Jewish London Tour

Walking Tour

3 hrs

London

With its expansive diaspora, most cities around the world—including London—have felt the influence of Jewish culture. Our Jewish London Tour traces the history of Jews in Britain's capital from the Middle Ages to the present. It visits an array of important historical sites, including Bevis Marks, the Sandy Row Synagogue, and the Kinder Transport Memorial. Along the way, it paints a vivid, informative portrait of London's Jewish population through history.

Tour Description

Jewish history in London began in 1066 when William the Conqueror encouraged Jewish merchants and artisans from northern France to move to England. From that time (notwithstanding Edward the First's mass expulsion in 1290), London has been home to a very diverse and active Jewish community, one that established itself primarily in the area east of Tower Hill. Our Jewish London tour traces the history of these different communities, some of which continued to live in London after the expulsion, but the majority of whom entered England only during the seventeenth century under the decree of Oliver Cromwell.

From Jewry Street, where the first Jewish community of London made their home 800 years ago, to Bevis Marks, the first purpose-built Sephardi Synagogue opened in 1701, we will delve into the stories of the Jewish families that lived, struggled, and prospered in this area of London. Continuing east, we will come across Gravel Lane and the site of the famous Petticoat Lane Market. It was here that hundreds of Ashkenazi Jews worked and settled in the eighteenth century. We will discuss the importance of the rag trade (selling second-hand clothes) and the role of the Jewish Welfare Board, which was established in 1859.

After a quick visit to Sandy’s Row Synagogue, we will finish our walk at the Kinder Transport Memorial, located at Liverpool Street Station. In 1938, the British Government gave permission for 10,000 Jewish refugee children to enter the country after escaping from Nazi Germany. The children were saved but never saw their parents again. As Liverpool Street Station was the site of their arrival, this fitting monument was placed to preserve their memory.

Take Aways

Our Jewish London walking tour weaves a tale of the history of the Jewish community in London, giving visitors a distinct sense of its rich culture and history. Spanning a wide period, our guide, an expert in Jewish history, will provide you with a deeper sense of how these communities developed from their initial inception in 1066 and subsequent flourishing in the seventeenth century through their trials during WWII and finally to their triumphs in modern London.

FAQ

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

We will sometimes go inside Sandy’s Row Synagogue when possible, but Bevis Marks is currently closed for renovations throughout the rest of the year.

Will you pre-purchase tickets?

Buying tickets in advance is impossible, but our guide will facilitate the purchase of tickets, so you will not wait in line.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your guide will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family-friendly guides who can appeal to children's learning styles. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible guide.

Is this a walking-intensive tour?

The walk covers approximately 2 miles, but we go at a gentle pace. If you have any special requirements, please let us know at the time of booking.

Book a Tour

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

Bevis Marks
Liverpool Street Station
Sandy's Row Synagogue

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.

Map of Jewish London Tour general meeting point area

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.

81 Reviews

Our guide was wonderful.He was very knowledgeable and walked us all around what used to be the old jewish quarter.But the reality is that there is literally nothing to see.Two plaques on the wall and a bagel shop.The guide was interesting knowledgeable.He tried very hard, but there just wasn't enough for a three hour tour

Photo Shared by Michele with their review

Michele Nov 24, 2025

Ruth was a fabulous guide. Her knowledge of the history of England and the Jews in the country was exceptional. She added stories, recommendations for books and films to further our knowledge. Her warm, friendly demeanor added to the lovely experience we had with her.

Kenneth Oct 17, 2025

We had such a lovely day today touring with Oliver! He was incredibly knowledgeable, considerate and just enjoyable to spend a few hours with. We chose the Jewish Walking Tour in part because my grandfather was born in London in 1896. It was incredible to imagine walking the same streets that grandpa likely walked. Oliver was able to add many vivid details about life in London at the turn of the century! We ended our tour with lunch in a Jewish Deli after stopping at a bagel store! I would highly recommend his tours!

Suzan Sep 17, 2025

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