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From Empire to Abolitionism: History of Slavery in London Tour

Discover the lesser known history of the British Empire and how it changed the world

Walking Tour
3 hrs
London
The Finer Details
London's Financial District is a showcase of impressive architecture and powerful institutions representing the finance and insurance industries. But what is the foundation of this wealth? How did it begin, and at what cost? 

The British Empire, fueled by equal parts mercantilism and missionary zeal, created a solid economic base for the development of what became the largest formal empire the world had ever known. However, it did so at the cost of hundreds of thousands of human lives.

Join a local historian for a deep dive into this lesser-known side of London history and meet key figures in the fight for abolition, like John Newton, composer of 'Amazing Grace', who preached against slavery right in the heart of the slave trade.  Learn about Olaudah Equiano, a writer, speaker, and founding member of the Sons of Africa. Peel back the layers of history to reveal the dark sides of the empire, and be inspired by the stories of the men and women who helped bring slavery to an end. As you walk past imposing skyscrapers and the site of former shipyards, you'll gain a deeper understanding of this transformative period in British history.

Choose this tour if…

  • You want to unpack the complex history of the abolitionist movement within the British Empire
  • You are a history buff and love digging into the how and why of a city’s defining eras.
  • You desire a deeper understanding of the British Empire.

Route Details

Begin at Guildhall, the site of the Zong massacre trial, the first legal case in Britain involving a slave ship. The trial and the inhumane reality that it revealed ignited momentum for the abolitionist movement. From here, we'll proceed to the Bank of England and Royal Exchange, where many of the key contracts for the slave trade were signed. Nearby is St. Mary Woolnoth, where John Newton, who wrote the words to Amazing Grace and had been a slave ship captain, was rector and led the campaign for abolition from the pulpit. Continuing along the streets of the city, we'll discuss the importance of the coffee houses as places where traders would conduct business, as well as religious halls where Abolitionist meetings were held. 

We'll continue our slavery walking tour along the former port of London. It was here that, from 1672 to 1698, thanks to the establishment of the Royal African Company, all slave ships leaving from England had to set sail. From here we’ll hop on the DLR  to West India Quay and finish the walk with a visit to the Slavery and Sugar gallery of the Docklands museum. This will provide us with a detailed insight into the management of plantations and the many layers of the campaign for the abolition of the slave trade and slavery in 1809 and 1833. 

We’ll come away with a greater understanding of the legacy of slavery in the UK through the continuing story of the Windrush Generation.

Logistics

General Information
  • There will be a break in the tour to stop and use bathroom facilities as well as opportunities to stop and rest along the way if needed. 
  • Strollers are allowed in the museum, but it might be easier to navigate crowded areas with a baby carrier.
  • Please communicate any mobility needs or concerns with our team at the time of booking. 
Tickets
  • You are responsible for tickets for the DLR, if you have a contactless card, you can pay using that or an Oyster card. Alternatively, your expert will facilitate buying tickets at the machine.
Headsets
  • Depending on your group size, we may be required by the venue to order headsets, in which case you’ll see a “Headset Fee” added to your order. 
Resources

Accessibility

We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.

The City of London is fully accessible. 

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?
Generally speaking, the walk begins near the Guildhall. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map. The walk typically ends at the Slavery and Sugar gallery of the Docklands museum.

What if it’s raining?
Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this a walking-intensive tour?
This walk covers about 1 mile overall. There are occasional opportunities to sit, use the bathroom, and get something to drink if needed.

The Docklands Museum looks quite far on the map, how do we get there? 
It is outside of the city center, indeed! You will take the light railway to get there. If you already have an Oyster Card for your London visit, that is great. If not, your guide will help you purchase a transport card during the tour. 
Book a Tour
Meet the Experts
Harry History Teacher Harry
Imogen Lawyer Imogen
Rob Historian Rob
Tim Historian Tim
Fred Historian Fred
Janice Historian Janice
Emanuela London Guide/Historian Emanuela

Expertly Led,

Personally Delivered

Meet our experts

“ I love leading Context tours simply because I know that I will be spending the day with inquisitive, thoughtful and interested clients. I know they will value my expertise, enjoy our conversation and cherish their experience. ”

Harry C.
Where You’ll Go

From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.

  • Guildhall
  • Museum of London Docklands
  • St Mary Woolnoth
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
  • English-speaking expert guide
    Tours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
  • Intentionally sized groups
    A smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
  • Tickets and entrance fees
    All entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
  • Headsets
    Headsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Excluded
  • Gratuities
    We encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
  • Food and drink
    Refreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
  • Transportation to and from the meeting point
    Guests organize pre- and post-tour transport themselves - this service can be added by request.
  • Hotel pickup or drop-off
    Unless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Map of From Empire to Abolitionism: History of Slavery in London Tour general meeting point area

Make the Most of Your Tour

Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.

Dos:
  • Wear comfortable footwear
  • Check the weather and dress appropriately
  • Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
  • Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
  • Bring firearms or weapons
  • Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
  • Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always contact us.

Don’t just take our word for it

14 Reviews

Tim was fantastic to discuss the context of the sites within the larger scope and even how they relate to modern times.

We spent a thoroughly enjoyable 3 hours with Tim. His fund of knowledge was both broad and deep. He was able to convey the history with equanimity and compassion. His personality was engaging and warm, and he frequently made the history more personal and relevant by referencing our own family histories.

Photo Shared by Leonie with their review

Tim was extremely knowledgeable and open to questions. One of the best tour guides I’ve ever had.

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