London Walks - Secrets of the Square Mile
Description
Week 1: Fire in the City. The focus this week is the Great Fire of London in 1666. We will walk the route of the fire, going to where the fire started, learn about the devastation it caused, how the fire was fought and what happened after the fire.
Meet at Tower Hill Station by the Tram snack-bar EC3N 4TH
Week 2: Gold in the City. This week we will walk in search of gold. The gold that is in plain sight, the gold that has made fortunes and where gold has been hidden.
Meet at Bank Junction, EC2R 8AH. If coming by tube get out at Bank station Exit 3.
Week 3: Smithfield the edge of the City. This part of the City has witnessed some of the most violent events seen in the City from executions to war deaths and damage. It has for centuries been dominated by two organisations, the Meat Market and St Bartholomew's Hospital. We will learn how both started and developed.
Meet by the Rotunda Gardens West Smithfield EC1A 9DY. Farringdon Tube
Week 4: Street Art in the City. The City is full of decorations and special features, but is it art? Come along and see what you think. Our carefully chosen route will display a range of features that you may just have walked past before!
Meet by Metro Bank 120 London Wall EC2Y 5ET. Moorgate station is the closest.
More information
Can I join late?
By agreement with the tutor.
Who is the course for?
This course is for anyone who has an interest in the history and geography of London and want to increase their knowledge. We welcome new students!
Do I need prior knowledge or experience?
No experience required. An interest in understanding how the City of London developed and continues to evolve is desirable.
How will I learn?
Walking and then talking about what we see.
How will my progress be assessed?
You will be assessed informally by your tutor, as part of normal classroom activities. You will be asked to reflect on our walks and consider the ways in which the City developed.
Is there an external qualification?
No, this is an non-accredited course
What can I do next?
You can progress to other themed walks at BAEC or elsewhere. There are a range of walking tours of London offered by the College.
What do I need to bring?
Suitable clothing and footwear, including rainproof clothing and/or sun protection as appropriate. Possible entrance fee to places of interest. Each walk lasts 2 hours, departing from an agreed meeting point and following a planned route that features the salient points of the session's theme. While the walks are not usually physically challenging, each route may include urban and/or rural roads and will take place in all weathers (except in extreme conditions, when it may be necessary to make alternative arrangements).
Are there any extra costs?
Cost of travel to and from the walk's start/finish point. Sometimes we will go inside some churches, and donations are always received with thanks.
Is there work between sessions?
To write thoughts and reflections on how the City of London has developed and evolved.
For further information, please contact:
Call the Kentwood Centre on 0208 659 7976 or Curriculum Development Manager Philip Bedford
Course Summary
Code: L05017
Starting: Thursday 25 September 2025
Location: Meet Out
Tutor: Michelle Greer
Cost: £50 (concessions £40)
By continuing you confirm that you are over 19 and have agreed to the the terms and conditions
Time and duration
Day: Thursday Morning
Start Time: 11:00
End Time: 13:00
Start Date: 25 September 2025
End Date: 16 October 2025
Duration: 4 sessions spanning 4 week(s)
Location
Meet Out
Meet Out
Care of Kentwood centre, Kings
London
SE20 7PR