tours of canada house london

Canada House

Top ways to experience Canada House and nearby attractions

• Charing Cross • 2 min walk
• Leicester Square • 5 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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CANADA HOUSE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Open House Festival

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Canada House

embassy/high commission

Sir Robert Smirke, 1823

Trafalgar Square, SW1Y 5BJ

Canada's diplomatic home in the United Kingdom, the revitalised Canada House serves as a showcase for the very best of Canadian art and design in the 21C.

Getting there

Leicester Square, Embankment, Charing Cross

Charing Cross

12, 139, 159, 176, 87

Additional travel info

Our building is adjacent to Trafalgar Square and walkable from most Central London locations.

• Accessible toilet

Canada House was built between 1824 and 1827 by the leading architect of the time, Sir Robert Smirke, who also designed the British Museum.

The bold neo-hellenic lines of Canada House were the precursor for the new architectural style adopted in Trafalgar Square, and were a complete transformation from the Regency style of the time.

It was designed originally as two buildings behind a common façade, the Union Club to the south, and the Royal College of Physicians to the north.

In 1923, Canadian High Commissioner, the Honourable Peter Larkin, led the purchase of the Union Club on behalf of the Canadian government. The plan was to secure diplomatic premises in the heart of an area known at the time as 'Little Canada'. Architect Septimus Warwick was engaged to refurbish the building, which involved major remodelling of the interior and reconstruction of the south façade. King George V officially opened Canada House in June 1925.

During World War II, Canada House became fondly known as a home away from home for Canadians serving in the Allied Forces.

In 1964 the High Commission acquired the lease to the Royal College of Physicians. In the process of incorporating two buildings into one, a number of features were covered up or removed. Many of these aspects were rediscovered during more recent refurbishment work.

21st Century Showcase

In 2014, Canada House underwent a large scale revitalisation that included linking the heritage building to the former Sun Life Assurance of Canada building on Cockspur Street.

Together, the buildings now represent the new Canada House and are home to all of Canada’s diplomatic activities in the United Kingdom.

The project ensured that Canada House serves as a true showcase of the country in the 21st century. From design elements to interiors, furnishing and almost 300 pieces of Canadian art, Canada House today brings the best of the nation to the very heart of London.

Visiting Canada House Gallery

In addition to our Tour of Canada House, Canada House Gallery stays open as usual, Monday to Saturday. If you did not manage to get tickets for our Canada House Tour, make sure you take advantage of our gallery to enter this beautiful building. Exhibitions change every couple of months and all the details can be found on the website.

Online presence

www.instagram.com/canadaintheuk

twitter.com/canadianuk

Guided tour

1-4 Suffolk Street: Uni of Notre Dame & G.K Chesterton

Built for the United Universities Club, 1-4 Suffolk Street is now home to the University of Notre Dame and its G.K Chesterton Collection. Visitors will be able to enjoy both this Edwardian listed building and the unique collection within.

Reginald Blomfield, 1906

The British Academy

institution/profession

One of London's finest examples of Georgian architecture, Carlton House Terrace is a Grade 1 listed townhouse originally designed by John Nash and built between 1827 and 1833. Today it is home to the British Academy, the UK’s national academy for the humanities and social sciences.

John Nash, 1827

National Portrait Gallery Architecture Highlights Tours

Discover the architecture of the National Portrait Gallery, designed in 1896 by Ewan Christian and now transformed by Jamie Fobert Architects. Please meet at the Ross Street Entrance. Drop-in 16 & 17 September at specific times listed below. But please note that spaces are extremely limited and tour places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Please arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Ewan Christian, 1896

St Martin-in-the-Fields

religious, concert/performance space, restaurant/bar

One of Britain's finest churches, built in the Italian Baroque tradition and beautifully restored in 2008. Sustainable features include new heating and management systems and lightwell. RIBA Award Winner 2009. Civic Trust Award Winner 2010.

James Gibbs, 1726

College of Optometrists

institution/profession, library, museum

HQ of professional and examining body for UK optometrists occupying two terraced houses, No. 41 (Flitcroft c1730 with later additions) and No. 42 (rebuilt by Tarmac plc, c1989) including Council chamber, print room, library and museum.

Henry Flitcroft, 1730

Benjamin Franklin House

historical house, museum

In the heart of London, just steps from famed Trafalgar Square, is Benjamin Franklin House, the world's only remaining Franklin home. For nearly sixteen years between 1757 and 1775, Dr Benjamin Franklin – scientist, diplomat, philosopher, inventor, Founding Father of the United States and more – lived behind its doors. Built circa 1730, we are a Grade I listed house in central London.

Baron William Craven the Younger, 1732

The Royal Society

institution/profession, scientific, education, library, online

A spectacular Grade I listed building designed by famed architect John Nash. Built in 1831, these former townhouses have undergone refurbishments throughout their history. The building is now home to the UK's national science academy.

John Nash, Decimus Burton, 1831

Reform Club

Built as a Whig gentleman's club and inspired by Italian Renaissance palaces. Lobby leads to an enclosed colonnaded courtyard with complementary glazed roof and tessellated floor. Tunnelled staircase leads to upper floor.

Charles Barry, 1841

Westminster Quaker Meeting House

religious, mixed use

Three centuries of Quakers in Westminster. Opened in 1883, with front doors added in the 1920s. It was bomb-damaged in 1941 and rebuilt in 1956. Grade II listed registered place of worship, it contains a peaceful meeting room and 1950s wood panelling and fittings.

W. W. Lee and J. A. Tregelles, 1883

The Banqueting House

historical house, palace, concert/performance space

Stunning regal building, the only surviving building from Whitehall Palace, one of the first examples of the principles of Palladianism being applied to an English building. Site of a set of magnificent ceiling paintings by Rubens.

Inigo Jones, 1619

National Liberal Club

An impressive Victorian neo-Classical building overlooking the Embankment of the river Thames. It is the second-largest clubhouse ever built, the first London building to incorporate a lift and to be entirely lit by electric lighting.

Alfred Waterhouse, 1886

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Canada House

Top ways to experience Canada House and nearby attractions

• Charing Cross • 2 min walk
• Leicester Square • 5 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Canada House - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Language selection

High commission of canada in the united kingdom, in london.

We provide services to Canadians visiting and living in the United Kingdom.

We also provide services to Canadians in:

The Falkland Islands and Gibraltar

Emergency consular assistance

Canadian citizens in need of emergency consular assistance during business hours:

• by email at [email protected]
• by phone at +44 (0) 207 004 6000
• Outside of business hours, see Request emergency assistance

Services and information

Adoption and surrogacy.

Process to adopt a child internationally and bring them back to Canada.

Birth abroad

Register a child's birth abroad.

Child abduction

Steps to take if your child is abducted in Canada or abroad.

Citizenship services

Steps to become a Canadian citizen. Get proof of citizenship.

Criminal record checks

How to get a criminal record check abroad, if required.

Death abroad

Steps to follow when a loved one dies abroad.

Divorce abroad

Information on divorce procedures while abroad.

Legal matters

Steps to take should you need legal help abroad.

Marriage abroad

Requirements, documents and processes for getting married abroad.

Notarial services

Have your documents certified and authenticated.

Passport services

Apply for a passport and what to do if your passport is lost, stolen or damaged.

Pensions and retirement

Information on pensions and retiring outside of Canada.

Same-sex marriage abroad

Country specific information on same-sex marriage.

Studying abroad

Information on education or research opportunities in foreign countries.

Visa and immigration services

Apply to immigrate. Get a visa to study, work or visit Canada.

Voting abroad

Voting process for Canadians who live abroad.

Office information

Canada House, Trafalgar Square, London, SW1Y 5BJ, England, United Kingdom

Telephone:  +44 (0) 207 004 6000

Fax:  +44 (0) 207 004 6053

Email:   [email protected]

Hours of operation:

Email:   [email protected]

Telephone:  +44 207 004 6114

Email:   [email protected]

Email:   [email protected]

Website: IRCC web form

Our representative

The Honourable Ralph Goodale High Commissioner for Canada in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization

• High Commission of Canada to the United Kingdom

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• @CanadianUK
• Canadian High Commission UK
• High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom

Office closures

These closures are subject to change in the event of a large-scale emergency. Emergency consular assistance for Canadians is always available 24/7.

Related links

• Visit Canada House
• Canada Plus newsletter
• Royal events in the UK
• Culture Canada

Canada House

• Indigenous London: Covent Garden to Westminster
• United Kingdom

England E1 6FQ, United Kingdom

Created By: Beyond the Spectacle

Information

The building on the other side of Trafalgar Square is is the Canadian High Commission. Throughout the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, officials have consistently worked against the efforts of Indigenous Canadian activists who travelled to London in search of, for example, land rights. As such, the High Commission has been—and remains—a contested space. Look for interesting temporary exhibitions here, often having to do with Indigenous arts—in 2019, for instance, they exhibited Kwakwaka'wakw artist Sonny Assu and Mohawk artist Skawennati. Many Indigenous servicemen and women worked here during World War II, as well, celebrating VE Day in Trafalgar Square.

This point of interest is part of the tour: Indigenous London: Covent Garden to Westminster

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Updates and Corrections

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Canada House

Top ways to experience Canada House and nearby attractions

• Charing Cross • 2 min walk
• Leicester Square • 5 min walk

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

CANADA HOUSE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Canada Gallery

next exhibition

Honouring Our Future

Yukon first nations graduation regalia.

In partnership with Yukon Arts Centre and Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre

Canada Gallery is a space within Canada House programmed by the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom.

As a key part of our cultural diplomacy programming, Canada Gallery offers a welcoming, accessible space that projects Canadian values and supports Government of Canada key priorities, primarily through the programming of Canadian contemporary art.  Canada Gallery develops its programme through partnerships with Canadian and UK institutions and hosts three exhibitions a year.

Our Previous Exhibitions

Canada Gallery develops its programming through partnerships with Canadian and UK institutions and hosts four exhibitions a year. Take a look at our previous exhibitions.

Ningiukulu Teevee

Stories from kinngait.

Long interested in people’s connection to their environment, John Hartman embarked on a project to capture the intimate relationship Canadian authors have with their personal places of...

February 8th 2024 – June 1st 2024

London’s first public art exhibition that saves lives in Ukraine

January 19th 2024 – January 31st 2024

Stephen Appleby-Barr

Échelle: new paintings and sculptures.

October 6th 2023 – January 13th 2024

Aesthetic Survival in Hip-Hop’s Visual Art

Group exhibition

June 15th 2023 – September 23rd 2023

His Majesty Charles III, King of Canada

Come visit our new Canada Gallery exhibition about His Majesty King Charles III and his deep connections to Canada.

April 11th 2023 – June 3rd 2023

JOHN HARTMAN

Many lives mark this place.

Canadian Writers in the Landscapes that Inspire Them

January 20th 2023 – April 1st 2023

Queer Portraits | Portraits Queers

JJ Levine’s portraits celebrate people who self-identify as queer

April 22nd 2022 – July 2nd 2022

Jason Baerg

Tawâskweyâw ᑕᐋᐧᐢᑫᐧᔮᐤ - a path or gap among the trees.

A partnership with the Woodland Cultural Centre (Brantford, Ontario)

October 6th 2021 – December 31st 2021

Zachari Logan

Wild flower.

A partnership with New Art Projects, London

June 30th 2021 – September 18th 2021

Meryl McMaster

As immense as the sky.

McMaster set out to gather the wisdom and folklore of relatives on both sides of her heritage.

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Our bi-monthly newsletter of updates and news about Canadian arts, culture and events in the UK.

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21 best london tours of 2024.

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

The Best London Tours

Courtesy of Secret Food Tours

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

Editor’s Pick: Premium Tours – Full Day London Tour

Price: Adults from 143 pounds (about $183); kids from 133 pounds (about $170) Duration: 9 hours

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

This full-day bus tour packs in an impressive number of London’s must-see sights, with free time to explore at each stop. We boarded at Victoria Coach Station before ambling through Westminster, getting up-close views of honey-hued Parliament Square – framed by the Houses of Parliament , Big Ben and Westminster Abbey – from the bus. From there it was on to St. Paul’s Cathedral , where we were given a guided tour of this chandelier-bedecked marvel as our English guide shared intriguing facts about its history. Next up was Buckingham Palace, where our guide timed it so we’d catch the changing of the guard. Our next stop was the Tower of London , where we had a brief lunch break and guided orientation before having a couple of hours to roam freely. Most of the tour group made an immediate beeline for the crown jewels, eyes goggling at the impressive collection of diamond encrusted crowns and gold chalices. We rounded off the day with a cruise along the Thames. The tour ended at the London Eye , where several in the group had opted for an add-on whirl on the wheel, and a few left for cream tea at Harrod’s (two activities included in the upgraded ticket option).

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

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

Laura French

Why we love it:

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

– Laura French

Check prices & availability on:

Secret Food Tours – London Bridge

Price: Adults from 79 pounds (about $100); kids from 69 pounds (about $88) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

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

The tour begins at bustling Borough Market, where you'll snack on a bacon and egg bap (the U.K. version of a breakfast sandwich) as your guide tells you about the history of the market, as well as an overview of the city's history and culture. Other stops include a historic pub for a cheese tasting paired with English cider. And – as is standard on a Secret Food Tour – there will be a secret dish offered somewhere along the way. As you eat your way through London, you'll also enjoy great views of the city skyline, London Bridge and Tower Bridge. Past participants appreciate the quantity and quality of food provided, as well as the entertaining guides.

Tours depart several times a day between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Secret Food Tours also offers tours of the Shoreditch district, among other areas.

BrakeAway Bike Tours – The Secret London Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 32 pounds (about $41); kids from 26 pounds (about $33) Duration: 3.5 hours

This London bike tour leads riders past famous sights, such as the Tower of London and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, but also explores lesser-known features of the city, including its street art and secret passageways. It also includes a 20-minute stop at Brick Lane. Reviewers extol the fun guides and say the tour is ideal if you want a break from the tourist crowds. Plus, they say it's a great value for the money.

Tours are offered daily from late March through October at 3 p.m. Tour prices include bikes, helmets and rain ponchos. Children 9 and younger are not permitted on the tour, and groups are capped at 12 participants. For a more traditional tour of London, consider the company's Grand London Bike Tour.

Liquid History Tours – Drink London Tour

Price: From 25 pounds (about $32) Duration: 3 to 4 hours

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

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

The Ghost Bus Tours

Price: Adults from 25 pounds (about $32); kids from 17 pounds (about $22) Duration: 75 minutes

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

Tours last approximately 75 minutes and run several times each evening, though departure times vary by day.

London Bicycle Tour Company – The Classic Tour

Price: Adults from 33.95 pounds (about $43); kids from 24.95 pounds (about $32) Duration: 3 hours

Travelers consistently give the London Bicycle Tour Company high marks for its fun guides who are vigilant about ensuring riders' safety. On the Classic Tour – which travels about 8 miles – you'll breeze past Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Banksy Tunnel (where you'll likely witness artists at work) and other local landmarks. Your tour guide will offer commentary and give you plenty of time to stop and take photos. Children need to be at least 10 years old and stable riders to participate.

Tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. To admire the city lights at night, consider the company's daily sunset ride.

Courtesy of Alternative London

Alternative London – Street Art Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds ($25); kids from 14 pounds (about $18) Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Promising to show you things London guidebooks don't cover, Alternative London's walking tour takes you to East London, where guides showcase the area's street art and discuss its culture and history. The company employs street artists and other creative types as guides so you get an insider's look into the community, something travelers say makes the tour unique. No two tours are alike because every guide has their favorite route and spots to highlight. Past tourgoers say the tour is fun and full of interesting insights.

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

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

Price: From 134 pounds (about $170) Duration: 12 hours

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

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

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

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Price: Adults from 53.50 pounds ($68); kids from 43 pounds ($55) Duration: 3.5 to 7 hours

If you're a fan of Harry Potter, you already know that this London tour is a must – and previous tourgoers confirm it lives up to the hype. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter offers a behind-the-scenes look at sets, props and costumes used in the film franchise. Walk through the Great Hall – which is set for dinner – and explore Diagon Alley and Platform 9 3/4. Other exhibits include Creature Effects, where you can see how characters like Buckbeak the Hippogriff and Aragog were brought to life. You can even enjoy a butterbeer in the Backlot Café. Special exhibits are also displayed throughout the year and around the holidays.

Plan to spend at least half a day to fully experience the collection and discover its intricate details. Themed packages and add-on experiences are also available. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

City Experiences – Evening Cruise on the River Thames

Price: From 30 pounds (about $38) Duration: 2 hours

City Experiences offers evening cruises on the River Thames, a lovely way to end your day in London. Upon boarding, a server greets you with a complimentary glass of prosecco, and hors d'oeuvres are served throughout the two-hour cruise. You'll enjoy live background music as you take in the sights from your seat on the open-air upstairs deck or inside the saloon with picture windows. Previous travelers say they enjoyed the cruise, noting it is relaxing and affords spectacular views for photos.

In the warm weather months, cruises run daily at 6:30 p.m.; beginning in October, cruises are available Thursday through Sunday only. Patrons must be age 13 or older to join the tour. Other London river cruises offered by City Experiences include a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing cruise.

Courtesy of Jack the Ripper Tour

The Jack the Ripper Tour With Ripper-Vision

Price: Adults from 18 pounds (about $23); kids from 10 pounds (about $13) Duration: 2 hours

This offbeat Jack the Ripper tour has a unique spin: the company uses what it calls "Ripper-Vision" to tell the story of the notorious murderer. A hand-held projector, "Ripper-Vision" displays pictures on walls and sides of buildings throughout the tour, allowing the guides to show (and tell) all about the infamous serial killer. You'll visit the actual murder sites where Jack the Ripper commited his crimes, and will get a glimpse of what London was like in the late 1800s. Tourgoers say guides are informative, entertaining and skilled at retelling the stories of Jack the Ripper's escapades.

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

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Eating Europe – East End Food Tour

Price: Adults from 85 pounds (about $108); kids from 70 pounds (about $89) Duration: 3.5 hours

Eating Europe's East End food tour is a 3.5-hour exploration of one of London's most diverse and interesting neighborhoods. Participants will enjoy food at six restaurants, pubs, markets, bakeries and shops. Along with classic (and award-winning) fish and chips, you'll also sample some of the city's best curry, bagels and pastries. Reviewers rave about the delicious and varied offerings on this tour and encourage future participants to pace themselves so they can enjoy every bite.

Tours run throughout the day, every day, beginning at 11 a.m. There is a maximum of 12 people per tour. Eating Europe also offers tours of Soho and Borough Market.

Fat Tire Tours – Royal London Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 35 pounds (about $44); kids from 29 pounds (about $37) Duration: 4 hours

Fascinated with the monarchy? On this approximately four-hour cycling excursion from Fat Tire Tours, expert guides lead you to spots like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Kensington Palace, all while sharing intrigue and stories about British royalty. Midway through the tour, there is a half-hour lunch break near Trafalgar Square (at your own expense). Bikers say the tour provides a great way to see iconic sights and describe guides as informative and friendly.

Rides are offered daily at 10:30 a.m.; an additional 3:30 p.m. tour may also be available depending on the day and month. Schedules vary during the winter. Travelers should note reservations are required for this tour, and helmets are provided. Fat Tire Tours also offers cycling tours along the Thames, bike rentals and private tours.

Evan Evans Tours – Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

Price: Adults from 95 pounds (about $121); kids from 85 pounds (about $108) Duration: 11 hours

The first stop on this day trip from London is Windsor Castle – the largest occupied castle in the world. Here, you'll have time to stroll the immaculate grounds and pay a visit to St George's Chapel, the location of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 2018 nuptials. From there, you'll head to the city of Bath, England – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's home to the world-famous Roman Baths. The last stop of the day is Stonehenge. In all, the tour lasts about 11 hours. Reviewers rave about the entertaining, passionate guides, but some do bemoan the pace of the tour, saying certain parts felt rushed. However, all agree this is a great way to cross some must-see landmarks off your bucket list.

Tours depart Victoria Coach Station daily at 8 a.m. Evan Evans Tours also operates a similar tour that stops in Oxford instead of Bath.

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

Brigit's Bakery London – Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour

Price: Adults from 45 pounds (about $57); kids from 35 pounds (about $44) Duration: 1.5 hours

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

Tours, which last about 90 minutes, run several times daily and depart from either Northumberland Avenue or Victoria Coach Station. The tour accommodates several dietary restrictions, though these options may have an additional fee. Children ages 4 and younger are not permitted. Prefer gin to tea? The company also offers a Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, among other options.

Tally Ho! – Landmarks and Gems Royal London Bike Tour

Price: From 55 pounds (about $70) Duration: 3.5 hours

On the London Landmarks & Gems cycling tour, Tally Ho! leads visitors to the city's major sights, while expert guides offer their insights and informative commentary – a point of praise for many reviewers. Other highlights include seeing the royal guards (and possibly the changing of the guard ceremony), spray painting in the Leake Street tunnel and grabbing a pint at a pub. The tour covers about 5 miles and travels at a leisurely pace, with time for photo stops.

Tours ride twice daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., though times may vary seasonally. There may only be an afternoon ride during the fall and winter months, and an additional tour at 9:30 a.m. runs during the summer months. There is a maximum of 12 people per tour. A helmet or tweed flat cap and spray paint are provided to bikers. Tally Ho! offers a variety of cycling and walking tours, including a gin "safari."

Thames Rockets – Ultimate London Adventure

Price: From 49.95 pounds ($63) Duration: 50 minutes

The 50-minute Ultimate London Adventure tour is a sightseeing cruise like no other. As your actor-turned-guide narrates your trip, you'll take in iconic sights along the Thames, such as the Tate Modern, the Gherkin and the Houses of Parliament. Once you get under the Tower Bridge, the speedboat captain ramps up to speeds of 30 knots (35 mph) and takes you on a thrilling ride as the music blasts and passengers shriek. Tourgoers describe it as an exhilarating, fantastic experience.

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

Courtesy of Tour for Muggles

Tour for Muggles

Price: Adults from 17 pounds (about $22); kids from 15 pounds (about $19) Duration: 2 hours

One of the best Harry Potter tours in London , this option garners rave reviews from witches, wizards, Muggles and Squibs who appreciate both the knowledgeable tour guides and seeing their favorite "Harry Potter" locations in real life. Tour for Muggles takes visitors through London for approximately two hours to see locations where the movies were shot, as well as places that inspired author J.K. Rowling.

Tours are limited to 20 people and run several times a day Tuesday through Sunday.

Gin Journey London

Price: From 75 pounds (about $95) Duration: 4.5 hours

If you enjoy imbibing in gin, you'll love taking a tour with Gin Journey, where your expert "gin guardian" takes you to five different venues in London in a chauffeur-driven minibus. During the 4.5-hour tour, you'll sample five different gins, enjoy five gin cocktails, visit a distillery and learn all about this spirit and why it's having a modern renaissance. Reviewers praise the guides, the drinks and the tour's great organization.

Gin Journeys can be booked in different neighborhoods, including Hackney and Soho. Tours, which are capped at 20 people, are offered every Saturday at 1 or 2 p.m., depending on which neighborhood you choose to book. Ticket discounts may be available for early bookings.

Strawberry Tours – Free Soho Tour London

Price: Free Duration: 2 hours

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

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

Check availability on:

Free Tours by Foot – World War Two Tour of London

On this two-hour walking tour of London, you'll learn about London during the Blitz, hear tales of how the city was rebuilt after the war and walk past landmarks that survived the bombings, such as St. Paul's Cathedral. Tour-takers value the engaging guides and the amount of history shared on the tour. They also say guides tailor the tour to participants' interests.

Visitors can name their own price, paying what they think the tour was worth at the excursion's conclusion. Tours operate Thursday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Reservations are required to guarantee a spot. Free Tours by Foot offers a variety of walking and food tours, including tours of Westminster and London street art, among many others.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in London
• The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace
• The Best Stonehenge Tours from London
• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Tours , Vacations , Travel , London , Europe Vacations , United Kingdom Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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London police treating probe into alleged arson on Muslim family’s home as hate-motivated

Police in London, Ont., are looking for a suspect after the front porch of a house was set on fire in what investigators are treating as a hate-motivated attack on a Muslim family.

Police and fire crews responded late Saturday night after reports of a fire at a two-storey house on the northwestern edge of the city. No one was home at the time of the fire and there were no injuries, said Kirk Loveland, platoon chief with the London Fire Department.

“Fortunately, the fire had been knocked down by a neighbour with a garden hose,” Mr. Loveland said.

Police said the house has been targeted multiple times in recent months, including property damage and the theft of signs that expressed support for Palestinians .

The incident occurred just two days after a vigil marking the third anniversary of the hate-motivated terrorist attack that killed four members of a Muslim family in London and orphaned the family’s youngest son in June, 2021. The attacker was sentenced to life in prison earlier this year as a judge labelled it a terrorist attack.

The owner of the home, who has been living in Canada for more than 30 years, said in an interview that the alleged arson has left him and his family in distress. At the time of the incident, he said no one was home except his cat. The Globe and Mail agreed not to identify the man because he fears for his family’s safety.

“It is indeed an Islamophobic hate crime, but it is also an anti-Palestine hate crime,” the man said. “It is sad to see our home in native Canada, our country, reach that dangerous level of taking away our freedom of speech.”

Police estimated the damages to the house to be about $30,000, although the man said that’s not his focus right now. “I lost a very valuable thing, which is peace. It’s not a matter of how many dollars.”

The London police said in a news release that an hour before the incident, a man walked up to the house and took items from the front yard. Then, an hour later, the same man returned and started the fire on the front porch before fleeing again.

Detective-Inspector Alex Krygsman of the London Police Service said in addition to the acts of violence, a threatening note was previously left at the home.

“I know this is a trying time for the Muslim community,” Det.-Insp. Krygsman said, adding that investigators have been conducting outreach to members of the community since the incident. “We’ll continue to do that, not just for the Muslim community, but for all communities in the city. There is no room for hate in our community, unequivocally.”

In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Sunday evening, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the country must continue to fight Islamophobia.

“My heart goes out to the Muslim family in London whose home was attacked last night in an act of hate. Canadians have seen how dangerous and ugly Islamophobia is. We have to keep confronting it – wherever and whenever we see it,” Mr. Trudeau said.

My heart goes out to the Muslim family in London whose home was attacked last night in an act of hate. Canadians have seen how dangerous and ugly Islamophobia is. We have to keep confronting it—wherever and whenever we see it. — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 10, 2024

The National Council of Canadian Muslims also took to X to share their concerns following the incident, saying the attack was “deeply disturbing, disappointing, and ugly.”

“It is almost impossible to find the words to describe the anguish and disappointment our community feels regarding these attacks in London,” the organization wrote.

Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh posted his support for the family on X. “Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community. The rise in Islamophobia we’re seeing is extremely troubling – we must confront it at every instance.”

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