Discover the fascinating history of Moorgate in the City.
While best known for its railway station, Moorgate has played an important role in London history since Roman times. Learn more in this history hike of Moorgate.
About Moorgate
Now near the heart of one of the world’s largest financial districts, Moorgate originally comprised open fields, and was a secondary gate of the London Wall while Britain was under Roman rule (hence the name ‘moor’ and ‘gate’!). As the City of London expanded during the Industrial Revolution, however, it became heavily developed, with a railway station opening in 1865.
About The London Wall
The London Wall was probably built in the 2nd or 3rd century, when London was known as ‘Londinium’. The wall, originally about four kilometres long, featured four city gates and survived after the Romans withdrew from the area in the 5th century. Gradually, however, this defence fell into decay, and by the 17th century numerous buildings and railway lines had been constructed around it, destroying much of the brickwork.
A quick journey along the London Wall road
Fortunately, fragments of the London Wall still remain. The surviving part is opposite the Tower of London, one of Europe’s great fortresses, built for the Norman ruler William the Conqueror in the 11th century. The original wall extended further north towards Aldgate, the eastern gateway to the wall. After heading northwest along Dukes Place, Bevis Marks and beyond Wormwood Street, you can find the London Wall road.
As you head east along the London Wall road, just to the right is Finsbury Circus, one of London’s great Georgian gardens and the largest public space in the City of London. Further west along the London Wall road you will pass The Globe, a charming Victorian pub which is for its beautiful rococo exterior and shares its name with 30 other pubs also founded in the 19th century. Next to what was the northwestern corner of the wall is the Museum of London, which showcases the history of the city from the prehistoric period to the present day and is often hired for corporate events.
The museum lies opposite Plaisterers’ Hall, one of London’s most extravagant livery halls.
About Plaisterers’ Hall
Opened in 1972, this Livery Hall is renowned for its Neo-Classical 18th-century decor, and is a popular space for private functions in London. The hall was built by the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers, which has existed for more than five centuries, having operated in two earlier halls that were sadly destroyed by fires.
Today, Plaisterers’ Hall, is perfect for corporate functions, conferences, parties and other private events in the City. To find out how you can book this venue and schedule a visit, contact our friendly sales team.
