Witchcraft, Portals and Secret Societies in Occult London

London’s occult history offers a captivating journey through tales of witchcraft, portals, and secret societies. This tour explores the lesser-known aspects of the city’s dark esoteric heritage, visiting sites tied to the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, the infamous necromantic rituals of Eliphas Levi, and the mysterious legends surrounding landmarks like Cleopatra’s Needle and the Trafalgar Square lions. Led by a private guide, visitors uncover hidden knowledge and explore the secrets that have long captivated the imagination of those curious about London’s occult underbelly.

Key Points

• This tour explores the lesser-known occult history of London, including visits to sites associated with secret societies, necromancy, and ancient mysteries.
• Participants will learn about the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a prominent 19th-century occult group, and the influential occultist Eliphas Levi.
• The tour showcases landmarks with dark legends, such as Cleopatra’s Needle and the Trafalgar Square lions, believed to be gateways to occult realms.
• Guides share insider knowledge and stories about London’s rich occult heritage, enhancing the discovery of hidden history and mysteries.
• The tour is designed for both occult enthusiasts and the curious, offering a unique opportunity to take in the city’s esoteric underbelly.

Tour Overview

The tour’s allure lies in its ability to unveil the lesser-known facets of London’s esoteric landscape. Titled "Witchcraft, Portals and Secret Societies in Occult London," the private walking tour explores the city’s occult underbelly.

Boasting a 4.5-star rating from 19 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, the tour starts at $360.70 and offers a glimpse into secret societies and esoteric arts. Guests will visit significant sites like St. James’s Palace, the oldest occult bookshop, and Cleopatra’s Needle, learning about the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and the French occultist Eliphas Levi.

The moderate physical activity and wheelchair accessibility make this tour accessible to a range of enthusiasts seeking to uncover London’s occult history.

Highlights of the Tour

Exploring lesser-known aspects of London, the tour focuses on uncovering the city’s secret societies and esoteric arts.

Visitors will visit significant sites like St. James’s Palace, the oldest occult bookshop, and Cleopatra’s Needle, learning about the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and the French occultist Eliphas Levi.

The tour also delves into dark stories and landmarks often overlooked by other tours, such as the notorious "Suicide Circle" on Pall Mall and the necromancy site at the Charing Cross Hotel.

With a private guide, guests can discover the hidden knowledge and mysteries that lie within the city’s streets.

Significant Sites Visited

During the tour, guests visit several significant sites in London that shed light on the city’s occult history.

The tour explores St. James’s Palace, the location of the first temple for magical arts.

Further along, the group visits the oldest occult bookshop, where they uncover hidden knowledge and stories.

Finally, the tour stops at Cleopatra’s Needle, a landmark shrouded in dark legends.

The tour showcases:

• The first temple for magical arts
• The oldest occult bookshop
• Cleopatra’s Needle and its dark legends

The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn

One prominent group discussed on the tour is the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a 19th-century occult society that played a significant role in London’s esoteric history.

Founded in 1888, the Golden Dawn was a secretive organization that practiced ceremonial magic and studied the occult. Its members included renowned figures like the poet William Butler Yeats and the infamous occultist Aleister Crowley.

The order’s rituals and teachings, which drew from Hermeticism, Kabbalah, and other esoteric traditions, were said to grant initiates access to hidden spiritual realms and powers.

Though the Golden Dawn eventually dissolved, its legacy endures as a testament to London’s rich occult heritage.

Eliphas Levi and Necromancy

Steeped in the mysteries of the occult, the renowned French occultist Eliphas Levi was closely associated with the Charing Cross Hotel in London.

It was here, in 1854, that Levi famously conducted a necromantic ritual, summoning the spirit of the legendary magician Apollonius of Tyana.

According to accounts, Levi’s dramatic invocation conjured a ghostly apparition, a feat that cemented his reputation as a master of the arcane arts.

• Levi’s occult practices were deeply rooted in the Hermetic tradition, which blended Neoplatonism, Gnosticism, and Kabbalah.

• His influential work, "Dogme et Rituel de la Haute Magie," became a seminal text in the Western esoteric canon.

• The Charing Cross Hotel, with its dark history and proximity to mystical sites, provided the perfect setting for Levi’s necromantic experiments.

Legends of Cleopatra’s Needle

Amidst the bustling Trafalgar Square, Cleopatra’s Needle stands as a silent witness to the mysteries of the ancient world. Shrouded in legends, this obelisk has captivated the imagination of visitors for centuries. Some believe it harbors dark energies, while others whisper of hidden portals to the realms of the occult.

Myths	Legends
The obelisk is cursed, bringing misfortune to those who disturb it	The obelisk is a gateway to the afterlife, allowing communion with the dead
The obelisk is a channel for dark forces, unleashing supernatural entities	The obelisk holds the key to ancient Egyptian secrets, waiting to be unlocked

Exploring Cleopatra’s Needle is a profound and unsettling experience, offering a tantalizing glimpse into London’s occult underbelly.

Secrets of the Trafalgar Lions

Towering above Trafalgar Square, the iconic Trafalgar Lions have long captivated visitors with their alluring mystery.

Crafted by the renowned English sculptor Sir Edwin Landseer, these bronzed beasts conceal occult secrets that few are privy to.

According to urban legends, the lions are:

• Guarding a hidden entrance to the underground network of tunnels beneath the square
• Imbued with the power to come alive at night, roaming the streets in search of unsuspecting prey
• Connected to the arcane rituals of secret societies that have long operated in the shadows of London

These tales of the Trafalgar Lions have sparked the imagination of the occult-curious, drawing them to uncover the hidden truths behind these majestic statues.

Tour Logistics and Accessibility

The tour begins at St. James’s Palace, Marlborough Rd, London SW1A 1BQ, UK and ends at Tottenham Court Road, Tottenham Ct Rd, London.

This private tour is wheelchair accessible, though a moderate level of physical fitness is required due to the walking component.

The tour group size is limited to your party only, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Whether you’re an occult enthusiast or simply curious about London’s hidden history, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the city’s esoteric sites and uncover their dark legends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Guide an Expert in the Occult and Witchcraft?

Based on the tour overview, the guide appears to be an expert in the occult and witchcraft. The tour focuses on lesser-known occult aspects of London and the guide’s knowledge is praised by positive guest reviews.

What Precautions Are Taken for the Participants’ Safety?

The tour focuses on safety precautions, including ensuring accessibility and moderate physical fitness requirements. The private group format also allows the guide to tailor the experience for each party’s needs and comfort level.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s recommended for participants aged 16 and above. The tour involves a substantial amount of walking, so younger children may struggle with the physical activity.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Interests?

The tour can be customized to individual interests. Guests can discuss their specific occult or esoteric interests with the guide, who’ll tailor the experience accordingly. The tour’s flexible nature allows it to cater to a range of personal preferences.

What Photographic Opportunities Are Available During the Tour?

The tour offers many photographic opportunities along the way, allowing guests to capture the historic architecture, landmarks, and other intriguing sights related to London’s occult history. Guides encourage guests to take photos throughout the experience.

Sum Up

This captivating tour uncovers London’s lesser-known occult history. Visitors will explore the secrets of influential secret societies, esoteric arts, and dark legends. From the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn to the necromancy rituals of Eliphas Levi, the tour transports participants to the shadows of the past. Whether a seasoned enthusiast or the simply curious, this immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to discover the enigmatic side of the city.