FRENCH HISTORY TOUR IN LONDON

French History and Influence in London

Let me share with you my love for London and its French connections. I can trace the migration patterns between us back to 1066 and show you the influences of almost every century since.

On my London Black Cab tour you will see that the history of France and London is as much about ordinary people crossing the Channel and bringing with them their skills, habits and joie de vivre as it is about big political alliances or conflicts. From Huguenot weavers to current entrepreneurs, the French have always found a home in London and enriched the city with their presence.

As well as the long timeline my London Black Cab tour covers an area from Bethnal Green in East London to South Kensington in South West London.

The Norman Conquest and the Dawn of French Influence

1066 saw The Norman Conquest and the start of French in London. William, Duke of Normandy, who became William the Conqueror defeated King Harold at Hastings. After his coronation at Westminster Abbey Norman power in England was consolidated and everything changed culturally and politically. To keep his grip on London William built strongholds like the Tower of London which still stands today as a testament to Norman engineering and power. The Normans made French the language of the elite and English aristocracy and governance.

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WHAT'S THE DEAL?

From £440
Min 4 hour

Hotel or central London postcode pickup and drop-off

Price is per tour not per person (max 6 people in my cab)

Bottled water and snacks

Live commentary on board

FRENCH HISTORY IN LONDON

WE WILL COVER

The beginnings of 11th century Norman dominance can be seen at the Tower of London including the imposing White Tower built by William the Conqueror.
The ruins of various 13th century religious orders can be seen in Bermondsey and Blackfriars.
We will visit a road in Bethnal Green that was named after Valance and was once home to the Huguenots who migrated to the area in the 17th century.
We will travel the popular Embankment along the River Thames designed by an 18th century Huguenot, and once home to 13th century Carmelite Nuns.
From the poorest beginnings mentioned above to one of the most affluent areas in London, we will visit South Kensington and see chic French influence of today.

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The Huguenot Migration: Refugees Transforming London

In the late 17th century London was a refuge for thousands of Huguenots who fled religious persecution in France after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685. They settled mainly in Spitalfields and Wandsworth and brought skills in silk weaving, craftsmanship and trade. By the early 18th century the Huguenots made up about 5% of London’s population. Their entrepreneurial spirit left a lasting mark on industries like textiles and watchmaking and enriched London’s cultural fabric.

Spitalfields merchant houses in East London

A statue in Victoria Embankment Gardens London

Modern French Chic in South Kensington

Fast forward to today, French influence thrives in affluent areas like South Kensington—often dubbed “Parisian London.” This neighborhood is home to French schools like Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle, chic patisseries, and boutiques that exude Parisian elegance. Michelin-starred French restaurants dot its streets, attracting gourmands from around the world. As a black cab driver offering tours of London, I often highlight how this modern French flair reflects centuries-old ties between France and England.

Whether you’re tracing Norman castles or enjoying a croissant in South Kensington, my London Black Cab tour offers a unique journey through history and culture shaped by our neighbours across the Channel.

Pick up can be arranged from any central London hotel or tube station, and drop off anywhere in central London.

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