled diarists, was more than just a scribe of daily life. This guided walk takes you through the rich tapestry of Pepys’ life, visiting the places where he lived and worked during one of the most vibrant eras in London’s history.

Discover the man behind the diary
Discover peaceful gardens and unknown stories
Qualified City of London guide

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Known for his vivid chronicling of 17th century London, Pepys bore witness to some of the city’s most dramatic events – the restoration of the monarchy, the Great Plague, the Great Fire of London, and the Dutch Wars. As we explore the locations where Pepys composed his diaries, we’ll also visit his resting place (subject to availability). A unique garden will also provide an intriguing perspective of Pepys’ life and times.

Our route will not only cover places that Pepys documented in his diaries, but will also highlight some of the more vibrant episodes from his life – tales of an attempted mugging, his period of imprisonment, a harrowing operation, encounters with a lion and monkey, public executions, and his often contentious interactions with women.

Despite his love for the finer things in life – scrumptious food, fine wines, and melodious music, Samuel Pepys was much more than a high-spirited city gentleman. This walking tour will reveal his lesser-known roles as a distinguished civil servant who spearheaded reforms in the Royal Navy, a savvy politician, a dedicated school governor, and a leading figure in several city and national institutions. Pepys’ life was nothing short of remarkable, and it’s incredible to think of all that he accomplished.

Join others on a public walking tour as we follow in Pepys’ footsteps, immersing ourselves in the hustle and bustle of 17th century London, narrated through the eyes of one of its most colourful characters.

Start: Tower Hill Tube Station
End: St. Dunstan in the East Church

Your Guide: Susan Baker

Samuel Pepys’s London Walk Reviews

Carol

Another great tour from London Guided Walks, this time through Pepys 17th century London. Susan took us into one of the most attractive and fascinating corners of the City and I now have a much better idea of his life and times. Well recommended.

Jason

Very enjoyable afternoon spent following around and listening to our guide Susan on the subject of 17th-century polymath and famous, sometimes infamous, diarist Samuel Pepys. Lots of interesting details and I learned a lot.

Pamela

Learnt some new facts about Samuel Pepys who was quite a colourful character.

Saskia

Lovely walk on a sunny day. Away from the hurly-burly of the Tower the streets were peaceful and there were a surprising number of places associated with Samuel Pepys to see. Susan filled us in with just the right amount of historical background.

Helena

Always impressed by the knowledge of the guides on these walks and Susan did not disappoint As this was a new addition I was wondering how it would be with a larger group given the inescapable noisy environment Not entirely step-free but manageable and finishing in the wonderful oasis that is St Dunstans

John

Highly informative and enjoyable trip. Surprisingly little walking. Enjoyable group to spend time with. A very pleasant atmosphere. Strongly recommended.

Anne

Samuel Pepy’s London Walk took us to a small area of London west of Tower Hill underground station where he had worked and lived mainly between 1660 and 1669.The buildings, apart from churches, no longer exist but the guide, Susan, was excellent at giving us a flavour of what the area must have been like as well as painting a fascinating picture of what Samuel Pepys the man was like at work, home and at play. The walk lasted about 90 minutes. The distance walked was probably less than a mile. It was a very cold day and we appreciated being able to spend some time inside St Olave’s church!

William J

Despite being a grey and cold December day – thoroughly enjoyed the interesting tour. Will go back to some of the places in nicer weather and it has inspired me to do more reading into Pepys. Thank you.

Robert

Very informative and interesting walk. Susan, our guide, was very knowledgeable and interesting and the whole experience was very enjoyable.