Exploring Londinium: A Day in Roman London

Start with breakfast - Recommendations near the Tower of London

• Rotunda Bar and Lounge at Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square: for those who prefer a hearty start to their day, the Rotunda’s "Breakfast Landmark" offers a refined twist on the classic Full English breakfast. Featuring Burford Brown eggs and San Marzano tomatoes.

• De Vine: opening at 7am, De Vine serves a no-frills, exceptionally delicious local breakfast. While the atmosphere is understated, the quality of the food makes it a favorite for those seeking an authentically local morning meal.

The Tower of London and the Londinium City Wall

Begin your exploration here in the ‘Square Mile’, the financial heart of modern London. Adjacent to the Tower of London on Tower Hill, you’ll discover remnants of the London Wall. Although some sections were added during the medieval and Tudor periods, the distinctly Roman portions, marked by their lines of red tile, still stand. This ancient fortification once encircled Londinium. After marveling at the wall and the statue of Emperor Trajan, explore the Tower of London—a must-see.

Lunch Recommendations

• Coppa Club Tower Bridge: indulge in a delightful meal from a private igloo with stunning views of the Thames River. Reservations are recommended.

London Bridge, Church of St Magnus-the-Martyr, and Roman Wharf Timber

Wander from the Tower of London along Lower Thames Street towards historic London Bridge. Along the way, you’ll pass the Billingsgate Roman House & Baths. A short 10-minute walk will bring you to St Magnus-the-Martyr Church, where you can view a fascinating relic: a piece of Roman Wharf timber from the old London Bridge, dating back to 75 AD. Nearby stands the Great Fire of London Memorial.

London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE and Roman Temple of Mithras

A brief 10-minute stroll takes you to the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE, nestled within Bloomberg’s European Headquarters, next to Bank Station. This hidden gem houses the Roman Temple of Mithras, originally constructed around 240 AD on the banks of the River Walbrook. Discovered in 1954, London Mithraeum offers an immersive experience through atmospheric effects and special lighting, making it a highlight for those seeking an unforgettable encounter with ancient history.

Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre

Not far from the Mithraeum, beneath the Guildhall Art Gallery, lie the remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre. Rediscovered in 1988, this grand arena once hosted gladiatorial combats, offering a fascinating glimpse into London’s ancient past against the backdrop of the gallery’s elegant surroundings.

Coffee Break

• Black Sheep Coffee: Black Sheep Coffee serves robusta beans in a rebellious twist on tradition. Pair your coffee with a selection of extravagant Norwegian waffles.

• Curators Coffee Studio: a haven for connoisseurs of full-bodied specialty coffee.

• Where’s Fred’s: located in Frederick’s Place, this spot functions as both a café and a wine bar. Enjoy a glass of wine while reflecting on the day.

Museum of London and a Roman Fort

Head further north. The Museum of London is closed until 2026, so take a detour to Noble Street, and just a short walk away are more city wall ruins. These ruins provide a striking contrast to the contemporary cityscape. Across the street from London Wall, a charming park features additional Roman remnants, including a Roman Fort Gate and more sections of the ancient city wall.

The Gherkin at 30 St. Mary Axe and the Tomb of the Unknown Roman Girl

As you make your way back towards the Tower of London, consider visiting The Gherkin, one of the city’s most iconic modern landmarks. During its construction, the remains of a young woman from around 350-400 AD were uncovered. Her remains, removed and reinterred after extensive archaeological work, add a unique bit of history to this striking skyscraper.

Casual Dinner

After a day of exploration, a hearty meal awaits. While dining options abound near The Gherkin, there are many delicious options available in the City of London.

• Searcy’s at the Gherkin: for a rooftop dining experience with sweeping city views, Searcy’s at the Gherkin provides an iconic setting. Reservations are recommended.

• Brigadiers Bloomberg: combining upscale Indian dining with a sports bar vibe, Brigadiers offers exceptional Indian-British fusion cuisine and cocktails. Reservations are recommended.

• Burger & Lobster: as the name suggests, enjoy some surf and turf in a casual setting at Burger & Lobster.

• Three Uncles: this unassuming yet aesthetically pleasing spot serves authentic Cantonese cuisine. Be prepared for a possible wait, as it is a popular choice among locals. Try one of their seasonal specialties.

Rest

What a day! Don’t forget to explore other hints of Roman Britain beyond the City of London, including the Boudica statue in Greater London, the Roman Baths in Bath, or Hadrian’s Wall in northern England.