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April 02, 2026
Exploring London on foot is one of the best ways to experience its rich history — and Tower Hill is one of the finest places to start. Sitting beside the River Thames, in the the City of London, Tower Hill puts centuries of history within easy reach. Roman walls, royal fortresses, Victorian markets, ancient churches, and hidden stories around every corner.
This guide covers the best walking routes and landmarks you can explore on foot from Tower Hill, whether you're planning a couple of hours or a full day out.
What Makes Tower Hill Such a Good Base for Walking?
Tower Hill sits in the oldest part of London, the area the Romans originally settled as Londinium. The streets here are lined with centuries of architecture, and most of the major landmarks are within fifteen minutes on foot. You don't need a car, a bus, or even a plan — just comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity.
You can join a guided tour with an expert local guide, or follow a self-guided route at your own pace. Either way, the area rewards exploration.
The Top Landmarks to Explore on Foot from Tower Hill
1. The Tower of London
The Tower of London is where most walks naturally begin, and with good reason. One of the most visited historic sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has served as a royal palace, a prison, a place of execution, and the home of the Crown Jewels. The Yeoman Warders — the famous Beefeaters — lead tours that bring its extraordinary history to life. Allow at least two hours if you're going inside.
2. Tower Bridge
A nine-minute walk from Tower Hill, Tower Bridge is one of London's most recognisable landmarks and genuinely worth crossing on foot. And did you know? You can go inside. The high-level walkways offer spectacular views along the Thames in both directions, and the glass floor panels (if you dare) look straight down to the river below. The Victorian engine rooms inside tell the story of how the bridge was built and how it still works today.
3. St Katharine Docks and Potters Fields Park
Just a short stroll east of Tower Bridge, St Katharine Docks is a beautifully restored historic marina, now home to independent cafés, restaurants, and boutiques alongside a working marina. It's a lovely spot for a mid-walk break. Continue along the riverbank to Potters Fields Park for green space, riverside views, and one of the best free vantage points of Tower Bridge you'll find.
4. The Roman Wall
Right outside Tower Suites by Blue Orchid Hospitality, you'll find one of the most significant and well-preserved sections of the Roman wall that once encircled the entire city of Londinium. Built around the second century, the wall stretched for nearly three miles around what is now the City of London. It's easy to walk past without noticing — but once you know what you're looking at, it's remarkable.
5. All Hallows-by-the-Tower
The oldest church in the City of London, All Hallows has survived the Great Fire of 1666, the Blitz, and more than two thousand years of London history. Inside you'll find medieval fonts, brass rubbings, ornate statuary, and in the crypt museum, an excavated section of Roman pavement that takes you back to the city's earliest days. Samuel Pepys climbed the tower to watch the Great Fire spreading across London. It's a quiet, remarkable place that most visitors walk straight past.
6. The Monument to the Great Fire of London
Built between 1671 and 1677 and designed by Christopher Wren (who also designed St Paul’s Cathedral) and Robert Hooke, the Monument stands exactly 202 feet tall — the same distance as from its base to the spot in Pudding Lane where the Great Fire broke out in 1666. Before you leave the area, duck into St Magnus the Martyr Church nearby, which holds a replica of the original London Bridge, early fire-fighting equipment used during the blaze, and the distinction of being one of the first buildings consumed by the fire itself.
7. Leadenhall Market
A fifteen-minute walk northwest from Tower Suites or Tower Residences, takes you to one of London's most beautiful Victorian covered markets. Built in 1881 on the site of the Roman forum, Leadenhall Market is all ornate painted ironwork, cobblestones, and atmospheric archways. According to local legend, a goose that escaped from a poultry stall once led a merry chase through the market, and it now has a bar named after it. More recently it has found fame as a filming location — it stood in as Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films and inspired the Chocolate Factory in the 2023 Wonka film. Today it's home to restaurants, wine bars, monthly craft markets and independent shops.
8. London's Roman Amphitheatre
Hidden beneath Guildhall Yard in the heart of the City, London's Roman Amphitheatre was constructed around 70 CE and remained in use for over two centuries, capable of holding approximately 10,500 spectators. It is London's oldest sporting venue by a considerable distance. The remains are preserved beneath Guildhall Art Gallery, where you can walk through the original stone entrance tunnel. Entry is free.
9. Wilton's Music Hall
A short walk north from St Katharine Docks, technically just across the border into Shadwell, Wilton's is the oldest surviving grand music hall in the world. Built in 1859, it still has its original ornate balconies, cast-iron pillars, and an atmosphere that is impossible to manufacture. It continues to operate as an arts venue today, with a varied programme of theatre, music, and events. Worth a look inside even if you're not catching a show.
Guided Walking Tours
If you'd prefer an expert to lead the way, the City of London Guides run an excellent range of tours covering everything from Roman remains and the churches of Christopher Wren to the darker history of crime and intrigue in the Square Mile. Routes include the City Highlights Tour, walks tracing the footsteps of Shakespeare and Dickens, and the excellent Dark Side of the City for those with a taste for the macabre. You can find the full programme of City of London walking trails at thecityofldn.com.
How Long Does a Walking Tour from Tower Hill Take?
Most routes covering the highlights above can be done comfortably in two to three hours. A full day allows you to explore further afield, take your time inside the major attractions, and stop properly for food and coffee along the way. The Tower of London alone warrants two hours if you're going inside.
Most landmarks are within a ten to fifteen minute walk of Tower Hill Tube station (where Tower Suites and Tower Residences are located), so it's easy to dip in and out as energy allows.
Planning Your Visit
Wear comfortable shoes — London's historic streets are uneven in places. Most of the outdoor landmarks and walking routes are free, though the Tower of London and Tower Bridge charge for entry. The Roman Wall, All Hallows crypt museum, Guildhall Art Gallery and Leadenhall Market are all free.
If you're looking for somewhere to base yourself for your visit, Tower Suites by Blue Orchid sits right at the heart of this route — you can be at the Roman Wall or the Tower of London within minutes of leaving the front door. Blue Orchid also offers a Royal Time at the Tower package that includes overnight accommodation, Tower of London tickets, and 20% off dinner at Cento Alla Torre with views over the Tower Gardens. A good way to make the most of a day like this.
Book direct with Blue Orchid Hospitality and receive 10% off London theatre tickets and attractions.
FAQs
What historic landmarks can I walk to from Tower Hill?
The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St Katharine Docks, the Roman Wall, All Hallows-by-the-Tower, the Monument, Leadenhall Market, and London's Roman Amphitheatre are all within easy walking distance.
Are these walking routes suitable for families?
Yes. Many of the landmarks, particularly the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Roman Amphitheatre at Guildhall, offer interactive experiences that work well for children. The routes are mostly flat and manageable for younger visitors. Discover Blue Orchid’s Guide to Family Friendly Attractions and Hotels Near Tower Hill.
How long do walking tours from Tower Hill usually take?
Two to three hours covers the main highlights comfortably. A full day allows you to go deeper into the major attractions and explore further into the City.
What should I do after a walking tour?
St Katharine Docks is a natural end point for a well-earned coffee or lunch. Potters Fields Park is ideal if you want to sit by the river. For dinner, Cento Alla Torre at Tower Suites offers views over the Tower Gardens and Tower of London.
Is Tower Hill easy to explore on foot?
Very. Almost all of the landmarks above are within a fifteen-minute walk of Tower Hill Tube station. The area is flat, well-signposted, and one of the most walkable parts of London.