In a world where pop-culture and pavements collide, a group of strangers will embark on a journey they will never forget. Against all odds, a hero will guide you to where Bridget Jones famously kissed the love of her life. Through the dark streets you will spy the seedy spots where Alfie picked up his ‘birds’ – and make it through to their ultimate destination- Gotham City.

See the sites made popular by cinematic icons like 'James Bond' and 'Harry Potter', as well as the location for film history’s most famous zombie attacks.

Come on a 2-hour journey through the dark, dirty and murderous streets of London’s Dickensian past. Enter the secret world of violence, prostitution and gin ruled over by the menace of Jack the Ripper.

See the sites where Jack performed his grisly murders and walk the same streets as his unfortunate victims. Hear about the salacious side of Victorian life and learn the facts about slums and inner city poverty in the 1880’s. It’s a chance to finally separate fact from fiction, myth from reality and get to know exactly what Jack did to those tragic girls. You’ll get to play detective too when you’re given a sinister profile of some of the most likely suspects.

Meet your guide in central London and begin your 2-hour walking tour, taking your nighttime stroll between the city's skyscrapers and trendy restaurants. It won't be difficult to imagine London's haunted past as you sneak through these dark streets, and listen to the spookiest stories of the ghouls, ghosts, and specters that creep the capital's back alleys after dusk. Daring to walk in their mysterious footsteps, you'll hear nearly unspeakable tales of blood-curdling crime, midnight monsters, and devilish demons.

Hunt for the entryway to the Leaky Cauldron, visit the real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley, and jump like a chocolate frog into a side of London that most muggles (non-wizarding or non-magical people) don't know about. Whether you’re a wizard, witch, or squib (aka wizard-born), you’ll be certain to see London at its most magical during this 2.5-hour walking tour of filming sites for the famous Harry Potter series.

Grab your robes, don your house colors, and meet your guide in central London (invisibility cloaks, time turners, and Hippogriffs are strictly forbidden!). Relive the thrill of Harry Potter’s broom ride along the River Thames and see if you can catch the Knight Bus. Learn whether you're a sneaky Slytherin or a gallant Gryffindor, before you look out for the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9 3/4.

Your guide accompanies you on a ride on the London Underground from Westminster to King's Cross (your ticket is not included), before your tour ends.

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.

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.

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.

Start your guided tour of Greenwich at the Sir Walter Raleigh statue, which is located just outside the northern entrance to the Greenwich Tourism Information Centre. 

Visit the Cutty Sark, a beautiful ship that was fully restored and opened to the public in 2012, following a £50 Million restoration. Continue your tour with a visit to St. Alfege's Church, designed by the renowned architect Nicholas Hawksmoor. There has been a church located on this site for a thousand years.

Catch views of the River Thames and enjoy a traditional lunch in a riverside pub. Pub favorites such as fish and chips are on the menu, along with complimentary tea, coffee, or soda. After lunch, explore the Greenwich Observatory and the prime meridian. Visit the prime meridian and head into the historic Flamsteed House, designed by the great Sir Christopher Wren.

Continue your tour to the National Maritime Museum,the largest of its type in the world. Visit the Old Royal Naval College and its magnificent Painted Hall. Conclude your tour at the Greenwich Market, filled with local artisans and international food stands.

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!

This tour is for lovers of Shakespeare including those who might have seen the film 'Shakespeare in Love' starring Gwenyth Paltrow. Your very own tour guide will walk you through the lanes of South Bank, which was in the time of Shakespeare a little bit like England's very own Las Vegas. It was the entertainment district with many pubs, brothels, theatres and churches standing next to each other!

You will get to see the actual site of the original Globe Theatre that opened in 1599 and in which Shakespeare himself had a share.
You will see where the Rose Theatre once stood, the Globe's competitor whose director was Ben Jonson - friend and colleague of Shakespeare's.

Venues on the tour include the ruins of Winchester Palace, the Anchor Pub as well as the magnificent Southwark Cathedral were the Bard worshiped and where his younger brother Edmond is buried. The Shakespeare stained glass window is beautiful. There is much to see on this guided walking tour that relate directly or indirectly to Shakespeare such as the Ferryman's Seat and an exact model of the Golden Hind, Sir Francis Drake's little ship that circumnavigated the globe. The official in-house Globe Theatre tour is included in the tour and gives you an up-close and personal look at how Shakespeare's Globe must have been like. This was the dream fulfilled of American actor/producer Sam Wanamaker.

Meet at the front entrance to the Royal Courts of Justice on the Strand. The Courts are located in a huge Victorian building full of legal history. Tour guests are normally shown into an actual ongoing court case by your guide. After a brief tour of the building, the tour then proceeds to the Rolls Building which is where eg. Russian oligarchs come to settle their disputes seeking British justice. Your guide is a member and so takes you into the British Law Society housed in splendid surroundings. It is here that we take our tea/coffee break about half way through the tour.

After the break, we make time for visits to the Inns of Court and gardens, a shop where the legal profession purchase their wigs and then the tour will go past the Old Bailey. Much to see and experience of a legal nature and your lawyer guide is able to answer all legal queries.

The Tour starts on Liverpool Street side of Liverpool Street Station. During the next 2 hours you'll learn about some of the darker and murkier history of London, things you won't hear about during your stereotypical tour of London.

You'll learn about the area in Roman times through to Victorian times and beyond and discover stories about the rich history of immigration into the area, including the modern day immigrants to the area (the Hipsters!). The our will also cover iconic characters of the area including Jack the Ripper, the Kray twins, the Elephant Man and many, many more.

The second half of the tour focuses more on the culture of street art in the area and guests will get the opportunity to view works by famous artists such as BANKSY, C215, Invader and Shepherd Fairy. The tour will finish on Brick Lane, infamous for it's 50-odd curry houses (the largest number of Indian restaurants outside of the Indian sub-continent!). We are also very happy to give you recommendations of where you should go for lunch after the conclusion of the tour.

Meet your guide near Mornington Crescent tube station in the afternoon, then head into Camden to start your tour. Along the way, gain insight into popular musicians and bands such as Amy Winehouse, Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, and The Sex Pistols, who elevated Camden Town to the world capital of rock’n’roll.

Explore bustling street markets where London traders sell everything from clothes and food to jewelry, music, souvenirs, and more. Browse stylish boutiques and busy cafes, and soak up the atmosphere in this vibrant part of north London.

Listen as talented street musicians bring some of the area’s best-loved songs to life, then finish your tour in central Camden.

Meet your guide in the afternoon at Tottenham Court Road tube station, then head through the bustling streets of Soho to start your 2-hour walking tour. With many famous landmarks and a wonderfully quirky history, Soho is widely considered among the most colorful corners of the UK capital.

During your tour, take in top local sites of interest including Soho Square and the House of St. Barnabas — a setting in Charles Dickens' classic novel A Tale of Two Cities. Discover historic private members’ clubs, and famous pubs and cafes once frequented by stars of stage and screen such as Casanova, Jimi Hendrix, and Oscar Wilde.

Stroll down fashionable Carnaby Street and listen as your guide sheds light on the district’s colourful past. Pass through bustling Chinatown to the old French quarter and visit Shaftesbury Avenue — the heart of London's famous West End.

See the entrance to the old Marquee Club — where bands like the Who, Pink Floyd, and the Rolling Stones honed their craft — then finish your tour in the heart of Soho.

Meet your guide outside Westminster underground station to start your 2-hour walking tour. Along the tour you will see: The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, Churchill's War Rooms, Parliament Square and Trafalgar Square. You will see the National Gallery, St Paul's Cathedral, the Sherlock Holmes pub and more.

Your tour guide will provide a pithy history of London and walk you through The Mall, St James's Park, and Admiralty Arch, to see Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the royal family, and other aristocratic addresses including St James's Palace, Lancaster House and Clarence House. The tour ends on the Golden Jubilee Bridge, with a panoramic view of London, with views of the National Theatre, the 3500 year old Cleopatra’s Needle, and the quirky new skyscrapers such as the ‘Shard’ and ‘Gherkin’ that have quickly become a symbols of the city.

Hear the history, and see the all of London’s famous sights from Westminster Abbey to London Bridge with a private, local guide. A flexible start time is available, along with a hotel pick up. If there are specific places of interest you would like to see, such as a location from a favourite London set movie, this can be incorporated into your walk (let us know in advance to be extra sure your request can be accommodated).

Along the tour you will see: The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, Churchill's War Rooms, Parliament Square and Trafalgar Square. You will see the National Gallery, the Sherlock Holmes pub and more.
 

Your tour guide will provide a pithy history of London and walk you through The Mall, St James's Park, and Admiralty Arch, to see Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the royal family, and other aristocratic addresses including St James's Palace, Lancaster House and Clarence House. The walk crosses the Golden Jubilee Bridge, with a panoramic view of London, with views of the National Theatre, the 3500 year old Cleopatra’s Needle, and the quirky new skyscrapers such as the ‘Shard’ and ‘Gherkin’ that have quickly become a symbols of the city.

The walk continues along the South Bank, passing St Paul's Cathedral, the Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe theatre and Southwark Cathedral, to Borough Market and London Bridge. From here there are views of the Tower of London, City Hall and Tower Bridge. London in half a day!

Meet your guide in the afternoon in Camden, north London, then head up the bustling high street to begin your walking tour. Along the way, pass the bold boutiques and busy stalls for which Camden is famous, and soak up the atmosphere in this unique corner of London.

Explore the Stables — Camden’s vibrant market — where food-sellers and noisy traders vie for your attention. Along the way, learn of famous British bands such as Pink Floyd and Blur who got their lucky break in the area.

Head onward into Primrose Hill and discover a far more genteel side of historic London. Admire sweeping views over Regent’s Canal, and hear of the many writers — including Charles Dickens, William Blake, Silvia Plath and WB Yeats — who found inspiration here.

Stroll through Regent's Park — considered by many to be the prettiest park in London — and enjoy sweeping views over the capital from your vantage point on the hilltop. Then, return to your starting point in Camden to conclude your tour.

Meet your guide near Hampstead tube station in the early afternoon, then set off through the cobbled streets to begin your walking tour. Widely considered among the UK capital’s prettiest districts, Hampstead boasts traditional pubs, quaint boutiques, and plenty of London character.

On your 2-hour tour, admire centuries-old Georgian homes once lived in by great writers, poets, and painters such as H.G. Wells, John Keats, Robert Louis Stevenson, George du Maurier, John Constable, John Galsworthy, D.H. Lawrence, and Katherine Mansfield.

Discover historic churches, pass pubs dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, and see the house where the most famous playwright of his day — Oscar Wilde — spent much of his time. As you explore, gain insight into the area’s history and see what sets Hampstead apart from other corners of the capital.

Head up to Hampstead Heath — an area of rolling woodlands and meadows made famous by the art of John Constable — and admire sweeping views over the capital’s skyline from your vantage point on the hillside.

After around two hours exploring the streets and parks of Hampstead, return to central Hampstead to conclude your tour.

Meet your guide at Highgate tube station in the afternoon, then set off through the pretty streets to begin your 2-hour walking tour. Widely considered among the most desirable corners of north London, Highgate is home to Georgian houses, cobbled streets, and centuries of rich history.

On your tour, admire traditional townhouses once resided in by luminaries such as A E Housman, Charles Dickens, J B Priestley, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Yehudi Menuhin.

Discover historic pubs dating back to centuries passed — when bold highwaymen held up luxury carriages on dark nights — and hear of the famous names like Lord Byron, and William Hogarth who wiled away the hours drinking in them.

Admire top local landmarks including Lauderdale House and enjoy sweeping views from the beautiful Waterlow Park. Then, pass through Highgate Cemetery — where actors, politicians, spies and writers ranging from Karl Marx to Malcolm McLaren have found their resting place.

Meet your guide outside Covent Garden tube station in the afternoon to begin your 2-hour walking tour. With bold, stone colonnades and cobbled courtyards where skilled street performers attract the crowds, Covent Garden is widely considered among London’s top tourist attractions.

During your tour, take in top sites of interest including Bow Street Police Station, the centuries-old Covent Garden Piazza, the Garrick Club, Jubilee Market, St. Paul's Church, and the Theatre Royal — London's oldest theatre.

Stroll along Neal Street and past the Royal Opera House to traditional British pubs like the historic Lamb and Flag. Along the way, explore hidden backstreets where the likes of Charles Dickens and Jane Austen found inspiration for their books.

After two hours exploring the streets and landmarks around Covent Garden, your tour will come to an end in central London.

Meet your guide in the afternoon outside Baker Street tube station, then head through the streets of Marylebone to begin your 2-hour walking tour.

Explore Baker Street — home to the Sherlock Holmes Museum — and hear all about the life and times of one of London’s most famous fictional detectives. During your tour, take in top attractions around Marylebone including the Beatles shop, the Royal Academy of Music, and the medical offices of Sherlock Holmes' author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Admire genteel Georgian architecture alongside classically designed villas and terraces around Regent's Park, Harley Street, and Wimpole Street, and gain insight into London’s diverse architectural styles. Along the way, listen as your guide sheds light on famous names such as Charles Dickens who have lived and worked in the city down the centuries.

After two hours exploring the streets and parks of Marylebone and Baker Street, your tour will come to an end near central London.

Meet your guide outside Tottenham Court Road tube station to start your 2-hour walking tour. Along the tour you will visit the area where Charles Dickens lived and set some of his key works; and Gower Street, past the address where the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, one of Britain's most famous art movements, began; and the home of Lady Ottoline Morrell, patron and literary hostess of many a famous literary gathering.

You will make your way through Russell Square and see the original offices of the publisher, Faber and Faber, where poet TS Eliot worked (and lived, a lot of the time, due to a difficult marriage), and through to Woburn Square, Gordon Square and Tavistock Square, where key members of ‘The Bloomsbury Group’ lived and worked (not surprising really that the recent BBC dramatization about the group was called ‘Life in Squares’) to discuss and see the homes of many famous writers and artists, including Virginia Woolf, her sister Vanessa Bell, Roger Fry, E.M. Forster, Duncan Grant, Lytton Strachey and more.

You will see Bedford Square, London’s most unspoiled Georgian square, where you will see the homes of key members of the suffragette movement, and the location of the first college for women in the United Kingdom. You will see the imposing Senate House, where George Orwell worked and was inspired to create 'The Ministry of Truth' in his classic novel, ‘1984’.

Chelsea is a tale of two cities, the fashion conscious present (on display along the King’s road, the main artery that runs through Chelsea) and its village-esque past. Your guide will take you down side streets that show off a variety of centuries old architecture. You'll see important locations where James Bond fans come to pay homage, the location where Charles Dickens was married and the historical Chelsea Old Church. 

Meet your guide at Sloane Square tube station to begin your 2-hour walking tour. You will make your way along King's road, which was once a private royal road allegedly created so the King could avoid traffic on his way to see his mistress. This street became the center of swinging London in the sixties, and is now a fashionable, vibrant area home to the Royal Court Theatre and St Luke's Church, where Charles Dickens was married. 

Your guide will show you the pleasant side streets that show off a variety of centuries old architecture, and homes once frequented by the likes of Oscar Wilde, Mark Twain, and AA Milne, author of much the loved children’s story Winnie-the-Pooh. You'll see where Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond, lived and wrote Bond’s first adventure Casino Royale, and James Bond's London address, as well as where other great spy novelist John le Carré set his stories. You will see the historical Chelsea Old Church and Chelsea Embankment, and Cheyne Walk, famous for its connection to personalities ranging from the Rolling Stones to suffragette Sylvia Pankhurst. 

Meet your guide in central London as darkness descends across the city, then step through the shadows to begin your ghostly walking tour. As you explore, keep your eyes open for sightings of the undead!

During your fun yet frightening haunted pub tour, take in sites of interest such as Sweeney Todd’s barber shop, the tavern where Dr. Johnson worked on his dictionary, and the morbid interior of a Victorian prison. Stop off along the way in pubs where spirits are said to roam, and perhaps calm your nerves with a stiff drink (own expense).

Hear hair-raising stories of notorious hauntings and hangings gone wrong. Listen to spine-tingling tales of mean murderers, death, and debauchery, and learn of some of London’s most notorious grave-robbers and criminals.

After two hours exploring the taverns of London, your ghost tour will come to an end in the center of the city.

Meet your ghostly guide near London Bridge in central London as darkness descends over the city, then head along the medieval streets to start your tour. Once known as the ‘land of lawlessness’, London Bridge has been home over the years to some of the capital’s most sinister criminals.

During your tour, explore through central London and Southwark to the banks of the Thames River — widely considered the most haunted area in all of London — and hear spine-tingling tales from centuries passed. Visit a 16th-century pub and hear about the canine ghost whose soul refuses to rest!

Look out for the ghost of Miss Murray haunting her favorite pub, beware of body snatchers lurking in hidden lanes, and listen out for the cries of ladies of the night buried in a mass vault beneath the city streets. Then, finish your ghostly walking tour in central London.

Start your tour in Greenwich — near the bank of the famous Thames River — as darkness falls, then step through the UNESCO World Heritage–listed streets as your guide shares hair-raising stories of restless spirits and scary specters.

Learn the curse of the 19th-century tea clipper Cutty Sark — the historic sailing ship in dry-dock in Royal Maritime Greenwich — and hear of the poor, unfortunate souls who lost their lives sailing to China and Australia in years gone by.

Illuminated by the street lights, delve into Greenwich Park — widely considered the grandest of London’s Royal Parks — and hear chilling tales of the many kings and queens whose spirits are said to walk the grounds.

Follow your guide along the Greenwich foot tunnel and hold your nerve in case of visitations from beyond the grave! Visit the 19th-centruy Trafalgar Tavern — a local inn once frequented by Charles Dickens — and perhaps enjoy a refreshing pint of English beer (own expense). Then, finish your ghostly walking tour in central Greenwich.

Be transported to a darker and much more mysterious time in the 19th century when Jack the Ripper was lurking the streets. Explore many of the locations where these heinous acts took place and enjoy London's only Jack the Ripper Ghost Tour with your very own private tour.

This is a private tour for groups of 1 to 15 guests.

Departs Outside 18th Century Pub Dirty Dicks, Opposite Liverpool Street Station

Join us on London's only Jack the Ripper Ghost Tour with your very own private tour. Be transported back to the 19th century when London was awarded the Safest Capital City in the World before the autumn of terror struck.

Discover the infamous Whitechapel Files, "Bedlam" Lunatic Asylum, the Inspiration for Charles Dicken's Great Expectations,
haunted train stations and the many ghosts that linger. Explore the Ripper suspects including Authors, Artists, Royalty, Butchers, Barbers, Surgeons and Midwives.

Includes a stop at a historic Ripper Pub still very much haunted by its past.

Explore the streets of London on this 2-hour paranormal walking tour. Set out to investigate London’s lost souls on a guided stroll through the city in search of poltergeists and supernatural encounters. Use Ouija boards, K2 meters, and dowsing rods to tap into psychic energies and attempt to communicate with ghosts, ghouls, and spirits. Plus, visit a traditional London gin palace and see abandoned cells that once housed some of the world’s worst criminals.

Meet your guide and group of fellow participants in Farringdon, central London, for an evening walk through the city’s ghoulish and ghastly history.

Hear tales of the mounds of bodies laying in rest below London streets, visit the city’s largest execution site, and listen as your guide regales you with spine-tingling tales, including that of the infamous Scratching Fanny of Cock Lane. Learn about the grisly end of William Wallace and see the abandoned jail cell that once housed the world’s worst serial killer.

At each stop your guide will attempt to make contact with ghosts and spirits on “the other side” using Ouija boards, K2 meters, and dowsing roads.

You’ll also visit a traditional London Gin Palace — home to an entirely different kind of spirit.

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.

Oliver Twist has run away from his apprenticeship and is heading to London. He has been on the road for seven days and seven nights. He is cold, tired and hungry. That is when he meets a boy of a similar age, who's a little scruffier than him and a a little shorter but with an air of confidence of that of an adult. This boy is Jack Dawkins, also known as the Artful Dodger. He offers to introduce Oliver to a gentleman who can provide both food and lodgings and not want any rent. And so Oliver Twist follows the Artful Dodger into Victorian London to meet Fagin and his band of thieves and that's where our walk begins!

This walk covers many major themes of Victorian London; transport, child labour, workhouses, entertainment, celebrities of the day, justice system, an underworld of crime, London's first ever suburb, the age of improvement and the industrial revolution using the works of Charles Dickens making it come alive.

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 bloody past of the City of London will be explored during this 90-minute walking tour, departing from St. Paul's Underground Station. This private tour begins at the time of your preference, between 8am and 8pm. Beginning with the Black Death in 1348, this tour will explore fascinating moments in the city's history from the Great Fire of London to the Blitz. 

Led by a professional guide, this tour will include stories behind famous names from history including Bloody Mary and Henry VIII. Many of London's famous landmarks will be seen, including St. Paul's Cathedral, Greyfriars Church, St. Sepulchre church, and St. Bartholomew's Henry VIII gate. A moderate amount of walking is required.

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.

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. Our 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. Starting at the Festival of London's centerpiece, the Southbank Centre, hunt to catch water and psychic Pokemon before moving through Whitehall in the hunt for Poison / Flying Pokemon which have been known to hide there.

Hunt for Pokemon among the real pelicans and squirrels grass, bug and water types lurk of St James's park what shall 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.

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.

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.

Learn about the most exciting of industries and its flagship shows on a 2-hour walking tour around the West End. Hear songs performed from some of the greatest works of all time, use this rare opportunity to share your vocal talents.

You can expect your knowledgeable guide to inform you all about the renowned performers of musical theatre, both old and new. Hear more of those we know and love, from Irving Berlin to Andrew Lloyd Webber. As you walk through the West End hear about the composers and performers thoughts about the shows they wrote and performed.
This tour has been carefully tailored to give a balance of entertainment based performance and historical fact. You will gain in-depth insights into London's famous West End theatres. There will be a short break half way round at a family friendly West End pub, for a quick drink (own expense).

This product is the perfect gift for any lover of the West End and a great night out for families. Leave your Cats at home and join us for a Wicked walking tour guaranteed to make anybody Less Miserable!

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!

As we walk up Exhibition Road to the Albert Memorial we hear about the huge legacy of another royal consort Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, who died in 1861. Then we walk into beautiful Kensington Gardens to see the Princess Diana Memorial fountain and then the beautiful landscaping done in the early 18th century for Queen Caroline, wife of King George II.Now we walk over to Kensington Palace to view its various wings and to identify the sections where three of the Queens’ cousins live and where Princess Diana lived with Prince Charles, later on her own, and also where the Queen’s sister Princess Margaret lived until her death in 2002. We’ll see the gates and the avenue where thousands of bouquets of flowers were left in Princess Diana’s memory after her untimely death in 1997. Then we’ll head to Kensington to the Church of St. Mary, where Princess Di regularly attended services. At the heart of royal London we see St. James’s Palace built in 1530 for King Henry VIII, where Princes Charles lived after he separated from Princess Di. In 1997 Princess Di’s coffin was lying in state in the Chapel Royal of St. James’s Palace before her funeral at Westminster Abbey. This is why Prince William later decided to have his first child, Prince George, baptized in the very same chapel. Today Princess Di’s nieces, the Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice live in St. James. Next door we see Clarence House, where Princess Di spent time with the late Queen Mother before she was married to Prince Charles and where he now lives with his second wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. We now follow the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial walk to Buckingham Palace where we conclude our tour.

On this tour your guide leads you through the beautiful park-lands, fountains and waterways designed by renowned landscape architects and you will explore the trail of art sculptures commissioned by local and International artists. See some of the iconic venues such as the London Aquatics Center, the Copper Box Arena, the Lee Valley Velopark and hear about the newly reopened London Olympic stadium. Our tour will take you through this beautiful space and once again bring to life the excitement of the games, the athletes, the medals and the whole Olympic story, together with the story of how one of the most impoverished and deprived areas of London was transformed into this now trendy and fashionable district and shopping center that surrounds the park. The walking tour lasts approx. 2 hrs and covers 2 miles. The tour finishes at the Arcelor Mittal Orbit, a massive structure that includes the world’s largest and longest tunnel slide!

This tour gives you a unique insight into life in London during the two World Wars. You will learn the effect of war on London as well as the effects of air raids and bombing and how Londoners survived, often spending days living in the underground stations and how families were torn apart by war.

Life in London continued despite this with many American, Australian, Canadian, New Zealandian and other Commonwealth troops stationed here. Romance bloomed despite war and many thousands of British girls found husbands among the visiting troops.

You’ll learn about the many songs that were made popular at the time have passed into British culture and still evoking those times.

This walking tour takes in the many memorials to both wars, you will learn of the role of the Royal Family in those hard times, and of course war heroes like Sir Winston Churchill. You’ll be taken past Churchill’s War Rooms, the old War Office, Downing Street and Parliament Square among many other famous sites.

Meet your guide in the evening or late morning and stroll through the winding streets and alleyways of historic Soho. Gain some insight into the famous district’s grizzly past. With chilling tales of 18 London murderers across 21 different Soho sites, listen closely as the death toll rises.

During your tour, learn of gruesome killers including Dennis Nilsen, William Crees and the notorious Soho Strangler. Hear the strange defense of Peter Keim, unravel the mystery of the Denmark Street fire and learn about William Calcraft, Britain's notoriously competent hangman.

Listen as your guide sheds light on the deadly actions of Soho's WWII slasher, the Blackout Ripper, and of course learn the truth about Jack the Ripper, widely considered to be London’s most infamous killer.

Hop aboard your air-conditioned coach or train at King’s Cross station in central London in the morning, then take your seat for the onward journey through the English countryside to Cambridge. Home to one of the oldest universities in the world, Cambridge boasts a colorful history dating back over 800 years.

On arrival, follow your guide on a 1-hour walking tour and discover top attractions such as the Bridge of Sighs, Queen’s College, and Trinity College. Along the way, admire the medieval churches, museums, and parks for which Cambridge is famous and gain insight into Cambridge’s rich heritage.

When your walking tour comes to an end, enjoy four hours’ free time to explore further at your leisure. Perhaps pop in to The Eagle pub for lunch (own expense), then take a walk on Parker’s Piece — widely considered among Cambridge’s most attractive open spaces.

Alternatively, rent a punt (own expense) and travel in style along the pretty Cam River for panoramic views along the backs of the ancient university buildings. When your time in Cambridge comes to an end, return in comfort to King’s Cross station in London to conclude your tour.

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.

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.

Experience London like a Londoner and unlock the secrets of the River Thames' south bank on this 4-hour private walking tour with local guide that takes you from Big Ben to Tower Bridge. Itineraries are fully customizable, but typically visit the London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe, and Tower Bridge, as well as food markets, cute boutiques, cool restaurants, and a myriad hidden gems. 

Greet your local guide at Westminster tube station at a time of your choosing. As this is a private tour, you can customize your itinerary to suit your interests: just request a private consultation when you book to create a tailor-made tour.

A typical itinerary begins with a stroll across Westminster Bridge, stopping to capture views of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and, of course, the London Eye. As you explore the south bank of the Thames, you'll see attractions from the recreated Shakespeare's Globe theater to the Golden Hinde, a replica of a 16th-century pirate ship that circumnavigated the globe.

Yet this tour isn't really about the big ticket attractions. Following the curve of the Thames, your guide will take you deep below the city's surface, showing you secret locations that locals love and tourists often miss out on, and spots that never make it into the conventional guidebooks.

You'll duck down back streets to explore atmospheric lanes, cool restaurants, and indie stores, and discover up-and-coming neighborhoods, as well as Londoners' favorite food destination, Borough Market. Along the way, your guide will share their local knowledge, enabling you to discover this great city like a native.

A typical tour concludes at Tower Bridge, where you're free to explore the iconic structure (own expense), or catch a tube from Tower Hill.

Since Russell Norman opened the no-bookings Polpo in 2009, Soho has become the place to launch a trend-driven restaurant. In the past year alone, Duck and Rice (a Cantonese pub), Bao (Taiwanese) and Blacklock (‘skinny chops’), to name but a few, have opened their doors to great fanfare.

As you get stuck into selected tasting sessions, Louis will give his view of Soho’s fast-changing fortunes and introduce you to some of its best-known establishments. This experience will also take in the views of long-established Sohoites, passionate about their patch.

When your booking is confirmed, you will receive comprehensive details about your experience, including Louis's contact details and the meeting location. The supplier will send you a pre-experience questionnaire, which is essential for Louis to be able to tailor your tour to your interests.

You will meet Louis at the prior-arranged meeting location in Soho, centrally located for convenience. On foot, you will explore the area and its unique culinary offerings. You will visit three or four locations where you will sample some of London's most exciting dishes. Louis will also introduce you to the people responsible for some of London's newest and hottest kitchens, as well as some life-long Sohoites who will share their opinions on the development of the area.

As you discover Soho in depth, Louis will share stories about the history of the area, as well as regale you with insights into life in the food industry. A truly unique experience to tour a familiar area with an experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly guide. 

Formerly one of London’s most deprived areas, the East End has become a breeding ground for city slickers, start-ups and independent shops and cafes. Always a cultural melting pot, the area has seen a rapid gentrification, leaving much of it’s traditional cockney chirp, and inevitably some of its soul, far behind.

From the edge of Brick Lane to the hipster trails of Hoxton, this London photography tour will reveal what once was, and what is still to come for London’s East End. Charge up your camera and capture the neighbourhood’s cultural evolution while learning the tricks of the trade from a renowned photographer.

When your booking is confirmed, you will receive comprehensive details about your experience, including Stuart's contact details and the meeting location. You will also receive a pre-experience questionnaire from the supplier, which is essential for Stuart to be able to tailor your tour to your interests. 

Stuart will meet the guests in Whitechapel, from where they will wander East London's streets armed with their cameras. Stuart will help the guests with composing interesting photographs of iconic East End scenes. 

Stuart, a local, will inform guests about the history of the area and provide insights into attitudes towards gentrification in the area. You will finish up with a warming cuppa in a traditional pie'n'mash shop, an East London institution.

An acclaimed photojournalist, Stuart's work has been featured in global publications such as Life, Geo, Time, Der Spiegel, Newsweek and The Sunday Times Magazine. His career spans over 25 years, and he has covered the world, with notable assignments in Afghanistan and Haiti. Listen to his stories and learn what makes a great composition in London's East End. 

This walking tour uncovers the real story of their rise to power, the numerous police attempts to bring them to justice, the turf wars with the infamous Richardson gang and their eventual downfall. Ronnie and Reggie Kray spent much of their childhood and teenage years in London’s East End in areas such as Whitechapel and Bethnal Green.

They achieved their first taste of fame as boxers but they are now more famous for their gangland activities. The tour starts at 1.30pm every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Whitechapel tube station in the very heart of the East End the Kray twins once ruled. You will weave your way through the old Kray stomping ground, visiting the sites made famous in this fascinating gangster story. The tour lasts around 2 hours, you'll stop off for a break along the way.

Pick up from your hotel by your specially selected guide, you will make your way to the heart of Royal London. See Big Ben and marvel at the houses of Parliament and check if the Prime Minister is in before taking in Westminster Abbey (the church where William and Kate were married).

Pass the Churchill War Rooms and stroll through the beautiful St James Park and catch a guard change. March with the guides from the best position, most miss.  Have photos at Buckingham palace and hear it's surprising stories before being taken to restaurant selected for your tastes and requirements where your guide will leave you for lunch. Your guide takes pride in tailoring you a list of suggestions for your afternoon and rest of your trip.

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.

The Tower of London is Europe's best preserved medieval fortress, and one of London's oldest buildings. It was established by William the Conqueror in 1067, and over the centuries many members of royalty and the aristocracy have lost their lives here.

Accompanied by your private guide, you'll visit the Jewel House containing the Crown Jewels, the White Tower and Chapel of St. John, one of the purest expressions of Norman architecture. You'll gain incredible insights into the Tower's architecture and history on this private walking tour, with ceremony and tradition provided by the Yeomen Warden who parade daily at 11am in the Inner Ward.

Just down river from the Tower is Tower Bridge, a famous London landmark built between 1886 and 1894. The view from the towers provides a wonderful panorama of London, all the way down river to Greenwich and Canary Wharf.

This in-depth private walking tour of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge is hosted by an expert guide specializing in art history. Please list any special interests you have (art, architecture, history, culture) at the time of booking to alert your guide, so they can prepare for your private tour.

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.

Visit the wonderful British Museum on this 3-hour private tour with your own art historian guide. The British Museum, one of the world’s greatest historical treasure troves, is the largest ethnographic Museum in the world- culture is its theme. It represents not only British culture but it is a collection of World cultures such as the Egyptian, Assyrian, Mesopotamian, Greek, Roman, Pacific Ocean and Eastern Cultures.

This British Museum tour is ideal for a personalised perspective on the collections. Among the main objects are some of the most important Egyptian statues, the Egyptian Mummies, the famous Assyrian Lion Hunt, the Standard of Ur, the Parthenon Marbles, Roman sculpture with the famous Portland Cameo Vase and many more.

Get to know the other side of London by exploring the secret street art of Camden Town on this small-group, 2-hour walking tour. Wander down back alleys, secret lanes, and canal-side walkways, and hear the stories of the artists whose work lines the streets of this historic district from a guide who's an expert on London's street art scene.

Your guide will be either a photographer, a blogger, a 'wall organizer' who sources legal spaces for street artists, or some combination of these roles: they'll meet you at Camden Town tube at 10:55am.

Under their guidance, escape the main streets and the busy markets to get off the beaten tourist track and learn why half a million people visit Camden every week. One of London's most vibrant, interesting, and happening boroughs, this bohemian area is as alive with street art as it's full of music.

Discover great murals by some of London's leading street artists, as well as individual piece by international artists. You'll see over 100 pieces of street art that have transformed Camden into a dynamic canvas where artists leave their creative marks. Learn how an art form that was once considered vandalism now represents the personalities of cities all around the world.

Your guide will explain graffiti terms and the unwritten codes that govern this underground world, as well as how 'wall organizers' enable artists from all over the world to paint in London. You'll end your tour in central Camden at 2pm, just a short walk from the tube.

Come hang out like an A-lister in London’s Soho and Mayfair neighbourhoods — the playground of the rich and famous! We’re going to stuff ourselves with delectable desserts and chocolates and experience traditional English tea and scones, while uncovering the funny and shocking tales of the people who have made central London one of the most entertaining places in the world.

Starting in Piccadilly Circus (London’s beating heart), this stylish London food tour will take you through some of the city’s best spots for chocolates, desserts, and British tea and scones!

You’ll begin with a visit to the Queen’s own grocer and see some of the foods available within Buckingham Palace. You’ll also get to discover some of the greatest luxury brands at the world’s first glass-enclosed arcade, which just happens to be frequented by Hollywood A-listers, European aristocrats, and other rich and famous folks when they’re in town.

You’ll then dip a toe into London’s iconic Soho district as we explore Carnaby Street’s food and vibrant culture, and learn the funny — and sometimes scandalous — stories of the writers, musicians, and actors who have all called this corner of London their home.  

Visit one of the most lavish, outlandish chocolate and cake stores you’ve ever seen, where even the statues can be eaten.

And for the grand finale finish at luxury store, created from the wood of former wooden warships from the British Navy, now converted into one of the most opulent department stores in central London, where you’ll relax with English tea and scones.

Explore one of the world's most iconic entertainment districts, where the rich and famous have rubbed shoulders with the down-and-out for over 300 years, on this 2.5-hour small-group walking tour of London's Soho. Along the way you'll stop at four iconic pubs (own expense), and walk in the footsteps of some of the world's most famous actors, musicians, and writers as you visit locations from Soho Square to Chinatown to London's red light district.

Meet your local guide and friendly small group at Piccadilly Circus at 2pm, for this deep dive into the alleyways, courtyards, and byways of London's Soho neighborhood. Besides landmarks like St. Anne's Church, the French House, Chinatown, and Soho Square, you'll find out where the famous and infamous lived, worked, and played.

Stop at the club where Marilyn Monroe used a double to escape the paparazzi. Step into London’s red light district and learn about the 'English Hugh Hefner', who brought the sex industry to town. Discover which world leader established his World War II headquarters at the French House, and why there are statues of noses found all over the capital.

Find out where Karl Marx lived and wrote sections of Das Kapital, visit pubs frequented by George Orwell, and admire the former home of the legendary lover Casanova.

A trip through Soho is a trip through musical history. See the house where Mozart lived as a child prodigy. Visit a venue where legends like Jimi Hendrix played, and see Paul McCartney's business premises on Soho Square. Your last stop will be a bar made famous by John Lennon and Eric Clapton – Keith Moon from The Who was banned from here for life.

The tour finishes at 4:30pm. Feel free to accompany your guide back to Piccadilly Circus or continue exploring Soho's pubs and nightlife at your own pace.

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).

The Harry Potter books and film series have enthralled and captivated the world - now you can follow in the footsteps of the world’s most famous wizard and take a magical journey throughout London with this Harry Potter themed walking tour.

Your expert guide will take you on a spellbinding tour of the city to show you the exact locations where Harry filmed key scenes of this epic tale. Starting at Westminster, you’ll make your way to the Ministry of Magic; find the entrance to the ‘Leaky Cauldron’ before taking a walk down the real ‘Diagon Alley’, then stand in the very spot where the Death Eaters destroyed the famous Millennium Bridge.

You’ll not only see the locations where the films were shot, you’ll discover the magic behind locations such as Cecil and Goodwin Courts, and how these enchanting locations provided the inspiration for this wizarding adventure to unfold.

Your tour will conclude at Platform 9 ¾ - where you can try and make your own way to Hogwarts!

Enjoy a quintessentially English experience on this 3-hour walking tour of London’s finest historic pubs. Visit some of the city’s oldest and most famous pubs, and learn about the brewing process while sampling two craft beers. Hear tales about legendary patrons while soaking in the authentic atmosphere of three distinct establishments.

Meet your guide and fellow tour participants on the steps of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Then, enjoy a brief walk to your first stop, The Centre Page, one of London’s oldest surviving alehouses.

The Centre Page has gone by the past names of “The Horn Tavern,” “The Horn Coffee House,” and “The Bugell,” and is referenced in the 1663 diary of Samuel Pepys and the Charles Dickens literary classic, The Pickwick Papers. British-born Guy Fawkes was also known to frequent the pub, and was said to have conducted a meeting within its cellar walls.

Next, cross the Millennium Bridge and pass by the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre as you walk to Anchor Bankside, a 17th-century pub situated on the banks of the Thames River. Shakespeare himself supposedly enjoyed a pint of ale or two within the walls of the Anchor, a place that has been used as a tavern, brewery, and ship’s chandler. It’s also played host to a wealth of other notable patrons including Dr. Samuel Johnson, another of England’s best-known literary figures.

The pub contains a room dedicated to The Clink Prison, a prison located nearby along the aptly named Clink Street. Pass it en route to your next stop, the Old Thameside Inn. You will also see the remains of the Palace of Winchester, one of the largest and most important buildings in medieval London.

History oozes from the great beams and ancient brickwork of the Old Thameside Inn, formerly an old spice warehouse. Once inside, enjoy three samples of local beer while learning about the brewing process and sitting in the midst of a a life-size replica of Sir Francis Drake’s famous ship, The Golden Hind. At the end of your tour feel free to stay on in the Old Thameside Inn and enjoy a wide selection of ales or quality pub food, all served with a generous measure of British hospitality.

If you’re heading back toward St Paul’s Cathedral by way of the London Bridge underground stop, don’t miss the views of Southwark Cathedral along with the wide-ranging stalls of Borough Market.

Meet your friendly, local and knowledgeable guide in late morning at Trafalgar Square. You will get an overview of the tour as the excitement begins. Group sizes are kept to a maximum of 8 guests to ensure a personal experience.

Start off the day in style by exploring the Westminster area and marvel at Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Churchill's War Rooms, Westminster Abbey and much more. Hear fascinating stories about the construction and development of this iconic area.

Next, explore Royal London with a look at St. James' Palace and Buckingham Palace. Plus, experience the best of the Changing of the Guard ceremony from a secret vantage point that is perfect for photographers and be right in the heart of the action.

After a short journey on an iconic red London double-decker bus or the London Underground (your fare is included in your tour price), make a stop for lunch at Bankside and choose from a traditional London pub, the world-renowned Borough Market, or one of the many other local eateries (at own expense).

After a delicious lunch, the tour continues its excitement as you enter the historic 'City of London' district, an area founded by the Romans dating back almost 2000 years! Gaze at St. Paul's Cathedral as you cross the impressive Millennium Bridge and happening upon the Globe Theater.

Explore the world's most unique financial district and discover the secrets that lie round every corner as you hear about the Great Fire of London and the Great Plague. Plus, have your cameras ready for the stunning reveal of the Tower of London, London Bridge and Tower Bridge.

At the end of your unforgettable tour, you will conclude by Tower Hill underground station. From here you can choose to get the London underground to another location...or why not stick around after the tour and explore the local area further - the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the River Thames cruise pier are right here too!

Please note you do not enter inside any attractions during the tour. Use this as an orientation and overview of London, helping familiarize yourself with the city. It is the perfect way to see London in a day and decide on which attractions to experience on subsequent days of your visit. On days the Changing of the Guard ceremony does not take place, you will use this time to see more of Royal London.

Start off your walking tour to London with an introduction to culture and civilizations at the monumental collection of the British Museum, spanning 6,000 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 will learn about the Mummy of Katebet, the Lewis Chessmen and the original Rosetta Stone.  Walk away with an understanding of what humans have achieved during our short history and hopefully you will 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.

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.

From the origins of Cockney rhyming slang to the hipsters of Shoreditch via the curry houses of Brick Lane, this neighborhood is a proud representation of the vast melting-pot that is London. 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 alive with contradictions and colorful characters, and we’ll introduce you to our favorites, like the many vendors at Spitalfields Market. We’ll explore the streets and neighborhoods that will leave you wanting to stick around and mingle with the hipsters all afternoon.

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.

Meet your private guide at 10am or 2pm in east London, then head through the vibrant streets to begin your walking tour. Home to some of the capital’s most talented street artists, east London is alive with etchings, stencils and artwork in all styles and colors.

Explore areas such as Brick Lane, Shoreditch, and Spitalfields Market, and gain insight into their transformation from working-class neighborhoods to trendy centers of fashion and art. Along the way, enjoy a cultural overview of London’s East End — from its troubled years under the control of the Kray Twins to today — and admire diverse street art by the likes of Shepard Fairey and Banksy.

Learn of the origins of Cockney rhyming slang and the rise of hipsters in Shoreditch, stroll past bustling curry houses and stylish galleries, and soak up the atmosphere in this colorful corner of London. When your walking tour comes to an end, wave goodbye to your guide at Shoreditch High Street Station.

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.

On this tour, you will treat your taste buds to the gastronomic culinary cuisine of central London during a 3.5-hour walking food tour of this beautiful and vibrant London district.

Explore the eclectic neighborhoods of the City and Southwark, with an expert gastronomic guide and enjoy 10+ tastings of traditional English cuisine.

On this gourmet walking tour, you get to taste your way through local specialties. Visiting the finest markets (including the famous Borough Market), the oldest pubs, some of the most iconic London landmarks and meet the local artisans that make our food so delicious and unique.

You will not only get a feel for the flavor of English cuisine, but also the unique history and culture of London. Tour size is limited to 10 people for a personalized small-group experience. Come hungry because you will be fed and indulged on this tour.

The cuisine of London boasts a unique fusion of flavors, blending the rich complexity of English food with spices from the east and flavors from the commonwealth. With countless eateries and shops, London is bursting with this authentic flavor, if you know where to look!

Greet your local foodie guide near London Bridge and embark on your epicurean exploration of Central London. On this city walking tour, you will not only get a feel for the flavor of traditional London cuisine, but also the unique history, culture and heritage of London.
This tour shows you the best side of true, pure London cuisine.

Along the way, stop in some of London's most famous markets and specialty food shops hand-picked for their variety and authenticity. Sample traditional English cuisine such as a fish and chips, Ale drank in London for over 200 years, freshly made scones, scotch eggs, locally made cider.Taste locally produced cheeses, wine, plus sweet candy first produced in London 150 years ago and at the end of the tour experience cream tea like the royals. In all, you can expect to indulge in over 12+ food and drink tastings.

You will be taken to iconic London sites and famous markets, the food you will taste are local dishes that will change your idea of what British food truly is. The tour is for small groups and is led by entertaining expert local foodie guides, that will not only make sure you are well fed but will also educate you with stories that give you insights into London’s traditions and culture.

You’ll wander the streets to discover hidden away Shakespearean pubs, 1000-year-old markets, cobbled streets home to the original tea warehouses and see some of London’s most iconic landmarks. After approximately 3.5 hours of walking, talking, eating and drinking, say farewell to your guide near London Underground and the buzzing heart of the City. Whether you are a real foodie or not, this food walking tour will give you an out of the ordinary culinary experience! 

For 2.5 hours, your tour guides will whisk you away on a magical adventure to explore the Harry Potter movie locations in London. Uncover places that inspired J. K. Rowling and your guide will share weird and wonderful behind-the-scenes stories.

You will be led in small groups of a maximum 15 people as you cover some London landmarks passed on the tour as a little bonus. Some of the tour highlights are the entrances to the Leaky Cauldron and the Ministry of Magic, the inspirations for Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley and lots more. Choose from one of four departure times when you book.

Meet your tour guide at a central location in London at your selected time. Take the most entertaining tour of the movie sights and locations that inspired the Harry Potter series. Even the most ardent fans will learn something new and if you aren't the biggest fan of the series, you will learn surely learn something interesting about London and what turned this story into a phenomenon.
 
See sites such as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron, the Clink prison, The Wobbly Bridge and St. Paul's Cathedral from afar, The Golden Hinde, Westminster Station, (a few iconic London Landmarks), the Ministry of Magic and you will finish off by Charing Cross Road, where you will see the inspiration for Diagon and Knocturn Alley!

Step back in time to the London of William Shakespeare and follow in the footsteps of the world's most famous playwright on a two hour walking tour through the capital. Explore historic buildings that are connected to a writer who changed the world of literature and theatre.

Join us on this two hour walking tour through London, a city that was his home for the greatest part of his life. 
Even though London has changed a lot over 450 years, especially after the Great Fire and the Blitz, you will still be able to explore the history and the city life of the world's most famous playwright, who is considered as the greatest English language author who ever lived.

Starting off at The Old Vic, a theatre associated with the world's most famous Shakespeare production, you will be guided along the South Bank area of London, where you will learn more about the life of theatre during the life of the author. 

Along the way you will experience readings and learn about the 16th and 17h century London, that inspired Shakespeare and helped shape some of his well-known plays. Your knowledgable guide and actor will lead you alongside the River Tames, beautiful theatres and historic sites Shakespeare would have known been familiar with in his literature. 

While you enjoy this beautiful side of London, you can listen to your guide illuminate the tour with speeches from Hamlet, As You Like It, Antony and Cleoprata, Henry V as well as visiting film locations from the film of Richard III, in which Ian McKellen starred in. 

Travel back in time to the older London, that Charles Dickens used to know and follow in the footsteps of one of the most famous writers in the history of literature. Get to explore locations, the writer knew and loved and learn about sites that inspired his beautiful stories. 

Step back into a bygone era and get ready to learn about the wondrous life of Charles Dickens, beginning with his troubled childhood and ending with his breakthrough as an world renowned author. Visit some fragments of London that Charles Dickens not only knew but which he wrote about in his beautiful stories and gain an insight into the years that helped him into becoming a grand personality. 

Your guide will lead you through twisted alleyways and show you buildings and places including remains of the prison his father was incarcerated in. Listen to fascinating facts and beautiful quotes, while walking through ancient corners of London and enjoying breathtaking view’s of London’s skyline along the river Thames. 

During the walking tour you will journey back to the 19th century and be amazed by some of the remarkable sites Dickens once knew, visited and wrote about. 

Explore the spine-chilling history of Jack the Ripper’s murder spree, as we follow in his bloody footsteps through the dark alleyways of London’s Whitechapel and journey back to the Autumn of Terror in 1888.

On this 2 hour journey back to the Autumn of Terror in 1888, you will get the chance to trace the bloody trail of one of the world’s most infamous serial killers.

Get introduced to the history of Jack the Ripper, whose murders still haunt the people of London to this day and whose crimes can send a shiver down your spine. 

Regarded as one of London’s darkest and biggest mysteries started with the discovery of a body on the 31st of August in 1888, and sparked one of the greatest manhunts in British history. The identity has never been discovered and will most likely stay a mystery for ever. 

You will journey back into time and lean about the gruesome details of the murders and the blind investigations of the police forces, that never uncovered the mystery of who the killer was. You will hear about theories, fictions and facts, whilst walking through the dark streets, that once were stalked by Jack the Ripper.

This walking tour is a must for all Harry Potter fans. Meet your guide outside the Palace Theatre, and begin explore the exquisitely magical world that Harry and his friends found themselves in, on this amazing 2 hour walk. Your maximum group size of 35 will be sorted out into their 4 houses by the sorting hat. Then you will visit many of the famous landmarks from the films, and compete to outwit your guide with your knowledge of the story!

Visit all the inspirational areas of London that led JK Rowling to create the wizarding world we all know and love. See where all the films were shot in some of London's finest and most historical areas. Learn a thing or too about our amazing city too.

You'll be sorted by a sorting hat into your destined Hogwarts House, with a gift to mark the occasion. Your guide will be quizzing you and keeping score for each house too, so get studying your Harry Potter trivia. Not only is there an animated scoreboard, there are video clips to see to remind you of the scene you're looking at. Grab one of the available costume pieces and reenact famous scenes too - may the best house win.

Use your knowledge of spells to outwit the guide and seek out inspirations and film locations around the stunning city of London.

Marvel at locations, such as the entrance to the fictional Diagon Alley, invisible to the Muggle world, the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron, soak in the views from the bridge, which was destroyed in the Half Blood Prince.

You will start at the theatre that's currently showing "the Cursed Child", set 19 years after the battle of Hogwarts. From there, head down Charing Cross road following the route of the Deatheaters flight to Diagon Alley. Then visit the inspiration for Knocturn Alley and then a short walk down to Trafalgar Square to the Ministry of Magic. This 2-hour walk will take you from Leicester Square, to Trafalgar Square to the Thames, then over to St. Pauls Cathedral, to Millenium Bridge, then Borough Market and London Bridge. Finish your tour at Platform 9 3/4 of course, to check your house score.

Comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather are advised.

Venture into Soho and Covent Garden with your friendly guide to explore 10 years of booming coffee shops in London. Each establishment has a wonderful atmosphere, exceptional service and exquisite coffee, which will leave a memorizing taste within your mouth. Try a range of different caffeine treats that range from original and authentic espressos for the traditionalists at heart, to the V60 innovations for those who are more contemporary. 

Enjoy 4 drinks, which will be accompanied by delicious baked goods. Take home a voucher so you can come back and enjoy delicious coffee at your own pace. Soho and Covent Garden are filled with new, hip hangouts that are focusing on the art and science of coffee. From sourcing and roasting their own beans, to experimenting with different brewing processes, to training baristas who like to think their art degree hasn’t gone to waste by adorning your beverage with hearts, ferns and swans.

 

This private evening walking tour of classic London attractions starts in the heart of London; follow the Thames River from east to west, taking in the great sights of the British capital before ending your tour with a fish and chips dinner.

London's impact on world history and culture is second to no other city on Earth. London has seen Celts, Romans, Anglo-Saxons and Normans, and now people from across the world come and leave their mark on the capital, creating a uniquely varied city of amazing contrasts. Roman walls sit next to Norman castles, Victorian Bridges next to towering glass skyscrapers, and through it all runs the great River Thames.

The city’s 2,000 years of history will come to life as you pass the remains of Roman London and the 1,000-year-old Tower of London, and cross one of the most recognizable bridges in the world, Tower Bridge.

As you walk, your expert guide will recount stories that put in context such London sights as London Bridge, Borough Market, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, the Tate Modern, St Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

While the guided walk is in no way strenuous, you’ll work up an appetite for a classic London dinner of fish and chips; a firm British favorite for more than 150 years, consisting of a piece of cod, deep-fried in a beer batter so that it’s soft and succulent in the middle with a crisp shell, served with thick, perfectly cooked chips and tartar sauce. You will enjoy your dinner in one of London’s best fish and chip shops, an authentic, off-the-beaten-path place that stays true to the dish's working-class origins.

The Changing of The Guard is one of the most famous ceremonies in the world and a must-see London attraction, but what is the best way to experience it? There is more to it than can possibly be seen if you just join the melee pushing up against the gates of Buckingham Palace trying to catch a glimpse.

Over 2 hours we will offer you some of the best timed views of the different sites of the ceremony, and unlike any other London tour we will also explain to you why it is happening and trace the fascinating origins of the tempestuous history of guarding The Monarchy, allowing you to thoroughly appreciate what it is that you are witnessing.

Meet your guide outside of St. James's underground station and head over to Westminster Abbey and The Houses of Parliament to learn about the history and importance of our Monarchy, as well as finding out just why the Changing of The Guard Ceremony takes place.

After this it's a short walk to Horseguards parade to witness the oldest section of the ceremony, the Changing of the Horseguards. Then we will make our way  to see the start of the Footguards' ceremony outside of Saint James's Palace. Your guide will place you at the best vantage point to see the inspection, old guard, new guard, and bands play. They will explain the meaning behind all of the maneuvers and significance of the carefully orchestrated movement.

Then follow along with the guards and band as they head to Buckingham Palace, avoiding the melee of people pushing up against the gates of the Palace trying to catch a glimpse. Your guide will keep you out of the crowds while discussing the fascinating history behind guarding the famous monarchy. 

Finish the tour at the Green Park underground station (Jubilee Line, Victoria Line, Piccadilly Line), however if you would like to remain in the area and explore, your guide will be happy to give you directions to other attractions.

Meet your guide at London’s Southbank, and set off at a leisurely pace to discover the sights and stories of London’s dark underworld. One of the most prosperous cities for centuries, London has also been home to some of the world’s greatest crimes, misdemeanors and political conspiracies — committed by the higher echelons of society as well as common criminals.

Learn about Guy Fawkes and his 1605 Gunpowder Plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament — an event marked by the British on Bonfire Night — and hear about the Great Fire of London of 1666 when ferocious flames swept through the City of London. Stand by the Monument to the Great Fire of London (known simply to Londoners as ‘the Monument’) and ponder the theories that still surround the event today: was it started after a bakery accident or was it an act of arson as conspiracy theorists like to believe?

Look out for city sights and attractions linked to several of the stories as you walk, passing Blackfriars Bridge, associated with mafia assassinations, as well as the OXO Tower, London Bridge, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Millennium Bridge, Southwark Cathedral and more.

Hear about London’s most notorious art thefts as you pass the prestigious Tate Modern museum, listen to anecdotes about the hit man that mistakenly shot a dog, and prepare to be amazed by some of the more outlandish tales on the London streets. Is Paul McCartney the Paul McCartney of The Beatles fame or an imposter? Is the British government helping or controlling the lives of Londoners by Big Brother–style monitoring?

Besides the mysteries and speculation surrounding Princess Diana’s death in 1997, discover little-known facts behind some of London's well-documented bank raids, jewelry heists and more. Then, after 2.5 hours exploring the Southbank and surrounding area, make your way back to Monument Tube Station where your tour finishes.

Take a journey through the dark side of London on this ghostly nighttime walking tour, and listen as your guide tells you stories of the city’s haunted past of murder, execution and mystery.

After meeting your group, make your way to London’s most haunted park — a forgotten plague pit. Then, move on the St James's Palace where a royal murder took place and murky mystery behind the haunting. Continue on to the most haunted house in London which has spine tingling tales, and the Royal Academy where nuns can be heard screaming and doors slamming!

Scared? Don't worry, your guide will protect you from the spooky ghosts while providing lots of interesting historical insight. Continue to Eaton Place in Belgravia and learn the legend of the Unknown Warrior, an unidentified soldier buried in Westminster Abbey in 1920. When night falls and the church goes quiet, he can still be seen standing beside his grave.

Next, head to the riverfront for a walk along the Thames River where you will hear myths about the Lady in Black (who haunts All Hallows church), the ghosts of Downing Street and, of course, the mysterious Jack the Ripper, one of London’s most legendary murderers.

As you approach the Tower of London with its towering, ominous grey stone walls, learn about the many ghosts of people who were executed and murdered there, including wives of Henry VIII. You may even see Queen Anne Boleyn, the Tower’s most sighted ghost who was beheaded there in 1536 and can still be seen wandering the corridors at night — without a head, of course.

You will use public transportation on this tour, so be prepared with a charged Oyster card or a valid ticket. But don’t worry, you can also purchase one at the start of the tour.

Marvel in recognition at the sites of the Harry Potter movies’ famous scenes on your Harry Potter walking tour. Take a walk down the fictional Diagon Alley, hidden from the Muggle world that lurks nearby; see the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron, featured in the first movie; and stand on the bridge that was destroyed in the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

Meet your guide in Leicester Square, then after a short tube ride (make sure you have a valid Travelcard for Zone 1) to King's Cross, there's a great photo opportunity before your tour ends on the mythical Platform 9¾, where Harry caught the Hogwarts Express to school. Make sure you bring a camera. Packed with Harry Potter trivia and anecdotes throughout, you’ll see all these sights and more on your 2.5 hour walking tour.

View the city sights from the Thames River bank, walk from Embankment to the famous Tate Modern Museum. Along the way, let your guide give you the inside scoop on the London attractions that inspired J.K. Rowling’s vision, and see how real-life London sneaks into the magical world she invented.

Meet your guide in Aldgate (east London), and then set off on your walking tour of Whitechapel. Now a cosmopolitan area full of curry houses and markets, the neighborhood was once the stomping ground of London’s most fearsome serial killer – Jack the Ripper.

Never identified, the 19th-century killer struck at least five different times in the eerie streets of Whitechapel, selecting local prostitutes as his victims. Hear stories about the prime suspects and the theories surrounding their involvement, as you explore the darkened streets and East End pubs that are linked to them.

As well as hearing about the suspects, learn about the victims like Mary Jane Kelly and Elizabeth Strides, who suffered a brutal end under the hands of the ripper. Gruesome, yet clinically precise, the murders sparked huge media interest and an enduring international notoriety. Between seeing the sites, your guide will show original photographs of the crime scenes, plus newspaper cuttings from the period.

Finish your tour in a historical East End pub – the Ten Bells – a supposed watering hole of the killer. Enjoy a drink (own expense) while chatting with your guide and the rest of your group about the investigation, the East End and, of course, Jack the Ripper himself.

Meet your guide at St. Paul's Cathedral and then set off on a stroll to acquaint yourself with London’s finest old pubs. After passing iconic sights such as a former Shakespeare playhouse, head to Blackfriars in the City of London. As Britain’s banking hub for some 2,000 years, it’s no wonder that the City of London is home to some of London’s oldest pubs. Head inside one of the locals’ favorites to experience a proper London boozer at its finest — resplendent with wooden tables clustered around a horseshoe-shaped bar. Sip on quality local ales (not included) and soak up the bustling atmosphere while your guide points out features like the medieval wall frieze above the bar.

Head outside and walk along Fleet Street, another London neighborhood that brims with history. Wander through the cobblestone alleyways that typify this part of the city, and stumble upon a late 17th-century pub tucked away down a side street. Choose from the large selection of beers, ales and ciders on tap (not included) and sit down with your guide, hearing tales of British literary greats who once drank here – Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Charles Dickens and Alfred Tennyson, to name a few.

Leave your pub and work off your afternoon’s beers on a leisurely stroll to Covent Garden, a short walk away. Pass more historic pubs along the way, and hear tips from your guide about other drinking dens to visit in the capital for more beer or perhaps an evening meal at your own expense.

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.

Meet your guide in central London and set off on your 2.5-hour walking tour of the capital, seeing the sites used in the iconic James Bond films – a collection based on Ian Fleming’s 1950s and 60s novels about the escapades of British secret service agent 007.

Your tour will start at Charing Cross and then take a stroll across town to Westminster.

While walking your guide will keep you entertained with little-known facts and trivia about the hugely successful James Bond films. Hear tales of Sean Connery and Roger Moore – two of the actors who brought the debonair agent to life on screen -- and learn insider secrets about classic Bond films like From Russia, with Love and Casino Royale.

As an agent working for MI6 (a secret section of the British government) Bond was embroiled in politics, although he seemed to care little for it. Still, where better to learn about his fictional work than Westminster? The beating heart of British politics boasts government buildings a plenty, and many of them took center stage in films like Skyfall. See countless buildings used in the films and explore the secret bunkers where much-loved Bond characters, like his boss ‘M,’ hid.

After 2.5 hours on the trail of James Bond, your tour finishes near Vauxhall Station in the center of town.

Meet your guide – Stephen Marcus -- in Whitechapel, the gritty heart of London’s East End, and then set off on your 2-hour walking tour of the area, visiting film and TV program locations as well as real-life places associated with London’s criminal underworld.

Famously the stomping ground of the Kray twins (Ronnie and Reggie) who terrorized the East End during the 1950s and 60s, the area is rich with sites linked to them. Pay a visit to Repton Boys’ Club, where the twins learned to box, and see the Blind Beggar pub, where Ronnie killed an arch rival – one of the ruthless acts that propelled him from mere gangster into an East End celebrity icon (albeit a feared one).

Having rubbed shoulders with many of London’s ex-gangsters to prepare for his role in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Stephen has countless tales to tell, and you’ll hear the best as you walk from site to site. Learn about ‘The Guv’nor,’ Lenny McLean, a gangster-turned-good guy who started his criminal resume as a bareknuckle fighter before going on to act in popular UK TV programs, like Eastenders and The Bill.

You'll also hear tales of Barbara Windsor – a much-loved London actress who married one of the Krays' feared associates Ronnie Knight -- as well as discovering the dastardly doings of Brown Bread Fred, a chap nicknamed after the cockney rhyming slang in which ‘brown bread’ means 'dead' in reference to the murders he committed. See the pub used as Samoan Jo’s in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, as well as Hatchet Harry’s office, where ‘Porn King’ Harry Lonsdale worked in the film.

After two hours following the footsteps of London’s fictional and real-life gangsters, bid Stephen farewell. Your tour ends in the East End, at Columbia Road in Shoreditch.

Take a Harry Potter walking tour into the magical world of wizardry in London. Learn about London’s rich wizarding history, wonderful facts about the books and films and see many of the Harry Potter film locations used in London, these including the Ministry of Magic and the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron.

The tour will include familiar Harry Potter film locations as well as iconic London landmarks and known attractions including St Paul’s Cathedral, Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern, Borough and Leadenhall Markets and Monument.

Along the path of your Harry Potter walking tour you’ll have lots of opportunity to take pictures and see the different film locations up close. Tour group sizes are limited to ensure you have the best experience. On the tour you will go on a short tube journey, therefore you will need an Oystercard to travel in Zone 1 (own expense).

Best of Royal London Walking Tour Including the Tower of London and Changing of the Guard (4 Hours)Meet your guide at the Tower of London, and head inside before the doors open to the general public. Learn about the tower’s history, see the opening ceremony, and then use your time inside to explore independently. Perhaps visit the White Tower, Medieval Palace and Traitors’ Gate, and see the Crown Jewels — a dazzling collection of jewels still used by Queen Elizabeth II today.

After, meet back up with your guide and walk to a nearby pier for your 30-minute cruise. As you glide along the Thames River, listen to your guide share details about the sights you see including St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

Disembark at Embankment Pier, then stroll to Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade to watch the Changing of the Guard. As you watch the Queen’s Foot Guards or the Household Cavalry perform this impressive ceremony, listen to your guide talk about the history behind it.

Continue on foot through St James's Park and finish your tour by Buckingham Palace, where you’ll see the balcony where the British Royal Family appear during events. After your tour, enjoy two hours of free time for lunch (own expense) before meeting back up with your guide for your afternoon tour.

Please note: If there is heavy rain — or if the Changing of the Guard is rescheduled to early morning — the ceremony will be replaced with an extended walking tour.

Highlights of London Walking Tour Including Afternoon Tea (2.5 Hours)Meet your guide at the prearranged time and location in central London, and then set off on foot to begin your walking tour of London’s premier sights. If required, plug into a headset to help you hear your guide’s commentary clearly.

With your guide, stroll through the capital’s bustling streets and make your first stop at Trafalgar Square, home to the iconic National Gallery, the beautiful St Martin in the Fields church and Nelson’s column.

Continue on to Whitehall, the center of Her Majesty’s Government. Pass by Downing Street, home to the British Prime Minister, and the Horse Guards Parade, and proceed to Parliament Square.

Be awed by spectacular views of world-famous sights including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton were married.

After your walking tour, stroll to the 4-star St Ermin's Hotel, where you’ll indulge in a traditional afternoon tea. On arrival, take a seat in the lavish dining room and savor an exquisite spread of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and preserves, cakes and pastries, and a selection of British tea.

With your appetite sated, bid your guide a fond farewell before making your own way back to your hotel or next destination.

Meet your guide outside the Tower of London in the morning. Receive your early access ticket, then listen to your guide’s commentary before heading inside to explore independently. Bypass any entrance lines and step straight inside to see the opening ceremony. You’ll also be one of the first to enter the Jewel House, where the Crown Jewels — a dazzling collection of jewels still used today by Queen Elizabeth II — have been stored since 1303. You may also witness the opening ceremony, performed by the Yeoman Warders, or ‘Beefeaters.’
Stroll along the East Wall Walk for bird’s-eye views of the city streets, and see the ravens that have lived here since the reign of King Charles II. Visit the White Tower, Medieval Palace and Traitors’ Gate, and see the Tower Green where a string of traitors and monarchs, including Anne Boleyn, were executed.
After your visit, meet back up with your guide and head to a nearby pier where a cruise boat awaits. Hop aboard and find yourself a spot on deck, then have your camera ready as you set off on a 30-minute Thames River cruise. Listen to your guide share interesting details about the sights you see including St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
Disembark at Embankment Pier, then stroll with your guide to Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade to watch the Changing of the Guard. Listen to your guide talk about the ceremony’s history, then watch as the crimson-clad Queen’s Foot Guards or the Household Cavalry perform this impressive procedure.
Finish your tour outside Buckingham Palace. See the balcony where the British Royal Family appear during major events, and hear tales of murderous intruders and amorous princes scaling the walls to get both in and out.
Please note: If there is heavy rain — or if the Changing of the Guard is rescheduled to early morning — the ceremony will be replaced with an extended walking tour.

Meet your guide near Bank tube station in central London, and start your journey through the dark side of medieval and Victorian London, when crime and violence ruled the streets.
Put in your headphones and listen to the intriguing live commentary as you walk with your guide, who narrates ghost stories about such notables as Charles Dickens and an ethereal female figure that haunts the Bank of England. Pay rapt attention to the tale of two murderous queens who sometimes cross phantom paths and have supposedly been seen fighting one another in the evening’s inky darkness.
Next, you’re led past medieval burial pits as your guide recounts the grisly histories of London’s less fortunate through epic grave robberies, witchcraft trials and public executions. Learn about the life and crimes of Jack the Ripper, London’s most infamous serial killer.
Visit Viaduct Tavern, a Victorian pub built upon Newgate Prison, which closed in 1904. Constructed in view of the prison’s former gallows, the tavern’s cellars are said to hold the last remains of its cramped cells, and employees of this age-old pub say it is plagued by a poltergeist.
Your 2-hour tour comes to an eerie end at Smithfield’s Market, once the site of regular executions, including the hanging, drawing and quartering of William Wallace in 1305. Finish a frightening evening of thrills and chills as you listen to the sinful stories of Bloody Mary and the ghost of St Bartholomew’s Hospital, known as the ‘Grey Lady.’
Please note: the order of sightseeing, as described above, is subject to change on the day of your tour.

Meet your guide at the prearranged location in central London, and then set off on foot to begin your walking tour of London’s premier sights. If required, plug into a headset to help you hear your guide’s commentary clearly.

With your guide leading the way, stroll through the capital’s bustling streets and make your first stop at Trafalgar Square, home to the iconic National Gallery, the beautiful St Martin in the Fields church and Nelson’s column. Pose by the 'Landseer Lions' and listen to your guide share fascinating details about this famous hot spot.

Continue on to Whitehall, the center of Her Majesty’s Government, and view the street lined with official administration departments and ministries. Pass by Downing Street, home to the British Prime Minister, and the Horse Guards Parade, and proceed to Parliament Square.

Be awed by spectacular views of world-famous sights including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the magnificent Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton were married.

After your walking tour, enjoy a leisurely stroll to a nearby hotel, where you’ll indulge in a sumptuous afternoon tea. As you walk, learn from your guide about this quaint tradition that is thought to have been started by one of Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting.

On arrival, take a seat in the hotel’s lavish dining room and be delighted as the waiting staff present you with an exquisite spread of delicate finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and preserves, fresh cakes and pastries, and a selection of British tea.

With your appetite sated, bid your guide a fond farewell before making your own way back to your hotel or next destination.

Meet your guide in central London, and then set off on a walking tour around Westminster, the central London borough and home of British espionage that became the target of heavy bombing during WWII. Learn about the government staff who sheltered from the bombs in bunkers beneath Westminster’s streets, and hear tales of Churchill and his charismatic leadership during the Blitz and beyond. Your guide has intimate knowledge of the London area as well as its WWII history.

After taking in classic London landmarks such as 10 Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, stop at the Cenotaph — a famous British war memorial — to pay your respects to the fallen, and then pose for photos by the Statue of Winston Churchill.

Next, bid your guide a fond farewell and head underground to independently explore the wartime bunker of the Churchill War Rooms, a hastily created office that served as the British war cabinet’s hub throughout the duration of WWII.

Your first stop inside the site is Churchill Museum, an interactive exhibition space dedicated to the wartime leader. A piece of living history, the museum is home to an array of Churchill artifacts such as cigars and outfits as well as audio recordings of his inspiring wartime speeches. Hear little-known facts and anecdotes about the leader’s private and public life, and learn of the ‘special relationship’ he cultivated with President Roosevelt — a relationship that changed the course of history.

After visiting the museum, plug into your included audio guide and set off to discover the rest of the war rooms. The underground maze of bunkers and corridors became the home of secret government staff during the war, and many staff didn’t even see natural light from day to day. Learn about their isolation beneath ground, and hear of the top-secret conversations and day-to-day domestic crises that took place.

How long you spend inside the Churchill War Rooms is up to you, but many visitors find 1.5 hours to be sufficient.

See British tradition come to life on this fully-guided Changing of the Guard walking tour that ensures you get the very best views of this spectacular ceremony.  Don’t make the same mistake that so many visitors often – and understandably – make, believing the prime vantage point from where to experience this time-honoured tradition is outside Buckingham Palace.

These spectators’ enthusiasm quickly turns to disappointment when they realise that they have waited for hours only to see the very end of this unique performance, their view often blocked by the throngs of people crowding around them. Instead, follow your guide on a dynamic journey that takes in the entire Changing of the Guard from beginning to end as they expertly navigate the crowds to take you to the best – and most photographable – viewpoints.

Your guide is an expert on the history of this fascinating ceremony and their knowledge will give you invaluable insight into every detail of this British spectacle. With your own personal headset allowing you to easily follow your guide’s entertaining commentary, you can fully take in the splendour parading past you. Marvel at the precision with which the Queen’s Foot Guards march to Buckingham Palace, clad in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats, or admire the gleaming coats of the Household Cavalry’s horses as they emerge at Horse Guard’s Parade. With a small group of only 15 people or fewer you will be able to move quickly from vantage point to vantage point; your guide pointing out interesting details while you take as many photographs as you want!

Please note: The Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. Even when cancelled, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade.

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.

On the morning of your tour, make your own way to Westminster Abbey to meet your guide. Sitting alongside Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the history-steeped Gothic showstopper is one of the world’s most spectacular churches. It’s also been the site of all of England's royal coronations — with the exception of two — since the crowning of William the Conqueror in 1066.

With your guide and prebooked ticket, which entitles you to fast-track entry, head inside to learn more about the abbey’s storied past. Follow in the footsteps of some history’s most fascinating characters, from Elizabeth I to Queen Elizabeth II, as you walk down the black-and-white checkered isle toward the Coronation Chair. Peer out at the 900-year-old College Garden while you stroll through the impressive Cloisters, and spot the graves of some of the world’s most famous wordsmiths, including Dickens, Hardy and Tennyson in Poets’ Corner.

After touring Westminster Abbey, take a stroll to Horse Guards Parade or along the Mall to watch the Changing of the Guard. Listen to your guide talk about the ceremony’s history as the Queen’s Foot Guards, in their cherry tunics and bearskin hats, or the plumed Household Cavalry pass right in front of you.

Finish your tour outside Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s official London residence. See the balcony where William and Kate kissed before the public after their wedding in 2011, and hear stories of intruders and princes scaling the walls before bidding your guide goodbye.

Please note: If there is heavy rain — or if the Changing of the Guard is rescheduled to early morning — the ceremony will be replaced with an extended walking tour.

Get an authentic taste of one of London's most vibrant neighborhoods on this 3.5-hour small-group Soho food tour. Explore the honeycomb of streets, lanes, and courtyards nestled behind some of London's most famous shopping streets, discover its rich and diverse history, and enjoy up to six food stops to sample international food.

Meet your gastronomic guide and small group at Golden Square, Soho, at 2:15pm for a journey into one of London's most cosmopolitan and vibrant districts, a rich blend of history and modernity. Packed with pubs, bars, cafés, snack shops, and restaurants, Soho is home to a startling variety of international cuisine: from Chinese (especially in Chinatown) to Japanese, Mexican, Italian, and modern British.

You'll learn how Soho became London's Bohemia, from the first influx of immigrants in the late seventeenth century that gave it its name “the French Quarter” to the glory days of 20th-century nightlife and sleaze. Discover a culinary melting pot once home to the capital's leading intellectuals and artists.

As you explore, enjoy up to six food stops at places popular with the locals. Get insider tips from your guide on avoiding the tourist traps, and develop a great, first-hand feel for the real, everyday Soho — the one that’s not always immediately obvious.

Stop at various food outlets, including a historic, tucked-away foodie courtyard, and taste different world foods. Samples and stops on each tour vary according to availability, but expect to taste dishes such as dim sum in Chinatown, scrumptious Mexican tacos, and Japanese seaweed-rolled sushi.

Chat to the vendors about their creations as you eat, and in between stops, soak up the vibrant, villagey atmosphere. Hear stories about Soho’s fascinating history and the  famous figures, including writers, artists and poets, who have shaped its culture and folklore.

Your tour finishes in Soho around 5:45pm, when your guide bids you goodbye. They'll be happy to offer directions to wherever you plan to go next, or suggestions for places for you to start your evening.

You’ll get to try many famous British foods, all guaranteed to get your taste buds tingling. Firstly, your local London guide will take you to the exciting Borough Market to soak up the atmosphere, see the 100 different stalls and eat some English fudges/chocolate. This eating paradise was not even on the tourist foodie radar a few years ago.Still in the market, you will try award winning Lincolnshire sausages followed by the best and most fresh fish and chips in town (and you will get to see the difference between ‘chips’ and ‘French fries’).

Next will see local chocolate and cheese shops and try freshly baked homemade bread from the famous Bread Ahead Bakery.
Your tour will continue to a historic pub where you can try the best of British cheeses, served with grapes, fig cakes and chutneys
Washed down with real London Beers, Ales, or delicious ciders (or non-alcoholic options).
You’ll also see the world famous London Bridge and Tower Bridge along the River Thames and also the Battleship HMS Belfast.
Finally, the tour ends with classic desserts, such as cheese cakes, chocolate brownies or treacle sponge pudding all washed down with a pot of refreshing tea. Oh, and of course there’s the delicious secret dish too!

London Bridge has a flourishing market and food scene, mixed with real London life, historic culture and charming ambiance. The area is packed with exciting little back streets, pubs and market stalls, all adding to its appeal as a unique London food destination.

You can’t go to London Bridge without going to Borough Market and seeing the River Thames. During your tour, your guide will entertain you with stories about the area, and by the end, you’ll have a great understanding of the city’s food, its history and culture along with some top tips about the best places to visit.

Taking in sights of London under the sun, and then more atmospheric images as the sun goes down, you will enjoy all the very best London has to offer with your personal, professional photographic guide. We will lead you to superb photographic opportunities for all kinds of subjects, from landmarks and people watching to hidden secrets and great views over the city, all the while offering practical tips and helping you to develop your own creative vision.

Each tour is crafted to the skills and needs of the participants. Apart from taking photos, you can also expect to learn:
Creative composition, using lines, repetition, camera angles
Training your eye: composition, subjects, lighting
Taking control of your camera: f-stop, shutter speed, ISO and focusing
Night photography basics
Light painting
Night portraiture - getting the most out of your flash
Long exposure light streaking - cars, boats
Reviewing your photography

Each tour is private, but feel free to bring along guests, such as other photographer friends or your partner and family, but we ask you limit the group to four people. This way we can work at your pace to make sure you take away the skills that last a lifetime.

This 3-hour private tour will take you through the center 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. Whether you are an old hat to London, or just are fascinated with a different neighborhood, this tour can be customized 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.

During the tour you can expect to learn:
Composition, use of lines and angles
Learning how to find your images
Exploring your camera: how to use and understand; f-stop, shutter speed, ISO and more
How to make the perfect exposure in Manual mode
A friendly evaluation of your work

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.

Follow in Harry, Ron and Hermione's magical footsteps and explore film locations, places that inspired J.K. Rowling epic book series turned forever memorable by incredible wizards brought to life in the biggest movie series of all times. On this 3-hour tour, which includes an unhurried visit to Platform 9 ¾ - tour Muggles will learn a little about the weird and wonderful goings-on during the filming of the beloved Harry Potter movies as well as see other incredible London highlights. See the London of Harry Potter’s magical world, as your expert guide introduces you to locations, such as the entrance to the fictional Diagon Alley, hidden from the Muggle world that lurks nearby, and the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron, featured in ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’. Stand on the bridge, which was destroyed in the ‘Half Blood Prince,’ and hold onto your hats and scarves as you imagine Lord Voldemort’s Death Eaters swooping over you.

Your expert local guide will leave you in awe with their inside scoops on the London attractions, which inspired J.K. Rowling’s vision, and you’ll see how real-life London appears magically into the world she invented. With Harry Potter and his friends, the city of London becomes more enchanting than ever, making our magical tour suitable for Harry Potter fans of all ages and highly recommended for thrilling family fun. The tour covers the best movie locations as well as Platform 9 ¾, for the best tour photograph mementos. The guide is a Tour Wizard who will leave you spellbound – but still a Muggle!

On this exciting 3-hour tour you’ll start the morning with an opportunity to witness the Tower of London opening ceremony and be one of the first to view the Crown Jewels before the crowds arrive. Formerly a fortress, a prison, and the macabre execution site of three Queens of England, this tour includes pre-booked early morning tour where tour guests bypass the crowds that form later in the day and enjoy being among the first to see the Crown Jewels. This incredible collection is on view in the Jewel House for the last 600 years and include swords, crowns, scepters, orbs, rings all in a dazzling collection that is sure to inspire and captivate anyone who is fortunate to visit. Guests will spend approximately two hours on site exploring the Tower highlights before being led on a thrilling walking tour over the Tower Bridge before enjoying easy access to the Tower Bridge Exhibition for amazing one-of-a-kind views of this remarkable London icon and city wonder.

Before entering the Tower Bridge Exhibition for a self-guided tour, your expert local guide will accompany the tour group to a secret location to take the best picture of the City of London and give an incredible captivating detailed narration on the Tower Bridge including the story of its important past and its remarkable connection to British history. This must-do tour invites any visitor to London a one of a kind opportunity to discover two of London's most famous attractions. On this tour you will be guaranteed a tour experience to explore British iconic history, spectacular views, enthralling exhibitions and magnificent royal heritage.

Follow in Harry, Ron and Hermione's magical footsteps and explore film locations, places that inspired J.K. Rowling epic book series turned forever memorable by incredible wizards brought to life in the biggest movie series of all times. On this 3-hour tour, which includes an unhurried visit to Platform 9 ¾ - tour Muggles will learn a little about the weird and wonderful goings-on during the filming of the beloved Harry Potter movies as well as see other incredible London highlights. See the London of Harry Potter’s magical world, as your expert guide introduces you to locations, such as the entrance to the fictional Diagon Alley, hidden from the Muggle world that lurks nearby, and the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron, featured in ‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’. Stand on the bridge, which was destroyed in the ‘Half Blood Prince,’ and hold onto your hats and scarves as you imagine Lord Voldemort’s Death Eaters swooping over you.

Your expert local guide will leave you in awe with their inside scoops on the London attractions, which inspired J.K. Rowling’s vision, and you’ll see how real-life London appears magically into the world she invented. With Harry Potter and his friends, the city of London becomes more enchanting than ever, making our magical tour suitable for Harry Potter fans of all ages and highly recommended for thrilling family fun. The tour covers the best movie locations as well as Platform 9 ¾, for the best tour photograph mementos. The guide is a Tour Wizard who will leave you spellbound – but still a Muggle!

Meet your private guide near Westminster Tube Station, or start your tour with a pickup at your centrally located London hotel. Then, head through the heart of London to begin your 3-hour walking tour.

Stroll past Westminster and the Houses of Parliament and — if you’re lucky — hear Big Ben chiming in the tower. Discover famous landmarks including Horse Guards Parade, the Prime Minister's home on Downing Street, and Westminster Abbey — widely considered among the finest historic buildings in London.

Admire memorials to wars fought in foreign lands, then soak up the atmosphere in bustling Trafalgar Square — home to the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column. Head onward though Covent Garden and China Town to Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, then amble through Green Park to the gates of Buckingham Palace.

When your walking tour comes to an end, return in comfort to Westminster Tube Station or your London hotel.

A walking tour to historic pubs in London with a chance to sample a local beer/ale, soft drink or tea/coffee in unique and historic surroundings as you learn about the history of the pub and locale.

A Pub Crawl, so named in the finest English tradition because in the old days and indeed not so old days, pub drinkers would stop off for a drink at as many pubs as they could until they were reduced to crawling between venues.

Whilst we won’t be going there, this traditional pub walk will visit some of the finest old pubs in London.  Each one with a very different atmosphere and history but all sharing a fine offering of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in a wonderful building.

From the fringes of the East End, we will visit pubs in Clerkenwell and Farringdon before visiting some truly historic pubs in Holborn and Lincoln’s Inn Fields.

Enjoy a pint or 1/2 pint of beer/ale or soft drink such as coke/lemonade or orange juice... tea or coffee in every pub we visit in this private guided tour.

This private tour of historic London pubs takes us to several famous and infamous old pubs in some very different parts of London. Get to experience London like a local, enjoy traditional drinks in very authentic locations.

This private guided tour of 5 historic London pubs will take us to some of the most historic and traditional pubs in London.  However they are all in very different locations and neighbourhoods, joined together by easy London Underground trips.

Though all very different, they all share fascinating and unique histories as well as providing a wide range of quality traditional drinks in a very authentic London atmosphere. 

Get away from the tourist and get to experience London as we Londoners enjoy it.  Visit places you wouldn't otherwise see and learn some interesting history on these less visited parts of our wonderful city.

In each pub as well as a great atmosphere and interesting neighbourhood and hopefully conversation too... you get to choose from a wide selection of traditional local beers and ales.  Of course soft drinks, juices and teas/coffees are also available for those of us that don't have hollow legs which includes your guide of course!

On this special Harry Potter Walking Tour you’ll visit many of the memorable London locations seen in the Harry Potter movies.

The 3-hour tour takes you by foot and by Tube to places that Harry, Hermione, and Ron visited, as well as others that were the inspiration for J. K. Rowling when she wrote the series.

See the location of the Leaky Cauldron and the real life Diagon Alley. You'll also see where the Death Eaters launched their attacks, and the route that Harry, Hermione, and Ron took to escape.

Discover the location of the Ministry of Magic, the very spot where the Knight Bus squeezed between London buses, and Gringotts Bank. Finish the tour with a visit to Platform 9 3/4 with the newly opened, Harry Potter store.

This walking tour will take us to places that both inspired Charles Dickens the writer but also those real locations that shaped Dickens the man.  All writers take inspiration from the people they meet and places they visit, and Charles Dickens was no different.  His novels are so successful because he so enjoyed wandering the streets of London and picking up the rich details of everyday life.

This Charles Dickens tour will start off south of the Thames in one of the lesser visited areas of Central London where we will visit the only surviving remnant of Marshalsea Prison, which had such an impact on young Charles and his family.Nearby we will visit Little Dorrit Church and see the only remaining galleried inn in all of London which Dickens himself would visit and the building next door where Sam Weller met with Mr. Pickwick in the famous scene from The Pickwick Papers.

Northwards we will go as we meander through the ancient Borough Market with its Victorian structure that both Dickens and his characters were so familiar with before reaching the river and the steps where Nancy met Mr. Brownlow in Oliver Twist which quickly led to her horrific death.

Crossing over the famous old river we will visit Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, which featured both in Dickens work but was also a favourite drinking establishment of the writer, and then we begin to enter one of the great legal areas of London where Magwitch visits Pip at his chambers in Great Expectations.

Just along the road is where Charles Dickens worked in the Blacking Factory but in the literary world, David Copperfield and Martin Chuzzlewit found themselves before we find ourselves at the famous Old Curiosity Shop, perhaps the oldest shop in central London.Lincolns Inn Fields was close to Dickens home and as such features prominently in his literature.  The Old Hall appears in the opening scene of Bleak House where close by we will see the home of Charles Dickens friend and biographer, John Forster, whose property became the residence of Mr. Tulkinghorn in Bleak House.

More Bleak House locations come thick and fast as we pass The Royal College of Surgeons and the likely location of Krooks horrid shop before he went up in flames.

As we reach the end of our tour, we walk the streets of Bloomsbury that were long the literary capital of the world and whose residents have included Orson Welles, Virginia Woolf, E.M. Forster, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and JM Barrie, who created Peter Pan.

The tour concludes at the Dickens House Museum where you will be free to visit in your own time or perhaps have a lunch in one of the many fine old pubs and restaurants in this district of Bloomsbury that Charles Dickens knew so well.

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.

This private walking tour might not take you to many of the big tourists sights and famous buildings (though you'll see a few) but what it will do is take you to is to real London.  Sometimes a scary London, full of history of murders, dark deeds by criminals and often even more horrendous tortures and executions by the State. This tour will cover a number of neighborhoods, all of different characteristics and historical time periods.  You'll will start off in the heart of the East End and visit one of the most notorious pubs where The Krays famously and violently ruled the roost in the heart of the old East End (of London).

Not too far away you will go back in time almost a century and you will retread the footsteps of Jack The Ripper and his victims whilst visiting and learning about the feared Workhouses that so many lived in and so many were trapped in. From there you will head towards Smithfields, home of many a famous and bloody execution.  Stopping briefly at the beautiful St. Bartholomews church, you'll then visit the shrine of William Wallace (Braveheart) where he was put to death in one of the most horrible ways imaginable.

Onwards you'll go to the site of the old Newgate prison where people awaited their trials and deaths for centuries and you will stand on the spot where many of the executions were enacted. The Old Bailey is famous in the U.K. for being the court that holds many of the most infamous trials both now and then and you'll get to see one of the oldest courts in the world as you make our way towards St. Pauls and across the river where the notorious Clink Prison awaits us. Finally, you will pass through the maze of alleys around Borough Market and the setting for the poverty-stricken world of Charles Dickens before finishing on the site of the old Debtors Prison which influenced that Victorian writer in the most stark ways.

This private walking tour takes you on an interesting 2.5 hour walk around the Bloomsbury district of London. What Montmartre in Paris is to the world of art then so is Bloomsbury to the world of literature. Bloomsbury was the center of the English-speaking literary world in the 19th and 20th centuries and to a degree still is.  The beautiful squares and quiet neighborhoods created a special community where writers from around the world would come to live and write in a creative atmosphere.

On this tour you will visit the homes of a number of world-renowned writers, see the largely unchanged neighborhoods that they lived in and which helped form some of the greatest works of literature of all time. Just some of the places you will visit include the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Charles Darwin and the Suffragette Millicent Garrett Fawcett. You'll see the building that inspired George Orwell and his Ministry of Truth in 1984. Learn about the tragic life of Virginia Woolf, a prominent member of the Bloomsbury Group and the location of where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle invented the famous sleuth Sherlock Holmes and why he never liked his famous detective.

Such luminaries as Gertrude Stein, Aleister Crowley, Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde and WB Yeats round off the tour, not forgetting J M Barrie whose wonderful story of Peter Pan continues to help a world-famous children’s hospital in London to this day.

Explore London from an alternative perspective on a 4-hour rock and pop music tour. Learn about some of the stars from across the decades that made London swing. A private guide will take you on a journey through London’s musical legacy, from the Swinging Sixties through the ‘70s and ‘80s eras of rock, pop, and punk. Hear about the leaders of the Britpop and Cool Britannia moments in music history.

Visit iconic locations with close connections to some of the biggest stars. Discover where bands played their first gigs, and where others got their big breaks. See where singers lived, and where others are memorialized, such as the statue of Amy Winehouse in Camden Town.

Go to the legendary Abbey Road Studios made famous by The Beatles. Have your photo taken on the zebra-crossing. Continue south to Waterloo to discover the spot that inspired The Kinks' hit “Waterloo Sunset.” Visit the shrine to David Bowie in Brixton.

Next, go to the café where a young Bob Dylan became a hit, and where the Rolling Stones' drummer Charlie Watts got a lucky break. Discover the inspiration for Blur's epic hit “Park Life” in Kensington Park. Transfer to China Town and visit the scene where the Rolling Stones were first discovered. Then, stroll through Soho following in the footsteps of Elton John, Paul Simon, The Sex Pistols, and Jimi Hendrix.

This private walking tour will transport you back to the dark and chilling world of the Whitechapel Murders in East London. Follow in the footsteps of the notorious and never identified Jack the Ripper.

During the autumn of 1888, Jack the Ripper murdered, at least, five women with several other horrendous killings before and afterwards that may or may not have been carried out at the hands of the man voted The Worst Briton of All Time. Explore the old streets of Whitechapel on this private 2 hour day-time tour.

Whitechapel has changed a lot in the 126 years since Jack by luck, deviousness and opportunity wrought terror in the middle of the biggest city in the world and yet escaped time after time.  However much remains the same too and we will visit the landmarks of Whitechapel; the pubs that both Jack and his victims frequented, the lanes and alleyways where Jack stalked his victims and visit the precise spots of some of these dastardly crimes.  We’ll also visit the place where he left his only two clues which even now may be giving away his true identity.

As well walking in the footsteps of history, you will learn about the myths and truths of Jack the Ripper and the hear of the awful social conditions that the poor and ladies of Whitechapel had to survive in.

Meet your guide at Aldgate East tube station.  Your private group or even brave individual will retread the cobblestones of the East End of London. This tour is especially for those of you who want to do something different in London and don’t fancy walking Whitechapel at night or in a large group. You will also get to see how vibrant the area is now with its amazing street art and markets.

You’ll learn what living in the East End was like in those days and visit what remains of Dorset Street, pivotal to the Jack the Ripper story and once the worst street in London and so bad that it now barely exists at all.  See awful conditions that the residents, women and men alike had to endure.  Discover the lucky breaks that Jack had and the misconceptions that the Police had of what the world’s first and still most feared serial killer would be like.  Some of the buildings have changed; the streets may have new names, but the horror remains!

Discover UNESCO-listed Maritime Greenwich on this private 2-hour photography tour that's suitable for cameras, tablets, and smartphones. Under the guidance of a professional photographer, your private group will learn new ways to compose your shots and capture the moment as you snap captivating scenes from the Cutty Sark clipper to olde-worlde pubs and shingle-clad beaches.

Your professional photographer guide will meet you near the Cutty Sark clipper at the chosen start time, and find out what you and your group want to learn: be sure all devices are fully charged the night before. After an introduction to lighting, composition, or whatever your group is focused on learning, you'll capture this 19th-century sailing ship in all her glory.

After, you'll make your way along the Thames Path, photographing outstanding river views. Take time to explore the historical surroundings of Greenwich Pier before stopping off in the grounds of the 18th-century Old Royal Naval College to immortalise its outstanding architecture and sense of place and history. Your guide will offer tips on composition as you go.

Continue along the Thames Path and discover quirky alleyways with cobbled streets and quaint houses. Photograph the dome of the O2 Arena from across the river and admire its position in the London skyline. Pass olde-worlde pubs with statues of seafarers like Lord Nelson, discover deserted river beaches covered in sand and shingle, and capture boats and ships on the River Thames. Don't neglect to photograph Trinity Hospital, which dates from 1616 and is the oldest building in Greenwich.

You'll finish your tour by the Cutty Sark pub, just a short walk from Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich DLR. 

Enjoy a private photography tour as a professional photographer photographs you! Get the best photographs of you and your group of your trip to London. You don't need a camera for this tour as you are photographed by your personal photographer who exquisitely photographs you.

Locations include many London Classic Monuments; Trafalgar Square, Fountains, National Gallery, Westminster, Big Ben and Royal Horseguards. Be photographed along the tour route in front of red phone boxes, outside tube stations and famous statues and monuments. It's up to you how you want the photographs to look. Choose from street style, fun loving style or classically posed. The locations include as many iconic landmarks as possible. Your personal photographer discusses this with you at the start of the tour and brings out the best in you.

30 top quality photographs and post processing of images are included. Each guest downloads the photos from Dropbox. They are ready in 7-10 days. Professional DSLRs and lenses are used to ensure professional quality.

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

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. Explore the vibrancy of the South Bank and photograph street entertainers, musicians and market stalls which are part of this exciting landscape.  Working in a traffic free zone we take our time to learn how to get the best out of your camera. Your expert photographer will get you to the best viewpoints to take photographs to be proud of.

Take a short working break for light refreshments (own expense) and to review progress. Photographs are also reviewed regularly during the 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.

During the South Bank Photography Walking Tour Learn How To;

• Compose a subject

• Use aperture value and depth of field

• Use shutter speed for different subjects

• Use lenses for different shots

• Use light to its advantage

• Get the best from the camera you own

• And much more...

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.

Meet your guide in central London at your hotel and set off on an entertaining walking tour of the City of London. Catch a double decker bus. Then stroll along cobbled alleyways to reach the Strand and Fleet Street, home of Britain’s national newspapers until the 1980s.

Continue on to St Paul’s Cathedral, London’s highest point for more than 1,400 years. Rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, St Paul's has hosted many national events including the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales, and Lady Diana Spencer. Stroll through London's oldest district while learning more about catastrophic events like the Great Fire that reshaped the city, or the plague that killed a third of London’s population. Cross famous Millennium bridge and visit Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral, Golden Hinde II – Sir Francis Drake's Famous Galleon.

Conclude your tour with a stop by London Bridge station. Learn how Tower of London, 11th-century stronghold of William the Conqueror became a palace, prison, and gruesome execution place, and hear tales of prisoners like Anne Boleyn – Henry VIII's unfortunate second wife – who met her end there in 1536. Your tour ends at center of London.

The tour begins in late morning at Piccadilly Circus where you will be given an overview of what to expect. Make your way down lower Regent Street to Waterloo Place, where you will be told a little bit about royal history and the general area of Pall Mall and St James. After hearing about the history of the Duke of York Column, you will be led along the Mall, stopping at various places along the way, possibly including the Royal Society, a statue of King George VI and Marlborough House.

Then, head over to St. James Palace, where we will await the arrival of the Old Guard on the courtyard. The inspection will take place, and the Guards will then depart. 

The next part of the tour involves marching in step with the Guards. Your guide will then take you to see the New Guard at Wellington Barracks. We will then finish the tour with a wonderful view of Buckingham Palace. Although this is the proposed itinerary, it is at the mercy of the British Army, British weather, and crowd size, so it is in its very nature a rather flexible tour.

Please note that as you march at the same pace as the guards at one point and encounter two flights of steps, you must have a reasonable level of fitness and be physically able in order to take this tour. Also, while you will see various stages of the Changing the Guard ceremony, you will not see the section within the courtyard of Buckingham Palace as the crowds are too large and also very little happens there.

Discover the secret side of London as you look for the unusual, hidden and quirky. Along the way you'll find the smallest police station in the world, the Duke of Wellington's nose, an ancient water gate and the most superstitious hotel in London. Tour departs at 1:30PM

This tour will allow you to explore the local streets with a local guide who will ensure you get inside insight on central London. This is a popular tour for both couples or families and the small group ensures you can get personalized service.

Of course this tour is a Secret London tour so it would be remiss of us to divulge all the secrets!

This tour will take you through some of the most atmospheric alleyways of London as you walk through the winding streets in and around Fleet Street and Temple. There is so much to see in this area if you know where to look, but you'll be grateful for your guide who will show you historical remains and forgotten corners which serve as a reminder to a very surprising and fascinating past.

Prepare to be amazed by the pool where Charles Dickens 'took many a cold plunge', terrified by the Sweeney Todd, demon barber of Fleet Street, and fall in love once more at the 'wedding cake church'. After a mesmerising walk, you'll finish up at the quite beautiful ancient home of the Knights Templar.

Suitable for families, couples, intrepid explorers and people who have an inquisitive mind and keen interest in looking further than your average tourist.

Meet your guide in the afternoon in central London, then set off into the city to begin your walking tour. Widely considered among the world’s most exciting capital cities, London boasts famous landmarks, stylish districts, and centuries of colorful history.

During your tour, take in top London attractions including the Statue of Eros in Piccadilly Circus, the National Gallery, and Trafalgar Square. Admire the smart uniforms and sleek horses of the Queen’s famous Household Cavalry at Horseguards’ Parade, and capture the action on camera.

Stroll along Whitehall to number 10, Downing Street — the Prime Minister's address — and on to Parliament Square, home to key sites of interest such as Big Ben. Afterward, head on to historic Westminster Abbey, where your tour will come to an end.

Start the tour at Trafalgar Square, then make our way past the statue of two famous kings on the way towards the Horse Guards Parade Ground. Here you will eagerly wait in anticipation for the Household Cavalry, who will be involved in the Changing the Life Guard (Horse Guard) Ceremony which dates back over 350 years. You'll be amazed at how close you get to the horses and how magnificent the ceremony is.

You will then see the location of where a king was executed (a bust of his head marks the spot), then head off through the beautiful St James Park towards the Mall, home to many famous processions over the years, including Kate and William's wedding in 2011.

Now it is time to see the two operational royal palaces of central London - St James and Buckingham. Your guide will show you the balcony on which the death of the monarch is announced, the chapel in which Queen Victoria was married and Prince George baptized, as well as little inside tips to know if the Queen is in Buckingham Palace or not. 

The whole way around you'll be in safe hands with accredited and friendly guides who will leave you with a real understanding and appreciation of this most extraordinary of settings. 

Discover London's classic sights on this private 4-hour walking tour with a certified Blue Badge guide. You can customize this tour to your own personal interests, but it typically includes Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Chinatown, and Leicester Square, as well as a stroll through one of London's famous parks.

Meet your personal guide, certified under Britain's rigorous Blue Badge system, at your choice of time and location: a typical tour begins at Westminster.

Your first stop on this itinerary is Big Ben, the 19th-century clocktower that's a London icon: your guide will explain the history of both Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament as you admire their reflections in the waters of the Thames. From here, it's a quick stroll to Westminster Abbey, first built in the eleventh century, and still an icon of Gothic architecture.

Next, journey further into the heart of the British government as you pass Downing Street, home of the Prime Minister, and Horse Guards Parade. If you're lucky, you may see the Queen's personal cavalry on duty as you admire the glorious Palladian buildings.

Your guide will introduce you to war memorials and other state buildings as you stroll up to bustling Trafalgar Square. This is the home of Nelson's Column, topped with a statue of the admiral, picturesque fountains, and galleries that house some of the world's finest art.

Next, descend into the hubbub and buzz of Covent Garden, once home to a thriving fruit and vegetable market, and now a shopping, eating, and street theater mecca, and London's Chinatown. You'll continue to buzzy Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, perhaps London's answer to Times Square.

Return to serenity as you stroll down Piccadilly and through Green Park, one of London's prettiest historic parks: you'll find yourself at the gates of Buckingham Palace, home of the Queen. From here, your guide can either escort you to the tube or leave you to explore the public areas of the palace (own expense).

Many consider London's Borough Market to be the best market in Britain. While England may not be as famous for its produce as other countries, Borough Market is a wealth of fruits, veggies, and other English treats. During this 2.5-hour Borough Market Tour, led by a local chef or food writer, we'll dive into Borough to seek out some of the best local food.

• Led by a food historian or chef
• Small-group London food tours - 6 people max.
• Plenty of tasting and shopping opportunities

"My tummy was well pleased, but my brain was equally treated "

Borough Market Tour

Our Borough Market Tour will begin at Southwark Cathedral, where we will discuss the history of farming in the area and the significance of the Thames and London Bridge to the growth of trade. Following a look around the surroundings, we will dive into the market to talk about—and sample—the great number of foods on offer, from chocolate made by Italian monks to scallops dived off the Devon coast to exquisite truffle oils.

Looking for another gastronomic London experience? Try our London Food Tour.

We will also hear from experts at a few of the speciality shops and stalls, including Neal's Yard Dairy and Monmouth Coffee Company. Throughout our food tour, we will be able to discuss the renaissance of British food, the influence of international cultures on London's food scene, and much more. Depending on time and interest, we may end at a local pub for a drink to complete the experience.

Take Aways

Along the way, you will sample a range of British produce to experience the diversity and quality on the market. We will examine how all of these products fit into the British diet and other culinary traditions and philosophies. At the end of the walk, you will have gained a better understanding of food and trade in Britain throughout history, including modern issues such as local sourcing, and sustainability.

Booking our London Food Tour

Please note any food allergies or intolerances in the Notes box when booking. For private tours we are able, on certain days, to also add a visit to Maltby Street Market or Brixton Market.

You can read more about what it's like to be on our London food tours by taking a look at Travel On the Brain's post about this tour.

We offer a wide range of other London walking tours, including a Beer and Brewery Tour of London.

FAQ

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

During this tour we visit the market and meet some of the vendors. As the market can get quite busy during the weekend, we prefer visiting during the week or early in the morning. It's important to remember this is a place of trade.

Can I participate in your small group food walks if I have food allergies?

Yes. If you have any specific allergies/intolerances please indicate these in the Travel Notes section when your booking and your docent will do his or her best to accommodate. If you are booking privately, we can customize a route that will avoid such items, something that we cannot fully do on our small group walks.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but the majority of the market is covered. 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 food and anything else you feel like it may be relevant to customize your experience.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

No, the market is quite compact and we generally stay in the general vicinity of it. In case you decide to visit Maltby Street or Brixton market, we can decide in advance on modes of transportation.

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.

Meet your guide at 11am in central London, then head onward into the city to begin your 3-hour walking tour. Once home to successful film director Alfred Hitchcock, London boasts many sites and landmarks made famous on the silver screen.

During your walking tour, visit the location where Doris Day sings “Que Sera Sera” in the 1956 version of The Man Who Knew Too Much, and the site of Blaney`s Covent Garden pub from Frenzy.

Along the way, listen as your guide sheds light on the reasons Hitchcock used London in his movies, and admire the buildings and architecture for which the city is famous. After three hours exploring London, your walking tour will come to an end in the centre of the city.

London`s ancient food markets play an integral role in the development of the city.  In this three hour tour around three characteristic local street markets we look at the ways markets have changed, are changing and we consider prospects for survival.  The tour highlights not only the markets but the architecture of the markets and includes some of the most heroic architectural market gems by Fowler, Rose and others.

The tour also references traditional British food and drink and exposes visitors (who have never tasted fish and chips) to fresh local fish traditionally prepared.  The same goes for scones, jam and cream as well as the local brew (ale or lager)  The cockney traders too make for an interesting spectacle and we often catch traders hawking produce in the old way.  The tour aims to give visitors an insight into a London long past its sell-by date and just hanging in there before being completely expunged by gentrification and redevelopment.

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.

See where Jack the Ripper preyed on his victims while your guide runs through some of the suspects in this unsolved case. Scotland Yard even considered Queen Victoria's grandson, the Duke of Clarence, to be a suspect at one point! It's one of several stops along a ghost walk of London's most notorious haunts.

Your tour commences at your selected departure point with a drive on the darker side of London. Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox whisper headphones and listen to your guide describe each site. You will see Drury Lane, which is said to be the most haunted theater in London, and your guide will explain why! Next, visit the Old Bailey—a site of numerous public hangings—and 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.

Once in Whitechapel, disembark your motor coach and walk this death trail to inspect some of Jack the Ripper's murder sites, decipher the evidence and discuss the suspects. You'll even see the 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—you might need a drink (own expense) to calm your nerves after this enthralling ghost walk.

This 2-hour walking tour of London pubs promises drama, intrigue, and a fair amount of local history. Meet your guide near the Chancery Lane Underground Station and discover the oldest drinking establishments as you explore the winding streets and back alleys of the historic city center.

Visit where Dylan Thomas drunkenly misplaced his manuscripts, learn how Victorians fed their gin cravings, and stand in secret alleyways where one of England’s most notorious poets faced a duel. Learn about London’s seedy drink-obsessed past while taking in the splendor of modern-day London and sensing the ghosts of yesteryear at some of the city’s top landmarks.

Finish up at a watering hole regularly frequented by Charles Dickens, where you're served a favorite drink (half-pint of beer included).

Brixton Village is said to be the best place in London for tasting foods from all around the world. Here, you’ll find Europe, India, Asia, Africa, South America and the Caribbean all represented. There are cafés and restaurants dishing up all sorts of flavors, and shops that sell everything from charcuterie and cheese to traditional Chinese medicine. Eat and drink at markets, shops, bakeries, and restaurants.

Brixton is also home to the most unusual, exotic markets in London selling electronics, groceries, clothing and much more. Your guide will introduce you to world famous street art, a graffiti hall of fame and show you amazing murals from the 1980s as well as pointing out great music venues, that have transformed Brixton in to a proper Bohemian Village.

This tour is for small groups and is led by entertaining local guides who will make sure you eat and drink like kings but also educate you with stories that give you insights into the traditions and culture of one of London’s greatest neighborhoods. Brixton is also home to one of the largest beer gardens in South London where you will, of course, have a beer and shoot pool! 

What you can expect: Italian coffee, Rubens Empanadas and firery salsa, Grandma Roslyns Home baked goods and Grandpas freshly made juices (only Thursday-Saturday), Brian's Fish, Wings n Tings, Alessandros homemade Italian ice cream, and Brixton Breweries locally crafted beer.

This is not your normal history tour. Discover great cafes, bars, markets, graffiti hall off fame see a side of London like no other

Meet your guide at 9:30am in Trafalgar Square. First port of call is the delightful rose garden at the Artists Church, designed by Inigo Jones. Experience the Church itself as well, built in the Italian classical style. Due to its location in the West End, many artists. actors, singers and entertainers worshipped here. Hence its name.

Afterwards, walk through Covent Garden past the Opera House and over to nearby Lincoln's Inn Fields, possibly the largest square in all of London. Here we visit the fascinating John Soane Museum, home to the great Victorian architect. Much to see inside, notably his interior designs, ancient antiquities and Hogarth prints. Depart for the Inns of Court and their lovely hidden gardens within the Courts.

A taxi takes you over to the London Garden Museum, near Lambeth Palace. Lovely knot garden here as well as an opportunity to take a much-deserved tea/coffee break (own expense), sampling some of the home-made pastries on offer in the cafe. After the break, head for one of the highlights of the entire tour, the Chelsea Physic Garden. Take a local in-house tour of the Garden as you learn more about the medicinal uses of plants and flowers. After a leisurely visit here, head over to Kensington Palace and the Orangerie there, for a traditional English High Tea. Afterwards, we take time to visit the beautiful sunken garden. The tour normally completes here, with tour guests free to linger in the gift shop.

The tour starts at Charing Cross, in the Strand, right in the heart of London. A short walk leads you to the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. Hear how the Charing Cross commemorates an amazing royal wife, Eleanor of Castile (died 1290), and how the place used to mark the centre of London. It stands by the site of the factory where the 10 year old Charles Dickens was forced to work when family circumstances declined. Then, heading into Trafalgar Square, you’ll see and hear about the various statues of important historical figures, the Nelson’s column, the church of St.Martin in the Fields, the South Africa House and Canada House with its rooftop beehives. This is where Londoners march, make demonstrations and celebrations (especially in New Year’s Eve) and sing Christmas carols and so much more.

Then, enter the National Gallery which, with its 2,500 paintings is one of the richest and most important art collections in the world. Our highlights tour will give us a panorama of Western European art from the 1200s to the early 1900s. Your guide will cover all the major European schools of painting with masterpieces from Italy, the Low Countries, France, Britain, Germany and Spain.

You can tick many of the greatest artists off your list: Duccio, Giotto, Pisanello, Raphael, Leonardo, Michaelangelo, Titian and Caravaggio; Van Eyck, Van Der Weyden, Vermeer, Rembrandt, Reubens and Van Dyck; Claude, Poussin and some of the Impressionists; Hogarth, Reynolds, Gainsborough, Stubbs and Turner; Holbein, Cranach and Durer; Velasquez, Murillo and Goya.

Note:If any rooms are closed or particular artworks are away on loan, the guide will make an equally wonderful alternative selection of masterpiece paintings to show you.

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 the previous year. Its founding principle was to make works of art available to all, to educate working people and to inspire British designers and manufacturers. 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 guides of the United Kingdom. Your guide is 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 your guide will provide a brief explanation of the museum, after that you will access the museum, your guide will take you to the most important expositions. After 1.5 hours of the tour you will have free time to visit the museum by yourselves.

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.

This tour is a great chance to see street art before it goes, when the council remove it or a building is knocked down. On this tour you can also be among the first to see a piece of street art with new street artists popping up all the time. This really is a once in a lifetime opportunity to capture some amazing images from the best artists in London today.

This tour makes for an unforgettable London experience and is a must for anyone who loves art or adventure. Your guides live and work in the East End, so when you walk, you walk with the best.

You will be taught how to control your camera's settings to achieve top shots that professionals take during this 2- hour fun packed workshop. If you already know how to work your camera your guide will help you to achieve more. Or, if you have never used your camera before, your guide you assist you step by step; and by the end of the workshop you will feel confidence to try night photography by yourselves.

During the Westminster/Southbank/Piccadilly/Chelsea Bridge tour you will visits a minimum of four locations during the 2- hour workshop.
Please note workshops times change throughout the year in keeping with the UK Sunset times;  normally starting 1.5 hours after sunset.

Meet your guide at Piccadilly Circus in central London, and then set off on your walking tour, hearing about Sherlock Holmes – the fictional sleuth from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s late 19th-century stories. The escapades of the deerstalker-clad detective were so popular that film adaptations followed the books, and filming sites are now scattered around the capital.

See the place where the eccentric Sherlock Holmes first met Dr Watson – his loyal friend and adviser – and hear trivia about the 1979 thriller Murder by Decree, which featured the pair. Visit the Royal Academy building, which was used in the film, and stroll around some of the pubs and grand hotels that were mentioned in the books.

As your guide entertains you with insider gossip about Guy Ritchie’s 2009 film Sherlock Holmes, starring Robert Downey Junior, walk to the Diogenes Club – a fictional gentleman’s club where a strict no-talking rule was imposed. After stopping for photos outside, continue to Somerset House, to see the site that was used as Pentonville Prison in the film. While the grand Neo-Classical façade of the building couldn’t be more different to the real-life prison, your guide will bring scenes from the film to life with tales of the baddie who was held there – Lord Blackwood.

When your Sherlock Holmes tour of London is over, finish your tour on the Strand in central London.

Meet your guide at 2pm in central London, then stroll through the heart of the historic city to begin your 2-hour tour. Along the way, hear stories from London’s colorful past to the present day.

Discover the famous fountains and royal lions of Trafalgar Square, and learn the historic significance of Nelson’s Column. Gaze over top London landmarks including Big Ben and the National Gallery, both nearby, and see sides of the British capital many visitors miss.

Head onward through the center of Her Majesty’s Government — Whitehall and Downing Street — to Horse Guards Parade, where the Queen’s soldiers stand guard in their sentry boxes. In Parliament Square, capture beautiful views over the Houses of Parliament and the Palace of Westminster on camera.

Continue into bustling Covent Garden — where busy Londoners share the streets with curious visitors. Among the stone pillars, cobbled streets, and grand archways, discover stylish boutiques and traditional market stalls.

Then, visit a luxury hotel for a delicious English afternoon tea of scones, jam, clotted cream, sandwiches, and cakes — all served on fine china. At 4pm, when your afternoon tea comes to an end, conclude your tour in central London.

The Square Mile is not only the financial capital of the world, but also home to old pubs, ancient churches, bizarre ceremonies and an incredible 2000 years of history. During this tour you will hear about the devastating Great Fire of London, see a piece of the 12th century London Bridge and pass through some of the most atmospheric alleyways in the whole of London. The unique blend of ancient and modern is utterly compelling, seeing medieval churches nestled in among some of the most famous skyscrapers in the world.

This is a tour with an exciting and original twist. At each location you will be presented with three possible facts of which only two are true. This will bring out the competitive side of your character and will ensure a far more interactive and memorable experience as you try to work out which of these rather surprising stories of London's past are true and which are false.

This tour is ideal for couples, families and groups, a refreshing and really fun twist on your typical tour format.

Meet your guide in Fitzrovia in the afternoon, then start your tour with a traditional British pub quiz. Test your knowledge of Britain’s literary scene, then head onward through the City of London to further your knowledge.

During your tour, sample a selection of British beers (own expense) and meet a lifelike incarnation of Charles Dickens to hear what he has to say! Visit sites frequented by great 19th- and 20th-century poets and writers including Brendan Behan, Anthony Burgess, Karl Marx, George Orwell, Dylan Thomas, and Virginia Woolf.

Watch re-enactments of key moments in Britain’s literary history — such as the moment Dylan Thomas met his future wife Caitlin — and hear of the incidents and mishaps that shaped some of British literature’s most famous works.

Discover some of the places that have inspired more modern songwriters and artists like Paul McCartney and Damien Hirst, and enjoy book and poetry readings along the way. Afterward, finish your walking tour at The Coach and Horses pub in Soho, central London.

Constantly changing across time, London's topography and architectural elements are completely different from those of any other large European capital. This London Architecture Tour explores the diverse array of influences that have made endowed London with it's strikingly unique cityscape. Walking around the city in the company of our docent, an architectural historian, our discussion will span from the Norman times to cutting edge contemporary structures, offering a general introduction to the main periods and styles of London architecture.

• London Architecture Tour led by an architectural historian
• Small group—6 people max
• See the architectural landmarks of the city

London Architecture Tour

Our walk starts at St. Paul's, jewel of Christopher Wren and ideal start of our excursion (those with an interest in Christopher Wren should also consider our Christopher Wren Churches Tour). From here, we'll proceed to Temple Church, built by the Knights Templar in the 12th century. This church represents one of the best places to discuss Medieval London and the passage from Norman-Romanesque to Gothic architecture. Depending on opening times, we may then visit Prince Henry's Room or the Staple Inn, two of the few examples of Elizabethan and Jacobean timber-framed houses that survived the Great Fire of 1666. We may step inside the Staple Inn to see the great hall, a typical feature of medieval English houses and mansions. For the Jacobean period and the introduction of the Classical architectural language in London, we will then consider Lindsey House on Lincoln's Inn Field, the only surviving example of an ambitious house-building project and one of the first examples of land development in the West End.

Interested in more architecture? Try our Westminster Abbey Tour.

A Changing London

Depending on the day, and the interest of the group, we may circle back to the Square Mile, and discuss the effects of World War 2 on London's urban development. We could consider Brutalism, and the architecture of the Barbican Center, or the role of the City and the financial institutions in reshaping the skyline of London in the past 20 years. Alternatively, we could cross the lively area of Covent Garden and walk through the British Museum, where we will then reach Bloomsbury and, in particular, Bedford Square, one of the finest preserved examples of a mature Georgian square and a typical eighteenth-century attempt to reach perfect symmetry and uniformity in the planning of urban spaces.

Take Aways

At the end of our walk, we'll come away with a deeper understanding of London, its architecture and urban past and future development.

Read more about London's controversial architecture on our blog.

FAQ

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

We generally focus on the outside of buildings, but we do occasionally step inside churches or buildings that are relevant to the discussion. No advance tickets are required for these.

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 the exact mileage of the walk depends on the day and the interests of the group.

Where do we start? Where do we end?

We begin near St. Paul's, and end near Bedford Square. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point.

In 1666, the City of London burned to the ground. From the smoldering ruins of the city, the English architect Sir Christopher Wren designed and built St. Paul’s Cathedral and over fifty parish churches. On this three-hour Christopher Wren churches tour we'll visit several key buildings along with St. Paul's in the company of an architectural historian, and come away with a deep understanding of his impact on London and on architecture generally.

• See London through the eyes of Sir Christopher Wren
• Visit St. Paul's and many other Wren churches
• Led by an architecture historian
• Small groups, max 6 people

The Great Fire of London

On the night of 2 September 1666 the Great Fire of London started in a baker’s shop in Pudding Lane. Five days later, two-thirds of the medieval city as Shakespeare would have known it was smoldering rubble. The devastation was breathtaking: of the 107 old churches in the city, some 86 had burned to the ground or were damaged beyond recognition.

Churches of Christopher Wren

Within a week, Sir Christopher Wren stepped forward with plans to rebuild the city in a modern way: with piazzas, squares, and boulevards. In a classic compromise, his plans were rejected but Wren was made the architect of choice for redesigning St. Paul’s Cathedral and the city’s new parish churches. The steeples and spires he created for his new parish churches defined London’s skyline for centuries.

We will start our walk at St. Paul’s Cathedral, the centerpiece of Wren’s work in the City of London. We'll spend plenty of time here, looking at Wren's innovative work, and getting an understanding of what makes St. Paul's one of London's most important modern buildings. (Note, for a deeper look at St. Paul's we also offer a 3-hour St. Paul's Cathedral Tour that focuses only on the Cathedral.

After an hour at St. Paul's we'll move on into the heart of the city to discover several smaller, tucked away masterpieces. Our first stop will be the church of St. Vedast alias Foster, with its vicarage, former school room, and tiny burial ground so loved by Agatha Christie. We'll also stop by and explore the newly-restored garden of the blitzed Christchurch Greyfriars before ambling to one of Wren’s great creations, the elegant St. Lawrence Jewry, where his life and craftsmen are celebrated in a glorious glass window.

The Legacy of Wren

Our tour will take us to see other famous city churches, including St. Mary le Bow, famous for its bells (every Londoner born within the sound of the bells can call themselves a “Cockney”) and less famously for its eleventh-century crypt, part of which is a much-loved café. We may also include the beautiful St. Mary Aldermary, whose interior is unlike any other Wren church, or St. Stephen Walbrook, whose design is so awe-inspiring that its delighted parishioners gave Wren a gift of a hogshead of wine and some gold for his wife.

Take Aways

We'll come away with lovely stories like these as well as an ability to discern details of Wren architecture and appreciate his impact on architectural history. We'll also learn more about Wren as a historical figure and learn about the difficulties he faced and what inspired him to design churches of such infinite interest and contrasts.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins near St. Paul’s and ends near St. Stephen Walbrook. 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?

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.

Need to satisfy that runner's high, even on vacation? See the city and get some exercise on our London Running Tour, a custom jaunt with one of our expert guides (and ardent runners). We'll take in the sights after strapping on our running shoes and venturing out on a leisurely-paced jog, catching some of London's most beautiful sites while getting our morning exercise.

• London Running Tour
• Led by an expert (who is also a runner)
• Private tour customized to your interests and location

London Running Tour

While this London Running Tour lasts two hours (more or less), the idea is to mix touring with running by making numerous stops along the way. We generally begin at your hotel, meaning the course varies depending on which highlights are nearby. However, in general, we will design a course that visits some major sites, with an eye toward those that are most exhilarating on a jog.

The experience is highly customizable, so to match your pace, level of fitness and interests. We try to include one or two parks as part of the run (Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are our favorites), but we are open to your suggestions and requests.

Take Aways

At the end of the run you will feel energized and will have experienced London as a local, discovering some of London's best running paths while visiting some of the city's highlights before the crowds arrive.

For a different way to see London's Royal Parks, take a look at our London Parks and Palaces Tour. Or, to further delve into the area around Kensington Gardens, see our London City Tour of Kensington and Knightsbridge.

FAQ

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

Generally we don't go into any site during this tour, however we can customize the run to include a stop or two. What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent may modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. Appropriate gear is recommended.

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?

Yes, during the tour we generally cover between 6 and 8 miles. The pace of the run can be adjusted based on your preferences.

The third decade of the twentieth century saw the lush North London suburb of Hampstead become a hub both for modern, experimental architects and controversial psychoanalysts. This Hampstead Tour will explore some of the most significant locations in the story of this peculiarly-Hampstead, yet internationally-significant brand of modernism, visiting sites ranging from the Isokon Building, a one-time commune and modernist masterpiece, and discussing the intellectuals that gave Hampstead its distinct character.

Alternative, trendy, and recently gentrified, London’s East End is one of the most vibrant and exciting areas in town – Subculture Tours is ready to help you discover what has become known as the greatest open air gallery in the world. Street Art and Graffiti has taken the world by storm with cities around the globe annually hosting Street Art/Graffiti festivals but London’s East End is where every artists wants to paint.

Subculture Tours are ready to invite you into a world that has been closed to the general public for many years.

This tour has been designed by a very active member of the Graffiti scene in London. He helps create art districts in London by speaking to owners of properties and taking control of those walls and invites street artists to paint beautiful colourful murals in run down neighbourhoods which helps generate a better economy for the people of that district.

Other achievements he was filmed for American TV show Entertainment tonight where he was approached by Hollywood movie actor Josh Duhamel (Transformers) to take him on a guided tour of Graffiti and Street art in Shoreditch finishing with a workshop.

We start the day by taking a bike ride through an industrial graffiti area set along canals and river paths taking in some amazing street art and graffiti. You cycle through the East End of London avoiding any major roads taking in the scenery and scouting for fresh street art pieces. We end up in Shoreditch where we drop the bikes off and explore on foot.

On the two hour walk you will be introduced to world famous, local and up and coming artists showcasing different styles and using different techniques, Spray paint, pasteups, stickers, fire extinguishers, installations, futuristic, drip art, X-ray Graffiti, Wildsyle letters, throwups, tags.

We break for lunch in an old Brewery where there are cafes and food trucks.

We now make are way by tube to the Graffiti workshop where a carefully handpicked team of artists will help you unleash the vandal within.

The artists are all very patient and great with people and conduct themselves in a professional manner. You will learn about tagging, throwups, masterpieces and character work

Next we introduce you to using spray paint where you will learn about can control and pressure practicing drawing straight lines circles, squares to help you feel confident with the can.

Once we think you are ready we shall demonstrate the process of sketching, filling and outlining.

We want you to be proud of what you do so we do not rush the workshop.

We finish the day by celebrating with a beer/wine.

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?

As you walk around the stylish cultural melting-pot of Shoreditch, active street artist Karim will draw your attention to specific pieces of notable artwork. He is extremely knowledgeable about his craft, and will give you a general overview of the history and culture of street art in London, as well as answering any questions you may have. A hot topic for discussion on this tour will be how artists tread the line between commercial success and ‘keeping it real’, as more and more underground work is absorbed into the mainstream.

From the moment your guide (Karim) landed in London from Zimbabwe, Karim was drawn to the city’s graffiti and street art scene. Studying the people and styles that define it, he found himself powerless to resist, and his art can now be seen adorning walls across the capital. His expertise on the subject is also much in demand, and he has conducted highly regarded workshops and tours for clients that include the BBC.

Karim’s enthusiasm is infectious, and it springs from a background in architecture – something that is evident in the “insane knowledge” that he imparts during your time with him. He has certainly inspired us to look closer at the amazing array of urban interventions across the capital. “Street art in London is always in flux,” he says, “and it is a wonderful cacophony of colour and characters.” Join on this tour and fine-tune your eye on the street.

A focal point for graffiti writers and street artists, east London gives a snapshot of a movement that’s evolving day by day. Given its proximity to the City, rich cultural history and status as the UK’s tech hub, it’s easy to see why it’s such a fertile setting.

On a walk round the neighbourhood, active street artist Karim will uncover the many layers of urban art that have appeared on the district’s walls – some obvious, some hidden – and introduce the key players and notable pieces. A hot topic for discussion on this SideStory Experience will be how artists tread the line between commercial success and ‘keeping it real’, as more and more underground work is absorbed into the mainstream.

On this tour you will see the following:
Famous photo locations including: The Beatles Abbey Road crossing, David Bowie Ziggy Stardust album cover [back and front], The Oasis album cover [back and front], The Beatles in Rupert Court, The Rolling Stones in Denmark Street, and The Kinks in Soho.

Pubs and clubs: The world famous Marquee Club, the pub where Brian Jones held the first Rolling Stones audition, the pub where The Rolling Stones were discovered, the adult club where David Bowie did his very first paid show, the club where Paul met Linda and The Mod club that inspired The Kinks’ You Really Got Me.

Recording Studios: The Beatles’ and Pink Floyd’s Abbey Road Studios, the studio where The Rolling Stones recorded their debut LP, the Soho studio where David Bowie, Genesis, Carly Simon, Queen, Elton John, Lou Reed, and The Beatles all recorded their biggest hits.

You will also get to see the record shop that Elton John worked in, the coffee bar that started British Rock n Roll, the court that Mick Jagger, Keith Richard and Johnny Rotten ‘visited’, where David Bowie parked his converted Second Word War ambulance, The Beatles’ Rooftop Concert building, Where David Bowie and Mick Jagger bought their dresses, the 60s coffee shop that sparked David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona and the luxury top floor apartment where The Sex Pistols played their very first show.

Your Viator VIP London tour starts at the Tower of London, which you'll enter before the public opening. Meet your guide as well as one of the tower’s Beefeater guards who will personally show you around. The formidable 11th-century tower was built to act as a fortress, palace and prison — terrifying Londoners and foreign invaders alike. Watch the historic opening ceremony, where members of the military escort march around the tower with the Beefeaters to open it for business.

On your tour of the tower, see the Crown Jewels — a dazzling collection of jewels and diamonds that are still used today by the Queen. Stroll along the East Wall Walk for a bird’s-eye view of the city streets, explore the White Tower, and see the ravens that have lived here since the reign of King Charles II. The superstitious king believed the tower would fall if the birds left.

Next, walk to nearby St Paul’s Cathedral, the much-cherished architectural icon that’s home to the Triforium, an area typically closed to the public but open to you! Standout features include the Dean’s Staircase (featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban) and a medieval library. See both, and then marvel at the vertigo-inducing views toward the nave. In addition to the Triforium, visit the Whispering Gallery and Crypt, too. Your experience then finishes here.
Please note: The visit to the Crown Jewels is not guided.

Meet your guide near Trafalgar Square in London, and then set off on your 3-hour pub tour of London’s West End. Popular for centuries as the cultural heart of London, the West End is thronged with theaters, restaurants and galleries; no surprise then, that a thriving pub scene generated within it, and its historic pubs from bygone days are still every bit as popular today.

Start with a visit to a traditional 'boozer' near Trafalgar Square and soak up the ambiance of an authentic London ale house, serving beers, ales and ciders on tap. As you relax inside, your guide will regale you with insider secrets about some of the monuments nearby, like Nelsons Column – the impressive structure in the center of Trafalgar Square.

After sampling some of the pubs hearty ales, continue your tour with a stroll to Covent Garden – one of London’s most beautiful squares, with a bustling marketplace in the center. Many visitors head straight for the tourist pubs here, but your guide will introduce you to two of the best local pubs, just hidden down side streets, away from the hustle and bustle. Enjoy a traditional snack inside one of them, and hear about the history and culture of beer drinking in the UK and Europe, as well as the ingredients used in different beers like hops and wheat.

Continue to the heart of London’s ‘theatreland’ in Soho, passing iconic London venues like the Adelphi and the Shaftsbury Theatre, and then head inside a pub that’s popular for pre-show drinks. Hear about the city's impressive performing arts and music scene in this world-famous theater district while sitting back and sipping on another ale.

Your tour finishes at a pub in Seven Dials – the center point of London’s vibrant West End. Savor your last tipple of the tour and get recommendations about other great London pubs to visit independently!

Make your own way to Marylebone Railway Station in central London to meet your expert guide. Then, hop inside the air-conditioned coach and settle into your comfortable seat to begin your tour of Paddington Bear’s London.

As you travel, hear tales of this lovable bear who arrived in London more than 50 years ago after his Aunt Lucy went into The Home for Retired Bears in Lima. Learn how he left deepest, darkest Peru and stowed away in a ship’s lifeboat, living on marmalade.

Following in Paddington’s pawprints, your first stop is Mr Gruber’s antiques shop on Portobello Road. Mr Gruber is Paddington's closest friend and the accident-prone bear goes to him every day for advice as well as for his elevenses, a mid-morning tea tradition that dates back to the Victorian era. On route to the shop, walk through the famous Portobello Market. Soak up the vibrant atmosphere as you pass the many stalls, crammed with antiques, clothes and more.

Afterward, return to your coach and leave the hustle and bustle of the market behind you as you head off of the beaten track to find some of London’s lesser-known and most picturesque spots. Stopping off frequently to stretch your legs, take photos and see Paddington locations up close, listen to your guide talk about some of Paddington’s greatest adventures, and discover how the movie was made.

Then, continue on to the Windsor Gardens filming location. See the home of Paddington Bear and the Brown family, who took Paddington home with them after finding him in London’s Paddington Station with a note attached to his coat reading: ‘Please look after this bear, thank you.’

Lastly, visit the place that our furry friend is named after, Paddington Railway Station. Here, look out for the bronze statue of Paddington Bear on the concourse, and then spend some time at the Paddington shop, where you can choose to buy souvenirs for yourself or your friends and family.

Your tour then concludes at the station.

After meeting your guide in central London, set off on your Doctor Who tour of the city. While much of the everyday filming for the sci-fi series took place in Cardiff, many iconic Doctor Who scenes were filmed on the streets of England’s capital. See a selection of the best while exploring neighborhoods like Borough, Southwark, the City of London and the South Bank.

As you walk, your guide will entertain you with fun snippets of trivia about the intergalactic time lord, who travels back in time exploring the universe. Learn about his TARDIS – the 1960s-style London police box used as a time-traveling machine – and hear about key characters such as Clara Oswald and Madam Vastra.

Visit sites used recently like Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, which featured in The Shakespeare Code episode, as well as filming locations from older episodes such as Remembrance of the Daleks, filmed in 1988. Stop for photos in John Adams Street, where the Prime Minster's house was recreated for the show and recollect the episode when the iconic building was infiltrated by the ruthless Slitheens – a family of criminal extraterrestrials from the planet Raxacoricofallapatorius.

Hear insider gossip about the cast, learning little-known secrets about actors who have played the coveted role of the Doctor. Chat about popular faces like Matt Smith, David Tenant and Christopher Eccleston, and compare them with earlier actors such as William Hartnell who starred in the first-ever episode.

Having explored the key filming sites around London, work your way to Westminster Station where your tour finishes.

After meeting your guide near Spitalfields, set off on your stroll around the area to learn about east London’s food scene and culinary heritage. Culturally diverse, with London’s largest immigrant population, the east London area has its own distinct cuisine influenced by the different nationalities who live there. Sample a total of ten popular local dishes as you explore; highlights are as described below.

Start with a traditional British breakfast staple – the humble bacon sandwich – at St John Bread and Wine, a meat-specialist restaurant that’s become a local institution. Then, step back in time with a visit to the English Restaurant to sample its legendary bread pudding.

Wander over to Androuet, one of London’s top cheese producers, to sample artisan British cheeses, and then enjoy a leisurely amble north to Poppies – a proper East End chippy— for a portion of fish and chips, wrapped in newspaper.

Head back toward Spitalfields and stroll down Brick Lane, Britain's undisputed curry capital that's home to Indian food shops and curry restaurants galore. Head inside Aladin, your guide’s favorite eatery, and sample Bangladeshi and Indian specialties while learning how curry has become Britain’s national dish. Then, wander into the heart of the East End’s Shoreditch to visit Beigel Bake, one of the most famous bagel shops this side of the Atlantic. Chow down on one of their salted beef bagels, and you’ll quickly realize how they made it onto Time Out London’s ‘100 Best Dishes in London’ list.

Your final visit is to another historical English restaurant where you'll try a salted caramel tart to finish on a sweet-tasting high note! Your tour then finishes in the heart of Shoreditch, near Pizza East.

Think of Soho, and you’ll likely think of the most buzzing, fast-paced, vibrant night spot in London. Historically home to the Swinging 60s, London’s jazz scene, theater land, the rag trade, and the oldest profession (we don’t need to spell that one out, do we?), Soho has reincarnated itself dozens of times. Now it’s where you’ll meet with some of the most exciting international foodie finds in London.

The evening food tour takes you away from the tourist traps to the cafes, restaurants and shops that are truly shaping the city’s culinary reputation. Explore Soho’s best-kept secrets on this tour, your guide will redefine what you think of British cuisine. The area’s international influences are so diverse that you’ll try everything from Spanish Jamón to Chinese dumplings. As this food tour takes place in the evening, you’ll experience the true Soho vibe. Cancel your dinner reservations and join this tour for an unforgettable evening of food, stories, and fun.

Experience two top London sights and one of Britain's best traditions on this full-day combo tour. Visit Westminster Abbey; get an inside look at Buckingham Palace, the Queen's official London residence; and watch the Changing of the Guard, a wonderful display of British pageantry. Then, cap your day with an indulgent afternoon tea at a luxury London hotel.

Meet your guide by the column opposite the west entrance of Westminster Abbey, one of the world’s greatest churches and the site of royal coronations for 1,000 years.

Step inside this 700-year-old monument for a guided tour highlighting its most important and fascinating features. Learn how the abbey is a significant structure in British history, welcoming kings, queens and statesmen, and playing host to state funerals and royal weddings — most recently the marriage William and Kate.

Next, follow your guide to see the Changing of the Guard. Depending on the day, you'll either watch the ceremony at Buckingham Palace or at House Guards Parade. Your guide will make sure you’re in a prime position to get the best views and regale you with details on the history and pageantry behind this beloved event. Please note: In heavy rain, the Changing of the Guard does not take place.

After a break for lunch (own expense), it’s time to visit Buckingham Palace, the residence of Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, for an audio-guided tour. See the balcony where the royal family appears during major events, and hear stories of intruders and princes scaling the walls to get both inside and out. Then, separate from your guide and head inside to see the magnificent State Rooms, which are only open to the public for two short months out of the entire year.

Join back up with your guide, and then end the day with a sumptuous afternoon tea. Savor delicious scones topped with jam and clotted cream, a selection of sandwiches and cakes, and a pot of fresh tea, all served on fine china in the magnificent setting of a traditional London luxury hotel.

Meet your guide in the heart of Soho and start with a brief introduction to the area to learn a little about its fascinating past. London is a buzzing metropolis boasting a blend of different districts, and so what better way to experience it than by sampling its varied cuisine? Soho is one of London’s oldest and most vibrant areas, a veritable melting pot of different cultures. For food lovers it’s a real highlight.

Stroll along Carnaby Street, passing its quirky shops and clothing boutiques, and then make your first stop at a trendy little breakfast venue, popular with in-the-know Londoners. Relax over a British breakfast tasting, then — with your hunger sated — continue your tour.

Amble past many of Soho’s famous landmarks including theaters, clubs and bars, and listen to your guide point out the highlights of the neighborhood. The restaurant scene is remarkably diverse, and the cuisines of Mexico, Italy, India, Korea, Taiwan and Japan are all represented around the charming streets and alleyways. Engage with restaurateurs and cafe owners, and sample a selection of treats as you go.

Please note that "Tour A" falls Tuesday, Friday and Saturday and "Tour B" on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Tour A and Tour B have different menus.

Menu A and B feature a variety of stops. Discover the first Brazilian Temakeria in London, taste delicious chocolate, explore bustling Chinatown, taste a homemade Margherita, dive into homemade gelato with dessert wine, and many other amazing stops.

Tour A finishes up with a visit to Gordon’s Wine Bar, while Tour B concludes in an Italian restaurant near Covent Garden.

You will walk through the same streets that Jack The Ripper famously prowled, as you stop in a variety of different tasting locations.

We start the tour with an "intro to Whitechapel" drink, followed by an exploration of the dark streets of the East End, where you will go behind the scenes of the famous Victorian year, 1888.

On the tour, you will taste of old-fashioned Gin a gin master who has one of London's largest collections. Afterwards, you will dig into some local BBQ MEAT, as only a butcher would, before visiting Spitalfield’s market and have a wine-tasting accompanied with nibbles. From Spitalfield’s Market, you will head over to Brick Lane, as you discover one of the East End’s most famous streets. It is there that we will finish our adventure, with a luscious lasting of homemade, gourmet African Chocolate.

There’s no better way to spend Sunday than eating your way around the Soho on a cultural walking tour. With all of Soho's incredible places, this tour offers an excellent exploration of the amazing array of delicious flavours in and around Soho.

This tour begins with a fabulous breakfast at a sustainable British restaurant in the semi-hidden Kingly Court – just off of the famous Carnaby Street. After breakfast, you will enjoy a colourful walk through some of Soho’s oldest and most charming streets, eating your way from one interesting international destination to another.

Soho is filled with pubs, bakeries, bars, restaurants and coffee shops. This small borough bordering with some of London’s most famous shopping streets like Oxford and Regent Street is always at the forefront in trends - and one thing never lacking, is food.

From traditional flavours to some of the newest fusions in the city, Soho is the place to learn about London’s incredible International Food scene. Our London food tour of Soho’s International cuisine is an exploration of this neighbourhood’s diverse and historical richness.

Our 3.5-Hour food and cultural walking tour will take you through Soho’s charming historical streets, as you discover a wide variety of International Foods from some of our favourite places.

London offers numerous choices for eating out , some good and some not so good. Food tours are the perfect way to discover a city, and our food tour was created to bring you the international flavours of Soho. You will discover high-quality, authentic eateries that the locals love, and learn how to avoid flashy food traps-which are generally very low quality and often more expensive.

This tour aims to give you the local feel of Soho and all it has to offer. Soho folklore is rich with colourful stories of writers, poets, artists and historical figures. Anyone can simply walk around Soho and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere. We want to show you other features of Soho that are not always visible to the eye.

Your expert food guide will bring you to the places that have a story and a heart. Places that are not only appreciated by the locals, but special places that you will remember.

Every destination that we chose for the tour, were places that left “US” speechless and very impressed. And most importantly, we want you to walk away with an experience that you will remember and taste again and again.

The theme of this tour in Soho is “international foods”, because Soho is considered one of London’s oldest multicultural areas.  Immigrants moved in, and Soho initially became known as London’s “French Quarter”. Most foreigners that came to London, found cheap housing in Soho, and brought with them their incredible cuisines. Amidst the music halls, small theatres and brothels, these immigrants opened up cheap “eating-houses” all over the neighbourhood, making it the “in” place to eat for intellectuals, writers and artists, to find delicious international cuisine.

Your exploration of Soho will bring to life layer upon layer of Soho’s rich history, and highlight the cultures that have created so many of London’s diverse foods – often Soho being the first place to find them.

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

From scotch eggs and creamed violets to jellied eels and exceptional ales, traditional British food can be a mystery for most visitors to London. On this 3-hour London Food Tour, led by a local chef or food writer, we will cover a wide swath of the city using our stomachs to guide us. Along the way we'll meet shop owners, taste artisanal products, and learn how London has become a culinary mecca that never fails to surprise.

• London Food Tour led by food anthropologists and chefs
• Visits Fortnum & Mason, Soho, and Neal's Yard
• Small groups—max 6 people
• Includes tastings

London Food Tour

This walk is a great way to see some of the most famous neighborhoods of London from a different perspective—your belly's! In the company of a food historian, chef, or other expert in gastronomy we generally start out near Green Park and the quintessential British food oasis: Fortnum & Mason. This is a great place to begin as English gastronomic tradition abounds inside Fortnum's hallowed walls. We will pay extra attention to the artistry of the cuisine and the aesthetics of the display, while taking in the history of this institution—all while tasting some local favorites, like scotch eggs and violet creams (the Queen’s favorite!).

Cheesemongers of London

From there, we will pay visits to the nearby Paxton & Whitfield's cheese shop, the oldest in London. Here we'll delight our palates with local cheeses specifically selected for us, while one of Paxton and Whitfield’s trained cheesemongers explains the history of British cheese and the variety of regional cheeses. From here we may proceed to one of London's historic chocolate shop, inspiration for Roald Dahl's Chocolate Factory, or discover the new generation of chocolatiers and their alchemic inventions.

We will then weave up to Soho and the lovely, family-run Lina Stores deli with beautifully displayed cured meats, cheeses, and fresh pastas on Brewer Street, before heading to Old Compton Street to pass by the overwhelming Gerry's Alcohol Emporium, piled high with rare and exotic spirits, and the aromatic Algerian Coffee Store, with an astounding variety of coffees and teas.

International Cuisine in London

In the 20th century, Soho was populated by newly settled immigrants and inexpensive ethnic restaurants that catered to a diverse Bohemian population, made up of artists and musicians, as well as notorious gangsters, prostitutes, and others. While the area is now one of the most fashionable in London, you still witness remnants of its past intermingled with the diversity of small restaurants from all over the world…some of which we will visit during our walk.

Want to further explore London's gastronomy? Try our Borough Market Tour.

Dipping down into Chinatown, we discuss London's international cuisine, while tasting freshly made dumplings or authentic Sri Lankan Pol Sambol. We may brave Leicester Square and make our way into Covent Garden, where we will discuss the area's history as a fruit and vegetable market. Alternatively, we might pop in for some gelato at Gelupo our way to the Seven Dials area of London, where we can find some hidden treasures like Monmouth Coffee, Homeslice, and Neal’s Yard Dairy, with an unexpected Bohemian-inspired courtyard.

Take Aways

Whether you are a serious foodie or just like to eat, this walk will help you discover the secret corners of London and the coexistence of a centuries-old culinary tradition with an incredibly international food scene. Most importantly, it will help you debunk the myth that London as a culinary wasteland.

Thirsty? Try our beer and brewery tour, led by a food anthropologist with ample experience in the brewing industry.

FAQS

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins in the Piccadilly neighborhood and typically ends in Covent Garden. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

Can I participate in your small group food walks if I have food allergies?

Yes. If you have any specific allergies/intolerances please indicate these in the Travel Notes section when your booking and your docent will do his or her best to accommodate. If you are booking privately, we can customize a route that will avoid such items, something that we cannot fully do on our small group walks.

Is this walk good for kids?

Yes. Children love trying new food and they really enjoy learning about the city through food. If your kids are under 13, we strongly recommend booking the walk privately, so we can better adjust the walk to their taste and interests.

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.

Pubs and beer are a symbol of British society and tradition as much as tea and cakes and fish and chips. But beyond the stereotypes, do you know what lies behind the tradition of beer and pubs? This 3-hour London Beer and Brewery Tour offers a new perspective and appreciation of beer as we enjoy ample tastings at various pubs and breweries located in the East End London area. Led by a trained food anthropologist with expertise in the beer and brewing industry, we’ll focus on the history of brewing in London, highlighting beer’s evolution from a dietary staple, to the almost lost tradition of cask ales, to today’s renaissance of craft beer and brewing.

• Small group walks of no more than six people.
• London Beer and Brewery Tour led by food anthropologist and beer expert.
• Taste beer in micro-breweries and local pubs

London Beer and Brewery Tour

Our walk, led by a food anthropologist and beer expert, travels through the hip East End of London (also the subject of our London East End Tour), stopping in at a select group of breweries, pubs and beer bars like the Crown and Shuttle and Brewdog, allowing us to become Londoners for a few hours. The exact stops and presentation will vary depending on the docent and group; we may visit what was once the largest brewery in the country, known today as Truman, Hanbury, and Buxton, and discuss the history of brewing in London. Here we can also learn about the history of the East End of London more generally, and how it has changed over time, noting how the culinary and cultural landscape has shifted with the arrival of new immigrants and social groups.

An Art Reemerges

We will discuss the reemergence of brewing, the recent craft beer movement, and the ways in which brewers are experimenting with old recipes to reinvent, redefine, and recreate traditional beer styles. We may also stop in one of London's top gastropubs. Here we'll discuss the pairing of beer and cheese, while sampling some traditional British cheeses along with other specialties.

Take Aways

Along the way, we will sample a range of British and local beers to experience the diversity of the country’s brewing industry. We will examine how all of these products fit into the British diet, along with other culinary traditions and philosophies. At the end of the walk, we will have gained an understanding of the significance of beer in British history, including its contribution to diet, its social status, and the decline and rebirth of the brewing industry in England.

Booking Instructions

Please note any food allergies or intolerances in the Notes box when booking.

Food enthusiasts, we suggest you also take a look at our London Food TourLondon Food Tour.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

Generally speaking, the walk begins and ends in the Shoreditch neighborhood. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24 hour phone number for any last minute issues.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine. There is some walking in between pubs, but the vast majority of this tour takes place indoors.

Can children join this tour?

The legal drinking age in the UK is 18. Under 18s are allowed on private bookings, but they can not drink.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

This walk covers less than 1 mile overall. There are plenty of opportunities to sit, and use the bathroom if needed. One of the bars we visit only has a bathroom on second floor, which requires walking up a flight of stairs. The other bars have ground floor bathrooms.

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.

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.

A Segway Rally provides people of all ages with a fun and exciting Segway experience!  As you take to the various terrains of the Windsor Rally tracks you will master the skills of a Segway as you use your weight to navigate the twists and turns of your chosen Segway Rally course. An activity like no other, your Segway Rally experience will provide you with a fantastic and unforgettable ride! This Segway adventure for two is a great experience for all ages valid at 14 locations nationwide. 

This is valid for a 60-minute experience which includes safety briefing, training session, safety equipment, time to test your Segway skills and a complimentary certificate.

Height and weight restrictions apply so please ensure you are over 134 cm tall and your weight exceeds 45 kg but is under 117 kg.

Enjoy a day away from the city with this wonderful bike tour of Windsor and surrounding areas. Upon arrival, get on your bikes and set off on a leisurely, traffic free eight-mile (13 km) cycle through the country lanes, historic houses and cottages of the Thames Valley. Stop for a short break at the Tudor mansion of Dorney Court, dating back to 1440, before cycling to the 2012 Olympic Rowing Lake.

Continue along the river, taking in the majesty of Windsor Castle before pedalling on to educators for 19 British Prime Ministers and the oldest school in the world - Eton College.

The cycle ends by the River Thames with easy access back to the train station or towards the castle. This bike tour makes the perfect countryside escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city life.

Your journey starts at Gabriel’s Wharf, conveniently located a stone’s throw away from Waterloo station.

Equipped with a bike, your guide will lead you across Blackfriars Bridge and onto Victoria Embankment along the East-West Cycle Superhighway, London’s latest exciting initiative to improve cycle safety.

Stop first at the boundary of the City of London and the Metropolitan capital, and hear why the river became slimmer in the 1800s.

Then head to Cleopatra’s Needle for spectacular riverside views of the Southbank with its iconic London Eye. Cycle right under Elizabeth Tower, with Big Ben towering over you.

Stop next in Parliament Square for views of Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster right under the gaze of Winston Churchill, before heading off to Buckingham Palace — via St. James’s Park — in time to catch the Changing of the Guard. If you're lucky, the royal standard flag will be raised and you may catch a glimpse of the Queen as she takes up residence in her office.

From here, it’s straight to Trafalgar Square to see Lord Nelson on his pedestal, guarded by bronze lions not far from elegant fountains, before continuing to the cobbled streets of Covent Garden, an area renowned for its high-quality restaurants and street performers.

Then pedal towards London's oldest quarter, as you enter the heart of the legal district, making your way past Lincoln's Inn Fields. Follow the old cattle routes to Smithfield Market to learn more about its turbulent past and gruesome medieval tales.

Afterward, take a moment to admire St. Paul’s Cathedral before crossing over Blackfriars Bridge and heading back to the wharf.

Capture the magic of one of the world's great cities by night on this 3-hour bicycle tour of London. Pedal along the River Thames, passing Tower Bridge, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and more. See Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square lit up in lights, before cruising through the vibrant nightlife of Covent Garden and Chinatown.

You'll meet your guide at 3:30pm during the winter months or 7pm during spring and summer at Gabriel's Wharf on the South Bank of the Thames, near Waterloo station. Don your helmet, lights, and high-visibility jacket, and hop aboard your trusty steed, then follow your guide into a journey across London by night.

First, you'll pedal east to the iconic Tower Bridge, and into London's historic docklands, and the refurbished St. Katherine's Dock. Then it's time to head into the City of London: you'll pass the mighty dome of St. Paul's Cathedral, the pedestrian-only Millennium Bridge, and the vast Tate Modern art gallery.

Stop for a quick drink at the Founders Arms pub, right on the river, and marvel at the City of London's towering skyline reflected in the still waters of the Thames. This is also a great opportunity to capture photos.

Cruise along the river to the London Eye, then pedal across Westminster Bridge to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, all dressed up in lights for the evening. After the Houses of Parliament, see the imposing Gothic towers of Westminster Abbey, the venue for many a royal wedding over the years.

Leaving the river behind, cut into town. Admire the grand government buildings on Horse Guards Parade and the landmark Admiralty Arch, before cutting up to Trafalgar Square to see Nelson's Column, the fountains, and a piece of modern art. Finally, it's into Covent Garden and Chinatown, where you'll make your way past rickshaws and taxis as you absorb the evening's street theater.

From here, it's a quick 2.3-mile (3.7-kilometer) cycle back to Gabriel's Wharf, where you'll return your bikes and protective gear.

Your tour focuses its attention on the east of the city, heading out towards the old docklands and back through London town. This carefully chosen route gives you a local's knowledge of London’s power house. Your journey starts with a ride to the old Bankside power station, now home to Tate Modern Art Gallery. A few doors down from there is the New Globe Theatre, a beautiful, curvaceous replica of an Elizabethan theatre made famous by William Shakespeare.

Next you’ll be taken to Borough Market, one of London’s largest and oldest food markets, offering a selection of the city's best street food and fresh local produce.Then, provided there are no ships passing through, you’ll be off to cross the picture-postcard Tower Bridge, all the while taking in the spectacular London skyline with its newly iconic skyscrapers (the Gherkin, the Walkie Talkie and the Cheesegrater among them).

From there, it's a ride along the river to the old Dockyards, an atmospheric maze of warehouses and alleyways, including a quick stop at Captain Kidd, a waterside pub.

Starting to head back west to what used to be less affluent industrial land, you'll see how the area has been transformed into a destination for young designers and their businesses.Then it's to the Square Mile, London’s financial district. Passing through a bedrock of institutions such as Lloyd’s of London, the Royal Exchange and Mansion House - each of them a delight for architecture enthusiasts.

Last stop is Sir Christopher Wren's unrivalled masterpiece, St Paul's Cathedral. Your guide will then lead you back to the Wharf along Carter Lane one of the cities beautiful hidden secrets.

London pulses with a creativity like no other. Boasting a rich and diverse history of statesmen, artists with spectacular and influential imaginations, there’s no better way to whet your appetite, for what’s on offer than to take a relaxing tour through the West End. Discover some of the city’s theatrical and culturally significant sights and let pure poetry stir in your heart beneath the boughs of handsome tree-lined cycle paths.

This tour is a relaxed tour through the West End exploring some of the city’s most theatrical, artistic and culturally significant sights. On the way you'll pass along handsome tree-lined streets and through some of the city's most charming parks.

The journey begins at Gabriel's Wharf and throws you straight into the quaint 1830s red-brick lined streets of Waterloo as you make your way towards The Cut. First stop is the Old Vic Theatre, one of London’s oldest and most loved theatres. Across the road – Lower Marsh, a market street that’s a favourite of filmmakers and full of listed buildings housing lunchtime cheap eats and hip cafés. Turning right, you’ll explore a hidden underground tunnel, (sometimes known as Banksy Tunnel) a unique area filled with ever-changing street art.

Next stop is Archbishop's Park, a secluded green area of tranquility that backs onto Lambeth Palace, the home of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Crossing the river, you are transported back in time as you arrive at the courtyard of Westminster Abbey School, which offers a privileged view of Westminster Abbey and some of its hidden quarters.

From there it’s a short ride to Horse Guard’s Parade, a historic sporting ground where Henry VIII once hosted jousting tournaments, followed by a pedal through Hyde Park, Henry’s private hunting ground, before Buckingham Palace was built.

Up next is Mayfair, an area associated with luxury shops, galleries and exclusive clubs. Passing along Carnaby Street, still known today as the centre of 60s Swinging London, it’s then onto Soho, a favourite haunt of the mods and hippies of the same era, and the stomping ground of British bands like The Rolling Stones.

As the tour draws to a close, you’ll cycle to Covent Garden – London’s Theatreland. Finally, it’s back across Waterloo Bridge, before returning to where it all began, hungry for your next London adventure.

Take a scenic 3-hour bike ride around the beautiful grounds of Hampton Court Palace* with this fun guided tour along a gentle eight mile (13 km) route. Start exploring the stunning Royal Bushy Park, see where Eisenhower had his WWII base and look for deer that are direct descendants from ones bred by Henry VIII.

Stop by a local pub for some refreshments (not included) before cycling to the end of  the Long Water, taking in the iconic view of Sir Christopher Wren's baroque masterpiece. Travelling alongside the River Thames, arrive at the Palace's grand riverside entrance and learn about the colourful history that dates back over 500 years.

The cycle ends close to the entrance for ease of access to the Palace or train station - a blissful trip out of the city.

*Please note: Entrance fee to the Palace is not included.

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.

The motto is: see more, less effort and more fun! It takes less time to ride leisurely between the sights than walk and you will spend more time exploring the city's world-famous landmarks and discover its hidden gems.

Watch London life go by as you cycle to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the most recognized symbol of the city. Discover the infamous Cabinet War Rooms and explore London's fairy tale cathedral Westminster Abbey. Just around the corner you will find Trafalgar Square with its picturesque National Portrait Gallery and Nelson's Column, and enjoy a well-earned lunch stop.

You will ride effortlessly through the lushing beauty of all central Royal Parks including Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Green Park and St James Park. See the Royal residencies Buckingham Palace in Hyde Park and Kensington Palace with the Princess Diana Memorial set in the wonderful gardens.

Hop on a bicycle and take a guided small-group bike tour along the River Thames, right through the heart of central London. During its 2,000 years of existence, London has faced plagues, great fires, wars and more that have continuously shaped its cityscape -- your local expert guide will actively lead you through this history as you sightsee, making your trip an educational and enjoyable experience.

During this bike tour, cycle on both banks of the Thames, admiring London's top attractions and stopping along the way for photo opportunities. Part of your itinerary will be determined by your guide on the day, depending on the group's overall preferences.

Your sightseeing will include Big Ben, the London Eye, St Paul's Cathedral, Borough Market, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, the Tower of London and the Tower Bridge.

Stop for a lunch break at Borough Market, one of London's largest food markets, famous for its wide range of food from all over the world. Fortified, you will continue your tour, crossing one of London's most popular bridges, the Tower Bridge.

From Tower Bridge you will pedal on to the area known as the City of London - the city’s financial center - where you’ll see some of the modern glass skyscrapers that have appeared more recently on the famous London skyline.

You’ll then head on past the Monument to the Great Fire and Leadenhall Market - one of London’s hidden 14th-century gems – and hear how it featured in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Make your way past an old medieval church that was bombed during the World War II blitz before cycling over London Bridge and back to Southwark - where your tour ends.

Explore London like never before with this exciting 3-hour bike tour. An expert guide will take you and your small group on a picturesque journey through the capital.

See the Houses of Parliament, Kensington Palace, St James’s Palace and the Horse Guards Parade. Cycle through the idyllic Hyde Park. View Princess Diana’s beautiful memorial fountain. Discover London history and learn about the fascinating royal family along the way.

You can rent a standard bike or upgrade to an electric bike. 

Exploring London has just got extra fun with this wonderful, 3-hour bike tour through the capital. Departing at 10am, you’ll get to see royal palaces, London’s most exquisite parks and some of the most iconic British landmarks along the way.

Starting your adventure at Waterloo with an expert guide leading you on the tour, you’ll set off to explore London and discover more about its rich history.

See Iconic London Landmarks

As you see some of London’s most beautiful sights, including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and Kensington Palace, you’ll stop off to discuss and learn more about London and the royal family.

Giving you the treat of cycling through London’s streets, cycle paths and parks, you’ll also come up close to Big Ben and Westminster Abbey and get the chance to see the Changing of the Guard (if it is taking place on the day of the tour) and iconic royal venues. And don’t worry; you can always stop off to take a picture along the way!

With this exhilarating and informative journey, you’ll pass the exquisite Princess Diana Memorial and cycle through the glamorous West End and then ride back through the glorious Horse Guards Parade before reaching your final destination – Waterloo.

Upgrade to an Electric Bike

Electric bikes are easy to control, simple to ride and will ensure that you get up any hills with ultimate ease.

The tour ends in Waterloo, a central district of London, at approximately 12:45pm. 

Take a fantastic bike tour of the capital and explore the city like never before

Cycle through the scenic surroundings led by an expert guide

Pass through the world-famous Parliament Square and see the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey

Spectacular views of London including the London Eye as you ride along the Thames

See St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden

Upgrade to an electric bike for only £10

Take in the wonderful sights and sounds of London on this exciting bike tour through the capital. With an expert guide leading you through some of the most well-known locations in London, you will get to explore the city like never before.

See Iconic London Landmarks

As you set off from Waterloo, you’ll ride along the Thames and see spectacular views of the London Eye before cycling past the Houses of Parliament and through Parliament Square. Get your cameras ready as you see the enormous Big Ben and the gothic church of Westminster Abbey.

Pass Exciting London Locations

You’ll take a break to learn more about the history of your surroundings before visiting the popular Trafalgar Square, home to the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column, Covent Garden with its cultural vibe and many street performers, Smithfield Market and the exquisite St Paul’s Cathedral.

As you cycle through the hustle and bustle, through the backstreets and scenic roads, you’ll see all the wonderful treats London has to offer and return back to Waterloo. An adventure like no other!

Upgrade to an Electric Bike

Get ready for an entertaining, small group guided bike tour of London and discover London like you have never seen it before. Riding a classic English Pashley bicycle you will cycle along the quiet back streets of Westminster and Royal London with frequent stops to soak up the atmosphere. Whether you are a local, or a visitor to London, you will find the London Landmarks Bike tour informative and fun with amazing facts and stories from your local native English speaking guides, that will give you a fresh perspective on the city.

You can discover all London has to offer on the Landmarks Bike Tour. The tour begins with meeting your guide and selecting your beautiful handbuilt British Pashley bicycles. Start by exploring the former palace gardens of Lambeth Palace, cycling along the river Thames, seeing Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. You'll also see the hidden streets of Westminster, Westmisnter Abbey, Horseguards Parade, St. James Park, Buckingham Palace, Traflagr Square, Covent Garden, London Eye, the Southbank and the Banky Tunnel. 

See the ever changing walls of a legal graffiti zone where artists such as Banksy have painted. Then try your own hand at street art and leave your mark on London! We provide spray paint.

This is our easiest-going tour and the best way to start your visit to London. Don't worry if you haven't ridden a bike in a while, our guides will have you feeling confident quickly.

The Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon Marble, and the Assyrian lion hunt are just some of the myriad art treasures we’ll see in this 3-hour, in-depth British Museum Tour. Led by a trained archaeologist or historian, this walk not only explores the history of the museum and its controversial history of collecting, but goes in-depth with some of its many treasures from antiquity. Together, we'll rediscover not only the museum's well-known Ancient Egyptian and Greek treasures, but some of its lesser-known, but no less magnificent, Assyrian, Persian, and Mesopotamian artifacts.

• British Museum Tour led by an expert docent trained in history or archaeology
• A insider's visit to the British Museum
• Small group sightseeing in London—6 people max

"I felt like I had goggles taken off and I could see for the first time"

British Museum Tour

We generally start with a thorough overview of how the British Museum came into existence in the mid-eighteenth century, visiting to the Enlightenment Gallery, formerly known as the King’s Library—the first part of the new museum building as it is seen today. Here we will look at how the discipline of archaeology evolved—in this very room!—from the work of antiquaries. We'll also look at how art history was born here with the study of ancient Greek sculpture and vase painting, and how Greek art set the standard for the next 200 years of what was considered the model of fully-evolved art. For people interested in intellectual history, we've arrived at a major crossroads.

Antiquities & the Rosetta Stone

From here we will traverse the halls of the museum, visiting its most important rooms. This includes the Egyptian collection. Here, we will discuss how ancient texts came to be deciphered in the first place and will compare the ways in which hieroglyphs and cuneiform, the two earliest scripts, were cracked.

Ancient Iran and Iraq

We will also look at several of the antiquities and languages of ancient Iraq and Iran, as material from these areas forms some of the earliest collections in the British Museum. Large-scale excavation in the ancient Middle East and the race to decipher hieroglyphic and cuneiform scripts were inspired by the finds from Mesopotamia and Persia. The beginnings of the British Museum are inextricably tied to the European re-discovery of these ancient cultures.

Interested in touring another can't-miss museum? Try our National Gallery Tour.

Depending on Interest

Our discussion will be illustrated by the Rosetta Stone, which now lives in the British Museum, along with nearly 130,000 pieces of cuneiform tablets from ancient Iraq, some of which are on display. Depending on the interests of our docent and the group, we may then spend time looking more in-depth at the art of ancient Iran and/or of ancient Iraq in its earlier phases, before taking in the palace reliefs of ancient Assyrian kings that form the best collection of ancient Iraqi sculpture outside Baghdad. Or, we'll spend the rest of our time looking at the Parthenon Marbles.

For a different view of archaeology in London, see our Hidden London Tour.

Take Aways

"Our docent's enthusiasm for this subject was contagious" is a refrain we hear often on this walk. Indeed, this is one of our goals: To focus on the inspiring, world-historical events that have taken place in and around the British Museum and the objects she houses, and impart a sense of wonder and appreciation among the tour participants. At the end of our time together we will emerge with a better understanding of this major institution and the key role it continues to play in intellectual life worldwide.

FAQs

Where does the tour start? Where does it end?

The tour meets near the British Museum, in an easy to find location away from the crowds. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24/7 phone number. The walking tour ends inside the Museum.

Will we see the Parthenon Marbles?

Yes, they are part of the itinerary. In general, we encourage you to share with us your interests so we can adjust the tour to best meet your expectations.

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.

Is the British Museum accessible?

The Great Russell Street entrance has 12 steps with a handrail. There are self-operable lifts on both sides of the steps. There is level access at the Montague Place entrance. The majority of galleries and all special exhibitions are fully accessible.

Is this tour good for kids and teens?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. We have a separate British Museum for Families walk just for families with children 12 and under. When booking, please 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.

From beheadings to Beefeater, political intrigue, and the Crown Jewels, few sites represent London better than it's famous Tower. This 3-hour Tower of London Tour, led by a historian who has taught British history extensively, uses the Tower as backdrop for understanding and discussing British history, the political intrigues of kings and queens, and the daily life of commoners. Together, we'll discuss the many roles the Tower has played, from strategic outpost of William the Conquerer to a prison and site of execution that witnessed the beheading of two of Henry VIII's wives. With a history that spans nearly 1,000 years, there is much more than this to explore and discover.

• Tower of London Tour explores the Tower and surrounding area
• Led by a scholar of British history
• Small group sightseeing in London - 6 people max.
• No waiting in line.

Tower of London Tour

We will begin with a walk outside the tower and consider the oldest part of the structure, which was built by William the Conqueror in the 1070s. We will think about the strategic advantages to its location by the River Thames on the edge of the wealthy City of London and its role as a reminder to Londoners of the power and military might of the king. Upon entering, we will discuss the architectural developments of the Tower of London as a castle and a royal residence in relation to the political and social presence of the ruling monarch and the various messages of power that it conveyed.

Bloody Tower

At the execution site, we will remember those who were executed and imprisoned here on charges of treason and we will explore the question of why private rather than public executions were chosen and the political implications each sentence held. In hearing of famous prisoners like Guy Fawkes, who attempted to blow up Parliament in 1605, as well as in seeing examples of torture instruments from the past, we will discuss questions of imprisonment, torture, and execution.

Looking for tours of more London landmarks? Try our Westminster Abbey Tour or St. Paul's Cathedral Tour.

Beefeaters

On our tour we will also see the Yeoman Warders, or the Beefeaters as they are more commonly known, who are the ceremonial guardians of the Tower; the ravens that have been at the tower for over 300 years and the legend surrounding them; and the Crown Jewels, used in the coronation ceremony of each new monarch, which symbolize the divine right of kings. We will discuss these in relation to the authority conferred by tradition and to the narrative within the story of the tower. We will further explore this in relation to the Victorians and the many narratives they constructed, specifically looking at Traitor's Gate and the execution site, and in relation to contemporary narratives spun by the guides.

Wrapping Up

Then, depending on your preference and continuing along with the themes of power and authority, we can enter the White Tower, the oldest part of the Tower of London constructed in the 1070s, and explore the state-of-the-art Norman fortress and royal palace. We will see spectacular examples of Henry VIII's armor and discuss the functions of the medieval tournament and its chivalric ideals. Alternatively, we can explore the many other towers, perhaps seeing the graffiti carved into the walls by prisoners in the Beauchamp Tower (also known as the Bloody Tower), where two young princes were said to have been murdered in 1483.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The tour meets near the Tower, in an easy to find location away from the crowds. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24/7 phone number. The walking tour ends within the Tower grounds.

Does this walk "skip the line"?

Yes, we use a reserved entry to bypass the ticket line at the entrance. However, if you are interested in a fully exclusive, "no crowds" experience, we also offer an early morning Tower of London walk

Will we see the Crown Jewels?

Yes, the Jewels are part of the tour. Please note that during peak season the Jewel House can be quite crowded, especially in the late morning and early afternoon.

Can I buy food and drink at the Tower or should I bring my own snacks?

Yes. There are various restaurants and cafés at the Tower offering a wide range of refreshments, snacks and meals, but you can also bring your own snacks.

Can I take photographs?

You are welcome to take photographs or to video within most of the Tower but photography and filming are not permitted inside the Jewel House, the Martin Tower, the chapel of St John inside the White Tower or in the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula.

Is the Tower of London accessible?

Whilst the Tower welcomes all visitors, this historic building has places with difficult stairs and passageways and wheelchair access is limited. There are also a large number of steps throughout the Tower with cobbles laid in some of the roads. However, the Jewel House and the Crown Jewels are fully accessible to all visitors.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. We have a separate Tower of London for Families walk just for families with children 12 and under. When booking, 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.

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

While London is laden with well-known, memorable landmarks, few represent English history and culture better than Westminster Abbey. During this 3-hour Westminster Abbey Tour, led by a local historian with expertise in royal history, we'll explore the central role that this emblem of British Christianity has played in English history, from its founding in the eleventh century to the recent wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. During the tour we will immerse ourselves in the medieval context of Westminster and journey through nearly 1,000 years of British history.

• Westminster Abbey Tour led by historians with extensive knowledge of British royalty.
• Groups capped at 6 people max.
• 1000 years of British history in one building.
• Includes skip-the-line tickets.

Westminster Abbey Tour

Our walk begins in Parliament Square, beside the Abbey. Surrounded by symbols of royal and parliamentary power, we will place the abbey itself in its historical landscape. Originally a marshy knoll along the banks of the Thames and home to one of the poorest populations in the city, we will discuss the area's transformation over the centuries.

History Through Architecture

Using the abbey itself as a kind of textbook, we will learn how to read and understand Gothic architecture. A palimpsest of historical time periods and styles, the building and its decorative elements form the basis for our discussion on the symbolic use of certain features and the actual use of the building complex as a residence, school, and center for the Anglican church. We will explore the hidden areas of the complex, including the gardens (if possible) and the particularly beguiling cloisters. The relaxed, quiet atmosphere of these spaces will enable us to engage in a serious discussion of the abbey's role in the lives and works of such luminaries as Geoffrey Chaucer, who was employed here and probably drew a good amount of material from the goings on for his Canterbury Tales.

Want to see another London highlight? Try our Tower of London Tour.

Fit for a Queen

As the church of the queen (or king, as it may be), Westminster Abbey served as the setting for all coronations. It is also the final resting place for royalty and legions of other notable Britons, from Elizabeth I to Charles Darwin. Experts estimate there may be over 30,000 graves in all within the confines of the church.

Inside the Church

This fact will shape the second half of our walk as we enter the main church itself and wander among the monuments, tombs, and testaments. Taken together, these objects—and the great church itself—will create a narrative of British history. We will trace the reigns of kings, the intrigues of dynasties, and the impact of certain key figures on politics, art, and science. As we move among the monuments, we will trace a millennium of English history. With over 600 memorials inside the nave and transept of the church, the range of topics we might discuss is wide, though certain themes typically emerge. One such theme is the conflict between Protestants and Catholics. Another is the Great War and the Second World War. Another still is the balance between the sovereignty of royalty and the rise of democracy. In the magical atmosphere of Westminster Abbey and in the presence of so much material history, we will conduct a wide-ranging discussion, exploring facets of English history new to us while supplementing our existing knowledge.

Reading the Church

As we move along, we will continue to pay attention to the intricate architectural decoration that makes this one of the most significant churches in the world, including the Italian Cosmati paving on the high altar, the ornate stone work in the sixteenth-century apse, and the wide range of sculpture represented on the tombs. We will also learn how to read British heraldry (a fundamental talent!) omnipresent elsewhere in Westminster, and indeed throughout London: the portcullis and roses of the Tudors, the lion stretching back to Scotland, and the unicorn, a symbol of Elizabeth I.

Take Aways

Our walk may conclude by witnessing the daily prayer said over the medieval tomb of Edward the Confessor, founder of the church. A rite that has been performed for nearly a thousand years, it give us a chance to wrap our walk with a bit of living history and ponder the continuing legacy of Westminster Abbey.

If you are interested in discovering more about the key role that religion and its architecture has played in British history, we suggest our St. Paul's Cathedral Tour.

FAQ

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside? You will go inside Westminster Abbey.

Will you pre-purchase tickets? You will purchase your Westminster ticket at venue, but your docent will have special access privileges, so you will not wait in line. Admissions: adults £18, seniors and students £15, youth (11-18) £8, under 11 free.

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.

Does this tour include Parliament? No, Parliament only allows their own tours led by their guides. You can view more info here. Keep in mind, Westminster is huge, and Parliament is only one part of it!

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.

Through a thousand years of history, the British monarchy has moved from center of power to ceremonial periphery, a movement vividly illustrated by the style and geographical placement of the remaining royal palaces and the parks that surround them. While these parks remain opulent reminders of the power and sway of the monarchy, they largely remain as historical and ceremonial reminders of how Britain has evolved from absolute monarchy to a democracy. In the company of a local historian, this London Parks and Palaces Tour visits some of the most important parks and palaces in the city, including Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, and Hyde Park, elucidating their importance and exploring their grandeur.

• London Parks and Palaces Tour led by an local historian.
• Small group walks—6 people max.
• Learn the history of the British monarchy through its opulent parks and palaces.

London Parks and Palaces Tour

Starting at Westminster Hall, we will consider how the modern, ceremonial version of constitutional monarchy evolved over time and how that is reflected in the increasing democratization of space, best seen in the parks themselves, but also in the architecture and positioning of the palaces and their increasing accessibility and commercialization.

We'll walk through St. James’s Park, once Henry VIII’s deer park, taking in St. James’s Palace and Clarence House, today home to Prince Charles and Camilla Duchess of Cornwall.

At Buckingham Palace

Upon reaching Buckingham Palace we'll discuss Victoria's choice of the palace, and the establishment with Albert of the modern idea of “The Royal Family” as a kind of domestic ideal. We'll explore the embodiment of this, and other aspects of her rule, in the Monument. From here, we can also examine the ups and downs of the Monarchy in public opinion, as well as the Royal Family today and their place in British society and culture. Those interested in further exploring the monarchy may be interested in our London Royal Tour.

From Hyde Park to Kensington Palace

We'll continue along Green Park and Hyde Park, ending at Queen Victoria's birth place: Kensington Palace. The Palace chosen by William III, supposedly to benefit his health, but also for its symbolism: away from the seat of government, in the country, in a low-key, gentlemanly style. We'll compare Spencer and Clarence House as well as Lancaster House with Versailles, the White House, and the Escorial, demonstrating that while it may be grand, it is an out of the way—even suburban—house.

Those traveling with kids may also enjoy our London Tour for Kids of Kensington Palace.

We'll talk of more recent residents of the palace: Princess Margaret, Princess Diana, and William and Kate, and consider the present and the future for the British monarchy.

Take Aways

At the end of the walk we will have had the opportunity not only to marvel at some of London’s grandest and most beautiful landscapes, but we will have also developed an overview of how Britain’s constitutional monarchy has evolved and why, seen how that evolution is reflected physically in the deployment of buildings and parks, and begun to understand the place that London’s great parks play in the present life and past history of the city.

This walk can be tailored to appeal to everyone from the young, with its stories and fairy-tale glamor, to the more sophisticated trying to understand how the English constitution has become what it is today.

As this walk covers about 3.5 km, clients should wear comfortable shoes.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins in the Westminster neighborhood and ends at Kensington Palace. 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 view these venues from the outside. The walk ends at Kensington Palace, where you are welcome to go inside after the tour.

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 3 miles overall.

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.

Westminster has been at the heart of the governmental system of England (and later, Great Britain) since the Norman Conquest in 1066. Originally the site of the main royal palace in London, whose vestige survives in Westminster Hall, it has, over the centuries, become the seat of parliamentary democracy. The area in its immediate vicinity, specifically Whitehall and Parliament Square, has seen the development of grand building works housing royal palaces, government departments, and the Supreme Court. Westminster Abbey (the subject of our Westminster Abbey Tour), the other focal point, has also played an important role in the history of government, hosting coronations, royal weddings, and funerals, and serving as a necropolis for the kings and queens of England. On this London Parliament Tour, guided by a local historian, we will visit these and other important sites for the development of Britain's government while discussing the evolution of democracy and monarchy.

• Take in London's most significant political landmarks.
• Small group size—maximum six people on a walk.
• London Parliament Tour led by a historian.

London Parliament Tour

We'll begin our discussion in the early years of Parliament, which served as a council of tenants-in-chief to William the Conqueror. From there, we will chart its rise to power, which culminated in the supremacy of the representative House of Commons in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Trafalgar Square

As we're discussing the origins of Parliament, we will stroll through Trafalgar Square to the statue of Charles I, who looks down Whitehall towards Westminster. From here, we will explore how this king’s determination to rule by divine right led to civil war and his ultimate overthrow and execution. We will continue down Whitehall, past Horse Guards’ Parade, where the royal bodyguard has traditionally been barracked, toward The Whitehall Banqueting House, part of a seventeenth-century palace complex, which is the masterpiece of architect Inigo Jones and was intended to exemplify royal power and prestige through the painted decoration of Peter Paul Rubens.

Decoding History

We will then examine the architectural vocabulary of many of the ministries of state, a vestige of imperial times during which time it administered the civil service of the British Empire, contrasting the modest frontage of Number 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the Prime Minister, with some of the more opulent architecture associated with government.

The Figures of Parliament

Continuing on into Parliament Square we will examine some of the important figures in the history of parliamentary democracy who are celebrated here: Simon de Montfort, the knight who fought Edward I to establish parliamentary rights; Oliver Cromwell, the leader of the Parliamentary faction in the English Civil War and de facto ruler of England in the 1650s; Winston Churchill, famed Prime Minister during the Second World War (whose legacy we also explore on our Churchill War Rooms Tour); David Lloyd George, the Prime Minister during the First World War; and Benjamin Disraeli, Queen Victoria’s favorite Minister.

The Houses of Parliament

We will discuss the 1834 rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament after the Great Fire and the choice of the Gothic style in its reconstruction. We will visit the surviving ancient buildings that formed the medieval palace: the Jewel Tower, built to house Edward III’s treasury in 1365, and Westminster Hall, one of the largest medieval structures in England and the setting for coronation banquets and important trials alike.

Take Aways

Wrapping up, we'll discuss the English Parliamentary system, made up of two ‘houses,’ the Commons and the Lords, and how this has changed over the centuries. We will consider the new Supreme Court building and the role of the judiciary in the government of England through the ages and, finally, we may visit Westminster Abbey, once the glory of medieval monarchy and now the setting for coronations where monarchs are anointed by the will of the people in Parliament. Visitors will leave having gained a deeper understanding of British and global political history.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins and ends in the Westminster neighborhood. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

No, this is mostly concentrated in and around Westminster. There are some opportunities to sit if needed.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, although this tour takes place mostly indoors.

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

In addition to Westminster Abbey and the Banqueting House, we go into Westminster Hall and sometimes the Court of Justice. We do not go in and listen to the debates in the House of Commons and the House of Lords because the lines are just too long.

Does this tour include an inside visit Parliament? No, Parliament only allows their own tours led by their guides. You can view more info here. Keep in mind, Westminster is huge, and Parliament is only one part of it!

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.

Hop on a train from London to Hampton Court Palace, and visit the most well-known home of infamous Henry VIII. On this Hampton Court Tour, led by a local British historian, we will both appreciate the opulence and historical significance found throughout the grounds. Together, we will inspect the impressive Tudor frontage, the Great Hall, with its remarkable hammer-beam roof, and the huge kitchens that were once used to cook meals for over 1,000 people. We will also be able to see vestiges of several of Henry VIII's six queens, further informing our understanding of the history of the place—Catherine of Aragon’s symbol, the pomegranate, can be seen above a door frame, Jane Seymour’s arms decorate a ceiling, and it is in the Great Watching Chamber that Catherine Howard’s adultery was announced, leading to her execution.

• Hampton Court Tour led by a British History expert.
• Small groups - No more than six people.
• Examines the impressive Hampton Court, as well as the history of Henry VIII and other memorable residents
• Great for families

Hampton Court Tour

On the tour, while we will discuss Henry VIII and the Tudor palace, we will also discover that there is much more to glean about British history by visiting Hampton Court. We'll start our tour by disembarking the train and crossing the River Thames, where we will discuss the importance of the river to monarchs over the centuries. Upon entering the palace, our discussion will move to how, in 1236, the Knights Hospitallers of St. John Jerusalem acquired the Manor of Hampton and used it as a grange, or center, for their agricultural estates before it was leased in 1508 to Cardinal Wolsey, Henry VIII’s Chief Minister. Wolsey carried out vast building works and turned the manor into a magnificent palace; as such, we will discuss both his architectural innovations and his life.

" Our guide's knowledge of history kept us all captivated. It felt like reading a book you didn’t want to put down."

A Royal Residence

In the late 1600s, Hampton Court was adopted by the joint monarchs, William III and Mary II. They hired the great Baroque architect Sir Christopher Wren (the subject of our Christopher Wren Churches Tour) to rebuild the King’s and Queen’s Apartments. We will see the rooms that they used for public ceremonies as well as for private moments. while discussing the functions of these rooms and the daily lives of the monarchs who used them.

Royal Opulence

The Prince and Princess of Wales, the future George II and Queen Caroline, also lived at Hampton Court and redecorated the apartments using fashionable architect and interior designer William Kent. On our travels through the apartments, we will also see great works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings, precious sixteenth-century tapestries, and the Renaissance masterpiece by Mantegna, "The Triumphs of Caesar."

To The Gardens

Then we will move onward to the gardens, where we will discuss the history from the Tudors to today and wander through the many different areas, from the formal gardens to the orchard, from the 200-year-old Great Vine to the Rose Garden, as well as to the site of Henry VIII’s tiltyard where tournaments were held. At the end, if you still have the energy, you might like to get lost in Hampton Court’s famous maze.

Looking for more royal splendor? Try our Tower of London Tour.

For private tours we can organize a bike excursion to Hampton Court and a lesson of Real Tennis at the Royal Tennis Court. Please ask our office for more info.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins at Hampton Court station and ends inside the palace grounds. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number. Hampton Court is very easy to get to by train. South West Trains run direct from London Waterloo to Hampton Court. The journey only takes 35 minutes.

Can I take pictures?

Yes, photography and/or filming is permitted in all areas of the palace with the exception of the Chapel Royal, Royal Pew and Cumberland Art Gallery.

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.

Will you pre-purchase tickets?

We pre-purchase tickets to Hampton Court. Your docent will have them on hand.

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 Hampton Court accessible?

Hampton Court Palace is an historic building and, therefore, has uneven surfaces. We therefore recommend that wheelchair users bring their own wheelchair for comfort and ease. Most of the routes within the palace are accessible to visitors unable to climb stairs as there is a lift to take visitors to the State Apartments on the first floor. Staff and docents will be happy to help. However, many of the staircases are wide and shallow (having been built for William III who was asthmatic).

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The walk is at a leisurely pace. There are occasional opportunities to sit, use the restroom, and get something to drink if needed.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Where do we meet? Where do we end? 
You will meet the docent and driver at the Salisbury train station. Trains are very easy to use and navigate in the UK. We suggest the 8:20am train from London Waterloo, to get you to Salisbury by 9:45am. From there you will proceed by private car that we've arranged for you. The day will end in Bath or Salisbury, depending on your preference, where the driver will drop you off at the Station. From there, you will catch the train back to London. Your confirmation email will have more information, the exact meeting point, along with a map and emergency phone number.

Can I arrange for private car service beginning and ending in London? 
Yes! 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. We'll be in touch with further information

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 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.