From any of the 10 stops around the city, hop aboard the open-top, double-decker City Sightseeing bus and sit back as you explore the twin towns of Windsor and Eton, separated by the River Thames and joined by Windsor Bridge.
On board, learn about the sights and the history of Windsor through recorded audio commentary. See the whole city on the entire loop, which takes about 45 minutes, or hop off at conveniently located stops around the city to explore at your own pace.
Visit famous Windsor Castle, the Queen's royal residence. Built in the 11th century, this is largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world. Depending on the day, you may be able to witness the Changing of the Guard parade outside the castle. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time to see this stately ceremony steeped in centuries of history – it's a quintessential English experience!
Hop off to explore Windsor Great Park, a massive deer park which served for many centuries as the private hunting ground of Windsor Castle. Now open to the public, Windsor Great Park features various recreational areas, sweeping green laws, hills, ponds and small woods dominated by ancient oak trees. Be sure to stroll down the Long Walk, an avenue of trees that runs between the park and Windsor Castle.
Crossing Windsor Bridge, spend some time in Eton. This riverside town is most famous for being the site of Eton College, a notable public institution known for educating many future politicians, judges and diplomats.
Your City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off Windsor pass is valid for 24 hours from the time of first use, so you have plenty of time to see all the sights at your leisure. The buses drop off at each of the 10 stops around the city at the end of the day.

Hop-on hop-off tour stops:

• Castle Hill - outside Windsor Castle, Central Station, RWIC
• High Street
• Castle Hill - opposite Windsor Castle
• Datchet Road - Riverside Station, St George's School, French Brothers River Cruises
• Datchet Green - Kris Cruisers
• Slough Road - opposite Eton College Main Entrance and College Chapel
• Windsor Bridge
• Slough Road - Burning Bush, Eton College
• Farm Shop
• Kings Road - The Long Walk
• Thames Street - Theatre Royal

Around 9.30am is the best time to start the tour. You will be collected either in the reception of your hotel or  at designated central London location. Start the day with an introduction to the city you will be visiting and it's surrounding areas making sure you know where you are and what is in the nearby areas.

You will be taken through the Royal Green Park making your way down to the first palace (Buckingham). Visit the outside of the palace whilst being told the history of the Royal family, what happened to the Palace during WW2, who lives there, has anyone broken in before, what do the servants do have all these questions answered.

Next march on to St James's palace, this is the greatest place to watch the Changing of the Guard. Your guide shall make sure you get the perfect view, great photos and even march a long side the Guards.

After watching this century old tradition stroll through one of the most beautiful parks discovering fauna/flora and wildlife as you make our way to the political and social heart of London. Here you will visit the exteriors of some of the most iconic buildings in the world (Big Ben, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey).

After this great photo stop start making your way towards Trafalgar Square passing by the Winston Churchill War Room, The Horse Guard Parade eventually arriving to where the tour will end, surrounded with lively neighbourhoods with great pubs, restaurants and museums. Your guide will be very happy to give you recommendations for places to eat and to sip a traditional British beer.

Viator Exclusive: Early Access to Stonehenge with a Specialist Guide and Bath and Windsor Visit (11 Hours)Your exclusive tour to Stonehenge, led by a specialist guide, starts with early-morning departure from London so you can beat the crowds at the UNESCO World Heritage site. Following the 2.5-hour drive to the Salisbury Plain, an open plateau in southern England where the protected monoliths are situated, you’ll follow your guide along a perimeter path around the ancient stone circle.
Hear about the speculation of Stonehenge's astronomical significance as you contemplate the transport of the 40-ton bluestone rocks, located in the inner circle.
Following your visit to Stonehenge, continue to Windsor Castle, one of Queen Elizabeth II's official residences. Head inside with your guide and learn about the British Royal Family and the castle’s history as you explore the State Apartments and other public rooms.
Next, travel to to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath. You may choose to visit the Roman Baths — said to be Ancient Rome's best-preserved public baths (own expense). Alternatively, enjoy time at your leisure to explore the city independently. Your day trip then concludes back in central London.
Please note: There’ll be an opportunity to break for lunch (own expense) in Windsor or Bath.
Viator Exclusive: Small-Group London Sightseeing Tour Including Guided British Museum Visit, St Paul's Cathedral and Tower of London (9.5 Hours)On another day of your vacation, meet your guide at Temple Underground Station in London, then board a comfortable minivan and head to St Paul’s Cathedral. On arrival, show your pre-booked ticket or pay your entrance fee (depending on the option selected), and then explore the 17th-century cathedral on an independent, audio-guided tour.
After roughly 1.5 hours, join back up with your guide and continue to by minivan to Trafalgar Square before setting off on foot to Buckingham Palace. See Horse Guards Parade and other royal residences, and then watch the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony on the Mall.
Next, after a break for lunch (own expense) continue to the infamous Tower of London. Opt to join a complimentary tour by one of the Beefeater guards (time permitting), then enjoy time at your leisure to see the Crown Jewels, White Tower, Traitor's Gate and other highlights.
Make your final stop of the day at the British Museum. Your guide will help you navigate more easily around the vast museum and shed light on prestigious exhibits such as the Rosetta Stone. When you're done for the day, simply stroll to the nearest tube stop where you can find your way back to your accommodation.
Viator Exclusives combine unique experiences and great deals — from traditional tours to once-in-a-lifetime experiences — and are not available from other 3rd-party online sellers.

Meet your guide at Temple Underground Station in London, then board a comfortable minivan and head to St Paul’s Cathedral. On arrival, show your pre-booked ticket or pay your entrance fee (depending on the option selected), and then explore the 17th-century cathedral on an independent, audio-guided tour. Take in the skyline from the dome and descend to the crypt to see the tombs of famous British figures like Sir Winston Churchill.

After roughly 1.5 hours, join back up with your guide and continue to the Mall for the Changing of the Guard. Along the way, pass showstopper sights like 10 Downing Street, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and learn more about London's history. Hop out of your minivan in Trafalgar Square and set off on foot to Buckingham Palace. See Horse Guards Parade and other royal residences, then marvel at the pageantry of the world-famous ceremony as you march alongside the guards on the Mall.

Continue by minivan to the Tower of London, a majestic castle first built in the 11th century, stopping off on route for lunch (own expense). On arrival, opt to join a complimentary tour by one of the Beefeater guards to learn more about the tower's role in British history. Then, enjoy time at your leisure to see the Crown Jewels, White Tower, Traitor's Gate and other highlights. Alternatively, if you've not upgraded to include entrance fees, make the most of free time to explore the City of London at your own pace. Perhaps stroll along the banks of the Thames River or visit nearby Tower Bridge (own expense).

Make your final stop of the day at the British Museum, which boast the largest collection of antiquities in the world, spanning two million years. Your guide helps you navigate more easily around the vast museum and sheds light on prestigious exhibits such as the Rosetta Stone. If there's any area of history you're particularly interested in, let your guide know so your visit can be tailored to suit your interests.
When the time comes, stroll to the nearest tube stop and ask for directions on how to get back to your accommodation, if required.
Viator Exclusives combine unique experiences and great deals — from traditional tours to once-in-a-lifetime experiences — and are not available from other 3rd-party online sellers.

Start your day with pickup at the Victoria Coach Station in central London, and then travel by air-conditioned coach to St. Paul's Cathedral. Spend the morning there, then travel to Westminster Abbey where Prince William married Kate Middleton in a lavish royal wedding ceremony in 2011. Pose for photos outside the Gothic crowd pleaser. Head to the Mall outside Buckingham Palace to watch the legendary Changing of the Guard ceremony. Accompanied by a military band, soldiers from the Queen’s Foot Guard march in time to drumbeats, performing a ceremonial ritual that dates back centuries.

Move on to the Tower of London, a former prison, fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit sites like Traitor’s Gate, the Torture Exhibition and, of course, the glittering Crown Jewels – a collection of irreplaceable and historic items. Spend some free time here exploring and eating lunch.

Hop aboard a sightseeing boat for a short trip down the River Thames. Cruise down the river, looking out for the top London attractions such as  Shakespeare’s Globe, and then step out onto dry land.

Finish your tour back at the start point or alternatively, upgrade to finish on a high note with one of two optional activities. Options include an afternoon tea on the Thames River or a must-do London Eye flight, for picture-perfect views over the capital. Both activities include transport to the attraction, but no transport back.

Please note: If your tour falls on a date when the Changing of the Guard ceremony is not taking place, you will stop at Buckingham Palace for photos

Board your sightseeing cruise boat at Tower Pier on London’s Thames River, and then take a seat at your window-side table. From the comfort of your seat, gaze out at the sights as you start cruising west into the heart of London.

Following a round-trip route to Westminster, your cruise takes in several iconic London attractions and landmarks. Pass the famous Tower of London, juxtaposed against the modern buildings of the city’s Square Mile, and avert your gaze southward to admire a medley of the capital’s big-name sights. Look to the skyline to see the Shard — Western Europe’s tallest building — and see street performers and tourists strolling down the vibrant South Bank.

As you pass further attractions such as Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, take time to savor your afternoon tea. Beautifully presented on quintessentially English cake stands, your lavish spread consists of scones with clotted cream and jam, dainty finger sandwiches and a selection of moreish cakes. A good British pot of tea is also included and, if you would like to make your meal that little bit more special, ask the waiting staff for a glass of Champagne (own expense). Any additional drinks can be purchased from the onboard bar.

After 1.5 hours on the Thames River, hop back onto dry land back at Tower Pier where your cruise ends.

London Eye
The London Eye is one of the world's tallest observation wheels, with views over London from more than 442 feet (135 meters) in the air. Situated on the banks of the River Thames, it offers unrivalled panoramic vistas over London.

Since opening at the turn of the century, the London Eye has become an iconic landmark, up there with Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the Tower of London. It has been used as a backdrop in countless films and is loved by Britons and visitors alike.

Thames River Sightseeing Cruise
The best way to see the sights and splendor of this great city is from the deck of a boat. Aboard the sightseeing cruise, you'll travel in comfort and style past London's world-famous landmarks. The boats have open upper decks for great sightseeing and comfortable lower saloons. Relax and enjoy the views, onboard commentary, light refreshments and full bar service as London's famous sights glide by.

Hop aboard your River Thames sightseeing boat in the early evening, and set sail from London’s Westminster Pier. Perfectly set up for a spot of evening sightseeing, your boat boasts a spacious open-air deck and window-side seats in the saloon below. Before sitting down, help yourself to the selection of colorful canapés on offer and grab a glass of sparkling wine. Then simply relax, listen to live music and watch the sun set on London.

Heading east in the direction of Greenwich, cruise down the River Thames passing all the top London attractions that frame its famous riverbanks. Pass the prestigious Houses of Parliament, where London’s politicians plan their daily dealings, and catch sight of Big Ben – the much-loved clock tower that dominates the district of Westminster.

The ever-popular London Eye sits on the south side of the river, close to Shakespeare’s Globe, the lovingly reconstructed Elizabethan playhouse. As your Sundowner boat twists its way around the bends of the Thames, watch out for a cluster of iconic sights around London Bridge. See the gravity-defying Shard building that stands at 1,016 feet (310 meters) tall, alongside sites steeped in history like the Tower of London.

Cruise past Canary Wharf, the skyscraper village where London bankers do their daily trading, before seeing the grand Naval College and Cutty Sark boat at Greenwich. Your boat will turn around at this point, and start meandering its way back to Westminster where your tour ends – perfect for you to catch any sights that you missed first time ‘round!

Madame Tussauds
At Madame Tussauds interactive wax exhibit, you can experience what it is like to be famous and join a host of the world's hottest celebrities at the A-list party. Pucker up and plant a kiss on Robbie Williams' cheek, and see if you can be the one to put a twinkle in his eye. Then join Beyonce, Angelina and Brad at the most glamorous A-list celebrity party in town.

Thames River Sightseeing Cruise
The best way to see the sights and splendor of this great city is from the deck of a boat. Aboard the sightseeing cruise, you'll travel in comfort and style past London's world-famous landmarks. The boats have open upper decks for great sightseeing and comfortable lower saloons. Relax and enjoy the views, onboard commentary, light refreshments and full bar service as London's famous sights glide by.

Cruises depart every 40 minutes from Westminster Pier, Waterloo Pier (near the London Eye), Tower Pier and Greenwich Pier (near the Cutty Sark). You can hop on or off at any of the piers as often as you like throughout the day. The shortest trip between piers lasts approximately 20-30 minutes, while the full round trip takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Make your way to Greenwich Pier, the London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, or Westminster Pier, then jump aboard your sightseeing boat to begin your tour. With cruises departing every 30 minutes from 10am throughout the year, enjoy the freedom to take to the water at your leisure.

During your Thames River sightseeing cruise, admire top London attractions such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, the Oxo Tower, St. Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and Westminster Bridge from the waves. All boats have toilets, bars to buy refreshment (own expense), confectionary, and snacks, and an upper viewing deck for photo opportunities.

Alight at your leisure at Greenwich Pier — within walking distance of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich Park, Greenwich Market, and a host of boutique shops and quality eateries — and visit the famous Cutty Sark, a 19th-century tea clipper. During your visit, walk the decks in the footsteps of merchant seamen who sailed her over a century ago, and learn of the trading routes the ship plied in her colorful career on the waves.

Make your way to Greenwich Pier, the London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, or Westminster Pier, then jump aboard your sightseeing boat to begin your tour. With cruises departing every 30 minutes from 10am throughout the year, enjoy the freedom to take to the water at your leisure.

During your Thames River sightseeing cruise, admire top London attractions such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and Westminster Bridge from your vantage point on the river. All boats have toilets, bars to buy refreshment (own expense), confectionary, and snacks, and an upper viewing deck for photo opportunities.

Afterward, alight from your sightseeing boat in central London and visit the SeaLife London Aquarium — widely considered among the capital’s top attractions. Explore 14 themed zones including the Ray Lagoon, the Shark Walk, and the Tidal Reach, and venture into the Pacific Wreck — where sharks swim quietly past the Easter Island heads.

Along the way, enjoy up-close views of diverse marine species such as blind cave fish, bonnethead sharks, bowmouth guitarfish, clownfish, piranhas, sand eels, and sea horses.

Make your way to Greenwich Pier, the London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, or Westminster Pier, then jump aboard your sightseeing boat to begin your tour. With cruises departing every 30 minutes from 10am throughout the year, enjoy the freedom to take to the water at your leisure.

During your Thames River sightseeing cruise, admire top London attractions such as County Hall, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Southwark Cathedral, the Tate Modern, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London from your vantage point on the river. All boats have toilets, bars to buy refreshment (own expense), confectionary, and snacks, and an upper viewing deck for photo opportunities.

Afterward, alight from your sightseeing boat in central London and visit St. Paul's Cathedral — widely considered to be London’s most impressive place of worship. During your visit, explore the crypt — resting place of Admiral Lord Nelson and the cathedral's architect Sir Christopher Wren. Head up to the Whispering Gallery in the dome, and admire spectacular views over the rooftops of London from the Golden Gallery.

Start your adventure at Westminster Pier, Tower Pier or Greenwich Pier. Westminster Pier is conveniently located next to Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. It is also only a short walk from Whitehall, Horse Guards Parade and Trafalgar Square. Tower Pier is ideally located next to Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Once you have your ticket, you can also hop-on, and hop-off from London Eye pier, located next to the London Eye and just two minutes walk from London Dungeon and London Aquarium. Greenwich Pier is located next to the famous Cutty Sark clipper, and within walking distance of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich Park, Greenwich Market and a host of boutique shops and quality eateries.

Cruises depart every 30 minutes throughout the year and sights to be seen include, but are not limited to, Big Ben and Houses of Parliament, London Eye, HMS Belfast, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Monument, Golden Hinde, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, City Hall, the Savoy Hotel, RAF Memorial, RS Hispaniola, Old Scotland Yard, London Bridge, Westminster Bridge, Oxo Tower, The Shard, the Gherkin, the Walkie-Talkie, Tate Modern, Cleopatra’s Needle, Portcullis House, Traitor’s Gate, Southwark Cathedral, Millennium Bridge, Northern and Shell Building, London Television Centre, Cutty Sark, Royal Greenwich, Old Scotland Yard, City of London Boy’s School, Hay’s Galleria, County Hall, and the National Theatre.

All boats have toilets, bars to buy refreshment, confectionary and snacks, and an outside/upper viewing deck for those once in a life time photo opportunities. Most vessels are wheelchair accessible.

Well deserving of the long-standing reputation for being one of London's goriest and atmospheric attractions, the London Dungeon takes you on a journey into London's murky history. Find yourself stalked through narrow streets by the infamous Jack the Ripper, meet the murderous King Henry VIII, or (if you dare) get up close and personal with the pungent "Gong Farmer"... well, maybe we'd best not explain that one... Bringing with it all new shows, effects and costumes, the London Dungeon has moved to a huge new location next to the London Eye. This puts it, rather conveniently, right next door to one of the river cruise stops, meaning it makes a perfect day out when combined with a sightseeing cruise of the Thames.

Tower of London
Home to the Crown Jewels, the Tower of London reverberates with dark secrets, where priceless jewels glint in fortified vaults and pampered ravens strut the grounds. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, and enlarged and modified by successive sovereigns, the Tower of London is one of the world's most famous and spectacular fortresses. Discover its 900-year history as royal palace and fortress, prison and place of execution, mint, arsenal, menagerie and jewel house.

Thames River Sightseeing Cruise
The best way to see the sights and splendor of this great capital city is from the deck of a boat. The River Thames weaves its way through London, with history around every bend.

You'll experience the sights and splendor of this great city from the comfort of a modern, all-weather, wheelchair-friendly RiverLiner, with open upper decks and spacious lower saloons with panoramic windows. Take advantage of two bars providing light refreshments, snacks and alcoholic beverages.

Cruises depart frequently from Westminster Pier, Waterloo (London Eye) Pier, Tower and Greenwich Pier. The shortest trips between piers last around 30 minutes, while the full round trip takes 2.5 leisurely hours.

Cruise from the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben all the way to Greenwich and discover London's historical sights along the way on this 1-hour Thames river sightseeing trip. With departures every 30-40 minutes from Westminster Pier and live audio commentary, this is a perfect introduction to the city: upgrade for a return ticket.

Boats run every 30-40 minutes throughout the year, starting at 10am at busy times of year and 10:20am at less busy times, with the last boat between 3:30pm and 5pm. Board at your leisure at Westminster Pier, and enjoy views of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you do so.

As you glide eastwards down the river, admire sights from the London Eye to Tower Bridge, from Shakespeare's Globe to St. Paul's Cathedral. The audio commentary will help you spot new and exciting landmarks among the icons, among them soaring skyscrapers like the Shard and the Gherkin.

Once you've enjoyed London old and new on your hour-long cruise, make the most of Greenwich. Attractions here include the Cutty Sark sailing ship, the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory, and Greenwich Market – all within easy walking distance of the pier and available at your own expense.

Upgrade for a return ticket to bring you back to Westminster by river.

Enjoy a sightseeing cruise to the Thames Barrier. Starting at Westminster Pier you will cruise down to Greenwich on a sightseeing cruise before  moving onto the Thames Barrier. Opened in 1984 by the Queen, the Thames Barrier is London’s principal defense against flooding.

Board at your leisure at Westminster Pier for your cruise and enjoy the comfort of being on modern or traditional vessels. Enjoy the panoramic views of London’s sights from the open deck of the vessel whilst enjoying a live audio commentary of London's fascinating history.

The full Westminster to Greenwich and Thames Barrier single cruise takes 1.5 hours whilst a return cruise on this route takes 3 hours. See what Greenwich has to offer in the way of attractions with Greenwich Market, Cutty Sark, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich Park and Royal Observatory Greenwich all within walking distance of the pier (on expense).

Your morning tour of London begins with a panoramic drive up to Kensington Palace, once home to Princess Diana. Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones  as your tour starts and listen to your guide talking clearly about each site. Nearby you will see the stunning Royal Albert Hall - where famous London concerts are hosted, and the historic Albert Memorial.

Continue through London to Trafalgar Square, passing Whitehall and the Prime Minister’s residence on Downing Street. On arrival at Parliament Square you’ll see more top London attractions including the Big Ben clock, the Houses of Parliament and the magnificent Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton were married by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Your morning tour will then head to St. James’ Park and Buckingham Palace to see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. Accompanied by a military band, soldiers from the Queen’s Foot Guard march to Buckingham Palace in their familiar red tunics and bearskin hats. This the oldest ceremony linked to Buckingham Palace, and it is truly representative of the colorful pomp and ceremony that make the British Royal Family so fascinating.

Your tour finishes in Trafalgar Square, conveniently located in the heart of central London so you can continue your afternoon sightseeing independently. Upgrade your experience to include an open-date ticket for the London Eye.

London City Sightseeing Tour Including Tower of London and City of London (4.5 Hours)Meet your guide in Trafalgar Square, and then settle into your comfortable seat aboard an air-conditioned coach. Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones as your tour starts so you can hear your guide talking clearly about each site.

Your first stop is a guided tour of St Paul's Cathedral. Crowned by the magnificent dome that continues to dominate the London skyline, the cathedral was rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666. In recent years it has seen the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales, to Lady Diana Spencer and the services for both the Golden Jubilee and 80th birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.

Next it's on to the Tower of London, the ancient fortress steeped in centuries of murder and treason. The splendidly dressed Beefeaters will tell you about the Tower's history, including tragic tales of royals and nobles who met their end within its walls. You'll also see the Crown Jewels, including the 6,000-year-old Koh-I-Noor diamond and impressive coronation regalia.

Then continue to the City of London, that famous square mile where new architecture towers above buildings dating back to medieval times.

Your tour concludes in Trafalgar Square around an hour before you need to meet for your next tour.

Jack the Ripper Tour and London Ghost Walk (3 Hours)Join up with your coach in Trafalgar Square or along the nearby Strand. Then, as you travel to your first stop, listen to your guide set the scene for your evening tour. The year is 1888. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle has just published his first Sherlock Holmes story; meanwhile, in the Whitechapel district of London's East End, five women are brutally murdered by the world's first recognized serial killer, Jack the Ripper.

Gaze out of the window and see sights such as the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which is said to be the most haunted theater in London, and the Old Bailey — a site of numerous public hangings. You’ll also visit Fleet Street, home of the demonic barber Sweeny Todd and his accomplice Mrs Lovett, who allegedly baked pies from the flesh of his victims and sold them to unsuspecting customers.

In Whitechapel, jump out of your coach to inspect some of Jack the Ripper's murder sites, decipher the evidence and discuss the suspects. You'll even see Ten Bells Pub, established in 1752, where many of the merciless killer's victims came to drink.

The tour finishes at a traditional pub near Trafalgar Square, where you can calm your nerves with a drink (own expense).

Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones as your tour starts and listen to your guide talking clearly about each site. If you want to wander aside and take photos of attractions, you won’t miss any of the commentary!

First stop is a guided tour of Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece, St. Paul's Cathedral. Crowned by the magnificent dome that continues to dominate the London skyline, the cathedral was rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666. In recent years it has seen the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales, to Lady Diana Spencer and, most recently, the thanksgiving services for both the Golden Jubilee and 80th Birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.

Then it's on to the Tower of London, the ancient fortress steeped in centuries of murder and treason, guarded by jet-black ravens. The splendidly dressed Beefeaters will tell you about the Tower's history, including tragic tales of royals and nobles who met their end within its walls. You'll also see the fabulous Crown Jewels, including the 6,000-year-old Koh-I-Noor diamond and impressive coronation regalia. Before you leave the tower, your guide will hand you a ticket for sightseeing cruise to Westminster Pier. The ticket can be used after your tour, or any other day of your choice (up until March 31, 2016).

You'll then continue by coach to the City of London, that famous square mile where brash new architecture towers above buildings dating back to medieval times. The Romans founded Londinium here 2,000 years ago, and the city's square mile of narrow streets follows the cramped medieval street plan.
You'll see the glorious dome of St. Paul's Cathedral, the elegant Mansion House, home to the Lord Mayor of London, and the nearby Bank of England, known as the Old Lady of Threadneedle Street, at the heart of the City.

St Paul’s Cathedral is closed to the public on Sundays and following dates: December 23 2014, February 4, 18, March 19, April 3 and May 12 2015. On these dates, there will be a photo stop outside the Cathedral and the tour will visit Tower Bridge Exhibition or Banqueting House instead.

See London on a full-day sightseeing tour of the city, led by a guide. Hear the history of top London attractions like Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, and receive fast-track entry and a guided tour of St Paul’s Cathedral. After the sightseeing tour, watch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace and tour the Tower of London. As a bonus, this experience also includes a one-way River Thames sightseeing cruise, which can be used on the day or another time. Upgrade to include a flexible London Eye ticket to be used on any day you wish.

Meet your guide on board your air-conditioned coach, and then relax as you travel around central London to see the sights. Pass through Parliament Square, seeing the Houses of Parliament and the Big Ben clock, and then travel past Westminster Abbey where Prince William married Kate Middleton in a lavish royal wedding ceremony. Admire prestigious government buildings at Whitehall and Downing Street, and then see the hustle and bustle that surrounds Nelson’s Column at Trafalgar Square.

Travel to Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the Queen, and walk around in front of the gates to see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. Have your camera ready to capture the pomp and pageantry of the Queen’s Foot Guard as they march in their eye-catching red tunics and bearskin hats, and then travel by coach to a traditional London pub in Trafalgar Square.

Rest and refuel with a hearty lunch (own expense), and then continue your day of sightseeing with a visit to the City of London, an area just east of the city center where many of London’s banks can be found. Look out for the sights as your guide explains their history and hop out for fast-track entry and a guided tour of St Paul's Cathedral.

Continue to the Tower of London, and head inside to explore at your leisure. The former prison and fortress, which looks out over the River Thames, was built to terrify potential invaders and Londoners alike. Steeped in centuries of murder and treason, the tower is fascinating to explore with its famous jet-black ravens and Beefeater guides. Should you wish, opt to join one of the complimentary Beefeater tours that run every 30 minutes and hear tragic tales of the royals and nobles who met their end within the tower’s walls.

Before your tour finishes, receive a ticket for a sightseeing cruise along the River Thames, from the Tower of London to Westminster Pier. Upgrade to include an flexible ticket for the London Eye, to used any time you wish.

Day 1: Royal London Sightseeing Tour with Changing of the Guard Ceremony (3.5 Hours)
Following pickup from Victoria Coach Station, your morning tour begins with a panoramic drive to Kensington Palace, once home to Princess Diana. Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones as your tour starts and listen to your guide talking clearly about each site. On route, see the Royal Albert Hall, where many famous concerts are hosted, and the Albert Memorial.

Continue to Trafalgar Square, passing Whitehall and the Prime Minister’s residence on Downing Street. On arrival at Parliament Square, view more top London attractions including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton were married.

Next, head to St James’s Park and Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Accompanied by a military band, soldiers from the Queen’s Foot Guard march to Buckingham Palace in their cherry-red tunics and bearskin hats. This is Buckingham Palace’s oldest ceremony, and it is truly representative of the pomp and ceremony that make the British Royal Family so fascinating.

Your tour then finishes in Trafalgar Square.

Day 2: London to Stonehenge Independent Afternoon Trip with Audio Tour (5.5 to 6 Hours)
Head out of London on an air-conditioned coach to the UNESCO-listed Stonehenge. This fascinating stone circle has sat in the same spot on the Salisbury plain for more than 5,000 years, yet nobody knows why it is there or how it was constructed.

Plug into your included audio-guide to hear the different theories surrounding its purpose, and enjoy about an hour to wander around the stones independently. See the beautiful Bluestone rocks on the inside of the circle, and wonder at how these 40-ton stones could have been transported and who could have carved them in such a distinctive way.

When the time comes, return to your coach and travel back to your original departure point, where your tour concludes.

Start with a pickup from Victoria Coach Station, and then kick off your morning tour with a panoramic drive to Kensington Palace, once home to Princess Diana. Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones and listen to your guide’s commentary about each site. On route, see the Royal Albert Hall, where many famous concerts are held, and the Albert Memorial.

Continue to Trafalgar Square, passing Whitehall and the Prime Minister’s residence on Downing Street. On arrival at Parliament Square, take in more top London sights including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.

Next, head to St James’s Park and Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Look on in delight as the Queen’s Foot Guards — clothed in crimson tunics and bearskin hats — march in time to drumbeats from a military band.

Your coach tour then finishes in Trafalgar Square, leaving you only a short walk from the Thames River. Make your own way to either Westminster Pier or Tower Pier to catch your Thames River cruise boat. Show your one-way ticket and then find yourself a seat on the open-air upper deck, or settle into a window-side seat in the heated lower saloon area.

With your camera in hand, gaze out over the water as you pass iconic London attractions such as London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the Shard. Learn the history behind each sight from the live commentary and help yourself to refreshments (own expense) from the onboard bar.

After roughly 45 minutes on the water, your cruise concludes at Tower Pier, if you boarded at Westminster Pier, or Westminster Pier, if you boarded at Tower Pier.

Hop on board your double decker at Green Park in central London, and set off on your 1.5-hour night tour. Taking in all of London’s iconic attractions, you’ll see how just magical the capital is at nightfall, with beautifully lit buildings lining its bustling streets.

Pass along London’s Piccadilly, the street that’s home to elegant stores like Fortnum & Mason alongside brash neon billboards, and weave through the borough of Westminster to see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and illuminated boats cruising down the River Thames. Learn about St Paul’s Cathedral from your guide as you pass by, and marvel at its size – the second largest church in the country.

Across the river, watch out for the London Eye, which lights up the city’s Southbank with its colorful nighttime illuminations. Then check out Tower Bridge, one the most photographed nighttime London landmarks; you’ll understand why as you drive past, admiring its golden lights shining out over the river.

Your tour continues to Knightsbridge, the classy neighborhood that’s home to Harrods – London’s best-loved department store. Your guide will point out famous concert halls and museums like the Royal Albert Hall and the Natural History Museum, before returning to Green Park, near the swanky Ritz hotel.

For being one of London’s most famous regions, Greenwich, in London’s southeast, is surprisingly undiscovered by many. With a distinctly ‘English’ feel, the neighborhood is conservative and traditional due to its royal roots, yet also has an edgier side with exciting attractions, quirky independent shops, street markets and a thriving pub scene – all crying out to be explored!

Your private driver will pick up from your central London hotel, and after a quick chat about suggested attractions, you’ll be on your way. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your morning based on your preferences – just let your driver know what you want to see and then sit back and enjoy the ride taking in panoramic views of London!

Most itineraries involve a route that takes in the top sights around Maritime Greenwich – a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area that contains a collection of world-class attractions. Take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere, or perhaps visit some of the top sites (entry fees at your own expense).

Well-known sites inside Maritime Greenwich include the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park, home of Greenwich Mean Time, and the majestic Old Royal Naval College that was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the late 1600s. The famous Cutty Sark ship can be found in dry dock here, and is definitely worth a visit. The last surviving tea-clipper boat is said to have been the fastest and greatest of her time.

Your friendly private driver will give you plenty of insider tips for the best places to see or have lunch or a snack, should you wish. Greenwich has an array of independent shops that are worth visiting, or if you’re traveling on a weekend, a trip to Greenwich Market is a must. Alternatively you might wish to see the O2 Arena (named the North Greenwich Arena for the Olympic Games) where many athletic events during the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics were held.

You tour finishes back at your hotel, or you can arrange with your driver to be dropped off at the central London location of your choice.

Picking you up from your central London hotel, your private driver will provide you with a few suggestions for places that you might want to see or explore. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your evening based on your preferences – just let your driver know what central London attractions you’d like to see, and then sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!

Most itineraries involve a route that takes in the top London sights, so you can get out of the car to walk around, perhaps entering some attractions at your own expense, before venturing on to the next site on your list.

Visit Piccadilly, the busy street that boasts several big-name London shops and hotels like Fortnum & Mason (open till late!) and the Ritz, and see Trafalgar Square when its daytime crowds and pigeons are replaced by party goers and lit-up monuments.

Be sure to take a walk around Soho, London’s proudly bohemian neighborhood, where you’re guaranteed to see a diverse bunch of Londoners enjoying a night out. The epicenter of London’s vibrant gay community, Soho also boasts an eclectic mix of businesses, from bustling Chinatown restaurants to seedy shops to trendy bars crammed full of media darlings from offices nearby.

Neighboring Soho is London’s ‘theatreland’ – the West End. This frenzied and fast-paced area is home to London’s finest theaters, such as the Adelphi and Theatre Royal, and is most definitely worth checking out.

Whatever route you decide to take, consider fitting in the Thames Embankment. Your driver can recommend a famous riverside London pub here, or point you in the right direction for a stroll along the Embankment’s south side. Following the Thames path, pass beautifully illuminated attractions like the London Eye, Festival Hall or the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben on the other side of the river.

After three hours of independent sightseeing around London at night, your private driver will drop you off back at your hotel.

Your private London tour experience begins even before you arrive. Once you have completed your booking, you'll receive a 2-minute checklist by email to fill out which will let the guide know which areas of the city you would like to visit, as well as any special interests you have.

At a confirmed time (based on your request), your guide will meet you at your accommodation or chosen location in London. Next, explore London with your experienced, private guide for 3.5 hours. See major landmarks and discover hidden gems while you listen to your guide share fascinating stories from London's past and present. You can even explore the city's shopping and dining scene. If you are unsure what you want to see, let the planning team help. Your guide is an expert Londoner who will make your visit hassle free. Public transportation passes for your entire group are included for the duration of the tour - our safe and efficient public transport system allows you to skip the traffic.

Sample Itinerary:
At 10am, be welcomed to London by your guide who will meet you in your hotel lobby. Head to the West End and explore Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden. Listen to your guide explain about the Theater District and London's battles as you explore the area. Next, see the Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace - an unforgettable ceremony. View from a secret location, away from the crowds, which will allow you to get close to the guards for great photos and even better memories. March alongside the guards towards Buckingham Palace as the marching band plays.

Later, stroll through St. James's Park, an oasis in the city. Make your way to Horse Guards Parade for photos and see Downing Street - home to the prime minister. In the early afternoon, discover the secrets of WWII hidden under Whitehall, see the Cenotaph (the nation's war memorial) and reach Parliament Square. Now, get your camera out for amazing photos of Big Ben, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Discover the area's history which spans over 1,000 years and marvel at the wonders of the River Thames and the London Eye.

Finally, before your London experience concludes at a location of your choice, get a unique view of London's skyline from a special area handpicked by your guide. Get tips about great local places to eat nearby, must-visit attractions and where to shop to get a bargain.

Your private guide will collect you from the lobby of your hotel. You can discuss the flexible itinerary before you set off. You will have the chance to see may famous locations around London.

Watch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony in front of Buckingham Palace. Continue to Westminster Abbey, final resting place of kings, queens, poets and statesmen.

Admire architectural details of the former Benedictine monastery, including the stone cloisters, Chapter House and Strong Room.
Enjoy the views of Big Ben and the marvelous Houses of Parliament.

Then, walk up Whitehall, past the Banqueting House and No.10 Downing Street residence of the Prime Minister. Finally arrive at Trafalgar Square and you can visit the National Gallery.

Enjoy an intimate introduction to England's capital on a private 3-hour tour of London with a private driver guide and see some of the city's most iconic sights. Your private driver/guide will collect you from the reception desk of your hotel. Discuss the flexible itinerary before you set off.

Go to Buckingham Palace - official residence of the Royal Family. Continue to Westminster Abbey - final resting place of kings, queens, poets and statesmen. Admire architectural details of the former Benedictine monastery, including the stone cloisters, Chapter House and Strong Room.

Take in the Clock Tower, home to Big Ben, and the marvelous Gothic edifice of the Houses of Parliament. See Banqueting House and No. 10 Downing Street or Trafalgar Square and National Gallery. Famous Tower of London and Tower Bridge, magnificent St Paul Cathedral and many more places.

Then, walk up Whitehall, past Banqueting House and No. 10 Downing Street, to arrive at Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Conclude your tour back at your hotel.

Start your tour with an evening pickup from your centrally located London hotel, then spin through the streets with your private chauffeur as the bright city lights illuminate your route. With flexible itinerary, enjoy the freedom to hit the highlights you most want to see.

Perhaps take in popular sites of interest such as Chinatown, Piccadilly, Soho — London’s proudly bohemian neighborhood — Trafalgar Square, and the gitzy West End. Along the way, stop at your leisure to explore a little on foot and shop at famous stores like Fortnum and Mason (own expense).

Why not head down the Thames Embankment — home to must-see sites including Big Ben, Festival Hall, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye? With the landmarks illuminated against the night sky, capture beautiful views on camera.

After three hours of independent sightseeing around London at night, your private chauffeur will drop you off back at your hotel.

The Original Black Taxi Tour - Bespoke London Sights & Afternoon Tea - is the first of its kind.
Discover the enchanting world of tea through the ages, plus the history and sites of London with our guided tea tour. This family friendly tour is perfect for those who want to explore the history of London together with an insight into the history of Tea, from its origins in China, its popularity in Georgian Britain, to the present day. Learn how tea has shaped British culture.
 During the tour you will  be treated to the sophistication of bespoke London. We will visit A hat Maker, A Shoe maker, a Chocolatier (with free samples) a perfume shop to name just a few.
Besides seeing the major London attractions , where you can stop and get photographs. Your guide will also tell you their history. Then besides the bespoke places of London this tour will actually take you to a venue where you can purchase teas in over a hundred different flavor’s plus a visit to our SECRET tea haunt where you will be able to try the best tea in Britain on us. This stop is unique and private.
There is only one way to finish off this tour and that is by having tea and we have the best Tea spots for you. (tea venue is at your expense) We will finish the tour at any tea venue in London for you (booking is essential and subject to availability) but we have a favourite which is a small tea haven that is a step back in time venue. You can listen to jazz and swing music from the 1940’s as you choose from over 16 different expert leaf teas plus they make their own sandwiches and cakes for you to indulge in. Remember there is no better sophisticated pastime than afternoon tea. Enjoy that in a vintage tea room in the heart of London how wonderful is that.

Arriving in a classic London black taxi, your private driver will collect you from your central London hotel, and then you’ll be on your way. Relaxing in the black cab’s comfortable seats, sit back and watch the sights of London pass by as your friendly driver tells you about this fantastic city – from above and below!

While the skyline of London is rightly famous, not so many know about the city’s network of subterranean tunnels – almost comprising a city in their own right! On a route around central London, stop to explore some of these fascinating tunnels underneath the River Thames, and visit an underground church crypt. Hear about the tunnels’ uses during Victorian times and learn about the secret passageways that were said to be used in the world wars.

After exploring below ground, head back into the daylight to continue your journey around central London. Climb the 31-step staircase inside the Monument to the Great Fire of London (or simply, ‘the Monument,’ as Londoners know it) and then head to the City of London for an incredible view of the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral.

Marvel at Westminster’s skyline from the top of a tower inside Westminster Cathedral (extra charge) and see top London attractions like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from this panoramic vantage point. Your tour also includes a tantalizing sight of the River Thames as you cross above it by the new Thames Cable Car (extra charge) that connects London’s Royal Docks to the Royal Borough of Greenwich, on the south side of the river. After four hours of seeing London’s sights from above and below, your tour finishes back at your central hotel.

Meet your private guide in central London in the morning, or enjoy a handy morning pickup at your hotel. Then, take a seat in your vehicle for the onward journey out of the city to Stratford-upon-Avon — nestled in the Warwickshire countryside.

On arrival, explore sites of interest associated with Shakespeare’s life such as his birthplace and burial ground, the thatched cottage of Anne Hathaway — his wife — and the walled gardens of Hall’s Croft, where his daughter lived.

Along the way, admire fine views over the half-timbered Tudor houses for which Stratford-upon-Avon is famous, and gain insight into life here in Shakespeare’s day.

When your time in Stratford-upon-Avon comes to an end, return in comfort to your London hotel to conclude your tour.

With the London Pass, save both time and money as you skip admission lines with fast-track entrance and enjoy free entry to more than 60 top London attractions. There is no need to use cash – simply show your London Pass for fast and easy entry to London’s most popular sites.

Choose from a 1-, 2-, 3-,6- day pass, plus enjoy discounts on your shopping and dining. Keen to explore the city in the most hassle-free way? Upgrade your London Pass to include a Oyster Travelcard. Competitively priced, the upgrade option allows journeys made on the London Underground, London Overground, buses and Dockland Light Railway.

London Pass includes:

• A 120-page London guidebook
• Public transport in travel zones 1-6 for the validity of your pass (if Oyster upgrade option selected)
• Free entry to 60 attractions (see Itinerary)
• Discounts and benefits at selected London restaurants, theaters and shops
• Fast-track entrance to many top London-area attractions, like Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London

This is flexible and affordable sightseeing at its finest! Valid for 30 days from the first day of first use, the London Explorer Pass lets you customize your itinerary and discover key London sights at your own pace. Your London Explorer Pass comes with an included guidebook to choose the three, five or seven activities that interest you most! The pass provides discounts at restaurants and retailers, and many featured attractions include skip-the-line entry. The guidebook you'll receive details attraction descriptions, hours of operation, directions and maps. Once you've chosen your three, five or seven attractions, access to them is easy — simply swipe your pass at designated ticketing areas and enjoy! See below Itinerary for a full list of included attractions and tours, including additional savings.

Make your way to Greenwich Pier, the London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, or Westminster Pier, then jump aboard your sightseeing boat to begin your tour. With cruises departing every 30 minutes from 10am throughout the year, enjoy the freedom to take to the water at your leisure.

During your Thames River sightseeing cruise, admire top London attractions such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and Westminster Bridge from your vantage point on the river. All boats have toilets, bars to buy refreshment (own expense), confectionary, and snacks, and an upper viewing deck for photo opportunities.

Afterward, alight from your sightseeing boat in central London and visit the London Bridge Experience — widely considered among the capital’s top attractions. Travel back in time and uncover the dark secrets that lie within the arches of the original 1831 bridge.

Then, enter the Vortex and get ready to face your fears as you land at the London Tombs. Make your way past walls dripping in blood, squeeze through confined spaces, and scream with terror as you are met with an array of unspeakable horrors!

Make your way to Greenwich Pier, the London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, or Westminster Pier, then jump aboard your sightseeing boat to begin your tour. With cruises departing every 30 minutes from 10am throughout the year, enjoy the freedom to take to the water at your leisure.

During your Thames River sightseeing cruise, admire top London attractions such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and Westminster Bridge from your vantage point on the river. All boats have toilets, bars to buy refreshment (own expense), confectionary, and snacks, and an upper viewing deck for photo opportunities.

Alight at your leisure at Greenwich Pier and stroll up to the Greenwich Royal Observatory for sweeping views over Greenwich Park and the Thames River.

On arrival, learn how great scientists first mapped the seas and the stars, and stand astride two hemispheres at the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the world-famous Meridian Line. Touch a 4.5 billion year-old meteorite, watch how the universe was formed,, and guide a space mission to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos!

In a city surrounded by dragons, we discuss the importance of the several security breaches at Gringotts Bank and learn about the wizarding world's currency. How many galleons would a wand  cost?   Wind through the old streets of the City of London, will we find Diagon Alley? 

After visiting the film locations for the Leaky Cauldron and the Third Hand Bookshop which hosted Gilroy Lockhart's book signing (both in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban)  we admire a floating museum displaying the Gryffindor colours . See if you think this might be the inspiration for the Durmstrang ship in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

See an infamous Muggle prison where prisoners were tortured and forgotten and compare that to the origins of Azkaban prison, once a place where Muggles were lured and tortured. Take in the iconic views of London as we cross Brokdale Bridge  (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix) and hear the spine-chilling eye witness account of the Death Eater attack of June 1996.

You will be contacted by the supplier within 24 hours, you will be asked question s bout your preferences and interests, so they can match you with the right profile and assign a like-minded local Londoner. He or she who will become your host. Keeping in mind your personal answers,  a bespoke itinerary will be put together, just for you. 

A meeting point will be arranged with your guide in the most convenient place for you. If during the tour you feel like changing direction, or your guide believes that you'd enjoy a sight or different experience, he/she will suggest and discuss with you changes to the itinerary.

Enjoy discovering amazing spots in London that you don't know about and are difficult to find in any guidebook or on the Internet, because they are lesser known to the crowd but beloved by Locals! The day revolves around your wishes so enjoy your private tour and let your Local show you the London you will love.

Make your way to Greenwich Pier, the London Eye Pier, Tower Pier, or Westminster Pier, then jump aboard your sightseeing boat to begin your tour. With cruises departing every 30 minutes from 10am throughout the year, enjoy the freedom to take to the water at your leisure.

During your Thames River sightseeing cruise, admire top London attractions such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and Westminster Bridge from your vantage point on the river. All boats have toilets, bars to buy refreshment (own expense), confectionery, and snacks, and an upper viewing deck for photo opportunities.

Afterward, alight from your sightseeing boat in central London and visit the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre — the world’s largest and most comprehensive exhibition devoted to poet and playwright William Shakespeare.

During your visit, discover the secrets of Elizabethan special effects — from blood and gore to magic tricks — and enjoy live demonstrations including sword-fighting and costume dressings. Explore the theater — a faithful reconstruction of the open-air playhouse first built in 1599 — and learn of the many Shakespearean plays performed here.

Sail down the Thames and enjoy the views from your cruise. Your Thames cruise ticket is valid in the central and eastern zones. Disembark at North Greenwich for Emirates Airline. 

Soar over London in the Emirates Air Line cable cars. All tickets include a 360 Degree tour on Emirates Air Line, in-flight discovery film and souvenir in-flight guide and entry to Emirates Aviation Experience located by the North Greenwich terminal is also included.

Explore London from the deck of a boat on the Thames River! Escape the crowded tubes and buses to enjoy a journey on the fastest fleet of catamarans on the river. The boats depart every 20 minuets from a number of different locations including Westminster, Embankment, Greenwich, North Greenwich and Tower Bridge.

This is the most perfect way to get through the centre of the city, enjoy unbeatable views of London's landmarks which are lining the river Thames. The Thames cruise ticket allows you to hop-on and hop-off at any pier in the central and eastern zones.

'Take off' on the Emirates Air line, launched in 2012 this stunning attraction allows you to get incredible views of the Olympic park, 02 and the London skyline. Take the Thames cruise across the river and board the Emirates Air Line.

Head inside Ripley’s Believe It or Not! with your entrance ticket and explore this fascinating attraction independently, admiring its collection of some 700 artifacts from around the world. Audio guides and maps are available for you to purchase at your own expense, or alternatively, just amble around the six-floor exhibition at your own pace.

The man who coined the expression ‘believe it or not’ was the exhibition’s founder – Robert Ripley. An eccentric cartoon artist and intrepid explorer, he created the attraction with the aim of satisfying people’s basic curiosities through challenging and unusual exhibits – the types of things that people had to see to believe. Do just that and discover crazy artifacts like the 13-foot (4-meter) model of Tower Bridge made from matchsticks, and the Tsantsa collection – a baffling assortment of shrunken heads from the Amazon jungle!

See a life-sized knitted Ferrari car, and wander through interactive discovery zones like the Mirror Maze. Jump, crawl and twist your way through beams of light in the Laser Race and prepare to feel dizzy as you walk through the attraction’s legendary Vortex Tunnel. The largest collection of Olympic torches can be found in the Legend’s Gallery, and this includes the London torch signed by the British gold medalist cycler Laura Trot.

Take a break from the weird and wonderful by relaxing in the center’s coffee bar, or perhaps browse for intriguing souvenirs in the gift shop. If you visit during peak times (April to October) then you can also expect to see additional live performances in the foyer.

Most visitors find that two hours is sufficient to see everything in Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, but if you want to stay longer, then no problem! Your ticket allows you to spend as much time as you want inside.

Start your tour with a pickup at your London hotel, then take a seat in your vehicle for the onward journey out of the city to the Portsmouth Historic Dockyards. Home to some of the most famous British ships to have ever sailed the seven seas, the dockyard is widely considered among Portsmouth’s top attractions.

On arrival, follow your guide on a tour of the site and admire famous vessels including King Henry VIII’s flagship the Mary Rose. Enjoy up-close views of Royal Navy ships including Nelson’s HMS Victory and the 19th-century HMS Warrior — once one of the most powerful ships on the sea. As you explore, gain insight into the hardships faced by the sailors on board.

Climb the rigging, explore below decks, and see where Nelson lived and died. If weather allows, perhaps take a harbor boat tour and see modern-day Royal Navy vessels in dock. When your time at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyards comes to an end, return in comfort to your London hotel to conclude your tour.

The National Gallery houses one of the greatest collections of Western paintings in the world. From a striking Northern Renaissance collection, to one of Da Vinci's finest, through the Post-Impressionists, a walk through the National Gallery is akin to a stroll through the annals of western civilization's best works. This National Gallery Tour, led by an art historian, will lead us through an in-depth exploration of the Gallery, providing a sense of context and progression to this unparalleled collection.

• National Gallery Tour led by an art historian
• Small group—6 people max
• Includes works from Da Vinci and Van Eyck to Van Gogh and Monet

National Gallery Tour

We begin the visit in the Sainsbury Wing, where the Gallery houses its earliest works—paintings from 1250-1510, encompassing Late Gothic, Early Renaissance, and Renaissance art. Our discussion will revolve around the development of painting, and how the context and function of works of art shaped their appearance from exquisite, jewel-like private devotional altarpieces to Raphael’s grand and spatially sophisticated Ansideialtarpiece. Our course through this wing will depend on our docent's intellectual proclivity and the interests of the group, but our focus will include such works as Paolo Uccello's The Battle of San Romano, Jan Van Eyck's Arnolfini Portrait, Botticelli's Venus and Mars, and Leonardo Da Vinci's Venus of the Rocks.

"Really great! We had been to the gallery numerous times but our docent really gave us new insight."

A Walk through Western History

During our walk, we will stop to consider works by artists like Raphael, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, discussing their investigations into the human figure and analyzing their use of perspective and light to achieve works of subtle psychological tension and complex but balanced compositions.

We might then move on to discuss how the Baroque artists like Peter Paul Rubens and Caravaggio used compositional devices, such as the structure of the space, the presence of light and shade, and the human figure itself to create dramatic scenes. Alternatively, we could examine the expert handling of paint and subtle control of lighting effects employed by masters of the Dutch ‘Golden Age’ of the seventeenth century, whose portrayal of everyday life was unsurpassed and whose interest in the manipulation of perspectival techniques is epitomized by Van Hoogstraten’s delightful ‘peepshow’ view of a bourgeoisie interior.

Forward in Time

Depending on the interests of the group, we can then explore other periods represented in the Gallery and consider the stylistic and technical devices employed by artists in order to achieve their specific aims, depending on the period, the fashion, or the desires of the patron. We will finish the walk in the late 1800s with works by Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Vincent Van Gogh, and other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists. In light of the works we have considered throughout the tour, we will examine how these artists challenged the traditional conventions of depiction.

Take Aways

This personalized walk through 700 years of Western art and history will supply the visitor with not only a unique visual experience, but also an understanding of key moments, characters, and movements in the history of art.

Looking to explore more art in London? We suggest our Victorian and Albert Museum Tour, or for a more modern look, our Tate Modern Tour.

FAQ

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

The tour takes place inside the National Gallery.

Will you pre-purchase tickets?

The permanent collection of the National Gallery is free to visit, so no tickets are required, however donations are appreciated. If you are interested in seeing one of the temporary exhibitions, we advice you book this tour privately. We will arrange for tickets.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Also, you may consider our family focused, interactive tours.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

No, all the tour takes place inside the museum. The National Gallery is fully accessible and has plenty of places to sit.

Your guide will meet you at a designated central location.
Walk in the footsteps of the rich and powerful. You'll be introduced to the personalities who ruled Great Britain, from Edward the Confessor to Thersea May. You will be taken to see where they lived, worked and played, as well as where many are entombed today.

Start by visiting one of the most well known landmarks in the world, Big Ben and explore the political and social heart of London. Get your camera ready to take pictures of The Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Hear stories of treason, Royal weddings and the political system.

Make your way through one of the most beautiful parks in central London- St James, with its lake and wildlife to keep you entertained. Once you step out of the park you will see Buckingham Palace and St James Palace. Arrive in time for the impressive Changing of The Guard, something no tourist should miss.

Next the tour will make its way to Trafalgar Square where you will see and learn of one of the greatest Naval leaders this country has seen- Admiral Horatio Nelson. At this point there will be time for a short break in an area renowned for street entertainers and world class restaurants and great street food. Possibly head into Soho home to little Italy, and cuisine from around the world. Ask your guide for a suggestion or where the best coffee is found (own expense).

Board one of the famous red London buses (own expense) and pass by the Bankers and lawyers and hop off at the centre of the financial city where St Paul's Cathedral stands.Stroll down the beautiful South bank river passing by William Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, St Paul's Cathedral, The Shard and the greatest food market London has to offer, Borough Market. Here you can treat yourself to great coffee, wine, locally crafted beer or cake (own expense).

Cross the famous London Bridge where there will be a photo opportunity of the most famous bridge in the world, Tower Bridge. Once across, arrive at the 11th century Tower of London where the Crown Jewels are kept and home of the Yeomen Warders or more commonly known as Beefeaters. A place built as a fortress to protect London and England. It is here that the tour will end, your guide will answer any questions and direct you to where you want to go.

See where King Henry VIII wooed his many wives with fast-track entry to Hampton Court Palace. Even better, by purchasing your ticket ahead of time you'll enjoy priority entrance. Don't waste time waiting in lines on vacation!

Flamboyant Henry VIII is most associated with this majestic palace, which he extended and developed after acquiring it in the 1520s. The palace's many royal occupants have ensured the palace has fabulous furnishings, tapestries and paintings. It is set in beautiful formal gardens, which include the famous maze and the Great Vine.

Hampton Court has a designated Family Room, where parents and young children are invited to take a rest from the bustle of the palace. The play equipment is suitable for children aged under five. Family Trails guiding children around the palace are available at the Information Center.

The palace is pushchair friendly and a lift is available if you'd like to access the upper floor without using the stairs.

Hampton Court is just half an hour from Central London by direct train and is a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon out of the city!

At least three hours is recommended for your visit to Hampton Court.

Do you want to visit more Royal sites?
Upgrade to the Royal Palaces Pass, including the Tower of London, Hampton Court and Kensington Palace. Your pass comprehends one visit to each attraction and is valid for two years. You'll have plenty of time to explore the stories and intrigues at each site at your leisure, as part of you own itinerary.

Start off your private trip to London with an introduction to culture and civilizations at the monumental collection of the British Museum, spanning 6000 years of human history. It features items from all over the world like Samurai armor and rare Assyrian lion hunt reliefs. Our guides will take a serious but enjoyable approach towards the museum’s galleries, discussing primitive tribes and fallen empires through a carefully chosen selection of items. You’ll learn about the Mummy of Katebet, the Lewis Chessmen, and the Rosetta Stone – the actual rock, not the language learning program. Walk away with an understanding of what we humans have achieved during our short history and hopefully you’ll be proud to call yourself a part of this incredible species.

After a break for lunch, continue with your guide to understand London through its history as you walk through its urban landscape. Our expert guides will peel back the layers as you walk past some of the most iconic places in central London like Trafalgar Square and the House of Parliament. Learn about Chaucer at Westminster Abbey or maybe bump into the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street. The tour will pass through the sweeping green parks, bustling crowds, and quaint squares that define London. Learn about the monarchs and leaders, like Queen Elizabeth II and Winston Churchill, while also taking advantage of your local guide, who will be more than willing to share a few of the city’s best kept secrets as you explore together.

Arriving in a typical London black taxi, your private driver will collect you from your central London hotel, and then you’ll be on your way. Relaxing in the black cab’s comfortable seats, sit back and watch the festive lights of London pass by as your friendly driver tells you all you need to know about Christmas in this great city.

Your 2.5-hour tour takes in several London neighborhoods, each with their own character and charm. Pass through the upmarket boroughs of Chelsea, Kensington, Mayfair and Belgravia, and see their glossy shops boasting tantalizing Christmas window displays. Each area has its own Christmas light display, and you’ll stop at each to walk around and see them up close while your driver tells you about the history of these much-loved traditions.

In central London, visit several key city attractions. Drive past Westminster, home to the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and see the London Eye, Tower of London and London Bridge, all beautifully illuminated with a warm wintery glow.

Continue to the shopping haunts of Regent Street and Oxford Street, where you’ll see the most impressive Christmas light displays in London! Take a walk around these fashionable high streets, packed with Christmas shoppers and twinkling lights – perfect for a nighttime photo op!

Your tour will either finish back at your hotel or at one of London’s popular Christmas markets – the choice is yours! Perhaps end at the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – the largest Christmas attraction in London, featuring an outdoor ice rink, Christmas market, fun-fair and more. Entry is at your own expense, but it’s a great way to end your evening – strolling around with a mulled wine or visiting Santa’s grotto.

Away from the shiny sites that you find on souvenirs and postcards, join us in the London where street art represents the voice of the people, where gentrification battles the anti-establishment, and where London’s rebellious streak was born and still lives. This is the Real East End.

While other tours here just scratch the surface by skipping over the street art, we’ll put that street art into context, giving you an insight into what was happening in the world when it was created. Yet while the street art is the most visible aspect of this area, to really understand the East End you have to go further.

This tour starts at Liverpool Street Train Station, take the Bishopgate West exit near platform 14 and meet outside in front of the clock tower. Look out for the red umbrella!

This tour is every Wednesday and Saturday at 3.30pm and is available in English and Spanish.

This tour starts at Liverpool Street Train Station, take the Bishopgate West exit near platform 14 and meet outside in front of the clock tower. Look out for the red umbrella!

Away from the shiny sites that you find on souvenirs and postcards, join us in the London where street art represents the voice of the people, where gentrification battles the anti-establishment, and where London’s rebellious streak was born and still lives. This is the Real East End.

While other tours here just scratch the surface by skipping over the street art, we’ll put that street art into context, giving you an insight into what was happening in the world when it was created. Yet while the street art is the most visible aspect of this area, to really understand the East End you have to go further.

This 2½-hour* walking tour covers:

• Old Spitalfields and Petticoat Lane markets 
• The Shoreditch art scene 
• Brick Lane 
• The immigrant generations
• Cockney culture 
• Gangsters and the criminal underworld 
• Radical thinkers and social reformers
• Whitechapel 
• The foundry that produced Big Ben and the Liberty Bell 
• The battle of Cable Street

...and much more!

With a hotel pickup around 9am depending on your location, this private tour sets off in a comfortable new Audi vehicle. Your guide and driver for the day oversees every aspect of all tours personally so you can be assured for a flexible and friendly professional service.

We will arrive at Chartwell around 10.30am after which we can explore some of the wonderful gardens of Chartwell House, some of which designed and created by Sir Winston Churchill himself. Around 11.30am you will get to go inside Chartwell House, exploring the rooms and seeing the house as it was when the Churchill family lived here. During the visit there is the opportunity to see treasures and memorabilia from around the world that were gifted to the leader of the free-world.

Chartwell House as a lovely cafe/restaurant which isn't included in the price but the chance to experience a cream tea and scone shouldn't be overlooked or perhaps a visit to Churchills Art Studio with dozens of his paintings on display is better if you're watching your figure.  Churchill would no doubt have a few words to say on that subject! Finally the drive back to the starting point and you should be back around 3-3.30pm.

Your guide will be practical, punctual, reliable and thrive on the unexpected, welcoming individuals or groups, here on business or for pleasure. Your service can start at your selected time from any central London hotel or any of the major airport hotels. Maximum disposal time is 4 hours per day.

You can personalize your entire day with the assistance of your knowledgeable chauffeur whether its for a business trip to London, meetings, sightseeing or even a shopping day out. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, you can choose what you visit. See famous Big Ben, St Paul Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace.

Blue Badge Guides are often the only external guides permitted to conduct tours at many attractions, including Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London. the guide bring the sites to life, often telling the stories that are not in the guide books or audio tours. With your own knowledgeable and entertaining guide, you can ask questions and find out more about what interests you.

Make the best of your stay in London.

Architectural icon and cultural trendsetter, Bath has been a favorite destination among posh Londoners for over 200 years. While the city may be known primarily for its iconic Roman baths dating back to the AD 60 and icons of Georgian architecture like the Royal Crescent, the story of this city's rise to prominence in the 18th century provides a fascinating frame through which to view the city. This Bath Tour, led by a local historian, explores the many facets of this idyllic South West city, making for a scenic, satisfying day trip from London.

• Bath Tour led by a local historian.
• Explore the Roman Baths, Royal Crescent, and the Circus.
• Perfect day trip from London

Bath Tour

Taking the train from Paddington Station to the city of Bath, we will meet our docent as we disembark, beginning our discussion along the cobbled streets as we walk towards the beautiful Gothic abbey. While admiring the nave and the wonderful west façade of the building, we will consider the role of Bath as an ecclesiastical center and wool trading town during the Middle Ages.

Georgian Architecture

Our day will proceed with a visit to the Royal Crescent and the Circus. Possibly the most famous symbols of Bath, these beautiful Georgian structures tell us the story of the city's renaissance. Here, we will take the opportunity to discuss the architecture, the development of England during the eighteenth century, the importance of landscape architecture, and those characters closely linked to Bath, such as Richard Nash and John Wood the Younger—local entrepreneurs who transformed the city into a fashionable getaway and hub of Georgian architecture.

Looking for another day trip from London? Try our Oxford Tour.

The Roman Baths

We will continue the discussion with another symbol of the city and its origins: the Roman Baths. Here our docent will give an introduction to the museum and how the location of the hot springs determined the foundation of the city in 44 CE. We will discuss the various eras of the building, beginning with the ruins of the Temple of Sulis Minerva under the Grand Pump Room and continuing with the Great Bath. We will also learn how the tradition of using hot springs fell into disuse during the Middle Ages, only to be rediscovered and made fashionable at the end of the seventeenth century.

Please Note: Guiding inside the Roman Baths is not allowed. Our docent will give an introduction outside the Baths but will not be able to discuss the site inside. Audio guides are available.

Please Note: This can be organized privately as a full-day excursion, and may also include other sites like Stonehenge (we also offer a full-day Stonehenge Tour of the South West). In this case, the use of a car and driver will be necessary. On the normal half day, clients depart by themselves from London Paddington station at 10:00 am and arrive in Bath around 11:25 am, where the docent is waiting. We can also arrange private excursions for clients wishing car transportation from London or for visitors staying in Bath. Please contact us for a quote.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

If you're coming from London, the walk begins at the Bath train station and ends back near the station. If you're booking privately and staying in Bath, we will generally start and end near the Roman Baths. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24 hour phone number. From London, Bath is very easy to get to by train and the journey is about 1.5 hours from, leaving every half hour from London Paddington Station.

Do you pre-purchase tickets to the Roman Baths?

The Roman Baths do not allow for tickets to be purchased ahead of time. Tickets can be purchased on arrival at the Roman Baths. Prices are £15 for adults, £13.25 for seniors and students, and £9.50 for kids under 16. Under 6s are free.

Is this tour walking intensive?

We cover about 1.5 miles total at an easy pace.

Notting Hill, is one of the most popular and visited districts in London. With an illustrious history that stretches back hundreds of years. From the time of the Saxons, to the time it was swallowed in to the capital, Notting Hill has seen it all.

From the Potteries and Piggeries to the grand Victorian terrace houses. Notting Hill is home to the rich and famous, has a world renowned market on Portobello Road, was the set for a blockbuster movie and was even the stomping ground for a deathly serial killer.

Notting Hill Taxi Tour has it all; the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Join a local guide to discover London's chic Islington area on this fully personalized, private, 4-hour walking tour. Regularly featured in London's top newspapers and magazines, Islington is home to dozens of charming coffee shops, vintage stores, antique shops, gastropubs, and bookstores – as well as a pretty stretch of the Grand Union Canal. This is a custom tour, so you can tailor the itinerary to suit your personal interests.

You'll meet your guide at 1pm in a cool cafe to discuss your itinerary for the afternoon: just let them know your needs and interests, and they'll customize the tour to suit you. Alternatively, you can follow the sample itinerary below.

Once you're done in the cafe, stroll down a quiet, cobbled alleyway, where you'll find many coffee shops, leading down to a picturesque canal lined with brightly colored barges. Stroll along the canal for a while, stopping in a classic Islington pub around 2:30pm. Take your pick from cask ales, craft beers, and fine wines (own expense), and enjoy them at your leisure.

Next, you'll duck into Islington's pretty residential streets, some of them complete with 18th-century Georgian houses. Discover cute courtyards, handmade furniture shops, and indie boutiques. At 4pm, you'll break for a late lunch: your guide will recommend some of Islington's best eateries, and you can take your pick (own expense).

After lunch, visit London's only gallery dedicated to modern Italian art, from futurist to figurative styles. Your tour will finish around 5pm, when your guide offers tips about how to spend the evening: will you end up at one of Islington's legendary rock “n” roll venues, a gastro-pub, a cocktail bar, or a comedy club?

Leave your central London hotel and travel west with your private driver to the royal town of Windsor, just under an hour’s drive away. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your morning plans based on your preferences – just let your driver know what you want to see in Windsor and then sit back and enjoy the drive!

The affluent town is best known as the site of Windsor Castle – the official residence of the Queen and a place well worth visiting (entry at your own expense). Covering an area of roughly 13 acres (5 hectares), Windsor Castle’s grounds include an impressive list of things to see, like the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel. Your guide will give you plenty of insider tips about the best areas of the castle to visit, should you wish to.

Windsor’s Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily, so you can try to catch it while exploring the town. Usually accompanied by a military band, soldiers march up the high street to Windsor Castle in colorful red tunics and bearskin hats, representing the pomp and ceremony of the British Royal Family that so intrigues visitors to England.

Near the town center is Windsor Great Park -- perfect for a walk or summer’s day picnic! Take a stroll along the famous Long Walk, a 2-mile (3-km) path bordered by symmetrical rows of beautiful trees and neat lawns.

Most itineraries include a drive to Eton, the historic little town just on the other side of the River Thames from Windsor. See Eton College, where Princes William and Harry studied, and browse the town’s endearing collection of independent shops. Alternatively, visit the nearby town of Runnymede, where the Magna Carta was sealed by King John in 1215.

Your independent Windsor tour finishes back at your hotel, or a central London location of your choice.

You'll see Macca's Golden Disc covered office and the flat where he wrote "Yesterday", Ringo's Hampstead house, and the only flat shared by all Fab Four. Then there's Madness' Camden Town and Chalk Farm, the famed "Tin Pan Alley", the Kinks' Muswell Hill "shrine", and Rod Stewart's family home and school.

See where the Floyd's cut "The Wall" and pass Boy George, George Michael and Sting's homes. See where Jimmy Page cut his first disc, where Joe Meek killed his landlady and where The Clash recorded "London Calling". Gig sites and clubs you will see include the legendary Klooks Kleek, the Rainbow, Marquee, 100 Club, Roxy, Ronnie Scotts, Roundhouse and Hope and Anchor.

Other sites covered on this fantabulous tour relate to the Bonzo Dog Doh Dah Band, Graham Bond, Elton John, The Clash, Fairport Convention, Alexis Corner, Ginger Baker, Fairport Convention, Bob Dylan, Eurythmics, Libertines and Iron Maiden.

Tour route is subject to change without notice due to weather or traffic conditions.

Meet your guide in central London, and hop aboard a luxury air-conditioned coach for your tour of the capital’s best Harry Potter film locations. As you travel, your guide will keep you entertained with tales of Harry Potter wizardry and also show off the familiar London attractions that inspired J K Rowling when she wrote her award-winning books.

Hear insider tales of how the films were made from your guide, and chat with fellow muggles in your group about magic and all-things Harry Potter as you see the sites. Visit Number 12, Grimmauld Place, home of the Black family of wizards in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, and as you walk around your guide will regale you with tales of Sirius Black who fought evil Lord Voldemort.

See the site that was used to create the Leaky Cauldron pub, which served as a gateway to Diagon Alley for muggles. Head to Kings Cross Station to see fabled Platform 9 ¾ and pose for pictures in front of the sign as you imagine how Harry leaping through the wall in the first film – Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

After three hours of exploring the magical world that Harry Potter lived, in, your tour finishes at King’s Cross station in central London, and your guide will happily point you in the right direction for your on-going travel.

Discover the vast estate of Blenheim Palace in the Oxfordshire village of Woodstock on a half-day tour from London, traveling by private car. The only non-royal or religious palace in the UK, Blenheim is the ancestral home of the dukes of Marlborough, and was built between 1705 and 1722.

Upon arrival, marvel at the sumptuous interior, and discover a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Once home to Winston Churchill, the palace rooms include the imposing Great Hall and the state apartments. See stunning portraits and tapestries, as well as period furniture and porcelain displays.

Then, wander among more than 2,000 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds. See the water terraces of the Formal Gardens, and take on the challenge of the Marlborough Maze in the Pleasure Gardens. Walks around the grounds will take you to the Pump House, rose gardens, Boathouse, and more.

Enjoy an intimate introduction to England's capital on a private 4-hour tour of London with a private guide and a driver and see some of the city's most iconic sights. Your private guide will collect you from the reception desk of your hotel at 10:00am or you can choose different time if you wish to start later. Discuss the flexible itinerary before you set off. Go to Buckingham Palace - official residence of the Royal Family. Watch the Queen’s Foot Guard march to a military band at the Changing of the Guards ceremony. Marvel at the eye-catching outfits and bearskin hats. Continue to Westminster Abbey - final resting place of kings, queens, poets and statesmen. Admire architectural details of the former Benedictine monastery, including the stone cloisters, Chapter House and Strong Room. Take in the Clock Tower, home to Big Ben, and the marvelous Gothic edifice of the Houses of Parliament. See Banqueting House and No. 10 Downing Street or Trafalgar Square and National Gallery. Famous Tower of London and Tower Bridge, magnificent St Paul Cathedral and many more places.



Then, walk up Whitehall, past Banqueting House and No. 10 Downing Street, to arrive at Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Conclude your tour back in your hotel.

Have you ever wanted to live like a prince or princess? Our London Tour for Kids in Kensington Palace will take us into the former London residence of Queen Victoria and Princess Diana and current home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Here we will learn about the rebellious princess who ran from an arranged marriage into the arms of love, and more. These stories are woven into the fabric of the palace through theatrical performances, art installations, fashion, and music, against the backdrop of the historic State Apartments.

• Learn about Royal London in Kensington Palace
• Interactive, learning activities.
• London Tour for Kids led by a family friendly historian.
• Includes skip-the-line tickets.

"Our children are still chattering about the stories of the king who died on the toilet.”

London Tour For Kids - Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace has a rich history that begins with the first monarchs to live there, William III and Mary II, who invaded England and took the throne in 1689 after the Glorious (and allegedly bloodless) Revolution of 1688. Suffering from severe asthma and in need of clean country air rather than the stench and dirt of London proper, William and his wife rebuilt a small country house which became Kensington Palace, home of monarchs.

Setting the Stage

We will hear about their lives, but also of the lives of their often forgotten consorts, Queen Mary the collector, Sophia Dorothea, who never saw England and was imprisoned in a castle for 30 years, and Queen Caroline, an intellectual and one of the most powerful women in British history. After George II, the official residence of the monarch in London moved to Buckingham Palace, though Kensington Palace remained a home for royals. It was here that Princess Victoria spent her childhood and discovered, early one morning in 1837, that the king had died and that she was now Queen Victoria at the age of 18.

Today, the palace is associated with perhaps its most famous residents, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge William and Kate and their children, George and Charlotte.

Looking for more family-friendly activities? Try out Tower of London for Kids or British Museum for Kids Tours.

Take Aways

With the help of our map, the clues, and the palace guardians we will search for these stories and many more. We will enter the world of Kensington Palace and come away having learned about the lives and stories of this magical residence.

FAQ

Who lives in the Palace? Will we see William and Kate?

Current residents include TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge who moved in to Princess Margaret's former apartment with their son Prince George. They have now been joined by Princess Charlotte, born 02 May 2015. Prince Harry also now lives in a separate apartment within Kensington Palace. Their residences are not open to the public, however, we have caught glimpses of the Royal family in the past.

Can I take pictures inside Kensington Palace?

Yes, photography is allowed in Kensington Palace. Please be mindful of both the delicate fabric of the building and of other visitors.

From Diagon Alley to the Leaky Cauldron take a private black taxi tour of Harry Potter sites by black taxi. Nobody knows the streets of London like a cab driver, and each taxi can hold up to five wizards and/or Muggles. This is your chance to put yourself in the shoes of Harry Potter and friends as you tour the sights of London!

Hop aboard and your expert taxi driver/guide will take you to the sites made famous by the Harry Potter series. First stop is Diagon Alley, where Harry and his friends visit at the start of every school year to pick up their supplies of spell books, robes, wands and other items in preparation for their return to Hogwarts.

Walk through the wall to get to platform 9 and 3/4 at King's Cross Station where the Hogwarts Express departs. Then see the place where Harry and Ron stole Ron's father's flying car. Stand on the bridge where the Knight bus crossed from the third book, Prisoner of Azkaban, and visit the all-new Leaky Cauldron.

Exclusive to Viator - visit the locations of the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix movie!

Follow Harry's flight to London with Dumbledore's Army and see the bridges, buildings and ships they pass along the way. Enter the telephone box that descends into the Ministry of Magic below. Stand right where Harry and Voldemort come face to face for the first time since the Triwizard tournament in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

Last stop is the Headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix, which is also home to Harry's beloved Godfather Sirius Black.

This tour offers fantastic value for money, comfortably seating up to 5 passengers for one fixed price!

Book in advance and jump the queue at the Tower of London, Hampton Court and Kensington Palace. Don't waste time waiting in lines on vacation! Your pass is valid for one visit to each attraction and is valid for two years. You'll have plenty of time to explore the stories and intrigues at each site at your leisure, as part of your own itinerary.

Tower of London
Home to the Crown Jewels, the Tower of London reverberates with dark secrets, where priceless jewels glint in fortified vaults and pampered ravens strut the grounds. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, and enlarged and modified by successive sovereigns, the Tower of London is one of the world's most famous and spectacular fortresses. Discover its 900-year history as royal palace and fortress, prison and place of execution, mint, arsenal, menagerie and jewel house.

Hampton Court Palace
Flamboyant King Henry VIII developed this majestic palace after acquiring it in the 1520s. The palace has fabulous furnishings, tapestries and paintings, and is set in formal gardens, which include the famous maze and Great Vine.

Kensington Palace
Generations of royal women have shaped this stylish palace and elegant gardens, from Queen Mary to Victoria, and more recently, Diana, Princess of Wales. Today, the palace also houses a stunning collection of fashionable formal dress worn for state and royal occasions.

Trade in paintings for mummies and historical artifacts on a tour of the British Museum. The enormous collection spans 6000 years of human history, featuring items from all over the world like Samurai armor and rare Assyrian lion hunt reliefs. Your guide will take a serious but enjoyable approach towards the museum’s galleries, discussing primitive tribes and fallen empires through a carefully chosen selection of items.

You’ll learn about the Mummy of Katebet, the Lewis Chessmen, and the Rosetta Stone – the actual rock, not the language learning program. Walk away with an understanding of what we humans have achieved during our short history and hopefully you’ll be proud to call yourself a part of this incredible species.

Hop into your taxi at 9am at your centrally located London hotel, then spin through the city streets as your guide brings 1960s London to life.

During your 3-hour driving tour, visit key sites of interest including Abbey Road Studios and its famous pedestrian crossing, the Apple headquarters, and the house where Paul wrote ‘I Wanna Hold your Hand’.

View properties that the Beatles owned and worked in, see where John and Yoko met, and where 'Hey Jude' and part of the White Album were recorded. Along the way, listen to music of the era and perhaps sing along to your favourite Beatles records.

Flick through photographs of the Fab Four from their London heyday, then finish your tour in Covent Garden or back at your London hotel.

Choose the departure time most suited to your schedule, then make your own way to St Katharine’s Pier in central London to meet your skipper and guide. Pull on a provided life jacket and waterproof gear, and listen to a short safety briefing. Then, when you’re ready, take a seat aboard your modern RIB and grab hold of the clutch rail as your boat’s powerful engine fires up.
Feel your adrenaline rush as your skipper pulls back the throttle and accelerates into the ‘Thames High-Speed Zone,’ quickly pushing speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. Then, thrill as your boat performs super-fast turns, wave jumps and figures of eight during a 40-minute experience unlike any other Thames River cruise.
Tear through the water and, in between the twists and turns, admire views of top London attractions including Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, the Cutty Sark, Greenwich and The O2 arena. Hear more about the sights you see from your onboard guide’s entertaining commentary.
Feel the wind against your face and tap your feet in time to the iconic British songs blasting out from the boat’s speakers. You’ll also hear the chimes of Big Ben and the unmistakable voices of Sir Winston Churchill and other iconic Britons.
Catch your breath as you slowly cruise through the beautiful Thames Barrier, then hold on tight as you blast back to the original departure point, where your 20-mile (32-km) cruise concludes.

Walking in Shoreditch you see instantly the vibrant and colourful nature of London's East End. Street Art covers walls, buildings railings and lamp posts. The Street Art in Shoreditch is a dynamic everchanging landscape of colour as new street art is created daily. Learn how to photograph street art famous the world over. A professional Fine Art Photographer shows you the best locations and viewpoints to capture these amazing street scenes. Discover new ways to photograph street art by world famous street artists such as Roa, Eine, Stik and Shepard Fairey. We make our way on foot and discover Brick Lane, colourful shop fronts, art galleries and the people of this fascinating part of the East End. Improve your photography skills with one to one tuition for you or exclusive teaching for your group, from your personal photographer. This private photography tour is geared towards the camera you own.

This Street Art Photography Tour is a unique experience of the East End as you are shown how to experience the street scenes through the eyes of a professional Fine Art Photographer. Learn how to take photographs you are proud of which capture your visit to London in a creative and unique way.

We take a short working break for light refreshments and to review photographs. We also review images at regular intervals during the Photography Tour.

Learn how to:

• Compose a street scene
• Use colour in your photographs
• Integrate people in the Street Art
• Create unique images
• Use depth of field to add creative effects
• Use shutter speed to create different effects
• Understand light and how to use it effectively
• Photograph people and places of the East End
• Improve photography skills through understanding your camera

Travel through light and dark sections at speeds of up to 15mph as the slide loops its way around the sculpture 12 times taking in gentle curves, thrilling drops and a tight corkscrew.

The viewing galleries are accessed by two high speed lifts. Innovative screens allow visitors to learn about key sights across the capital from The Shard and St Paul’s to Canary Wharf and the world-famous sporting venues of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. There’s also two incredible mirrors created by one of the sculpture’s creators Sir Anish Kapoor which flip and twist the horizon.

Step in to the decadence and Victorian formality of Leighton House Museum, built in the mid-nineteenth century as the home and studio of artist Lord Frederic Leighton. The newly-restored house and art collection, located in London’s affluent Holland Park neighborhood, showcases not only the objects and spaces that inspired Lord Leighton, but also the beauty of his private world. This Leighton House Tour explores both Leighton's life and the stories behind his beautiful home in the company of a local art historian.

• Small group walks - no more than six people.
• See Leighton’s Arab Hall
• Leighton House tour led by an art historian

Leighton House Tour

In true Victorian style, Leighton was an avid collector of antiquities, and focused much of his attention on the objets d’art that inspired his own creativity and that presented his taste and status to his clients. Leighton trained as a painter in Florence at the Academia di Belle Arti before moving to Paris in 1855, where he rubbed elbows with French Academy painters such as Delacroix and Ingres. By 1860, Leighton returned to London, where he created one of the city’s most remarkable 19th-century estates and a perfect summation of the period’s Orientalist taste.

Leighton's Collection

Leighton brought back the flavor of his travels to his atelier in London, where he incorporated the subtleties of the Orient, the formality of the French, and the opulence of the Italian Renaissance in the adornment of his workspace at his Holland Park home. Accompanied by a local art historian, we'll marvel at the richly decorated interiors of this historic house as we learn more about how Leighton's home reflects the Victorian English society. We'll start in the dining and drawing rooms with an overview of Lord Leighton’s life and career, discussing the relevance of his work to that his contemporaries.

Exotic Tastes

We will then move through the deep blue Narcissus Hall with its mosaic floors and tiled walls into the Arab Hall, the most decorated part of the home. Here, we will look at the fabulous collection of rare Islamic tiles from Damascus and Syria. The walk will continue to the upper floor with a peek into the double-height Studio and the Silk Room, named for its green silk wall coverings and housing the Mashrabiyah window, a decorative screen that allows for hidden glimpses into the Arab Hall. We will end by seeing Leighton’s austere private bedroom.

Looking to see more of London's opulence? Try our Hampton Court Tour or our London City Tour of Kensington and Knightsbridge.

Take Aways

At the end of the walk, we'll come away having experienced unique example of house museum, and having gained a deep understanding of Leighton's life and influence in London and in Europe.

Read more about the restoration on our post detailing the restoration of the Leighton House Museum.

Make your own way to Parliament Square, where a bevy of London’s most famous sights, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, await. Then, meet your guide outside Westminster Abbey and head inside to begin your tour.

Walk along the same aisle that Prince William and Kate Middleton took their first steps on as a married couple, and get up close to the Coronation Chair, where the British Royals have been crowned for hundreds of years. Stroll through the cloisters and see College Garden, thought to be the oldest garden in England, along with the graves of Dickens, Hardy and other famous writers.

After touring the abbey, make the short stroll to the Houses of Parliament, which sits resplendent along the banks of the Thames River. Marvel at the golden spires and statues that stud the building’s grandiose facade, and learn about the much-snapped Elizabeth Tower, which houses the Big Ben bell. Then, continue inside and enjoy a roughly 1.5-hour tour. Take in highlights such as Westminster Hall, Queen’s Robing Room, the Royal Gallery and Lords Chamber, and gain a fascinating insight into Britain’s modern-day politics.

Your tour then concludes outside the Houses of Parliament, leaving you free to continue sightseeing independently or make your own way back to your accommodation.

When people imagine London this is the part of central that usually comes to mind - Big Ben, the Houses of parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square with Nelson's column looking out over it all, and the renowned stone market of Covent Garden. On this tour you will not only get to experience this part of iconic London, but with the perspective of a local host you will also get to enjoy all the lesser known buildings, secluded squares, idyllic less traveled walks, and charming, narrow cobbled streets that hide behind one of the word's most glorious city spaces.

Book this 4 hour meet-up with a local host and the CityUnscripted team will contact you within 24 hours and ask you questions about your preferences and interests. Based on your answers we will create a personalised itinerary for you and assign a like-minded Londoner. He or she will become your local host. You will wander from Big Ben to Covent Garden, all of the bits in between will be built by the CityUnscripted and your local host, based on your preferences.

Below is an example of a sample itinerary:

You’ll begin your tour near the Westminster tube stop, taking in the well-known sights of Big Ben and Parliament.  Your local host will lead you past Westminster Abbey and through two of the areas most charming parks.

Witness Her Majesty’s swans idyllically gliding through the ponds and protected bird sanctuaries of the secluded shrubberies and woodlands. Then your local guide will lead you around the palace stopping to observe if the state flag is flying overhead—an indication that the Queen is in residence, before cutting up to Westminster’s best street for shopping!

Stop for a quick bite or a coffee at an unknown gem of a cafe that is situated above one of the areas largest bookshops, take in the panoramic views of Big Ben and the abbey as you enjoy a cream tea. After your refreshment, you can wander past the upmarket grocers used by the Queen (actually used by her staff), and the most expensive restaurant in London, which fortunately has slightly more affordable lunch options! Your guide will lead you through the seemingly chaotic Piccadilly Circus, which is often compared to New York's Time Square before navigating you down the numerous squares and backstreets that lead to Covent Garden, with its glorious covered market.

In Covent Garden make your way to the two floors of market shops and stalls which are fabulous for discovering unique handmade or designer treasures to take home. From mid-day until the late afternoon the market is surrounded by musicians and street-performers that have to apply to the council to busk at this prestigious and historic venue.

Make your own way to Westminster Pier in central London in the early evening, and hop aboard your cruise boat. Then, take a seat on the open-air upper deck, or settle into one of the window-side seats in the fully-heated lower saloon area.

Feel the rumble of the engines and take in unparalleled views of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as your cruise boat slips away from the pier and out onto the calm waters of the Thames River.

Nab a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and help yourself to the selection of colorful canapés being served by the friendly waiting staff. Then, relax and listen to the live musician play soothing jazz, pop and soul songs as your boat glides down the river toward historical, Royal Greenwich.

With the sun hanging low in the sky, see the landmarks of London bathed in a dreamy, orange glow. Cruise past the London Eye, and see the majestic St Paul’s Cathedral and the famous Elizabethan playhouse, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

Have your camera at the ready as you meander through the cluster of famous sights that surround the London Bridge area. See the aptly-named Gherkin building and the gravity-defying Shard that stands at a dizzying 1,016 feet (310 meters) tall. Then, marvel at the iconic Tower Bridge and be awed by the monumental Tower of London.

Travel past the impressive skyscrapers and twinkling lights of Canary Wharf, London’s financial hub, before admiring the Cutty Sark, the world’s only surviving tea clipper, standing proudly at Greenwich pier.

Perhaps head to the bar on the lower-deck to purchase additional drinks (own expense). Then, as the cruise boat turns and makes its way back to Westminster, return to your seat and watch the lights of London flicker to life as the sky grows ever darker. See the city’s skyline illuminate against the inky backdrop and snap a few final photos, before disembarking at Westminster Pier where your cruise concludes.

See the Itinerary for more information about each tour option.

Head inside the Household Cavalry Museum in London with your entrance ticket, and then browse the extensive museum at your own pace. Open since 2007, the exhibition showcases the history and role of the Household Cavalry — a senior corps formed of the Life Guards and Blues and Royals regiments.

Formed during the reign of King Charles II in the 17th century to act as the king’s protection, the Household Cavalry now has multiple tasks; while best-known for its ceremonial duties guarding Buckingham Palace, the regiment also fulfills a reconnaissance role and assists in combat duties on the front line of battles around the world.

Explore the 18th-century former vaulted stables, and learn all about the Household Cavalry’s close association with the British Royal Family while browsing the museum’s impressive collection of rare military exhibits. High-profile members of the royal family, such as Prince Harry and the Queen, are currently part of the regiment and Prince William also served within it. Read first-hand accounts about the soldiers’ rigorous training schedules, see pictures from battles, and learn about units deployed in active service as international peacekeepers in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Look into the working stables of the Queen’s Life Guard through a glass screen and see today’s troopers working with their horses. If you want, try on parts of the regiment’s uniform and pose for a photo! Make use of a state-of-the-art handheld multimedia guide as you walk around, and enjoy a greater insight into the history and accomplishments of the elite Household Cavalry.

Many people find two hours sufficient to look around the museum, but your ticket enables you to spend as long as you like inside. There are no cafes on site, but there is an extensive gift shop if you wish to shop for souvenirs and postcards.

Take a trip through the beautiful English countryside and visit the gorgeous Hatfield House estate, home of the legendary Queen Elizabeth I, just a short drive north of London in Hertfordshire County.

After being collected from your accommodation in London or at a convenient meeting point in the city, you will take a short but scenic drive to Hatfield House. Stroll through its formal period gardens, featured in many famous films through the years, take a walk through the vast acres of woods and landscaped gardens, or visit one of the several exhibitions at the estate.

If you'd like a whole day out, consider adding the nearby Knebworth House to see a totally different style of country house.

Your quest is to uncover some of the most daring and cunning Pokémon, some that hide craftily in plain sight throughout London and others that are trickier to locate. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, you can choose what you visit. See famous Big Ben, St Paul Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace. Discover London’s hidden riverside gems on this fascinating tour.

Join your driver guide for an in-depth views of London’s magnificent landmarks like Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Your first target area will be among the statues, fountains and parks of London and historic places of London. Your guide will make sure you'll encounter plenty of Poke Stops to fill up on Pokeballs all along the way. Throughout your London Pokémon hunt, you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and timeless charm. Finally, your guide will take you back to your hotel.

From ancient Roman ruins to Norman architecture, London is littered with reminders of its past. However, in order to see the full historical breadth of London's buildings, one must look closely. As a complement to London City Tour, this Hidden London Tour focuses on the hidden physical remains of London’s past rather than the more obvious sites and the spaces between. While London been on the brink of destruction time and again—be it from the Great Fire or the Blitz—remnants of London's past persist in the least likely of places.

• Hidden London Tour led by a historian or archaeologist.
• Small group walks—6 people max.
• Insider's guide to London's hidden architecture, from ancient Rome to the Normans.

Hidden London Tour

We begin our walk at the Museum of London, a few minutes away from one of London's most impressive hidden sites. The remains of the western gate of the Roman fort that once stood here, something not normally accessible to the public, now incongruously sit within a parking garage. While here, we will look at the remains of the Roman city wall and the signs of its continued use up to the eighteenth century. We will then walk to the area near the church of St. Bartholomew the Great, an important part of medieval London. Here, we will visit the church and find ourselves surrounded by the perfect twelfth-century Norman architecture that survived both the 1666 fire and the Blitz.

Onto Newgate

Next, we will walk to the western gate of the Roman and medieval city, Newgate, an area once infamous for its prison. From here we may take a short stroll to St. Etheldreda’s, another remarkable medieval survival where the crypt and chapel still stand. Depending on time, we may move to the Silver Vaults, which was built as a Victorian safe deposit but is now a set of underground silversmiths and shops, and is little known outside the silver-dealing world. 

Looking to explore more of the city's buildings? Try our London Architecture Tour, or learn about London's most important architect on our Christopher Wren Churches Tour.

Lincoln's Inn and Friaries

Across the road lies the medieval Lincoln’s Inn, one of the four remaining ‘Inns of Court’ in London, where aspiring lawyers lived and learnt their trade. This particular inn, which extends over a sprawling 11 acres, was constructed in stages between the fifteenth and nineteenth centuries, providing an overview of the many architectural styles that were popular during this period. Further along Fleet Street lay the large Carmelite and Dominican Friaries, now recalled in the street names Whitefriars and Blackfriars, respectively. We will see the remains of the former under a modern office building and again a short walk away in a seventeenth-century pub. This pub, the Olde Cheshire Cheese, is notable for its age and its former regulars: Samuel Johnson, G. K. Chesterton, and Charles Dickens, to name but a few. You can have a drink or eat here, which will provide a suitably energetic end to the walk.

Take aways

At the end of our walk, we will have explored some of the little-known and fascinating buildings and architectural remains of the city, and will have a deeper understanding of London's history.

FAQ

Where does the tour begin? Where does it end?

It begins near the Museum of London, and ends at the Olde Cheshire Cheese pub. Your confiramtion email will have the exact meeting point, and our 24 hour number.

Is this walk suitable for me if I am claustrophobic?

Yes, we don't visit any site that is in a particularly narrow or small, however we do go down several flights of stairs and through some uneven pavements.

Can I take pictures during the tour?

Absolutely yes!

What kind of shoes and clothes should I wear for this tour?

Weather can be quite variable in London, so we suggest comfortable shoes and layers, possibly with some kind of waterproof item.

This tour is ideal for those who just don't have the time for our full day tour. The tour starts at 12:30 pm daily and we meet at the Sir Walter Raleigh. The first venue on the tour is the Greenwich Royal Observatory dating back to 1675 and designed/built by Sir Christopher Wren.

Stand at the centre of world time and space, on the prime meridian of the globe. We take you right into Flamsteed House where the apartments have been very well conserved and cared for. It is here that you will see the clocks of the genius John Harrison - the man who solved the longitudinal problem after a life-long saga.

Then head down the hill to the National Maritime Museum, largest of its type in the world. Highlights include Turner's monumental painting " Battle of Trafalgar ", Prince Frederick's royal barge, etc. There is a smart cafe located in the Museum, where we break for tea/coffee (own expense).

Onwards to the only teaclipper to have survived: Cutty Sark. After a seven year long, £52 million pound restoration she looks very fine. We take you right on board, into the cargo hold that held most of the 10,000 tea chests enroute from Shanghai to London during her hay day.

The next port of call is the Old Royal Naval College which is now the campus of the University of Greenwich. Your guide takes you to the famous Queen's Gate where Queen Elizabeth would greet her favourites such as Sir Francis Drake returning to England with Spanish gold and silver. Visit the magnificent Painted Hall where movies such as 'Thor 2' were filmed.

The tour normally ends by 4 pm at the Greenwich Market which has been onsite since the 1830's and has been transformed into a great London market complete with art shops, boutiques and fantastic street food!

Upon entering, plot your itinerary through the diverse complex. See the Tiger Territory, designed to mimic the tropical foliage of the Island of Sumtran to make the zoo's tigers feel at home.

Then hit the Beach and join London’s biggest penguin colony. Penguin Beach recreates a South American beach landscape in the heart of London, with stunning colonies of around 200 Macaroni and Humboldt penguins. The exhibit features a large pool with underwater viewing areas so you can see how these flippered friends fly under the waves. And a larger demonstration area with seating turns feeding time into an even bigger spectacle than before.

Meet the giant Galapagos tortoise that can live for over 150 years, and carry around huge, bony shells that they can hide inside if they feel threatened. Visit the fantastic Blackburn Pavilion and learn how Darwin's contemporary, John Gould, identified the differences between species of finches that Darwin brought back from the Galapagos, helping Darwin formulate his theories on evolution.

You can observe the behavior of the apes in the award-winning Gorilla Kingdom, and also come face to face with a group of Bolivian Squirrel monkeys in conditions akin to their natural habitat.

Travel into Africa and marvel at the giraffes via a raised viewing platform or check out the playful yet lethal hunting dogs. Be sure to observe the komodo dragons prowling their state-of-the-art lair, landscaped to mimic a dry river bed.

ZSL London Zoo is a leader in conservation breeding and reintroduction and, with over 1 million visitors a year, provides a unique opportunity to engage and inspire visitors of all ages. Opt to upgrade to a skip-the-line ticket from February to October.

Enjoy an hour or two exploring this hidden historical gem in the heart of London.  At 25 Brook Street, make your way up the wonky, 250 year old  staircase and step back in time into George Frideric Handel's music rooms where he composed, rehearsed, performed and conversed with the leading musical luminaries of the baroque age. This is where he wrote Messiah, and these are the windows from which he threatened to throw opera stars when they refused to sing his arias.  

Musicians are often found practicing on one of the harpsichords throughout the day, offering a beautiful atmospheric accompaniment as you make your way around Handel's house - don't miss the adjoining current exhibition celebrating the famed baroque tenor John Beard.  

Making your way up to the second floor, you will find yourself in Handel's dressing room and the beautiful bedroom in which he eventually died of old age after 35 years at the heart of English music.  

On the third floor of the museum, you will find yourself transported to 60s London and the height of its swinging heyday.  The city which embraced one of the greatest guitarists the world has ever seen and made him famous, London, held a special place in Jimi Hendrix's heart and he described the flat he lived in with his girlfriend Kathy at 23 Brook Street as the first place he'd ever truly called home. Painstakingly recreated from intensive research and with Kathy's invaluable help on numerous tiny details, a short step away is the room made famous in copious film footage and photographs where Jimi lived, loved and played in 1969 before his tragic death just a year later at the height of his fame at the age of just 27.

Enjoy the ultimate sightseeing and Harry Potter tour in London, mingle with the Muggles all day! This is an all day London sightseeing tour with Harry Potter's London film sites included. Fantastic fun and value for the whole family, this is the best of both worlds!

London Sightseeing- your guided tour takes you past many of the major sights and landmarks of London. We will see and get photos outside, Westminster Abbey,  Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus and Eros.  Downing Street, Harrods, London Eye, the Tower of London,(exterior only)  visit Shakespeare's Globe theatre and some Hidden treasures in London that very few visitors get to see!

Harry Potter- during this wonderful London day tour we shall enter the world of Harry Potter and see the following: visit Gringotts Bank (exterior only) walk over the Knight Bus bridge. Walk the avenue to the Leaky Cauldron(film 1). Stand at the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron (film No 3) have a photo outside Third Hand book emporium. See the bridge which is destroyed by Death Eaters. Follow Harry's complete flight  along the River Thames on his broomstick.  Visit Grimmauld Place (yes it does exist if you know where to look. No moving houses though) See where Harry actually disappears at Kings Cross Station Platform 9 ¾ . See photos taken of the PROPS used in the station scenes.

Then it's off to get a picture under the sign 9 ¾. See where Harry and Ron steal the flying car from. Take a photo inside the train station used for exiting to the Ministry of Magic. Walk the footsteps of Harry and Mr Weasley to the Ministry of Magic. See where Ron spies on the ministry. Your expert Harry guide will take you to all of these sites and more. On route there is time to ask many questions regarding the films, there is even a small quiz to keep you on your toes.

Also included are scenes from film 7 parts 1 and 2. You will also be shown places from earlier films that ended up on the cutting room floor. As if this was not enough you will visit some secret places, items and enjoy surprises that you will love! During the tour you will have time to purchase genuine Harry Potter merchandise, just ask your guide. This is a great unique fun tour for all the family.

Meet the tour guide at The Rugby Store located in Twickenham’s south stand, it’s recommended you arrive a little early to have time to look around the store first. Then set off on your behind-the-scenes tour of the world’s most famous rugby stadium which hosted 10 matches in Rugby World Cup 2015 including the thrilling final.

Twickenham is easily reached by public transport from central London stations including London Waterloo, Clapham Junction, Vauxhall and Richmond. Alternatively the 281 bus route stops outside the south stand. By car the stadium is located off the A316 and has free onside car parking.

The tour visits many areas of the building not open to the public on match days including into the player’s tunnel and dressing room where you can follow in the footsteps of your favorite players both past and present. It doesn’t have to be all about rugby though, look out for the stadiums collection of paintings and sculptures and learn about the many concerts held at Twickenham from the Rolling Stones to Bon Jovi and Rhiannon.

At the end of the tour the guide will leave you at the entrance to World Rugby Museum; this give you freedom to look around at leisure. Learn how a school boy game became the global professions sport it is today. Did William Webb Ellis really run with the ball? See a glittering array of trophies including the intricately detailed Calcutta Cup made from 270 silver rupees and in the interactive Play Rugby Zone put your rugby skills to the test. There is also plenty of film footage to watch as you relive some of rugby’s most famous moments.

Twickenham is a working stadium, there is always activity going on, from preparation for an event to pitch maintenance. This can often add to the tour experience and you never know what or who you may see. If you fancy a sit down at the end of the visit refreshments can be purchased from the Café Bar in the Marriott Hotel located in the south stand.

This is an exceptional photography tour which is private to you and your group. Photograph London with an expert photographer during this private tour. Learn how to capture the best compositions with a professional photographer to guide you.

The aim of this tour is to empower your photography with expert tuition and tips from a professional photographer. Teaching is exclusive to you and your group and is geared towards the camera you own. Your photographer knows the best locations and viewpoints to guide you to.

Walking at a leisurely pace explore from the outside the iconic architecture of Southwark Cathedral. Learn how to set your camera to take different shots and make subjects come alive as you experiment with different angles of view.  Marvel at the vibrancey of Bankside as we make our way along the route towards St Paul's Cathedral.  Throughout this route there is something to admire and photograph.

Photograph people and places along this colourful route.  Explore the imposing structures of the Golden Hind Galleon II, The Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, the Shard, Tower Bridge and Millennium Bridge all with stunning views over the River Thames. This is an outstanding photography tour from which to explore and discover the secrets of the River Thames with great London views and iconic landmarks.

Take time to discover the landscaped courtyards of Southwark and St Paul's Cathedrals.  Explore with your personal photographer quirky side streets and small markets and small landscaped gardens within walking distance of the Cathedrals.

You take a short working break for refreshments and to review progress before making our way across to St Paul's.

Set in one of the world's most iconic botanical landscapes and housing the largest collections of living, painted, and dried plants, the Kew Royal Botanical Gardens are a sensory embodiment of the global reach and passion for discovery that defined the British empire in the 18th and 19th centuries. On this Kew Gardens Tour, we'll discuss the force behind the development of these gardens as well as the present and future of Kew, as a center of research into plant genetics and participation in international conservation efforts.

The Victoria and Albert Museum possesses one of the world's greatest collections of decorative art and design in the world, with a collection running the gamut from preparatory materials for the Sistine Chapel to exquisite Islamic art, like the Ardabil Carpet. Our Victoria and Albert Museum Tour, led by a local historian, explores not only the history of the V&A, delving into its origins in the 1851 Great Exhibition, but provides a comprehensive look at a few of the most important galleries in this expansive museum.

• Victoria and Albert Museum Tour led by a design and history expert
• Small group V&A tours—6 people max
• Discover one of the most diverse fine art collections in the world.

Victoria and Albert Museum Tour

After receiving a brief overview of the museum's history outside the building, our tour will continue inside the museum with a visit to the famous Raphael Cartoons (1515-16), which were created by Raphael as preparatory drawings for tapestries intended to hang in the Sistine Chapel (nota bene: for those also headed to Italy, we offer a Vatican Museum Tour), but which today are considered works of art in their own right. Raphael's drawings depict scenes from the lives of St. Peter and St. Paul; we will analyze each in some depth with a discussion of the history of the cartoons, the Renaissance ideals in art, and the relationship between painting and tapestry weaving. We will continue by discussing the history of art and sculpture in the sculpture galleries with works by the Baroque sculptor Bernini, the neoclassical artist Canova, and the late-nineteenth century sculptor Rodin before moving on to the Cast Courts, which contain casts of artworks and objects from around Europe. The collection includes casts of Michelangelo's sixteenth-century 'David', of the first century Trajan's Column, and of the spectacular sixteenth century tomb of St. Sebaldus. Here, we will discuss the Victorian interest in collecting casts.

A Global Collection

From the Cast Court, we'll move to the British Galleries, which chart the changes in British art and design from the Tudor monarchs in the 1500s to Queen Victoria in 1901, in order to consider in greater depth how different styles arose over the centuries and how the social, cultural, and historical contexts influenced these changes. We will focus on a diverse array of objects such as the sixteenth-century 'Great Bed of Ware', the writing box belonging to Henry VIII, the eighteenth-century Rococo music room from Norfolk House, and the Arts and Crafts style as represented by William Morris in the late nineteenth century.

The Islamic Gallery

We will then compare this emphasis on style and design in Western European production with a visit to the Islamic Gallery, where we will focus on the sixteenth-century 'Ardabil carpet' in relation to the function and design of the art object in the Islamic world as well as the tension that developed between art production and science. Here, we will also explore the effects of trade and cultural exchange on design.

Take Aways

Then, depending on time and interest, we can explore the extensive fashion collection (on which we also offer a Victoria and Albert Museum Fashion Tour), visit the exquisite jewelry galleries, or alternatively discuss the form and function of glass over the centuries.

 FAQ

What's in the V&A museum?

The Museum’s collections span over 2000 years of human creativity, in virtually every medium and drawn from across Europe, the Middle East, India, China, Japan and many other parts of the world.

Is it true that we can see a replica of the Trajan’s Column?

Yes, the tallest object in the collections is a plaster cast of Trajan’s Column, reproduced from the marble original in Rome. It is displayed in two separate towers which if put together would reach 35.6 m high.

Do we need to pay a ticket to get in?

No, unless you want to see one of the temporary exhibitions, the museum is free. However, donations are greatly appreciated.

Make the most of your visit to London and take this private tour to the Victoria and Albert museum (V&A) with a Blue Badge certified guide. This option guarantees you a more personal attention and service from your guide.

You will be led to the most important areas of the museum with a vast and detailed explanation of the pieces and exhibitions it has to offer.

The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art and design; housing a permanent collection of over 2.3 million objects that span over 5,000 years of human creativity. The Museum holds many of the UK’s national collections and houses some of the greatest resources for the study of architecture, furniture, fashion, textiles, photography, sculpture, painting, jewellery, glass, ceramics, book arts, Asian art and design, theatre and performance.

The V&A was originally established in 1852, following the enormous success of the Great Exhibition of the previous year. Since its foundation, the Museum and its collections have continued to grow into one of the world’s greatest resources of art and design, housed in one of the finest groups of Victorian buildings in Britain.

Your Blue Badge guide is an official, professional tourist guide of the United Kingdom, recognized by local tourist bodies throughout the UK, and by Visit Britain as one of Britain’s official tourist guides.

Your visit will start meeting the guide outside of the Museum, where you will be provided a brief explanation of the museum; next, you’ll be taken to the most important expositions. After 1.5 hours of the tour you will have free time to spend it at your own leisure!

Your guide and driver will join you at your departure location of choice, such as your hotel or apartment. Once seated in the comfortable vehicles, relax with air conditioning, and enjoy the sights as your private guide gives you an unforgettable tour of the city.

Your day is completely flexible allowing your to choose what you want to see - if you are unsure, let your guide amaze you! With a separate guide and driver, you can leave the vehicle at any point to explore London's most quaint areas on foot. 

A sample itinerary could include:
Journey through the West End of London, enjoying London's theatre and cinema scene at Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. Enter the Westminster area and take in the wonders of Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the London Eye. Enjoy the breathtaking Changing of the Guard Ceremony with your guide who knows the best secret locations away from the crowds.

Next, stop for a bit of luxury shopping at Bond Street or Harrods, followed by lunch made fresh at a 1000-year-old market or at a 500-year-old authentic London pub. Journey back to the beginning of London and hear about The City and its fascinating stories including the Great Fire and the Plague. All the while, a stopover at St Paul's Cathedral will be sure to amaze you. Cross the Millennium Bridge and see Shakespeare's Globe Theatre.

Finally, conclude the day as you encounter the stunning Tower of London, London Bridge and Tower Bridge, followed by drop-off at your location of choice - a restaurant, museum, your hotel or shopping. Get tips and recommendations for the rest of your stay such as the best places to eat, how long you should spend at the British Museum or what to see and do in Camden.

Meet your guide in Southwark, central London, and after listening to a quick safety briefing, put on your helmet, hop on your bike and set off on your way. Following your guide, pedal toward the River Thames, getting a feel for the mystery and romance of London’s riverside as the sun goes down.

Pass the iconic London Eye – a monument that was built to celebrate the Millennium but proved so popular that it had to stay – and then work your way east in the direction of the City of London, stopping every so often to soak up the evening sights and relax. Continue toward London Bridge, the city’s best-known river crossing, discovering the origins of the nursery rhyme London Bridge is Falling Down. Cross beautiful Tower Bridge – a testament to both the Victorian’s grandeur and ingenuity – and explore the north side of the River Thames

About half-way through your tour, stop for a well-earned break in one of the city’s historical pubs for a drink, and then continue your tour on the north side of the river. Cruise past the Monument to the Great Fire of London (known to Londoners as simply, the Monument) and cycle around the Tower of London, hearing tales of Beefeaters, ravens and glistening Crown Jewels. Pedal to Leadenhall Market – one of London’s hidden 14th-century gems – and hear how it featured in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

Cross the river again and see Shakespeare’s Globe -- a beautiful reconstruction of the Elizabethan playhouse where Shakespeare’s plays were originally performed – before returning to Southwark under the shade of the moonlight. Your bike tour ends here, after four hours of cycling London’s city streets.

Meet your guide in central London, and then head inside the prestigious British Museum for your 2.5-hour tour. A veritable treasure trove, the museum showcases the story of human culture and history, and is home to artifacts from around the world, not just Britain!

Some 70 galleries comprise the museum’s vast exhibition space, so follow your guide to discover its highlights while listening to entertaining anecdotes, trivia and history. Headphones are provided so you can hear clearly at all times. Athenian marble, Egyptian mummies and English treasures from burial sites at Sutton Hoo — said to date to Anglo-Saxon times — are just a handful of the artifacts seen.

Hear of the real Rosetta Stone, which played an important part in deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphics, and gaze in awe at the gigantic Parthenon Frieze. Measuring 525-foot (160-meters) long, the attention-grabbing sculpture once stole the limelight in the Acropolis of Athens. Today, the sculpture is said to be one of the most important surviving relics of classical Greece. Other highlights of your tour include the Egyptian Rooms with their impressive collection of mummies. Learn about the importance of death and the afterlife in Ancient Egyptian culture while viewing human history in person.

Your tour finishes inside the museum, but you can stay inside for longer, if you wish, to view the exhibits independently. A good selection of restaurants and cafes are on site, if you want to eat after your tour at your own expense.

Join us on a private tour to the beautiful and entirely unique Eltham Palace.  For centuries a Royal Palace sat atop of a hill overlook beautiful countryside and more latterly in the leafy London suburbs.

There is nowhere else quite like Eltham Palace.  Situated in SE London, it is a unique marriage between a medieval and Tudor palace and a 1930s millionaire’s mansion. From the 14th to the 16th century it was an important royal palace, where monarchs often stayed and hunted in the surrounding parks.

Much of Eltham Palace fell into disuse and large sections of it had to be taken down but happily the Great Hall remains and it is one of the finest in the country, up with that at Westminster Palace and Hampton Court Palace.

What really makes Eltham Palace unique however is that after centuries of neglect, Eltham was leased to Stephen and Virginia Courtauld in 1933 and they spent £20 million on building a state of the art home here that incorporated the Great Hall with their magnificent Art-Deco creation. The result was a masterpiece of 20th-century design.

Finally, Eltham surrounded by beautiful gardens, a wonderful moat and ancient brick bridge which anywhere else would be a tourist destination in its own right.

The tour will end with us returning by car back to our starting point.

As one of the world’s leading fashion capitals, London has an exciting shopping scene that’s particularly well known for its uber-chic department stores. Dotted around London, the stores can be tricky to find and working out the logistics from one to another can be even trickier. Luckily, with this private tour, you’ll have a knowledgeable private chauffeur to give you insider tips and drive you to the shops that you simply can’t miss!

After picking you up from your hotel, your chauffeur will discuss with you about suggested shops, and then you’ll be on your way. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your day of shopping based on your preferences – let your chauffeur know where you want to go and then sit back and enjoy the ride.

Perhaps head to Harrods in upmarket Knightsbridge. Retailing in the same location since 1849, the palatial store remains unrivaled as the must-visit shop in London. It offers both first-rate service and an extensive product range -- selling everything from haute couture to ice cream.

Fortnum and Mason is probably the best-known British food store, having operated for centuries on London’s Piccadilly. Besides being the largest quality food retailer in London, the shop has a gorgeous interior; gaze up at its glittering chandeliers as you walk along its luxuriously carpeted aisles, shopping for quintessentially English teas and picnic hampers.

Be sure to check out the shopping mecca that is Oxford Street, home to the flagship Topshop store, all the best British-brand chain shops and, of course, Selfridges – another of the world’s finest department stores, symbolized by its iconic yellow shopping bag. Nearby is Liberty, the Tudor-style building with its tantalizing window displays to tempt you inside.

After eight hours of shopping in London’s finest shops, your private chauffeur will drop you and your shopping bags back at your hotel – the perfect ending to your perfect shopping day.

Old Father Thames is the longest and best-known river in England and has inspired many a writer and artist. It also provides a kind of spinal cord to the city, along which is hung the history of London. During this two-and-a-half-hour Thames River tour we'll join a local historian for a leisurely stroll along the Thames, following the course of the river through the heart of London, and acquiring a solid overview of the city and her history. This is one of several orientation tours of London that we offer.

• An introduction to London
• Good for first time visitors
• Historian led
• Thames River tour from Tower Bridge to Parliament

Thames River Tour

This tour is designed to provide the perfect introduction to London, giving an overview of London's history and developmen. We will use the Thames River as a thread to connect places and events. We will begin at Tower Bridge and make our way to Parliament, covering about about 2.5 miles in all. As we walk we'll explore a wide range of themes tied together by the central idea that the city and the river have mutually shaped each other over time.

Most of our walk will follow the recently regenerated and pedestrianized South Bank, where we will pass the rebuilt Shakespearean Globe Theatre, the ruins of a medieval palace, and the former Bankside Power Station, which has been transformed into London's Tate Modern museum. (Note, you may wish to pair this tour with our Tate Modern Tour.

Big Stink to Bigwigs

Royal palaces and modern government buildings illuminate the river's role as a power base; old warehouses and wharfs illustrate the working river; and bridges tell the story of the development of areas previously divided by the river. In addition, we will chart how London has cleaned up its act—and its river—since the ‘Big Stink' of 1858, allowing the Thames to once again become a diverse wildlife habitat with over 120 species of fish and an ever-growing population of Chinese mitten crabs.

We will finish our walk at one of the latest riverside attractions, the London Eye, where we may want to retrace our steps and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the river from one of the world's tallest ferris wheels. (Tickets not included.)

An Introductory Walking Tour of London

This walking tour is designed to provide a basic introduction to London from the unique vantage point of the South Bank. The format is open ended and largely designed around answering questions and giving tools for thinking about London during the rest of your visit. To learn more, take a look at this review.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

Generally speaking, the walk begins near the Tower of London. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number. The walk ends near the London Eye.

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

Since this is an orientation, we do not include the interiors. You will see several landmarks from the outside, such as the Tower of London, Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, St. Pauls, Westminster, and the London Eye.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

We'll be walking at a leisurely pace. Overall the route is about 2 miles.

Make your own way to Shrek’s Adventure! London, located on the South Bank near top attractions such as the London Eye, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and London Dungeon.

With your ticket in hand, enter Shrek’s Adventure! London for a magical experience that lasts just over an hour. Walk and ride through this indoor attraction, and enjoy a virtual bus trip above London with Donkey as your tour guide.

Hear stories and participate in ten fairy-tale themed shows along the way. Each of the live shows has a challenge to complete before moving on to the next step. Be sure to stay on the lookout for familiar movie characters such as Shrek, Donkey, Fiona and Puss in Boots too.

At the end of the tour, meet some of your favorite characters from Madagascar, How to Train Your Dragon and Kung Fu Panda. You can even learn some martial arts moves from Mr Shifu and join the other characters for more fun before heading to your next destination at your leisure.

Start your visit to Madame Tussauds by sneaking past the paparazzi to attend a photo shoot with Kate Moss. Mingle with Nicole Kidman, Morgan Freeman, Colin Firth and all the other A-list stars in your very own premier party before taking your challenge in the Big Brother Diary Room. Then, cuddle up next to Kim Kardashian for the ultimate selfie.
Filled with 14 exciting, interactive zones and the Star Wars and Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie experiences, Madame Tussauds London combines glitz and glamour with incredible history with hundreds of wax figures.
Step into our interactive sports zone alongside David Beckham and Usain Bolt. Start your royal experience with a once-in-a-lifetime audience with Her Majesty the Queen, then meet other world leaders like Barack Obama, David Cameron and Angela Merkel.
Relax in a black cab and relive London’s rich history before entering the spectacular and exclusive Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie experience. This exhibition brings to life your best loved Super Heroes through a mix of 4D animation, interactive themed areas and startlingly realistic Madam Tussauds wax figures, such as Spider-Man and the Incredible Hulk.

 From January 2017, Madame Tussauds London will feature a brand new Theatrical Experience: an adventure within the mysterious world of Sherlock Holmes, fusing illusion, theatre and spectacle. Access to the all new Sherlock Holmes Experience can be purchased on site for £5 and will be subject to availability at time of visit. 

Cap your visit at the immersive Star Wars at Madame Tussauds experience. Clash lightsabers with Anakin Skywalker; seek out Yoda in the swaps of Dagobah; join the captive Princess Leia and Jabba the Hutt in his Throne Room; see the fiery lava of Mustafar as Anakin turns to the dark side; and much more.

See the world’s largest LEGO® exhibition inspired by DC Characters. Legendary LEGO® artist Nathan Sawaya took London by storm in 2014 with his extraordinary exhibition THE ART OF THE BRICK®. Now he returns to the UK on March 1st with his brand new exhibition inspired by  the world’s most popular and enduring super heroes and villains. Walk through the exhibition "The Art of the Brick: DC Super Heroes" that includes over 120 large scale exhibits made from over 2 million LEGO® bricks, all displayed in a purpose built space on London’s South Bank. Your experience could take anywhere from 60 - 90 minutes. This is for one admission ticket only. Transportation and other accommodations are not included.

Your admission ticket will grant you access to the event, which is located at Doon Street Car Park. Hours of operation are:

Sunday – Wednesday: 10am – 6pm (last entry at 5pm)
Thursday: 10am – 8pm (last entry at 7pm)
Friday and Saturday: 10am – 7pm (last entry 6pm)

There will be space in the reception area to leave prams (strollers), but these will be left at the owner’s risk. There are toilets located in the exhibition area. There will be a small coffee shop on site in the interactive zone. There is disabled access to the exhibition as well. There is a public car park at the National Theatre opposite the entrance to the exhibition.

Expect to spend about 60 - 90 minutes at the event.

Experience the whole of St Paul's Cathedral – a mainstay of the London skyline – on a self-guided tour. Designed by famous English architect Sir Christopher Wren, the current cathedral was completed in 1708, after the Great Fire of London ruined Old St Paul’s in 1666. The cathedral has always been associated with significant British events, including the wedding of Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer, Diamond Jubilee celebrations for Queen Victoria and an 80th birthday service for Queen Elizabeth II.

With your entrance ticket, head inside and pick up your audio/video guide, available in nine languages (see below for a list). You’ll tour the cathedral on your own, listening to the audio commentary and using your touch screen for historical tidbits and information about the significance of the cathedral throughout English history.

Begin in the cathedral’s crypt, with its memorials, tombs and monuments of important Brits like Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington. Climb upstairs to the Whispering Gallery - giving you a magnificient view of the cathedral - the exterior Stone Gallery and eventually the Golden Gallery with its panoramic views of the capital.

As you walk around, marvel at the soaring dome, the glittering mosaics, the intricate stone carving and the breathtaking view down the central nave toward the quire aisle.

Your tour will start at your designated pick up point within central London. Once the tour has finished you can either be dropped back to the same location or to one of your choosing within Central London. 

The 3 hour tour would take in: Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, Wellington Arch and Horse Guards.
The 4 hour tour would take in: St Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament (inc. Big Ben) and Westminster Abbey.

The 6 hour tour would take in:  The Tower of London, St Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament (inc. Big Ben) and Westminster Abbey. This tour option includes a 45 minute break.

Please note: all tours are traffic permitting

“Shaken but not stirred" we will enter the world of James Bond. See Ian Flemings house, MI6, MI5. We shall visit James Bond film location sites all around town. We shall also find out about real spies and how they worked and where they met.This is a fun packed family friendly tour taking in the Sites of London and the man himself James Bond.See the shops where Bond has his shirts made, his cigarettes, and of course where he would buy his suits and hats. Not forgetting as a military man we shall see where his uniforms were made.Stand outside Blades Fencing Club, Le Circle Casino, The Hotel Europe, and lots more. Real spies play a big part of this tour as well. We shall see drop zones and meeting places, homes and offices of spies that lived and worked around London. We shall see just how close film spies and real spies worked. Did you know that St Petersburg Square were scenes in London? If this was not enough we will stop at the original Bar where the "Shaken not stirred" was first uttered. Besides all of this there is a wealth of Locations that we will stop at for photos and where your guide will explain from what Bond film they came from. We would tell you more, but it is a SECRET !! You now can change direction should you wish as we can finish the tour at the Bond in Motion Exhibition. Here you can explore and see every Bond car and gadget. This is an option and the exhibition does have a entry charge

DISCLAIMER: Any James Bond Tours operated by Capital Taxi Tours Ltd are not official events and not endorsed, sanctioned or in any other way supported, directly or indirectly by EON Productions, MGM, United Artists or Danjaq or other studios connected with films featured on this tour, nor The James Bond book publishers or the estate of Ian Fleming. All rights to the series of “James Bond” books are the property of the estate of Ian Fleming.

This 3-hour private tour will take you through the centre of London, taking in sites such as Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, the London Eye, Trafalgar Square and the maze of streets making up the Soho district and Piccadilly Circus. All perfect places to captivate your camera after dark. Whether you are an old hat to London, or just are fascinated with a different neighbourhood, this tour can be customised to suit your needs.

You'll begin each tour in a cafe (coffee provided) where you will explore your level of skill so the tour can be designed for your level of experience and your specific interests. Whether you are a well-worn shooter or this is your first camera, you'll learn tricks and techniques for taking envy-inducing images.

Every tour is privately booked so you won’t be sharing your time and attention with strangers, however, feel free to bring along friends and family. All our guides are experienced locals and have plenty of historical stories to tell to help keep the less photographically inclined entertained.

You're guaranteed to have an experience of London you will love, images that will wow your family and friends and skills that will last a lifetime.

This tour is an outstanding photography learning experience as you explore and photograph the cultural heart of London with a professional photographer. Working in a small group with places limited to 6 there is always time for one to one instruction from the tutor geared towards the camera you own.

Learn how to capture the vibrant and buzzing nature of London's South Bank. Capture street entertainers, musicians, market stalls, iconic architecture and outstanding river views during the South Bank Photography Tour. Photograph the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and St Paul's Cathedral from across the River Thames. Be amazed by the imposing structure of the London Eye, Palace of Westminster and Royal Festival Hall.

Marvel at historic architecture and buildings which form the city landscape of the South Bank, incorporating the beautiful colors of Westminster Bridge into your photographs. Working in a traffic free zone we take our time to learn how to get the best out of your camera. Your tutor will get you to the best viewpoints to take photographs to be proud of.

The tour takes place on either a Saturday or Sunday. Groups are small with places limited to 6 to ensure maximum 1 to 1 attention for all participants. We take a short working break for light refreshments and to review progress. Photographs are also reviewed regularly during the South Bank Photography Tour. Take home photographs and memories to cherish a lifetime. You can also use what you learned to help you get better photographs for the rest of your trip. Book today and learn photography with expert and friendly tuition.

The South Bank Photography Tour is suitable for all types of cameras from compact to DSLR. Suitable for all skill levels.

Learn How To:

• Compose a subject
• Use aperture value and depth of field
• Use shutter speed to create motion
• Use shutter speed to freeze action
• Use lenses for different shots
• Make use of available light and how it affects your photos
• Get the best from the camera you own

London is full of endless possibilities but with so much on offer, it can be intimidating to plan what to see in London and how to get around. Our personalized orientation experience, led by a Context docent, is the perfect introduction for newcomers to London, and is designed to answer practical questions about life in the UK's capital city.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walking tour begins at your hotel or apartment. Your confirmation email will have a 24 hour phone number for any last minute issues. The walk typically ends back at your hotel or in the neighborhood of your hotel.

Is this a highlights tour of the city?

This is more of a practical introduction to London, particularly the area you are staying in. If you want a broader introductory walking tour, we suggest

By the second half of the 18th century, London was the capital of a vast Empire, stretching from India to North America and trading in goods and commodities from every continent. This empire, fueled in part by mercantilism and in part by missionary zeal, created a solid economic base for the development of what became the largest formal empire that the world had ever known. However, a less talked about side of the Empire was its complicity in the slave trade; indeed, until the national abolition in 1833, London was a primary actor in the slave trade, financing, purchasing, and protecting shipping routes for slaves. On this London Slavery Tour, led by a local historian, we discover Britain's role in the slave travel, as well as the fight to end it.

• London Slavery Tour led by social historian
• Small groups—max 6 people
• Discover the lesser-known history of London's role in the slave trade

London Slavery Tour

During this 3-hour London Slavery Tour, we will look at how Britain's involvement in the slave trade, starting in the 1500s, remained for centuries the basis of the economic success of the empire. We'll learn how profits gained from human trafficking helped support the expansion of the British Empire as well as the Industrial Revolution. We'll also consider how a combination of economic interests, political changes, and humanitarian struggles changed the role of London from enforcer of the trade to beacon in the fight against the commerce of human beings. We'll analyze the importance of cases like the 1772 ruling that began the long road towards the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade.

On The Walk

Our walk begins at Guildhall, site of the trial for the Zong massacre, the first legal case in Britain involving a slave ship. From here we'll proceed to St. Mary Woolnoth where John Newton, who wrote the words to Amazing Grace and had been a slave ship captain, was rector. Continuing along the streets of the city we'll discuss the importance of the coffee houses as places where traders would conduct business, as well as religious halls where Abolitionist meetings were held.

Interested in learning more about London history? Try our Churchill War Rooms Tour or New York Times

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

Generally speaking, the walk begins near Guildhall. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24 hour phone number for any last minute issues. The walk typically ends at the Slavery and Sugar gallery of the Docklands museum.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

This walk covers about 1 mile overall. There are occasional opportunities to sit, use the bathroom, and get something to drink if needed.

Following a morning pickup at your centrally located London hotel at 08.00, hop aboard your private vehicle and take the 1.5-hour journey to Leeds Castle. Widely considered among England’s finest fortresses, Leeds Castle boasts a history dating back to the 12th century. 

Leeds Castle
A unique opportunity to have a private guided tour of Leeds Castle before it opens to the general public. On arrival, take a 1-hour tour of the castle (own expense) which we can arrange for you and gain insight into centuries of royal history. Learn of famous names who once called the residence home and admire the stunning architecture for which the castle is known. Leeds Castle has been a Norman stronghold, the private property of six of England’s medieval queens, a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon, a Jacobean country house, a Georgian mansion, an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous and in the 21st century, it has become one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Admission and tour cost: £18.25 per person + £50.00 guide fee payable on the day to Leeds castle.

Canterbury Cathedral 
After your visit to Leeds Castle you'll take a 45 minute drive to Canterbury where you'll have time to explore and have some lunch. Whilst small, Canterbury is truly a beautiful city and well worth a visit. Always busy and full of energy but with a village feel. Canterbury Cathedral is truly breathtaking with its medieval history dating back to 597AD. The Cathedral offers a private guided tour (own expense) which we can arrange for you. The Cathedral tour lasts about 90 minutes and costs £10.50 per person + £50 guide fee payable to Canterbury Cathedral on the day.

White Cliffs of Dover Tour
From Canterbury you head to Dover to start the tour on Dover's seafront looking up at the White Cliffs and Dover Castle. Driving around the castle to the South Foreland (the White Cliffs) where you can look down at the port and across to France. A short drive along the White Cliffs past the South Foreland Lighthouse and through the pretty village of St Margarets at Cliffe to its secret Bay. From here you will head for the beautiful village of Kingsdown and its beach where it's believed the Romans first invaded Britain more than 2000 years ago! Then onto the award winning seaside town of Deal via Walmer Castle the home of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Discover Deals history of Smuggling before visiting the Medieval town of Sandwich. As you are a private group the day can be flexible to meet your needs (no waiting for other people). Once you're ready to head to London sit back and your driver will take you to your hotel.

Treat your kids to a 4-hour adventure at KidZania, the real-life role play experience for kids aged 4-14, with this entrance ticket. Watch the excitement on their faces as they explore over 60 role-play adventures, from firefighter to surgeon to pilot or actor. There's a dedicated Early Years center for younger siblings, and a parents room with TV, computers, and sofas, for adults to take time out.

On arrival, you'll check in at the KidZania International Airport, where each member of your party will receive RFID security bracelets. These will ensure that your child remains safely within the city, and can only be checked out with you present. They will also record any allergies that your child may have.

Each child aged four and over will receive 50 'kidzos' (KidZania currency). Your child can either use these to pay for certain activities and products or save them and open up a bank account.

Take a stroll through the city, full of little people playing at big people's work, and get ready for your child to participate in their favorite activities. Children aged eight and over can enter the city unaccompanied, but children aged 0-7 need an adult with them at all times.

If you get hungry, no need to worry - there are plenty of dining and snack locations. Watch as your child settles into the city, and learns essential life skills from financial literacy to teamwork and independence by role-playing real life adult careers. Accompany younger siblings to the Early Years zone, with three main activities: Kindergarten, Science Lab, and a soft-play and storytelling area. Or, if your kids are old enough, enjoy a little 'me time' in the comfortable parents room, complete with TVs, computers, and comfy sofas.

Once your child's 4-hour play session is finished, you'll check out and make your own way home.

Please note: Children aged 0-7 (inclusive) must be accompanied by a full-paying adult (18+) at all times. Children 8 and over can enter the city unaccompanied, but an adult must be present for the admission for all children into KidZania London.

Begin your half day experience by exploring the cultures and civilizations through the monumental collection at the British Museum spanning 6000 years of human history. It features items from all over the world like Samurai armor and rare Assyrian lion hunt reliefs. Your guide will take a serious but enjoyable approach towards the museum’s galleries, discussing primitive tribes and fallen empires through a carefully chosen selection of items. You’ll learn about the Mummy of Katebet, the Lewis Chessmen, and the Rosetta Stone – the actual rock, not the language learning program. Walk away with an understanding of what we humans have achieved during our short history and hopefully you’ll be proud to call yourself a part of this incredible species.

After a break for lunch, learn about the master painters whose names fill the halls of the National Gallery. You’ve heard of Seurat and da Vinci, but what do you really know about them? Learn about the painters behind the paintings as we browse our favorite works by other masters like Botticelli, Monet, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. If none of those names mean anything to you, your guide will make sure that changes by the end of the tour. The National Gallery houses paintings dating back to the 1300s all the way up through the 1900s, so there is no shortage of choice. Visit Jan van Eyck’s “The Arnolfini Portrait” or something more familiar like Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” to understand the full scope of work on display. During your tour, you'll be arm with the essential information and history needed to appreciate the more than 2300 paintings on display at one of the world’s most visited museums.

The super-powered Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIB's) are specially designed to operate on the River Thames. One minute you're cruising gently under Tower Bridge, the next you are racing out towards the Thames Barrier at a rate of 50 knots on a speed boat.

This fantastic interactive guided tour takes in London's top sights and gives fascinating insight into their history. With a modern sound system on board you'll be sure to hear your guide's entertaining and informative commentary even at high speed.

Choose between the 50-minute Canary Wharf Experience and the 80-minute Thames Barrier Experience. Take the Canary Wharf Experience to see the famous sights of the Houses of Parliament, HMS Belfast, Tower of London and Execution Dock.

Or opt for the Thames Barrier Experience and in addition enjoy beautiful views of Greenwich and the incredible Thames Barrier, the world's second largest movable flood barrier. You will also be sped around the O2 Arena, filming location of the James Bond movie The World is Not Enough whilst listening to the movie soundtrack.

Group sizes are restricted to 12 passengers on both tours, ensuring a personal and fun experience. London's number one action activity is not to be missed!

Meet your host in central London and make your way to Buckingham Palace, which has served as the official London residence of the British Royal Family since the 19th century. Receive your prebooked ticket from your host, and then head inside independently to explore the home of Queen Elizabeth II, a rare opportunity only available to the public for approx. eight weeks of the year.

Plug in your audio guide and marvel at the grand chandeliers, extravagant furnishings and treasures from the Royal Collection as you stroll through the State Rooms. You’ll also see the stunning Throne Room, where formal royal wedding photographs are traditionally taken. As you wander, listen to the audio commentary for more insightful information about the palace’s royal residents, history and traditions.

After your audio tour, leave the palace and join back up with your host. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful St James’s Park to a nearby hotel, where you’ll enjoy afternoon tea. As you walk, learn how the quaint tradition is thought to have been started by one of Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting.

On arrival, make for the hotel’s ornate dining room. Recline in one of the plush armchairs and be delighted as the waiting staff present you with a delectable spread of dainty finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and homemade preserves, freshly made cakes and pastries, and a selection of tea.

Your tour ends inside the hotel. With your sweet tooth soothed, bid your host a fond farewell before making your own way back to your hotel or next destination.

Start the day at your hotel in London or at a convenient meeting point, and enjoy a scenic ride out of the city and through the beautiful English countryside.

Once in St. Albans, embark on your guided tour through the city, visiting its ancient Roman ruins left over from the old city walls, and walk up the city's hill to the magnificent St. Albans Abbey, the ancient cathedral of the city and resting place of an early Christian martyr. Stop along the way for some refreshments, and reward yourself with a beer at one of the England's oldest pubs.

Before heading back to London, pay a visit the bustling English market of St. Albans, and visit the ancient church said to be the final resting place of Sir Francis Bacon.

Your service can start at your selected time from any central London hotel or any of the major airport hotels. Maximum disposal time is 8 hours per day.

You can personalize your entire day with the assistance of our knowledgeable chauffeur whether its for a business trip to London, meetings, sightseeing or even a shopping day out. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, you can choose what you visit. See famous Big Ben, St Paul Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace. Go shopping in a Rolls Royce with your personal chauffeur to help carry the bags from that special little boutique or big Regent Street stores like Harrods or Selfridges. You won’t have to struggle with heavy shopping bags. Let your chauffeur deliver you to the door of your favorite London store and pick you back up again.

Cambridge. The name evokes unforgettable images of a prestigious university, the grand architecture of British colleges, a storied conflict with Oxford, the beauty and the calm of the tree-lined Backs and the River Cam, the bustle of bicycling students on King's Parade, and the extraordinary vivacity of its research and literature. In this Cambridge Tour, a four-hour day trip from London, we'll explore Cambridge's history, architecture, landscape and world-class art in the company of a historian, putting the university into the context of the intellectual history that is has so fundamentally shaped.

• Cambridge tour led by local expert
• Explore the hallowed grounds of one of the world's most famous universities
• A day trip from London

Day Trip from London

We'll begin your adventure in London with round-trip tickets to Cambridge and detailed instructions provided by Context. (Private tour goers have the option of booking a car.) The train ride is a quick hour, after which our docent will meet us on the platform to begin our tour.

Our walk starts from the Fitzwilliam Museum, a magnificent building dating from the mid-nineteenth century that houses an internationally-renowned collection of European paintings including works by Titian, Tintoretto, Vermeer, and Reynolds. The collection boasts drawings and prints, as well as fine furniture and sculpture, antiquities, coins, medals, manuscripts, and printed books. Fantastic in its own right, we'll use this as a backdrop to discuss the founding of Cambridge and its medieval origins before diving into the campus.

Cambridge Tour

As we perambulate along Trumpington Street, our exploration may take us in myriad directions depending on the interests of the group and the proclivities of our guide. Typical routes include a visit to Peterhouse College, which was founded in 1284, its original hall and the windows by William Morris, Edward Burne-Jones, and Ford Madox Brown. We will probably also visit Pembroke College, with its chapel—the first work of architect Christopher Wren and a fantastic bookend to our popular St. Paul's Cathedral Tour.

On Campus

Because our focus will bridge history and aesthetics, we often include Queens' College, with its absolutely beautiful medieval Old Court, home to the chapel, library, and dining hall, along with the eighteenth-century sun and moon dial (one of few in the world) and the “Mathematical Bridge," an 18th century engineering marvel. Finally we may stop by King College, founded in 1441, and its chapel, the icon of the city of Cambridge and a real masterpiece of English architecture, with its fan-vaulted ceiling and Rubens' famous altarpiece, "The Adoration of the Magi."

Scholars and Traders

When the first scholars arrived in 1209, Cambridge was already a flourishing market community that had grown from a Roman fort in the first century BC to a Saxon settlement during the Middle Ages and finally to a Norman stronghold. We'll gain a better appreciation of this visiting the little Anglo-Saxon St. Bene't's Church, which contains the oldest tower in the county.

Want to pick a side? Take our Oxford Tour and decide for yourself which is better.

Two Schools

Walking onto Trinity Street we will enter Trinity College, which was founded by Henry VIII in 1546, and St. John's College, with its School of Pythagoras and its neo-Gothic Bridge of Sighs—two iconic emblems of Cambridge. And, too, one absolutely cannot miss the chance to get into the Round Church, which was built in 1130 and remains the oldest Norman building in the country.

An Open End

To finish, we will visit a truly special place full of charm, The Kettle Yard. It was once the home of the late Helen and Jim Ede, who was a curator of the Tate Gallery. Here, nothing is labelled, and you are free to wander into the rooms, sit down, and read one of Ede's books or to stop and look at one of the Constantin Brancusi, Barbara Hepworth, or Ben Nicholson works housed here. We'll leave with a better understanding of Cambridge, its history and traditions, and the desire to explore more.

FAQ

Where are we meeting our guide?

You will meet your guide in Cambridge, at the train station, however, if you are booking a private tour, we can arrange for a different meeting point. Trains leave from both London Liverpool Street Station and Kings Cross Station and run pretty frequently. The journey ranges between 1 hour to 1.5 hours depending on the train. Tickets can be bought online ahead of time or at the station. Online tickets and schedules are available at: http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

You will go inside colleges and other sites. We will purchase tickets at the time of the visit.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

We cover about 2.5 miles during the walk. There are plenty of opportunities to sit down and rest, but please let us know if you have any concerns.

Embark on this 90-minute private walking tour that covers the major London landmarks as discover the world of Harry Potter. Discover the secrets of Westminster Bridge, which members of the Order of the Pheonix flew under,  and take in the stunning views of the Houses of Parliament. See Lambeth Bridge, the site of the eventful Knightbus scene and the aged Ernest Prang's sporadic driving. How do you shrink a human head?

Westminster Station was used by Harry Potter and Mr Weasley in The Order of the Phoenix. Find out how much it costs to film on location. Have your  Ministry of Magic visitor pass at the ready we visit both the staff and public entrances to the Ministry of Magic in Whitehall. 

Pass the possible inspiration for Gringotts Bank before venturing through the atmospheric thoroughfares of Diagon Alley, the Leaky Cauldron and Knockturn Alley. Will you recognise the entrance to Diagon Alley just off Charing Cross Road? Venture up to Shaftesbury Avenue where Hermione apparated herself, Ron and Harry. We end at the Palace Theatre, hosting the play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts One and Two where you bid farewell to your guide.

The Coca-Cola London Eye soars 443 feet (135 meters) into the sky and views stretching 25 miles (40 kilometers) in every direction. Since opening at the turn of the century, it has been used as a backdrop in countless films and is loved by Britons and visitors alike. More than 3.5 million people a year have ridden the London Eye (an average of 10,000 a day).

Skip the Line: London Eye Tickets are the fastest way to the sky! Check in just 15 minutes before your flight and avoiding the majority of the queue with fast track priority access. The tickets are pre-paid, for fast, hassle-free entry and you can board any flight on your chosen day. Price includes standard ticket price plus fast-track fee.

Pay a little more and you could save a lot of time! At weekends, during Bank Holidays and during school holidays the London Eye is at its most popular. London Eye: Skip the Line Tickets allow priority boarding and include a complimentary mini-guide for adults and an in-flight kids' pack for children.

Each London Eye capsule holds up to 25 passengers comfortably. All capsules are fully air-conditioned and rotate on a special device designed to keep everyone upright as the wheel makes a slow but progressive revolution.

If you wish to see the 4D Experience beforehand, we recommend you arrive 30-40 minutes before your visit time. Alternately visit at your leisure afterwards.

This English-language tour is intended for skeptical non-believers, or people of any or no religion. Wheelchairs and portable canvas stools are freely available if needed. The content is mostly in the Assyrian, Egyptian and Mesopotamia rooms of the British Museum, including an analysis of the Amarna Letters, Amenhotep III and Akhenaten, the origin of writing and the alphabet, the link between the Chinese language and Genesis, seeing God's actual name in the Lachish Letters, evidence for some events recorded in Genesis including the global Flood and the saving of Jerusalem, and the amazing significance of the (Persian) Cyrus Cylinder.

Meet your local tour guide at the 'boy on horse' statue (next to the Information Desk) at an agreed time. No meals or drinks are included, but are available easily within the museum and in nearby cafes. You need to arrive at the front entrance of the British Museum and allow time to get through the security procedure where bags and bulges are searched. You may bring a notepad, pen and a bible if you wish. No recording of the tour is allowed to be published in any format for others to see or hear.

A team of professional photographers will plan your Tower Bridge session with you. You'll get an insider perspective on the location and amazing photos of you as we explore and enjoy the highlights around Tower Bridge. Teams of 1 or 2 photographers will guide you through the city and use the subway and walking where appropriate. 

Visit many iconic landmarks around the bridge and take in the sights of the city as you are guided around and have fun getting gorgeous photographs of you and your loved ones. This customizable experience is perfect for couples, groups, friends, singles and families looking for professional styled photos in London.

Photograph British heritage and tradition in Trafalgar Square- home of the world famous Landseer Lions, National Gallery, mermaid sculptures, elegant fountains and many fine statues and monuments. Capture street entertainers and pavement artists who create colorful chalk drawings for you to photograph and admire.

Walking at a leisurely pace you make your way to Leicester Square and photograph the gardens, the fountains and a great statue of William Shakespeare whose presence dominates the gardens. You take a short working break for refreshments (own expense) and to review progress. Then make your way to Chinatown, your expert photographer guides you to the best view points to photograph the colourful landscape of Chinatown. Marvel at colorful shop fronts full of exotic foods and delicacies. Be amazed by stalls crammed with colorful novelties and lanterns. You take your time to photograph the rich and authentic colors of Chinatown before making your way to Covent Garden. Explore the architecture of the Royal Opera House, quirky side streets and street entertainers before making your way to the extraordinary and colorful Neal’s Yard. At all times your personal photographer is there to guide and help you take outstanding photographs.

During the Private London Photography Tour learn how to:

• improve composition

• use light to its best advantage

• use depth of field

• create blurred backgrounds

• use shutter speed to create movement

• use shutter speed to freeze action

Uncover London's 2,000-year history in the company of an local historian on this London City Tour, broadly covering the history of England's capital. Providing an overview of London from Roman outpost to cutting-edge world capital, this walk is history-focused, tracing the city's long, turbulent history and rise to prominence while visiting quintessential landmarks like the Tower of London, All Hallows-by-the-Tower, and the Monument, which marks the spot at which the Great Fire, which nearly consumed the city, is believed to have originated.

• London City Tour led by a historian
• Provides a broad overview of the city of London, from Roman outpost to world capital
• Small group London walks—6 people max

London City Tour

We will begin at the Tower of London, one of the primary symbols of London (and where we run a focused Tower of London Tour), which was built in 1078 to protect the city from invaders. Here we will discuss the Norman invasion and separation of City of London from the monarchy, delving into one of the most interesting periods of British history. We will continue the walk with a visit to one of the few sites that escaped the fire (though not the Blitz), All Hallows-by-the-Tower. The church is the oldest known in the City of London area and contains remnants of the Roman, Saxon, medieval, and modern periods. It was also the place where Samuel Pepys watched the Great Fire spread across the capital, where William Penn was christened, and where John Quincy Adams was married.

Architecture Through the Ages

As we leave the church, we will pass some of the remainders of the Roman and medieval wall and fort that was situated in this area. While making our way in the medieval streets of the city, we will discuss the architectural development of the square mile, from St. Andrew Undershaft which survived the fire, the Blitz (the focus of ourLondon WWII Tour and a Victorian refurbishment, to the Lloyd's Building and the controversial Gerkin. We will continue our walk with a visit to the fourteenth-century Leadenhall Market, where we will discuss the importance of trade to the history of the city and to the flourishing coffeehouses in this part of London. If time allows, we will veer off to Guildhall, the medieval town hall and the only pre-1666 secular building that survived the fire and the 1940-41 Blitz. This site is also home to a Roman amphitheater situated in the ground level of the structure, whose remains we may examine.

Take Aways

Depending on the day and your interest, we may take a short walk to the third century AD Roman Mithraeum, or we could proceed to walk through Eastcheap, in the heart of the City. From here, we will walk to the Monument, a large monolith, which commemorates the believed starting-point of the Great Fire of London in 1666. The fire consumed many of the ninety-six churches that existed in this part of London, and the job of their restoration was given to Sir Christopher Wren (on whom we also run a Christopher Wren Churches Tour), whose masterpieces are still a feature of London today.

FAQS

Will we see the Tower of London on this tour?

While the Tower is not included in the tour, we start the walk very near it, and we briefly discuss its role in the creation of the City. If you are interested in visiting the Tower, please see our Tower of London tour.

Is this walk accessible to wheelchairs?

Yes, the City is fully accessible, so wheelchairs are not a problem.

Do we need to bring cash for entrance to sites?

Most sites we visit are free, however, they welcome donations. For this reason we recommend carrying some cash.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The tour covers about 2 miles. All of this is on even ground.

Our in-depth walking tours are designed to paint an inspiring picture of the city, creating memorable experiences of learning and discovery along the way. Concentrating on the wealth of knowledge our London city guide has to offer, it can be tough to remember to capture these travel memories. We’ve teamed up with Flytographer to offer a special package: those booking private walks with us in London have the opportunity to be joined by professional local photographer for part of their walk.

• Memorable moments captured.
• Custom London Walking Tour with photo shoot
• Professional photos.

Custom London Walking Tour with Photo Shoot

Flytographer helps travelers capture stunning vacation photos of everyone together, in amazing places. They have local, carefully vetted, photographers available in over 160 destinations, who will meet you for a fun, candid photoshoot. The result? Wall­-worthy vacation photos with everyone together. Gorgeous photos you can't capture alone. A charming local photographer. A priceless souvenir of your trip.

Combine a Flytographer photo shoot with your choice of Context walk in London with our special package. Just write which of our London walks you’d like to combine with your Flytographer shoot in the Trip Notes section when placing an order.

Within 5 business days of the walk, digital photos will be emailed to the you via an online gallery, along with a link to download all the high resolution photos.

The default price for this package is £650, which is based on a 3-hour walk and 1.5 hours with the Flytographer (usually the first 30 minutes are spent with the photographer alone, before the walk starts), followed by 45 photographs. Please also note that certain tours cannot run every day of the week. We will work with you to adjust scheduling and pricing (should the tour you request be a non-standard price) before charging..

FAQ

How will I know which walks work best for a photoshoot? We find that natural light is best, and encourage walks with interesting or iconic backdrops that showcase a sense of "place." If you have a question about choosing a walk, don't hesitate to ask us.

How long will it take for my photos to be processed? How will they be delivered? Within 5 business days of the tour, digital photos will be emailed to you via an online gallery, along with a link to download high resolution photos. Do contact us at info@contexttravel.com should you have additional questions about this service.

I use a wheelchair, can I book this tour? Absolutely. Please contact us to discuss which of our tours will work best for your mobility needs.

Will I know in advance who my photographer will be?Flytographer works with a number of photographers in each city and the photographer assigned to you will depend on availability for your tour date. Feel free to browse Flytographers at the above link and let us know if you have a particular preference - we'll do our best to match you with your choice, although please be aware that we cannot guarantee which photographer you will be paired with until we check availability.

What qualifications will my photographer have? All Flytographers have a minimum of 2 years' professional experience, but many are very much more experienced. They all have a modern, fresh style using lots of natural light. They are also warm, open minded personalities who have experience working with customers.

When is the best time of day to schedule a walk? Morning, before 11 am, or after 2 pm--but remember that in winter this means the walk might finish after dark.

Are there any times of day that will definitely not work? Yes, midday to 2 pm, and anytime after twilight.

Can we book a Flytographer for a walk that takes place indoors? No. To ensure we get fresh, bright, beautiful shots, we’ll need lots of natural light.

Will I meet the photographer before the docent? Yes. We’ve found that it’s best you to connect with your Flytographer around 30 minutes before the walk is due to start, to get to know each other and start capturing some candid shots.

How long will the Flytographer be with my group? The standard photoshoot duration is 1.5 hours, so this usually means an hour on the walk. Then you’ll continue the walk as usual with your docent.

What are Flytographer’s Terms of Service? Context Travel and all end users of Photography Services are subject to the Terms of Service furnished by Flytographer Enterprises Ltd. at the above link and here. Flytographer Enterprises Ltd. reserves the right to update or amend such terms of service at any time, for any reason. Context Travel agrees and accepts, and will make available to each end user and ensure that each end user accepts and agrees to comply with, such terms of service.

You can find Flytographer’s full FAQ here.

As you walk the very route the ripper would have taken, 'Ripper- Vision' will practically bring you back to a time of gaslight and fog, a time of poverty, disease and silent footsteps in the shadows as the ripper hunted his victims.

The gruesome tale of Jack the ripper remains the greatest mystery in the history of crime. Your guide is a dedicated "Ripperologist" and enthusiast. This is the most up to date Jack the Ripper tour anywhere in London, the most exciting, the most shocking and a must for anyone who loves a good gruesome mystery. So join in and track down the most elusive criminal in history.

Christopher Wren built 53 churches following the fire of London in 1666 and 23 remain. Among these we will visit St. Stephen Walbrook and St. Mary Abchurch. The former has a beautifully designed dome which undoubtedly served as a model for St. Paul's. St. Mary Abchurch contains a wealth of objects including a massive reredos by Grinling Gibbons.

This in-depth private tour is hosted by a professional guide specializing in art history. Please list any special interests you have (art, architecture, history, culture) at time of booking to alert our guide, so that he or she can better prepare for your private tour.

Make your way to KidZania, located in central London. Exchange your pre-purchased voucher for an admission ticket that gives you and your children access.  When you check-in at the KidZania International Airport RFID security bracelets will be given to each member of your party. These will ensure that your child remains safely within the city, and can only be checked out with you present. They will also record any allergies that your child may have. 

This blend of learning with entertainment is suitable for children ages 4 through 14 years; there is a dedicated area for younger siblings that includes activities such as the Kindergarten, RightZKeepers Residence and a Science Lab. Explore the ins and outs of more than sixty professions through real-life role-play in a meticulously constructed play city. Children can learn independence, team work, financial literacy and other life skills through their role-play experiences.

Role play opportunities include settings such as the hospital, police department, radio station and the aviation academy, among others. Each young guest will be given 50 'kidzos' (KidZania currency). Your child will use these to either pay for certain activities and products or they can save them and open up a bank account. If your child feels comfortable exploring the city on their own, retire to the parents' room, outfitted with sofas, televisions and computers. There are also a variety of dining and snack options.

To understand London, you first need to understand its long, complex history. Our expert guides will peel back the layers as you walk past some of the most iconic places in central London like Trafalgar Square and the House of Parliament. Learn about Chaucer at Westminster Abbey or maybe bump into the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street.

The tour will pass through the sweeping green parks, bustling crowds, and quaint squares that make up this fascinating urban landscape. Learn about the monarchs and leaders, like Queen Elizabeth II and Winston Churchill, while also taking advantage of your local guide, who will be more than willing to share a few of the city’s best kept secrets as you explore together.

Start your private tour with a pickup at your centrally located London hotel between 9am and 9pm. Alternatively, simply meet your private guide in the center of the city London. Then, hop into your restored Mini Cooper and set off through the streets.

Zoom along London’s famous thoroughfares in your classic Mini Cooper and take in top sites of interest such as the Houses of Parliament, The Shard, or St. Paul's Cathedral. Along the way, find out what really makes London swing!

With your private guide at the wheel, spin off the tourist route to corners of the capital only the locals know. Perhaps explore London’s street art scene in Leake Street, wind around the historic backstreets of Covent Garden, or soak up the atmosphere in local markets like the Borough Farmers’ Market.

After two hours exploring the streets and sites of London, conclude your tour back in the city center or at your hotel.

Meet your local guide not far from the Palace, who will welcome you and take you on a walking tour of this most royal part of London. They will provide fascinating background information about the palace and the royal family, as well as the magnificent St James's Palace, built by Henry VIII and the official residence of the Queen - send her a letter and it will arrive here! You'll also visit the beautiful St James's Park, once home to the royal zoo, the Mall, built to resemble a giant red carpet leading up to the Palace, and pass by Clarence House, also a Royal palace and home to Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.  After your relaxing walking tour you’ll have the rare chance to visit the inside of the royal residence: Buckingham Palace.  The palace opens its doors to visitors for a limited time each year and it seems that just about everyone would like to get inside.

The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh open the doors of Buckingham Palace to visitors just once a year for two months. This is a unique opportunity to catch a rare glimpse into the London residence of the Royals. Tickets are hard to come by but your entrance is pre-booked, which means access is guaranteed and there will be no lines to wait in. This is where Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II extends a royal welcome to visitors, boasting lavish apartments, sparkling chandeliers, and sumptuous furnishings.  These rooms house some of the greatest treasures of the Royal Collection, such as exquisite pieces of Sèvres porcelain and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world.  With the official Palace audio guide you’ll learn all about the palace residents, history, and traditions as well as the stories of the furnishings and ornaments.  Many of these items were gifts from Heads of State spanning both the centuries and the globe.

You’ll be met by your guide at the agreed location and begin the drive by private car to Waddesdon Manor on this 6-hour tour.

Now open to the public and set amid stunning hilltop gardens, the unique French style chateau was the one-time home of the wealthy Rothschild family. This is very much a trip for those wanting to experience an authentic day out in the English countryside.

Waddesdon is one of the most visited estates in the country and once there, you'll understand why. Marvel at the interior of the house and its lavishly decorated rooms filled with fine furnishings and works of art.

The gardens are also a sight to behold, and the views from the gardens stretch for miles over the plains. See the outdoor aviary with birds from around the world, rose gardens, formal gardens with fountains, and caves, and take the land-train down the hill to the stable block and café.

Start with a pickup from any London Heathrow Terminal, and relax in the comfort of your private vehicle as your private chauffeur takes care of the route and driving. The itinerary is completely flexible and can be tailored to your interests, but all tours will include plenty of photo stops.

Explore the streets around Westminster, with its collection of historical and political monuments. Parliament Square is home to Westminster Abbey — setting of the 2011 royal wedding of Kate Middleton to Prince William — as well as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Whitewall and Trafalgar Square.

Want to factor in some activities alongside sightseeing and attraction visits? Then speak to your chauffeur about a Thames River sightseeing cruise , a ride on the London Eye or a trip up a high-speed elevator to the View from the Shard. Or, perhaps watch the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, the London residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

Please note: some of these attractions may have entrance fees, which will not be covered by initial purchase. Your chauffeur will let you know how much these could be when you're working out the itinerary for this tour.

At the end of your day of sightseeing and fun in London, you'll finish with a drop-off to your hotel or back to the airport.

Just a few paces from the bustle of the Strand lays one of London’s best-kept secrets: a patchwork of secluded squares, alleyways and courtyards that has been home to the legal profession since the Middle Ages, when students first came to study and live at the ancient Inns of Court. Today the four great Inns—Middle Temple, Inner Temple, Lincoln’s Inn, and Gray’s Inn—still form thriving communities providing a base for most of the country’s barristers within easy walking distance of the nation’s principal courts. This Inns of Court Tour, led by a barrister or law expert, explores the history of the law profession in Britain, as well as the development of the Inns.

• Inns of Court Tour led by a barrister or law expert
• Small groups—max 6 people
• Visits Inns and other sites important to the development of British law

Inns of Court Tour

This 3-hour Inns of Court Tour traces the development of the English legal system, explaining and illustrating its many quirks, from the history of the barristers’ horsehair wigs—still worn for most trials—to the role of Queen’s Counsel or the Lord Chancellor.

Visiting the Inns

Each of the Inns, laid out on much the same pattern as an Oxford college, boasts its own dining hall, chapel, and gardens, together preserving much of the spirit of a bygone London. Architectural treasures range from the 12th century Temple Church and the Tudor gateway at Lincoln’s Inn to the Georgian splendors of New Square and the Victorian grandeur of the Royal Courts of Justice.

The Inns Through History

This area is steeped in cultural and political history: the first performance of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night was staged in the Middle Temple (for those interested, we also offer a London Theater Tour), and the young Charles Dickens worked unhappily here as a young clerk—in fact, the opening passage of Bleak House is set in Lincoln’s Inn Hall. No fewer than 15 Prime Ministers have been members of Lincoln’s Inn; both Tony Blair and Margaret Thatcher once practiced as barristers.

On The Walk

We'll begin our walk at the foot of the Middle Temple Lane beside the Thames and pass through the center of the Inn, taking in the Temple Church—once the headquarters of the medieval Knights Templar and later remodeled by Sir Christopher Wren—as well as the 16th century Middle Temple Hall.

Those interested in Wren may also enjoy our Christopher Wren Churches Tour.

Royal Courts of Justice and Lincoln's Inn

Continuing north, we'll enter the imposing hall of the Royal Courts of Justice, which houses both High Court and the Court of Appeals of England and Wales. Here, we'll visit one of the courts, discussing both the building's historical importance and day-to-day operations. Moving on, we'll have the opportunity to visit Lincoln’s Inn—itself home to a wide array of architectural styles due to continual additions throughout the centuries—to admire the hall and chapel.

Finally, we'll move to West End's Holborn district, where we will visit the Staple Inn, which boasts the only timber-framed façade to survive the Great Fire of London in 1666, as well as Gray’s Inn, famous for its "Walks" or gardens.

Take Aways

In the company of our docent, we will learn about century-old traditions and rules that have defined the distinct character of the legal profession in Great Britain. At the end of our walk, we will have gained a deeper understanding for the role of the Inns and the past and present of barristers in London.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins in the area near Temple tube stop and ends at Gray’s Inn. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

This walk covers about 1 mile overall. There are occasional opportunities to sit if needed.

Meet your guide at a central location to start your day. Victorian London is often described as a labyrinth or a maze; once you enter it’s hard to get out. Your professional tour guide will help you master the back alleys, away from the wide shopping street you can easily imagine the characters who lived and worked in the area. 

You will explore some of the beautifully maintained Victorian gardens, discover their hidden secrets before venturing through some residential streets, once the homes for artists Samuel Clarkson and William Etty and workplaces for literature giants Rudyard Kipling and Charles Dickens.  You will stand where the Thames used to dominate, take in the messy madness of one of the most famous London markets and count the fair maidens on the way.

The virtual maps and on-board commentary point out some of the well known London attractions that you'll see. The cruise is suitable in all weather as the boat has both covered and sun deck seating. Both decks are accessible for wheelchair users and toilets are available on board.

See London from a different perspective and enjoy a unique 40 minute circular sightseeing cruise on the river Thames with fascinating live commentary.
There are two options to choose from:

• Cruise Only
• Cruise & Standard London Eye Ticket

Uncover the man behind the image at the Churchill Museum, the only major museum in the world dedicated to the life and legacy of Sir Winston Churchill. Using cutting edge technology and a mixture of media displays, the undeniably exciting story of this historical figure is brought to life. Visitors can explore the complex nature of his life, long political career and also investigate the private man, his successes and failures.

The Cabinet War Rooms: Churchill’s wartime bunker is a fascinating piece of living history; an underground maze of rooms that once buzzed with round-the-clock planning and plotting, strategies and secrets. As you explore the historic rooms for yourself, you can imagine what life would have been like during the tense days and nights of the Second World War.

The Churchill Museum: Uncover the man behind the image at the Churchill Museum, the only major museum in the world dedicated to the life and legacy of Sir Winston Churchill. Using cutting-edge technology and multimedia displays, Churchill’s story is brought to life, starting at the high point of his career – his appointment as Prime Minister on 10 May 1940.

Hear extracts from Churchill’s rousing wartime speeches as you stand on the squares to activate Churchill’s voice delivering now-familiar phrases such as ‘Blood, toil, tears and sweat’ and ‘We shall fight them on the beaches’. Nearby stands the original No. 10 door that Churchill walked through after becoming Prime Minister.

Enjoy a 3-hour mini coach tour of Beatles locations in central London including Abbey Road and Trident Studios. This guided, small-group tour (of no more than 15) will show you their hangouts, gig locations and much more. In total, you will see over 30 Beatles related sites on this magical mystery tour around London.

Meet your guide at Sloane Square Tube Station at 2pm and start your journey into the Beatles world. You will experience the most comprehensive tour of Beatles sites in London on this bus adventure into the world of John, Paul, George and Ringo.

Trace the rise of the world’s first supergroup and learn all about Beatles history. You’ll have the chance to get off the bus on several occasions, take pictures and see the sites up close.

See over 30 Beatles related sites including the home of John, Paul and Ringo, the studios where they recorded many of their famous tracks, some of the famous locations where they played live gigs including the famous rooftop concert. You will also visit sites featured in album covers, photo-shoots, and even film locations from Help! and A Hard Days Night.

During the tour you will hear Beatles tracks as you travel through the London of the Fab Four and to a time when the boys from Liverpool ruled the world of music. Your Beatles tour ends at 5pm back at Sloane Square Tube Station.

Discover London at your leisure with a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket that includes a 20-minute Thames riverboat ride and 2-hour walking tour. Enjoy included Wi-Fi and audio commentary in your choice of eight languages as you see sights from St. Paul's Cathedral and Big Ben to the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace, taking the time to explore whatever interests you.

Stop at one of your local operator's central locations, which include Victoria, King's Cross, Leicester Square, and Paddington, to convert your voucher into a ticket. That's good for 24 consecutive hours of hop-on, hop-off bus travel, covering over 60 stops on three routes, as well as a walking tour and Thames boat ride.

Take your time to explore London at your leisure, seeing the sights you want and traveling with ease between the main tourist areas. The buses visit all the classic London attractions, from Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park, to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, Big Ben, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and much, much more (see itinerary for route details).

Multilingual audio guides are available on all routes in English, Brazilian Portuguese, Mandarin, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Spanish. The classic Blue Route, covering London's highlights, features a live, English-speaking guide. Open-top buses also offer free Wi-Fi.

Your ticket includes your choice of two 2-hour walking tours: the Royal Walking Tour, covering the royal family's favorite places to escape within the capital, and the Beatles London Walking Tour, exploring places where the iconic British band worked and played. The Royal Walking Tour starts from Leicester Square at 10am daily and finishes in Westminster at 12pm; the Beatles London Walking Tour starts from Leicester Square at 1pm daily and finishes there at 3pm.

Also on the menu is a 20-minute riverboat ride, giving an alternative perspective on some of the London sights you've seen from the bus. You can ride from Embankment or London Eye to Tower Pier (home of Tower Bridge), or from Tower Pier to London Eye or Embankment: boats start before 7am and run until after 9pm on weekdays, starting soon after 9am on weekends. Timetables, route maps, and further information will be available when you collect your ticket.

A team of professional photographers will plan your Buckingham Palace session with you. You'll get an insider perspective on the location and amazing photos of you as we explore and enjoy the highlights around Buckingham Palace.

Teams of 1 or 2 photographers will guide you through the city and use the subway and walking where appropriate.  Visit many iconic landmarks around the palace and take in the sights of the city as you are guided around and have fun getting gorgeous photographs of you and your loved ones. This customizable experience is perfect for couples, groups, friends, singles and families looking for professional styled photos in London.

Learn how to use your digital camera effectively and be in control of its main functions and settings. This is a short, assignment based photography course.  Learn how to change the way your photos look by learning practically on location.

The Beginners Photography Course takes place outdoors in stunning Central London locations with great views of Tower Bridge and City Hall.

During the course you learn about;

• camera over view; buttons, dials and menus
• white balance settings
• understanding how to achieve correct exposures
• freezing action
• creating motion
• depth of field
• creating blurry backgrounds
• aperture settings
• shutter speed
• colour attributes
• and much more...

Greenwich, just a short trip down the Thames from London, was an important port and center of naval activity for the British over several centuries, famous—of course—for the Greenwich Meridian, against which all longitude is measured. On this Greenwich Tour we'll take a Thames River cruise with a historian, and then spend several hours visiting some key sites in Greenwich, including the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark.

• Greenwich Tour includes a Thames River cruise
• Visits the Royal Observatory
• Led by a historian

Thames River Cruise

We begin at Embankment in central London where we'll board the Clipper Thames, one of London's riverboats, with our historian docent, heading east. Our journey will take us through the heart of London, and from our vantage point royal palaces and modern government buildings will illuminate the River's role as a power base, while old warehouses and wharfs will illustrate the working river, and bridges will tell the story of the areas previously divided by the River. Along the way our docent will talk about the role of the river, especially as it pertains to Britain's relationship with the sea. Finally, we'll arrive in Greenwich, house of the Royal Observatory, the Queen's House, the newly restored Cutty Sark, and many more important sites.

Greenwich Tour

In Greenwich, we will begin our walk by discussing the world famous ship and last surviving tea clipper, the Cutty Sark, which will function as a frame of reference during our tour. From here, we will move on to other relevant sites including the Old Royal Naval Academy, where we will discuss the history of the site, from its origins as a royal palace favored by the Tudors and birthplace of Henry VIII, Mary I, and Elizabeth I, through its complete Baroque rebuilding during the Restoration, to its transformation into the Royal Naval Hospital, and, finally, into a college under the supervision of Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor. (For those interested, we also run a Christopher Wren Churches Tour.

A Lesser known London

If time allows, our docent will lead us to lesser-known, yet equally intriguing, parts of Greenwich, including Trinity Hospital and Trafalgar Tavern. Then, we will emerge out into Greenwich Park, with scenic views of the first Palladian House in Britain, the Queen’s House, and the National Maritime Museum. Beyond the perfectly manicured lawns of the Park, a path through the trees leads us to a small hill on which the Royal Observatory and Flamsteed House are built. Once we reach the top the hill, we are presented with a wonderful view of London, both old and new, spread out before us with the River Thames cutting a silver ribbon through the city, separating the historic site of Greenwich from the modern buildings of Olympic Park.

Those who wish to learn a bit more about the view may be interested in our London Architecture Tour.

Take Aways

By the end of the walk we will have a deeper understanding of the important role that the River Thames has played in British naval and mercantile history. We will also come away with an appreciation of London as a city that constantly changes, but that also prioritizes the preservation of its history—something we will see first-hand in Greenwich, a microcosm of the unique dualities that exist in London.

Learn what we love about visiting: Five Reasons to Visit Greenwich (and Maybe Skip the London Eye).

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

We meet in central London, at Embankment Pier. The tour ends in Greenwich, where you are free to explore on your own or get lunch. It's very easy to get back to central London on your own via the Clipper Thames. Ferries are frequent throughout the day.

Does this tour include the Royal Observatory Greenwich (home of the historic Prime Meridian)?

Depending on the interest of the group, we may or not include the Royal Observatory in the tour. The observatory is on the top of the hill that overlooks Greenwich, so its a bit of a climb. If you are booking a private tour and are interested, we can definitely include it. Tickets are £ 9.50 and can be purchased at the site.

Is this tour accessible?

Yes, the Clipper Thames are fully accessible just like the sites in Greenwich.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Do I need to pay for tickets?

You are prepaid for the tour but are responsible for the Clipper Thames tickets to Greenwich. Tickets are £7.15 for adults and £3.60 for children 5-15. Under 5 travel free. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time, or at the meeting point. Oyster cards can be used on the Clipper Thames.

For centuries, London has been the center of the art market. Names like Christie's, Sotheby’s, and Bonhams are synonymous with luxury art trade today, but where does this tradition come from? On this walk we'll learn about the history of the auction houses, how art dealers function, and how the two interrelate.

The hop-on hop-off service means you can explore this historical city from the comfort of a double-decker tourist bus. The upper deck is open-top to bring you even closer to the tourist attractions.

Choose a 24-hour ticket to spend a day touring London at your own leisure, or opt for the 48-hour ticket to also include one free iVenture London Attraction Pass. With the iVenture pass, you can redeem included admission to one of London's top attractions or have a complimentary lunch at select city restaurants.

Make the most of your visit to London with the two routes offered: the Tower Loop (Red Loop) and the West End Loop (Blue Loop). These two routes have been created specially for you to see all that London has to offer. See the Itinerary for a list of the bus stops as well as the attractions you can visit with the iVenture pass.

You can get on and off the buses as often as you like during your ticket’s validity period. Enjoy the flexibility your ticket offers you so that you can visit London at your own speed and can explore its streets, neighborhoods and leading monuments before returning to one of our 24 buses to continue on your journey.

There are audio guides in 10 different languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, Hindi, Chinese, Japanese and Portuguese. Don’t worry if you haven’t brought a headset of your own: you will be provided with a set free of charge. You will be given an information brochure when you get on one of the buses. In it you’ll find a map of London and more detailed information on the stops along the way.

Walking along Knightsbridge, London's famous shopping center where Harrods is located, you will reach No.1 London, the name given to Apsley house. Built by Adams in 1775 for Baron Apsley and acquired by the Duke of Wellington in 1817, he aggrandized the house with the help of architect Wyatt who gave it the Corinthian temple front and faced it in gold bath stone. It became the grand mansion of the Duke of Wellington, the victor of Napoleon. You will find the treasures regaled to the Duke by the European Monarchs returned to their thrones after the defeat of Napoleon. As you enter the house in the inner hall is the nude marble statue by Canova of Napoleon in the guise of Apollo. See silver and porcelain sets, jewels and snuff boxes surrounded by the Duke's furniture. Upstairs are the paintings which he collected and the old masters from the Royal Spanish collection found in Giuseppe Bonaparte's coach as he was abandoning Madrid. These were given to Wellington by the King of Spain. Among them are paintings by Velazquez, Rubens, Murillo, Ribera and Goya.(On Mondays and Tuesdays when Apsley House is closed more time will be spent in the V&A Museum.)

This private tour is hosted by a professional guide specializing in art history. Please list any special interests you have (art, architecture, history) at time of booking to alert our guide so that he or she can better prepare for your private tour.

Please note: Apsley House will be closed until March 31, 2015, more time will be spent at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Explore a world-class art collection with our energetic guides in the National Gallery. You’ve heard of Seurat and da Vinci, but what do you really know about them? Learn about the painters behind the paintings as we browse our favorite works by other masters like Botticelli, Monet, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. If none of those names mean anything to you, we’ll make sure that changes by the end of the tour.
 
The National Gallery houses paintings dating back to the 1300s all the way up through the 1900s, so there is no shortage of choice. Visit Jan van Eyck’s “The Arnolfini Portrait” or something more familiar like Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” to understand the full scope of work on display. During your private tour, we’ll arm you with the essential information and history needed to appreciate the more than 2300 paintings on display at one of the world’s most visited museums.

After a break for lunch, we will go back to the very beginning of London’s two millennia history in the City, the site of a Roman settlement that became the epicenter of one of the world’s most bustling cities and financial centers. Wander through this tangle of hidden sights to stumble upon the 12th century Temple Church, home to the Knights Templar. Fast-forward through history to discover the medieval Tower of London, home to the beefeaters. Learn about the great fire of 1666 that decimated the city at the Monument before marveling at the domed masterpiece, St. Paul’s Cathedral, rebuilt after the tragedy. You’ll score picturesque views along the Thames, the river spanned by the iconic 19th century Tower Bridge and more modern Millennium Bridge. Your energetic guide will bring London’s long history to life as you weave through the skyscrapers that hide some of its best kept stories.

Choose between a half-day or full-day private tour, and then relax as your expert guide drives you around the city for an in-depth look at the British monarchy. Sites visited on the half-day tour are only seen from the outside, so if you’re eager to see more and really follow in the footsteps of the British Royal Family then book the full-day tour instead! Entry to each attraction will be at your own expense, but your expert guide will show you around and explain the history once inside.

See where Britain’s current monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, was born, and then visit her residence at Buckingham Palace before seeing Westminster Abbey – the site of her coronation. Look out for the shops and stores that hold prestigious Royal Warrants, like Fortnum & Mason, as your driver heads through the city center streets.

Around the city are various statues of famous royals, and your expert guide will point these out as you pass them. See statues of Henry VIII, Alfred the Great and George V – the king whose famous speech impediment was documented in the hit British film, The King’s Speech (featuring Colin Firth). Visit top London attractions like the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament hear how the royals have influenced them over the ages.

Learn about the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and find out who actually lives in each of London’s royal palaces. Hear how royal etiquette dictates how one should greet the Queen, and about the monarchy’s protocols and famously ‘stiff upper lip.’

During your tour your expert guide will be there to answer any questions you may have about the royals and the Queen’s 60 years of sovereignty: Why does the Changing of the Guard ceremony take place? Why does the Queen have two birthdays? What is her correct title? All these questions and more will be answered as Royal London unveils on this private black taxi tour.

Home to British royalty as well as some of the world’s best-known historical monuments, attractions and landmarks, London is a city with sightseeing opportunities aplenty. Hop aboard an open-top Big Bus to soak up the sights of the beloved English capital and discover its delights at your own pace. Three routes are included with your ticket: the Red Route, which lasts for a full 2.5 hours and includes an onboard guide; the Blue Route, which lasts for a full-loop duration of 3.5 hours with audio commentary; and the Green Route, which includes stops at Covent Garden and the British Museum.

For those who want to take it easy, stay on board for the full loops listening to entertaining commentary as you go. If you want to explore the city on foot, hop on and off wherever, and whenever, you like. Big Bus offers a range of activities to do in between daily rides, including three walking tours and a 30-minute River Thames sightseeing cruise. See the Itinerary for a full list of stops and more information on the included daily activities.

With your Classic (1 day), Premium (2 day), or Deluxe (3 day) pass, the sights to see are endless. Travel to Trafalgar Square to stand in awe of Nelson’s Column, or stretch your legs on a stroll through beautiful Hyde Park. With your camera in hand, hop off your bus near Buckingham Palace to capture sights of the Queen’s London home, and look out for must-see landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye and more.

Click on the ‘Additional Info’ button below to see a map of the London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour route.

This is a great day out for anyone with an appreciation for military history and airplanes. Your guide will pick you up at your hotel or at a train/tube station in the morning. Enjoy complimentary drinks and entrance fees on this full-day tour of the Royal Air Force Museum at Hendon.

RAF Hendon houses planes from around the world, dating from over 100 years ago right up to the present day Eurofighter, with special emphasis on the RAF.

Learn all about the Battle of Britain and experience an air raid over London. See the heroics of the early aviation pioneers and learn from your guide’s personal experience, as the workshop of one of his relatives is part of the tour.

Your visit to Hendon can be as long or short as you'd like it to be. There’s certainly more to see than is possible to cover in a single day.

See Spitfires, Hurricanes, Lancasters, Vulcans, Typhoons, Meschersmitts, Stukas, Mustangs, F35s, and over 100 other types of aircraft.

Board your luxury chauffeur driven Range Rover for a day to remember with your licensed Blue Badge guide who will accompany you from London to Stonehenge. On arrival your Blue Badge guide will take you onto the site, where you can enjoy the stones at your leisure with a fascinating guided tour. 

The great and ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is one of the great wonders of the world and has been awarded World Heritage status. Why it was built is a mystery, it has been a pagan place of worship, an astronomical clock and a Bronze age burial ground. Its origins date back almost 5,000 years. Decide for yourself while you discover this unique monument.

For centuries the University of Oxford, and, by proxy, the town in which it is located, has been considered a beacon of learning, imagination, and creativity. During our walks through Oxford, near London, we will consider the prestigious history of the town, its present role and the far-reaching influence that the institution has had on modern intellectual thought, religion, politics, art, and architecture.

• Led by an Oxonian.
• Explore the colleges with an insider.
• Small groups, max 6 people.

Oxford Tour

Our starting point will be Christ Church, perhaps the best known of the university's colleges. A discussion of the structured architectural plan of the colleges (including interlocking dormitories, courtyards, dining facilities, and chapels) will segue into a reflection on the town's rich and varied architectural culture, which we will explore further at Sir Christopher Wren's Sheldonian Theatre, James Gibbs' Radcliffe Camera, and even the Malmaison Hotel, a converted nineteenth-century prison. We may then climb the tower of St. Mary's Church to admire those aforementioned "dreaming spires."

A Look Inside

Oxford exudes intellectual activity and scholarly pursuits. Our visits to the colleges will inform our understanding of student life, both past and present, from the point of view of an insider. We will visit memorials that bear witness to important moments in history, including the that of the Oxford martyrs of the Reformation. We'll also Charles I's Royalist headquarters in Oxford during the English Civil Wars and consider Oxford as a hub of religious change during the Victorian period, as illustrated by such figures as Cardinal John Newman, fellow of Oriel College and protagonist of the Oxford Movement.

"Loved the insights she had into both historical and current affairs."

Additional Options

For those interested in a full day excursion, we can plan a longer itinerary that includes a visit to Blenheim Palace and its ‘Capability’ Brown landscape garden. Those interested in our Oxford Tour may also enjoy our Cambridge Tour or our Stonehenge Tour.

FAQ

Where are we meeting our guide?

You will meet your guide in Oxford, at the train station, however, if you are booking a private tour, we can arrange for a different meeting point. There are trains leaving London to Oxford from Paddington Station every half hour.

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

You will go inside colleges and other sites. We will purchase tickets at the time of the visit.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

We cover about 2.5 miles during the walk. There are plenty of opportunities to sit down and rest, but please let us know if you have any concerns.

Meet your guide at a central location to start your day. On this Royal London walking tour you will see: Charing Cross - starting the tour in the year 1280 we explore what the area would have been like during the reign of Edward I. Georgian Trafalgar Square - understand the use of the area before Trafalgar Square and how the aristocracy were able to display their sportsmanship during rare times of peace.

Edwardian Admiralty Arch - we explore how Edward VII, the son of Queen Victoria made his mark on one of London's streets most iconic streets. St James's Park - the smallest of the Royal Parks, this park was once guarded by the Horse Guards. We find out why.

Buckingham Palace - we discuss not only the monarchs who have called this famous palace home but look to its origins. St James's Palace - a Tudor delight - uncover how this palace began as a hospital and for one monarch became his prison.

Carlton Terrace - opulence and grandeur we peel away the layers to understand the Prince Regent.Lancaster House - used as the interior of Buckingham Palace for the film The King's Speech and TV drama Downton Abbey.

Marlborough House - nearly 300 years old, this Royal Palace has been the home to five Dukes and Duchesses. Clarence House - the official residence of The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall and was once the London home of Her Majesty The Queen, then Princess Elizabeth, and The Duke of Edinburgh following their marriage in 1947.

The tour will start at 8:45am with collection from your London accommodation to start your 1-hour journey southeast. Throughout the day your guide will tell you all about the history and legends of each site visited. They will also entertain you with stories and legends of the United Kingdom's life and culture as you drive through the country.

The tour will visit Rochester Castle and Cathedral first, for 1 to 2-hours. Your guide will walk you around and tell you all about the castle and cathedral's rich past and help take great photos. The guide will also give you a fully-guided walk around the town of Rochester, again showing many of its famous buildings, landmarks, and waterways. Then it's on to the prefect lunch stop, normally with about an hour to eat (at own expense).  

Then, visit the wonderful Dover Castle and spend approximately 2-hours at the site. The guide will stroll with you around the full site of the castle and again tell you all the past of this British army site.

The final stop will be the White Cliffs of Dover which should take around 1-hour. Again, your guide will walk you around the famous landmark and help take photos that will truly make your day.

After, travel the 2-hours back to London, depending on the local traffic, with the tour ending at approximately 7:30pm.

Escape the hustle and bustle of London and explore the highlights of South West England. Step back in time with your guide as you wander historic Canterbury. With your small group (no larger than 16 people), you'll see parts of the famous cathedral dating back to the 6th century. Over lunchtime you can enjoy stunning views from the White Cliffs of Dover or enjoy one of other attractions Dover has to offer. Your day concludes at the enchanting Leeds Castle; perched on two islands in a lake.

This is the perfect day away from London to Canterbury, Dover and Leeds Castle. Your incredible driver-guides will make history come alive through the day whilst on our luxury mini-bus and as you tour Canterbury by foot on an optional complimentary walking tour! 

The day begins as you leave London and journey towards Canterbury, home of Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. Enjoy your guide's storytelling as you make your way to the world-famous cathedral city. The cathedral dates back to 597AD, and you can’t help but be taken back in time in this city steeped in history, with Roman and Norman ruins and streets dotted with pretty timber-framed 16th and 17th-century houses.

The route continues to the closest point to France on mainland Britain, Dover. Here you can walk along the iconic White Cliffs. With spectacular coastal views, this is a must-do to truly experience the incredible English landscape. 

The final stop is Leeds Castle and Gardens, where you’ll be able to step straight off the bus and start exploring! A castle has stood on this breathtaking spot, built upon two islands in a lake, since 1119. Your guide will share the castle's incredible history, it has notably been a Norman stronghold, the private property of six of England’s medieval queens and a palace used by Henry VIII. Now it is one of the most visited properties in Britain. 

This incredible day tour offers the perfect mix of history and scenery for a day away from London, and you'll arrive back around 6:30pm.

See all of London from incredible heights at the top of Western Europe’s tallest building. Your dual entry Day & Night Experience tickets will allow you access to London’s highest viewing platform standing at 800ft (244m) tall anytime between 10am and 6pm, then return two hours later after-dark to see the city sparkle at night!

The View from The Shard’s unrivalled 360 degree panoramic views, stretching over 40 miles of London’s skyline will give you a prime view of the Capital’s landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge and the London Eye. Enjoy an informative digital telescopes to take you through the Capital’s past, present and future. For a multi-sensory experience, head up to the “open-air” skydeck on level 72 where you can feel the breeze and hear the subtle sounds of the city below.

Private Guided Tour of Hampton Court Palace. Follow in the footsteps of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth. Explore the magnificent rooms and see fantastic treasures and works of art. See the huge kitchens and try out the famous Hampton Court Maze!

Hampton Court Palace is one of the best days out imaginable.  We meet you at either your hotel or mutually convenient station at around 9am then travel by private car to Hampton Court Palace, sat in a beautiful location on the River Thames.

With your ticket included, we would explore all that Hampton Court has to offer.  Hampton Court is famous for being a home of King Henry VIII, and we will visit his massive royal kitchens and ancient Great Hall.  Then we will visit the beautiful Chapel Royal before visiting The Cumberland Gallery, which is full of paintings by some of the leading artists in Europe such as Rembrandt and Caravaggio.

The palace has been lived in for centuries, and we can see more recent periods of royal residency including the magnificent state apartments of King William III and the chocolate kitchens.

Finally, Hampton Court is surrounded by some of the most beautiful gardens anywhere, and we can have a walk in the fresh air before visiting the world-famous Hampton Court Maze.

The tour will end with us returning by car back to our starting point.

This is a totally unrushed and bespoke tour, very different from the busy and quick coach tours.

After your central London pickup, we depart London and head for Burford. Upon arrival in the small picturesque town, you will give given free time to explore. The main street in the town slopes gently down to the river Windrush and is lined with lots of old houses and ancient cottages all of which appear to have not changed since Tudor times .There are also wonderful little side streets to explore, old pubs, tea and antique shops aplenty. You may wish to visit the town’s museum, The Tolsey, an early Tudor building which holds two rooms of exhibits which tell of the trades that once flourished, from brewing, to leatherworking (please note: The museum is open from April to October, afternoons Tuesday to Sunday).

We then will go on to visit Bourton on the Water where you will again have free time to enjoy this beautiful area and grab some lunch (own expense). Bourton-on-the-Water is a village that is know for it's quaint High Street, and the River Windrush that is crossed by several stone bridges. Bourton has been referred to as the "Venice of the Cotswolds". You may wish to visit The Dragonfly Maze during our stop, and walk round the half a mile of pathways looking out for the 14 numbered clues. Or perhaps you could visit Birdland, and see its nine acres of woodland, river and gardens. The natural setting is inhabited by over 500 birds. Flamingos, pelicans, penguins, storks, and waterfowl can be seen here as well as over 50 aviaries of parrots, falcons, pheasants and many more!

We will then depart Bourton on the Water and begin our journey back to central London. Your tour manager will be sure to point out the villages and views of the countryside during our return drive as well as the exciting history of the area. The will also make stop for photos throughout. Our approximate arrival time back into London is 18:30pm.

In 1666, the medieval city all but disappeared in the Great Fire of London. The city was rebuilt on the footprint of its predecessor, but once again fell in danger of destruction during the Blitz of 1940-1941. One of the worst nights was the Sunday between Christmas and New Year's Day, December 29, 1940, when German planes devastated the area around St Paul’s while most Londoners were enjoying their Christmas break. Those working on the ground dubbed it 'The Second Great Fire of London. On this London WWII Tour, led by a local historian, we'll explore this dark chapter of the city's history, and discover how Churchill's leadership and England's resilience allowed them to overcome the fierce bombings.

• London WWII Tour led by a local historian.
• Includes visits to the Museum of London and St Paul's Cathedral.
• Small group walks—6 people max

"I ended the tour having walked the Blitz, felt inspired by the resilience of the British population."

London WWII Tour

Our walk will start at the Museum of London with its post-1666 galleries, a recent addition, where we will discuss the life of Londoners before and during the war. We will continue with a walk into the Barbican and then to Guildhall, telling the story of that fateful night in 1940 and the people who fought to save what they could of the city and its people. Thanks to the vigilance of the firewatchers on the roof of St Paul's, the cathedral, a symbol of strength for Londoners, was saved.

After the Blitz

Much of the City of London was rebuilt, and most important buildings were restored while others were removed altogether. We will see sites that fit into both categories: churches carefully put back together and others that were left as ruins—a memorial to that awful night. We will pass by the original location of St. Mary Aldermanbury, dismantled and shipped to Fulton, Missouri after the war.

At St. Paul's

Our walk will end at St. Paul's (which we delve further into on our St. Paul's Cathedral Tour), in which we will learn more about the church that helped sustain the spirit of the city's residents. If time and stamina allow, we will climb to the very top, above the dome, and marvel at the roofs of the cathedral, so carefully protected every night by its teams of volunteers. From there, we have a bird's eye view of the city through which we have been walking.

Take Aways

Finishing our tour, we'll come away with an understanding of how fragile the fabric of cities really are. We will also develop a deeper knowledge at the havoc caused by both the two 'Great Fires' of London and how the local community came together on both occasions, to restore the city to its former glory.

Note: This walk can be customized to include the Churchill War Rooms.

To discover more about how London was rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, we suggest our Christopher Wren Churches Tour.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins near the Museum of London and ends at St. Paul's. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

We will go inside the Museum of London and St. Paul's.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but most of this tour takes place indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

This walk covers about 1 mile overall. There are occasional opportunities to sit, use the bathroom, and get something to drink if needed.

Relax on board your open-top bus as you travel around central London and see the sights. Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the London Eye are just a few of the landmarks you might see.

Hop off your bus near the Tower of London, and pose for photos in front of the formidable monument. Hear how the tower is now home to the world-famous Crown Jewels, and admire the smartly dressed Beefeater guards who protect them.

Walk along the river to Tower Pier and board a Thames River sightseeing boat for your 1-hour afternoon tea cruise to Westminster. Sit out on deck or relax in the comfy seats in the saloon, and listen to audio commentary about all the sites. Cruise under London Bridge, gaze at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and take in beautiful views of the London Eye just across the river.

No visit to London is complete without sampling a cup of tea alongside quintessentially British scones with jam and clotted cream. So do just that, and enjoy the sweet treats and a glass of Champagne, too.

When your cruise ends, travel back to the start point by coach.

See the best of London’s National Gallery, one of the world’s most visited art museums, on this private 3.5-hour tour. With a specialist art historian guide, tick off the gallery’s most impressive paintings and learn more about the artists behind them. Get up close to works by the Italian greats, including da Vinci and Michelangelo, and Flemish masterpieces from the likes of Rubens and Campin. You’ll also take in timeless paintings by French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists such as Monet, Renoir, Picasso and Cezanne.
Choose from a morning or afternoon tour, and then make your own way to the National Gallery, a striking Pantheon-style art museum raised on a terrace overlooking Nelson’s Column and the iconic lion statues in London’s Trafalgar Square.
Meet your guide, an art history specialist, and then head inside to trace European art across the centuries. The National Gallery boasts one of Europe’s greatest collections of paintings by the Old Masters (European artists whose notable works were produced between the Renaissance and 18th century), and houses more than 2,300 artworks dating from the Middle Ages through the 20th century.
Stroll from room to room, taking in the mosaic floors, marble pillars and floor-to-ceiling art, and listen as your specialist guide talks you through the gallery’s key masterpieces as well as the artists behind them.
Throughout your private tour, pay special attention to the Italian greats — from the 13th-century Masters to the High Renaissance of Piero della Francesca, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo — and the Flemish school of art, including works by Rubens, van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden and Campin, considered by many to be the first great master of Flemish and Early Netherlandish painting.
See, too, masterpieces from Rembrandt, as well as the gallery’s French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists collection, one of the finest of its kind in the world — crammed with timeless works by Renoir, Monet, Pisarro, Cezanne, van Gogh, Matisse and Picasso.
After roughly 3.5 hours, your tour concludes inside the National Gallery, leaving you free to continue exploring independently, should you wish.

Embark on a classic 1-hour Thames sightseeing cruise with a difference: you can hop off at any of the stops along the way. Cruise from Westminster to Tower Bridge, stopping at Embankment Pier, Festival Pier, Bankside Pier, and St. Katharine's Pier, before returning non-stop to Westminster. Enjoy live audio commentary and modern facilities, including toilets and licensed bar.

Modern and traditional riverboats depart from Westminster Pier every 40 minutes at busy times, and hourly during less busy times, from 11am until 3pm in winter and 5pm in summer.

All the vessels include a licensed bar, with light refreshments, and audio commentary. The Sapele and Mercuria have open top decks and climate-controlled interiors. The Sarah Kathleen is a more traditional river-craft, covered with a simple canopy awning for maximum views, and runs only during summer.

You can choose to enjoy a circular cruise from Big Ben to Tower Bridge and back, or hop off at stops along the way. You'll stop at Embankment Pier, Festival Pier, Bankside Pier, and St. Katharine's Pier before the boat turns round and returns non-stop to Westminster.

Along the way,  admire sights including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, the Shard, the Globe Theatre, the Tower of London, and much, much more. Your captain will provide a live audio commentary on key landmarks and London history as you glide along the river.

If you choose not to stop off en route, you'll be back at Westminster Pier an hour after you set off.

On this tour, you will follow in the footsteps of the Romans, who built the nearly 2000 year old wall still visible today. Wander through this tangle of hidden sights to stumble upon the 12th century Temple Church, home to the Knights Templar.

Fast-forward through history to discover the medieval Tower of London, home to the beefeaters. Learn about the great fire of 1666 that decimated the city at the Monument before marveling at the domed masterpiece, St. Paul’s Cathedral, rebuilt after the tragedy.

You’ll see picturesque views along the Thames, the river spanned by the iconic 19th century Tower Bridge and more modern Millennium Bridge. Your energetic guide will bring London’s long history to life as you weave through the skyscrapers that hide some of its best kept stories.

Pick up your London Flexi Attractions Pass from one of the central London redemption points or Heathrow Airport and choose from some of the city’s most popular attractions, tours, West End theater shows and restaurants. With the flexibility to choose from a 3-, 5-,7- or 10- Attractions Pass (each with a 1-month validity), the card allows you to experience London’s top attractions at your own pace.

Use your complimentary full-color London information map to plan your schedule. Packed with helpful information about each attraction, with highlighted attraction maps to help you find your way around with ease.

Head to the View from the Shard for unparalleled views of London’s famous skyline or visit the London Zoo.

Round off an evening with a visit to a West End theater show. Several select musicals and plays are included with the pass. While these change frequently, typical shows include War Horse, Mamma Mia! and The 39 Steps.

Your card includes admission to three, five, seven or 10 London attractions; simply choose from the list below.

*Attractions are subject to change

Meet your private guide in central London in the morning, or start your tour with a pickup at your London hotel. Then, take a seat in your vehicle and relax on the onward journey to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed city of Bath.

On arrival, explore the pretty streets as your private guide sheds light on over 2,000 years of Bath history — from the Roman era to today. Along the way, admire fine examples of Georgian architecture such as the famous 18th-century Royal Crescent.

Discover stylish boutiques among the historic markets, and take in top city attractions like the restored Roman Baths and Pump House. Learn how the city’s thermal waters attracted the Romans and stroll along original Roman streets.

Next, travel onward to the Salisbury Plains, home to the UNESCO–listed stone circle of Stonehenge — widely considered among the world’s most fascinating prehistoric sites. Learn of the stones’ mysteries in the state-of-the-art Vistors’ Centre, then take the short shuttle journey to the stones themselves.

Walk around the ancient stone circle and perhaps decide for yourself the reasons for its creation. Soak up the spiritual atmosphere, then transfer back to your London hotel via the beautiful Wiltshire countryside.

Starting from your hotel in Central London and head west to Oxfordshire where the Bicester Shopping Village is located. After a journey of no longer than two hours, you will arrive for your independent shopping experience with your exclusive chauffeur.

The Bicester Shopping Village is an outdoor, luxury shopping outlet, where you will find a wide variety of chic boutiques that showcase fabulously discounted labels from the leading fashion and lifestyle brands. The luxury brands featured in Bicester Village include UGG, Guess, DKNY and Prada, many of whom feature discounts of up to 60 percent off the recommended retail price. A more detailed list of Bicester Village’s boutiques is provided in the itinerary section below.

There are not only luxurious boutiques to discover, but so much more to enjoy here. Many of the stores have in-house stylists, who will happily offer you a complimentary style consultancy, should you wish. When you've had enough of shopping, why not relax in one of the numerous cafes and restaurants in Bicester Village (own expense).

This luxury outlet offers all the things you would expect from a department store, in an incomparable village environment to make your visit effortless. When you are finished shopping for the day, your chauffeur driven luxury vehicle will take you, and all your shopping bags, back to your hotel in central London.

Canterbury is a town rightly famous for its cathedral and the pilgrimages that its shrine to Thomas Becket has inspired over the years—including the pilgrims in Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. However, there is much more to the UNESCO World Heritage Site than its status as an important religious site. This Canterbury Tour, led by a local historian, examines the Roman remains of the town in addition to both more-famous and lesser-known medieval buildings, painting a wide-ranging picture of Roman Britain and medieval England.

• Canterbury Tour led by local expert historian
• Discover Canterbury's lesser-known Roman origin
• Includes a visit to the Canterbury Cathedral
• Small group—6 people max

Canterbury Tour

Taking the train from London, we will arrive in town at Canterbury West station. From here, we will enter the city through the Westgate, the same point at which so many pilgrims throughout the years have entered. The gate lies on the site of the Roman gate into the city, so this monument can be seen as representative of much of Canterbury's early history. Depending on the time and the interest of the group, we may pop into the Roman Museum where we will examine the remains of a rich Roman house and its mosaics, while discussing Roman domestic life amongst the elites. Alternatively, we may take the short walk to the church of St. Mary Northgate, where the remains of the Roman wall of the town, almost at its full height, can still be seen in its north wall.

Following the Roman Wall

Continuing along the path of the Roman wall, we'll arrive at St. Martin's Church, whose site marks the beginning of English Christianity in the late sixth century. We will look at the history of this church and its importance. From here, we may consider Eastbridge Hospital, which was built in 1176 in response to the huge influx of pilgrims now arriving to see the shrine of Thomas Becket.

Those interested in medieval London may also be interested in our Hidden London Tour.

Finding the Friars

A stone's throw away is the thirteenth-century Blackfriars. What is visible today today is all that remains of a much larger friary that was situated on an island in the middle of the Stour River, which runs though Canterbury. The Blackfriars, the Dominican order of monks, were part of one of three orders who settled here in the medieval period. The others were the Greyfriars and Whitefriars, the Franciscan and Carmelite orders respectively. It is to the latter we now go, where we will briefly discuss a recent archaeological dig that has brought to light much of the history of Canterbury.

Take Aways

From there, our walk will take us to the famous, eleventh- and twelfth-century cathedral, where we will examine the location of the Archbishop Thomas Becket's murder and later shrine. This shrine was the focus for the pilgrims arriving in the city and formed the inspiration for Chaucer's 'A Pilgrim's Tale'. The importance of the shrine and its appearance, as it was destroyed during the Reformation, will be discussed, and will serve as the end-point of our walk.

If you are interested in learning more about the relationship between church and government, you may enjoy our London Parliament Tour.

FAQ

Where will we meet our guide?

We meet at Canterbury West Train Station. Once you book, we will send you detailed instructions on how to reach the station and find your docent.

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

We visit several sites, including Canterbury Cathedral.

Will you pre-purchase tickets?

You will purchase your Cathedral ticket at venue, but your docent will have special access privileges, so you will not wait in line.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The walk covers about 2 miles, but it's at leisurely pace and on even ground. The walk is fully accessible. The Cathedral Welcome Centre has a small number of wheelchairs available for free loan to visitors (for use within the precincts).

Join a Level 26 Pokemon Trainer and Pokemon Gym Leader* on a Pokemon London walk which gives you the best chance of covering a variety of different Pokemon types as well as fruitful Pokestops and iconic London gyms. This Pokemon London adventures aim to increase your Pokemon knowledge via pokestops, hunting specific Pokemon for your pokedex, improving your catching capabilities and increasing your own team gym prestige. Meet your guide at a central location to start your day. Explore some of London's key landmarks while on the hunt for Pokemon. Explore the area of London Bridge while on the hunt to catch water and psychic Pokemon before we move to the exciting area of More London.

Then cross Tower Bridge and head towards the Tower of London in the hunt for Rock and Grass Pokemon which have been known to hide there. What will we find?  It is optional to end the tour with a gym battle / training session, then bid farewell to your guide.No matter what level you have reached or which team you are a member of, you will enjoy exploring both real and virtual London simultaneously on this unique tour.

The tour will start at 8:45am with pickup from your hotel or private accommodation in London. Board your private, modern, heated and air-conditioned vehicle which can comfortably seat 7 travelers. Vehicles utilized for tours are modern 7- to 8-seater MPV's (Mercedes, Ford, Kia, Seat, Hyundai or similar). Your driver/guide will tell you all about the history and legends of each site visited, they will entertain you as you drive around the country with stories and legends of UK history, life and culture.

The first stop will be the wonderful Stonehenge (entrance not included) where you will spend approximately 1.5 hours at the site. The guide will fully walk you around the entire site of Stonehenge including the visitor center and the stone circle itself.  Listen as your guide shares historical accounts and legends of this world famous site. Your guide will be happy to take photos of you and your group, so no need for someone to be out of the photos.

Next, take a short 10 minute drive to the lesser known, Woodhenge. This site is free to visit, so no ticket is needed. This magical place also contains the site of Durrington Walls and it is critical to the legend of Stonehenge and will help you understand Stonehenge itself in a whole new way! Spend about 30 minutes at the site and again your guide take you for a walk around and tell you all the history and legends. Your guide has special knowledge of one of the best places to take a truly wonderful photo that you will love.

The final stop will be an hour's drive away, and it will be the giant Stone Age circle of Avebury. This is also a free site to visit, so not ticket is required for entry. You will spend between 1.5 to 2 hours at this site. You'll be able to walk inside the stone circle itself, you can touch the stones, and you will even be able to walk on top of the henge if your included for a view that will surely take your breath away.  This is a big change to Stonehenge where travelers are restricted and provides you with an entirely view of stone circles. The guide will again stay with you and walk you around the stones telling you all its stories linked with this site and past history.

Afterwards, and before making the trip back to London, your driver/guide will make an extra stop at a surprise location.  The drive back to London will take around 2 hours, depending on the local traffic, with the tour ending at approximately 7:30pm.

London’s vibrant markets originated in the Middle Ages, when street sellers pedaled no-nonsense food to London’s city workers. Proving ever popular, the markets you’ll find today are scattered all over the capital and sell everything from artsy antiques to vintage clothing to cutting-edge fashion accessories.

With so much to choose from, scouting out the best markets can be difficult and take up too much of your valuable time. Luckily, you’ll have a knowledgeable private driver to give you the best insider tips and drive you to the markets that you simply can’t miss!

After picking you up from your hotel, your driver will chat with you about suggested markets, and then you’ll be on your way. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your day of bargain hunting based on your preferences – just let your driver know where you want to go.

Check out the foodie hotspot of Borough Market, where nearly 100 stalls sell gourmet delights and cheap eats. Producers from around the country showcase their wares here, and you’ll be encouraged to try samples galore while walking around. Shop for tongue-tantalizing olive oils and taste exquisite cheeses, cured meats, artisan breads and more!

Portobello Market is another must-visit market that should definitely top your list. Selling a wide range of clothes, antiques, food and general knick-knacks, the market stretches the length of Portobello Road in west London, right through the trendy Notting Hill neighborhood.

East London boasts several of the capital’s best markets; choose to visit iconic ones like Brick Lane, with its retro furniture and bric-a-brac stalls, or Spitalfields Market, where vintage clothes and homemade gifts are sold in a covered Victorian hall.

After eight hours of browsing London’s best markets, your private driver will drop back at your hotel.

With a Thames Clippers River Roamer ticket you can hop-on and hop-off along the banks of the Thames between Millbank Pier to Royal Arsenal Woolwich, including Waterloo Pier, Embankment pier, Tower Pier, Canary Wharf, Greenwich Pier and The O2, London's most popular venue for concerts and events, currently hosting the extremely popular exhibit - Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs.

Create your own London itinerary as you cruise the Thames, hopping on and off where you please, adhering to your own schedule and no-one else's.

Head inside Kew Gardens and then spend as little or as much time as you like exploring London’s finest botanical gardens. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kew Gardens consists of acres of tranquil grounds with one of the world’s largest collections of plants. Either walk around at leisure or join one of the free guided walking tours that take place daily in the gardens.

Stroll around admiring highlights like the Azalea Garden, Minka House and Bamboo Garden in the center of the park. Check out the 17th century-style Queen’s Garden near Kew Palace (also known as the Dutch House), and see several of Kew’s oldest sculptures that were donated by the British Royal Family.

Perhaps take a walk along the Rhizotron and Xstrara Treetop Walkway, and stroll through the crowns of oak trees at a height of 59 feet (18m), seeing birdlife, fungi and lichen up close. Watch out for the 10-storey Pagoda in the southwest corner of the gardens, and wander along the Holly Walk, seeing trees that have grown there for over 130 years.

Bask in balmy tropical temperatures inside Temperate House – the world’s largest surviving Victorian glasshouse – and see a spectacular array of African plants and sub-tropical trees and palms. In the center of the beautiful building is a Chilean Wine Palm, which is said to be one of the world’s tallest indoor plants.

With plenty of leafy picnic areas, as well as four cafés on site, you can eat lunch inside the gardens (own expense), or simply sit down and relax in between seeing all the rich flora and fauna.

Meet your private guide at the time of your choosing at your centrally located London hotel or Westminster Tube Station. Then, head onward to 221B Baker Street — the famous fictional address of Holmes and now home to the Sherlock Holmes Museum.

On arrival, visit the house (own expense) and explore rooms left as they would have been during Holmes’ residency. After your visit, perhaps browse Sherlock Holmes memorabilia at the neighboring store.

Continue onward through central London and discover sites made famous in Sherlock, the BBC television adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous tales. Perhaps visit Russell Square to see where John Watson met the old friend that would change his life forever, or go to New Scotland Yard — headquarters of the Metropolitan Police on historic Whitehall.

See the exact spot where Holmes jumps — or falls — to his supposed death in the Sherlock cliff-hanger episode ‘The Reichenbach Fall’, then return in comfort to your London hotel to conclude your tour.

At 1am, you will meet the coach and driver Opposite Earls Court Underground Station, Warwick Road Exit - Please Wait at London Bus Stop C in Front of former/closed Exhibition Centre. (Please note, we cannot hold the coach for late running passengers)

Once all passengers are on board the coach, we will depart for Stonehenge. We are expected to arrive by approximately 2:30am and you will then have free time to explore the Summer Solstice event and watch the sunrise amongst the stones at approximately 4:52am. 

At 6:30am, we will depart Stonehenge to arrive back at Earls Court Underground Station for around 9am.

Charles Dickens called London his 'Magic Lantern.' The city not only became his inspiration but also served almost as a character itself in his novels. He tramped the streets alone from an early age and was himself a wonderful mimic of the living characters he found there. This 3-hour Dickens Tour of London focuses on the life and work of Charles Dickens. By connecting a number of his works to the places related to his life and characters, we will paint a portrait of Dickens, his times, and the social context in which he lived.

• Dickens Tour of London led by historian or literature expert
• A insider's view into Dickens's London
• Small group—6 people max

Dickens Tour London

We start our walk near Temple, discussing Dickens's early years as a young worker in the Blacking Warehouse and the influence that those years had in creating characters like Oliver Twist and Little Dorrit. We will discuss the geographic division of the city and the presence of the famous rookeries—nineteenth-century slums—in the heart of London.

Convent Garden

After a short walk, we will find ourselves in the area of Covent Garden. Here, we will discuss Dickens's connection to the place both as a child and as a famous writer. From here, we may head towards Bloomsbury, the center of literary London and home to the Dickens family from 1837 to 1839 (we also offer a London Literature Tour in Bloomsbury). Alternatively, we may delve into Marylebone, where the writer lived for over ten years. Then again, we might explore the areas around Saint Bartholomew, Newgate, and Holborn, where scenes of many exciting episodes in his novels took place.

Dickens's Daily Life

If time allows, and depending on interest, we may visit 48 Doughty Street, the only remaining London home of Charles Dickens. Here, among rare manuscripts and original furniture, we'll talk about Dickens's daily life and his work as a novelist and tireless social campaigner. The characters described by Dickens are intrinsically linked to his life in London as a writer and publisher and as direct witness of the terrible social conditions of the nineteenth century. As a result, our walk will look closely at the social and economic events of the 1800s and paint a portrait of the times in this context.

Hungry? Try our London Food Tour.

Take Aways

The tour will offer us ample opportunity to discuss the influence of the city and its history on the style and on the personal life of Dickens and his contemporaries working in other disciplines. By the end of our time together we will emerge with a very vivid picture of the era in this context.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where do we end?

We start our walk near Temple, and typically end at 48 Doughty Street, the only remaining London home of Charles Dickens. You confirmation email will have the exact meeting point information, along with a map, and emergency phone number.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! If your children are familiar with Dickens, we some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of kids and teens. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The tour moves at a leisurely pace and covers about 1.5 miles.

You will start your day by meeting your guide at the fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square.
You will be taken on a fascinating journey through time in a city that is a 1000 years old. Your guide is an expert story teller and will make the buildings come to life. You will be given history, facts, dates but not to much that your brain starts to hurt.
You will see Buckingham Palace, St James Palace, Palace of Westminster, St James Park, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, The London Eye, The Horse Guards Parade and depending on the day The changing of the guard or the Changing of the Horse Guards).

Next we take a beautiful cruise on the Thames River  for 30 minutes passing by the City of London your guide will entertain you with informative and fun information about the old Roman city, St Pauls Cathedral, Modern architecture, London Bridge, Tower bridge, The Globe theatre, The Tate modern they will inform you of the dubious past of the South side of the river Thames as wells allowing you time to relax and enjoy the sights. ( The boat is covered for those rare rainy days.

The cruise will come to an end at the Tower of London where you can visit (optional) this medieval castle and have a complimentary tour with a Beefeater (highly recommended).

Make you own way to the Banqueting House, located near the Thames River and 10 Downing Street, where the British prime minister lives and works. This 17th-century building is the only remaining part of the Palace of Whitehall, a vast royal complex that was burnt to the ground in 1698.

Before you enter, pause outside the front of the building on the pavement. This is the spot where Charles I was beheaded on a brutally cold day in 1649, after being convicted of high treason. Head inside to learn more about Charles I and to explore the interior. Architect Inigo Jones designed the Italianate Renaissance-style building and took inspiration for the design from a recent trip to Italy, .

Wander through the impressive banqueting hall, which would have been used as a venue for entertainment. Look out for a bronze bust of James I, which sits above the door in the banqueting hall. The bust was designed by Hubert Le Sueur, who also made the equestrian statue of Charles I in Charing Cross, near Trafalgar Square.

Take some time to soak up Rubens' impressive canvases — exuberant masterpieces that adorn the ceiling of Banqueting House. Commissioned by Charles I, the paintings glorify his father, King James I.

Spend as long as you want in the palace. Once you leave, make your own way back to your accommodation or continue sightseeing.

Sit back and relax as you soak in the evening beauty of London’s iconic sites in the heart of the East End. In your luxury Mercedes private car, see the illuminated landmarks of Canary Wharf, Stratford, the O2, St Katherine Docks and much more. This magical evening tour is a breathtaking way to see London’s hidden gems!

Enjoy a complimentary pick up directly from your hotel in an air-conditioned luxury Mercedes private car as you embark on a magical evening drive through London’s East End and discover its iconic landmarks under the night sky.

See the breathtaking views of the River Thames as you drive along the Embankment and witness the beauty of the Tower of London at night as you head towards London’s East End.

Admire the grandeur of London’s Olympic Stadium lit up at night along with Britain’s largest sculpture – the ArcelorMittal Orbit – made with 35,000 bolts and enough steel to build 265 double-decker buses!

Immerse yourself in the spectacular skyline of Canary Wharf and get up close and personal to some of Europe’s tallest buildings. Witness to awe-inspiring transformation of this East London gem, historically one of Britain’s busiest docks and now one of the most important financial districts in the world.

Be dazzled by the O2, London’s state-of-the-art arena, before stopping for a stroll in the tranquil and picturesque St Katherine Docks - the only marina in Central London - with the option of dinner in one of the many restaurants overlooking the peaceful waters.

Finally, enjoy a complimentary drive back directly to your hotel in your air-conditioned luxury Mercedes private car.

To understand London, you first need to understand its long, complex history. Our expert guides will peel back the layers as you walk past some of the most iconic places in central London like Trafalgar Square and the House of Parliament. Learn about Chaucer at Westminster Abbey or maybe bump into the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street. The tour will pass through the sweeping green parks, bustling crowds, and quaint squares that make up this fascinating urban landscape. Learn about the monarchs and leaders, like Queen Elizabeth II and Winston Churchill, while also taking advantage of your local guide, who will be more than willing to share a few of the city’s best kept secrets as you explore together.

This private black taxi tour, ideal for the whole family, takes you to both London’s most famous sites and its hidden treasures. Enjoy a comfortable drive around London in a traditional black taxi and stop at each landmark for a photograph and a historical explanation. Visit Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament and much more!

While driving through London in your private taxi, you'll also stop and see many of London’s hidden treasures -- places that "normal" tourists never get to see! Wander through alleyways and hear tales of murder and mystery! See the smallest house in London, the smallest square in town, explore Henry VIII’s cow shed and see his tennis court. Visit shops that are over 300 years old and still trading and see a house with false windows, a Roman Bath, a medieval banquet hall and Winston Churchill’s own cigar chair!
Upgrade your private black taxi tour to include an extra hour of sightseeing and discover even more hidden treasures of London!

Perfect for days out in London, this tours has been specifically designed to show you all the sights of the city in 75 minutes. This tour gives you a flavor of the swinging sixties on a timeless Routemaster bus, now converted into an open top bus and filled with state of the art technology.

Handpicked by comedy writers and directors, your London tour guides will come from a wide variety of professional entertainment backgrounds. From award winning comedians to the finest tour guides in the city with years of experience, the performers bring you a comedy tour like no other.

The tours provide more than just the finest things to see in London, the buses are equipped with high definition screens and an exclusively designed sound system. With footage of London through the ages and site-specific music and songs, this tour immerses you in the London experience.

Travel by car through the lovely Kent countryside along the route pilgrims followed for centuries to Canterbury Cathedral, the mother church for the Anglican faithful around the world. On this 6-hour private tour you’ll visit both the Cathedral and the city.

Enter through the imposing front gates and marvel at the magnificence of Canterbury Cathedral both inside and out. Explore the interior and see the many memorials and dedications, and the chapels that offer opportunity for silent prayer and meditation.

You may want to light a candle for a loved one before visiting the spot where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered by the king’s knights – an act that contributed to his eventual sainthood.

There will be time to explore the city’s winding lanes and to admire its many fine buildings as well.

With its dome commanding the London skyline, St. Paul's Cathedral stands emblematic of London's 17th century—the era of Newton, the Great Fire, and the emergence of England as a world power. It also took on a newfound importance in the modern era, with its continued standing representing the resilience of the British during World War II. In this St. Paul's Cathedral Tour, led by an architectural historian, we'll dive deeply into this masterpiece, the history it encompasses, and its continued impact.

• Discover the impact behind St. Paul's Cathedral
• Led by an architectural historian
• Small group—6 people max

The Fire

We'll begin with a short walk of the grounds of St. Paul's Cathedral, where archaeologists have recently uncovered the foundations of the Chapter House and St. Paul's Cross, a significant discovery that predates the present structure. However, our conversation will focus on what was arguably the most significant event of the 17th century in London—the Great Fire of 1666. Using drawings, maps, and other ancillary materials we will narrate the events of the Fire and its aftermath.

We will also discuss Old St. Paul's, the Gothic structure that occupied this site until 1666 when it was destroyed in the fire. This will help us understand how this part of London served as the center of the Roman Catholic Church in London before the sixteenth-century Reformation transformed England's religious affiliation.

St. Paul's Cathedral Tour

On entering the cathedral, we will be confronted by a magnificent and spacious interior, beautifully adorned with natural light. This lends itself to a detailed discussion of its designer, Sir Christopher Wren, the Latinist and Aristotelian scholar who became surveyor general of London in the wake of the Fire. As we explore, our attention will be drawn to the architectural details conceived by Wren and made executed through the insight and ability of his trusted team of master craftsmen. We'll look at how Wren was influenced by antiquity and the great architects of his age, including Bernini, whom he met in Paris.

Interested in learning more about religious architecture in London? Try our Westminster Abbey Tour.

The Impact

No monument exists in a vacuum, and this is true of St. Paul's. We will look at some of the nineteenth-century Victorian additions to the structure and their impact on the integrity Wren's vision. We will also look at some of the monuments and tombs that commemorate illustrious eighteenth- and nineteenth-century figures, including Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington, heroes of the Napoleonic Wars. At the east end of the cathedral, we will find the American Memorial Chapel, which was dedicated to the 28,000 members of United States Armed Forces who gave their lives on British soil during World War II and which holds a Roll of Honor that names them all. And, of course, we'll stop by Wren's own tomb where the epitaph reads "Si monumentum requiris circumspice" ("If you seek his monument, look around.")

Thematic Approach

The ways in which St. Paul's has been used as a religious and cultural symbol throughout its history, as well as the position it has held as a focal point for English and British national identity will become apparent in a number of ways when we discuss St. Paul's: as an architectural tour de force, as the vision of one man, as a place to remember and celebrate great figures and events from history, as a site of historical importance for London, and as an Anglican place of worship.

Then, depending on the preference of the group, we can either climb the dome to further examine Wren's architectural innovations, experience spectacular views of the city skyline, and hear ghostly whispers in the famous Whispering Gallery, or we can continue exploring Wren's architecture with a short city walk looking at several of his smaller city churches.

Take Aways

On this tour, we'll use St. Paul's as a text of sorts, where it is possible to read the history London's Stuart age. Together, we'll discover that it emblematic not just of man's desire to reflect divinity on earth, but also of our apparent need to memorialize the great figures and momentous events that are scattered across centuries of this land's history.

This is a great companion to our London City Tour.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins near St. Paul’s and ends inside the cathedral. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

Is this tour good for kids?

While we do have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children, we have a separate walk, The Blitz: London During the War. This includes St. Paul’s among other other locations, and is specifically geared towards children.

What if it’s raining?

This tour takes place almost entirely indoors.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

No, this tour takes place almost entirely within the cathedral.

This unique tour transports you back to the most defining decade in 20th Century Britain as you pass by iconic music venues and locations on the way to the Cradle of Rock. You’ll see the locations of the Chelsea Drug Store, immortalised in The Rolling Stones’ song ‘You Can’t Always Get What You Want’ and Mary Quant’s boutique ‘Bazaar’ famed inventor of the mini skirt. View the architectural splendour of The Pheasantry, once owned by Eric Clapton in the 60s, the site of ‘Granny Takes a Trip’, the first psychedelic boutique in London who’s customers included Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart and many other music legends and socialites of the 60s. Then onto the Half Moon Pub in Putney where, allegedly, live music has been played there every night since 1963 and has hosted the world’s biggest names in folk, blues and rock. Olympic Studios in Barnes has featured more prominently in recording the world’s top bands than any other… including Abbey Road! 

You'll take in the homes of celebrated 60s music legends and locations like Twickenham Film Studios where The Beatles filmed ‘HELP!’ and ‘A Hard Day’s Night’. You’ll see where 'Sir' Rod Stewart got his first break and you’ll hear about the famous artists who performed at the Richmond Jazz and Blues Festival between 1961 and 1965 as we stop on the very site and you'll capture the views from the top of Richmond Hill, immortalized in paintings by Sir Joshua Reynolds and J. M. W. Turner - it was described by Sir Walter Scott as "an unrivalled landscape". The view from the north side of Richmond Hill was protected by an Act of Parliament in 1902.

In addition to live commentary from your friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, they will play 60s hit music by the seminal artists who regularly performed at local venues such as The Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, The Beatles, Elton John, The Yardbirds, David Bowie, The Who, Cream, Pink Floyd, The Kinks, Manfred Mann, The Animals, Genesis, Long John Baldry, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Mott The Hoople.

Keep your eyes out for the occasional music celebrity hopping aboard to share some amazing 60s memories. Recent guests have included Steve Hackett (Genesis), John Fiddler (Medicine Head), (Atomic Rooster), Don Craine (Downliners Sect) Derek Griffiths (The Artwoods), John Gieves-Watson (The Temperance Seven & Bob Kerr's Whoopee Band), Mike Berry, Debi Doss (The Buggles and Kinks backing singer) Phil Lanzon (Uriah Heep) and Peter French (Atomic Rooster).

Get up to speed on one of London's hottest areas, East London, on this 4-hour walking tour with private, local guide. You'll see how Shoreditch and Hoxton have transformed from working class areas to creative hubs, explore Brick Lane and Spitalfields Market, and much, much more. Your guide will tailor the precise details of the tour to suit your personal interests, whether that's art, fashion, design, or food, and include any particular sights you want to see.

As this is a personalized tour, you can start any time between 9am and 3pm. You'll meet your guide at Spitalfields Market – arrive an hour or so early to give yourself time to explore the maze of funky stores and eateries at your own pace. Over coffee at a cafe that locals know for the best java in town, plan out your tour – or choose to follow this recommended itinerary.

After meeting your guide and getting to know them, head to Brick Lane, one of East London's most diverse destinations, at 1:30pm. Explore vintage stores, vinyl shops, event spaces, bakeries, and more, all the while inhaling the delicious scent of the East End's national dish: curry.

At 3pm, your guide will recommend a great local restaurant for an Indian lunch (own expense). Next, stroll down the road to Shoreditch to explore a pop-up mall in shipping containers, where artists and creative designers exhibit and sell their work in bespoke spaces. The two-storey container set-up is also home to restaurants, bars, and terraces, where you can eat, drink, and look out over the East End.

Finally, walk to Old Street and explore the Old Street and Hoxton areas, known for their vibrant nightlife. Wander down side streets to view some great street art and uncover hidden gems such as a motorcycle café nestled within the fabric of the community. This version of the tour would end at Old Street tube station around 5pm.

As one of the world’s leading fashion capitals, London has an exciting shopping scene that’s particularly well known for its uber-chic department stores. Dotted around London, the stores can be tricky to find and working out the logistics from one to another can be even trickier still. Luckily, with this private tour, you’ll have a knowledgeable private driver to give you insider tips and drive you to the shops that you simply can’t miss!

After picking you up from your hotel, your driver will chat with you about suggested shops, and then you’ll be on your way. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your day of shopping based on your preferences – let your driver know where you want to go and then sit back and enjoy the ride.

Perhaps head to Harrods in upmarket Knightsbridge. Retailing in the same location since 1849, the palatial store remains unrivaled as the must-visit shop in London. It offers both first-rate service and an extensive product range -- selling everything from haute couture to ice cream.

Fortnum & Mason is probably the best-known British food store, having operated for centuries on London’s Piccadilly. Besides being the largest quality food retailer in London, the shop has a gorgeous interior; gaze up at its glittering chandeliers as you walk along its luxuriously carpeted aisles, shopping for quintessentially English teas and picnic hampers.

Be sure to check out the shopping mecca that is Oxford Street, home to the flagship Topshop store, all the best British-brand chain shops and, of course, Selfridges – another of the world’s finest department stores, symbolized by its iconic yellow shopping bag. Nearby is Liberty, the Tudor-style building with its tantalizing window displays to tempt you inside.

After eight hours of shopping in London’s finest shops, your private driver will drop you and your shopping bags back at your hotel – the perfect ending to your perfect shopping day!

This entertaining and fun tour through central London is dedicated exclusively to Beatles-related sites – a must for Beatles fans! Enjoy a London summer evening reliving the years of Beatlemania, and see the locations that influenced the Beatles’ career as John, Paul, Ringo and George became one of the greatest bands in history.

During the tour, you will see many of their early gig and show locations, as well as the only apartment where the Beatles lived together. Visit photo locations used for album covers, including the famous Abbey Road crossing, where you can walk in the Fab Four’s footsteps. See sites where some of the band members lived, including John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s apartment, Paul McCartney’s house and Soho office, and Ringo Starr’s flat. And visit film locations for A Hard Day’s Night, Help! and Magical Mystery Tour.

With more than 35 sites associated with this legendary Liverpool group, this is the most comprehensive central London tour of historic Beatles attractions, including the site of their final live performance – the roof-top concert.

This evening tour features live commentary from your specialist Beatles guide, who will recreate the magical Beatles years with music and film footage.

Head inside Ripley’s Believe It or Not! with your entrance ticket and explore the intriguing attraction at leisure, admiring a collection of roughly 700 artifacts from around the world. Audio guides and maps are available for you to purchase at your own expense, or alternatively, just wander around the six-floor exhibition at your own pace.

The attraction was created with the aim of satisfying people’s basic curiosities through challenging and unusual exhibits – the types of things people had to see to believe. So, do just that and discover crazy artifacts like a 13-foot (4-meter) model of Tower Bridge made from matchsticks, and the Tsantsa collection – an assortment of shrunken heads from the Amazon jungle!

Amble through interactive discovery zones like the Mirror Maze. Jump, crawl and twist your way through beams of light in the Laser Race and prepare to feel dizzy as you walk through the attraction’s legendary Vortex Tunnel. Perhaps take a break in the center’s coffee bar, or browse for quirky souvenirs in the gift shop. If you visit during peak times (April to October) you can also see live performances in the foyer.

After exploring, use your ticket (given to you on entering Ripley’s Believe It or Not!) for a 2-course meal and soda inside nearby Planet Hollywood. Make your own way to the restaurant and take a seat at your table. After your meal, why not visit the restaurant’s themed rooms like the Bond Room or the trendy Cabana Room. A wide range of film memorabilia, such as a Star Wars R2D2 robot, is also on display.

You’ll be met at your hotel or other agreed meeting point and enjoy a drive by private car to Windsor, a location that has been linked to British monarchy for more than 900 years. It is also the weekend home of the Queen, who very much enjoys spending time at Windsor Castle.

On this half-day tour you’ll visit the sumptuously decorated castle and hear about its history. The royal residence houses more fine art, gold, and furnishings than is imaginable. Inside the walls you’ll also find the chapel where a number of kings and queens have been buried.

You’ll take a walk around the castle walls, see the soldiers on guard, and maybe even a royal if you’re lucky!

Following the Castle visit, you’ll take a walk around Windsor Old Town, visit the famous park, and see the Crooked House, perhaps stopping for tea, or maybe a beer at a 500-year-old pub.

The tour is leisurely paced and unhurried and included entrance tickets to Windsor Castle and Official Audio Guide for the Castle interior.

Visit the Tower of London (entry not included) to discover its history on a 2 to 3 hours private tour. See the Crown Jewels of the Royal Family, and more. See priceless treasures of the British monarchy, including the Imperial State Crown, worn by the Queen Elizabeth at each State Opening of Parliament. Marvel at the diamond of the Sovereign’s Sceptre the largest colorless cut diamond in the world.

Enjoy a visit of the White Tower, the oldest part of the Tower of London and see the fortress built by William the Conqueror between 1070 and 1100. Be amazed by diamond-encrusted weapons and suits of armour.

The Tower was once used as a zoo, you will see sculptures of exotic animals like the ones that were presented as royal gifts to be kept in the Royal Menagerie. Finally, see the permanent Tower of London exhibitions and find out the story of the Tower as a working Mint.

Behind the sprawl of modern London lies the secret history of the capital's most daring and controversial source of entertainment: the theater. During this London Theater Tour, we'll reconstruct London's historic stages, and come to understand the social and artistic forces that were born here and that still underpin entertainment in the western world. In particular, we'll explore the influence of one William Shakespeare, whose works, staged in London, continue to resonate throughout the world today.

• Explores the life and times of William Shakespeare
• Small group and private options
• London Theater Tour led by a theater historian

Shakespeare Tour

Any discussion of the English theater (or theatre, if you prefer) has to start with Shakespeare. Thus we will begin our walk on the South Bank, not far from the Globe Theatre, the modern reconstruction of the playhouse where many of Shakespeare's plays were premiered. Starting here, on the banks of the Thames, takes us back to a time when the theater was a public arena, when plays were a part of everyday life. At the same time, as we explore the surrounding area, we will discover why the theater was feared for so long that it was banished across the river, to this dangerous and dissolute area that was then well outside the city walls.

London Theater Tour

Crossing the river, we will find ourselves transported two centuries forward, to an era when two great royal theaters, Drury Lane and Covent Garden, dominated London's social life. We will explore one of these theaters, both of which have a two-hundred-year legacy, and talk about a few of the legendary performances that gripped audiences in a way that no star could match today. However, as we walk around the area and uncover its history, we will also discover how strong the prejudices were that theaterfolk had to overcome: Both of these historic theaters were situated on the edge of desperate slums, in the midst of an infamous district of market stalls and bagnios that were infiltrated nightly by the demi-monde.

Looking for other can't-miss sites in London? Try our Tower of London Tour or Westminster Abbey Tour.

Upward Mobility

The story of how the theatre turned respectable is also the story of how London changed from an anarchic free-for-all into the proud, somewhat pompous Victorian capital that we see around us today. It is also the story of Shakespeare: of how an obscure boy from the English Midlands awkwardly and haltingly became recognized as the greatest dramatist the world has ever known.

For a broader range of walks in this area take a look at all our history tours of London.

Take Aways

At the end of our time together we'll emerge with a deeper understanding of English theatre as it unfolded in London, from the time of Shakespeare to the grand performances of the Victorian Age. We should also, if fancy strikes, be done in time for a show.

FAQ

Do we go inside the Globe during this tour?

No, our walk includes a discussion of the Globe and the Swan theatre, but we don't go inside. The Globe offers group tours led by the theatre staff. However, we visit part of the Royal Opera House and Drury Lane Theatre.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent. Read more about a family experience on our walk.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

Generally, we cover about 2 miles at a gentle pace.

Meet your guide at a designated location. Visit Buckingham Palace and St James Palace from the outside whilst you are told the fascinating history of these Palaces. Also stories of Royal scandal.

Then you will visit the political and social heart of the country, with great photo opportunity of Big Ben, Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Be entertained with stories of terror, treason, Royal weddings and Winston Churchill and WWII. Walk past the home of David Cameron and the Horse Guard Parade in to Trafalgar Square home of Admiral Horatio Nelson one of Britain's greatest war leaders.

Walk the cobbled streets of Covent Garden. Stop at a traditional pub that was voted the greatest pub in the United Kingdom where you can have a traditional local beer or cider. Venture on and take in some of the incredible street entertainment and the beautiful Italian pizza the area is known for.

Your tour will end in Soho, an area renowned for its restaurants, cafe culture, entertainment, music with a few suggestions on where to eat.

Other famous London landmarks you'll see include Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.

Next, you'll jump onboard a Thames River Cruise to see all of the famous London landmarks and bridges from a different perspective. The cruise passes Shakespeare’s Globe, Cleopatra’s Needle and London Bridge before you arrive at Westminster pier to rejoin the bus and head for Buckingham Palace.

Watch the world-famous Changing of the Guard Ceremony as the soldiers, dressed in their fabulous tunics and busbies, march to military music. If the guard change is not taking place, you will stop for photos of the Horseguards.

Add one of the following attractions for a comprehensive introduction to the city of London:

Top London Attractions:
Enjoy fast, hassle-free entry to the London Eye or Tower of London. Pre-booked and pre-paid tickets ensure speedy access to London’s top attractions.

Stonehenge Shuttle:
Combine the tour with an afternoon visit to Stonehenge. After the morning tour of London, you'll be dropped off at Victoria Coach Station ready to depart on the roundtrip shuttle bus (5 hours) to Stonehenge at 12:30pm. Designed to give you a fast, hassle-free independent trip to Stonehenge, collect your entrance tickets (included in the tour price!) and free audio-guide before exploring at your own pace.

London's Kensington Palace has been a royal home for over 300 years, and parts of the palace still remain a private residence for members of the Royal Family today. Following a major renovation project, the palace now unveils many secret stories of past royal figures, painting Kensington Palace as the setting for many noteworthy events and dramas in royal history. Make your way through the spectacular King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, adorned with paintings from the Royal Collection, and stroll through the Kensington Palace Gardens at your leisure.

Explore the permanent exhibition, ‘Victoria Revealed,’ which is set within the rooms where Victoria grew up. Queen Victoria was born in the palace, and it was here that she learned she had become queen at just 18 years of age. She also held her first Privy Council meeting in Kensington Palace’s Red Saloon. Inspired by her own journals and featuring displays of personal objects, ‘Victoria Revealed’ gives an intimate account of Queen Victoria, exploring her life and reign through her own words.

Do you want to visit more Royal sites?
Upgrade to the Royal Palaces Pass to include admission to the Tower of London and Hampton Court. Your pass includes one visit to each attraction and is valid for two years. You'll have plenty of time to explore the stories and intrigues at each site at your leisure, as part of your own itinerary.

Begin our half day experience by learning about the master painters whose names fill the halls of the National Gallery. It’s a hodgepodge of eras and styles, and we’ll make sense of it for you so that you can appreciate and moreover enjoy this iconic collection. Discover the history and anecdotes behind the works of artists like Da Vinci, Velázquez, and Botticelli. The National Gallery houses paintings dating back to the 1300s all the way up through the 1900s, so there is no shortage of choice. Visit Jan van Eyck’s “The Arnolfini Portrait” or something more familiar like Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” to understand the full scope of work on display. During your private tour, your charming young guide will arm you with the essential information and history needed to appreciate the more than 2300 paintings on display at one of the world’s most visited museums.

After a break for lunch, you will then go on to explore the diverse neighborhood that is the East End. Notorious as the hunting ground of 19th century serial killer Jack the Ripper, it’s now home to London's best street art including Shepard Fairey and Banksy. The East End is a melting pot, alive with contradictions and colorful characters, and we’ll introduce you to our favorite shops and vendors at Spitalfields Market. By the end of the day you’ll understand why London attracts so many upcoming artists.

Following a 9am or 1pm pickup at your centrally located London hotel, meet your guide and take a seat in your traditional London black cab. Then, spin onward through the city to begin your tour.

Travel into the East End and retrace the footsteps of Jack the Ripper — one of London’s most infamous 19th-century killers. Along the way, learn of the unsolved murders of Annie Chapman, Catherine Eddowes, Mary Jane Kelly, Mary Ann Nichols, and Elizabeth Stride that he’s said to have committed.

During your tour, hear spooky stories from London’s dim and distant past. Visit sites of murder and mayhem, and explore the gruesome world of Sweeney Todd — the demon barber of Fleet Street. When your driving tour comes to an end, return in comfort to your London hotel.

Choose the departure time most convenient for you, and then meet your private driver-guide at the prearranged location in central London. Settle into your seat inside a Morris Minor convertible — a classic car that burst onto the British motoring scene in the late 1940s — and set off on your tour of London’s world-famous landmarks.
Sit back and soak up the buzzing atmosphere as you’re chauffeured through London’s most recognizable areas. If you’ve upgraded to include a bottle of Champagne, pop the cork and sip on a glass of bubbles as you listen to your driver-guide’s insightful commentary on the capital’s biggest attractions.
Gaze out of the window, taking in top attractions such as Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye.
Continue on to 10 Downing Street, home to Britain's Prime Minister, and see the royal sights of the Pall Mall, St James’ Palace and the Horse Guards Parade.
Then, find yourself on the bustling shopping strips of Regent Street, South Morton Street and Jermyn Street.
After roughly an hour, your tour finishes near your original start point.
Please note: Morris Minors are small in comparison to most of today’s cars, so with comfort in mind, bookings are only accepted for a maximum of three people per car.

This private tour and pilgrimage takes you to the holy village of Walsingham to visit both the Roman Catholic and Anglican shrines and other related sites. You’ll explore the abbey ruins and the village, and have time to shop for religious items.

Take a pilgrimage to the holy village of Walsingham, located in the county of Norfolk, a world away from the hustle and bustle of London. Travel by private car through the Thetford Forest on the way to Walsingham on this full-day guided tour and pilgrimage. The tour lasts around 6-7 hours including travel time.

At one time Walsingham was one of the most visited sites in Europe. The village has been considered a holy place for more than 1,000 years, dating to a time when the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared and instructed that a replica of the house of Jesus in the Holy Land be reconstructed here. Today, it is more popular than it has been in centuries.

You’ll visit the Roman Catholic shrine and adjoining chapels before exploring Walsingham village, a beautiful and quiet place that’s home to a ruined abbey, an Orthodox church, the Anglican church and shrine as well and several shops that sell mementos such as incense and prayer beads. On this very leisurely and relaxed day, the tour ends when you’re happy that you’ve seen what you wanted to see, given the time available.

Walsingham is 2.5 hour drive from the edge of London and so to maximise the day and shorten the travel time, this tour departs from Watford Station which by tube is only 25 minutes from central London.

Enjoy breathtaking views of London and look up to 20 miles (32 kilometers) into the distance with this entry ticket to the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the UK's tallest sculpture. Towering 374 feet (114 meters) above East London, it offers panoramic vistas of the London skyline, both from the viewing galleries and distorted in mirrors.

Make your own way to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, 15 minutes walk from Stratford station, and the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the dramatic looping sculpture created by Sir Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond.

After pausing to admire the structure, whizz up 263 feet (80 meters) at ear-popping speeds in the fast lifts to the viewing galleries. Here you can enjoy stunning views of London's skyline: look out for The Shard, The Gherkin, St. Paul's Cathedral, Wembley Stadium, the O2 Arena, and Canary Wharf.

Learn the story of the ArcelorMittal Orbit and London's Olympic Park from interactive screens, which can also help you identify key elements of the cityscape you're looking at. Admire the spectacular mirrors, created by Sir Anish Kapoor, which play with perspective and spin the horizon on its head.

Finally, to fully experience the changing perspectives from every angle, descend the 455-step staircase that spirals around the central column. (You are, of course, free to descend in the lifts.) Once you're done, feel free to explore the Olympic Park at leisure.

Please note: entrance does not include tickets for the slide.

It's no surprise that Notting Hill is featured so prominently in the movies. The cobblestone streets and Victorian homes evoke a particular image that is distinctly London. Meanwhile, Notting Hill's Portobello Market is among London's best-known, yet it can be difficult to navigate—even for locals. This Notting Hill Tour will showcase some of the area's highlights, including cute cafes, well-stocked spice markets, bountiful produce, ample antiques, and some of the city's best pubs, while also revealing the history of the famed locale with a local social historian.

• Notting HIll Tour reveals the distinct feel of this quintessential London neighborhood.
• Led by a social historian and true Londoner.
• Shopping opportunities abound in Portobello Market.

Notting Hill Tour

Getting an early start, we may fuel up with a delicious breakfast while learning the history of the market and area at The Lazy Daisy Café, or get started right away down Portobello Road. This area, originally known as Green's Lane or Turnpike Lane, was turned into a farm in 1740, being named after Puerto Bello in the Caribbean in memory of Admiral Vernon, who captured the town in 1739.

In the Market

We will peruse some of the antique stalls on our way to the main food section of the market. Along the way, we will stop at some of the delightful delicatessens and highlight other specialty shops, including The Spice Shop and Books for Cooks, the ultimate cookbook haven. Winding back to Notting Hill Gate, we will make a brief stop at the Notting Hill Farmers' Market, which is often overlooked in favor of its more famous cousin despite its (arguably) superior culinary finds. Serving as one of the largest farmers' markets in London, you'll have your pick of some of the city's best produce.

Looking to explore another characteristic London neighborhood? See the hip part of town on our London East End Tour. Want to see more markets? Try our Borough Market Tour.

Take Aways

From there, we will escape the frenzy in one of two ways: either in one of the quieter streets of Notting Hill, packed with beautiful flower-covered pubs (we like the The Churchill Arms), or by heading into Kensington Gardens, perfect for a cup of tea at The Orangery at Kensington Palace. Looking back on our tour, we'll come away with a rich history of this distinct neighborhood—and likely a few keepsakes, as well.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

Generally speaking, the walk begins near Notting Hill Gate. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24/7 phone number. The walk typically ends at The Churchill Arms, or Kensington Gardens.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is there time for shopping?

This is more of a neighborhood tour, than a shopping tour. Feel free to make a few purchases if something catches your eye, but if you’re interested in browsing, we suggest exploring Portobello Market on your own after the tour. The market is open 09:00 – 19:00 Friday and Saturday.

Meet your private guide in central Brixton in the afternoon, then head through into the Victorian-era market to begin your tour. Here, browse vintage stores, independent boutiques, and characterful cafes, and soak up the atmosphere in this colorful corner of London.

Explore Brixton’s quirky backstreets with your private guide and get a feel for the community’s unique character. As you explore, admire stylish street art — widely considered among the best in London — and discover some of the pioneering galleries and businesses for which Brixton is becoming famous.

Afterward, perhaps stop for a drink in one of Brixton’s stylish bars, cocktail clubs, microbreweries, or speakeasies (own expense) to conclude your tour in style.

Meet your expert guide and set off to the historic city of Cambridge, just over an hour away from London and the hometown of Pink Floyd. From the comfort of your luxury minivan, see the early homes of band members David Gilmour, Roger Waters and Syd Barrett before they ‘made it big’ in London. Pass numerous gig sites while your guide gives you the lowdown on the cutting-edge band’s early days.

On a walking tour of Cambridge, stroll along the city’s cobbled streets, admiring the elegantly traditional architecture around the city center. Your guide will talk about the character of this quintessentially British city, renowned for its prestigious university and river punting.

Stop outside Cambridge University, and explore inside at your own expense if you wish. Alternatively, explore more of the city on your own, perhaps grabbing lunch at one of the local restaurants (own expense).

Travel back to London for the afternoon to see some more Pink Floyd sites, as well as a few other pop culture locations. Head straight to colorful Notting Hill , a lively corner of west London that epitomizes everything cool about the capital, with bohemian shops, expensive homes and fashionable markets. See the Tabernacle building where Pink Floyd played gigs in the 1990s, and see sights from Notting Hill, the hit movie starring Hugh Grant.

Venture northeast to Islington, one of London’s trendiest neighborhoods, to see Pink Floyd’s Britannia Row studios, and then head west to Abbey Rad to stop outside the Beatles’ former recording studios. Have a go at re-creating their famous Abbey Road album cover by walking across the street's zebra crossing.

The last site of your day is 18th-century Alexandra Palace, another gig site of Pink Floyd, affectionately known to locals as ‘Ally Pally.’ Built on top of a hill in Alexandra Park, the palace boasts the some of the best city views that only an insider would know! Walk around the park and enjoy the spectacular views before returning to central London.

Meet your guide at the prestigious All England Club in Wimbledon, and then set off on your behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic tennis venue to learn about the home of The Championships and see facilities used during London 2012.

Stroll around Centre Court and No 1 Court to see where the likes of Roger Federer, Pete Sampras and Andy Murray battled out victories, and admire the old pony-drawn roller that once kept the grass courts in prime condition. Wander around the picnic spots where summertime crowds gather to eat strawberries and cream, and visit Aorangi Terrace, the hill better known by its nicknames: Henman Hill or Murray Mound. Pose for photos in the press interview room and visit Millennium Building to see the private players’ facilities.

Your tour finishes outside Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, so head inside with your entrance ticket and explore the exhibition space independently. Showcasing the history of tennis at Wimbledon, the museum also celebrates the traditions, triumphs and emotions of the game through collections of artifacts, film footage and interactive displays.

An unsurpassed collection of tennis memorabilia dating back to 1555 is spread around the museum, offering a insight into the early days of tennis. Pass through the Championships Trophies room to see the spoils of past victories, and visit John McEnroe’s former changing room for an interactive experience with a hologram of the famous US tennis player.

Rest your legs by taking a break in the 3D cinema and watch The Walk of Champions, a short film about the people who work at Wimbledon and the behind-the-scenes preparation that goes into hosting the Championships. See footage of the 2013 British Wimbledon Champion Andy Murray, and hear about the excitement that surrounds the finals. After watching the film, continue through the gallery and stroll around CentreCourt360 for panoramic views of the Centre Court.

How long you spend inside the museum is up to you, but many visitors find an hour to be sufficient. If you are hungry or simply want a break from exploring the exhibits, visit the on-site cafe. Food and drinks are at your own expense.

Discover one of England’s most impressive Norman castles on a full-day private tour of Warwick. Looming over the picturesque county town in the Heart of England, Warwick Castle is still occupied today, but there are plenty of areas accessible for public adventures.

Your driver will pick you up from Watford Junction Train Station in North London (or in central London subject to a surcharge), then drive towards the Castle, situated on a bend of the River Avon.

Upon arrival, marvel at how well preserved the castle is. Originally built of motte-and-bailey, the stone castle that replaced the original was constructed from stone. Admire this fine example of 14th-century military architecture as you climb the towers, explore the battlements, and see the dungeons.

Learn about the important role it played in English history, seek out the resident birds of prey, and catch a medieval re-enactment if you’re lucky.

South West England is rich in history and natural beauty. From the mysterious stones of Avebury and Stonehenge, to the Uffington White Horse, Bath, and the Salisbury Cathedral, there is a wealth of astonishing sites to take in. Our full-day Stonehenge Tour including Bath and Salisbury, led by a local historian and designed as a day trip from London, offers a glimpse of a deeply distinct part of England. Together, we'll explore the history, mystery, and profound beauty of this region.

• Visit Stonehenge, Bath, and Salisbury
• Small groups—max 6 people
• Stonehenge Tour customizable to suit your interests

Stonehenge Tour

Arriving by train from London, our exploration of the South West will begin from Salisbury station. Here we will meet our docent and driver and proceed to Stonehenge, just in time for its opening to the public, in order to beat the crowds and enjoy the view of the stones in tranquility. In the company of our expert, we will engage in the ongoing discussion regarding the origin and significance of the stones, while learning to distinguish historical facts from well established traditions. We will also have time to walk in the archaeological park and take in the ethereal magic of the site.

In the English Countryside

From here, we'll depart for our next stop, which depending on the day and the clients preference may be Bath (where we also have a standalone Bath Tour) or Salisbury Cathedral, but not before stopping in a local country pub for lunch. We may taste some of the local ales and indulge in traditional dishes such as game pies or a simple ploughman's lunch. After lunch, we'll proceed to the second part of our exploration.

Looking for another day trip from London? Try our Cambridge Tour.

Bath and Salisbury

If heading to Bath, we'll stroll through the Georgian streets while learning about the city's Roman origins and its later connections to the dandies and fashionables of London. Our docent will explain the role of the Roman Baths and how they are still today a fundamental fixture of the town. If we feel inclined, we may proceed inside and visit the Baths before taking the train back to London at the end of the day.

In Salisbury, our visit will focus on the Cathedral, home of the Magna Carta and exquisite example of Early English architecture. We will talk about the Cathedral's musical history and tradition dating back to the foundation of the church in 1258, as well as its role in innovation (the Salisbury Cathedral was the first English cathedral to recruit girl choristers in 1991). Our discussion will cover the once thriving town of Old Sarum and Salisbury's original cathedral, now only visible in its outline. We'll learn how many of its stones were re-used in the construction of the new building and why both city and cathedral moved from their original location to today's one.

Take Aways

As our day together comes to a close, we will have uncovered what makes South West England such a rich destination to visit: lesser-known charms, incredible landscapes, beautiful architecture, and the memorable UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Stonehenge and Avebury. At the end of the day, we'll return to London on one of the many direct trains that run between the two locations.

Booking Instructions

Please note: You will meet your docent and driver in Salisbury (we will provide detailed instructions). In general, the full-day excursion has you back in London by 8:00 pm. If you are staying in Bath, Salisbury or anywhere outside of London, please let us know and we can assist you with transport information. Note that we can also conduct a two-day extended excursion (private).

You will be responsible for purchasing train tickets at the station. Included in your confirmation will be details regarding which trains to take and how to book. If you prefer to travel by car from London, we can arrange for a full day car service. Please leave a note to this effect in your booking.

FAQs

Can I see the inside of Stonehenge? 
Although not possible during normal opening hours, you may visit the inside of Stonehenge by pre-booking with Stonehenge Circle Access. Visits take place in the early morning or late evening only and last for one hour, with a maximum of 26 participants on each visit. Stonehenge Circle Access should be booked well in advance of when you plan to visit. Those interested in booking must complete an Application Form. The cost of the ticket for accessing the stones is about 38GBP per person. Depending on the time of the year, early morning visits take place at 6:30-7:30 or 8 AM. Please include a note in your booking if you are interested in this option.