A Guide to Open House Festival 2025 in the City of London

This year, as part of Open House Festival 2025, The City of London has over 65 free things to see and do between 13 to 21 September including exploring a broad range of major historic spaces, domestic spaces, livery halls, modern buildings, as well as fascinating expert tours and talks.

Note: Some of these activities require advanced booking. Please check the Open House Festival 2025 website for all availability and information on how to visit.

Here are some ideas of what to explore during the festival.

Saturday 13 September

Please check the Open House Festival 2025 website before you visit any venues or tours for opening times and accessibility information. Some of these tours and venues require advance booking. All booking must be done through the Open House Festival website.

Temple Bar.

Explore the City’s Livery Halls

Founders’ Hall: Founders' Hall boasts a unique blend of neo-Vernacular, Arts and Crafts, and Post-Modern styles. Its exterior features distinctive gabled bays, terracotta panels, and metal grilles, while the interior showcases a ceremonial staircase, ornate parlour, and a livery hall illuminated by impressive œil de bœuf windows, creating an exceptional fusion of architectural elements.
Temple Bar: The last surviving gateway to the City of London, Temple Bar is 350 year olds and was also designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Temple Bar is rarely open to the general public and is now the Livery Hall of The Company of Architects.

Open Days

Barts Pathology Museum: Barts Pathology Museum, based at St Bartholomew's Hospital, houses around 5,000 medical specimens on display over 3 mezzanine levels. This Grade II Listed building is in use by students of the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at QMUL and as such is very infrequently open to the public. Specimens include the skull of John Bellingham, examples of unusual diseases, and early surgical intervention.
St Michael's Cornhill: A church building has occupied this site for at least a thousand years. Join them for mini organ recitals and guided tour of the building. Every hour on the hour from 11am to 3pm there will be a ten-minute guided tour followed by a ten-minute organ recital.
Leadenhall Market: Iconic Victorian covered market, with roots in Roman Londinium. Today, more than 40 renowned retail brands and outstanding food and drink venues are set within the stunning market place. On Saturday 13 September drop in for a Candle painting craft Workshop in pop up craft market from 12 to 3pm.
Marx Memorial Library & Workers' School: Grade II listed, built as a Welsh Charity School in 1738. A library with a focus on Marxism and Socialism since 1933. Lenin worked here 1902-03 and his office is preserved. Fresco by Jack Hastings in 1st floor. Late 15C tunnels. They will also welcome visitors to drop in tours of their historic site.
King's College London, The Maughan Library: London's first fireproof building, built to house records of the Court of Chancery. Now renovated to house a fine university library.

Guided tours

Instituto Cervantes London: Instituto Cervantes is a public institution under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of Spain, created by the Spanish Government in 1991 to promote the teaching, study and use of Spanish globally and the understanding of Hispanic cultures abroad. Exhibition of Rare Historic Books, Free Spanish and Basque lessons, Accordion Concert by Sofía Ros, Winner of BBC Radio Sct. Advance booking required.
St Margaret Pattens Guild Church: For at least 900 years a church dedicated to St Margaret of Antioch has stood on this site. At least three versions of the church were built; the previous one was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666. Wren designed the present church which was built between 1684 and 1687. They have a 45minute tour hourly of the Church. The guided tour will take participants around the church, into the vestries and into the Tower and onto the roof, with a running commentary. Advance booking required.
Guildhall Art Gallery and London’s Roman Amphitheatre: Join a combined tour of Guildhall Art Gallery and London's Roman Amphitheatre and discover the Gallery’s wide-ranging collection of 250 works of art and the 2000-year-old remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre.
St Michael's Cornhill: A church building has occupied this site for at least a thousand years. Join them for mini organ recitals and guided tour of the building. Every hour on the hour from 11am to 3pm there will be a ten-minute guided tour followed by a ten-minute organ recital.
Billingsgate Roman House and Baths: Discover some of London's best-preserved Roman remains. Advance booking required.
St Mary Aldermary: The church was first mentioned c1080 and is the oldest of the City churches dedicated to St Mary. It became a Guild Church by virtue of the City of London (Guild Churches) Act, 1952. It is the only Wren church built in the Late Gothic style after the Great Fire of London, 1666, thanks to a bequest. Join them for a guided tour. Advance booking required.
St Paul's Cathedral - Triforium Tour: Guided tours of the Triforium space to see: items from the cathedral collections including Christopher Wren’s magnificent ‘Great Model’ made in 1673; the recently conserved Library; the Geometrical Staircase and the stunning view from the West Gallery. Advance booking required.
Mansion House: Guided tours of the official residence of the Lord Mayor of the City of London, retaining its 18C character, with superb plasterwork and wood carving. Advance booking required.

Walking Tours

Temple to Bank tour with Jack Chesher: Join bestselling author, guide and Open City Golden Key Academy alumnus, Jack Chesher, for an intimate walking tour exploring Aldwych to Bank.
Romans in London walk: Absorb the fascinating history of ancient Londinium, visiting sites where the Romans lived, worked, and played.
Empire City walking tour: Want to understand the British Empire? Start with a walk around the City of London. We meet by the River Thames and will follow the money and the architecture to uncover where it all began. This is where the companies that started the empire were based, with banking and insurance giants that still exist today. There aren’t any plaques to guide the way, but the Square Mile tells its own story.

Talks

The London Centre: Home of NLA, London’s built environment community, and located in the West Wing of the Guildhall complex, the Centre highlights scale architectural models of London: the New London Model and the City Model, in additional to a rotating exhibition highlighting key NLA projects. Join them for a free lunchtime talk at The London Centre to learn about London’s historical and physical development.
Fleet Street Heritage Wall and Sundial: The Fleet Street Heritage Wall comprises 86 A3 information panels about the people, places, ideas and newspapers which made the name of Fleet Street famous throughout the world. Each Saturday and Sunday from 10 until 4, Piers Nicholson, who created the Heritage Sundial above the Wall, will speak on the project and its innovative features which will make it widely accessible to all comers.

Family Activities

City of London adventure family-friendly walking tour: The City of London is a tiny area, but it is hiding lots of amazing places with surprising stories, unusual rights and roles, and ancient traditions. This family-friendly walking tour will show you what the City is hiding but you will have to work for it!
Dr Johnson’s House: Fine example of an early 5-floor Queen Anne town house with original panelling, open staircase and unique 'swinging panels' on the open-plan first floor. Johnson compiled his famous 'Dictionary of the English Language' (1755) here. On Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September hear about the architectural history of the house, dress up in 18th century costumes and try your hand at writing with a quill and ink!
Guildhall Art Gallery: A fun day of creativity for all the family inspired by architecture - will include making activities and crafts.

Advice and information about your visit to The City

City Information Centre: London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. Drop in to ask for advice and information about your visit to the City.

Where to eat and drink during Open House Festival

Check out our list of places to eat and drink during Open House Festival 2025.

Sunday 14 September

Dr Johnsons House..

Explore the City’s Livery Halls

Temple Bar: The last surviving gateway to the City of London, Temple Bar is 350 year olds and was also designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Temple Bar is rarely open to the general public and is now the Livery Hall of The Company of Architects.

Open Days

The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple: Construction of Middle Temple Hall began in 1562 under the auspices of Edmund Plowden, Treasurer of the Inn and a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, and was completed by 1574. With an impressive double hammerbeam roof, open hearth and a high table said to be the gift of the Queen herself, it was a Hall fit for a confident, flourishing and prestigious Inn of Court. Queen Elizabeth I is known to have visited in 1578, and at the Candlemas Feast in 1602 the first known performance of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night took place, recorded in the diary of John Manningham, a student at the time. Middle Temple Hall, Bench Apartments, and Middle Temple Library will be open to the public. Last entry is at 15.45.
The Temple Church: Medieval architecture meets Wren's refurbishments in this inspiring building, the Mother Church of the Common Law. The Magna Carta exhibit: has William Marshal and King John where they would have debated and agreed clauses of Magna Carta.
St Bride's Church: Visit what has been called the ‘Journalist's’ Church, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
Inner Temple Gardens: Established by the Knights Templar in 1195, The Inner Temple has had a Gardener since 1307. Surviving The Great Fire of London, and the Blitz, the Gardens remain a secret and tranquil oasis.
King's College London, The Maughan Library: London's first fireproof building, built to house records of the Court of Chancery. Now renovated to house a fine university library.

Guided Tours

Guildhall Art Gallery and London’s Roman Amphitheatre: Join a combined tour of Guildhall Art Gallery and London's Roman Amphitheatre and discover the Gallery’s wide-ranging collection of 250 works of art and the 2000-year-old remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre.
Mansion House: Guided tours of the official residence of the Lord Mayor of the City of London, retaining its 18C character, with superb plasterwork and wood carving. Advance booking required.

Walking Tours

Internet infrastructure of London walking tour: This tour will walk you through the ubiquitous but often invisible infrastructure that enables millions of Londoners to stay connected, guided by a research fellow and artist from the Internet Society. Walkers will learn how architecture originally made for transport and communication, now enables internet connectivity. They will learn how to untangle the invisible signs of internet connectivity across the city, often disguised under manholes, up lamp posts, and behind inconspicuous buildings.
Film Locations of the City: A walk around places in the City you might recognise (or not) from the silver screen. Visit the impressive sites used in major films, including Harry Potter, Mission Impossible, James Bond, and many more.
Romans in London walk: Absorb the fascinating history of ancient Londinium, visiting sites where the Romans lived, worked, and played.

Family Activities

Dr Johnson’s House: Fine example of an early 5-floor Queen Anne town house with original panelling, open staircase and unique 'swinging panels' on the open-plan first floor. Johnson compiled his famous 'Dictionary of the English Language' (1755) here. On Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September hear about the architectural history of the house, dress up in 18th century costumes and try your hand at writing with a quill and ink!

Advice and information about your visit to The City

City Information Centre: London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. Drop in to ask for advice and information about your visit to the City.

Where to eat and drink during Open House Festival

Check out our list of places to eat and drink during Open House Festival 2025.

Monday 15 September

The red brick exterior of Andaz Liverpool Street.

Andaz London Liverpool Street.

Open Days

St Bride's Church: Visit what has been called the ‘Journalist's’ Church, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
St Mary-le-Bow: Visit the home of the famous Bow Bells, with a rich history dating back to 1080.
St Ethelburga's Centre for Reconciliation and Peace: Small late 14C church largely destroyed by a bomb in 1993. Restored as a centre for reconciliation and peace using Medieval building techniques and original materials. Unique Bedouin tent in peace garden. Open from 10am to 5:30pm, except for 11am to 12:30pm.

Walking tours

The City at night: Working, sleeping, playing – the City of London is home to all sorts of activities after dark. This walking tour will explore buildings and spaces, well known and lesser-known, in darkness, and will tell the history of night-time in London. You will visit places where London works, sleeps and plays at night, and over the course of two hours will even see how night-time activity shifts.
Empire City walking tour: Want to understand the British Empire? Start with a walk around the City of London. We meet by the River Thames and will follow the money and the architecture to uncover where it all began. This is where the companies that started the empire were based, with banking and insurance giants that still exist today. There aren’t any plaques to guide the way, but the Square Mile tells its own story.

Guided tours

Andaz London Liverpool Street: Andaz London Liverpool Street, a concept by Hyatt, blends rich history dating back to the 1200s with modern decor and the vibrant energy of its London neighbourhood. Step inside and join them for an open house tour led by their dedicated team. Advance booking required.

Advice and information about your visit to The City

City Information Centre: London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. Drop in to ask for advice and information about your visit to the City.

Where to eat and drink during Open House Festival

Check out our list of places to eat and drink during Open House Festival 2025.

Tuesday 16 September

Please check the Open House Festival 2025 website before you visit any venues or tours for opening times. Some of these tours and venues require advance booking. All booking must be done through the Open House Festival website.

Exterior view of the City Information Centre by St. Paul's Cathedral, featuring a modern angular design with glass walls under a large, sloping metal roof. A red bus passes by on the adjacent street, and bare trees and a wooden bench are visible in the foreground.

The City Information Centre located by St Paul's Cathedral.

Open Days

St Bride's Church: Visit what has been called the ‘Journalist's’ Church, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
St Mary-le-Bow: Visit the home of the famous Bow Bells, with a rich history dating back to 1080.

Walking Tours

Pubs and Taverns of the City: A walking tour exploring the fascinating architectural and social history of the City of London's most iconic public houses. Learn about the importance of pubs and taverns to Londoners through time, as rest stops for travellers, sites of clandestine meetings, and escapes from the everyday troubles of life.

Guided Tours

Andaz London Liverpool Street: Andaz London Liverpool Street, a concept by Hyatt, blends rich history dating back to the 1200s with modern decor and the vibrant energy of its London neighbourhood. Step inside and join them for an open house tour led by their dedicated team. Advance booking required.

Advice and information about your visit to The City

City Information Centre: London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. Drop in to ask for advice and information about your visit to the City.

Where to eat and drink during Open House Festival

Check out our list of places to eat and drink during Open House Festival 2025.

Wednesday 17 September

Please check the Open House Festival 2024 website before you visit any venues or tours for opening times and accessibility information. Some of these tours and venues require advance booking. All booking must be done through the Open House Festival website.

tour-of-billingsgate-roman-bath-house-by-jamie-smith - visitthecity

Billingsgate Roman House and Bath.

Open Days

St Bride's Church: Visit what has been called the ‘Journalist's’ Church, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
St Mary-le-Bow: Visit the home of the famous Bow Bells, with a rich history dating back to 1080.
St Mary Abchurch: St Mary Abchurch is a unique City church. Unlike almost every church in the City of London it has an almost complete Christopher Wren interior, and it has a painted dome: one of only three Wren domes in the City.

Walking tours

Film Locations of the City: A walk around places in the City you might recognise (or not) from the silver screen. Visit the impressive sites used in major films, including Harry Potter, Mission Impossible, James Bond, and many more.
The Literary City: A walking tour of the City, visiting key areas associated with famous writers, from Shakespeare, Dr Johnson, Oscar Wilde, and many others.

Guided tours

Andaz London Liverpool Street: Andaz London Liverpool Street, a concept by Hyatt, blends rich history dating back to the 1200s with modern decor and the vibrant energy of its London neighbourhood. Step inside and join them for an open house tour led by their dedicated team. Advance booking required.
Billingsgate Roman House and Baths: Discover some of London's best-preserved Roman remains. Advance booking required.

Advice and information about your visit to The City

City Information Centre: London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. Drop in to ask for advice and information about your visit to the City.

Where to eat and drink during Open House Festival

Check out our list of places to eat and drink during Open House Festival 2025.

Thursday 18 September

City of London Guides.

Open Days

St Bride's Church: Visit what has been called the ‘Journalist's’ Church, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
St Mary-le-Bow: Visit the home of the famous Bow Bells, with a rich history dating back to 1080.

Walking Tours

Pubs and Taverns of the City: A walking tour exploring the fascinating architectural and social history of the City of London's most iconic public houses. Learn about the importance of pubs and taverns to Londoners through time, as rest stops for travellers, sites of clandestine meetings, and escapes from the everyday troubles of life.

Guided tours

Andaz London Liverpool Street: Andaz London Liverpool Street, a concept by Hyatt, blends rich history dating back to the 1200s with modern décor and the vibrant energy of its London neighbourhood. Step inside and join them for an open house tour led by their dedicated team. Advance booking required.

Advice and information about your visit to The City

City Information Centre: London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. Drop in to ask for advice and information about your visit to the City.

Where to eat and drink during Open House Festival

Check out our list of places to eat and drink during Open House Festival 2025.

Friday 19 September

A vibrant fair scene with people of various ages socialising and participating in activities like crafts. Trees and colourful bunting surround the area.

Promotional image for Bartholomew Fayre.

Explore the City’s Livery Halls

Founders’ Hall: Founders' Hall boasts a unique blend of neo-Vernacular, Arts and Crafts, and Post-Modern styles. Its exterior features distinctive gabled bays, terracotta panels, and metal grilles, while the interior showcases a ceremonial staircase, ornate parlour, and a livery hall illuminated by impressive œil de bœuf windows, creating an exceptional fusion of architectural elements.

Open Days

Bartholomew's Fayre: Great St Barts: Bartholomew's Fayre is a community festival taking place within the Smithfield Rotunda Garden, Great St Barts and the surrounding areas.
Bartholomew's Fayre: Smithfield Rotunda Garden: A bold and brilliant grassroots community festival, celebrating creativity, history, activism and togetherness. Across two-jam packed days, they’ll be taking over Smithfield with an exciting mix of hands-on art, thought-provoking talks, walking tours and live performances inspired by the anarchic joyousness of the original Bartholomew Fair.
The Museum of Transology: Exploring Trans Spatiality: Explore The Museum of Transology’s archive of objects donated by trans, intersex and non-binary people to uncover the timely relationships to space, amenities and privacy these artefacts show. This workshop and exploration of the archive will be run by Scar Barclay, the exhibition designer of TRANCESTRY: 10 Years of the Museum of Transology, and will consider trans spatial equity and spatiality.
St Bride's Church: Visit what has been called the ‘Journalist's’ Church, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
Smithfield Market: Smithfield Market comprises three buildings; two Victorian and one 1960's. All three buildings are Grade II* listed. Smithfield is the only remaining wholesale market in the City of London and the site is operational Monday to Friday. There will be a tour route setup up through the East side of the building that visitors can walk through on their own, with staff at either end. There will be information on each of the family businesses along the route for visitors to read through. Free, drop-in. Places are limited on a first come, first served basis.
Barnard's Inn Hall: Barnard's Inn Hall has been home to an Inn of Chancery, The Mercers' School, and now Gresham College. It's history spans centuries, including surviving the Great Fire of London in 1666. The hall is now used to host free public lectures. The Hall dates from the late 14th century, with early 16th century linen-fold panelling. The historic chalk and tile walling preserved in the southern wall of the Council Chamber below the Hall is much older, probably dating from the Saxon or early medieval periods.
St Mary-le-Bow: Visit the home of the famous Bow Bells, with a rich history dating back to 1080.

Guided Tour

E.ON's Citigen energy centre: A rare chance to see energy in action! Hidden behind two Listed Building façades opposite Smithfield Market, and spread across eight floors below and above ground, E.ON’s Citigen energy centre produces electricity, heat and cooling to buildings across the Square Mile. Advance booking required.

Walking tours

Word of mouth: London’s churches, pubs and press: Step into a world where sermons, gossip, and newsprint shaped the city’s soul. On this two-hour walk between Fleet Street and the Strand, we will explore London’s unique triangle of communication: churches, pubs, and the printing press. These were the original social networks — places where people gathered to worship, to argue, to drink, and to share stories.
Taming the Thames: Londoners and London's river: This walk explores the river that shaped London. As you follow the North Bank, you will uncover how the Thames sparked the city’s birth, powered trade, and supported daily life. From ancient monument, to medieval bridge building, Victorian engineering, to today’s iconic views and new super sewer – the riverside reveals Londoners' evolving relationship with the Thames.
Muslim Heritage of the City tour: Join a captivating journey through the City of London with our exclusive Muslim Heritage Tour. Discover the deep connections of Salahuddin Ayubi and marvel at the UK's oldest Muslim statues, dating back 1000 years. Uncover the legacy of England’s most famous Middle Eastern immigrant and delve into fascinating tales of crime and health in history.

Talks

The London Centre: Home of NLA, London’s built environment community, and located in the West Wing of the Guildhall complex, the Centre highlights scale architectural models of London: the New London Model and the City Model, in additional to a rotating exhibition highlighting key NLA projects. Join them for a free lunchtime talk at The London Centre to learn about London’s historical and physical development.

Advice and information about your visit to The City

City Information Centre: London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. Drop in to ask for advice and information about your visit to the City.

Where to eat and drink during Open House Festival

Check out our list of places to eat and drink during Open House Festival 2025.

Saturday 20 September

London's Roman Amphitheatre.

Explore the City’s Livery Halls

Farmers and Fletchers' Hall: Farmers and Fletchers' Hall is one of the 44 Livery Halls in the City of London. The Hall is the home to both the Worshipful Company of Fletchers, an ancient Livery Company and the Farmers, a modern Livery Company. The Worshipful Company of Fletchers will open it's doors to show members of the public some of the modern work of the Fletchers Livery, it's traditions and heritage. They will have guided tours and talks on throughout the day.
Bakers' Hall: There has been a Bakers' Hall on its current site since 1505. The current incarnation dates from 1964, and is a unique collaboration of old and new. The hall was originally designed by Trehearne and Norman, Preston and Partners in conjunction with Past Master William Newcome- Wright and is the first of the post-war [World War II] livery halls in a Modernist idiom. Visitors will have the chance to explore the hall, view items from the archive, and attend a guided tour of the building. Members of the Company will be on hand to answer questions about the Company and its long history.
Coopers’ Hall: Coopers' Hall is a late 17th century, timber-framed merchant's house with a Georgian frontage. See inside the building a discover their display of artefacts of the coopers' trade.
Founders’ Hall: Founders' Hall boasts a unique blend of neo-Vernacular, Arts and Crafts, and Post-Modern styles. Its exterior features distinctive gabled bays, terracotta panels, and metal grilles, while the interior showcases a ceremonial staircase, ornate parlour, and a livery hall illuminated by impressive œil de bœuf windows, creating an exceptional fusion of architectural elements.
Leathersellers’ Hall: Take a tour of the new Livery Hall behind a retained 1920s façade. The interiors have been innovatively designed by Eric Parry Architects to incorporate features of previous Halls, playing with concepts of time in a way that reflects key aspects of the Leathersellers as an ancient London livery company that values its long history while playing a full role in modern society and looking ahead to the future. Advance booking required.
Temple Bar: The last surviving gateway to the City of London, Temple Bar is 350 year olds and was also designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Temple Bar is rarely open to the general public and is now the Livery Hall of The Company of Architects.
Drapers Hall: The present Hall, situated in Throgmorton Street, was bought from King Henry VIII in 1543 for the sum of 1,800 marks (approximately £1,200). It has a late 19C facade and opulent Victorian interior.

Open Days

Guildhall: The City's seat of municipal government since 12C. Grade I listed, rare example of medieval civic architecture. Historic banqueting hall and a site of major moments in British history that is still used today.
Bartholomew's Fayre: Great St Barts: Bartholomew's Fayre is a community festival taking place within the Smithfield Rotunda Garden, Great St Barts and the surrounding areas.
Bartholomew's Fayre: Smithfield Rotunda Garden: A bold and brilliant grassroots community festival, celebrating creativity, history, activism and togetherness. Across two-jam packed days, they’ll be taking over Smithfield with an exciting mix of hands-on art, thought-provoking talks, walking tours and live performances inspired by the anarchic joyousness of the original Bartholomew Fair.
St Bride's Church: Visit what has been called the ‘Journalist's’ Church, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
Smithfield Market: Smithfield Market comprises three buildings; two Victorian and one 1960's. All three buildings are Grade II* listed. Smithfield is the only remaining wholesale market in the City of London and the site is operational Monday to Friday. There will be a tour route setup up through the East side of the building that visitors can walk through on their own, with staff at either end. There will be information on each of the family businesses along the route for visitors to read through. Free, drop-in. Places are limited on a first come, first served basis.
St Vedast alias Foster: A 12th century church, the building escaped total destruction during the Great Fire of 1666 and was restored. Christopher Wren was eventually called in to rebuild St Vedast, completing the work in October 1673.
8-10 Moorgate: Visit the impressive client reception floor and terraces of Dutch bank ING's UK office and encounter the amazing art and archive collections on display in a vibrant blend of old and new. For younger visitors a colourful art trail is available with a small prize for those who complete it.
Barnard's Inn Hall: Barnard's Inn Hall has been home to an Inn of Chancery, The Mercers' School, and now Gresham College. It's history spans centuries, including surviving the Great Fire of London in 1666. The hall is now used to host free public lectures. The Hall dates from the late 14th century, with early 16th century linen-fold panelling. The historic chalk and tile walling preserved in the southern wall of the Council Chamber below the Hall is much older, probably dating from the Saxon or early medieval periods.
St Lawrence Jewry: Another City of London church designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1671 this is the official church to the City of London Corporation. During the open day visitors will be able to attend a talk on Historical maps of London and listen to organ recitals.
Bank of England Museum: During your visit, you’ll discover some of the Bank of England's history and architecture, and some of its responsibilities as the UK's central bank. Learn about why people started using paper money, and discover why banknotes are so difficult to copy. Test your strength by picking up a gold bar, and find out more about the gold bars stored in their vaults!
St Mary Aldermary: The church was first mentioned c1080 and is the oldest of the City churches dedicated to St Mary. It became a Guild Church by virtue of the City of London (Guild Churches) Act, 1952. It is the only Wren church built in the Late Gothic style after the Great Fire of London, 1666, thanks to a bequest.
Dr Johnson’s House: Fine example of an early 5-floor Queen Anne town house with original panelling, open staircase and unique 'swinging panels' on the open-plan first floor. Johnson compiled his famous 'Dictionary of the English Language' (1755) here. Hear about the architectural history of the house, including the writer, Samuel Johnson and his household.

Walking tours

Fleet Street uncovered: Discover the geographical and historical influences that made Fleet Street a hub of power, faith, and print. Starting at St Bride’s Church, this walking tour explores how its location between The City and Westminster attracted churches, institutions, and businesses, shaping it into a centre of influence for over a thousand years.
The Literary City: A walking tour of the City, visiting key areas associated with famous writers, from Shakespeare, Dr Johnson, Oscar Wilde, and many others.
Muslim Heritage of the City tour: Join a captivating journey through the City of London with our exclusive Muslim Heritage Tour. Discover the deep connections of Salahuddin Ayubi and marvel at the UK's oldest Muslim statues, dating back 1000 years. Uncover the legacy of England’s most famous Middle Eastern immigrant and delve into fascinating tales of crime and health in history.
Heroes and Villains in the City: City of London was founded by Romans nearly 2000 years ago. During its existence there were many heroes, but also some villains. Over the years many murders, hangings and executions took place here. During this tour you will visit some of these sites to learn about the good, the bad and the ugly. Sherlock Holmes, William Wallace. Bloody Mary and more...
The Barbican & The City Gardens: On this walking tour you will get the opportunity to enjoy some of the secret gardens of the City of London. The City has plethora of open spaces and gardens. You will stop in several gardens including Salter's Hall gardens and wonderful water gardens in the Barbican. You will also visit the famous Postman's Park and learn about The Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice. And the Handkerchief Tree!
Historic & Modern Buildings in the City: On this walk you will see many historic & modern buildings in the City of London, look at different architecture styles having regard to the environment and sustainability, and hear about famous architects, past and present.
The Great Fire of London: On this walk learn about the Great Fire of London in September 1666, the conflagration that destroyed most of the City, thousands of houses, many churches and St Paul’s Cathedral destroyed. You will also learn about Christopher Wren, who played a significant role in rebuilding the City.
Slavery and the City: Explore sites and institutions with direct links to the history of slavery and hear why the apologies were made in 2020, whilst wandering within the story packed streets and alleyways of the Square Mile.

Guided tours

Guildhall: The City's seat of municipal government since 12C. Grade I listed, rare example of medieval civic architecture. Historic banqueting hall and a site of major moments in British history that is still used today. Join them for guided tours, with BSL guided tours taking place at 11.30am and 2.30pm. Advance booking required for guided tours.
Guildhall Art Gallery and London’s Roman Amphitheatre: Join a combined tour of Guildhall Art Gallery and London's Roman Amphitheatre and discover the Gallery’s wide-ranging collection of 250 works of art and the 2000-year-old remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre.
London Museum, West Smithfield: Find out more about the incredible journey to create a new museum for London. Enter the ballot for a special tour of the Poultry Market (currently in construction). Advance booking required.
Billingsgate Roman House and Baths: Discover some of London's best-preserved Roman remains. Advance booking required.
Leathersellers’ Hall: Take a tour of the new Livery Hall behind a retained 1920s façade. The interiors have been innovatively designed by Eric Parry Architects to incorporate features of previous Halls, playing with concepts of time in a way that reflects key aspects of the Leathersellers as an ancient London livery company that values its long history while playing a full role in modern society and looking ahead to the future. Advance booking required.
Leadenhall Market: Explore Leadenhall’s history on a guided walk, from Roman roots to Victorian grandeur, ending with exclusive access to Roman Basilica ruins. Advance booking required.
College of Arms: The College of Arms is the heraldic authority for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and the workplace of the Officers of Arms, better known as the Heralds. Constructed 1671–88 on the site of the Heralds' previous home (which was burnt down in the Great Fire of London) the impressive Restoration building houses a unique collection of historic heraldic manuscripts dating back to the Middle Ages. They will have guided tours through some of the College's most important and impressive rooms, conducted by one of the Heralds. Advance booking required.
Guildhall: The City's seat of municipal government since 12C. Grade I listed, rare example of medieval civic architecture. Historic banqueting hall and a site of major moments in British history that is still used today. Join them for guided tours, with BSL guided tours taking place at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

Talks

The London Centre: Home of NLA, London’s built environment community, and located in the West Wing of the Guildhall complex, the Centre highlights scale architectural models of London: the New London Model and the City Model, in additional to a rotating exhibition highlighting key NLA projects. Join them for a free lunchtime talk at The London Centre to learn about London’s historical and physical development.
Fleet Street Heritage Wall and Sundial: The Fleet Street Heritage Wall comprises 86 A3 information panels about the people, places, ideas and newspapers which made the name of Fleet Street famous throughout the world. Each Saturday and Sunday from 10 until 4, Piers Nicholson, who created the Heritage Sundial above the Wall, will speak on the project and its innovative features which will make it widely accessible to all comers.
St Lawrence Jewry: Another City of London church designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1671 this is the official church to the City of London Corporation. During the open day visitors will be able to attend a talk on Historical maps of London, listen to organ recitals, and on Sunday 21 September hear a bellringing full peal from 3.30 to 7.30pm.

Family Activities

8-10 Moorgate: Visit the impressive client reception floor and terraces of Dutch bank ING's UK office and encounter the amazing art and archive collections on display in a vibrant blend of old and new. For younger visitors a colourful art trail is available with a small prize for those who complete it.

Advice and information about your visit to The City

City Information Centre: London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. Drop in to ask for advice and information about your visit to the City.

Where to eat and drink during Open House Festival

Check out our list of places to eat and drink during Open House Festival 2025.

Sunday 21 September

An ornate wooden staircase, stained glass windows, and traditional wall decorations. A chandelier hangs above, and portraits are displayed along the walls

Apothecaries Hall in the City of London. Photo courtesy of the venue.

Explore the City’s Livery Halls

Temple Bar: The last surviving gateway to the City of London, Temple Bar is 350 year olds and was also designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Temple Bar is rarely open to the general public and is now the Livery Hall of The Company of Architects.
Stationers' Hall: The Stationers' Company was first formed in 1403 by manuscript writers, illuminators and book binders. Amongst the first medieval craftsmen to stop being itinerant and to trade from fixed 'stations' close to cathedrals, they were known in London as 'stationers'; thus the name that they gave to their newly formed guild. The Hall today is one of the most beautiful in London in spite of serious damage caused by enemy action in 1940.
Apothecaries’ Hall: Explore the oldest surviving Livery Hall in the City during their open day. See the Society's apothecaries' drug jars and pill tiles, a portrait of Gideon de Laune, Royal Apothecary to Anne of Denmark and founder of the Society, as well as Irish oak panelling by Robert Burges and Roger Davies in the Great Hall which dates from 1671.

Open Days

Guildhall: The City's seat of municipal government since 12C. Grade I listed, rare example of medieval civic architecture. Historic banqueting hall and a site of major moments in British history that is still used today.

St Bride's Church: Visit what has been called the ‘Journalist's’ Church, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
Guildhall Yard: Publicly accessible space outside the spectacular Grade I listed medieval civic Guildhall. Located above the remains of London's Roman amphitheatre, the outline of the arena is marked out by black paving stones within the Yard itself. See the London Pearly Kings and Queens Society Costermongers Harvest Festival, with maypole dancing, rock choir, marching band, Morris dancers.
St Lawrence Jewry: Another City of London church designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1671 this is the official church to the City of London Corporation. During the open day visitors will be able to attend a talk on Historical maps of London, listen to organ recitals, and on Sunday 21 September hear a bellringing full peal from 3.30 to 7.30pm.
Bank of England Museum: During your visit, you’ll discover some of the Bank of England's history and architecture, and some of its responsibilities as the UK's central bank. Learn about why people started using paper money, and discover why banknotes are so difficult to copy. Test your strength by picking up a gold bar, and find out more about the gold bars stored in their vaults.
Dr Johnson’s House: Fine example of an early 5-floor Queen Anne town house with original panelling, open staircase and unique 'swinging panels' on the open-plan first floor. Johnson compiled his famous 'Dictionary of the English Language' (1755) here. Hear about the architectural history of the house, including the writer, Samuel Johnson and his household.

Walking tours

Internet infrastructure of London walking tour: This tour will walk you through the ubiquitous but often invisible infrastructure that enables millions of Londoners to stay connected, guided by a research fellow and artist from the Internet Society. Walkers will learn how architecture originally made for transport and communication, now enables internet connectivity. They will learn how to untangle the invisible signs of internet connectivity across the city, often disguised under manholes, up lamp posts, and behind inconspicuous buildings.
Visionaries, Heretics and Ale Wives: Discover the lives of London’s women in the Middle Ages through plague and mysticism to early entrepreneurialism — despite the patriarchy of the Guilds! And find out where the so - called Winchester Geese lived - and died.
Heroes and Villains in the City: City of London was founded by Romans nearly 2000 years ago. During its existence there were many heroes, but also some villains. Over the years many murders, hangings and executions took place here. During this tour you will visit some of these sites to learn about the good, the bad and the ugly. Sherlock Holmes, William Wallace. Bloody Mary and more...
The Barbican & The City Gardens: On this walking tour you will get the opportunity to enjoy some of the secret gardens of the City of London. The City has plethora of open spaces and gardens. You will stop in several gardens including Salter's Hall gardens and wonderful water gardens in the Barbican. You will also visit the famous Postman's Park and learn about The Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice. And the Handkerchief Tree!
Spitalfields - stories of people: A walk through the east end of London focusing on the stories of those who came and made this their home.
Historic & Modern Buildings in the City: On this walk you will see many historic & modern buildings in the City of London, look at different architecture styles having regard to the environment and sustainability, and hear about famous architects, past and present.
The Great Fire of London: On this walk learn about the Great Fire of London in September 1666, the conflagration that destroyed most of the City, thousands of houses, many churches and St Paul’s Cathedral destroyed. You will also learn about Christopher Wren, who played a significant role in rebuilding the City.

Guided tours

Leadenhall Market: Explore Leadenhall’s history on a guided walk, from Roman roots to Victorian grandeur, ending with exclusive access to Roman Basilica ruins.
Guildhall Art Gallery and London’s Roman Amphitheatre: Join a combined tour of Guildhall Art Gallery and London's Roman Amphitheatre and discover the Gallery’s wide-ranging collection of 250 works of art and the 2000-year-old remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre.
Leadenhall Market: Explore Leadenhall’s history on a guided walk, from Roman roots to Victorian grandeur, ending with exclusive access to Roman Basilica ruins. Advance booking required.
College of Arms: The College of Arms is the heraldic authority for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and the workplace of the Officers of Arms, better known as the Heralds. Constructed 1671–88 on the site of the Heralds' previous home (which was burnt down in the Great Fire of London) the impressive Restoration building houses a unique collection of historic heraldic manuscripts dating back to the Middle Ages. They will have guided tours through some of the College's most important and impressive rooms, conducted by one of the Heralds. Advance booking required.
Guildhall: The City's seat of municipal government since 12C. Grade I listed, rare example of medieval civic architecture. Historic banqueting hall and a site of major moments in British history that is still used today. Join them for guided tours, with BSL guided tours taking place at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

Talks

Fleet Street Heritage Wall and Sundial: The Fleet Street Heritage Wall comprises 86 A3 information panels about the people, places, ideas and newspapers which made the name of Fleet Street famous throughout the world. Each Saturday and Sunday from 10 until 4, Piers Nicholson, who created the Heritage Sundial above the Wall, will speak on the project and its innovative features which will make it widely accessible to all comers.

Advice and information about your visit to The City

City Information Centre: London's main tourist information centre is clad in a specially manufactured system of 220 pre-finished stainless steel panels. Drop in to ask for advice and information about your visit to the City.

Where to eat and drink during Open House Festival

Check out our list of places to eat and drink during Open House Festival 2025.

Self-Guided Walks

An individual is sliding down a rooftop slope with the backdrop of St Paul's Cathedral.

Promotional image for Mission: Impossible - Fallout City Chase Self-Guided Walk.

If you're looking for more things to do in the City of London during Open House Festival 2025 there are also lots of self-guided walks that you can take at anytime of the year. From Mission Impossible filming locations, The Great Fire of London to exploring literary greats there's something for everyone.