knights templar places to visit uk

Unveiling Templar Secrets: Top 10 Sites in England to Discover the Knights Templar

The enigmatic knights templar, an ancient order of warrior-monks, have left an indelible mark on history and intrigue..

Medieval Cavalry Shields of the KnightsTemplars

“The Knights Templar were a unique and powerful medieval military order, shrouded in mystery and controversy. They played a significant role in the history of the Crusades , and their wealth and influence made them both admired and feared in their time.” Karen Armstrong, historian and author of “Holy War: The Crusades and Their Impact on Today’s World.”

England, with its rich medieval heritage, holds numerous sites where you can explore the legacy of the Knights Templar.

Here are the top 10 sites in england to uncover the mysteries of this legendary order, 1. temple church, london.

Nestled in the heart of London, the Temple Church is the iconic home of the Knights Templar in England. Marvel at the unique round design and effigies that pay homage to these knightly defenders.

Official Site

2. Rosslyn Chapel, Scotland (Bonus Site)

While not in England, Rosslyn Chapel in Scotland is closely associated with Templar symbolism and legends, making it a worthy pilgrimage for enthusiasts.

3. Temple Church, Bristol

A counterpart to its London counterpart, the Temple Church in Bristol offers another glimpse into the Templar legacy, showcasing their influence across England.

Dover Castle, Kent

Dover Castle’s underground tunnels were reportedly used by the Knights Templar, adding a layer of intrigue to this historic fortress.

5. Temple Manor, Kent

Located on the site of a Templar preceptory, Temple Manor stands as a testament to the order’s presence in medieval England.

6. Temple Balsall, West Midlands

Explore the remnants of the Knights Templar’s establishment in the Midlands, where you can discover the stories behind their agricultural practices.

7. Temple Church, Lincolnshire

The Temple Church in Lincolnshire offers a unique octagonal design, a departure from the more common round templar churches, and a glimpse into their architectural variations.

8. South Witham Church, Lincolnshire

This humble church features intriguing carvings that are believed to be related to the Knights Templar, sparking speculation and curiosity.

Church of St John the Baptist%2C South Witham geograph.org.uk 89916

9. Little Maplestead Church, Essex

Admire the Knight Templar effigies within this charming village church, offering a direct connection to the knights of old.

St John the Baptist Church%2C Little Maplestead 3

10. Cressing Temple, Essex

Explore Cressing Temple, a site that once served as a Templar preceptory and now hosts historical reenactments, bringing the medieval world to life.

The wheat barn at Cressing Temple%2C Essex geograph.org.uk 255587

“The rise and fall of the Knights Templar is a captivating tale of religious fervor, political intrigue, and financial power. They were a symbol of the medieval Church’s ambition and the ultimate example of a military order gone awry in the eyes of the Church and the monarchy.” Dan Jones, historian and author of “The Templars: The Rise and Spectacular Fall of God’s Holy Warriors.”

Please note that the availability and content of official websites may change over time, so it’s a good idea to verify the information using a reliable search engine or contact the relevant authorities or organizations for the most up-to-date details.

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History of England

The Knights Templar

Mystery, legend and myth surround the Knights Templar, a religious military order of knighthood formed at the time of the Crusades and sworn to defend Christian holy sites in the Holy Land.

Jessica Brain

One of London’s great and perhaps overlooked landmarks is the Temple Church, a fitting historical reminder of England and its role in the Crusades .

The Knights Templar and its history in England began not long after the end of the First Crusade, a war waged on the Muslim world to protect the Holy Sites and the Christian East. What emerged proved to be a long and arduous tale of conflict fought by medieval warriors who combined their religious devotion with knightly impulses which came to characterise this period of European history.

The Knights Templar was a military order founded in 1119 which would become one of the strongest, well-known and lucrative of the orders. With its headquarters at Temple Mount in Jerusalem, the lifespan of this military order was almost two centuries, in which time, its members would become skilled warriors and participants in the continuing escalation of fighting known as the Crusades.

In 1099AD Jerusalem had been captured from the Fatimid Caliphate and had fallen into the hands of the Franks, thus ensuring that the Crusaders were in control of the Holy City. This win however was not enough to secure the remaining land surrounding the site and thus Christian pilgrims found themselves in vulnerable positions whilst on their way to Jerusalem.

As a result, in 1119 a French knight, Hugues de Payens made his plea to King Baldwin II of Jerusalem to create a religious order designed solely for the protection of these Christian pilgrims. Baldwin and the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Warmund, agreed and thus the Knights Templar was allowed its headquarters in the royal palace on the Temple Mount.

Meanwhile, in the far western corner of Europe, England had remained on the fringes of the First Crusade, with little involvement and lacking the mass participation of its continental neighbour France.

Therefore a few years later in 1128 the French knight and creator of the Knights Templar, Hugues de Payens, paid a visit to England hoping to secure their support.

The Grand Master requested finance and manpower and in very little time, his mission garnered success.

In the same year as Payens visit, the first Templar house was established in London, with its early patrons including King Stephen and Queen Matilda . The Templars would later move to a larger site which had included Lincoln’s Inn, marking the beginning of the military order’s status in England and its continuing effect on architecture across the country.

Subsequently, King Henry II proved to be one of many English kings to take an interest in the Templars activities and was receptive to their needs; so much so, that he paid for the upkeep of 200 Templar knights in the Holy Land.

Henry II gave the Templars land, some of which was used to construct a round church, patterned on the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, which was inaugurated by King Henry II in 1185, thus establishing a long tradition of alliance between the kings of England and the Templars.

In the same year, the military order had its status recognised, as the Order’s English Master sat in the House of Lords as the First Baron of the Kingdom (Primus Baro), demonstrating prestige and power in the highest offices of the land, embedding the Knights Templar in English political life.

The growing influence was increasingly evident across England with various sites scattering the country. The estate at Cressing Temple in Essex for example, was one of the earliest examples of the Templar estates in the country.

Moreover, buildings with varying functions serving as dormitories, storehouses, churches and dining halls would become a mainstay of the English architectural landscape.

Up and down the country, the infrastructure belonging to the Templars was expanding all the time, in various locations ranging from its heartland in London and spreading out to neighbouring counties of Kent, Essex and Hertfordshire. Further north, Warwickshire, Lincolnshire and Yorkshire were also home to the order’s holdings.

One example of its growing presence in English life was in Newark, Nottinghamshire, where a hospital was granted to the Templars for the sick.

Meanwhile Baldock, Hertfordshire was the site of the headquarters of the Knights Templar until 1254.

Further south in Kent, Strood was a royal manor belonging to King Henry II until he donated it to the Knights Templar in 1159, allowing the military order to assemble several buildings including a hall, kitchens and stables. The stone building which still survives today was completed later in 1240 and is known today as Temple Manor.

The original building was designed for travelling dignitaries, as a form of comfortable accommodation with facilities for those travelling between the Kent coastline and London.

For all these sites across England, many still retain the name “Temple”, which points to their medieval Templar heritage which was ubiquitous across swathes of the country.

Following the death of King Henry II, his third son, Richard , the unlikely successor of his father’s reign, came to the throne in 1189 and resumed his father’s relationship with the Templar, so much so that it became a defining feature of his reign and earned him the sobriquet, Richard the Lionheart thanks to his reputation as a military warrior of the Crusades.

From the tender age of sixteen, Richard’s propensity for military engagement was evident as he took command of his own army.

Unsurprisingly, the future English monarch therefore became a Crusader King, becoming commander during the Third Crusade and taking over from Philip II of France. In his time he gained considerable wins, particularly against his rival Saladin. In the meantime however such grand military escapades needed to receive funding and thus he went about collecting as much financial capital as he possibly could and used the tax which had started under his father, known as the Saladin tithe, in order to raise the necessary funds.

The Templars would become an integral part of this process, as both Henry II and Richard I would use them as tithe collectors. Moreover, the monarchy also confirmed their land holdings and gave them immunity from all pleas.

During the reigns of subsequent monarchs, the Templars would find themselves holding not only great political power but also financial sway, as they became integral parts of the financial mechanism of the royal court and the institutions around it.

After Richard’s demise, King John continued to bestow great privileges on the Templars.

One year into his reign, Pope Innocent III issued a papal bull giving immunity to people and goods within the houses of the Knights Templar from the local laws of the land, therefore the Templar buildings became sites of financial sanctuary. Large depositories of wealth turned the thirteenth century Templars into a financial hub of activity which only increased under King John, who also gave them even more land as their revenues increased and the New Temple became a royal treasury.

It was also at this time of great economic and political importance that the first lawyers lived in the Temple, as advisors to what was fast becoming of one the largest international organisations of its time.

During the reign of King Henry III further military, political and financial power was entrusted to the knights, and the king was present during the consecration of a nave which was added to the round church in 1240.

However the power of the Knights Templar was beginning to wane. Under King Edward I they had less say in financial and public life.

Furthermore, by the turn of the century, the favours and privileges bestowed on the military order began to dry up, as King Philip IV of France began his suppression of the order in 1307.

Whilst King Edward II was initially reticent to believe the accusations against the Knights Templar, the involvement of Pope Clement V forced Edward to act accordingly, which included giving an order to seize its members in January 1308.

In the years that followed, arrests were made and trials instigated, resulting in some reconciling with the church whilst others who refused facing death at the Tower of London .

By 1312, the King of France was increasing the pressure on Pope Clement V for more action and so, in that same year, the Knights Templar was officially dissolved at the Council of Vienne.

Subsequently, Edward II seized the New Temple for the Crown, whilst in France the remaining Templar leaders were killed.

Whilst the French zealously pursued the last of the Templars, England was more reconciliatory and many of its members were never arrested. After the dissolution all of its members were given the freedom to find a new role and place in English society, with many simply moving on to join the Hospitallers.

In the years, decades and centuries that followed, the impetus to fight the Muslims slowly dwindled along with the Templars themselves. The grand military order which had once held substantial power, both political and financial, in England and had enjoyed the endowment of great privileges from numerous kings of England, now simply faded into the landscape along with many of its buildings.

A new era was dawning, the power of the Knights Templar had been lost however its symbolism and impact on medieval life would forever be entrenched in the heritage of the British Isles.

Jessica Brain is a freelance writer specialising in history. Based in Kent and a lover of all things historical.

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Visit Temple Church – The Knights Templar church from The Da Vinci Code

Craig ’s review… Temple Church is a mysterious old place. The first time you see the knights’ effigies lying on the floor of the Round Tower you’ll come over all-Indiana Jones and want to smash up the flagstones to find the treasure beneath your feet. I’ve never seen The Da Vinci Code but I can understand why people come here hunting for clues – it’s that kind of place.

You might have a bit of trouble finding the front door because you can’t see it from the street – it’s through that arched wooden gateway underneath Prince Henry’s Room.

This Tudor survivor from the Great Fire of London looks like something straight out of Shakespeare and you’ll probably pause there for a few moments wondering whether you’re really allowed to enter (especially when you see that most of the people heading through are suited-up solicitors from the Royal Courts of Justice over the road). But when you get to the end of that atmospheric little alley you’ll see the Round Tower looming up behind a spindly little tree.

Round Tower built by the Knights Templar

The Round Tower is the original Knights Templar part from 860 years ago, built around sixty years after the Crusaders first captured Jerusalem. The military monks made their money protecting all the pilgrims who were travelling to the Holy Land, but unfortunately once the Crusades came to an end their earnings dried up and the French king took advantage of their weakness to wipe out all his debt.

The Pope was then pressured into dissolving their order and Edward II took control of the church. Later on James I turned the whole area over to a couple of legal colleges … hence why there’s still a load of lawyers walking around here today .

If you arrive when it opens then you might get lucky and have the whole place to yourself because churches are always better when they’re empty. You’re right in the heart of legal London here so there’s hardly any sound outside and the stained glass windows are some of the most brightly coloured scenes I’ve ever seen – you can pick out images of ancient kings and crusading knights and even Christopher Wren’s cathedral blazing in the Blitz.

Sometimes they’ll let you up into the balcony that runs around the inside rim of the Round Tower (they don’t always have the spiral staircase open, so cross your fingers). They’ve got some beautiful old floor tiles up there and a partial view down onto the floor but it’s probably worth doing just for the exercise (it knackered me out and it’s only two stories!). It will give you some practice for when you take on The Monument .

Stone effigies of the Knights Templar

But what makes this church so special are the battered bodies of those eight stone knights lying on the floor of the Round Tower. Some of their hands have been knocked off and a few of their feet have disappeared but their swords and shields and chainmail armour are still replete and looking remarkably well preserved given their incredible age.

Geoffrey de Mandeville & William Marshal

The first name that you might recognise is Geoffrey de Mandeville – one of the big barons during the reign of King Stephen. When Stephen was defeated in early 1141 Geoffrey switched his allegiance to Stephen’s great rival Matilda, only to switch it back again when he saw which way the wind was blowing.

Unfortunately Stephen didn’t buy his oath of loyalty and promptly confiscated two of his castles. Geoffrey then rebelled and got buried in here.

The most famous name is William Marshal who acted as Regent for Richard the Lionheart while he was away on Crusade. He also served as one of the negotiators between the big barons and King John before he was forced into signing the Magna Carta.

It would be fantastic if their bones were still buried beneath but, alas, this church’s interior has been remodelled so many times over the centuries that nobody knows for sure where they are. The Victorians shifted all the effigies around for decorative reasons and their actual bodies could be anywhere in the grounds of the Round Tower.

Worth a visit? ★ ★ ★ Value for money? ★ ★ ★ Good for kids? ★ ☆ ☆ Easy to get to? ★ ★ ★

I also recommend… If you enjoy this then try Charterhouse (walk it in 16 mins or catch a tube from Temple to Barbican ) and St. John’s Gate (walk it in 14 mins or travel from Temple to Farringdon via tube ) . If you want to visit some more beautiful old churches then try St. Bartholomew-the-Great and Brompton Oratory

Your comments and questions

JPO Spare a few hours and explore the whole Temple area around the church. Because the little alleyways and walks between all the lawyers buildings are very atmospheric of what London must have been like in bygone days. This is one little corner of London which shows you what it must have been like a long time ago. As for the church, it is well worth a visit simply to see the effigies of the knights only the floor as you go in. There is simply no other church in London which has anything similar. And you can perfectly imagine the importance of these knights when they were laid to rest in such a prominent place.

SL Great description of Temple Church. Many Thanks

nathan We were unable to go inside due to the lockdown which was a shame as we wanted to see the knights, but it is still such a beautiful building from the outside, and we had fun walking the little lanes around the area

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> Forum: London Landmarks, Attractions & Events

THE KNIGHTS TEMPLAR

OF ENGLAND & WALES

Sep 20, 2022

Map of Knights Templar Sites

Click here (or the picture below) for a map of known Knights Templar sites within the UK & Ireland.

If we've missed any please let us know in the comments and we'll add it on. There seems to be very little Templar activity within Wales, so we'd be particularly interested in knowing more about potential Templar sites here.

Grand Priory of Knights Templar in the United Kingdom

Aiding humanity on the pilgrimage through life, welcome to the grand priory of knights templar in the uk .

We are an interdenominational association of active Christians, with both clergy and lay members from all walks of life. Our Order follows the highest chivalric ideals of the medieval Order of Knights Templar which was founded by Hugh de Payens in 1119, but we make no claims to be direct inheritors of their noble history. Ours is a modern Order, built on fundraising and charitable activities which aims to improve society as a whole, not only in The United Kingdom.

Non Nobis, Domine, Non Nobis,

Sed Nomini Tuo Da Gloriam (Not to us, O Lord, not to us,

but to your name give the glory)

Anthony Cuthbert Grand Prior

GPUK is proud to be a founding member of OSMTH, Ordo Supremus Militaris Templi Hierosolymitani.

Read more about the international Order by clicking the link below.

Founded in 1119, the medieval Knights Templar protected pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land and other places of pilgrimage.

History of the Knights Templar

The Trust was originally started in 1982 by members of the Order. Our founders wanted to continue helping modern pilgrims by providing practical Christian car e in the form of financial support.

Templar Pilgrimage Trust

Primary sources
Secret societies

Unsolved mysteries

Knights Templar tours

The information below has been provided by the people and entities that organize the tours. The tours are listed in the order in which submissions were received, so be sure to take a look at all of them. The Knights Templar Vault is not endorsing any of these offers and their specific interpretive approaches, but it is our hope that you will be able to choose an enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression of enlightenment and discovery.

Grail Tours

The Languedoc is an area with a cherished history involving both the Cathars and Templars. An area of immense energy full of historical relevance. We have been extremely fortunate to work alongside some of the great minds within the genre, and due to the expertise available we have decided to put together a tour.

Tim Wallace Murphy who has sold over three million books on subjects such as the Knights Templar, ancient Hidden Wisdom and Bloodlines will be joining us for two days. As well as Henry Lincoln who wrote Holy Blood, Holy Grail, which is the precursor to The Da Vinci Code.

The aim of our tours is to introduce people to the mysteries of this area, and let them visit and enjoy some of these excellent sites within France.

Visit Grail Tours’ website.

McLean Scotland Templar Tours

Avebury and the Templar Keys

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The Knights Templar in Buckinghamshire - who they are and what they did

Their shadowy reach spread over two centuries across the entire Christian world

05:00, 5 SEP 2021

Bulstrode Park, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, 2018. The present house at Bulstrode Park was built in 1865 for Edward Adolphus Seymour, 12th Duke of Somerset. Artist Historic England Staff Photographer. (Photo by English Heritage/Heritage Images/Getty Images)

The Knights Templar are simultaneously one of the most famous and history’s most mysterious military organisations.

Founded in 1119, the Order of Solomon’s Temple – as they were originally known – was headquartered on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

But their shadowy reach spread over two centuries across the entire Christian world – including the county of Buckinghamshire .

READ MORE: The English Heritage sites an hour away from Milton Keynes

Read on to learn more about this secretive sect and the lasting marks they left on the county’s landscape.

Soldiers and bankers

The Templars – in their distinctive white tunics with red crosses – were mounted soldiers, highly trained and equipped with the best armour and weapons.

Their order was formed to protect Christian pilgrims visiting Jerusalem, who were frequently robbed and killed by bandits.

In 1139 Pope Innocent II decreed that the pilgrim-protecting Templars were exempt from following all laws, a charitable organisation free from paying taxes and subject only to his personal command.

Funding came from noble families who wanted to help contribute to the security of the Holy Land. Anyone wishing to join had to be a knight and had to take a vow of personal poverty (as well as chastity), signing over all of their possessions to the Order.

The Templars also became financiers, creating the first multinational corporation. Pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem could deposit their valuables in a local Templar outpost, called a preceptory, and withdraw their value in treasure captured by the Templars on their arrival.

This made them less attractive to highwaymen en route, as they carried only an internationally recognised credit note – something we may recognise as the forerunner of the cheque.

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A multinational concern

The Order quickly became the most powerful organisation in all Christendom, besides the Catholic Church, and they spared no expense in showing it by building chapels and preceptories all over Europe, some of which survive today.

Their English HQ was at Temple Church in London, but an inventory taken in 1185 revealed extensive holdings of land and property in London, Hertfordshire, Essex, Kent, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Salop, Oxfordshire, Cornwall, Lincolnshire and Yorkshire.

There was also a Templar preceptory at Bulstrode (from Anglo-Saxon, meaning marsh fort), on the site of Bulstrode Park, although little is known about it other than it included a water mill, dovecote and pasture which was leased out to local sheep and dairy farmers.

Templars in Buckinghamshire

The Bulstrode site near Gerrards Cross was identified by archaeologists excavating between 1974 and 1979, discovering walls and foundations with associated 14th-century pottery.

It certainly existed in 1276 when the preceptor, Brother John, was accused of taking a bribe to let a robber go free.

A report made in 1330 noted that the manor of Bulstrode had once belonged to the Order and that, after it was suppressed in the early 14th century, it passed to the abbess of Burnham.

Staff at Historic England think that buildings at Moat Farm, which still stands on Hedgerley Lane in Gerrards Cross, may even incorporate parts of the old preceptory.

The Templars possessed lands at Radnage, as revealed in records which state that they received rents on lands granted to them by King John. They also owned parts of High Wycombe , after Robert Vipont gave them the manor of Temple Wycombe in 1127.

From hamlet to highway

Marlow was merely a hamlet north of the Thames during the 13th century, entirely cut off from Bisham on the opposite side of the river. This greatly limited its prosperity, as merchants travelling west from London had no reason to pass through the town.

At that time, the Order occupied the manor house at Bisham, built for them in 1260 on lands donated by the Earl of Derby. Their allies, the Knights Hospitallers, had an outpost across the river at Widmer, north of Marlow – a bridge across the Thames would make cooperation easier.

And so the Order financed the building of a bridge, opening Marlow up to trade with the capital and allowing it to grow into the town of over 14,000 which it is today.

Descendents of the Templars

The Order of Solomon’s Temple was crushed from 1307, after making enormous loans to King Philip IV of France to fight a war with England – loans which the embattled king could not afford to pay back.

So he whipped up hostility towards the order, which had amassed enormous wealth making loans to noblemen all over Europe. Templars were arrested, tried for heresy and executed, their order dissolved by Pope Clement V.

Many Templars fled to England, where they faced indifference from King Edward II and found work with the Hospitallers. And although no modern organisation is officially descended from the Order, several claim links with the medieval knights.

These include the Masonic Order of Knights Templar, overseen locally by the Priory of Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire . Members wear white tunics with red crosses, hold secretive initiation ceremonies and refer to themselves as “Knights of the Province”.

They support many local charities plus the St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital, which was established in 1882 and reportedly treats around 100,000 people each year, largely from Gaza and the West Bank.

And so, while the physical remnants of the Knights Templar in Buckinghamshire are few and far between, their legacy continues in the people they inspired to don the robes and serve the Holy Land.

Want the latest news from across Buckinghamshire? Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss a story.

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Just WOW! A brilliant mix of historical, cultural and musical insights into an area of London I often walk through, but knew nothing about!

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At a Glance

About our secrets of london templars walk.

A hidden world right in the heart of London, our London Templars and Bloomsbury tour is a truly immersive alternative walk that explores what was once the stronghold of the Knights Templars all the way to Bloomsbury, London’s literary capital. Ideal for lovers of history, architecture and secret routes, you will discover a completely new world tucked away from Holborn’s busy roads and commercial high street. “Who enters here leaves noise behind” Charles Dickens used to say. Beautiful gardens, miniature courtyards and graceful Gothic and Victorian buildings make this tour a unique and authentic gem that is out of the radar of most touristy routes.

Tour Detail

We are very honoured to rank 14th out of over 1,230 tours in London with an average of 5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor and Google and having been awarded the certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor for the second year running. We are also finalists for Best Activity of the Year at the iNews Staycation Awards.

A unique experience in London that feels good Savio took us through different neighbourhoods with a friendly, tailored and accessible style. He knows how to use different universes (music, cinema, photos) to make us appreciate street art and... read more Savio took us through different neighbourhoods with a friendly, tailored and accessible style. He knows how to use different universes (music, cinema, photos) to make us appreciate street art and the cultural richness of these historical places in London. The small group and outdoor format is very adapted to the current context. read less

Truly and pleasantly unexpected tour! Savio provides you with an immersive experience from the music played throughout to mingling with the locals. He seemingly blends with the tapestry of the community and shows you a... read more Savio provides you with an immersive experience from the music played throughout to mingling with the locals. He seemingly blends with the tapestry of the community and shows you a thing or two of the character of the area. More importantly he provides you with the historical perspective which makes you appreciate more the story behind the street art. With Savio, you feel that your longtime friend is showing you around. Thank you very much again for a great experience! read less

Brixton I've lived in London for most of my life and have always been reasonably curious about my surroundings, and yet Savio has manged both times (I've also been on the... read more I've lived in London for most of my life and have always been reasonably curious about my surroundings, and yet Savio has manged both times (I've also been on the Shoreditch experience) to bring this city to life in a way that I can't quite articulate, but which leaves you exhilarated and desperate to explore every corner. There's a very particular magic in the way that he narrates these explorations; a friendly informality combined with passion, energy, and an exhaustive knowledge that incorporates all aspects of the area and community, both historic and contemporary. On both occasions, I've left feeling elated but never overwhelmed and with my eyes opened in a new way. Can't recommend highly enough! read less

Brixton Music and Stories it was fun and very informative, even for Londoners, learnt a lot about Music, was a good afternoon thanks Savio, he is very knowledgeable on the subject

An unexpected local friend It was great to learn so much about an area of less than 1 Square mile and it’s living community idea. We loved it and may do it again with... read more It was great to learn so much about an area of less than 1 Square mile and it’s living community idea. We loved it and may do it again with our teenager kids next time in London. Savio has so much to tell, in particular about music (Reggae) and street art. Worth for everybody, even if you are not a fan of street art. read less

Walking experience with street art, history and a great backing track! Savio is obviously not Brixton born and bred, but his passion for the area, its history, music, art and people is undisputed. He has cleverly curated an informative and enjoyable... read more Savio is obviously not Brixton born and bred, but his passion for the area, its history, music, art and people is undisputed. He has cleverly curated an informative and enjoyable walk through Brixton environs, seamlessly splicing together the history of the area, its street art, some of its more famous denizens and its local food markets with a fabulous soundtrack to match. Our family enjoyed the experience immensely, particularly learning about the music and musicians who have emerged out of Brixton life. Walking through the various Brixton markets and being introduced to some very gracious Brixton locals was also a highlight. We enjoyed a jerk chicken and plantain lunch from one of these locals, The Bushman, once the tour was over and had cocktails in a pop-up village. Savio has obviously spent a lot of time and effort ensuring this experience is informative, unique and flows beautifully - it allowed us to wander through Brixton and get a real sense of the place without feeling as though we were on a whistle-stop tourist tour. We highly recommend the experience. read less

Excellent Tour of Notting Hill My partner and I did the Notting Hill Tour on 8th March. Savio was an excellent tour guide, who knew a huge amount about the region. He is clearly... read more My partner and I did the Notting Hill Tour on 8th March. Savio was an excellent tour guide, who knew a huge amount about the region. He is clearly very passionate about music, art and culture in this area and this came across. Every stop was full of insight and interesting facts that you would not have been able to know without Savio. It was great to see where some films were shot, music recorded or art created. One of the highlights for us was the soundtrack to the walk being played out at relevant points so it correlated to what he was saying. This tour is clearly very well thought out and crafted with years of knowledge. If you have any interest in Notting Hill it is definitely worth doing, you will definitely learn something and have a great time in the process. It was only us on the tour, which allowed us to ask as many questions as we wanted. Thanks for a very enjoyable and interesting tour Savio. We will look out for the other tours you run in London too and tell our friends and family about it as well. Thank you. read less

Savio's Brixton This was my second tour with Savio, already did Nothing Hill with him and we were amazed with the amount of cool, interesting, not in your face information he shared... read more This was my second tour with Savio, already did Nothing Hill with him and we were amazed with the amount of cool, interesting, not in your face information he shared with us. Brixton was equally amazing, from the strories, music, food, street art, people we meet while on the tour...Everything was top notch. If you want to get away from touristic London, Savio is your man! read less

Amazing Shoreditch Tour! Whether you are visiting London for the first time or you lived here your whole life, i guarantee that by taking any of the Unexpected London tours you will learn... read more Whether you are visiting London for the first time or you lived here your whole life, i guarantee that by taking any of the Unexpected London tours you will learn something new, awesome and unexpected about it. In fact, these are not tours, these are shows where Savio shares his immense love for this city by walking through art, culture and music. I highly recommend the Unexpected London experiences with Savio, from Brixton, to Shoreditch, Notting Hill, Greenwich and many more... read less

Brixton with Savio was a great experience We loved experiencing Brixton with Savio. Beside Brixton uniqueness Savio is a passionate storyteller with wealth of information about what makes Brixton special... Savio is passionate, knowledgeable and welcoming. Next time... read more We loved experiencing Brixton with Savio. Beside Brixton uniqueness Savio is a passionate storyteller with wealth of information about what makes Brixton special... Savio is passionate, knowledgeable and welcoming. Next time in London, make yourself a gift and book an Unexpected London experience. read less

An experience to remember!! We visited Notting Hill for the first time and booked the experience with Savio to learn more about the neighbourhood. From the first moment he captured our interest with his... read more We visited Notting Hill for the first time and booked the experience with Savio to learn more about the neighbourhood. From the first moment he captured our interest with his charming and friendly personality, his knowledge and his enthusiasm. You can feel his love for London, Notting Hill and his work. He took us through Notting Hill, surprising us with stories about its history, the people and of course the music. We visited little shops, saw beautiful street art and heard wonderful stories about Notting Hill. We could have never found all those things out by ourselves. We can highly recommend booking with Savio. You will not be disappointed at all. It is not a tour, it is truly an experience of the highest level and for us the highlight of our weekend. If you want to get to know Notting Hill, he is the man to talk to! read less

Organisation of tripadvisor music and activity tour of Brixton accompanied by Savio I booked this undiscovered music, activity and street art tour of Brixton for my niece who moved to Brixton and Streatham Hill a year ago. Savio was absolutely fantastic at... read more I booked this undiscovered music, activity and street art tour of Brixton for my niece who moved to Brixton and Streatham Hill a year ago. Savio was absolutely fantastic at contacting us a few days before the tour to confirm meeting point and time and very attentive that it was not me doing the tour , but my niece. She absolutely loved it. Said she knew so many new fabulous places to visit in Brixton and had found a new restaurant to sample one of her fav meals , ceviches! Absolutely 10/10 from start to finish . Thank you Savio read less

Experience round Brixton Really great experience! Savio is friendly, relaxed and makes it feel like an engaging conversation with a knowledgeable friend. Very original tour learning lots about the area and being inspired... read more Really great experience! Savio is friendly, relaxed and makes it feel like an engaging conversation with a knowledgeable friend. Very original tour learning lots about the area and being inspired to explore more! Tailored content too and follow up email with links to everything we discussed. Got a chance to see a cheeky leap year proposal too (attached)! Oh and....cracking tunes! read less

Hidden gems in Notting Hill This was my third experience with Unexpected London and Savio and it was again wonderful. Savio showed me places I would have never found on my own. We also walked... read more This was my third experience with Unexpected London and Savio and it was again wonderful. Savio showed me places I would have never found on my own. We also walked through Portobello Road but before the market started to get crowded and there are a lot of stores to explore that you could easily miss. The best part was a visit to a local gallery. And I saw a piece by Banksy. But all the streetart was great and we again listened to a lot of songs on our tour. I hope to come back to London soon. Thanks again, Savio, it was a pleasure! read less

Great walk in Spitalfields Very nice and interesting walk, we heard about historical events in the area and found some cute secret places. It was a great experience I recommend it if you want... read more Very nice and interesting walk, we heard about historical events in the area and found some cute secret places. It was a great experience I recommend it if you want to really get trapped in London at least in this part of the city = ). Great time thank you so much read less

A great tour run by the very friendly Savio! This was a very interesting and insightful tour run by Savio! We learned about the history of the area as well as about the variety of street art

Be Ready For The Best Experience!! Savio is a very smart and passionate host. He explained everything I wanted to know in much detail and added music and meetings with locals. It was on of the best... read more Savio is a very smart and passionate host. He explained everything I wanted to know in much detail and added music and meetings with locals. It was on of the best experiences I have ever had in a new area. I will definitely use Savio and his Unexpected London tours again! read less

Knowledge + Talent + Bowie = A great afternoon in Brixton As a fan of Bowie since I was 14 in 1971, I knew the content of this tour was always going to be intersting as the man was a genius.... read more As a fan of Bowie since I was 14 in 1971, I knew the content of this tour was always going to be intersting as the man was a genius. My daughter bought the tour for me and she came along with me. It was cold and raining but Nick was amazing. It goes without saying that to do this you have to know your subject and the area-he did. You need talent if you are also going to treat everyone to acoustic versions of iconic songs-Nick had that in bucketfuls. He was funny and also sympathetic towards the needs of his group to take a break. All in all, I thoroughly recommend this tour and will look into Nicks other tours. read less

Intimate, friendly & enjoyable Really enjoyed our experience with the friendly and knowledgeable Savio, who made the experience very personal and informative. We learned a lot about the history of the Shoreditch area... read more Really enjoyed our experience with the friendly and knowledgeable Savio, who made the experience very personal and informative. We learned a lot about the history of the Shoreditch area and saw street art which would be impossible to find without inside knowledge. Would highly recommend if you have a few hours spare in London and interested in history, art, fashion or music. read less

Fall in love with Brixton I have been to London many times, but this was my first time in Brixton and thanks to Savio I realize I've been experiencing London the wrong way up to... read more I have been to London many times, but this was my first time in Brixton and thanks to Savio I realize I've been experiencing London the wrong way up to now. If you have any interest in music, street art, or history don't hesitate to book this experience. Savio has deep knowledge of the area, and he seemingly knew everyone in the markets and stores we visited. He purposely keeps the group size small so that it feels more like a walk with friends than a "tour," which I appreciated very much. A great value for a time well spent. read less

Cultural and Musical Wonderland If you’re interested in the history of Brixton, one of the most colourful and interesting areas of London and want to see a collection of contemporary and historic street art,... read more If you’re interested in the history of Brixton, one of the most colourful and interesting areas of London and want to see a collection of contemporary and historic street art, authentic Afro Caribbean markets and enjoy a musical time warp encompassing Bowie, The Clash, Marley and Eddie Grant, then Savio’s tour of Brixton is for you read less

Magical Christmas Savio took us through the sparkly Christmas version of London, complete with a soundtrack to set the mood. It was a bit of a workout but all in all, amazing

Shoreditch - The Grittier Side of London This tour started in the more modern area of London which made for an interesting contrast as we walked into the older neighborhood of Shoreditch. I had heard comparisons between... read more This tour started in the more modern area of London which made for an interesting contrast as we walked into the older neighborhood of Shoreditch. I had heard comparisons between Brooklyn (Williamsburg) and Shoredtich and yes, they were accurate when it comes to the amazing street art. Its a transitioning neighborhood with a rich history of the Jewish and Bangladesh communities; I was struck by hearing the Call to Prayer and seeing a former synagogue converted to a mosque. Also, the Spitelfield Market and the Federalist style homes. One was converted to a gallery above with a hidden gem of a bakery below where we enjoyed homemade cakes. Ceilings barely high enough to stand and a corner chair that made me want to stay the whole day immersed in conversation with Savio and the others on the tour. We finished with a walk through the old brewery area with street food vendors, an amazing chocolate shop, and a visit to the "Broccoli Man". The peak moments for me was the surprise at the bookstore and climbing up on the voluptuous statue. Savio has a special talent for bringing life to the streets of London. We were hanging on his every word but it isn't just the information that he shares, its the passion with which he tells stories and the joy in his face for simply being alive and living in the amazing city of London. Grazie Mille Savio! read less

Quite interesting neighbourhood Excellent guide, very enthusiastic and passionate by the subject - Brixton and their best representatives - a good walk to learn interesting facts and places with a lot of particular... read more Excellent guide, very enthusiastic and passionate by the subject - Brixton and their best representatives - a good walk to learn interesting facts and places with a lot of particular characteristics. I had a great time! read less

Nothing Hill memorable tour Savio made our trip to London memorable! Without him, we would wonder the streets of Nothing Hill, passing the most important sites of the area, without even knowing it! Through... read more Savio made our trip to London memorable! Without him, we would wonder the streets of Nothing Hill, passing the most important sites of the area, without even knowing it! Through his knowledge of the history, film, music and street art, we discovered all the beauty of the area, not to mention the perfect music he played during the tour, making the experience even more enjoyable! After the tour we recieved all the information, photos, music videos, movie clips of the movies filmed in the erea, playlist etc. All inclusive, memorable experience. Thank you Savio! See you again, this time in Brixton! read less

Christmas Tour of Covent Garden Loved my tour with Unexpected London, different to my other two tours I’ve done with Savio but yet again I discovered and experienced areas that I never would have gone... read more Loved my tour with Unexpected London, different to my other two tours I’ve done with Savio but yet again I discovered and experienced areas that I never would have gone to myself and it was a great way to capture some of the Christmas spirit in London. read less

Experience and learn about the real, 'beyond-the-obvious' London Savio promises "an immersive experience, not a tour". And he absolutely delivers on that. We did the Brixton experience recently, starting out in the comfort of a local... read more Savio promises "an immersive experience, not a tour". And he absolutely delivers on that. We did the Brixton experience recently, starting out in the comfort of a local cafe where he shared historical context and background with the small group of participants before we set out. We enjoyed and learnt about the street art, the music, the markets and the people, experiencing a wide range of aspects of this vibrant part of south London. We will definitely plan to join other 'Unexpected London' experiences in our home city. read less

The alternative Notting Hill experience Savio gave us a full immersion experience of Notting Hill! I learned so much about this neighborhood that I never would have known just walking around on my own. Of... read more Savio gave us a full immersion experience of Notting Hill! I learned so much about this neighborhood that I never would have known just walking around on my own. Of course it was lovely to see the famous filming sights, and there is so much more to Notting Hill than that. Savio showed us so many hidden gems. He played a thoughtfully curated soundtrack throughout the walk, and he provided tons of interesting anecdotes the entire time. He’s clearly a neighborhood favorite. I enjoyed getting to know him and talking about music, Notting Hill, and all kinds of other interesting topics! Highly recommend any opportunity to experience London with Savio! read less

We really unexpected London!! Many thanks Savio for your enthusiasm and to let us discover London in a different way, have been a lovely experience and for sure we will join a new tour... read more Many thanks Savio for your enthusiasm and to let us discover London in a different way, have been a lovely experience and for sure we will join a new tour experience with you soon. We leave here since four years now and we always like to discover this amazing city that always surprise us. Highly recommended!! read less

Great experience All I can say about the tour is that I just loved it from beginning to end! Savio is much more than a tour guide and the experience is not... read more All I can say about the tour is that I just loved it from beginning to end! Savio is much more than a tour guide and the experience is not only informative and entertaining but also really enjoyable. He’s really passionate about the topic and takes all the time you need and even more to show you London as a local. I highly recommend it. read less

Another wonderful experience by Unexpected London I had such a great time doing the Shoreditch tour, I've decided to book this tour as well. And again, it was an absolutely Unexpected experience! Savio is very connected... read more I had such a great time doing the Shoreditch tour, I've decided to book this tour as well. And again, it was an absolutely Unexpected experience! Savio is very connected to the local community, not only knowing all the ins and outs, but really give back to the community as well. I've learned a great deal about Brixton and had a fun time visiting the Lost in Brixton bar recommended by Savio as well. Again, the personal touch, the friendly and warm approach, an eye for details, and accommodating to the guest’s needs makes this a truly wonderful experience! Highly recommended! read less

Superb Tour Savio's genuine curiosity and passion was truly palpable and it was contagious. He introduced himself as a knowledgeable friend, as opposed to a guide which felt like an enormous relief.... read more Savio's genuine curiosity and passion was truly palpable and it was contagious. He introduced himself as a knowledgeable friend, as opposed to a guide which felt like an enormous relief. The brilliantly original details, profound knowledge and diverse range of things that we looked at and the route itself all felt very organic. We didn't feel the 'stress' or bustle of the city at all. I genuinely left feeling like my eyes had been opened, that I was seeing things anew and I felt exhilarated and inspired. read less

London for a different angle This tour is for travelers who want to meet the locals, hear the stories behind the art, and feel the pulse of this vibrant London neighborhood. Savio is an engaging... read more This tour is for travelers who want to meet the locals, hear the stories behind the art, and feel the pulse of this vibrant London neighborhood. Savio is an engaging storyteller with a heart of gold. He is clearly well respected in this community and the friend you wish you had in every city you travelled. Bush Man's chicken under the stairs should not be missed! Would recommend. read less

Highlight of the weekend This was a birthday treat for my mum - who is in her mid-70s with an interest in Banksy. She was skeptical as 3 hours of walking isn’t her idea... read more This was a birthday treat for my mum - who is in her mid-70s with an interest in Banksy. She was skeptical as 3 hours of walking isn’t her idea of fun. We both had an amazing afternoon along with the other 3 guests. Savio made it so interesting and unlike any tours I’ve done before. He plays great music from his backpack, knew so many people on the tour and brought us to places we’d never have been able to find or access. He showed us amazing art on walls, doors and windows, great shops, fed us gourmet chocolate and made all of us feel like we were hanging out with a clued in friend. Our only regret is that we don’t have time to do another tour before we leave. If you are wondering whether this is a worthwhile tour it is and will exceed your expectations. Savio is a lovely person who made us all welcome and amazed us with sites. Really great afternoon. Thanks!! read less

To be done again! I had the pleasure of going on 2 tours with Savio from Unexpected London in September. I did both the Canary Wharf and the Secrets of London. Both truly unique... read more I had the pleasure of going on 2 tours with Savio from Unexpected London in September. I did both the Canary Wharf and the Secrets of London. Both truly unique showing a completely new side of London I was unaware of. Highly recommended thanks to Savio's extensive explanations which clearly denote a continuous research ranging form history to art, personal experience and the future of London. To be done again in the future as I'm sure I wouldn't be hearing the same things twice. read less

Amazing alternative experience in Notting Hill It was more than great, I liked every second of it. Was different from everything I’ve done before, it truly is an experience. I hope many people get the chance... read more It was more than great, I liked every second of it. Was different from everything I’ve done before, it truly is an experience. I hope many people get the chance to meet Savio, he was very friendly and cared about everything so I can get the most out the whole experience. I learnt a lot from Notting Hill, Bob Marley, the riots in 1958 and 1976. About so many stores that I wouldn’t know if it wasn’t for Savio. I learnt a lot, and yes, you visit the usual landmarks in there, but you get quite more than that. We talked and walked for more than 2.5 hours, was quite more but I didn’t care because everything was so interesting. Thanks Savio. read less

The best! This was an amazing experience. Savio was GREAT. No other words needed. We were Mum and 4 grown up daughters and we all enjoyed every moment. Communication also before the... read more This was an amazing experience. Savio was GREAT. No other words needed. We were Mum and 4 grown up daughters and we all enjoyed every moment. Communication also before the tour was easy and Savio!!!!!!!!! read less

Unexpected Notting Hill You will discover hidden gems like true Bansky and Dotmaster street art to the recording studios of Adele and Bob Marley. It was fun having a personal tour guide show... read more You will discover hidden gems like true Bansky and Dotmaster street art to the recording studios of Adele and Bob Marley. It was fun having a personal tour guide show me all the best antique shops, galleries and locations that were used for the movie Notting Hill. I enjoyed having my picture taken in front of the famous bookstore where Julia Roberts met Hugh Grant in the movie. It was interesting to learn about the historical significance of the population shifts that occurred through the decades while walking past the posh, brightly painted homes. Savio played music for us as we walked through the streets while sharing fun tidbits of information. A fun and engaging approach to a tour that I have never experienced before. He runs other tours and I would gladly have him show me around other parts of London as well! Bravo! read less

Best experience! We met Savio yesterday for our trip around the city and quickly realized how fortunate we were to be walking the streets with him! He showed us so many places,... read more We met Savio yesterday for our trip around the city and quickly realized how fortunate we were to be walking the streets with him! He showed us so many places, little jewels that we would never have found on our own, introducing us to the city in a way that was personal, fun, informative and music filled. Our teens loved it, even asking us to book another day with him :) I honestly felt sorry for the people we passed in mass style tours as we were ducking into only locally known coffee shops and art filled alleys. He became our first friend in London, and what a great friend he is. Highly, highly recommend, you won’t be disappointed. Thank you Savio!!! read less

Really good, very different Our own private tour. Really, really liked it. Savio is so knowledgeable and has designed such an enjoyable tour. Very different

A 'one of a kind' 'Immersive', 'Experience'!!! :-) Before turning 30, I decided to try out 30 things I have never done before. Like many Londoners, I felt there are areas in my own city of London that... read more Before turning 30, I decided to try out 30 things I have never done before. Like many Londoners, I felt there are areas in my own city of London that I’m still to discover. As my roots are from Africa! The Brixton Experience naturally grabbed my attention. I’m completely blown away, thoroughly impressed at how it was an immersive experience that is far away from ‘traditional guided tours’. You are warmly invited into the very core of this society, so you truly understand it! It’s really clever how its led by Savio (a talented, creative, energetic warm Italian, who is deeply passionate and knowledgeable about London) in a way that touches all of ‘ones senses’, from viewing the Brixton currency, street art, chocolate Museum, hearing about the Brixton history, its relation to music (with an awesome vinyl shop visit), smelling the sensational seasoned aromas of the Afro-Caribbean market food, to having a feel of native fashion fabrics. The play list of music booming out of his speakers is wonderfully thought out, tailored to the history of every stop off point. I found this shone light, adding another dimension and dynamic to the experience. lt has been years since I last visited Brixton so it was great to have Savio, how is like a friend to show you around so learn about things you never would have known . It was impressive to see how well Savio knows the locals, he introduces you to some of them and they share their stories with you, this touched me and took my understanding and appreciation of the area to a whole new level. Also, you get great content after the day as a sort of memorabilia of Brixton and the experience, from photos to music and videos. I highly recommend this! read less

Awesome Tour This is an in-depth, personal and insightful experience told through the lense of a young Italian outsider who became a Brixton beloved insider with the Afro-Carribean old school guard of... read more This is an in-depth, personal and insightful experience told through the lense of a young Italian outsider who became a Brixton beloved insider with the Afro-Carribean old school guard of the famous Brixton market. If you want to meet locals tied to the historical black experience of the market, and know about how this neighborhood came to be, then this is the tour for you. Based on a connection I made during this tour, I was invited to a little know Monday night jam session with local young musicians and experienced an intimate musical event that few people know about or even experience. After your tour, come back and do some local shopping at African centered Diversify and Refined 80. Then get a proper meal at Fish, Wings and Tings (yes, Tings . . . Not Things). Top off your experience at the record store Pure Vinyl and chat w/ the owner Claudia about old school soul and debate who laid the foundation for rap music. And purchase from the shop keepers to keep this vibrant and special community alive. When you buy, just don't run out. Take the time to share your stories and experiences with them, and they'll share there's. -L.Swann read less

Unexpected London - The Ultimate Urban Experience - HOSTED BY SAVIO LOS Taking a walk on the wild side of Savio’s Adventure was a 5 star experience! Famous London Street Art was enhanced by his storytelling and carry-along music. Savio’s selection of... read more Taking a walk on the wild side of Savio’s Adventure was a 5 star experience! Famous London Street Art was enhanced by his storytelling and carry-along music. Savio’s selection of tunes were customized according to artist, era and neighborhood – bringing to life many of the iconic musical “Greats”. Savio was super knowledgeable in all areas of both the Graffiti Masters and the up and coming wanna-bees. His style is unique and his personality radiates with each any every step along the way. A definite recommendation for a one of a kind Artistic Happening! read less

Great tour of Brixton Really enjoyed the tour with Savio. Lots of knowledge on the area especially around music. Excellent and different guided tour which was great.

The best walking tour (experience) ever! I’ve started takingmore tours in the big cities or at special attractions and I can say that Savio’s bespoke offering far exceeded my expectations. As he says himself - it’s... read more I’ve started takingmore tours in the big cities or at special attractions and I can say that Savio’s bespoke offering far exceeded my expectations. As he says himself - it’s not a tour, it’s an experience! I particularly liked the small group format and also the focus on a particular area/subject (in this case street art and music) while still covering a lot about London, architecture and general history. It was like a local friend taking you around and showing you the sights they are interested in and enthusiastic about! We never would have found these “off the beaten path” places without him in the time we had available. Also included was an amazing vintage clothing shop visit (even if you are not interested in shopping vintage - it was a fascinating local cultural experience) and a fabulous Ghanian chocolate shop - incredible. It’s a week later and I’m still thinking about all of it - definitely a London highlight. Wish we would have had time to do at least one more. read less

Really great experience I did the Shoreditch walking tour earlier this year and came back to London to do the Brixton experience (among other things). And it was so nice to meet Savio... read more I did the Shoreditch walking tour earlier this year and came back to London to do the Brixton experience (among other things). And it was so nice to meet Savio again, really like meeting a friend. That’s what this is about, making new friends and discovering a - for me - unknown area of London. Brixton is really great, and Savio knows so much about the history of the black community here. And he knows a lot of people there. So this was a big difference to the Shoreditch tour: we met some people who are pictured on the walls there. And everyone was super nice. What I also liked a lot are the different markets. We had a very good lunch after the tour. Thanks a lot for having me and my friend on this great experience! read less

Best London experience I had! This was a wonderful and unique experience and this is NOT a tour!! This is much more than a tour!! Savio is an informative and energetic “friend” who shares street... read more This was a wonderful and unique experience and this is NOT a tour!! This is much more than a tour!! Savio is an informative and energetic “friend” who shares street art, history, architecture and much more all while playing music. If you want to to something that is non typical tourist things, then this walking experience is for you!! read less

The undiscovered side of Notting Hill You will be getting a unique, intimate and interactive perspective of Notting Hill with the help of Savio. If you want to take pictures at iconic places this is not for... read more You will be getting a unique, intimate and interactive perspective of Notting Hill with the help of Savio. If you want to take pictures at iconic places this is not for you - do that a different time. This will plunge you into the history and people who shaped Portobello road and beyond. I had a wonderful time. read less

* This was a fantastic experience. I am already recommending it to other people. Savio is so engaging, informative and well, he makes it fun. I loved the use of music... read more This was a fantastic experience. I am already recommending it to other people. Savio is so engaging, informative and well, he makes it fun. I loved the use of music to show the cultural depth of the area. read less

Unexpected Notting Hill Wow! What a fabulous morning we had learning the history of this are through music and street art. Totally recommend this tour with a difference!!

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Due to Covi-19 we are not running any experience until further notice to safeguard the health and safety of our clients as well as our staff.

Top 10 Templar Buildings

As mysterious as they were formidable, the Knights Templar is an order that has intrigued historians and enthusiasts alike for centuries . The Templars were a powerful and wealthy military order during the Middle Ages, formed during the aftermath of the First Crusade. They built numerous fortresses, churches, and estates across Europe and the Middle East. Many of these Knights Templar buildings still stand, offering a tangible link to this captivating era of history.

Did the Templars Have Castles?

The Knights Templar, one of the most powerful and wealthy military orders during the Middle Ages, had an extensive network of castles across Europe and the Middle East . These structures were pivotal to the Templar operations, serving a multitude of purposes that extended beyond their military utility.

The Templars were primarily known for their role in the Crusades , holy wars waged in the medieval period with the aim of recapturing Jerusalem and the Holy Land from Muslim rule. As such, many of their castles were strategically placed in these regions to secure vital trade routes, protect pilgrims, and maintain territorial control. These fortresses, such as the iconic Krak des Chevaliers in modern-day Syria, were masterpieces of military architecture designed to withstand sieges and assaults.

However, the Templar castles were not just fortifications. They were also administrative and economic hubs, managing vast estates and resources. The Templars, renowned for their financial acumen, utilized these castles as centers for their banking operations, granting loans to kings and nobility and fostering economic growth.

The Templars also established castles in Europe. For instance, the Castle of Ponferrada in Spain served as a refuge for pilgrims, while the Convent of Christ in Tomar, Portugal, was the Order’s headquarters during the Reconquista.

Despite the dissolution of the Templar Order in the 14th century, many of their castles still stand, mute witnesses to the Order’s legacy. They continue to fascinate historians, scholars, and tourists alike with their architectural grandeur and the stories they hold within their stone walls . The Templar castles are a testament to the Order’s influence and power, strategic brilliance, and unique blend of martial and spiritual pursuits.

Are There Any Templar Temples Still Standing?

Numerous Templar structures, including temples, still standing across the globe. These surviving Templar buildings serve as tangible links to the Order’s past, offering insights into their architectural prowess, religious devotion, and military strategy.

One of the most significant is the Temple Church in London, UK. With its unique round nave, this iconic building was the spiritual hub of the Templars in England and is still used as a place of worship today. It is perhaps the most famous Templar temple still standing, known for its distinctive design inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

In Portugal, the Convent of Christ in Tomar, originally a Templar stronghold, boasts the Charola, a round temple that was the private chapel of the Templars. The complex later became the headquarters of the Order of Christ, the successor to the Templars in Portugal, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Spain, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Torres del Río, associated with the Templars due to its round design, is an intriguing site on the Way of St. James pilgrimage route.

But it’s important to note that while these structures are often referred to as “temples,” they are not temples in the classical sense. Instead, these were often churches or commanderies — a combination of monastic, military, and administrative centers — utilized by the Templar Order.

Despite centuries of change, these Templar buildings continue to capture our imagination, standing as eloquent testimony to the Order’s significant influence during the Middle Ages . They offer a fascinating journey into the past, allowing us to step into the world of the Knights Templar and appreciate their enduring legacy .

1. Temple Church, London, UK

Nestled in the heart of London, the Temple Church is one of the most iconic Templar buildings still standing. Constructed in the late 12th century, this church was the spiritual and physical home of the Templar knights in England. Its distinct round shape is characteristic of Templar architecture, a symbol of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

2. Laon Commandery, France

In the northeastern region of France, the Laon Commandery stands as a testament to the economic prowess of the Templars . This surviving Templar building was a significant agricultural center, managing vast estates of vineyards and farms. Today, it offers a rare glimpse into the non-military aspects of the Templar Order.

3. Convent of Christ, Tomar, Portugal

The Convent of Christ in Tomar, Portugal, was the headquarters of the Knights Templar during the Reconquista — the period in which Christian kingdoms retook the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rulers. This magnificent fortress-church complex, perched atop a hill, is an enduring symbol of the Order’s religious and military might.

4. Castle of Ponferrada, Spain

Spain’s Castle of Ponferrada is one of the most significant surviving Templar buildings . It served as a military outpost and a place of rest for pilgrims on the Way of St. James. Despite the many additions and renovations over the centuries, the Templars’ influence can still be seen in its architecture.

5. Temple Mount, Jerusalem, Israel

The Temple Mount in Jerusalem was the ultimate aspiration of the Templars. Although no Templar buildings still stand, the mount’s significance cannot be overstated. It was the reputed location of the Temple of Solomon, from which the Templars derived their name and symbolism . The Al-Aqsa Mosque currently standing on the site was once the Templar headquarters.

6. Fortress of Tomar, Portugal

Another illustrious testament to the Templar Order’s might is the Fortress of Tomar. This building is home to the Charola, a round temple that was the private oratory of the knights . The fortress later evolved into the Convent of Christ, incorporating different architectural styles reflecting various periods of history.

7. Cressac Commandery, France

The Cressac Commandery, located in southwestern France, represents the Templars’ expertise in estate management. This agricultural hub, composed of barns, storerooms, and housing, paints a picture of the Templar Order beyond its military might, shedding light on its socioeconomic significance.

8. Templar Castle of Almourol, Portugal

The Templar Castle of Almourol, seemingly floating on a tiny islet in the Tagus River, Portugal, is a marvel of medieval architecture . Its isolated location reflects the strategic brilliance of the Templars. Today, this surviving Templar building is accessible only by boat, adding an aura of mystique.

9. Saint Bernard de Clairvaux Church, Miami, USA

The Saint Bernard de Clairvaux Church, now in Miami, USA, is a unique example of a Templar building. Originally the Monastery of Sacramenia in Spain, it was purchased by a businessman, disassembled, and transported to the US in the 20th century. This transplanted edifice provides an unexpected but intriguing piece of Templar history on American soil.

10. Templar Tunnel, Acre, Israel

Finally, while not a building, the Templar Tunnel in Acre, Israel, offers an immersive experience of Templar history. This underground passage, stretching from the fortress to the port, was crucial for the Templars’ swift and secure transport of goods and people.

What Is the Most Famous Templar Castle?

The Castle of Ponferrada in Spain is one of the most famous and significant Templar castles in the world. Strategically situated on the Way of St. James, a pilgrimage route to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, this grand fortress represents the confluence of military, architectural, and spiritual history.

The castle, originally built by the Celts, was taken over by the Knights Templar in the 12th century. They expanded and fortified the structure to safeguard the pilgrims journeying across the dangerous route. The castle’s formidable stone walls and turrets are emblematic of Templar military architecture , designed to withstand the most vigorous assaults.

With an area of over 16,000 square meters, the Castle of Ponferrada is impressive both in its scale and design. Its iconic round Templar keep, solid fortifications, and moat illustrate the quintessential traits of medieval fortresses. Yet it stands apart due to its distinctive Templar influence — the intricate architectural details underscore the unique combination of religious fervor and military might that characterized the Templar Order.

Despite renovations and additions over the centuries, the castle has retained its inherent Templar identity . Today, it houses a Templar library and the Ponferrada Investigation and Study Center, making it a hub for scholars and enthusiasts interested in delving into Templar history.

The Castle of Ponferrada, thus, continues to live up to its reputation as one of the most famous Templar castles. It serves as a tangible reminder of the Order’s profound influence on the socio-political landscape during the Middle Ages . The castle’s enduring grandeur and historical importance make it an unforgettable destination for those eager to explore the mysterious world of the Knights Templar .

Knights Templar Sites in England

The Knights Templar, renowned for their martial and spiritual pursuits during the Middle Ages , established several significant sites throughout England. Many of these sites remain standing today, providing invaluable insights into the Templar Order’s activities and influence in the region.

Arguably the most famous of these is the Temple Church in London. Originally constructed in the 12th century, this church was the English headquarters of the Templar Order. The distinct round nave, modeled after the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, is characteristic of Templar architecture. Today, this iconic church stands as a testament to the Order’s religious devotion and architectural sophistication.

The city of Bristol hosts the Temple Church, or Holy Cross Church, now a picturesque ruin that was once a prominent Templar church. Its signature feature is its leaning tower, which gives the site a unique charm and character.

In Hertfordshire, the Temple Dinsley manor house was another significant Templar site. This Templar preceptory managed a large estate, providing income for the Order’s activities in the Holy Land. Although the original Templar structure no longer exists , a mansion built on the same site still bears the Templar name.

While not conclusively linked to the Templars, Royston Cave in Hertfordshire is often associated with the Order due to its array of medieval carvings, many of which resemble Templar symbols. This man-made cave offers a unique, immersive experience for those interested in Templar history.

Finally, Cressing Temple in Essex was one of England’s earliest and largest Templar estates. Although no Templar buildings survive, the site is home to two of the oldest timber barns in England, dating back to the 13th century.

These sites, embedded in the English landscape, are enduring reminders of the Templars’ significant role in England’s medieval history . They offer glimpses into the Order’s religious fervor, economic prowess, and architectural expertise, making them must-visit locations for anyone intrigued by the enigmatic Knights Templar .

Knights Templar Sites in Scotland

Scotland is a land rich in history, with its scenic landscapes dotted with numerous historical sites linked to the enigmatic Knights Templar . Despite their dissolution in the 14th century, their Scottish legacy endures in the form of various places and artifacts that continue to captivate historians and enthusiasts alike.

One of the most prominent of these is the Temple Church in Midlothian. This 12th-century church is a remarkable example of Templar architecture and was the heart of the Templar community in Scotland . Its distinct round shape, typical of Templar churches , symbolizes the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

A few miles south of the city of Aberdeen lies the ancient Templar site of Maryculter. It was home to a preceptory – a Templar community that combined the functions of a monastery and farm. Today, while the original Templar buildings no longer exist, the Maryculter House Hotel stands on this historic site, offering guests a unique connection to Scotland’s Templar past.

While not a Templar building, Rosslyn Chapel is frequently associated with the Knights Templar due to its intricate carvings and symbols that are similar to Templar motifs. This 15th-century chapel, made famous by Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code,” has sparked many theories about a possible connection between the Templars and the Sinclair family, who built the chapel.

The town of Temple, Midlothian, is believed to have been a significant Templar command center. The village’s name is a homage to the Knights Templar, and the remains of the Old Templar Hall can still be seen.

From awe-inspiring churches to picturesque ruins, Scotland’s Templar sites provide a tangible link to a time of chivalry and mystery. These historic locales serve as a reminder of the far-reaching influence of the Knights Templar , resonating with the echoes of a past shrouded in intrigue and fascination.

Bottom Line

These top 10 Templar buildings offer a fascinating journey through the Order’s history . Despite the passage of centuries, their enduring structures remind us of the Knights Templar’s indomitable spirit and significant role in shaping world history . Each surviving Templar building presents a piece of the puzzle, contributing to a richer understanding of this mysterious Order. These structures stand as silent yet eloquent witnesses to the Templars’ power, wealth, spirituality, and ambition. Their stone and mortar whisper tales of chivalry, courage, faith, and intrigue, stories that continue to captivate our imagination to this day.

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Unveiling Templar Secrets: England's Top 10 Sites to Unearth the
Here are the top 10 sites in England to uncover the mysteries of this legendary order 1. Temple Church, London. Nestled in the heart of London, the Temple Church is the iconic home of the Knights Templar in England. Marvel at the unique round design and effigies that pay homage to these knightly defenders. Official Site
List of Knights Templar sites
6.1 England. 6.2 Scotland. 6.3 Wales. 7 Ireland. 8 Croatia. 9 Italy. 10 Other countries. 11 See also. 12 References. Toggle the table of contents. List of Knights Templar sites. ... was the first castle of the Knights Templar. Old town of Tomar, including the Castle, the Convent of the Order of Christ and the Church of Santa Maria do Olival;
Templar Buildings In England You Must Visit
Steeped in mystery and intrigue, the Knights Templar was a medieval military order that played a crucial role in the Crusades.They left a significant mark on history and the architecture of the places they inhabited. England, in particular, is home to several incredible Templar structures, a testimony to the order's powerful presence in the 12th and 13th centuries.
A secret site for the Knights Templar?
Daniel Stables. Despite a lack of proof, many people believe that Royston Cave was an underground hiding place for the Knights Templar (Credit: Daniel Stables) Professor Helen Nicholson, medieval ...
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The Knights Templar was born and they were soon world-renowned for their courage. "They were a very disciplined fighting force - and hugely self-sacrificial. If there was a disaster in battle ...
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Templars being burned at the stake. King Edward I (1239-1307) had accorded the Knights Templar a slighter role in public affairs, financial issues often being handled by Italian merchants and diplomacy by mendicant orders.Indeed, Edward I raided the treasury in 1283. When Philip IV, King of France suppressed the order in 1307, King Edward II of England at first refused to believe the ...
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Temple Manor
Address: Knight Road, Strood, Rochester, Kent, ME2 2AH. Before You Go. Temple Manor was built in the 13th century by the Knights Templar, a military and religious order founded during the Crusades. Located to the west of the River Medway, the hall was designed to provide lodging for dignitaries travelling between Dover and London.
Home Page [osmth-england.org]
The Grand Priory of England of the Knights Templar is an integral part of an International Christian Chivalric Order, that can trace its heritage back over 900 years. We are the only officially recognised Grand Priory of the Order in and for England. We are part of a worldwide network of Knights Templar organisations within OSMTH actively ...
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Visit Adventures. Trips Highlight. South ... this rare 13th-century tower once bore witness to one of England's richest Knights Templar preceptories, ... and the Knights Hospitaller took its place.
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Enter the English headquarters of the Knights Templar in the 13th Century and immerse yourself in its varied history. Temple Church was built in the late 12th Century between Fleet Street and the River Thames by the Knights Templar as their order expanded in numbers and influence. The power of the order influenced its surrounds - as seen in the ...
Visit Temple Church in London
The Round Tower is the original Knights Templar part from 860 years ago, built around sixty years after the Crusaders first captured Jerusalem. The military monks made their money protecting all the pilgrims who were travelling to the Holy Land, but unfortunately once the Crusades came to an end their earnings dried up and the French king took ...
Map of Knights Templar Sites
Map of Knights Templar Sites. Click here (or the picture below) for a map of known Knights Templar sites within the UK & Ireland. If we've missed any please let us know in the comments and we'll add it on. There seems to be very little Templar activity within Wales, so we'd be particularly interested in knowing more about potential Templar ...
History of Knights Templar Church, Dover
The Knights Templar were a military and religious order founded in the 12th century, during the Crusades, to protect pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land and to defend the holy places there. They became rich and powerful but increasingly unpopular, and the order was eventually suppressed in 1312. The port of Dover, the chief departure point for ...
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Welcome to the Grand Priory of Knights Templar in the UK. We are an interdenominational association of active Christians, with both clergy and lay members from all walks of life. Our Order follows the highest chivalric ideals of the medieval Order of Knights Templar which was founded by Hugh de Payens in 1119, but we make no claims to be direct ...
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This is perhaps the easiest Templar site to visit and one of the most rewarding. ... This is a great place to enjoy being a Knight Templar. Temple Church. Temple. London EC4Y 7BB. Tel: 44 (0) 20 7353 3470. ... 20 7831 9811. www.ugle.org.uk. Sir Knight Sanford Holst is the author of Sworn in Secret: Freemasonry and the Knights Templar. He is an ...
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Experience the power of hidden energy designs, mediaeval architecture, and discover old rites and rituals some of which are being used by secret societies today. Visit Avebury and the Templar Keys. If you would like to submit information about your own Templar tour, please connect with the Knights Templar Vault on FaceBook and send a message ...
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The Knights Templar are simultaneously one of the most famous and history's most mysterious military organisations. Founded in 1119, the Order of Solomon's Temple - as they were originally known - was headquartered on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. But their shadowy reach spread over two centuries across the entire Christian world ...
London Templars & Bloomsbury History
A hidden world right in the heart of London, our London Templars and Bloomsbury tour is a truly immersive alternative walk that explores what was once the stronghold of the Knights Templars all the way to Bloomsbury, London's literary capital. Ideal for lovers of history, architecture and secret routes, you will discover a completely new ...
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TEMPLAR HOTSPOT ONE: Edessa. This city is now in modern Turkey - which is appropriate as it was the Seljuk Turks who drove the crusaders out of Edessa on Christmas Day in 1144. The city had been the capital of the County of Edessa, one of the first Christian kingdoms established after the First Crusade. The unsuccessful defence of the city ...
Top 10 Templar Buildings
Knights Templar Sites in England. The Knights Templar, renowned for their martial and spiritual pursuits during the Middle Ages, established several significant sites throughout England. Many of these sites remain standing today, providing invaluable insights into the Templar Order's activities and influence in the region.