From a Roman amphitheatre to stylish dining in the sky, the Square Mile has all the ingredients for a brilliant winter break, says Sarah Williams-Robbins, aka Mrs Londoner.

"What's to day, my fine fellow?” said Scrooge. “Today?” replied the boy. “Why, Christmas Day!"

The character of Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol is one of the most memorable and famous in literary history. The setting of this Charles Dickens morality tale was the City of London, the financial and historic heart of our capital.

The City often needs explanation, even to locals. It’s the City within a city. The ‘Square Mile’, as it is known, is the original London - Londinium - founded by the Romans almost 2,000 years ago. It has its own local government, a Lord Mayor, a separate police force and ancient customs.

Many of the twisting streets and ancient alleys described by Dickens, survive to this day, which makes The City of London so atmospheric. Striking modern architecture stands cheek-by-jowl with listed monuments and open spaces. Yet, it is often overlooked by tourists and Londoners alike, who automatically orient themselves to the West End. But to do so misses some of the most significant and fascinating areas of our capital.

So, in a bid to lure you in, here are some suggestions for a memorable day in the ‘Square Mile’ this winter.

Marvellous markets

Fabulous Leadenhall Market at night

Leadenhall Market is a must. It’s a marvellous example of Victorian design, with its brightly-coloured ironwork and ornate glazed tiles, topped with a glass canopy to keep you dry on even the wettest of days. Londoners have been trading on this spot since the Romans built their forum here. The bustling space previously housed a poultry market - you can still see the hooks. It’s here that Scrooge’s boy came to purchase the prize Christmas turkey. Now the market is home to a variety of boutiques and eateries, including an excellent cheese and wine shop and an old fashioned ‘boozer’. And, it’s the film location of Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Magic!

There is also the imposing Royal Exchange, with its grand classical columns, in the prime location next to the Bank of England. Originally built in the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, the Exchange has evolved from a centre for merchant traders, to a glamorous shopping destination. Sip a glass of bubbly at Fortnum’s champagne bar while you decide which luxury timepiece should adorn your wrist. Or window-shop and enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere, blending history, architecture, and high-end retail in a stunning building.

Take me to the river

Queenhithe Mosaic

For centuries, the River Thames was a bustling port, with ships arriving from all corners of the globe. Nowadays it’s only river cruises and police boats on the water. But on a crisp winter’s day, enjoy a bracing walk along this historic waterfront. Stop at Queenhithe (‘hythe’ being the Anglo Saxon word for a small port), the only beach in the City. It is thought to be the last surviving Anglo Saxon dock in the world. The fascinating story of London’s 2,000 year history is told in an epic 30 metre long mosaic. After your stroll, you will have earned a pint and lunch in one of the many public house (pubs) en route. The Banker, under Cannon Street Bridge, offers a commanding view of the Thames.

Roman holiday

Guildhall Yard spanning 2,000 years of history

The City is home to both world-famous art and world-heritage monuments. The Guildhall Art Gallery & Museum describes itself as ‘The City’s best-kept secret’. Well, a secret no more! Free to enter, and open every day, you can marvel at the Pre-Raphaelite painting ‘La Ghirladatta’ or ‘Garlanded Lady’, by Rossetti, the centrepiece of the Gallery which also includes works by Millais, Constable and Grayson Perry.

For fans of Roman history - or with a renewed interest with the release of Ridley Scott’s Gladiator 2 - there’s a treat in store. As you stand in Guildhall Yard, look down to notice a black circular line around its perimeter. It denotes the original site of London’s Roman amphitheatre, only discovered in the 1980s. In the Museum’s basement, you can view the amphitheatre’s remains, including what we think are animal pens and the remains of a wooden drain, perfectly preserved in the London clay. It’s a fascinating reminder of the engineering prowess of our Roman ancestors - even if the 8,000 capacity venue was the scene of execution as entertainment.

Tea in the sky

Sky high views

A perfect way to view the City, while keeping warm, is to treat yourself to afternoon tea. The British obsession with ‘having a cuppa’ should not be underestimated. While coffee shops played a key part in the history of London’s trading - and modern versions abound - there is something about the ceremony of ‘taking afternoon tea’ that gives it the sense of occasion. The City offers a wealth of venues with stunning interiors or views. Searcy’s at the famous Gherkin, is located on the 40th floor of Norman Foster & Partners’ landmark skyscraper. It certainly puts the ‘high’ into ‘high tea’.

Brilliant Baroque

The stunning dome of St Paul’s cathedral at dusk

Alternatively, head for The Reflection Garden, a wonderful tranquil spot a few yards from the grounds of St Paul’s Cathedral. Here you can enjoy a perfect end to the day, sipping a hot chocolate, while watching the sun set behind the magnificent dome of Sir Christopher Wren’s baroque masterpiece.

Author Sarah Williams-Robbins, aka Mrs Londoner, is an accredited City of London Guide, business coach, and former charity director, who loves sharing her passion for London’s history with guests. Follow her adventures on Instagram @meetmrslondoner

All images copyright: Sarah Williams-Robbins/Mrs Londoner

If you or your group would like to experience the delights of the City of London on a tailor made tour of London, England or the United Kingdom, please do contact our friendly team today.