Hidden away around the corner from St Paul’s Cathedral is Stationers’ Hall, one of the largest and most opulent of the City of London’s livery halls, and they hold public tours.

In addition to tours for groups, it’s also one of only two* Livery Halls in London that offer tours to the general public.

Inside, there are lots of rich carpets and paintings, and a series of large meeting rooms that once served to manage the printing monopolies. The main star of the hall is, well, the hall itself, with massive stained-glass windows and wood panelling. The main hall dates from just after the Great Fire of London, making it a shade over 350 years old.

The next tour is on Monday 6th July at 11am, costs £22.38 and can be booked from here.

Photography is allowed during the tours.

Tours end with tea and biscuits in one of the main rooms.

The hall is a short walk from St Paul’s Cathedral. Look for the wedding dress seller on Ave Maria Lane, and it’s through the archway.

*Goldsmiths’ Hall