London Walks - Settlers in the City
Description
Discover the diverse stories of the City of London through four themed walking tours. Journey through Temple's historic lanes, uncover the legacy of the Huguenots, celebrate the impact of women in the City, and explore how residential life has evolved amid the City's iconic architecture.
Week One: The Temple in the City
Starting at Temple tube station, we will walk through the diverse alleys, lanes, gardens, and streets of the area. Our wander will take us past the Royal Courts of Justice, St Clement Danes Church, through gardens, and feature a great view of the Thames Embankment too.
Meeting point: Outside Temple Tube station. WC2R 2PH
Week Two: The Huguenots in the City
The City has become home for many nationalities, starting with the Huguenots. This walk will look at how they made London their home and how other nationalities followed them.
Meeting point: Outside McDonald's at Liverpool Street Station. Unit 25 The Concourse. EC2M 7PY
Week Three: Women in the City
We will consider the role of women in the City, who have contributed to every aspect of life and business. We will explore the lives of some famous and some not so famous women, as well as women from history and those alive today.
Meeting point: By Temple Bar, a stone archway facing St Paul's Cathedral in Paternoster Square. EC4M 7DX
Week Four: Where to Live in the City
For centuries many have called the City home. Nowadays, only about ten thousand people live in the City. During this walk, we will consider the architecture of the residential areas of the City and the amenities they have.
Meeting point: Farringdon Tube station. Opposite the entrance to the station. Exit for Smithfield, Cowcross Street. EC1M 6BY
More information
You will learn:
An appreciation of the role women have played in the City through the centuries.
An introduction into the Temple area of the City.
An understanding that the City planned living accommodation within the square mile, we will look at some of the housing options.
We will consider how the City welcomed the Huguenots and other groups of immigrants.
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: L05018
Starting: Thursday 23 April 2026
Location: Meet Out
Tutor: Michelle Greer
Cost: TBA
Time and duration
Day: Thursday Morning
Start Time: 11:00
End Time: 13:00
Start Date: 23 April 2026
End Date: 14 May 2026
Duration: 4 sessions spanning 4 week(s)
Location
Meet Out
Meet Out
Care of Kentwood centre, Kings
London
SE20 7PR