London: Witches & History Walking Tour with Character Guide

Summary

London’s witch stories come alive on this walking tour past Borough Market, Globe Theatre, Millennium Bridge and more

You’ll join a theatrical witch-guide in London, hearing real tales of accused witches as you stroll from Southwark Cathedral past Borough Market and Shakespeare’s Globe to St. Paul’s Cathedral. Expect laughter, chills, true history—and maybe even some Harry Potter filming locations along the way. You’ll leave seeing these famous sights with new eyes.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous just meeting our “witch” guide behind Southwark Cathedral—she was already in character, cackling softly and waving a twig. The Thames felt close and damp in the morning air, and our little group shuffled together like we were about to get up to something. She started right away with a story about Margery Jourdemayne (I’d never heard of her), and suddenly I was picturing old London streets full of suspicion and whispers. It’s weird how quickly you start noticing the way people look at each other when you’re primed for it.

We wandered through Borough Market—so many smells, even early: coffee, fried onions, something sweet I couldn’t place. Our guide pointed out the Golden Hinde ship and told us about Nicholas Culpepper (“bad boy herbalist,” she called him). I tried to say his name in my best old-timey accent; she laughed and said even Londoners get it wrong sometimes. Passing Clink Prison Museum made me shiver a bit—she described what it might’ve sounded like inside, all those years ago. It’s strange standing on cobbles where people once waited for their fate.

The walk took us over Millennium Bridge (yep, the one from Harry Potter), and I caught myself looking for Dementors in the sky. The view back toward St. Paul’s Cathedral is honestly something—I still think about that moment when the clouds broke just enough for sunlight to hit the dome. We finished near St. Paul’s, everyone a bit quieter than before. Our guide gave us a last little spell (I won’t spoil it) and sent us off to wander or grab lunch nearby. I kept thinking about those old stories all afternoon—how easy it is to forget who walked here before us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore London’s witch history and landmarks

• Meet Witch-Guide by Southwark Cathedral
• Pass Borough Market
• See the Golden Hinde ship
• Visit palace ruins on cobbles
• Walk down Clink Street past Old Prison
• Explore Shakespeare's Globe
• Cross Millennium Bridge
• End at St. Paul's Cathedral

Top questions

How long is the London witches & history walking tour?

The tour covers several key sites between Southwark Cathedral and St. Paul’s Cathedral at a relaxed walking pace; exact duration isn’t specified but expect around 2 hours.

Is this walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on the witches & history walking tour are wheelchair accessible.

Are there any entry fees included?

No, admissions are not included as you visit all locations from outside during the tour.

Where does the tour start?

The witches & history walking tour starts behind Southwark Cathedral on the banks of the Thames.

Does this tour include Harry Potter filming locations?

You may recognize some Harry Potter filming locations along Millennium Bridge during the walk.

Is lunch or food included on this walking tour?

No meals are included; however, you’ll pass by Borough Market where you can explore local food after the tour ends.

Can infants or small children join?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the walk.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed throughout the witches & history walking route.

What’s included

Your day includes an engaging character guide leading your group from Southwark Cathedral past iconic spots like Borough Market, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Millennium Bridge, and finishing at St. Paul’s Cathedral—all stories delivered outside these landmarks so there’s no need for entry tickets or extra fees along the way.