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13 best london tours of 2024: "harry potter" & more.

From exploring "Harry Potter" movie sets to cruising on the River Thames, these are the best tours of London.

The Best London Tours

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If you're looking for the best things to do in London but are unsure where to begin, consider a guided tour of the city. Many sightseeing excursions cover the major landmarks (think Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge ), while other London tours focus on "Harry Potter," Jack the Ripper and day trips to Stonehenge. Read on to discover a variety of well-rated tours in London.

Best Overall: Premium Tours – Full Day London Tour

Best tower of london: historic royal palaces – yeoman warder tours, best harry potter: warner bros. studio tour london, best food: secret food tours – london bridge, best drinking: liquid history tours – drink london tour, best river: thames rockets – ultimate london adventure, best bike: london bicycle tour company – the classic tour, best ghost: the ghost bus tours, best jack the ripper: the jack the ripper tour with ripper-vision, best art: alternative london – street art walking tour, best bus: brigit's bakery london – classic afternoon tea bus london tour, best free: strawberry tours – free soho tour london.

• Best Stonehenge: The English Bus – Stonehenge, Bath & A Secret Place Tour

Price: Adults from 133 pounds (about $175); kids from 123 pounds (about $162) Duration: 9 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send  Laura French , an award-winning British travel writer currently based in London, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. Premium Tours – Full Day London Tour was selected by our team thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

This full-day bus tour packs in an impressive number of London’s must-see sights, with free time to explore at each stop.

We boarded at Victoria Coach Station before ambling through Westminster, getting up-close views of honey-hued Parliament Square – framed by the Houses of Parliament , Big Ben and Westminster Abbey – from the bus.

From there it was on to St. Paul’s Cathedral , where we were given a guided tour of this chandelier-bedecked marvel as our English guide shared intriguing facts about its history.

Next up was Buckingham Palace, where our guide timed it so we’d catch the changing of the guard.

Our next stop was the Tower of London , where we had a brief lunch break and guided orientation before having a couple of hours to roam freely. Most of the tour group made an immediate beeline for the crown jewels, eyes goggling at the impressive collection of diamond encrusted crowns and gold chalices. We rounded off the day with a cruise along the Thames. The tour ended at the London Eye , where several in the group had opted for an add-on whirl on the wheel, and a few left for cream tea at Harrod’s (two activities included in the upgraded ticket option).

Tours run daily from 7:45 a.m. to around 4:30 p.m. It’s worth noting the changing of the guard only takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, so if you’re hoping to catch it, book the tour for one of those days (and while guides will do their best to accommodate seeing the changing of the guard, there’s never a guarantee).

Good to know:

• You’ll be on your feet a fair amount, so it's best to wear comfy shoes .
• You'll also want to pack light – in the morning, you can leave things on the bus, but when you get off at the Tower of London, you’ll need to take everything with you, as the rest of the tour is on foot and by boat.
• You'll have to wait in line for the crown jewels, but it’s worth the wait!

Laura French

Why we love it:

• Beyond the official stops, our guide pointed out plenty of other intriguing spots along the way – from Downing Street, official home of the prime minister, to Fleet Street, the former epicenter of British journalism, and the West End , the biggest theater district in the world. Despite having grown up in and around the city, I gleaned plenty of new historical facts myself, and spotted things I’d never noticed before (including the building that served as Gringotts Wizarding Bank in the "Harry Potter" movies).
• The tour ticket covers the cost of entry for St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and the river cruise.
• The guide also gave us plenty of other tips – such as when to come to see the dress rehearsals for the Trooping the Color (the king’s official birthday) – and pointed out a good fish and chip shop by the Tower of London for a classic British lunch.

– Laura French

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Price: Adults from 34.80 pounds (about $46); kids from 17.50 pounds (about $23) Duration: 1 hour

Previous travelers highly recommend taking the Yeoman Warder Tours that are included with admission to to the Tower of London. The Yeoman Warders (also known as "Beefeaters") share fascinating stories about the tower's history as a fortress and prison. Note that some parts of the tour can be scary for young children.

The Tower of London is open daily and tours take place every 30 minutes.

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

Price: Adults from 53.50 pounds ($71); kids from 43 pounds ($57) Duration: 3.5 to 7 hours

If you're a fan of "Harry Potter," you already know that this London tour is a must – and previous tourgoers confirm it lives up to the hype. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter offers a behind-the-scenes look at sets, props and costumes used in the film franchise. Walk through the Great Hall – which is set for dinner – and explore Diagon Alley and Platform 9 3/4.

Other exhibits include Creature Effects, where you can see how characters like Buckbeak the Hippogriff and Aragog were brought to life. You can even enjoy a butterbeer in the Backlot Café. Special exhibits are also displayed throughout the year and around the holidays.

Plan to spend at least half a day to fully experience the collection and discover its intricate details. Themed packages and add-on experiences are also available, as are tours that include transportation to Warner Bros. Studio .

Courtesy of Secret Food Tours

Price: Adults from 89 pounds (about $117); kids from 79 pounds (about $104) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

British food often gets a bad reputation, but this tour will change your mind. You'll visit seven different eateries, sampling everything from sausage rolls to sticky toffee pudding.

The tour begins at bustling Borough Market, where you'll snack on a bacon and egg bap (the U.K. version of a breakfast sandwich) as your guide tells you about the history of the market, as well as an overview of the city's history and culture. Other stops include a historic pub for a cheese tasting paired with English cider. And – as is standard on a Secret Food Tour – there will be a secret dish offered somewhere along the way.

As you eat your way through London, you'll also enjoy great views of the city skyline, London Bridge and Tower Bridge. Past participants appreciate the quantity and quality of food provided, as well as the entertaining guides.

Tours depart several times a day beginning at 10:30 a.m. Secret Food Tours also offers Indian food tours and Camden Market food tours, among other options.

Price: From 30 pounds (about $40) Duration: 3 to 4 hours

If the idea of walking – and drinking – in the footsteps of literary luminaries like Shakespeare and Dickens appeals, this is the tour for you. On the Drink London Tour, you'll walk along the "Street of Shame" (Fleet Street) for approximately 2 miles and stop in at least four historic pubs, some centuries old. You'll stroll by St. Paul's Cathedral, peek into secluded courtyards and listen to tales about Sweeney Todd. Travelers love the stories the guides share just as much as they enjoy drinking the local brews.

Note that the cost of drinks is not included, and reservations are required for this tour. Participants must be at least 18 years old. If you're traveling with a group, consider one of Liquid History Tours' private excursions.

Price: Adults from 59.95 pounds (about $75); kids from 49.95 pounds (about $66) Duration: 50 minutes

The Ultimate London Adventure tour is a sightseeing cruise like no other. As your actor-turned-guide narrates your trip, you'll take in iconic sights along the Thames, such as the Tate Modern, the Gherkin and the Houses of Parliament. Once you get under the Tower Bridge, the speedboat captain ramps up to speeds of 30 knots (35 mph) and takes you on a thrilling ride as music blasts and passengers shriek. Tourgoers describe it as an exhilarating, fantastic experience.

Tours depart several times daily. Keep in mind: From November through January tours are only offered Thursday through Sunday. Thames Rockets also offers adults-only evening rides, as well as longer 80-minute cruises, among other options.

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Price: Adults from 33.95 pounds (about $53); kids from 29.95 pounds (about $39) Duration: 3 hours

Travelers consistently give the London Bicycle Tour Company high marks for its fun guides who are vigilant about ensuring riders' safety. On the Classic Tour – which travels about 8 miles – you'll breeze past Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Banksy Tunnel (where you'll likely witness artists at work) and other local landmarks. Your tour guide will offer commentary and give you plenty of time to stop and take photos.

Tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. Children need to be at least 10 years old and stable riders to participate.

To admire the city lights at night, consider the company's daily sunset ride.

Price: Adults from 25 pounds (about $33); kids from 17 pounds (about $22) Duration:  75 minutes

Ride a vintage double-decker bus for a spooky peek into London's lesser-known history with Ghost Bus Tours. Mixing horror with a fair bit of comedy – an aspect reviewers love – the actors-turned-guides describe the haunted history of top attractions, such as the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, among other famous landmarks. Both visitors and locals value the obscure stories guides share.

Tours run several times each evening, though departure times vary by day.

Courtesy of Jack the Ripper Tour

Price: Adults from 19 pounds (about $25); kids from 11 pounds (about $15) Duration: 2 hours

This offbeat Jack the Ripper tour has a unique spin: the company uses what it calls "Ripper-Vision" to tell the story of the notorious murderer. A hand-held projector, "Ripper-Vision" displays pictures on walls and sides of buildings throughout the tour, allowing the guides to show (and tell) all about the infamous serial killer.

You'll visit the actual murder sites where Jack the Ripper commited his crimes, and will get a glimpse of what London was like in the late 1800s. Tourgoers say guides are informative, entertaining and skilled at retelling the stories of Jack the Ripper's escapades.

Tours are offered nightly at 7:30 p.m., with an additional 5 p.m. tour on select days. The company also offers Jack the Ripper pub tours.

Courtesy of Alternative London

Price: Adults from 20 pounds ($26); kids from 14 pounds (about $18) Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Promising to show you things London guidebooks don't cover, Alternative London's walking tour takes you to East London, where guides showcase the area's street art and discuss its culture and history. The company employs street artists and other creative types as guides so you get an insider's look into the community, something travelers say makes the tour unique.

No two tours are alike because every guide has their favorite route and spots to highlight. Past tourgoers say the tour is fun and full of interesting insights.

Tours run at 11 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and Tuesdays, as well as 2 p.m. on Fridays. Outings are limited to 20 people. Looking to explore more of London's hidden spots? Alternative London offers a bike tour that emphasizes street art.

Courtesy of Brigit's Bakery's Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Price: Adults from 45 pounds (about $59); kids from 35 pounds (about $46) Duration: 1.5 hours

Offering a unique twist on a bus tour and afternoon tea, Brigit's Bakery London's Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour combines the two for a tasty outing. During the tour, you'll ride on a vintage double-decker Routemaster bus through central London, passing by Big Ben, Hyde Park, Downing Street and more. As you sightsee, servers pour tea and offer sandwiches, cakes and pastries. In addition to the tour's novelty, visitors find the prerecorded commentary entertaining and informative, and most say they enjoyed the food.

Tours run several times daily and depart from either Northumberland Avenue or Victoria Coach Station. The tour accommodates several dietary restrictions, though these options may have an additional fee. Children ages 4 and younger are not permitted. Prefer gin to tea? The company also offers a Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, among other options.

Price: Free Duration: 2 hours

Since the mid-19th century, Soho has been a haven for musicians, writers and bohemians. Learn about the neighborhood's famous residents and much more on this free two-hour London walking tour. Your guide will talk about famous bands like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones and their connection to the area. You'll also learn about the history of Soho's sex industry, a topic not always discussed on tours. Guides will take you by the Old Red Light District, Carnaby Street, the West End Theatre District and more. Tourgoers rave about the expert guides and are awestruck by the history of the area.

As its name suggests, the tour is free, but at the end of tour, you can pay your guide what you wish. This tour runs Wednesday through Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Tickets must be reserved in advance. Strawberry Tours offers other free excursions around London, such as street art-themed tours and several London landmarks tours.

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Best Stonehenge: The English Bus – Stonehenge, Bath & A Secret Place Tour

Price: From 144 pounds (around $183) per person Duration: 12 hours

After you've had your fill of London's hustle, take a day trip to the countryside for a tour of Stonehenge . On this small tour of 16 people or fewer, you'll depart London in a Mercedes minibus and head to both Stonehenge and Bath. At Stonehenge, you'll have time to walk around the ancient stones and marvel at their enormity. In Bath, you'll have time to stop for lunch and either explore on your own or take a guided tour. The twist to this tour is that you'll also visit a secret spot on the way back to London, which is only revealed when you arrive.

The English Bus's vehicle, with panoramic windows and a glass roof, is small enough to go down back roads and through the countryside – a feature travelers love. Reviewers are also complimentary of the guides, who they describe as friendly, educational and well-versed in British history.

Tours depart daily at 8:45 a.m. and return to central London around 8:30 p.m. Tickets do not include food, drinks or admission to Stonehenge. The English Bus also operates daylong trips to the Cotswolds, Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon, among other destinations.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in London
• The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace
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"I love surprising our guests with London's incredible diversity. You can go from admiring the dazzling architecture and shopping at the trendy boutiques, to watching grand royal ceremonies and meeting the locals in a 16th-century pub - all in one day."

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Admire the Big Ben and the imposing Houses of Parliament

As you touch down in London, you’ll surely be searching the skyline for Big Ben, the iconic Clock Tower at the Palace of Westminster, or the Houses of Parliament. You'll have the chance to admire these impressive buildings in the company of your London travel guide and listen for the famous chimes that have been ringing out across London since 1859.

Learn about the history of the Buckingham Palace

You’re in for a royal time at Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British royal family since 1837. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in London, and we’ll take you to marvel at this magnificent palace, learn about it’s centuries-old history, and perhaps even wave to the King if he’s home.

Ramble through London's picturesque Royal Parks

If you love a lush park or garden, you’re in for a real treat in London, with over 5,000 acres of gorgeous green space across the eight Royal Parks. Spend your days strolling, cycling, or simply relaxing in these beautiful parks, from the famous Hyde Park to the ornate Kensington Gardens.

Go on a shopping spree around Carnaby Street and Soho

We’ll dive into London’s West End with a tour around the buzzing borough of Soho, where you’ll get a taste of London’s diverse culture, history and cuisine. Wander down the iconic Oxford and Regent Streets and of course, Carnaby Street, the city’s shopping mecca, and the epicentre of the Swinging Sixties in London.

See the stately Changing of the Guard

You’ll watch history come alive when we take you to Buckingham Palace to witness the spectacular Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a full-on display of royal pomp and military tradition, with the soldiers of The Queen’s Guard in bearskin hats and bright-red uniforms marching down the Mall, and you can’t miss it on your London trip.

Our top 5 things to do in London

With an overwhelming number of iconic London attractions to explore, where to begin? When you travel London with Trafalgar, we’ll show you all the very best of the city.

Tate Modern

As one of the world’s largest museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern is an unmissable London attraction. You’ll find everything here from vibrant artworks to films and performance art, and you can’t miss the giant Turbine Hall, a five-storey tall room used to display extraordinarily large art installations.

Museum of London

If you’ve ever wanted to learn the history of this great city, the Museum of London is the place to go. It’s the world’s largest urban history collection and you’ll learn all about England’s capital from prehistoric to modern times. The museum even overlooks the remains of the Roman city wall on the edge of the oldest area of London.

Science Museum

You could spend hours exploring the treasures of the Science Museum including the world’s greatest innovations, ranging from Puffing Billy, the oldest surviving steam locomotive, to the first jet engine, to the Apollo 10 command module. You’ll travel from the Industrial Revolution all the way into the future in this amazing playground of the mind.

Best museums in London

London’s museums are among the world’s best, with millions of visitors each year to marvel at the incredible history, art and design. What treasures will you find when we take you to these great institutions?

Cottage Pie

It doesn’t get more comforting than a traditional cottage pie, and you’ve got to order this English staple at least once in a classic London pub. It’s been a beloved dish for generations, originating as a clever way to make a hearty meal from leftovers like beef, peas and carrots, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Cornish Pasty

Make a beeline for the nearest bakery in London and discover these little pockets of deliciousness. They’re made from shortcrust pastry stuffed with beef, potatoes, swede, onion and egg, then baked until golden, forming a rich gravy inside its own tasty casing. You’re sure to go back for more than just one Cornish pasty!

Named after the prestigious boys’ boarding school of the same name, this simple yet delicious treat is made from a refreshing blend of cream, strawberries and crushed meringue. It’s a classic British dessert and you can even try it at The National Café at the National Gallery, one of the best art museums in London.

Best food in London

Our London tours are big on foodie experiences, and you can go from a traditional English afternoon tea, to a delicious culinary adventure through Chinatown in the West End.

What to pack for London

Waterproof coat

London is known for its drizzles and rain showers, so pack a waterproof coat or travel-sized umbrella to keep your dry and warm on your London trip.

Comfortable shoes

This city was made for walking, and with so many incredible monuments, museums, parks and markets to explore, you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes to get you around London.

Camera & extra SD cards

From Big Ben to the London Eye, your camera is sure to get a good workout. Pack some extra SD cards so you never run out of space to capture all of London’s pinch-me moments.

Waterproof day bag

Keep your hands free on your London tours with a waterproof day pack, perfect for holding all your shopping and souvenirs and keeping them dry in wet weather.

Warm layers

London is known for experiencing four seasons in one day, so it’s best to wear layers that will keep you warm in the cold weather and cool when the sun comes out.

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The 15 Best Tours and Activities in London [Walking and Bus Tours, Shows, and More]

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Table of Contents

Magical london: harry potter guided walking tour, downton abbey tour including castle entry and lunch, tower of london ticket with crown jewels exhibition, wwii westminster walking tour and churchill war rooms tour, westminster to greenwich river thames cruise, chelsea football club stadium and museum, street art half-day tour, jack the ripper walking tour, guided wembley stadium tour, comedy horror show: london ghost bus tour, changing of the guard and buckingham palace tou r, l ondon rock ‘n’ roll history tour, sherlock holmes 2-hour walking tour, speed boat tour of the river thames, climb the roof of the o2 arena, final thoughts.

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London is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world. From the eclectic cafes and art galleries in the east to the shops and theaters in the west, there is always something to see and do in London whatever the weather.

One of the best and easiest ways to see the city is through a guided tour. London has many attractions but is also home to some fantastic themed tours such as Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, or Ghost Tours. Here are the top 15 picks of tours in London.

Duration: 2.5 hours

Rating: 4.6/5

Discover the secret hidden world of Harry Potter and other characters from the much-loved stories by J.K. Rowling. Take in some of the most iconic locations from the films as you travel through the land of the Muggles including the heart of Soho and Diagon Alley before heading out to visit a wealth of instantly recognizable locations.

These locations include over 20 historical landmarks that all had a place of pride in the films including Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station, Knockturn Alley, and the Millennium Bridge. Your guide will be a dedicated Harry Potter enthusiast who will regale you with stories along the way and be on hand to answer your questions.

Want to learn more about the Harry Potter tour, along with prices and availability? Click to check prices and availability .

Duration: 8 hours

Take a trip to the magnificent Highclere Castle, home to the Grantham family in the hit TV show Downton Abbey . Fans will love to follow in the footsteps of their favorite characters and take in famous locations as seen in the award-winning period drama.

A luxury coach will take you from London to the Cotswolds where you will spend many hours exploring the castle, as well as the nearby village of Bampton, also known as Downton Village, for a delicious lunch. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the real-life locations from the TV series Downton Abbey before heading back to London.

Learn more about the Downtown Abbey tour , along with photos, prices, and availability.

Duration: Valid for 1 day

Rating: 4.5/5

The Tower of London is one of the capital’s most famous and iconic visitor destinations and this tour allows you to jump the queue and see more for less! Built in 1086 by William the Conqueror, the UNESCO World Heritage Site has a fascinating history. To this day it is still home to the world-famous ravens and is guarded by the Queen’s Yeoman Warders.

The tour also includes entrance to the exhibitions, including the Crown Jewels, where you will be able to see over 23,578 gems, including the glistening Imperial State Crown. The Yeoman Warders will regale you with tales of intrigue and execution, and you can explore the Tower Green and well-kept grounds before or after your tour.

Click to read more about the Tower of London tour , along with photos, prices, and availability.

Rating: 4.7/5

Just a few steps away from Downing Street and the Houses of Parliament, the historic War Rooms have been left in virtually the same condition as they were at the end of World War II. This means they are an almost perfect representation of the dark days of the Blitz and a comprehensive record of the Nazi bombing campaign that changed the London landscape forever.

Visitors on the tour can explore the warren of underground rooms and tunnels and learn more about the life and legacy of the former Prime Minister in the interactive Churchill Museum. You’ll also experience a walking tour of Westminster’s war sites.

If you’re a history buff, this tour is right up your alley. Click to check out the  prices and availability of the WWII Westminster Walking Tour and Churchill War Rooms.

Duration: 1 hour

Rating: 4.4/5

See London from the water on this hour-long cruise along the Thames. Take in some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the Tate Modern from the open deck of a smart-looking, modern, and comfortable river vessel.

The full cruise takes an hour to reach Greenwich from Westminster, and you can explore Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum, and the Royal Observatory before making the return journey. For your convenience, there is a live audio commentary running for the duration of the journey to help you identify each landmark as you pass it.

Learn more about the River Thames Tour , along with photos, prices, and availability.

A pilgrimage to Stamford Bridge, the home of Chelsea Football Club, is a must for fans of the team, and the beautiful game in general. This 1-hour tour includes a visit to the world-famous stadium and entrance to the on-site museum. Your guide will take you behind the scenes to show you areas usually only reserved for the players, and you will be able to feel the excitement of walking onto the pitch first hand.

Click to read more about the Stamford Bridge tour , home of the Chelsea Football Club, along with photos, prices, and availability.

Duration: 2 hours

Rating: 4.8/5

The East End of London is well known for its eclectic and creative communities, and the street art scene is at its most vibrant here. This tour looks at the works of around 50 of the best street artists the city has to offer and guides you through the ever-changing landscape of urban masterpieces found in this part of London.

The tour route is regularly updated to ensure that visitors get to see the works of artists like David Walker, BC Crew, Phlegm, OZMO, Lister, Ronzo, and many more, and the friendly guide will be well versed in street art and the people that create it.

If you’re looking for a tour focusing on art and culture, be sure to check out this tour. Click to check Street Art Half-Day prices and availability .

Duration: 105 minutes

Using exclusive, hand-held “Ripper Vision” projectors, this walking tour takes you back to the dark heart of Victorian London, as you retrace the steps of the city’s most notorious killer. Join your guide to investigate the gruesome crimes, and learn about the conspiracy theories behind the Ripper’s identity.

As you visit the locations of the grizzly murders and learn more about his victims, your guide will use modern methods of criminal profiling to reveal the man the police should have been looking for during the biggest manhunt in British history.

Murder mystery lovers and history buffs alike will enjoy this tour. Click to check Jack the Ripper tour prices, availability, and photos.

Duration: 75 minutes

From England’s glorious World Cup victory in 1966 to the unforgettable Live Aid concert in 1985, Wembley Stadium has been at the heart of some of the U.K.’s biggest and best events. Your tour guide will lead you through the stadium building and take you to places that most people never see, including the Players Tunnel, Press Room, the Trophy Winner’s Steps, the England Dressing Room, and the Royal Box.

You will also learn about some of the historic games that have been played there and have the chance to see historical treasures such as the 1966 World Cup crossbar, the Jules Rimet Trophy from 1966, and the tablets that commemorated London’s 1948 Olympic Games.

Learn more about the Wembley Stadium tour , along with photos, prices, and availability.

Rating: 4.3/5

Buckle up for a terrifying tour on a Ghost Bus that will take you from the City to the West End and even south of the River to hear spooky tales from the likes of Westminster Abbey, Fleet Street, the Tower of London, and London Bridge.

Using onboard actors and technical trickery, this sinister sightseeing show delivers plenty of haunted places and unmarked burial grounds on The Necropolis Bus. Ghost, ghouls, and plenty of creepy laughter come standard on this tour that takes place on a traditional midnight black Necropolis Routemaster that was once used to carry the deceased.

Sound of interest? Click to check prices and availability for the Ghost Bus .

Rating: 4.2/5

This tour offers visitors the chance to explore the majestic State Rooms of Buckingham Palace and experience one of the most historic Royal ceremonies the city has to offer. The Changing of the Guards is an age-old tradition that draws visitors from all over the world, and on this tour, you will have a local guide explain the history and pageantry of the ceremony as it unfolds in front of your eyes.

In the State Rooms, you will be able to see some of the finest furniture in the world, while an audio guide describes the treasures on display and puts them into a historical context.

Interested in seeing an iconic piece of London culture? The Changing of the Guide is a timeless tradition made better by knowledge and history! Learn more about the Changing of the Guard tour , along with prices and availability.

Duration: 3.5 hours

London is a city that is steeped in rock and roll history. For music lovers everywhere, this fully-guided mini-coach journey will take you to iconic places synonymous with great music and rock and roll royalty.

Taking in all 4 corners of the city, your tour guide will take you to Ringo’s Hampstead house, the famed “Abbey Road” crossing, The Kinks’ Muswell Hill “shrine,” and celebrity homes including those of Boy George, George Michael, and Sting. It will also take in the spot where Jimmy Page cut his first disc, where Joe Meek killed his landlady, and where The Clash cut “London Calling.”

The tour covers some of the city’s most famous gig sites and clubs including the legendary UFO, Klooks Kleek, the Rainbow, Marquee, 100 Club, Roxy, Ronnie Scotts, the Roundhouse, and the Hope and Anchor.

If you’re looking for a music-focused tour, this may be the one to explore. Click to check Rock ‘n’ Roll prices and availability .

Take a trip into the world of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective and his weary sidekick in this 2-hour tour that covers locations from both the original books and the recent BBC TV series. From 221B Baker Street to the gentlemen’s clubs and grand hotels that were featured in some of the stories, this gentle walking tour is a must for Sherlock fans everywhere.

Grab your deerstalker hat and discover the London that inspired the original short stories, as well as the more recent filming locations from the modern interpretation starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman.

Interested? Learn more about the Sherlock Holmes tour , along with photos, prices, and availability.

Duration: 50 minutes

This high octane 50-minute speed boat tour along the River Thames gives you a chance to see London in a totally new way. Your guide will regale you with amusing stories of the city around you as you zoom along the waterways from the London Eye to the Docklands, taking in some of the city’s most iconic waterfront landmarks as you go.

Pelt along at full speed on a top of the range river vessel, while being safely protected from spray in waterproof gear and a life jacket. As one of the most exciting and highest-rated tours in London, this unique way to enjoy your exclusive vantage point is not for the faint-hearted.

Learn more about the Speed Boat tour , along with photos, prices, and availability.

Duration: 1.5 hours

Spend an hour and a half of your day scaling the heights of this prestigious entertainment venue, and take in the views out across this city from this magnificent vantage point. Your instructor will kit you out in a climbing suit complete with boots and harness before you begin your ascent of this incredible London landmark.

From a walkway suspended 52 meters in the air, you will be able to enjoy spectacular views out over the Olympic Park, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Canary Wharf, The Shard, and many other famous London landmarks.

Click to read more about the Climb the Roof tour , along with photos, prices, and availability.

Whether you choose to capture the city from the water or enjoy a slow stroll around some of London’s most iconic landmarks, this is a city that will meet you at your own pace. From kings and queens to the modern-day, London is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it is easy to see why. Any one of these tours is a great way to take in lots of the city in a short space of time.

Use our Ultimate Travel Guide to London or our guide on the best hotels in London or best hotels in London to book with points to help you explore the amazing fun to be had while visiting such an iconic city.

Looking for more tours in different cities? Explore our tour recommendations for  New York City  and  Rome .

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The best London tours

Speedy boats, trundling double deckers, bicycles and trips that will whisk you away – it's all in Time Out's guide to great London sightseeing tours

London is a city begging to be explored. Yeah, you could roam the streets yourself, but guided by a local means you'll be educated and get all the inside goss of the city.  Whether you want to hurtle down the Thames at nearly 30 knots (that’s fast, FYI),  get up close and personal with some  east London  street art,  or  see the capital's sights and world-famous  attractions  on an open-top bus, only a fully-fledged Londoner has all the juiciest bits of city info.

Lucky for all soon-to-be sightseers,  there's expertise and opportunity knocking around every corner – so  London's got you covered. Here's our pick of the best London tours. Put down your guidebooks, it's time to explore the capital like a local. From the tops of buses to bikes to speedboats, your point of view of the big smoke will be forever changed. 

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

RECOMMENDED: look out for the 50 best attractions in London

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best tours in London

1.  warner bros. studio tour london - the making of harry potter.

• Hertfordshire

Seven books and nine films down the line, the world has lost none of its appetite for all things Harry Potter-related. Which is why Warner Bros are keeping the Hogwarts magic alive with their special exhibition, ‘The Making of Harry Potter.’ The props, sets and costumes have been lovingly maintained, and the whole site is shrouded in behind-the-scenes secrets that any fan would love to know. Step into the iconic locations: the Great Hall at Hogwarts, Diagon Alley and, of course, Platform 9¾. You can also get your chops around a flagon of butterbeer (don’t worry, it’s kid-friendly), and if you fancy taking a souvenir home with you, you can purchase a wand. Also if something comes up, don't worry – chillaxiarmus – you'll get a full refund if you cancel 24 hours (or earlier) in advance. 

Don't miss: They have an events calendar featuring a Halloween feast with floating pumpkins and a 20th anniversary extravaganza. 

2.  Buckingham Palace

• Sightseeing

Fancy having a look around His Maj’s HQ? See the royal sites of central London, beginning at Clarence House before making your way to St James's Palace and the crowning jewel of the tour: Buckingham Palace. Tickets include skip-the-line access to Buckingham Palace Royal Mews or State Rooms (depending on the season) so you can get straight to soaking up the history of this iconic institution. 

Don't miss: Keep an eye out for the royal Foot Guards on duty at Wellington Barracks. 

3.  Ghost Bus Tours

• Trafalgar Square

All aboard the bus of nightmares for a journey to hell… er, we mean the Houses of Parliament and other well-known London landmarks. With a lick of black paint, an old-school Routemaster has been given a suitably ghoulish makeover for the Ghost Bus Tour, which will whisk you around the capital on a whistle-stop adventure of London’s most malevolent spots. You'll see some of the grizzly sites; Tower Bridge and Tower of London, for example. All the gothic architecture. Spooky stuff folks. Suitable for ages 5+ though, so suck it up, maybe. 

Don't miss: Ghostly sightings at Fleet Street, Southwark Cathedral and more. 

4.  Shoreditch Street Art Tours

• Things to do
• Walks and tours
• Spitalfields

Explore the street art scene of this lively patch of east London, where work by local artists such as Banksy, Eine, D*Face, Sweet Toof and Pure Evil mix with international pieces. Photographer and tour guide NoLionsInEngland is an authority on the genre so expect to find some surprises – and all the knowledge on the classics you walk past on the daily.  B ring your camera though, the gram won't have seen half of these East End beauties. It'll take you a couple hours, just fyi. 

Don't miss: Ask your tour guide as many questions as you'd like – he's a certified urban art and graffiti expert. 

5.  Arsenal Museum and Stadium Tour

• Sport and fitness

You don’t have to be a Gooner to enjoy this experience, but of course, it helps. The thought of being guided around the stadium by a former footballer on the Legends tour (such as Lee Dixon, Kenny Sansom or Charlie George) and walking through the players’ tunnel must cause a flutter of delight in the stomachs of many a fan.

Don't miss: Another lovely bit is being able to step inside the room (ok, a replica of) the room where the post-match interviews happen. 

6.  Harry Potter Bus Tour of London Locations

• Victoria Embankment

Hop onboard a luxury minibus for a whistlestop tour of location sites for all eight Harry Potter films, along the way learning about magic and how the films were made. There’ll be a chance to get off the bus and take pictures, and Harry Potter merchandise is available for sale at the end of the tour. You'll begin at Temple tube station (outside Temple Bar Restaurant next to the station exit) and end at Kings Cross station. Stop off at top Potter spots like Number 12 Grimmauld Place, Diagon Alley and Platform 9¾ – just don't try and run through the thing. You muggle. 

Don't miss: The trolley-through-the-wall photo op at Platform 9¾.

7.  London RIB Voyages

• Ships and boats

Bring your waterproofs, because t he slick RIB (rigid inflatable boat) operation offers a high-speed ride on the Thames. It's a great way to discover how exhilarating it can be to swoop along the Thames at almost 30 knots – that’s nearly 35 mph, nautical novices! We're not sure how much you'll actually be able to see,  but there are plenty more leisurely-paced tours for that sorta thing. It only takes 50 minutes anyway, and how else do you want to experience the big river in the big smoke? Exactly. Strap up, have fun and get into viewing the London scenery in a brand new way. 

Don't miss: Prepare for a photo stop at Tower Bridge and a James Bond soundtrack playing throughout. 

8.  Big Bus Tours

An open-top bus tour covering most of tourist London on two different, sometimes overlapping, routes. Commentary in English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Japanese, Russian or Portuguese, complete with music and sound effects, delves into London’s 2,000-year history. The ticket price includes a river cruise and walking tours, including ‘Royal London’ (10am), ‘Beatles’ (2.30pm) and ‘Ghosts by Gaslight’ (6pm), which all depart from Trafalgar Square. You can also hop on and off wherever you like for the entire day, so it doesn't have to just be a whistle-stop drive-by London that you get to enjoy.

Don't miss: There's Wi-Fi on the buses, so you can plan on the move. 

9.  2 Willow Road

• Historic buildings and sites

This testament to the lasting beauty of modernist architecture is the former home of brutalist architect Ernö Goldfinger. And yes, he is the Goldfinger who inspired Ian Fleming's Bond villain of the same name. It's facts like this and more that you'll discover on one of the guided tours of 2 Willow Road, or you can wander freely round the place between 3pm and 5pm. The home has remained exactly the same since 1939, so that's you trip down memory lane sorted right out. If you're into architecture and interior design, of course, it's an absolute win. Who doesn't love a nosy around a nice house? 

Don't miss: Take a moment to appreciate the bespoke furniture, like his black laminate-top desk, featuring unique pivoting drawers.

10.  Ghostsigns Walking Tour

Anyone from history buffs to font obsessives will dig this old advertising tour. Expertly led by Sam Roberts, who founded the Ghostsigns Project, you'll discover at least 15 hand-painted adverts on the side of buildings. The whole idea behind Roberts' Ghostsigns Project is to shed light on signage from a bygone era, sharing tidbits about the history of designs, the surrounding areas, and advertising as a whole. The tour lasts roughly two hours and kicks off from a post box in Stoke Newington. 

Don't miss:  Sam also offers self-guided virtual tours if you'd rather walk around without a chaperone. 

11.  London Bicycle Tour Company

• Public transport

With the option to hop on six different routes in seven different languages, you're bound to find something you love with the London Bicycle Tour Company. The 'classic tour' is a popular one, passing the London Eye, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, among other landmarks. Or check out the capital in all its glittering glory on a night ride past St Paul's, the Globe Theatre and more. Whichever route you take, you'll be able to pedal and learn – good for the body, and mind. There's endless bits of history too – it's perfect pub quiz prep if nothing else. 

Don't miss:  If you're lucky, you'll be able to catch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. 

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See London away from the large coach groups with your own personal guide. We offer tours for the first-time visitor as well as the frequent visitor, and special interests like Residential London, VIP London, Architecture, London for Kids, Maritime Greenwich, Legal London and more. Also see our London Walking Tours and London's Museums & Galleries . If there is somewhere special you'd like to visit, just ask, we are happy to customise any tour to suit you. Your guide will collect you from your London Hotel.

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The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

One of my favorite ways to travel is to base my travels around a theme . This lets me turn any average trip into something other than just a checklist of things to see and do.

While there are a ton of potential themes to base your trip around in London , I decided to focus my trip on something I love to death: walking tours. While I’ve been visiting the city for years, I wanted to get back to basics and learn about it from the ground up.

Since London is a massive city filled with a huge number of walking tours, from free tours and literary tours to pub crawls and specialty food tours and quirky tea tours, I had plenty of options to choose from. By the time my ten days here were over, I had taken over 25 walking tours!

London is not an easy city to walk around as it is so spread out, but these tours do a good job of breaking it down into manageable bites while giving you a lot of good history and context.

Here is my list of the best walking tours in London:

Best Overall Tour

Talk Walks is my favorite walking tour company in the city. You get behind the scenes access on their tours, which means you get to go to a lot of places other tours can’t go like into the Tower of London and Parliament (with skip-the-line access) .

Their tours are totally worth it if you’re looking to learn a lot. I take their tours every chance I get!

Best Free Tour

Tours by Foot

I’ve taken (and loved) this company’s NYC tours, so when I found out it had a London branch, I had to take a couple. Their London tours are just as good as they are in NYC: well written, well presented, and very insightful, while covering the major highlights of each area. They offer a seemingly endless number of tours that run throughout the day. Some of the better ones are the Westminster, Harry Potter, Soho, ghost, and street art tours.

While those may be the best free and paid tours in the city, London has a lot more to offer — no matter your interests. Here are 9 other insightful and educational tours in the city!  

1. Devour Food Tours

Devour is my go-to food tour company. I take their tours whenever I can because they go to off-the-radar spots where you’ll learn a ton about the food and the culture. They have two tours in London currently: Ultimate London Food Tour: Borough Market & Southwark and Tastes, Tales & Traditional Ales: Food Tour of London’s Historic Pubs . Both are amazing and will introduce you to the best eats — and drinks — in the city. Tours last 3.5-4 hours.

Tours from 84 GBP.

Book here!  

2. Get Your Guide

If you’re looking for something different and a little bit more unique, check out Get Your Guide. They have a huge collection of different walking tours that are much more niche. There are tea tours, street art tours, pub tours, park tours, dumpling tours — and everything in between. Prices and schedules are set by the guides, so be sure to inquire in advance as you can rarely just jump on them like most of the companies above.

Some suggested tours worth checking out include:

• Magical London: Harry Potter Walking Tour
• Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace
• Westminister in World War II
• Historic Pubs of Central London

3. London Walks

One of the biggest walking tour companies in London, they offer dozens of tours in London alone, as well as day trips to the Cotswolds, Oxford, Cambridge, Stonehenge, and Bath. They usually have four or five tours scheduled throughout the day. Most tours last two hours and operate rain or shine. I really dug their tours. They have very animated guides and keep a good pace. I highly recommend the Shakespeare tour, the one on classic London, and any of the pub crawls (alcohol not included).

Tours from 15 GBP.

4. Free London Walking Tours

This tiny company offers free walks from a few older British chaps that have the air of university professors. They tell silly jokes but also relate some of the most arcane facts of London history. Their tours tend to cover the dark side of London, like the “Fire, Pestilence and Plague” walk (about the plague) and Debauched London tour (about London’s history with beer). They tend to cover a lot of ground — physically and factually — but with their quirky stories, it never feels like a slog. The tours last a solid two hours. Just remember to tip!

5. Liquid History

This pub tour is a gentle two-mile walk that starts near St. Paul’s and ambles its way to the Strand and Covent Garden. The tour covers four traditional pubs and explains the country’s long brewing and drinking culture. Groups are small (capped at 14 people), and it’s the only tour company I know that offers a money-back guarantee. Tours last three hours and advance booking required.

Tours from 25 GBP (drinks not included).

6. Jack the Ripper Tours

There are a million Jack the Ripper tours in London. When I took mine, there were four others following the same path as we did. Who knew Jack the Ripper was such a big draw? If you take one during summertime, your group is going to be 20-50 people! While I can’t speak for the others, I took the original Jack the Ripper tour and found it to be one of the best walking tours of the entire trip. While explaining the Jack the Ripper murder mystery, the guide really brought you back to 1888 London and made you imagine how the city was then. My guide even wrote a book on Jack the Ripper!

Tickets from 15 GBP.

7. London Greeters

Greeter programs are local city initiatives that pair you with a local who can show you around the city for a few hours. These are passionate people who love their city and know a lot about their neighborhood! I didn’t have time to use the service in London but I’ve used it in other cities and am a huge fan of the initiative. It’s a fun way to learn about the city. It’s just you and your friends and the guide. The program is free but you need to set up a time in advance.

London is full of walking tours. The next time you’re here, take one of these tours. So often as tourists we wander the city but never really know the history of what we are looking at. Walking tours fill in that knowledge gap: you get to wander, meet new people, see the sights, take photos, and learn something.

I highly suggest starting with Take Walks , but you really can’t go wrong with any tour on this list!

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Book Your Trip to London: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite places to stay in the city are:

• St. Christopher’s Inn
• Astor Hyde Park Hostel

For more suggested places to stay, check out this longer list of hostels . If you’re wondering what part of town to stay in, here’s my neighborhood breakdown of London !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They save you money when you travel too.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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If you haven’t been to London before, one thing you should know is that London is VAST.

I have lived here for 7 years and done maybe 10% of what’s on offer.

It can be a dizzying process trying to figure out what to see and do in London, but I have the solution for you: taking a tour in London.

⭐️ Editor’s choice! ⭐️

The best overall tour in London is this Ultimate London Sightseeing Tour with 30+ attractions, a great price, and friendly local guide! (5 out of 5 ⭐️, 100 + reviews)

>>Click here to book in advance (recommended)

Now, I’m not saying to replace your entire London itinerary with tours.

But what I think is a great idea is to take one of these amazing tours of London towards the beginning of your stay so you can get a better feel for the city and what you might like to return to.

There are different types of tours in London, ranging from walking tours of the most important attractions in the city to night-time bus tours to tours for fans of certain television shows or movies (cough cough, Harry Potter).

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Wait, stop!

Before you keep reading, I just wanted to make sure you know about my expert 7-day London itinerary that includes all of the iconic attractions plus off-the-beaten path activities and restaurants, as well as step-by-step walking and public transportation directions!

It can be stressful spending so much money on a London trip and not knowing if you’re fitting everything in or making the most of your time.

To help you out, I’ve taken my 10 years of London experience (starting as a visitor and then as a resident) to make sure that you have the ultimate step-by-step itinerary that will make sure you see the real London.

And, hey, if you’re not coming for exactly 7 days or already have some plans, don’t worry, as it’s editable so you can mix around the days, incorporate your own ideas, or pick and choose which days to follow.

(or click here for my popular personalized itinerary option to exactly suit your needs !)

I’ve compiled some of the best London tours, both from personal experience and from their sky high ratings by other London visitors, to help you plan your next trip.

Oh, and top tip: if you do want to go on a top London tour, book it sooner rather than later as London is a very busy city and you don’t want your date to sell out!

The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

• 😍 Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
• 🎭 Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
• 🚕 Cheapest and most reliable airport transfer service: Welcome Pickups
• 🚉 Cheapest Way to Book Train and Bus Tickets: Omio
• 🔌 Most Reliable Adapter for UK Plugs: This one

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Check out the YouTube channel for more London tips

Best London Walking Tours

Despite London not being a city that is “walkable” in the sense that you can get from one end to the other in half an hour like some towns and cities, it is very much pedestrian-friendly and the vast majority of people who come to London do see sites by walking.

These London walking tours are some of my top picks for seeing the city and its secrets on foot.

1. Magical Harry Potter Walking Tour

I had to start with this Harry Potter walking tour because it’s the best of the best, the crème of the crop, the perfect choice for any individual, couple, or family who want to see all of the places in London that inspired JK Rowling AND many of the filming locations for the movies.

The tour takes about 2 and a half hours and your guide will take you to places like Platform 9 and ¾, the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron, the bridge that the dementors ruined in the sixth movie, and even Daniel Radcliffe’s school.

As you walk, you’ll also come across some famous London attractions in their own right, which makes this tour the perfect blend of London and Harry Potter history.

Click here to book the best Harry Potter walking tour , and do not delay because people LOVE themselves some Harry Potter so you don’t want it to sell out!

This doesn’t include the Harry Potter Studio Tour , which is in Watford, so add that on separately.

2. Westminster Walking Tour and Churchill War Rooms

“Westminster” is the iconic area of London that you might have seen on television or on the news – think Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the River Thames, the Churchill War Rooms.

If someone came to me and said they could only do one tour and they wanted to see “London,” this would be it – this is the London of your dreams and on your postcards.

The glorious thing about this walking tour of Westminster is that it also includes a guided tour around the Churchill War Rooms.

If you’re not familiar with the Churchill War Rooms , this is where Winston Churchill and top members of the British government hid out and led strategy for World War II – now, of course, it is well known in London where they are, but at the time they were essentially bunkers under Westminster.

Many of the artifacts and rooms have been preserved in their original states, and it’s a really incredible historically preserved and interactive museum.

You can book tickets to Churchill War Rooms separately from this tour, but when you combine the ticket prices and the cost of walking tours, you’re getting more for your money when combining it, and you’ll also have a great appreciation for how the Churchill War Rooms fit into the overall landscape of Westminster by seeing some sites around the local area as well.

3. Jack the Ripper Walking Tour: one of the best London tours

The classic horror story of Jack the Ripper and his London murders still permeates the culture of today’s East End – at least if you believe the guides on this Jack the Ripper Walking Tour !

There are a ton of Jack the Ripper Walking tours in London, but this is my favorite as I think you get really good value for the price and it’s one of the best tours in London. 

You’ll learn the story of this infamous criminal, hear the stories of how his victims fell into his traps, and see the spots where he murdered some of his most infamous victims.

This tour is not for small children who would be easily scared, but if you like a little bit of gore with your London visit, this is it.

4. Chelsea Football Club Tour: among the best tours in London

Chelsea Football Club does the BEST walking tours for visitors who are interested in learning more about English football (what Americans call soccer).

You don’t have to be a Chelsea fan to enjoy this tour (though of course it’s welcomed), as anyone will appreciate the information and sites you get to see.

The tour lasts about an hour and takes you to areas that normally only the players and press get to access.

From the press desk to the home locker room to the field itself, you’ll learn what makes one of the greatest football stadiums in the world so popular.

This is an excellent choice for any London visitors interested in sports, and it’s short enough that you can easily fit it into any visit.

5. Guided Tour of Shakespeare’s Globe

While you can see Shakespeare’s Globe from the inside while booking tickets to see a show, the only way to really get an understanding for this famous structure is to take this guided tour .

Shakespeare’s Globe is such an iconic part of London and noticeable as soon as you head to the river, and it really boggles the mind that this is the place (well, the faithfully recreated place) that he wrote his plays to be performed in.

Any theatre lovers should make sure to add this to their London list .

At about 90 minutes and with a very central location, you can fit this into your visit and you’ll leave having a new awe and appreciation for the world of Shakespeare.

6. London Rock ‘n’ Roll History Tour: best London city tours

Whether you’re a fan of the Beatles, Hendrix, or the many other names that have come out of the London Rock ‘n’ Roll scene, this walking tour will talk you past the iconic places that have been visited, played at, or lived in by some of the world’s most famous musicians.

This is a fantastic London walking tour for music lovers, and a great surprise if you’ve got a fan in tow!

7. Alternative London 2-Hour Street Art Walking Tour

Street art is prevalent in London’s East End, not as graffiti to deface property, but as beautiful expressions of art covering up some quite frankly gritty looking building, underpasses, and more.

And, of course, the famous Banksy is known for his work in London!

This walking tour is for art lovers who want to see a different side of the London art world far removed from the pristine halls of the National Gallery.

8. Historical Pub Walking Tour

Whether you like history or just want to try brews from some famous London pubs, this pub walking tour is a great way to see the city with a guide while exploring hidden streets and learning the ins and outs of London pub culture.

This is super popular and sells out quickly, so make sure to book in advance if you definitely want to go.

Best London Bus Tours

One of the most shocking things for me to learn when I first moved to London was that the double decker buses weren’t just tourist buses!

They were real ones!

Commuters and Londoners use double decker buses to get around London on the daily.

However, these aren’t going to point out any sites for you and you’ll probably be squashed in with a million people, so to guarantee a comfy seat and some guided narration of the sites around you, book yourself onto a London bus tour for visitors that still take advantage of the double decker layout.

9. Night-time Open Top Bus Tour: one of the best guided tours London

I am such a fan of London at night .

It’s really enchanting and magical and just looks so much different than the daytime.

This open top bus tour takes places at night and includes 90 minutes of a live guide showing you around the city from an open-top bus.

In my opinion, this is a must-do.

You’ll also see some iconic London attractions at night, such as Tower Bridge, the Tower of London , Big Ben and more.

A combination of historic and present-day narration helps you appreciate London in a whole new way.

Over 1,000 people have taken this tour and rated it highly, and I think it’s the perfect addition to a London itinerary.

Here’s an idea – do it the first night you arrive to make sure that you stay awake and get over that jet lag!

Nothing like seeing the city you’re in without having to do too much walking AND having the refreshing night air in your face.

10. Original London Hop-On and Hop-Off Bus Sightseeing Tour

Every city has their own hop-on and hop-off bus sightseeing tours , but none are more iconic than London.

I have been on this one and think it’s a fantastic option, both for visitors and for those who live in London and have people visiting.

There’s something about the hop-on and hop-off bus tour that gives you both structure and freedom when exploring a new city.

You’ll have a full map that tells you all of the bus lines, along with narration as you go from place to place. This makes it a great thing to do in London with kids as you don’t have to worry about navigating.

You can also buy multiple day tickets so you can use these are your way to get around primarily as they hit all of the major London attractions and visitor areas.

There are quite a few bus companies nowadays who operate hop-on and hop-off bus tours, but these are my pick and also the highest rated from other visitors so make sure to plan in advance and not just get swept up into some random bus that someone on the street offers you access to!

11. Comedy Horror Show: London Ghost Bus Tour

Who doesn’t love a ghost tour ?

Of course because this is London, there has to be a sense of humor in it as well.

For an evening activity that will keep the whole family entertained, enjoy this comedy horror show that takes you to some of the spookiest places in London (from the safety of your bus, of course, scaredy cats) and gives you some gory details about some of the street’s seedy pasts.

I love this bus tour for its uniqueness – you can find ghost tours and you can find comedy shows, but combining them makes for a killer (GET IT?!) combination and I think it’s a must do.

There are also live actors on board and a backstory to go with the bus, so get ready for a really immersive experience that will also teach you something at the same time.

12. Beatles in London Tour (Bus)

Beatles fans, listen up!

Your bus tour is here , it’s awesome, and it’s taking you to see all of the places in London that have been touched, walked over, lived in or looked at by the famous music group.

London is the second best place to Liverpool to experience Beatle mania, so if you can’t make it to Liverpool during your time in the UK, you must book onto this amazing London tour to learn the history behind the Beatles in London and see some of the most popular places (Abbey Road is waiting for you) for yourself.

This tour takes place in the evening, and it is run in a mini bus with stops along the way, which means that you will definitely get to take your own walk across the famous street and actually get up close to and interact with the sights.

Best London Boat Tours

The River Thames runs through the heart of London and can’t be forgotten when it comes to talking about the best tours of London.

This is the soul of the city, the reason it was founded, and seeing London from the vantage point of the river will really help you understand how the city is connected in a whole new way.

Don’t worry about the weather, either, as Londoners are used to having to deal with all kinds of precipitation, so you’ll be able to find shelter on your cruise if Mother Nature isn’t cooperating.

13. River Thames Hop-On and Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise

Like a Hop-On and Hop-Off London bus tour, the River Thames sightseeing cruise is an iconic London tour that lets you get off and on at various London docks throughout the city.

This is a fantastic way to get to some of the most popular attractions, as they’re built up around the river.

For instance, Big Ben, Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe – all on the river banks!

The Hop-Off and Hop-On nature also means you’re not just floating down the river and seeing these attractions without being able to get off.

You can choose to get off and explore at your leisure, or take the river loop in full.

14. River Thames Speedboat Tour

If you want an awesome experience for families and those with a need for speed, check out the River Thames Speedboat tour .

This is a London tour like no other, seeing the sights from a (perfectly safe and licensed) speedboat.

We’ve done tours like these in Dover on the Dover Sea Safari Tour and we had the absolutely best time.

You’re still getting to see the sights, but you truly feel like you’re on the set of James Bond or some other action film as you’re bouncing along down the river.

15. London Afternoon Tea Cruise on the River Thames

The complete opposite of the River Thames Speedboat tour is the afternoon tea cruise.

This very British London tour involves a classic afternoon tea in London while you watch the world go by and float down the river.

It’s truly an experience to remember, and as both a river cruise and an afternoon tea are quintessential parts of a London visit, this is really making the most out of your time and money.

What else should I not miss in London?

If you’re visiting London soon, here’s a very brief rundown of a few of my other favorites to make sure you don’t miss anything!

• Hidden London Walking Tour – this tour is the absolute best if you want to see London in a different light and uncover hidden nooks, crannies, and histories that you won’t get on your normal, run-of-the-mill London walking tour. Click here to check prices and book.
• Historical Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill War Rooms – if you’re a history buff or even mildly interested in all of the insane things that have happened in London, particular during the wars, you have to book this tour which is an absolute bargain for the tour + entry to the Churchill War Rooms (basically two must-dos in one). Click here to check prices and book .
• Cutest London Afternoon Tea on a Bus – want to see the sights and enjoy afternoon tea at the same time on the upper deck? Yes, absolutely you do. This afternoon tea is a real delight and helps you get out and about while also putting your pinkies up. Click here to check prices and book.

Want more helpful London guides? Check these out!

• 45 Things to Do in London at Night
• 53 Things to Do in London for Couples
• 57 Quirky and Unusual Things to Do in London
• 11 Tourist Traps to Avoid in London
• 41 Best Things to Do in London with Kids
• 21 Best Castles Near London
• 15 Best London Hotels
• 17 Best Street Food Markets in London
• 15 Best Areas to Stay in London
• 23 Best Afternoon Teas in London
• 25 Best London Museums
• 33 Free Things to Do in London
• 21 Best London Markets
• 21 Best London Apps
• 23 Best Pubs in London
• 35 Best Restaurants in London
• 21 Harry Potter Things to Do in London
• 35 Things to Do in London in the Rain
• 25 Best Art Museums in London
• 17 Famous London Filming Locations
• 25 Best Places to Shop in London
• 35 Best Day Trips from London
• 31 Best Parks in London
• 41 Most Instagrammable Places in London
• 27 Best Views in London
• 27 Best Birthday Ideas in London
• 29 Best London Cinemas
• 29 Best Things to Buy in London
• 41 Things to Do in London Alone

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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