London Benjamin Franklin History Tour

Follow the incredible London life of United States Founding Father Benjamin Franklin.
Franklin lived in London for nearly 20 years, and this fun, history based tour takes you on a journey through the streets he knew well.
His first extended stay as a young batchelor helped shape and form the man he would become. He later returned for 16 years as a Diplomat representing Colonial interests. During this period he made the change from viewing himself an Englishman and supporter of the King, to an ardent supporter of the American Revolution, and signatory to the Declaration of Independence.

This private and personalised tour allows you to follow in his footsteps across the oldest parts of the City of London, discovering many famous landmarks as well as some hidden Gems, including the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin in the world.

Meeting Point

St. Paul's

Cheapside, London EC2V 6AA, UK

Meet outside the entrance/exit of St Paul's Underground Station.

What's included:

• Private Tour Guide

Not included:

• Tube/Bus Fares if we use Public Transport (Optional)

What to expect:

Duration: between 2 hours and 3 hours

Smithfield Market

Grand Ave, London, EC1A 9PS

Follow in the footsteps of young Benjamin Franklin on his first trip to London, and the historic Printing neighborhood where he took up residence and began his working life in London.

30 minutes

Fleet Street

Fleet St, , London, EC4

Historic Home of the press in London. And nearby in one of London's oldest Pubs we find a location where the "Hell Fire Club" met. Benjamin Franklin was reportedly a member of this notorious club.

20 minutes

St. Paul's Cathedral

St Paul's Churchyard, London, EC4M 8AD

St Paul's is one of London's most iconic landmarks, and the location where Benjamin Franklin installed lightning conductor rods. Here you will learn about Franklin's scientific endeavors in London.

15 minutes

Inner Temple

London, EC4Y 7HL

This fascinating area is a hidden world within the City of London, out of sight of the average tourist. Home of the legal profession with Templar and Masonic links. Let's delve in to some of Franklin's links to this special hidden gem in the city.

20 minutes

Houses of Parliament

Parliament Square, London, SW1A 0AA

As a Diplomat representing American Colonial Interests, Franklin was present at some of the key political arguments and debates in Westminster. Here we will discuss the key moments that led to Franklin Leaving London and signing the Declaration of Independence.

25 minutes

Benjamin Franklin House

36 Craven Street, , London, WC2N 5NF

Situated on Craven Street, This is the very house Benjamin Franklin lived in for 16 years in London. It is also the only home of his that remains anywhere in the world, and can claim to be the first US Embassy!
Also on this street lived two other key figures in US history (but we won't spoil the surprise here)
Please note: Benjamin Franklin House is open Friday/Saturday/Sunday only. So if you want to visit the house please ensure you book the Friday tour option.

(Tours on Mon, Tues, Weds, Thursday Finish at the House, but don't visit inside, and are therefore slightly reduced in cost.)

45 minutes • Admission Ticket Included