Walking London Guided London Walking Tours
We are a guided tour company offering historical walks in London. Join us as we explore one of the most fascinating cities in the world.
London has something to offer for everyone; history, culture, the familiar, the hidden and the bizarre – the list goes on. Our guides will take you to parts of London that are away from the well-trodden tourist trail.
Walks last from between 2 and 3 hours.
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At Walking London, we offer extraordinary bespoke tours designed to cater to both corporate and higher education groups.
We understand that the needs and expectations of businesses and academic institutions differ, which is why we've meticulously curated tours that blend culture, history, and education to create unique and unforgettable experiences in the heart of London.
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As well as our scheduled tours we are happy to organise walks for groups of friends, family, clubs, societies and work colleagues.
Just select a date and time to suit you and get in touch . We can also offer free, no obligation taster walks for group organisers where we can discuss your specific requirements and give you a good idea of what to expect.
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Westminster and Whitehall Four Palaces and a Cathedral
Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, Downing Street, The Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace are all readily recognisable and familiar. However, behind the familiar they all have stories and tales that are less well known. Our circular walk, starting and finishing at Trafalgar Square tells the story of these well-known sites and uncovers some of their more curious secrets.
King’s Cross to Farringdon Trains, Drains and Revolutionaries
As London grew rapidly in the 18th and 19th centuries, the area between King’s Cross and Farringdon changed beyond all recognition. Our walk explores the engineering marvels of the Victorian age, the struggles faced by ordinary people in a rapidly growing city and uncovers some of the darker tales of yesteryear.
Belgravia’s Historic Pubs Walk Explore the hidden back street gems of London…
It’s hard to believe that one of the most expensive residential districts in Europe was once an area of marshy land known as Five Fields. Join us as we trace the history of this exclusive area and go behind the scenes to visit the pubs that would have been frequented by the footmen, stable boys and servants. Visiting 5 pubs in total we will end our tour with a visit to The Star for a final drink and a bite to eat.
City of London Walk a circular walk of the City
From the Romans to medieval London. From Pepys to Dickens. Our walk takes us on into the 20th Century to uncover a world of firewatchers, ARP wardens and auxiliary firefighters. The City of London was a prime target for the Luftwaffe. Our walk will tell a story of bravery and courage in the face of, at times, overwhelming odds.
Sex & Drugs & Rock ’n’ roll Tour around Soho
Our new historical London walk takes us to a relatively small part of London, but one which has plenty of tales to tell! London’s playground for over 200 years. Starting at Tottenham Court Station and finishing in Chinatown this walk is a reminder that “The web of our life is of a mingled yarn, good and ill together.”
Pubs and Pirates from St Paul’s to Canary Wharf
Sticking to the riverside path this walk runs from the familiar splendour of St Pauls to the less familiar waterfront at Wapping. Revisit the haunts of the press gangs, pirates and their pursuers. An opportunity to see a rapidly changing London alongside a London that would have been familiar to the merchants and seafarers of the 18th century.
East End Markets from Hackney to Spitalfields
A stroll through the vibrant and ever changing landscape of the East End. On this walk you will encounter fashion, food and flowers as well as former slums and highly desirable Georgian townhouses. In other words an opportunity for a bit of history and a spot of retail therapy. Please note, this walk is only available on a Sunday.
Markets, Kites and Canals King’s Cross to Primrose Hill
In between the story of an expanding and changing London there is an opportunity to enjoy some of the best views of the capital on offer. Much of this walk follows the canal towpath and is an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern capital.
A Monopoly of Power and Wealth Tour around Mayfair and St James’s
Tour the most expensive parts of the Monopoly board. Bustling and vibrant, this walk takes in some of the most expensive addresses in the world. Many sights will be familiar, many less so. Our walk finishes on the Thames embankment.
In the Wake of the Boat Race from Putney to Barnes via Chiswick
Starting at Putney Bridge, this is a walk almost entirely free of traffic, our route follows the Thames Path both north and south of the river as we explore a world of boat houses and clubs, riverside pubs and striking architecture. The route takes us past Fuller’s Brewery at Chiswick.
Dickens at Christmas Get into the spirit of Christmas…
For fans of A Christmas Carol and of Charles Dickens generally, this is the walk for you! Get into the spirit of Christmas and step back to take a look at London as Charles Dickens would have seen it 150 years ago. Join us as we visit the places that featured in Dickens’ life and work and inspired him to create characters as dark, as joyous and as complex as Scrooge, Jacob Marley, the Cratchit family and as we are approaching Christmas we’ll do our best to banish all thoughts of ‘Bah humbug!!
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The 15 best walking tours in London
Those boots were made for walking, so use them to explore London’s best sights
London’s one of the most walkable capital cities in the world. Indeed, in many ways, London is the anti-L.A.: here people think you’re mad if you do drive a car around town. Besides, nothing quite lets you get to know a city like a good walk around – after all, London existed long before there were any forms of public or private transport more sophisticated than a horse. Plus, after trekking across half the city, you have the perfect excuse to sit down with a pint (or two).
Sure, bus and boat tours are good, but there’s nothing quite like a London walking tour. From basic sightseeing treks to specialised theme tours, whether you’ve got a day, an afternoon or just an hour, there’s some sort of tour out there for you. Buckle up, folks: here’s our pick of the best walking tours in London.
Need more sightseeing inspiration? Check out our list of 101 things to do in London .
This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .
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London walking tours
1. Food Walking tour: West to East
If you’ve got half a day to space and a burning curiosity to find out what exactly constitutes British cuisine (and then to eat it) this epic trek should be firmly up your street. Tuck into a six-hour walking tour that will take you from Buckingham Palace (where you'll witness the Changing of the Guard) past the Houses of Parliament and onto the Tower of London, where you'll surely be ready for the delicious British delights that await. Try fish and chips, scotch eggs, pie and mash and a so-called famous doughnut (not sure about that last one tbh), before venturing over the bridge to peruse the sights and smells of delicious Borough Market.
2. Kensington Palace Gardens tour with Royal High Tea
If you're after an excuse to wear something other than wellies, visit the gorgeous Kensington Gardens on a guided tour before sitting down and nibbling scones at Royal High Tea. The two-hour tour is soaked in royal history and all the best bits of being British (tea and cake, mostly). Although entry to the buildings isn't included, you'll be walked and talked through the gardens, marvelling at the water features and Sunken Garden, with a visit to Princess Diana's statue and ending with an indulgent high tea in the surroundings of the Kensington Palace Pavilion. How marvy!
3. Three-hour secret British food tour
Three hours of food and snacks? Yes, please! This three-hour guided tour includes eight delicious stops in the London Bridge area, giving you an insight into the history of British food culture (which is very cultured, might we add). Starting in the historic Borough Market, you'll eat your way through classics and end the tour with quintessentially British desserts and tea. Plus, on your travels, your tour guide will enlighten you on the history of each area and there'll be a secret surprise dish, too. Our tip: wear stretchy bottoms.
4. Harry Potter walking tour
Anyone who’s seen or read the adventures of the Boy Who Lived (and if you haven’t, have you been living under a rock?) will know that London is a recurring character in both the films and books. Follow in Harry’s footsteps with this 150-minute jaunt, which goes from the ‘real’ Diagon Alley through to The Leaky Cauldron, Platform 9¾ and other fantastical locales. Being Muggles, there’s obviously a bit of a limit to what we can actually see – but that won’t stop you from soaking up the magical atmosphere.
5. Westminster and the Churchill War Rooms
Few Brits have a bigger reputation than wartime PM and noted cigar smoker Sir Winston. So what better way to get a feel for the capital than via Churchill’s London? In two hours your Blue Badge guide will take you to see an array of major Westminster landmarks associated with the man, such as Big Ben and Downing Street, alongside the poignant Cenotaph war memorial. Walkers will then be led to Churchill's wartime bunker, where you can see several items that once belonged to big man, discover top-secret conversations that went on down there and soak up the drama of the room in which the fate of the world was shaped so long ago.
6. Changing of the Guard guided walking tour
No experience is more quintessentially London than the Changing of the Guard: that is to say when one group of soldiers clock off and the next clocks on – with much ceremony – at Buckingham Palace. Your knowledgeable guide will also take you to see palaces, royal parks, royal residences and you'll even have an opportunity to march alongside the guards. The walk is aimed at all ages, with interesting insights for adults and plenty of fun for kids.
7. Gangster walking tour of London’s East End led by actor Vas Blackwood
East London is definitely no Longer the gangland of yore: if the Krays twins were around today they’d probably own some sort of ironic theme cafe. But there’s a rich and thrilling not-so-distant-past there, and this tour is particularly special Led by ‘Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels’ actor Vas Blackwood (aka Rory Breaker), who'll share his wealth of knowledge about the villains – both fictional and real – of London’s murky underworld. Over the two-hour tour you'll hear tales of the notorious Kray twins around Whitechapel and see iconic ‘Lock, Stock…’ locations from the much-loved Brit gangster flick.
8. Historic pub walking tour
You could probably spend years working through London’s endless array of pubs and not really scratch the surface. But this three-hour afternoon tour is a decent start. Discover storied alehouses and literary drinking dens on a journey that stretches from ancient Southwark to the shiny West End, on a walk guaranteed to visit at least four of the capital’s finest historic boozers. Hear the history of the buildings, learn the differences between Elizabethan coaching inns and Victorian gin palaces, and visit the watering holes frequented by Charles Dickens – and have yourself a pint, if that's how you’re inclined.
9. Private Sherlock Holmes walking tour
Explore the world of Arthur Conan Doyle’s Great Detective – plus his beloved sidekick Dr Watson, of course – on this private three-hour walking tour of London. Visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum (entry ticket not included), located at Holmes’ home of 221b Baker Street with your personal guide. Explore central London sites made famous in the filming of the Benedict Cumberbatch-starring adaptation ‘Sherlock’, such as Russell Square or New Scotland Yard. Along the way, lap up behind-the-scenes stories from the set.
10. Blood and Tears walk
If you’re in the mood for something a little gristlier, then why not set a couple of hours aside one night to exploore the capital's dark side? You’ll be taken on a journey through the darker bits of the city’s past that includes visiting execution sites, learning about grave robbers and meet London's most notorious murderers as you wander from Barbican to Holborn. Unsurprisingly, a few details in this one are a little ghastly, so it's very much open to ages 12+ only (plus the 7pm start is past the little ’uns bedtimes).
11. Greenwich highlights half-day walking tour
Perhaps no London borough is quite so distinctive singular as maritime Greenwich, and this fun and educational half-day tour comes highly recommended. All the major venues are on the walk, including the Royal Observatory, National Maritime Museum, the Cutty Sark, Old Royal Naval College, Queen’s House and Greenwich Market. Put on your comfiest boots and join your knowledgeable guide to experience the majesty of Britain’s naval zenith and meet the spot where Thor had a fight with Christopher Eccleston in ‘The Dark World’. This tour is led in small groups, so there’ll be no pushing or shoving.
12. Jack the Ripper tour with fish and chips
No name gets shivers running down the spine quite like Jack the Ripper, the infamous, never caught serial killer who terrorised the foggy streets of late Victorian London. See the sinister side of the city as you follow the blood-soaked footsteps of Jack and Sweeney Todd, wandering down gas-lit alleyways on a very spooky walking tour of London. Arriving at each scary spot by coach, your guide will dish out shocking true-life details about these infamous London murderers. Get goosebumps at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the most haunted theatre in the city, and hear stories of the Ripper’s East End. Then polish the night off in style with a fish supper at a traditional East End boozer.
13. Bowl of Chalk walking tours
The name? It's Cockney rhyming slang for 'walk'! So that’s 'Walk walking tours’, which admittedly doesn’t have quite the same ring. Maybe don’t quibble about that to Jonnie, the born-and-bred Londoner with a passion for taking people on walks around the city and sharing some of its secrets. His weekend tours are fun, laidback and – best of all for the budget conscious– delivered on a 'pay what you can' basis. Private weekday tours can be booked too: take a look on the website for further details.
14. Unseen Tours
These alternative, extremely worthwhile tours are run by The Sock Mob, a social enterprise that works with homeless, ex-homeless or vulnerably housed people. And the guides who lead the four different tours of four very different bits of London – that’s Covent Garden, London Bridge, Soho and Brick Lane – have all experienced homelessness at some time in their lives. This absolutely doesn’t mean the tours are gruelling misery porn that dwells on the hardship of the guides’ lives – far from it! Actually they're fun, laidback journeys through each area's local history, with a few important details about social injustice thrown in too.
15. East End street art walking tour
If you’re a Londoner, there’s a decent chance that you’re not so bothered about the historical side of walking tours. After all, you’re up to speed. You know it all. So here’s the chance to get to know a very different side to the capital. This two-hour tour takes attendees through the street art of the East End, wandering through alleys and markets and telling the stories of artworks through the artists that made them. Learn whose tags are whose and discover the history and meaning behind the art adorning the walls of this historic district.
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Lady’s 5 Historical Walks in London You’ll Love Taking
Today I want to share my top picks for historical walks in London with you. These self-guided London walking tours are great ways to get into the city’s past and discover the layers of heritage that make the UK capital special. If you love history, they’re perfect London walks for you to take to explore the city’s past from ancient times to modern ones. Read on for the routes, maps, photos, and videos.
Historical Walks in London
From Roman ruins in the City of London to Palladian residences in Greenwich, my self-guided historical walks in London will take you to some of the most iconic places in the city.
You’ll pass by big attractions like Westminster Abbey and lesser-known landmarks like the 12th-century Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great. Along the way, you’ll get a feel for London’s architectural history.
But it’s not all old stuff. London is a living city, and its streets and squares are ever-changing. Interspersed among the heritage buildings you’ll find colorful street art, vibrant markets, and great shops, restaurants, pubs, and cafes.
I hope you enjoy these London history tours as much as I’ve enjoyed creating them. My self-guided London walks are fun ways to see the UK capital and get some exercise while you’re at it.
You can read about more lovely walks in the book London’s Hidden Walks as well. You can get it on Amazon here . There are more ideas in my London walking books post, too.
1. City of London Walk
First on my list of historical walks in London is one in the City of London . This area has some of the richest history and most important heritage buildings in the UK capital.
This walk will transport you through past and present, wide squares and hidden courtyards, historic halls and centuries-old pubs.
Along the way you’ll see everything from the Tower of London to St Paul’s Cathedral and The Monument to the Great Fire of London.
This walk is ideal if you want to delve into London’s deepest roots. You can find the directions, map, photos, and video on my City of London walking tour blog post.
2. Greenwich Walk
Next on my list of historical London walking tours is Greenwich . This part of the city is known for its maritime history, royal residences, famous observatory, covered market, and great London views .
My self-guided London walk will take you from the River Thames to the Royal Observatory and through the markets and side streets.
Along the route you’ll take in everything from the Cutty Sark to the National Maritime Museum, Old Royal Naval College, and London skyline.
This walk is perfect if you like a mix of culture, shopping, and history. You can find the full route, map, photos, and video on my Greenwich walk blog post.
3. Spitalfields Walk
When it comes to east London history walks, my Spitalfields walk is a good choice. Spitalfields is one of the city’s most vibrant areas. Historic houses and buildings sit side-by-side with contemporary street art, markets, and pop-ups.
This London walk goes through the neighborhood’s colorful streets and hidden lanes. Along the way you’ll pass everything from 18th-century Huguenot silk weavers’ homes to pretty almshouses.
Sunday is the best day to be here, as the Sunday markets on and around Brick Lane are legendary. You can make a day of this walk if you take your time and explore them all.
This walk is perfect if you enjoy a mix of history and shopping. You can find the route, map, photos, and video on my Spitalfields walking tour blog post.
4. Westminster Walk
Next on my list of historical walks in London is one in Westminster . This area is home to a lot of big attractions, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.
My self-guided London walk will take you from Parliament Square to Smith Square and beyond. The route will guide you past historic highlights like the 19th-century Victoria Tower and the 14th-century Jewel Tower.
This walk is a great choice if you like London landmarks and hidden corners alike. You can find the route, map, and photos on my Westminster walk blog post.
5. Clerkenwell Walk
My fifth historical walk in London goes through Clerkenwell and the surrounding area. This part of the UK capital is full of heritage. It’s home to some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in London, too.
My self-guided London walking tour in Clerkenwell will take you through historic passageways, under stone archways, and down an alley with an old pub hidden in it.
As you go from Clerkenwell to Smithfield and Hatton Garden, you’ll pass everything from the 16th-century St Bartholomew’s Gatehouse to the 13th-century St Etheldreda’s Church.
You’ll also walk down Exmouth Market, one of the best foodie streets in London. It’s a great place to stop for a meal or drink along the way.
This London walk is just the thing if you like history and food in equal measure. You can find the route, map, photos, and video on my Clerkenwell walking tour blog post.
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these self-guided London walking tours as much as I’ve enjoyed coming up with the routes and maps. Historic details are some of the best things about London, and these tours are a great way to to see them.
Beyond the walks, I’ve published a lot more about London’s history. From a blog post with a historic London travel itinerary to a guide to London architecture history , there’s plenty to delve into.
I have more self-guided historical London walks in the pipeline, too. They’ll all end up here and on my London walking map once I’ve published them. You can bookmark this page or pin it on Pinterest to see the new ones as I add them. Happy walking!
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One of the links in this blog post is an affiliate link. At no cost to you, I earn a small commission when you click on it and make a purchase. It doesn’t affect the way you shop, and it’s a great way to support the A Lady in London blog.
4 Comments on Lady’s 5 Historical Walks in London You’ll Love Taking
Thank you so much for your tour. I wish London to preserve its historical attitude in spite of the modern temptations. The buildings (especially the less good-looking), their arrangement can lecture on the city’s history. Thank you so much. Greetings from Minsk, Belarus (between Russia and Poland)
You’re welcome! I’m glad you like London’s history.
It was wonderful taking this tour from the comfort of my couch. Being there in person would be even better, but right now I would have to use a wheelchair to do the walk. Thank you for making it so real!
You’re welcome!
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13 Best Historical Tours of London to Book in 2024
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Looking for the best Historical Tours of London?
From Westminster to the Churchill War Rooms, Jack the Ripper, Changing of the Guards, and East London Street Art , these intriguing history tours in London allow you to dive deeper into the city’s fascinating past and appreciate your trip even more!
London is an ancient city with a beautiful historic character. Tangible elements of the city’s past can be found around almost every corner and alleyway.
I’m a local in London, and I still feel like I have so much more to learn about the city!
The best way to learn about the charming, historical side of the city is by taking one of the top historical walking tours London has to offer! You’ll get an up-close perspective and discover the city in a fun and interactive way with an expert.
Best Historical Tours In London
Each tour travels through some of the interesting London walking routes and teaches you essential historical facts that even Londoners struggle to remember from their high school history class.
Most of these experiences are historic London walking tours, so be ready for a day on your feet! These historical tours of London are also led by London historians who are passionate about teaching and take pride in sharing their city with travelers!
1. Hidden London Walking Tours
On this tour, you’ll follow your guide along the quiet side streets of the city. Journey off the beaten path to London’s most unusual sights.
On the historical and unusual walking tour of London’s hidden attractions, you’ll get to;
- Visit an old Cabman’s shelter. This was an area where cab drivers would go to seek shelter, food, or drinks during the second half of the 19th century.
- Discover the Temple Church, built by the mysterious Knights Templar (Assassin’s Creed fans will love this).
- See London’s ‘Roman Bath’ and the abandoned Aldwych tube station. Explore the location of the legendary barber of Fleet Street, Sweeney Todd.
This walking tour is full of weird and wonderful stops. You’ll be entertained by stories of history and mystery the entire way.
Book a Historical Walking Tour of London’s Hidden Sites
2. East London Walking Tours
Discover the alternative sights of East London on this art-focused walking tour. This tour explores the diverse creativity of London’s most trendy neighborhood, admiring urban art and graffiti from around 40 artists along the way.
If you are artsy and interested in graffiti/street art, this tour is for you! You’ll even get to see first-hand the unconventional art of Banksy, ROA, Invader, and Shepherd Fairy in East London!
Meet your guide near the Old Spitalfields Marke and learn the history of the East End as you walk through streets covered in art. Your guide will give you a unique insight into the urban art culture of London.
On the tour, you’ll walk through Brick Lane and the stylish Shoreditch area. Learn about the unconventional art of Banksy, ROA, Invader, and Shepherd Fairy.
East London is one of the city’s most vibrant areas. If you’re looking for a walking tour London offers that explores the city’s edgy side, this tour is perfect for you.
Book an East London Walking Tour
3. City of London – Historic Pubs Walking Tours
This Historical Pub Walking Tour of London takes you to four of the city’s most historic pubs, taverns, and alehouses.
Quench your thirst and mingle with your fellow beer and history enthusiasts as you learn about London’s proud beer culture – which goes back hundreds of years. You’ll even get to walk the ancient streets of London to a tavern that was established back in 1549.
Of course, you’ll be able to enjoy a drink or two along the way, too!
On this historical tour of London, you’ll walk from historic Southwark to the bright lights of the West End – London’s theatre district.
Another perk is that the tour is kept small to provide a more personal experience.
Book a Historical Pub Tour London
4. British Museum & London Historical Guided Walking Tour
This walking tour is for the culture vultures and history buffs visiting London. It combines a trip to the British Museum with exploring the most famous historical places in London.
The tour begins at the British Museum where you’ll explore 6000 years of human history through artifacts. A tour guide will lead you through this large museum and give you a more detailed understanding of the collections.
A few of the highlights include seeing Samurai Armour, the Rosetta Stone, and the Mummy of Katebet.
After the museum, you’ll head to the streets of London to visit more of the UK’s most iconic sites.
These stops include Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, and more. Of course, your tour guide will be filling you in on interesting history surrounding each attraction and other fun facts!
This tour lasts for approximately 5 hours, so wear comfortable walking shoes!
If you’re a history buff looking for the best walking tours of London, you’ll gain a comprehensive historical overview of the city.
Book a British Museum and Iconic Sites Historical Tour
5. Historic Spaces – City of London Walking Tour
Travel to eight of London’s green, open spaces and receive a unique perspective of the city’s history. You’ll see churches that lay in ruins, crumbling graveyards, and tranquil parks with many tales to tell.
The tour starts at the rose gardens of St. Paul’s Cathedral. This church once held medieval royal burials.
Next, visit a brutalist development built to reinvigorate the city following WWII and a fascinating area used as a mass gravesite during the 14th century, which is actually a new discovery in London. It was used to bury those killed in public executions.
Finish up the tour by visiting a 17th-century theatre and a cemetery where dissenters and radicals were buried.
This tour is an excellent guide to the non-touristy areas of London . It’s also a great option for people wishing to see a unique side of the city.
Book a Walking tour of London’s Historic Spaces
6. Historic Shakespeare Pub and Theatre Walking Tour
Explore William Shakespeare’s life in London with a tour guide who is also a published author.
You’ll travel to iconic sites associated with the great playwright, including five pubs connected with Shakespeare.
Visit the London theatres, where Shakespeare’s works have been performed, see the church where a member of his family is buried, and explore the sites of two of the most famous Elizabethan theatres.
Of all the history tours in London, this one is perfect for those who want to learn what the impact of Shakespeare’s success in London had on his family back in Stratford-upon-Avon.
You’ll hear about his incredible life and career from your knowledgeable guide and even have a drink at the only property in London that can be identified as being owned by Shakespeare.
Also, this tour visits the grounds of a medieval monastery where you’ll see the site of an indoor theatre that stood in Shakespeare’s time before finishing up with one last drink in a unique Art Deco pub nearby.
7. Downton Abbey Walking Tour
On the tour, you’ll explore the quaint historical sites in London where the TV series “Downton Abbey” was filmed and get a glimpse into how the high-end citizens of London lived.
Visit charming and tranquil settings within London that have stood in for other UK cities like Liverpool and Manchester.
Learn how they were used as film locations. Hear fun facts and behind-the-scenes information about how this award-winning TV show was made.
You’ll be able to relive all your favourite moments from the show and even stand where Branson first confesses his love to Lady Sybil. The tour also visits the exterior of Grantham House where the character of Uncle Harold was introduced and looks into the restaurant where Edith dined with Gregson.
This is hands down the best London tour for fans of the hit TV show “Downton Abbey”.
Book A Downton Abbey Walking Tour
8. Jack the Ripper Tour in London’s East End
Jack the Ripper is among England’s most notorious serial killers. He terrorised the citizens (mainly women) of London during the late 19th century and sent shock waves through the city.
On this walking tour of London, you’ll step back in time to 1888 and discover the world that the Ripper and his victims lived in.
Learn about the gruesome crimes that the Ripper committed, to social/historical context of the era, and visit the very sites where the murders took place.
Your guide will fill you in on the facts and rumours that surround these disturbing unsolved cases. This is hands-down one of the best tours of London for fans of true crime.
Book a Jack the Ripper Walking Tour
9. Westminster and the Churchill War Rooms
On this walking tour, you’ll explore the Westminster area and visit 20 of Britain’s most iconic and historical London landmarks, including Winston Churchill’s Bunker .
First, you’ll meet your group and start your tour in one of the Royal Parks of London – the beautiful Green Park.
Then, before heading to Westminster, you’ll stop to witness the famous Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. This is a traditional London experience you don’t want to miss.
Continue on to the stunning Westminster Abbey, getting a glimpse of nearby sites, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Queen Victoria Fountain, and Trafalgar Square.
Next, visit the Churchill War Rooms. This was an underground nerve centre used by the British Prime Minister during WWII.
Discover the rich history of this fascinating place from which Churchill directed the Second World War.
Book this walking tour of Westminster and the Churchill War Rooms
10. Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tours
The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a quintessential London experience. With a guided walking tour, you’ll get an in-depth look at this British tradition.
Follow your guide through the busy crowds as you’re led to the best vantage point to watch the ceremony take place.
See the iconic red tunics and bearskin hats as the Queen’s Foot Guard march to the palace.
You’ll be equipped with your own personal headset so your guide can entertain you with commentary about the ceremony.
Learn about the royal family and how this fascinating practice is carried out – from beginning to end.
Book a Changing of the Guard Historical Tour
11. London Old City Walking Tour
On this walking tour, you’ll travel back to the very beginning of London. Discover the original square mile – nestled beside the River Thames.
This area has seen some of the most significant events in British history and it also contains some of London’s oldest buildings.
Learn about these important events as you travel to different sites. Some highlights include visiting the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, the site of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London.
Hear stories of the great fire of London, the plague, and the Blitz during WWII.
You’ll also visit some of the city’s modern sites, like the Millennium Bridge, the Tate Modern Art Gallery, and the Tower Bridge.
This tour covers a lot of history and provides an excellent overview of the city.
Book an Old City Historical Tour of London
12. London Ghastly Ghosts 2-Hour Walking Tour
On this walking tour, you’ll discover London’s intriguing haunted history. This tour only takes place after dusk, setting the mood for a spine-chilling experience.
You’ll start the tour at one of the oldest churches in London, All Hallows by the Tower. Your journey will take you from the Tower of London to St Paul’s Cathedral.
Along the way, you’ll hear stories of suffering, crime, and murder. That sounds like a really good night in my books – I’m a horror fan, so love all the gruesome details of ghost stories, murders, and everything in between.
London’s past is full of terrible tales and mysterious hauntings. Enjoy a spooky walk through this ancient city.
Wind through the dark streets and past desolate alleyways. Learn about the city’s ghosts, ghouls, and demons.
If you’re into murder-mystery and haunted history, this tour will captivate you.
Book a Ghastly Haunted History Tour of London
13. London World War II Blitz Walk and Imperial War Museum
On this historic walking tour, you’ll learn about the impact of World War II on England.
In 1940, London was bombed by the Germans continuously for 57 days. Follow your guide through the city streets and learn about the events that left part of London in rubble during WWII.
See buildings where the scars of the attacks are still visible. Hear tales of heroism, including how ordinary men and women helped to save London’s beloved St Paul’s Cathedral from destruction.
This tour also includes a trip to the Imperial War Museum. Discover a vast collection of WWII-related documents, photographs and videos, military vehicles, aircraft, and military weapons.
Book a London WWII Blitz Walk Tour
Conclusion: Best Historial Tours of London
That’s all for this round-up of the best historical tours of London.
There are quite a few London history walking tours that teach you about London’s fascinating past, and you don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate learning new facts about this ancient city.
Whether you’re looking for a haunted history tour or a political walking tour , London has many exciting options to choose from. You can read more on London and London travel tips .
The best way to discover a city is with a local guide, and each one of the best history tours in London allows you to do just that!
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Posted on Published: 23rd June 2023 - Last updated: 15th November 2023 Categories London Travel Tips
By: Author Julianna Barnaby
20+ Cool London Walking Tours to Help You Discover a Different Side of the City
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Looking to discover the best that London has to offer? These cool London walking tours delve below the city’s surface to offer a different perspective.
London is vast and sprawling – to the point that it can sometimes feel unknowable.
Sure, you can see all the city’s biggest landmarks in a couple of days, but what if you want to get beyond that?
There’s no better way to discover London than hearing the stories surrounding the places within it – but where do you start?
Walking tours are a great way to get to know any city and London is no exception.
Even though it’s safe to say we know the capital pretty well , we love taking walking tours to help us discover new parts of the city, or look at the places we’ve passed a thousand times with new eyes.
From Harry Potter to the Beatles or even discovering the role different locations have played in historical events – a London walking tour is a great way to immerse yourself in the cool, curious and sometimes peculiar world of the British capital.
The Best London Walking Tours
Harry potter walking tour of london .
Real talk: it’s pretty much impossible to visit London and not get swept up in Harry Potter mania .
Whether you were the kind of kid who stayed up all night to finish the latest book before your friends, or you’re more of a casual HP fan, this tour will surely bring a smile to your dial.
After all, it’s no average Harry Potter walking tour. Sure, you could just spot a few sights as you stroll the city – but why do that when you can go totally Potter-mad?
Discover filming locations, secret spots that inspired JK Rowling and even find out what house the sorting hat puts you in. All while discovering the main highlights of London town.
Whether you’re 5 or 85, this organised walk in London is great fun.
Pick up your wand and explore the world of Harry Potter with this magical tour
Or take our very own self-guided Harry Potter walking tour…
Jack the Ripper Walking Tour of London
So, cute ol’ Paddington Bear and the quirky London phone boxes are good at all, but you know you want to find out all about the city’s dark side.
It doesn’t get much darker than the infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper, who stalked London’s streets during Victorian times.
It’s one of the world’s most famous and intriguing unsolved crimes, and this London history walk will give you a closer look.
Not only will you take in some of the grim Ripper-related sights, but the use of a small projector recreates the scenery as it was back in Victorian times.
Learn more about the grisly and gruesome tales from the East End on this Jack the Ripper tour.
Sherlock Holmes London Walking Tour
Do you love mysteries? Do you love putting your deduction skills to the test? Or, do you just really love Benedict Cumberbatch in a deerstalker?
Whichever it is, this Sherlock Holmes tour may be perfect for you. It’s a two-hour stroll around London, checking out everything related to the city’s favourite detective.
Check out scenes referenced in the novels by Conan Doyle. Then, spot some filming locations for the recent BBC show and movie remake.
This is a great way to discover plenty of Sherlock-related sights, as well as some of London’s top landmarks.
Sleuth your way around these Holmes-related sights on the Sherlock Holmes walking tour
CityDays’ Interactive Mystery Tours of London
Sometimes what we need when we’ve got a bunch of great options to choose from is a little more choice. If following in the footsteps of Harry Potter, or learning the ins and outs of just one subject doesn’t interest you, check out CityDays’ London Walking Tours.
They’ve got heaps of choices so that you can tailor your walk to exactly what you want to do. Don’t want to walk too far? They’ve got an option for that. Feel like exploring a certain part of London? They can help with that too.
All the coordinates will be sent straight to your phone and you’re free to go at your own pace, exploring the best of London’s pubs, cafes and sites as you walk.
Book a CityDays London Walking Tour Here
Learn more about the grisly and gruesome tales from the East End on this Jack the Ripper tour
Half Day London Food Tour
Take it from us – the food in our city is seriously exceptional. Wandering around is akin to taking a gastronomic journey.
The problem with this journey is that it’s easy to take wrong turns with so much choice on offer. It’s always a disappointment to waste a precious meal on a sub-par London eatery.
Avoid that predicament by taking this fabulous three-hour tour around the London Bridge area.
You’ll get the chance to stop at Borough Market before heading over to a local pub, where meats, cheese, and beer are on the menu. Round off the tour with a selection of British desserts.
It’s a great introduction to London’s food scene. Plus, if you need any more recommendations then your guide will be happy to help.
Eat and drink your way around London on this half day food tour
City of London Walking Tour
A city within a city, The City of London is the historical centre of London and is home to some of the city’s most important landmarks. Dating all the way back to Roman times, The City has been built layer by layer by the inhabitants of the past few millennia.
Where better to learn about the history of London than the Square Mile?
Learn about the stories of the Black Plague and the Great Fire of London as you wend your way between the area’s small lanes and alleys.
Learn about London past and present on this City of London walking tour
London’s Historic Pubs Walking Tour
Now, we all know London has great attractions like Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge.
But you know what we think are London’s most iconic attractions? The pubs. From gloomy old boozers to flower-laden community living rooms, we just can’t get enough of them.
One of the (only) problems with London pubs is that the city just has so many of them, it’s hard to know where to start.
Well, a great starting point is this tour. It will take you to several historic pubs over two hours, and introduce you to the fascinating stories behind them. A great way to spend an afternoon, if you ask me.
B ook a place on the historic pub walking tour
Hidden London Walking Tour
One thing we love about London is that hidden between the mega-famous attractions is a plethora of unknown gems.
Unfortunately, many visitors to London never get to see them as they just don’t know where to look.
That’s why we love this London history tour that focuses on the city’s hidden gems.
Pop down little laneways, spy hidden courtyards and hear about the history behind some of London’s lesser-known attractions.
You’ll cover several hundred years of history during this tour, and hear plenty of weird and wonderful tales. So pop on those walking boots and get going.
Discover the hidden side of London on this walking tour.
London Night Photography Walk
London is an awfully photogenic city. It seems around every corner there are views waiting to be snapped and hung on your wall – or proudly posted to Instagram.
To help you get some ah-may-zing photos of the capital, we highly recommend joining a photography walk like this one.
They’ll help you master your camera (whether it’s a trusty point-and-shoot, DSLR or even an iPhone) and get some great photos.
It’ll help you unleash your creativity so you can get some unique takes on some of the world’s most iconic locations. All in all, we reckon it’s one of the best walking tours in London.
Explore London on a photography walk of the city
London Ghost Walk
Do you love all things spooky? Do you wait anxiously for Halloween to roll around every year ? Are you constantly on the lookout for things that go bump in the night?
If so then you’ve simply got to book yourself onto a London Ghost Walk.
Head out in pursuit of the paranormal with a group of other ghostbusters. Along the way, you’ll find out about some of London’s creepiest and spookiest sites.
Sites include a forgotten plague pit, and Old Hallows Church – home to a spooky apparition.
Yeah, it’s probably best to leave the little ones at home for this one.
Get spooked on this London Ghost Walk
London’s Dark Side Walking Tour
After you’ve seen the famous highlights (or before, we won’t judge), you might be itching to find out more about a different side of London.
Away from the royal pomp and pageantry or the glitz and glamour of Kensington, London has a serious dark side.
We’re talking murders, executions and taxidermy – yup, all that good stuff.
If you’re strong of stomach with even a hint of morbid curiosity, then I highly recommend heading out on this London guided walk.
Discover London’s gory history on this dark side walking tour.
Roman London Walking Tour
When you think of the Romans, chances are you probably don’t think of London. However, trust us – the Romans were in London in a big way.
Yep, long before Parliament and the Palace were in charge, the Romans founded the city of Londinium. As you might have guessed from the name, it grew to be the city we love today.
While many of the Roman’s buildings have been lost, a surprising amount are still there – if you know where to look.
Luckily, to help you with that there’s this great tour. You’ll be an expert in Roman history in no time.
Explore Roman London on this walking tour
Exploring London’s Haunted Pubs
Just in case London’s pubs needed any more character, there are plenty of stories of hauntings and other spooky sightings.
Yep, let’s be honest – “pub ghost” is almost as important for a good drinking haunt as a loveable “pub dog”.
This tour will help you discover several of London’s most haunted hangouts. You’ll also learn about the sordid and sombre tales that led to the spooky reputation.
Just be sure to hold onto your pint if anything suddenly goes bump in the night.
Drink your way around London’s haunted hangouts on this tour
Walking Tour of London’s Filming Locations
It’s not just us who thinks that London is a pretty awesome city. Plenty of directors have flocked to the capital to feature it in films and TV shows.
In fact, being a London local it’s hard to watch a movie without spotting some local landmarks in the background.
To find out more about London’s film appearances, you can join this fun two-hour tour. You’ll be able to spot a range of famous backdrops from films including Batman Begins, Night at the Museum, and Wonder Woman.
Get behind the scenes on this filming location walking tour
Discovering London’s Soho Walking Tour
There’s no arguing with the fact that Soho is one of London’s absolute coolest neighbourhoods.
But it’s not all about fabulous fashion and cocktails mixed to perfection. For decades, Soho has been the heart of London’s counterculture, youth protests and LGBTQ+ scene.
Yep, Soho is a neighbourhood with soul – one that is both brave, and seriously fabulous as well.
Discover it all on this walking tour. It will introduce you to the earliest history of Soho through to the present day, thrilling you with many great stories along the way.
Delve into Soho’s salacious history on this walking tour
A Naughty Side: Discovering Unsavoury London
When it comes to the many walking tours London boasts, they often seem a little bit tame.
Don’t believe all the pomp and properness of London’s galleries and museums. The scandals were a-plenty in historic London, and could be found all the way through to the top of the aristocracy.
Discover it all on this cheeky and eyebrow-raising stroll through London’s most notorious neighbourhood. No pearl-clutching allowed – we’re about to lift the lid on London’s naughty London.
Get naughty on this risque walk around London
London Sightseeing Walk
Being short on time is no excuse not to see all the highlights of the capital. This is especially so with this short, sharp and shiny tour that takes in an impressive 20 sights.
And a trip around the London Eye to boot.
In the company of a fantastic guide, you’ll be marched around London taking in all the big-ticket items.
Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, The Shard, the HMS Belfast and finally the London Eye… it’s all here in one well-organised package.
Explore London’s most striking landmarks on this tour
A Royal Palaces Tour
Enjoy a whistle-stop tour of three beautiful London Palaces, two royal parks, and finish off with High Tea on this brilliant London walking tour (well, technically there’s one black cab involved).
Kensington, Buckingham, and St James Palaces await you on this Royal guided walk. Enjoy sandwiches, tea, and scones in an exclusive Kensington Gardens location while you learn more about the Royal family’s history and, perhaps more importantly, why the British flippin’ love tea.
Explore London’s Palaces on this tour
London Cheese Tour
Are you a turophile? If, like us, you’re a little bit cheese-obsessed, why not take one of the best walking tours London has to offer.
With the help of a handy guide, you’ll be shown the best cheese spots in the capital. Rich stilton, classic British cheddar, and even an Italian “drunk cheese” pops up along the way.
The best part? This tour features samples galore – from the shop where Winston Churchill bought his cheese to the iconic Fortnum & Mason department store. You’ll also be able to test your dairy knowledge with a fun pop quiz on everything to do with cheese.
Say Cheese! On this foodie tour
Kensington Palace Gardens Tour with Royal High Tea
Fancy living the life of a royal? Well you can have a taste of just that for a few delightful hours on this tour of Kensington Palace Gardens.
The tour takes you for a stroll through the beautiful gardens, filling you in on the royal history that surrounds them. You’ll take in sites like the statue of Princess Dianna and then finish up with high tea at the Kensington Palace Pavilion.
There are options for sparkling wines in the pavilion if you really want to live it up. Why not treat yourself?
Live like a king on this Kensington Palace Gardens tour
British Museum Walking Tour
One of London’s great attractions is its museums and they don’t come much greater than the British Museum. It’s undoubtedly one of the most interesting spots for any history buff to take a look around.
The only issue is that there’s so much stuff. How can you take all that information in? Well having a tour guide explain it for you might help.
That’s how it works on this guided tour of the artefacts. It takes you through a one-and-a-half hour spin of the best of the Roman, Greek and Egyptian worlds dropping gems of knowledge as you go.
Discover the ancient world with this guided tour of the British Museum
The Beatles Walking Tour
The band needs no introduction – they’re only the greatest rock ‘n’ rollers of all time. They also happened to spend a lot of time in our nation’s fair capital.
With this tour you’ll be able to hit all the major sites. You’ll be in good hands too. It’s led by Richard Porter, author of Guide to the Beatles London.
He’ll take you to Abbey Road where you can snap a pick on the crossing, round the houses of Ringo and Lennon, and help you recreate the opening scenes of A Hard Day’s Night.
Beat the Beatle mania on this London tour
Go Behind the Scenes at Wembley Stadium
Any football fans among you? If so they’re sure to love a look at Wembley Stadium’s inner workings.
This guided, behind-the-scenes tour will take you through the locations that so many of football’s great players have been. You’ll walk the player’s tunnel, check out the press rooms and the trophy winner’s podiums.
You can even have a nosey around the Royal Box.
Take an access-all-areas tour of Wembley Stadium
Practical Tips for Booking a London Walking Tour
Free london walking tour vs paid tour .
Another option that you might have seen is the so-called free walking tours of London. If you’ve travelled around much of Europe, then chances are you’re familiar with how these work – you turn up, go on a tour, and tip what you think is fair at the end.
These can be great fun if you’re on a budget, however, there are a few downsides: namely that they tend to be really crowded, and often they give a more light-hearted overview.
We recommend choosing a guided tour as they are still affordable, but the group sizes are smaller and there are so many fun types to choose from.
Booking a London Walking Tour
You might be wondering where the best place to book London walking tours is. While it is possible to book some tours directly with smaller providers, we recommend going through a respected site like Viator , Virgin Experiences or Get Your Guide .
This way, you can compare lots of reviews, and also there is an independent customer service team to help you in the unlikely event that something goes wrong.
Looking to Tour More of London?
- Want to Visit the Houses of Parliament on a Tour? Here’s How…
- The Best London Gin Distilleries for Tastings, Tours and Experiences
- The Ultimate Self-Guided Literary Walking Tour of London
- Eating Around the World in London: Your World Tour of London’s Restaurants
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Ready to book the best London history tours?
You’ve come to the right place because I’m covering the top London history Tours here.
How do I know?
I’ve lived in England since 2012 and have explored far and wide, so I know that one of the best things to do in London for history buffs is book a tour and explore.
Only quality tours are included in this list so you know that every tour you book is worth your money and time.
Don’t want to read to the end of the article?
The best tour of London History is: Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of London’s Fiery History.
It has 5 out of 5 stars with over 100 reviews, so you can’t go wrong!
⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?
The best London history tour is the Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings tour .
Click here to check prices and availability.
There are plenty of other London history tours to choose from, so let’s get right down to it.
In this list, you’ll find 15 of the top-rated London history tours so you know you’re making the right choice.
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!
Easy Guide: Best London History Tours
1. roman ruins to blitz bombings: a walking tour of london’s fiery history : history tours in london.
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 110+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Walking tour
- Small group tour
- Learn obscure trivia
History buffs might think they already know everything about London’s history.
This tour will dive even deeper than you ever have!
Even the most learned historians will learn something new on this tour.
Learn about more than 2,000 years’ worth of history.
This well-rounded tour will teach you about the Roman ruins, the Blitz bombings, Charles Dickens, and Anne Boleyn.
Because it’s a walking tour, you’ll get to see the attractions up close. This is so much better than hoping to get a window seat on a tour bus!
At each of the 9 stops, you’ll be able to snap a picture and learn something interesting.
2. Natural History Museum London – Private Guided Museum Tour : history walking tours in London
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 79+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Guided Museum Tour
- Tour Guide Exclusively For You
- Duration 2 hours
- Wheelchair Friendly
If you’re traveling with kids, consider booking this tour . They will have so much fun learning about history and you’ll also learn a lot!
While you can explore the museum on your own, there are benefits to hiring a guide.
They’ll tell you the highlights of each exhibit so you don’t have to read everything. This is especially great if you have kids running around.
He’ll also help you get through the museum efficiently.
Otherwise, you might spend all day there and glean the same amount of information.
3. The Authentic British Food and History Tour (Try many British Foods) : London history walks
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 24+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Coffee or Tea
Calling all foodies! If you want to taste the best of Britain while learning about its history, book this tour now .
This small group tour will bring you to the best versions of classic British grub.
While you’re trying the iconic food, you’ll also learn the history of Britain and its food.
You won’t have enough time to eat at all the good restaurants in the area.
Fortunately, the tour guide will give you plenty of recommendations for the rest of your trip!
You’ll walk by many historic landmarks but will spend most of your time at the Borough Market.
This is where you will find the best food in the city.
4. London Witches and History Walking Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 23+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 75 minutes | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Costumed ‘in-character’ guide
- Harry Potter trivia
On this walking tour , you’ll learn about the witchy history of London.
Your knowledgeable guide will also be dressed in costume.
This is a good sign that they know how to have fun and will make sure everybody in the tour group is having a blast!
The guide will teach you a lot about history and magic.
You’ll especially learn about the witch trials and hauntings of London’s past. Which iconic landmarks have a spooky history?
And Harry Potter fans will be excited to catch a glimpse of some filming sites.
5. Kid-Friendly Natural History Museum & Dinosaurs Private Guided Tour in London : historic London walks
⭐️ RATING: 2.5 out of 5 Stars, 8+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 50 minutes | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Blue Badge guide
- Professional art historian guide
- Professional Kid-Friendly Guide
- Private tour
If you love history and have young kids, this is a good tour for you. The kids will have a blast and learn so much!
They won’t complain about being bored a single time.
But just because it’s for kids doesn’t mean you won’t learn anything.
Even history buffs will learn something new on this tour!
The guide knows the best parts of the museum.
This means that you won’t miss anything important. He’ll also be able to summarize all the important information so you don’t have to read every word on every sign.
6. History of London Photography Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 8+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Led by a professional photographer
- Amazing photo opportunities
- Professional photography advice
- Fascinating historical facts
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves to take gorgeous photos wherever you go, then you’ll love this tour .
Not only will you have plenty of photo ops, you’ll learn the best tips for capturing those pictures.
With 10 stops, you’ll see the quintessential corners of London.
You’ll learn some interesting tidbits about the area’s history.
And you’ll take astonishing photos that will look like they belong on a magazine cover!
Whether you love looking at photographs of the city or would rather be behind the lens, you’ll enjoy this tour.
And you’ll really love showing off the pictures to your friends when you get home!
7. The Beatles Magical History Black Taxi Tour London
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 29+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-5 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Private Transportation in a Licensed London Black Taxi
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled water
- Parking Fees
Beatles fans will love this tour !
Music lovers in general will be able to enjoy learning the history revolving around this iconic band.
You’ll follow in the footsteps of these legendary musicians and learn about their history.
Spend some time at Abbey Road Studios and immerse yourself in music history.
You’ll even have a chance to get your picture taken while walking across the street!
Relive the ‘60s at Carnaby Street. See where Beatlemania was born at the London Palladium.
And visit 3 Savile Row where you can discover so much Beatles memorabilia at the place where they held their last live show.
8. Pub Tour London (Drinking History)
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1-2 hours| ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Alcoholic beverages
- Small group
- London history
This tour is limited to 6 people so you’ll be able to bond with the others as you drink your way through London!
You’ll explore London and even see a lot of parts that you might have missed. You’ll also learn a little bit about the history everywhere you go!
The highlight of this tour is Fleet Street.
Home to several historic pubs, you’ll learn about their history and their brews.
Be sure to enjoy a drink in the same places as Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and Samuel Johnson.
9. The Natural History Museum of London: Private Half-Day Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Professional guide
- Reserved entrance time
- Personalized experience
The Natural History Museum in London is a must-see attraction!
It’s often considered the most important center for the research of natural history and sciences.
This museum is huge and can be hard to get through.
That’s why you should hire a guide to make sure you see all the important parts!
They can also summarize the information so that you can get the highlights without reading every single sign.
Since it’s a private tour, it can be personalized to your preferences.
Spend more time on your favorite exhibits and less time on those that you don’t find interesting.
10. London’s Hidden Gems and Secret History Private Guided Tour
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3-4 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
If you want to see parts of London that only the locals know about, go on this tour .
You’ll see landmarks that you’ve probably never even heard about before.
But by the end of the tour, you’ll know the interesting history behind each of these stops!
The local guide will help you have an enjoyable tour and give you tips for the rest of your trip.
He’ll bring you on a route that you probably never would’ve found on your own.
He’ll also share all the inside information that even a lot of locals don’t know!
11. Brixton History and Culture Private Walking Tour : historical tours in London
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 – 2 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Local guide
- Cultural history
- Quintessential locations
If you love exploring the cultural scene, you’ll love Brixton.
This is the most diverse area of London.
Brixton is home to several types of international cuisine.
This neighborhood has a rich history of immigrants settling in.
You’ll also find a variety of art!
With 5 main stops, this tour will cover the main attractions of Brixton.
You’ll have a deeper appreciation for many of the cultures in this world.
You’ll also see the results of what happens when people come from all over the world to live in the same area.
12. World War II History in London Private Guided Tour : history tours London
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2-7 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Private Walking Tour of London WWII Sights
- 5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language
- Skip-the-line tickets to the Churchill War Rooms (only in 4 and 7-hour options)
- Free admission to the Imperial War Museum (only in 7-hour option)
World War II buffs will enjoy this tour . Explore the main WW2 sites of London on this tour.
You can choose a 2-hour, 4-hour, or 7-hour option depending on how much you want to see!
The tour begins at Waterloo Place and includes a visit to Royal Naval Division War Memorial and the Palace of Westminster.
If you choose a longer tour, you will get to visit the Churchill War Rooms.
On the longest tour, you’ll also have admission to the Imperial War Museum.
If you have all day, this is the best way to learn about the Second World War! If you only have a few hours, you’ll still be able to learn a lot!
13. London History Taxi Tours
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 21+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Private transportation
- London History tour
- Several photo ops
Your knowledgeable tour guide will know his way around the city and be able to get you everywhere safely and efficiently.
He’ll pass by the most iconic London landmarks so you’ll have a chance to see everything on your bucket list!
This private tour is personalizable and flexible.
You’ll be able to adjust the itinerary to spend more or less time at different locations since there won’t be a ton of other tourists!
You’ll stop at 6 places, including Mayfair, Southwark, and the Financial Centre of London and the UK.
14. Unique Mayfair Lifestyle and History Walk – Private Custom Tour
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Private, personalized itinerary
- Expert Local Guide
- Additional suggestions for the rest of your stay
Mayfair is a quite trendy part of London. Experience the architecture. Enjoy the fashion scene. Explore hidden passages.
Not only will you visit art galleries and designer stores.
You’ll also learn about their history on this tour .
Visit Mayfair, Savile Row, and Bond Street.
Learn what makes them so iconic in the London art scene!
Stop by St. James’ Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and Fortnum & Mason. See how they are still influencing modern-day art.
You’ll have a chance to do some shopping and taste some tea.
You’ll also get to bond with other tourists who have similar mindsets as you.
15. 2-Hour Private LGBTQ+ History Tour of London with a Licensed Guide
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
- Private Tour
- Professional qualified guide
- Tour of Bloomsbury
- London’s LGBTQ history and culture
This private tour accommodates up to 15 people who are excited to learn about LGBTQ history in London.
Explore the Bloomsbury district as you learn about the artists, writers, and philosophers who played a big role in shaping London’s LGBTQ community.
Your guide will share a wealth of information, including over 300 years’ worth of LGBTQ history.
Instead of the history lessons you’ve learned before, you’ll learn about history from a minority’s perspective.
This will help to shape your ideas about everything you know!
You’ll even learn some Polari, a secret gay language in London.
Want more London tours? Check these out!
- 13 Best London Tours with Afternoon Tea
- 5 Best London Speedboat Tours
- 5 Best Tower of London Tours
- 5 Best Westminster Tours in London
- 5 Best Winston Churchill Tours in London
- 7 Best Borough Market Tours
- 7 Best James Bond Tours
- 7 Best Black Cab Tours of London
- 11 Best Royal Tours in London for Visitors
- 11 Best London Art Tours
- 5 Best Graffiti Tours in London
- 11 Best Full Day London Tours
- 9 Best Tours of London’s East End
- 11 Best Private Tours in London
- 17 Best London Food Tours
- 17 Best London Harry Potter Tours
- 11 Best London Bus Tours
- 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
- 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
- 9 Best London Literary Tours for Bookworms
- 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
- 11 Best London Bike Tours
- 11 Best Beatles Tours in London
- 11 Best London Museum Tours
- 21 Best London Walking Tours
- 11 Best London Rock N Roll Tours
- 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
- 19 Unique London Tours
- 5 Best Open Top Bus Tours in London
- 7 Best London Helicopter Tours
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Living London History is all about the history hiding in plain sight.
Here you will find hidden gems and lots of suggested self-guided historical walks to help you discover London’s living history.
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Hi everyone, I’m Jack: a lover of all things London, history and walking!
My mission is to uncover the history of London that you can get out to see, do and experience. In doing so, hopefully I can help Londoners see their home in a different light, as well as helping visitors to get under the skin of this incredible city.
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The Best London Walking Tours, 11 Incredible Routes
Interactive walking tours of london, bring the city to life..
- CityDays brings an immersive new way to have a walking tour in London
- Discover London's historic landmarks, secret sights & hidden gems
- Solve fun challenges & puzzling clues to unlock your way
- Optional breaks at top-rated pubs, bars and cafes
- Interactive private tour, you and your team, at your own pace
- Full money back guarantee. We know you'll love it
What to expect on a CityDays Walking Tour
Don't have a great time? Simply let us know why and we'll refund you in full.
Find Your Perfect Walking Tour
Each walking tour explores a different area of London, find the route that suits you best or work your way through! All bookings are fully flexible, alter your booking freely.
Mysterious Mews
Twist through Kensington's hidden gardens and cobbled backstreets… more
Humanity's Last
How far are you willing to go to survive… more
Search For Shoreditch
Puzzling towards painted streets… more
Return of Jack the Ripper
A body has been found in Whitechapel. Has he returned… more
- New release
- Food Included
Central London Food Hunt
An indulgent central London trail, solve clues and unlock your treats… more
Greenwich Guile
Glorious gardens, fantastic cityscapes and the origins of time itself… more
Secrets of the Squares
Drink with Dickens then journey to the heart of Soho… more
All Gone South
The underbelly of medieval London… more
From London to Londinium, back to where it all began… more
A Rift In Time
A ghost of Victorian London, will they be saved or scorned, you decide!… more
A Forbidden Fayre
Mayfair, more than a Monopoly square… more
Clues don't require any prior knowledge and are made up of two parts:
1) Obscured directions that make reference to the city around you. Unravel their meaning and be guided by your surroundings.
2) A puzzle to be solved once you've followed the directions, search nearby to find your answers.
CityDays aim for an enjoyable, just-the-right-amount, level of difficulty that is inclusive for all! Help messages are available should you need a bit of support.
Guided by clues sent to your phone
- Receive snippets of history, quirky facts and intriguing stories about the areas you visit.
- Pub/cafe breaks along your hunt, all totally optional and some with discounts on food & drinks.
- Make memories at locations along the way, get inspiration from previous teams and share a clever snap!
- Go at your own speed, or go for top spot on the game leaderboard.
London Walking Tour Reviews
The great things our customers have to say about CityDays Walking Tours
The Ginger & the Gay
David and I had the BEST day exploring York, solving the clues, and had such a wonderful time over the whole day. What…
Had a great day out in London doing the outdoor escape room, I have been round London hundreds of times but found areas…
Shell and Phil
Brilliant clues and a great way to see the city. We will be looking to see which other cities we can do this in!
The Gunners
We had a great few hours following the clues and exploring a part of London. Definitely tested the brain cells! Loved i…
Brains and Whiston
Was a intresting and fun filled day 😁. FromBrains & whiston
Special six
A fantastic day out finding new places and spotting things you would normally just walk by! Highly recommend this activ…
Great for getting out and seeing parts of the city you wouldn't other wise see. Plenty of places for food and drink on …
Wiggins and Simpsons
Such a great time. We had an amazing afternoon, and enjoyed all the stops along the way!!
Great way to explore London. Even if you live here you will discover hidden gems and lots of fun facts
Rescue Aid Society
Fantastic day out! Wet and windy, but helped us see a city we are familiar with in a whole different light! Great fun!
Kanye Quest
Very fun to see some areas where we've never been! Good riddles, not too hard but not too easy.
It was fantastic! Really interesting clues and made me see my home town in a new way - looking for our next one!
It was really excellent experience. We saw lots of places we had never seen and enjoyed the challenge of the clues. We …
We loved the tour! Made us think, tired us out and was great fun! Thank you
What an excellent way to explore Bath. We had great fun following the clues and finding all about the city. Brilliant w…
Was a fantastic day out! Cannot fault it. Got us thinking, was the right level of challenge, and took us to some beauti…
It was fantastic. Absolutely loved it!! Hard enough but not too hard. We walked so much. Saw streets we have never seen…
Great wee day out. Took us around parts of Edinburgh we had never seen. Can't wait to do another.
Absolutely brilliant, we did it as a couple and stopped at pubs along the way which we wouldn’t have come across!! Bril…
Breadcrumbs
Excellent fun. Very well organised treasure hunt. Thoroughly recommend.
Ready to see lots of smiling faces? Read all our customer reviews →
Ready? Book your Walking Tour today
The best self-guided walking tours in london.
As all explorers know, the best self-guided walking tours in London (or anywhere else in the world!) show you all the famous sites as well as some of the lesser-known landmarks that often go unnoticed, otherwise known as hidden gems .
The good news is that London is absolutely full of them. They could be historical pubs, building quirks, lampposts, statues or even anomalies in the pavement. We’re not picky about the form our secrets come in: but we are very fussy about choosing the best hidden gems in London to show you.
Our self-guided London walking tours deliver these fascinating secrets as well as leading you around London’s most famous boroughs. The only way to uncover them is by solving our puzzles and experiencing a trail for yourselves. Here’s more info about which trail might suit you best…
10 Top London Walking Tours
1. Central London Walking Tour - Secrets of the Squares
A blend of iconic landmarks and tucked away treasures, Secrets of the Squares is one of our most sought-after London walking tours. Navigate Central London’s most well-trodden streets while discovering its best-kept secrets.
Even if you think you’ve seen Piccadilly Circus, The Mall, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Soho and Chinatown before – prepare to be amazed at the many curiosities concealed within Central London.
Perfect for:
- First-time tourists in London
- Returning tourists who missed key sights
- Newly-arrived residents in Central London
- People looking for unique things to do in Central London
2. Mayfair Walking Tour - A Forbidden Fayre
Put your posh pants on and explore one of the world’s most expensive districts, Mayfair. A Forbidden Fayre is a London walking tour that takes you through the high-class haunts of Mayfair, packed with puzzles and tantalising tales about some of the district's biggest characters.
Add your footprints to the plush pavements that have graced no less than Hendrix and Handel, an American president and even a Victorian dandy who used to wash his boots with champagne. Mayfair - more than just a Monopoly square!
- First-time and returning tourists to London
- Trivia fanatics
- Exploring secret places in London
- Venturing through London’s ritziest neighbourhoods
3. Dickens Themed Walking Tour - A Rift in Time
One of the best secret London walks for armchair detectives and Victorian history enthusiasts, A Rift in Time is a London walking tour that allows you to experience time travel as well as a Dickensian adventure of your very own through Covent Garden .
Tiptoe through a narrative walking tour packed with puzzles and clues, all the while pursuing a mysterious stranger. Who is he – a victim or a villain? You decide, all the while soaking up enigmatic passages, historic arcades and, of course, plenty of charming pubs along the way.
- Fans of Dickens and Victorian London
- Team-building activities
- Amateur sleuths who love a gripping storyline
- Families and friends looking for unique things to do in London
4. City of London Walking Tour - The City
Ah, Londinium! This City of London Walking Tour absorbs 2000 years’ worth of London history into just a few hours (2.5 - 3.5 hrs). The City of London is the original core of the UK’s capital and received its nickname, The Square Mile, from the Romans.
Fun fact : The Roman word for “mile” derives from “ mille passus ” or “one thousand paces”.
One of the best outdoor activities in London, this interactive walking tour takes you on a puzzle-filled adventure from St. Paul’s Cathedral to the Tower of London, past historic inns and even includes an Ancient Roman amphitheatre.
- First-time and returning tourists
- Family and friend group activities in London
- Exploring historic sites in a novel way
- Seeing Central London’s major and hidden sites
5. Southwark Walking Tour - All Gone South
For those looking to uncover London’s secrets south of the Thames, All Gone South is a walking tour that takes you through London’s Most Historic Borough (it was founded in 880 by the Anglo-Saxon King Alfred). Discover South London hidden gems tucked beside iconic landmarks such as the Tate Modern art gallery as you decipher clues to take you around Medieval London’s hedonist haven.
All Gone South is a great way to experience alternative London attractions, taking in historical and arty points of interest. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, especially foodies who will appreciate the many eateries, food vendors and pubs dotted along the way.
- Getting to know South London’s hidden gems
- People interested in Medieval history
- Modern Art enthusiasts
- Culinary connoisseurs
6. Greenwich Walking Tour - Greenwich Guile
Although it’s tucked away in south-east London, Greenwich should be at the top of your London walking tours list. Not only does it have Royal connections (both Henry VIII and his daughter Elizabeth I were born at Greenwich Palace, now the Old Royal Naval College), but it’s also home to time itself!
Greenwich Guile is one of the best secret London walks for exploring an alternative area of London. It allows you to take a wander through London’s lesser-known attractions, picking up tidbits of maritime, Victorian and local history as you decipher cryptic clues in one of the capital’s greenest areas. There’s art, architecture and, of course, a visit to an excellent Victorian pub along the way.
- Tourists who want to expand their knowledge of London
- Family and friend groups who love the outdoors
- People who thrive in green spaces
- Maritime history lovers
- Getting acquainted with royal history
7. Kensington Walking Tour - Mysterious Mews
Popular with the rich and famous, Kensington is a ritzy suburb full of quirks and curios. Despite its fame for being home to some of London’s most iconic museums including the V&A, Sambourne House and the Natural History Museum, Kensington is crammed with hidden gardens, remarkable oddities like headless lampposts and stories of Cold War espionage.
Mysterious Mews is a must for anyone who enjoys going beyond the obvious and delving deeper into local intrigues while never being too far from London’s notorious hotspots. Ideal for small or large groups, this London walking tour will test your ability to crack puzzles and pay attention to the finer details of Kensington.
- Small or large groups
- Tourists looking to expand their knowledge of London
- Families (there are lots of great museums and child-friendly eateries along the trail)
- Pub-lovers
- Residents of London
- Celebrity spotters (Who knows who you’ll spot along the way!)
8. Shoreditch Walking Tour - Shoreditch Shuffle
If your heart beats for art, there’s no better London walking tour than the Shoreditch Shuffle .
Formerly known as one of London’s most debauched neighbourhoods, Shoreditch has undergone an incredible transformation. It’s hard to believe that just a hundred years ago, Shoreditch was one of the poorest neighbourhoods in London where many were living without basic amenities.
This trail is an excellent balance of high and low brow: you’ll see incredible pieces of modern art, colourful murals and walk through the burial grounds of resting literary giants, as well as the chance to dip your toes into Shoreditch’s wartime secrets and experience some of the best eateries in London’s East end.
- Art lovers
- Fans of modern history
- Sampling independently run pubs, cafés and street food
9. Jack The Ripper London Walking Tour: Return of The Ripper
Good enough to make it onto our list of top Murder Mystery London Experiences , Return Of The Ripper is a London walking tour for crime fans and amateur sleuths alike.
This self-guided Jack The Ripper Tour takes you around the Ripper’s former haunts in Whitechapel, but unlike other similar tours - you play detective at the same time!
Faced with a series of bizarre clues, a (real!) historical murder and plenty of puzzling facts, it’s your job to work out whether this ‘new’ body is the work of the Ripper or another perpetrator.
- Amateur detectives and history fanatics
- True crime podcast lovers
- Residents and tourists interested in Jack The Ripper
- Exploring Whitechapel’s murky history
10. Westminster to Waterloo London Walking Tour: Humanity’s Last
Ever wondered how you’d react at the news of a zombie apocalypse? This is your chance to find out!
One of the best London walking tours for getting your mind and heart racing, Humanity’s Last takes you on a whirlwind journey through West and Central London while “avoiding the spread” of a mysterious illness.
On this self-guided London walking tour, you and your teammates become the main characters in an interactive city game. Battle your way from Westminster to Waterloo where you can solve riddles, discern clues and make impactful decisions…
- London residents looking to explore the city through a fun game
- Tourists who have already seen London’s major landmarks
- Video game lovers
- Big and small groups looking for an activity
Find Hidden Gems in London
If you’re on the hunt for the best hidden gems in London, you’ve come to the right place. Our walking tours of London divulge some of the best-kept secrets and hidden nooks in the city - even ones that are hiding in plain sight.
Don’t believe us? Here are just three hidden gems in London that we’re willing to share…
Paternoster Square
“That’s not a secret, I walk past it every single day!” we hear you say.
Hold your horses - you might have seen this particular London hidden gem many a time but did you know, for instance, that the first English novel (Robinson Crusoe) was published right here in Paternoster Square? It was first published in April 1719 by The Ship and Black Swan, one of the most famous publishing houses of the 18th century.
Pelican Stairs
If you haven’t heard of this place before, it’s probably because you’re not a true crime fan. But here’s why it should be on your radar. Pelican Stairs is a hidden alleyway in East London that extends to an obscured London “beach” with a gruesome history - making this trip one of the spookiest London walks you can do in the city.
And not just any “beach” either. Once upon a time, over a hundred corpses washed up on the Thames shoreline right here - their identities and cause of deaths mostly unknown…
Leadenhall Market
Leadenhall Market is as almost as old as London itself - established in the 14th century, people have been buying wares on this very spot the same length of time as the Tower of London has dominated the capital’s skyline.
Obviously, it’s been revamped a fair few times since its inception but over its long life, Leadenhall Market has collected quite a few historic London moments: to name a few, it was once home to a drunken goose called Tom, the first Harry Potter film was shot there and, last but not least, the historic market even featured as a circuit in Mario Kart 8.
The Best Historical London Walks
Exploring London history is a bit like trying to eat a buffet all on your own: there’s no way you’ll make it around the whole table without feeling defeated.
That’s why we break down our trails into suburbs and attach themes to some of our routes. We find it’s the best way to curate historical London walks that teach you snippets of history - spanning from the Roman era to yesterday.
Don’t just take our word for it, though. Here are some of our weirdest facts about London to give you a taste of the sort of thing to expect from us!
Historical Facts About London: (1) A Situation in The Streets
In 1908, there were 24, 906 cars and 9, 782 motorcycles registered in London. Transport for London (TfL) estimates there are 2.8 million cars registered in London today, and 54% of households in the capital have at least one car.
Historical Facts About London: (2) Who’s Counting?
According to one newspaper published in 1885, London in 1884 had 101 hospitals and 407 newspapers.
It seems the newly-formed Metropolitan Police had a job on their hands keeping the population’s blood alcohol content under control, too: that same year, 1884, 15,519 men and 9,618 women were arrested for drunkenness.
Historical Facts About London: (3) Trams, Trains and Repair Costs
Although there’s barely a trace left of them today, Londoners were once great tram users.
In 1907, London had 2, 151 miles of laid out streets to explore. Around 127 miles of them were covered by tramways, and an estimated 372,515, 754 users.
Summary: The Best Way to Join the Top Secret London walks
There you have it - 8 Top London walking tours to suit everyone. Whichever route you end up taking, you can be sure that you’ll be experiencing some of the best outdoor activities in London. Whether it’s a London history tour you’re after or you’re on a mission to discover secret places in London, you’re guaranteed to have a great time.
It takes less than two minutes to book your walking tour with us. Simply click the book tickets button at the top of our page, or any of the links in the article above. And don’t forget, you’re in charge! You pick the day, time, who you play with and how you receive your messages. If you get stuck, you can always ask for a handy hint.
Answers to any questions you have can be found on our FAQ page or contact us to talk about a walking tour for corporate team building in London.
Finally, don’t forget you’ll find us in cities all over the world . Wherever you are, we’ve got places to take you.
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Self-Guided Walking Tour London
This post is a compilation of self-guided tours of London, including self-guided food and theme tours, such as Harry Potter film locations.
We've broken up these tours into a few categories.
- Neighbourhood
- Themed Tours
- GPS-Guided Audio Tours
- Other Free Things to Do in London
And if you are considering a London hop-on-hop-off bus tour, then these self-guided tours will come in handy when you are off the bus. Read our reviews of the best London bus tours .
For more ways to save money, check out our London on a Budget Guide .
Self-Guided Neighbourhood Walking Tours
Though we love showing guests around London, we realize that not everyone has the time to take a guided walking tour.
If our tour schedule doesn't work for you, or if you would rather explore on your own, then take advantage of our totally free self-guided tours!
Self-Guided City of London Tour
This tour takes you through Old London. Classic sites include St Paul's Cathedral, London Bridge, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge.
You can even watch a condensed virtual version of this tour right now.
Click on the map to enlarge it or download it to a smartphone
We also have a GPS-enabled audio tour version (sample below) and a pay-what-you-wish live guided tour option .
Royal London Self-Guided Walking Tour
You can't leave London without seeing many of the sites included in this list.
Some of our favorites are Buckingham Palace, St. James' Palace, Big Ben, Parliament, and Trafalgar Square.
Click on the map to enlarge it or download it to a smartphone .
We also offer a pay-what-you-like live-guided Royal London Tour option as well as a GPS-enabled audio tour version .
Camden Town
Once known as the Rock n' Roll capital of the world, Camden Town is now a popular tourist destination offering many great things to do.
This is a self-guided tour to show the visitor some of the many interesting things to see in Camden Town London.
Piccadilly and St. James Walking Tour
One of the most popular touristic areas located in London's West End, this self-guided tour will cover places like Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus.
We also offer two guided walks that correspond to this self-guided tour, our guided tour of Soho and our Rock N Roll London Tour .
River Thames Self-Guided Walking Tour
The best tour for photography enthusiasts!
This picturesque tour takes you along the River Thames to see sites such as the Millennium Bridge, London Eye, and Shakespeare Globe Theatre.
This tour is a great option for an evening walk. In fact, we offer this as a guided tour , usually from April through October.
And check out our audio tour version. Here's a sample.
Be sure to check out our guide to things to do at night in London for even more ideas for nighttime activities.
Self-Guided Royal Borough of Greenwich Walking Tour
Enjoy a leisurely walk through this posh neighborhood that will take you to sites like Greenwich Park, the Queen's House, and the Trafalgar.
A great way to get to Greenwich is by boat cruise .
Hyde Park and Kensington Walking Tour
This will take you through beautiful Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, past a posh royal palace and picturesque art galleries and museums.
SELF-GUIDED THEMED TOURS
In this section, we list several tours based on individuals, bands, movies, or ghosts.
Harry Potter Self-Guided Walking Tour
Dive into the magical world of Harry Potter!
This particular tour will focus on film sites in the northern part of London, such as Leadenhall, Australia House, Platform 9 3/4 as well as many other famous sights.
Click on the map to enlarge or download to a smartphone
We also offer a guided Harry Potter Tour as well as a GPS-enabled audio tour version .
Guide to Beatles in London
Although John, Paul, George, and Ringo hailed from Liverpool, there are plenty of London landmarks for Beatles-lovers to get their fix.
From recording studios to concert venues, shops to roof-top performances, London is filled with hot-spots for fans of the Fab Four.
There are many guided tours of Beatles sites with live tour guides and other fans. We offer a twice-weekly Rock N Roll London guided tour.
We also have a post on how to get to the Abbey Road Crosswalk .
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jack the Ripper Sites
Try your hand at solving one of the most famous unsolved murder cases in history.
Our Jack the Ripper tour guides you through the area of London where the felon committed his most notorious crimes.
We've even included a photo from that era to give you a sense of how the city looked.
We also offer a live-guided option for Jack the Ripper as well as a GPS-enabled audio tour version .
Downton Abbey London Sights
Downton Abbey exploded onto our screens in 2010 and people from all over the world watched the lives and exploits of the Crowley Family and all the characters surrounding them.
Although Downton Abbey has finished airing, it’s still as popular as ever.
For visitors who have traveled to the U.K. hoping to see some Downton Abbey locations and inspirations, here is our helpful guide to London’s Downton Abbey connections!
Roman London Walking Tour
Get a better sense of just how powerful the Roman Empire once was with this tour.
Sites include the Temple of Mithras and a piece of the Roman Wall, which dates back 2,000 years.
James Bond Tour
Use your feet and the London Underground to visit sights related to James Bond in London.
Literary Walking Tour - Hampstead Heath
Hampstead was the birthplace of big names in the literary industry.
Hampstead is considered one of the more beautiful London boroughs and it is full of places for true literature lovers to explore.
Jimi Hendrix Sights
London was an important city for this American rock legend. We offer a twice-weekly Rock N Roll London guided tour.
David Bowie Sights
Born in London, David Bowie left an indelible mark on this city. We offer a twice-weekly Rock N Roll London guided tour.
London Ghost Tour
Only for those bold enough to take a ghost tour on their own! Want some company? Join us for a guided ghost tour of London.
Wizards of London Game
This self-guided exploration game puts you in the shoes of a wizard to solve a mystery while discovering some of the most notable sites in the city.
Haunted London Game
Discover the more frightening side of London's history as you attempt to solve a mystery during this haunted self-guided exploration game.
Queen: The Quest Must Go On Game
Fans of the band Queen may want to consider taking part in this self-guided exploration game which will task them with solving a mystery based on their music.
Get a taste of London with our free self-guided food tour:
East London Food Tour
It is possible to eat from any of the world’s cuisines when you are in the East End of London, but here is a small DIY tour that will have you sampling some of the best the East End has to offer those with a hunger for delicious food.
Be sure to check out our pay-what-you-wish tour guide led version (watch video above).
Soho, Chinatown, and Piccadilly Food Tour
Explore culturally and culinarily diverse neighborhoods of Soho, Chinatown, and Piccadilly.
We've curated a list of the best restaurants in the area to give you a real taste of London!
Exmouth Market Food Tour
Venture out to Exmouth Market, the “real” London that's tucked just far enough away from other touristy parts with the best street food that London has to offer.
Covent Garden Food Tour
Try out the culinary delights in one of London's liveliest neighborhoods in the West End.
Borough Market
Discover the best eats you can find in Borough Market and get some ideas for what types of food you might want to get here.
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Walking tour of East Bloomsbury
01 March 2024, 1:00 pm–2:00 pm
We will wander the quiet back streets and green spaces of this fascinating district, looking out for notable trees, architectural gems, and some historic blue plaques. Meet Meet Ed Lyon and Simon Beesley at the entrance to Brunswick Square Gardens opposite the Brunswick Centre at 1pm. The walk will take approx. 50 - 60 mins.
This event is free.
Event Information
Availability.
We will wander the quiet back streets and green spaces of this fascinating district, looking out for notable trees, architectural gems, and some historic blue plaques. Meet Meet Ed Lyon and Simon Beesley at the entrance to Brunswick Square Gardens opposite the Brunswick Centre at 1pm (see map below), the walk will take approx. 50 - 60 mins.
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+44 (0) 7783 401 129 Historic London Tours Guided walking tours of London's fascinating history Click here to view our tours Five-star rated historic walking tours of London Welcome to Historic London Tours! About Historic London Tours Private London Walking Tours About Historic London Tours
The guided walking tour begins at 11:00 outside Embankment Station exit on the Victoria Embankment, ends near to Green Park Station, and will take around two hours. Total distance is about two and a half miles, and tickets cost £18 per person. Ticket sales will be limited to fifteen attendees, to ensure maximum enjoyment for everybody on the tour.
Walking tours of historic sites in London not only educate but also allow participants to immerse themselves in the ambience of bygone eras as they stroll through cobbled alleys, narrow streets, and hidden courtyards that encapsulate centuries-old stories waiting to be discovered.
Practical Information about the Historical Walking Tour of London Starts London's Roman Wall, Barbican Finishes Shakespeare's Globe, The Southbank Distance 8km or just under 5 miles. Time About two hours of walking, plus time for any of the attractions you want to see and maybe a break for lunch.
1½ - 2 hours View Tour Book Tickets Pubs and Pirates from St Paul's to Canary Wharf Sticking to the riverside path this walk runs from the familiar splendour of St Pauls to the less familiar waterfront at Wapping. Revisit the haunts of the press gangs, pirates and their pursuers.
A walk exploring his historic heart of London: the City, aka the 'Square Mile'. We will look at its fascinating past through the lens of its minutae: hidden gardens, narrow passageways and oft-overlooked little symbols. See all dates here. Fri 1st March 10.30am - Sold out Sun 3rd March 2.30pm - Sold out Sun 10th March 2.30pm - Sold out
Historical London Walking Tours Walking London Guided London Walking Tours We are a guided tour company offering historical walks in London. Join us as we explore one of the most fascinating cities in the world. London has something to offer for everyone; history, culture, the familiar, the hidden and the bizarre - the list goes on.
Ultimate London Sightseeing Walking Tour with 30+ sights 248 Reviews Badge of Excellence Greater London, United Kingdom Share See More See More 5 hours (approx.) Mobile ticket Offered in: English Explore our promoted experiences London, England Black Cab Tour of London - Premium Sightseeing Taxi Tour 7 from $1,031.27 Per group London, England
Walk London's self-guided walking tours pass the very best of London's world famous and historic attractions ensuring you make the most of your visit to London. Sightseeing Maps and Guides Each walk has a visitor attraction guide with an interactive map. For your enjoyment you will find a variety of refreshment and resting stops on all our walks.
1 / 6 Explore the original City of London on this historic London walking tour including Tower Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, Tower of London, Bank of England, Leadenhall Market & more! About this activity Free cancellation Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund Reserve now & pay later
Looking for the perfect Christmas or birthday present? Give an Historic London Tours gift voucher! More Info Guided walking tours of London's fascinating history, led by an accredited tour guide. Five-star rated on both Google and TripAdvisor.
12. Jack the Ripper tour with fish and chips. No name gets shivers running down the spine quite like Jack the Ripper, the infamous, never caught serial killer who terrorised the foggy streets of ...
2. Greenwich Walk Next on my list of historical London walking tours is Greenwich. This part of the city is known for its maritime history, royal residences, famous observatory, covered market, and great London views. My self-guided London walk will take you from the River Thames to the Royal Observatory and through the markets and side streets.
Next on our historic self-guided City of London walking tour is the Tower of London. It was founded in 1066, but the white tower that gives the castle its name was built by William the Conqueror in 1078. ... Our City of London walking tour ends at Tower Bridge tube station. We hope you enjoyed it. TOWER BRIDGE. MORE LONDON GUIDES. Check out all ...
1. Hidden London Walking Tours On this tour, you'll follow your guide along the quiet side streets of the city. Journey off the beaten path to London's most unusual sights. On the historical and unusual walking tour of London's hidden attractions, you'll get to; Visit an old Cabman's shelter.
We offer 5* rated walking tours throughout London by the finest blue badge guides. Join us for a few hours of discovery, facts and entertainment. Toggle navigation . How to Go on a Walk. Do we book? Or just turn up? Walks Cost £15. £10 for concs. £5 for kids. Walks Last 2 Hours. We go rain or shine.
A Royal Palaces Tour. Enjoy a whistle-stop tour of three beautiful London Palaces, two royal parks, and finish off with High Tea on this brilliant London walking tour (well, technically there's one black cab involved). Kensington, Buckingham, and St James Palaces await you on this Royal guided walk.
1. Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of London's Fiery History: history tours in London RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 110+ reviews | TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | BOOK NOW WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR Walking tour Small group tour Learn obscure trivia 9 stops History buffs might think they already know everything about London's history.
Here you will find hidden gems and lots of suggested self-guided historical walks to help you discover London's living history. ... a lover of all things London, history and walking! My mission is to uncover the history of London that you can get out to see, do and experience. In doing so, hopefully I can help Londoners see their home in a ...
11 Incredible Routes 4.88 out of 5 781 reviews Interactive walking tours of London, bring the city to life. CityDays brings an immersive new way to have a walking tour in London Discover London's historic landmarks, secret sights & hidden gems Solve fun challenges & puzzling clues to unlock your way Optional breaks at top-rated pubs, bars and cafes
Self-Guided Neighbourhood Walking Tours. Though we love showing guests around London, we realize that not everyone has the time to take a guided walking tour. If our tour schedule doesn't work for you, or if you would rather explore on your own, then take advantage of our totally free self-guided tours!
Book Now Our London pub tour takes you to some of the most historic pubs and watering holes in the city. It's a great way to get a feel for one of Britain's most famous cultural pastimes. You'll get to visit London's most famous pubs & ale houses on a guided afternoon walk.
Walking tour of East Bloomsbury. 01 March 2024, 1:00 pm-2:00 pm. We will wander the quiet back streets and green spaces of this fascinating district, looking out for notable trees, architectural gems, and some historic blue plaques. Meet at the entrance to Brunswick Square Gardens opposite the Brunswick Centre at 1pm (map attached), the walk ...