Secrets of Spitalfields Private Tour

Wander through streets steeped in stories—from silk weavers and social reformers to street artists and spice stalls. Spitalfields is a patchwork of past and present waiting to be explored.

90 mins linear walk
Not step-free
Private walking tour

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Begin your exploration at one of the few remaining Jewish synagogues in the area, an awe-inspiring edifice dating back to 1766. Originally constructed as a chapel, it was later repurposed by Ashkenazi Jews in the 19th century, following a collective community effort to adapt it for their religious practices and customs. Though the building may not boast a large regular congregation today, it retains significant cultural heritage and is a Grade 2 listed structure.

Meander through one of East London’s most photogenic streets, where resplendent Georgian buildings stand as a legacy to the Huguenot merchant weavers of the 17th century. These individuals, who fled religious persecution, coined the term ‘refugee’ and forever altered the English language.

Further highlights include a foray down a street echoing with a myriad of cultural histories—from a music hall with a heart-rending story, to the remarkable endeavours of women’s rights activist Annie Besant, who was instrumental in aiding the match girl strikers and subsequently influencing the trade union movement.

Finally, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Brick Lane, a hotspot renowned for its scrumptious street food and vivid street art. Gain an understanding of the layered contributions of various immigrant communities that have collectively shaped this area into the vibrant hub it is today.

What to Expect on Your Private Tour

  • Uncover Untold Histories –  Explore the untold stories of Huguenot silk weavers, Jewish immigrants, and Bangladeshi communities who shaped Spitalfields.
  • Explore Historic Landmarks – Visit a Grade II-listed synagogue, stroll past Georgian townhouses, and stand in the footsteps of history at a centuries-old music hall.
  • Stories of Activism & Resistance – Learn how Annie Besant and the match girls’ strike influenced the British trade union movement.
  • A Journey Through Time – From 17th-century refugee settlements to modern-day street art, witness the ever-evolving identity of Spitalfields.
  • Brick Lane’s Vibrant Culture – Immerse yourself in the rich sights, sounds, and flavours of one of London’s most famous streets, renowned for street food, markets, and bold street art.
  •  Expert Storytelling – Led by a knowledgeable London guide, this walk brings history to life with engaging narratives and fascinating insights.

Tour Details

  • 🗺️ Meeting Point:Liverpool Street Station
  • 🏁 End: Spitalfields Market
  • ⏳ Duration: 90 minutes
  • 🎓 Led by a qualified London tour guide

This private tour offers a the chance to explore East London with a qualified London guide. This walk offers thoughtful insight into one of the capital’s most layered and historically important areas, helping you see it in a whole new light. Spitalfield’s riches are discoverable when you look very, very closely.

Secrets of Spitalfields Private Tour Reviews

Patricia

From the moment of being greeted by Daniel, through to his concluding remarks, every word that he said was informative and of interest, whether as part of his plan or in response to questions from his audience. The walk was well paced and truly included secrets that even I, a long term resident of London, had not encountered before. There could not have been a better way to learn about this fascinating area than to walk in the company of people equally interested and to be guided by someone so well-informed. A most enjoyable ninety minutes.

Ian

A really superb walk, led by Daniel, which truckers to several parts of Spitalfields an area I’d never visited before, and I learnt so much. One notable comment is that Daniel was a last-minute replacement to lead the walk yet he delivered it with such clarity and knowledge you would hardly have known he did this at the last minute. He was real fountain of knowledge. As always with these walks It is so good to see history right next to modern London. The walk took us from approximately the 1200s through to the history of the Jews, the Huguenots, Bangladeshis and finally through the Quakers, all of whom pretty much were fleeing persecution. Some of the buildings were quite amazing. I really enjoyed this walk as I do with all of London Guided Walks and I’m grateful as always to have had the opportunity.

Qualified London Tour Guides

Blue Badge Tour Guide
City of London Tour Guide Badge
City of Westminster Guide
Clerkenwell & Islington Guide
Lambeth Tour Guide Badge
Camden Tour Guides Association

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Your Guide: Hazel Baker
Your Guide: Daniel Hausherr
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