The City Itinerary: A Gentleman’s Afternoon in the Square Mile & The Square Mile: Where Heritage Meets the Modern Gentleman
1. A Legacy of Grooming: The Barber-Surgeons of the City
The City of London is the literal birthplace of the professional barber.
Did you know that since 1308, the Worshipful Company of Barbers has been based right here in the Square Mile? Long before the modern fade, 'Barber-Surgeons' operated near Monkwell Street, blending grooming with medicine. It is still a prominent Livery Company today.
At House of Thrix, we carry that 700-year-old torch. While we no longer perform surgeries, we maintain the same precision and standard of excellence that the City’s guilds have demanded for centuries.
2. Hidden History: Roman Ruins & Victorian Markets
Our neighborhood is a living museum. From the remains of the Roman London Wall to the stunning Victorian architecture of Leadenhall Market (just a short walk from our chairs), the City is a blend of grit and grandeur."
A heritage haircut is designed to look as good against the backdrop of a glass skyscraper like The Gherkin as it does in a traditional wood-paneled pub on Fleet Street."
3. City Picks: The Modern Gentleman’s Circuit
After your cut, we recommend heading to The Ned for a drink or catching the sunset at a rooftop bar near Monument. The City isn't just for 9-to-5 anymore; it’s a destination for style.
We ensure your hair is 'event-ready' for any of the City’s premier spots.
ITINERARY
The City of London is more than a financial hub; it is a landscape of resilience and refined taste. Located at 20 Fish Street Hill, House of Thrix is the perfect starting point for your City journey. After your grooming session at The House of Thrix, we recommend this curated journey through the historic and modern highlights of our neighborhood.
1. The Heritage Start: The House of Thrix & The Monument
Start your afternoon in our chair at 20 Fish Street Hill. While you receive a heritage cut or a precision shave, look out the window at The Monument to the Great Fire of London. This 202ft Portland stone column, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, stands exactly 202 feet from where the fire began in Pudding Lane in 1666. It represents the City rising from the ashes—much like the feeling of stepping out with a fresh, sharp look.
2. Three Historic Sites to Explore
The Monument Viewing Platform: If you’re feeling athletic after your cut, climb the 311 spiral steps for one of the most historic 360-degree views of the London skyline.
Leadenhall Market: A 5-minute walk away. This breathtaking Victorian covered market stands on the site of the original Roman forum. It’s the perfect place to admire the architecture that inspired Diagon Alley.
The Tower of London: Head south toward the river to see the medieval fortress that has guarded the City for nearly a millennium. London Bridge is also a stone’s throw away from our Luxury Barbershop too!
3. Afternoon Tea: Where Sophistication Meets the City
The Ned (Millie’s Lounge): Located in the grand former Midland Bank building, this is the ultimate "power" afternoon tea spot. The high ceilings and live jazz create an atmosphere of old-world luxury that perfectly matches a fresh heritage haircut.
The Walrus and The Carpenter: If you prefer a "liquid tea," this historic pub is a stone’s throw from us. Named after the Lewis Carroll poem, it’s a legendary City institution where you can enjoy a quiet pint in the shadow of the Monument.
Fortnum & Mason: Speaks for itself. Their teas are exceptional, the food is bottomless and the decor is iconic.
4. Three Modern Bars for the Evening
The Sky Garden: Located at the top of the "Walkie Talkie" building (20 Fenchurch St). It offers a lush, modern garden setting with an incredible view back down toward our shop and the river.
Simmons Monument: For a more high-energy, modern vibe, this neon-drenched cocktail bar is right on our doorstep and famous for the best happy hour in the Square Mile.
Wagtail Rooftop: A sophisticated rooftop bar near Monument station that offers 360-degree views, perfect for showing off a sharp new profile as the sun sets over the Thames.
5. Shopping for the Modern Gentleman
The Square Mile offers some of the most exclusive menswear shopping in the world. After your haircut, walk to these nearby destinations to complete your look:
Barbour at Leadenhall Market: Just a 5-minute walk from our shop, this is the perfect place to pick up a classic wax jacket or rugged knitwear. Since your heritage haircut is designed to match this aesthetic, visiting the Barbour store in the iconic Victorian market is a natural next step.
The Royal Exchange: Home to luxury brands like Crockett & Jones for handmade English shoes and Fortnum & Mason for gifts. This historic building is the "Gold Standard" for City shopping.
Bow Lane: Often called the "Savile Row of the City," Bow Lane is packed with independent tailors and high-end shoe shops. It’s the go-to spot for the "suited and booted" City professional.
One New Change: For a more modern selection, head toward St. Paul’s to find brands like Hackett London and BOSS, offering sharp tailoring that complements a fresh executive taper.
Broadgate Central: this is mire of a modern day district. It has a cluster of notable brands like Charbonnel et Walker, Luca Faloni, Reiss, Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, Neom and the list goes on… Special mention to Eataly which sits on the edge of the district and Lis Mochis for a Mexican Japanese fusion of sharing plates which will stimulate your taste buds.
