Open House Festival: The best guided walks in the Square Mile

The City of London is renowned for its financial prominence. This Open House Festival offers a variety of guided walks, shining a spotlight on the city's financial history and heritage.

On Tuesday, September 15th and Wednesday, September 16th, the Aldgate walking tour explores the historical significance of this bustling location, bridging the city's Roman origins to its medieval past.

The Barbican & City Gardens offer a unique architectural experience, nominated twice for Toast the City Awards. This tour delves into the history of the Barbican and takes visitors through gardens typically accessible only to residents.

St Stephen Walbrook, while not the most visually striking, holds a place among the most intriguing churches in the Square Mile, featuring twelve Corinthian columns and a unique altar by Sir Henry Moore. Visitors can explore this church on Tuesday, September 15th and Friday, September 18th.

Carpenters’ Hall, established in 1429, is a testament to the city's Livery Companies. The Open House drop-in session allows visitors to immerse themselves in its history.

The Secrets and Symbols of the City tour answers common and uncommon questions about the Square Mile, including its unique street layout devoid of roads.

Oscar Wilde's connection to the City is explored through a guided walk on Monday, September 14th and Friday, September 18th, shedding light on literary associations ranging from Shakespeare to Wilde.

The City at Night tour reveals the nocturnal side of London, uncovering shadowy corners and transforming a familiar location into a new experience.

Andaz London Liverpool Street, though now a five-star hotel, has a rich history dating back to England's first mental hospital. This tour explores its past and the presence of Masonic Temples within its walls.

The Romans in London walk, a Toast nominee, reveals the city's Roman history, from hidden bath houses to the ancient City walls. Visitors can explore these remnants on Saturday, September 12th and Sunday, September 13th.

Hidden City: Lost Rivers & Super Sewers offers a unique perspective on the hidden waterways beneath the city's skyscrapers. Drawing inspiration from various historical figures, this tour is unlike any other.

St Bartholomew's Hospital, another Toast nominee, welcomed the reopening of its stunning North Wing with a grand staircase adorned with a William Hogarth mural, leading to one of the finest grand halls in the city. This tour is available on Tuesday, September 15th, Monday, September 14th, and Sunday, September 20th.