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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 🛏Or stay in one of these trendy London Airbnbs 🍽Have you heard about these 50 best restaurants in London yet ? 

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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.

Best for:  laid-back tours with a tonne of detail

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!

Best for  pretty backdrops and scones 

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.

Best for:  Grub, detail and umptuous views of Tower bridge and the river. 

Time Out tip: A word of warning, this tour is a little boozy...

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.

Best for: muggles, whiches, wizards big and small 

Time Out tip: If you're trying to strike that balance between a family-friendly and budget-friendly trip to the capital, you'll be pleased to know that children under four currently go free. 

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.

Best for: the history buffs 

Time Out tip:  Your meeting point is outside Westminster - the Victoria Embankment (exit 2). If in doubt look for the huge green flower stall. 

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.

Best for: a taste of royal pageantry 

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. During 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.

Best for:  a   gritty detour...

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.

Best for: a historical taste of London, but with beer goggles

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.

Best for:  Sherlock fans and lovers of mystery and all things Victorian

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 explore 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 meeting 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 7 pm start is past the little ’uns bedtimes).

Best for: discovering London's gory underbelly

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.

Best for:  London's maritime history

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.

Best for: suspensful storytelling

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.

Best for: First-timers

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.

Best for: London iconography with an authentic twist

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.

Best for:  a taste of London's artsy, urban scene

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Walking Tours of London

See our Calendar Below for All Tours, as well as Things to Do & Travel Tips

Featured tours.

Historic London Pub Tour

Historic london pub tour highlights.

• Royal Westminster

Royal Westminster Highlights

• St. James's Palace
• Buckingham Palace
• The Changing of the Guard **
• The Houses of Parliament
• Westminster Abbey
• 10 Downing St.
• Churchill War Rooms
• St. James's Park
• and much more!

Graffiti & Street Art

Graffiti & street art highlights.

• Whitechapel (made famous by the ‘Whitechapel Murders’ – committed by Jack the Ripper)
• Liverpool Street
• The Old Jewish Quarter

All in One Highlights

• St. Paul's Cathedral
• The Tower of London
• The Bank of England
• HMS Belfast
• London Bridge
• Tate Modern
• Millennium Bridge
• Tower Bridge
• London Monument
• River Thames
• Changing of the Guard
• Trafalgar Square
• London Underground
• Temple Church

• Harry Potter

Harry Potter Highlights

• Westminster Tube (closest tube to the Ministry of Magic as seen in The Order of the Phoenix)
• Cecil's Court (aka Diagon Alley)
• St. Paul’s (Geometrical Staircase as seen in the Prisoner of Azkaban)*
• Godwin’s Court (aka Knockturn Alley)
• The Palace Theatre (home to the ‘The Cursed Child' - the 8th story in the Harry Potter franchise) - Tickets *
• Horseguards Avenue (Ministry of Magic Staff Entrance as seen in Deathly Hallows Part 1)
• Millennium Bridge (rebuilt after the attack by the Death Eaters! (then a walk past Shakespeare's globe)
• Scotland Yard Place/Horse Guards Avenue (Ministry of Magic Visitors entrance as seen in the Order of the Phoenix and Deathly Hallows Part 1)
• Trafalgar Square (Location of the final Harry Potter film premiere)
• Downing Street (Muggle Prime Minister's Office and location of communication between the Muggle PM and the wizarding world) Note: Depending on your guide and the day/time, the tour will finish at either Leadenhall Market or Borough Market (both sites have been used as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron (as seen in the Philosopher's Stone and Prisoner of Azkaban onwards respectively.)

WWII London

Wwii london highlights.

Just some of the locations covered...

• The ruins of Grey Friar's and the Memorial Garden
• The Barbican
• The Guildhall

Walking tours of London, including guided walks, free self-guided, and GPS-led audio tours, are a great way to experience the city.

We provide a platform for professional, freelance tour guides to lead affordable walking tours so that you can enjoy a quality sightseeing experience no matter your budget. 

Our model of live guided tours ensures that your guide strives to give his or her best on every tour, from our name-your-own price tours, where you choose how much the tour is worth, to specialty ticketed tours.

• Guided Walking Tours
• Free Self Guided Tours (written and researched by our team of professional guides)
• Audio Tours (written, researched, AND recorded by the same guides!)

Everyone should be permitted to take a guided tour for a price they feel it is worth! We offer name-your-own-price tours and ticketed specialty tours to cover all budgets and interests.

• Due to city regulations and the overall enjoyment of guests, we must limit our group size and have a strict Group Policy for groups 6+.
• If your group is 10 or more, please refer to our private booking page
• Some tours have a reservation fee to help us maintain group size for popular tours and support our State School Scholarship.

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REGULARLY SCHEDULED TOURS

• London All in One
• Brixton History, Street Art and Culture
• City of London
• Notting Hill Markets and Culture
• Shakespeare's London
• Graffiti and Street Art
• Majestic Mayfair
• Soho, Piccadilly Circus and Chinatown
• World War II
• Sunday Southbank
• Rock n' Roll
• Dark Side of London Ghost Tour
• Jack the Ripper

Food/Pub Tours Tours

• Borough Market and Maltby Street
• East London Food Tour
• City of London Historic Pubs
• Bermondsey Beer Mile
• Pub Crawl and Cockney Sing-a-Long
• Westminster auf Deutsch
• Royal Kensington
• London Christmas Lights
• Twilight on the Thames Night Tour

PRIVATE ONLY

• British Museum
• Covent Garden and the West End
• London Christmas Markets
• London Docks
• The Tea Tour
• The Final Journey : Execution Walk to Tyburn

AUDIO TOURS

Can't make one of our guided tours?

No problem, we have recorded some of our best tour guides giving their tours and made them available to you at any time.  

Here is how it works:

• Purchase an Audio Tour
• Receive a confirmation email with details.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

Even if you don't download any tours, you will still have access to valuable information on sightseeing, eating, and playing in London.

Available Tours:

• Royal London (Westminster)
• Harry Potter Locations  (in English and en Espanol)
• Rock N Roll London
• Thames River Walk
• Royal Borough of Greenwich
• Kensington Gardens
• Public Bus #11 (temporarily rerouted - unavailable)

Private London walking tour?

We also offer our guiding services for private groups where we can guide you anywhere in London. We are also experts in the region. 

Call us or email us and we will get back to you with a timely quote.  

And much, much more

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20 Best Free Walking Tours in London

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Are you looking for the best free walking tours in London? Don’t know which one to pick?

Check our selection of the best free tours you can experience and enjoy an up-close encounter of London’s opulent culture and eclectic architecture that are bound to etch themselves into your memory for life.

A visit to any one of the walking tours on this list is bound to add excitement to your trip, and best of all- they’re free!

Please note that some free walking tours of London are exclusively in English, while others are in Spanish or other languages. Make sure to pick the right one.

1 – Free tour British Museum London

This tour takes you on a three-hour excursion to one of the most important museums in the world!

More than eight million objects are on display giving you a glimpse of two million years of human history and rarities.

A nesting ground for both the curious and the studious, this tour is plush with information guaranteed to equip you with the knowledge that will last a lifetime.

• Book this tour

2 – Free Westminster tour + Changing of the Guard

Considered one of the most distinguished Free Walking Tours in London, this experience is coupled with a chance to witness the Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace.

Learn about the fascinating history behind this iconic tradition while strolling along several locations famously occupied by the British Royals.

Pass by the renowned Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the Prime Minister’s residence- this tour is packed with imperial features you’re sure to enjoy!

• See reviews

3 – Royal London free walking tour

The most famous landmarks of London are all part of the Royal London free walking tour.

Get insight on London’s Royal history as you take in the sites of Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, Horse Guards Parade, Big Ben, and more.

Loads of information wait behind every feature of this two-and-a-half-hour tour.

Hot tip: Compare the best walking tours in London and step into the city’s vibrant culture

4 – Full London in 6 hours

Got some extra time on your hands? Then use it to see the whole of one of the world’s greatest cities!

Taste the food, uncover the ancient secrets of the City of London and visit world-famous landmarks like the Tower of London, Bank of England, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

You may think six hours is a long time, but in the end, you’ll be begging for more after experiencing all the wonders that London has to share.

5 – London at Night – Royal Zone with Christmas Lights

They say everything looks different at night, and you can judge for yourself while walking the London streets at Christmas time.

The legendary Christmas lights make this one of the best Free Walking Tours in London as they cast their majestic glow amidst the dark winter streets.

See Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, British Parliament, and many other sites transformed with the festive gleams of Christmas lights in London!

6 – Free tour London Essential

Tour the district of Westminster and learn about key attractions that make up Britain’s culture.

You’ll see the Buckingham Palace, the Wellington Barracks and the Houses of Parliament. You’ll also take a walk through St James’s Park and might even get a chance encounter with the pelicans there.

Big Ben and the Prime Minister’s residence are also on the list, all while taking in the history of these sites along this significant route.

7 – Soho Free Tour

The scenic Soho neighborhood is a sight for sore eyes and is famously known for its connection to the likes of Carl Marx, Oscar Wilde, and Jimi Hendrix!

A place filled with artistic accents, eccentric architecture and loads of history, the Soho Tour will add flair and fancy to your London vacation.

8 – Camden Town Free Tour

The 90’s Britpop Movement is the secret behind the extravagance and eccentricities that make up London’s most alternative neighborhood of Camden Town.

Vivid colors, quirky themes, and fantastic caricatures all make up the features of this tour.

You will get an intimate glimpse of the neighborhood’s historic transformation over the years from a dwelling for the upper class to a bizarre ensemble of art, bars, and odd charm.

9 – Notting Hill Free Walking Tour

You must have seen the movie that got its name from this famous town, now you can take a walk through this affluent district with loads of famous sites.

From the homes of celebrities like Madonna and Robbie Williams to the quaint and colorful houses, bookstores, gardens, and markets, this is one of the free walking tours in London that you certainly need to add to your list!

10 – The beginnings of the City of London

If you’re a history buff, looking to learn about the origins of the City of London, this tour is the one for you.

Observe rare architecture built since Roman times, learn about the Great Fire of 1666 or visit the medieval castle of London and see its evolution over the centuries.

Marvel in the ancient wonders of London and their perseverance over all these years. This tour will certainly enrich studious minds!

11 – British Rock Free Tour

Renowned for its history and contribution to global Rock n Roll, this tour brings together the best of London’s rock culture in one visit.

Discover stories of the Beatles and Amy Winehouse while visiting places with deep roots in rock music like Oxford Street, 100 Club, Miranda Club, Punk Movement, and many more!

12 – Free Harry Potter Tour

Of all the Free Walking Tours in London, this one is the most magical! Every step of the Free Harry Potter Tour takes you on an enchanted journey in and around London.

See all the amazing buildings that influenced author J.K. Rowling’s penning of the iconic series.

Visit Diagon Alley and other shops where you can get unique memorabilia from the franchise!

13 – Free Street Art Tour

Bring out the street artist in you while walking the streets of London’s East End- also known as the mecca for art enthusiasts from all over the world.

Be amazed by the extravagant graffiti art etched along the walls of various streets.

From Brick Lane, Shoreditch, Fashion Street, Bateman’s Row, and Spitalfields, there are countless opportunities to take in awe-inducing street art on this tour.

14 – Bank of the River Thames Tour

The Borough Market, the Cathedral of San Paulo, and The Millennium Bridge are only a few of the captivating landmarks that you will come across during this tour.

Learn about the history of the theatre of William Shakespeare or visit the locations of major productions like Harry Potter and many more!

15 – London Central Walking Tour by a Local

With fun and humor the main accessory of this tour, you will get to learn about the Queens of England and how they changed the world.

One of the most engaging Free Walking Tours in London, you will encounter all the famous landmarks of Central London , including the National Gallery, St. James’s Palace, Queen Victoria memorial, and others.

16 – Free London Landmarks – West Side

Learn unknown facts and secrets about the most popular figures in British history!

Tales of Henry the VIII, Guy Fawkes, and Winston Churchill await you as you walk past the buildings in which they lived and worked.

Hear the history of London’s rise to becoming history’s biggest empire and of the people who fought and died to defend it.

17 – London Night Walking Tour

London at night is a sight to see, and you’ll realize why once you make this one of your chosen Free Walking Tours in London.

Experience London like never before as you walk through Piccadilly Circus, China Town, Covent Garden, and other magically illuminated attractions while also indulging in the nightlife and bright city lights.

18 – Free London Food Tour

Let your palate be your guide on the Free London Food Tour!

Learn about the history of London’s chic East End while savoring some of the best foods representing the myriad cultures and people who migrated to London.

Try London’s famous chips or a sumptuous samosa – bite after bite you’ll still want more no matter how many foods and stories you come across on this tour!

19 – London in a Day with Changing of the Guard and Views from Above

Did you say two tours in one day? Our wish is your command! This tour packs in a full day of must-see sites in Royal Westminster and the City.

Loaded with non-stop information as you visit the Buckingham Palace- where you’ll see the Changing of the Guard ceremony –  the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, and others-  you won’t believe how quickly time flies while on taking in London in an entire day!

20 – The Origins of the City of Londinium Free Tour

Founded by the Romans over 2000 years ago, the City of London has evolved into one of the world’s most successful financial and business hubs.

On this tour, you can see both modern and ancient sites that make up this fascinating city including the Tower of London, the Bank of England, and the Old Church.

With deep-rooted history and endless fact-filled anecdotes, this tour will equip you with all the information you need about the origin of this city.

We hope you enjoyed our selection of the best free walking tours in London.

Do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions regarding London’s free walking tours.

Enjoy London and have fun 🙂

The British Museum is the largest museum in the UK. It is located in London and has a collection of over 7,500,000 objects from all over the world. The museum was founded in 1753 and is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. The museum houses many world-famous exhibits such as the Rosetta Stone, the Lewis chess pieces, the Sutton Hoo treasure, the Benin bronzes, the Parthenon sculptures and the Egyptian mummies. You could spend your entire stay in the English capital visiting the galleries, but to make sure you get the highlights, the must-sees, we recommend you get professional guidance from the team of Free Tours we offer here at GuruWalk. The first thing you'll notice about the British Museum is the building itself. The British Museum was Norman Foster's first major public commission and the only one he completed in the city. The building is a dome of glass and steel, reflecting and amplifying daylight. The central space of the museum is an atrium that rises to a height of 60 metres (197 feet), employing a new technique in which pre-stressed concrete was poured in long continuous sections. What about the museum's contents? We could start with the King's Library. The King's Library is a collection of over 26,000 books and pamphlets. In 1757, King George II donated his library to the library. It includes many famous texts of English literature, including a copy of the first edition of Sir Isaac Newton's Principia Mathematica and Shakespeare's First Folio. And from here, does the Rosetta Stone ring a bell? The Rosetta Stone is a beautiful artefact that provides an insight into the life of the ancient Egyptians. It has been on display in the British Museum in London since 1802. This artefact is one of the most important discoveries in history and was made when Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Egypt and ordered his troops to Alexandria after defeating the Mamluk forces in Cairo. The British Museum also has many other pieces of Egyptian history. The Ancient Egyptian rooms of the British Museum are a must-see for anyone interested in Egyptian history. The museum offers interactive exhibits, many artefacts and some informative videos. Visitors to these rooms can explore the different periods of Ancient Egyptian history on display. They can also gain some knowledge about the people who lived in ancient Egypt and what their lives were like. The same goes for the rooms specific to Ancient Greece or the Mesopotamian cultures of the Middle East.

Want to share your culture with travelers from all the world?

Free walking tour near london, others cities to visit after london, find other guruwalks in london, where are you traveling to.

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 40 Beautiful Self-Guided London Walking Tours

I love London and I love walking, and I’ve really enjoyed sharing my London walks with you over the last few years. Given the response, I’m pretty sure you like walking, too. Today I want to make it easy for you to find my self-guided London walking tours by putting them all in one blog post.

London Walking Tours

Ever since I started sharing my London walks on the A Lady in London blog, I’ve gotten emails, comments, and messages saying how much you’ve enjoyed following them.

It’s meant a lot to me, and I really appreciate your support and encouragement. I hope to bring you many more in the future, and will add them to this post as I do.

If you want to bookmark or pin it on Pinterest , you can use the post as an easy reference for finding all my past, present, and future self-guided London walking tours.

My first blog post about London walks was a five-in-one special. I covered areas from Hammersmith to Hampstead and included a map for each one.

Since then I’ve gone into a lot more detail, starting with a self-guided walk in Notting Hill and a couple of other London neighborhoods, and branching out from there. You can find details and links to each one below.

1. London Walking Tours: South Kensington to Soho

My first walk is one from South Kensington to Soho. It’s particularly special to me because I used to do it almost every day when I lived in Kensington.

Whenever I had a social or work event in Soho I got to walk through this part of London and take in everything from the museums to Wellington Arch along the way.

It’s a great one if you’re visiting London for the first time and want to walk between attractions. Get the details here .

2. London Walking Tours: South Bank

My second walk is along the South Bank . I love this part of London because there’s always something going on. Whether it’s a summer festival or a Christmas market, the South Bank is bustling year-round.

This one also goes by some of the most famous London landmarks , from the Houses of Parliament to the London Eye and Borough Market .

This is another good London walk for first-time visitors and those that like to be in the heart of the action. Get the details here .

3. London Walking Tours: Thames Path

My third walk is along the Thames Path from Hammersmith to Chiswick . A friend who lived near Hammersmith introduced me to it ages ago, and I’ve been back many times since.

This stretch of river goes by boats and barges, islets and riverside pubs. There are beautiful houses along the way, and lots of lovely gardens to peek into.

It’s the perfect walk if you want something a bit different and a local London experience. Get the details here .

4. London Walking Tours: The Royal Parks

My fourth walk is for people like me who love cities but also adore nature. It offers the best of both worlds as it goes through Hyde Park, Green Park, and St James’s Park.

When I lived in central London, I did this walk all the time. I’m not only familiar with it, but can also vouch for how good it is year-round.

I particularly enjoy this walk in summer when the gardens are in bloom and the baby waterfowl are at their cutest, but it’s also beautiful when the leaves change and in the spring when the flowers come out. Get the details here .

5. London Walking Tours: Hampstead and the Heath

My fifth walk is in Hampstead , where I lived during my first five years in London.

It goes through the heart of the village and into Hampstead Heath , one of the biggest and wildest parks in the city.

This walk is a great one if you want a mix of London neighborhood and London nature, and it can take up an entire day if you stroll around the whole of the heath. Get the details here .

6. London Walking Tours: Hampstead

My sixth walk is also in Hampstead, and it’s the first of my more detailed self-guided London walking tours. It goes through the village’s streets, giving an in-depth overview of the area, its hidden lanes, and its beloved pubs.

This one is a great walk if you want to get to know a part of the capital that not many visitors get to (but that locals love). It’s one of the prettiest places in London, and feels like it’s a million miles from the city. Get the details here .

7. London Walking Tours: Kensington

My seventh walk is in Kensington , where I lived for years and spent a lot of time exploring. It goes through all my favorite streets and mews and reveals hidden spots where London’s wisteria is at its loveliest in spring.

It also shows off some of the best tucked-away pubs and under-the-radar side streets, and it’s an ideal walk if you want to explore a less obvious side to this part of the city. Get the details here .

8. London Walking Tours: Notting Hill

My eighth walk is in Notting Hill . This London neighborhood is known the world over, but a lot of people get stuck on Portobello Road and other familiar streets when they’re here. I used to, too.

But over the years I’ve discovered a lot of beautiful streets in Notting Hill that aren’t on the tourist trail, and I published my self-guided London walking tour of the area to share them with others and show a different side of the neighborhood.

It’s just the thing if you want to do more than scratch the surface in Notting Hill (and you should). Get the details here .

9. Literary London Walk

My ninth walk diverges from the others in that it covers a theme as opposed to just an area.

This self-guided London literary walk goes through several London neighborhoods to reveal some of the city’s best bookshops , literary landmarks, reading rooms, libraries, and other places book lovers will…well…love.

This one came about as a result of my love of both walking and books, and it’s just the thing for you if you’re the same. Get the details here .

10. London Walking Tours: South Kensington

My tenth walk goes back to the neighborhood theme with a self-guided walk in South Kensington . This one starts where the Kensington walk ends, so they can be combined for a longer exploration of the area.

It goes through South Kensington’s prettiest side streets and mews and shows the area’s pastel houses, cobblestone streets, and orange bricks at their best.

It’s perfect if you want to get a feel for one of London’s loveliest neighborhoods. Get the details here .

11. London Walking Tours: Chelsea

My eleventh walk stays close to my tenth in Chelsea . This area is one of London’s most picturesque, with beautiful houses, great shopping streets, and riverfront gardens galore.

This London walk goes through a lot of the most colorful back streets and secret gardens, as well as some of the main retail areas along the King’s Road .

It’s the perfect one if you like shopping and exploring at the same time. Get the details here .

12. London Walking Tours: Belgravia

My twelfth walk is next door in Belgravia . This is one of the most elegant London neighborhoods. It’s full of embassies, flowers, and hidden mews.

This walk goes through the area’s grand squares, along its flower-festooned streets, and through its back lanes. It’s great if you want a mix of styles, some retail therapy, and lots of luxury. Get the details here .

13. London Walking Tours: Spitalfields

My thirteenth walk is in east London’s Spitalfields . This is one of the city’s most vibrant areas. Historic houses sit beside contemporary street art, markets offer vintage treasures galore, and new pop-ups open all the time.

This London walk goes through the neighborhood’s colorful streets and markets. Sunday is the best day to be here (all the markets are open that day), so I recommend going to Spitalfields then. Get the details here .

14. London Walking Tours: Covent Garden

My fourteenth walk is in Covent Garden . This is one of the busiest and most colorful London neighborhoods. The famous piazza is full of life, and the shops and restaurants around it are some of the best in the city.

This walk will lead you to Covent Garden’s highlights and secret spaces. It’s great if you want to get a full picture of one of the city’s most popular areas. Get the details here .

15. London Walking Tours: Dulwich Village

My fifteenth London walk is in Dulwich village. Dulwich is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in south London. With a park, a picture gallery, and beautiful houses, the area is perfect for wandering.

This walk will take you through Dulwich village’s leafy streets and green spaces. It’s ideal if you want to explore more of south London and feel like you’re a million miles from the city at the same time. Get the details here .

16. London Walking Tours: Holland Park

My sixteenth walk is in Holland Park . This area is full of elegant houses and is home to one of London’s most colorful parks. The tulip gardens are gorgeous in spring, but the area is worth a visit year-round for its beauty.

This London walk will bring you from the Holland Park tube station to the houses, green spaces, and mews the area is renowned for. It’s perfect if you love a mix of pretty homes and peaceful parks. Get the details here .

17. London Walking Tours: Richmond

My seventeenth walk is out west in Richmond . This London neighborhood is worth a trip for its riverside charm and huge parks. It’s full of little lanes, historic pubs, and colorful boats to admire.

This walk will show you the best of the area, from the side streets to the Thames. At the end, it will give you two options for continuing your walk in the way that best suits your interests. Get the details here .

18. London Walking Tours: Mayfair

My eighteenth walk is in chi chi Mayfair . This area is dripping with luxury from its shops to its hotels. Mayfair has a lot of beauty to take in, not to mention pretty gardens and mews.

This walk will lead you through Mayfair, taking you from Piccadilly to South Molton Street and back. It’s a great one if you love the finer things in life. Get the details here .

19. Street Art Tour of London

My nineteenth walk mixes things up again. This one is thematic and focuses on street art in east London’s Spitalfields and Shoreditch .

These areas have some of the best street art in London, and they’re great places to walk around and take in the colors.

This walk will lead you from Old Spitalfields Market to Brick Lane and beyond. It’s just the thing if you like discovering the city’s edgier side. Get the details here .

20. London Walking Tours: Greenwich

My twentieth walk is in leafy Greenwich . Greenwich is known for its maritime history, royal residences, famous observatory, covered market, and great views .

This walk will guide you from the Thames to the Royal Observatory and through the markets and side streets. It’s ideal if you like a mix of culture, food, and history. Get the details here .

21. London Walking Tours: Westminster

My twenty-first walk is in Westminster . This area is home to a lot of big attractions, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.

This London walk will take you from Parliament Square to Smith Square and beyond. It covers highlights both big and small, and is a great choice if you like landmarks and hidden corners alike. Get the details here .

22. London Walking Tours: Soho

My twenty-second walk is in Soho . Right in the middle of London, Soho is home to some of the city’s best restaurants and theaters, and a lot of great secret courtyards and leafy squares.

This most exciting of London walks will take you through the most vibrant streets, squares, and alleys in the area. It’s perfect if you want to get to know Soho beyond the main roads. Get the details here .

23. London Walking Tours: City of London

My twenty-third walk is in the City of London . This area has some of the richest history and most important buildings in the UK capital.

This walk will transport you through past and present, big squares and little courtyards, historic halls and modern skyscrapers. It’s ideal if you like history and architecture. Get the details here .

24. London Walking Tours: Regent’s Canal

My twenty-fourth walk is along Regent’s Canal. Running from Maida Vale to King’s Cross , the canal goes by everything from the boats in Little Venice to the stalls of Camden Market . It even goes through the London Zoo in Regent’s Park .

This loveliest of London walks will take you along the waterway and show you parts of London most people miss out on.

It’s great if you like to get off the beaten path and away from the bustle of the city. And given it’s on the water, it’s perfect for a sunny day. Get the details here .

25. London Walking Tours: Clerkenwell

My twenty-fifth walk is in Clerkenwell and the surrounding area. This part of the UK capital is full of history and has some of the best restaurants and markets in London.

My self-guided London walking tour in Clerkenwell will take you down historic alleys, under stone archways, and through one of the oldest markets in the city.

The walk covers Clerkenwell, Smithfield, Hatton Garden, and other areas. It’s just the thing if you like history and food in equal measure. Get the details here .

26. London Walking Tours: Islington

My twenty-sixth walk is in Islington . This area has great shopping, canals, and colorful doors.

My self-guided London walk in Islington will take you through vibrant markets, pretty squares, and exciting shopping streets.

The walk is perfect if you like a mix of high streets and side streets with some retail therapy thrown in. Get the details here .

27. London Walking Tours: London Bridge

My twenty-seventh walk covers London Bridge and the area around it. From Borough to Bermondsey, More London to Maltby Street Market, there’s a lot to discover here.

My self-guided London walking tour in London Bridge will take you through a number of great markets and past some of the most famous landmarks on the Thames.

This London walk is ideal if you like history, food, and riverfront scenery in equal measure. Get the details here .

28. London Walking Tours: Hampstead Heath

My twenty-eighth walk is in Hampstead Heath. One of London’s biggest and wildest parks, it’s a great place to get outdoors and into nature.

My self-guided London walking tour in Hampstead Heath will take you to some of the best places in the park. From the bathing ponds to Parliament Hill, Kenwood House, and the Pergola Garden, it’ll show you the highlights.

This London walk is for you if you like getting into green spaces without leaving the city. Get the details here .

29. London Walking Tours: Shoreditch

My twenty-ninth walk is in Shoreditch. This east London neighborhood is one of the coolest parts of the city, and it has a hipster vibe.

This walk will take you past great street art murals, down historic side streets, and alongside popular shops and restaurants.

This most exciting of London walks is perfect if you like street art, London history, and hipster areas in equal measure. Get the details here .

30. London Walking Tours: Bloomsbury

My thirtieth walk is in Bloomsbury. This part of central London is known for its literary connections, leafy squares, and famous museums.

My self-guided London walking tour in Bloomsbury will take you through Russell Square, past the British Museum, and into secret gardens. Along the way you’ll go by independent bookshops and famous Bloomsbury cafes .

This London walk will appeal if you love literary history, bookshops, and cultural attractions in equal measure. Get the details here .

31. London Walking Tours: Regent’s Canal

My thirty-first walk is on Regent’s Canal, but along a different stretch than my other one. This walk goes from King’s Cross to Hackney . It can be combined with my canal walk from Maida Vale to King’s Cross for a longer route.

This self-guided Regent’s Canal walk will take you through Islington, Angel , Hoxton, Haggerston, and London Fields as you make your way into Hackney.

You’ll get a glimpse of waterfront bars and cafes as you go, and you can pick up a picnic lunch at Broadway Market at the end if you want to.

This London walk is for you if you love being by the water and exploring local areas of the city. Get the details here .

32. London Walking Tours: Thames Walk

My thirty-second walk is on the Thames Path. This is one of the most popular places to walk in London, and my route will take you to some of the best spots along the river.

This self-guided Thames walk will lead you from Chelsea to Battersea Park , Pimlico , Westminster, the South Bank, and Rotherhithe .

Along the way you’ll see London attractions like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament , the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and more.

This walking tour is for you if you love being by the river and seeing the city’s big landmarks. It’s one of the best walks along the Thames in London . Get the details here .

33. London Walking Tours: Royal Walk

My thirty-third walk is a royal-themed tour of the UK capital. It covers many of the major palaces in London and other sites associated with the monarchy.

The route of this self-guided London walking tour goes from Kensington Gardens to the Tower of London. Along the way it passes Buckingham Palace , Horse Guards Parade, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, and other royal landmarks.

This London walk is for you if you’re a fan of the monarchy and you want to see all things royal in London. Get the details on my royal walk blog post.

34. London Walking Tours: Marylebone

My thirty-fourth walk is in Marylebone . This upscale part of central London is known for its great shopping, famous high street, and fun markets.

My self-guided London walking tour in Marylebone will take you down Marylebone High Street , past the Wallace Collection, and into pretty gardens. Along the way you’ll go by beloved bookshops and the Sherlock Holmes Museum.

This London walk will appeal if you love Marylebone shopping , markets, and cultural attractions. Get the details here .

35. London Walking Tours: Knightsbridge

My thirty-fifth walk is in Knightsbridge . This luxurious neighborhood in central London is famous for department stores like Harrods and Harvey Nichols, but there’s a lot more to discover beyond shopping.

My self-guided London walking tour in Knightsbridge will take you down Sloane Street, past luxury goods shops, and into side streets and squares. Along the way you’ll go down Brompton Road and explore hidden mews.

This London walk is for you if you love the finer things in life and want to explore one of London’s most beautiful neighborhoods. Get the details here .

36. London Walking Tours: Primrose Hill

My thirty-sixth walk is in Primrose Hill . This pretty neighborhood in north London is beloved for its big park and colorful houses (some of which were used as filming locations for the Paddington movies).

My self-guided London walk in Primrose Hill will take you down Regent’s Park Road, along Regent’s Canal, and into the park. Along the way you’ll take in one of the best views of London and explore beautiful squares.

This route is for you if you like exploring local areas and want to discover one of London’s sweetest neighborhoods. Get the details here .

37. London Walking Tours: Highgate

My thirty-seventh walk is in Highgate . This elegant London neighborhood is known for its famous Victorian cemetery and beautiful houses.

My self-guided walking route in Highgate will take you into the area’s many green spaces and along its high streets and side streets. As you go you’ll get a glimpse of the heritage details that make this one of the most beautiful parts of north London.

This one is just the thing if you enjoy discovering less touristy places in London and want to see a great local neighborhood. It’s one of my favorite unusual walks in London . Get the details here .

38. London Walking Tours: Harry Potter

My thirty-eighth walk is another themed one. It covers the main Harry Potter sites in London, from places that featured in the novels to ones that were used as filming locations for the movies.

The route of this self-guided London walking tour goes from Westminster to Tower Bridge . Along the way it will lead you through Whitehall, Covent Garden, King’s Cross, the City of London, and the South Bank.

You’ll see everything from Leadenhall Market to Platform 9 3/4, the Millennium Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and St Pancras station as you go. It’s a great way to indulge your inner Potterhead.

This London walking route is for you if you’re a Harry Potter fan and you want to see all things associated with the books and films. Get the details on my Harry Potter walking tour blog post.

39. London Walking Tours: Christmas Lights

My thirty-ninth walk is also themed. It spans the city center to highlight the best and brightest Christmas lights in the UK capital.

From Oxford Street and Regent Street to Carnaby Street and Covent Garden, it will give you a good overview of the city’s festive installations.

This walk is for you if you want to see the top Christmas lights in London. Get the details and map on my blog post about a Christmas lights walk in London .

40. London Walking Tours: Little Venice

My fortieth walk is in Little Venice. This beautiful London neighborhood is known for its canals. The Grand Union Canal meets Regent’s Canal here, and there are lots of places to admire along the waterways.

My self-guided walking tour in Little Venice will take you into the area’s pretty streets and by its colorful boats. As you go you’ll get to see everything from parks to cafes and Paddington Basin.

This walk is perfect if you like exploring off-the-beaten-path parts of London and you want to discover a local neighborhood. Get the details and map on my blog post about a Little Venice walk in London .

Self-Guided Walking Tours in London

Beyond these official walks, I’ve also written blog posts about walking along Regent’s Canal and walking in Hampstead Garden Suburb . I’ve put together lists of seasonal walks for spring , summer , autumn , Christmas , and winter , too.

You can read about more lovely walks in London’s Hidden Walks as well. You can get it here . There are more ideas in my London walking books post, too.

And like I said earlier, I have more London walks in the pipeline and they’ll all end up here and on my London walking map once I’ve published them.

I hope you enjoy these self-guided London walking tours as much as I do, and that you get a chance to explore all the city’s wonderful nooks.

Hidden details are some of the best things about London, and these walks are a great way to discover them.

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18 Comments on Lady’s 40 Beautiful Self-Guided London Walking Tours

Lovely!! Thank’s for sharing

You’re welcome!

This is a great guide – thank you so much for sharing! I can imagine this being really useful for people who want to explore London on a budget and I’m sure students would make good use of these self-guided walking tours. Walking along the South Bank is a great experience, especially if you’re new to the city.

I’m going to London this summer for the first time in over 10 years. I’m not really interested in seeing the main tourist attractions that I’ve already seen. Much more interested in doing some of your walks! They look so fun and interesting. Thank you for sharing them and thank you for including the maps as well!

You’re welcome! I hope you enjoy them.

Just finished the Notting Hill walk, and sitting in a pub in Portobello Road as I am writing this. The walk was very nice. Thank you for sharing ut.

I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

Your site looks amazing. I am going to be in Notting Hill in a few weeks. Could I combine the Notting Hill walk with another?

Thanks! You could combine it with the Kensington or Holland Park walks pretty easily. Have fun!

I have just returned from a few days in London. I had been before, so had seen a lot of the typical tourist spots already on a previous visit. This time I really wanted to see some of the quaint neighborhoods and pretty houses and shops. I was so excited to do some of your walking tours! I managed to fit in 5 walks: Kensington, Notting Hill, Belgravia, Covent Garden and Hampstead….over 2.5 days! The walks were beautiful and I loved finding all of the hidden mews which your walks led me to…..all with the confidence that I wasn’t getting lost! Thank you for these wonderful tours!

You’re welcome! I’m so glad you got to do so many of them.

I am London born and bred, and so know the city well, even having been a bicycle courier in the city in my early 20s. However, I much enjoyed the Hampstead walk and very much feel I will enjoy the others as well. I often feel that London has changed beyond all recognition since the late 70s and early 80s when it was gritty, authentic, arguably still fundamentally Victorian; but I know that the districts outlined in the Lady’s walks are amongst the least altered.

I’m so glad to hear that!

Hi! I come from Indonesia and i love this blog so beautiful and very complete about travel places. Thank you for this information,i love Britain so much,i hope someday i can live in there.❤️

You’re welcome! I hope you can.

Absolute Gold stuff all this. Thank you so much !

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• Destinations
• Tours in London

Free Tour Essential London (Westminster)

Overview of the tour in London

The London City of Westminster Tour is a one-and-a-half-hour guided tour around the political capital of London. We begin at the Equestrian Statue of Charles I, then we walk along Whitehall, stopping by the Horseguards' Parade, Downing Street, the Ministry of Defence, and on to Parliament Square. We will then discuss some of the figures whose statues line the square and the building in front of which they stand, the majestic Palace of Westminster. From the Houses of Parliament, we will then walk towards St. James's Park where we will see the entrance to the Churchill War Rooms from where the British cabinet directed the British military during WWII. We will then walk meander our way through the park itself on our way towards our final destination, Buckingham Palace. We will, of course, endeavor to see Her Majesty, the Queen, as she goes about her business in her 'office', as she calls it, although we can't promise to see her in person. Nonetheless, this will be a really good tour. CHILDREN DO NOT NEED A RESERVATION

This activity includes:

• St James's Park
• Palace of Westminster
• Parliament Square Garden

Equestrian Statue of Charles I

• Buckingham Palace
• Horse Guards Parade
• Statue of Charles II

Meeting point

To get to the starting point of our tour, take the Underground/Train to Charring Cross Station. Exit the station, following the signs for Trafalgar Square. We wait in the equestrian statue of Charles I. It's the roundabout in front of Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square. Our guide will be waiting for you at the meeting point 10 minutes before the start of the tour with a PURPLE flag.

Things to note

This is a walking tour and whilst we do not walk fast, this tour is entirely by foot. Wheelchairs and baby prams/trollies are of course welcome and the route does not include steps.

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You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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21 Best London Walking Tours in 2024 (ranked!)

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Ready to tour the exciting places that London has to offer?

You’ve come to the right place, as we’re going to explore the best 21 walking tours in London – all led by expert guides who want to share the beauty of this part of England and help you skip the tourist traps.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.

The best walking tour from London is this Hidden London Gems walking tour .

It has about 170 amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

London is one of the most beautiful, picturesque, and incredible parts of England filled with friendly people, local pubs, iconic landmarks, lots of exciting things to do, and more.

If you want to see what your other options are, here are 20 more tours that are definitely worth your time.

So let’s get into the list of the best walking tours in London, so you can book it already!

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended, so you don’t miss out.

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best London walking tour is this Ultimate London Sightseeing walking tour .

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 Walking Tours

1. ultimate london sightseeing walking tour : best walking tour in london.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 120+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Guided tour
• Two historic areas: London & Westminster
• 30+ London landmarks and attractions
• Interactive tour with photo ops and trivia

It’s very time-consuming to navigate London all on your own, especially because you need to plan your itinerary such that you cover all the top attractions in the city.

Luckily, this action-packed walking tour that covers London and Westminster takes care of that for you.

This tour includes over 30 sights , including Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Tower of London.

Alongside that, your guide will keep you busy with photo ops, trivia , and questions so that you don’t get bored and tell you how the city came to be and even why the arrival of Romans nearly 2000 years ago changed everything.

As part of your guided walks London, you’ll also go to St. Paul’s Cathedral , where you can learn the history of this beautiful cathedral, significant events that have happened here, and the architect responsible for something so magnificent.

Other stops include the Mansion House , one of the most iconic houses in London, the Royal Exchange Building , and the Bank of England , which also houses a gold vault worth almost £200 billion!   

2. Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London : best guided London walks

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 170+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Changing of the guard ceremony
• Attractions like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, & Buckingham Palace
• Houses of Parliament

The Changing of the Guard ceremony is one of the most famous attractions of the city and attracts large crowds every time and this is one of the best walking tours in London.

It’s truly something you’d expect from London – a pomp with household cavalry and foot soldiers in bearskin hats accompanied by large bands marching towards Buckingham Palace.

As the guards go on with their historical ritual, your guide will explain all the regiments that serve the king before taking you on a sightseeing walk past numerous famous attractions, such as the Houses of Parliament , Big Ben, Clarence House, St. James’s Palace, and Westminster Abbey.

And as you go past the different attractions, your guide will feed you interesting information.

For instance, when you pass by Buckingham Palace, you’ll get a chance to take some pictures while learning about the famous palace, such as the number of rooms and the story of when a man broke into the Queen’s bedroom.

You’ll also see the Royal balcony and if the King is home.

3. Hidden London Walking Tour  

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 170+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Local professional guide
• Small groups on these walking tours of London
• Fleet Street, Temple Church, and St Bride’s Church
• Statue of Samuel Johnson

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore London, check out this tour – it’s a great way to see the forgotten, macabre, and mysterious past of this city .

And there are lots of interesting spots too: a long-lost underground station , a church with scars from the Second World War, a medieval crypt, and the Knights Templar’s punishment cell .

This walking tour is suitable for everyone , ranging from families and small groups to all those looking for a new kind of adventure.

Plus, it has a more relaxed pace , so you’ll have a pleasant time exploring the local streets and learning about their history.

Part of your tour involves walking along Fleet Street which is famous for its newspaper industry, visiting St Bride’s Church, which inspired the wedding cake, and seeing the statue of Samuel Johnson, who’s famous for inventing the modern dictionary.

4. Jack the Ripper Walking Tour in London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 1200+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Expert guides who’ll bring the story to life
• Original photos of the location like they were when the murders took place
• Police and press reports about the crime
• Free 194-page e-book link

If you love thrillers and crime, this Jack the Ripper walking tour is something you should definitely check out – one of the best walking tour London.

While you walk down the streets, you’ll get to hear spine-chilling stories of Jack the Ripper , one of the most notorious serial killers in London.

This tour will take you down not just eerie cobbled alleyways, but also secret spots that are completely inaccessible by bus or car.

Meanwhile, you’ll get to hear insights about the unsolved crimes from 1888, learn more about the suspects, and check out the various spots in Brick Lane and Spitalfields where heinous crimes took place.

In addition to visiting the places where the murders occurred, you’ll also get to see press and police reports from the crime and even old photos.

Plus, the guide has written a book on the serial killer, so you’ll get to learn interesting facts about him.

You’ll also get an informative e-book once the tour is over! 

5. Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour in London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 370+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Local guide on these walks of London
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Major landmarks
• Near public transportation

Done seeing all the top tourist attractions that London has to offer?

Try something different with this ghost-walking tour , where you can learn about sinister apparitions and spooky sightings .

Throughout your tour, you’ll follow an informative guide down atmospheric alleyways and dark streets while listening to tales of the hidden history of the city and spine-chilling stories about mayhem, murder, and crime.

Your guide will also indulge you in spooky stories about specters, ghosts, and ghouls that haunt the back alleys as the sun goes down. 

This tour will also take you through major landmarks so that you can snap some pictures for your Instagram.

Other stops on the route include trendy restaurants and skyscrapers before it ends at St Paul’s Cathedral.

6. Private Custom Walking Tour: Day Tour of London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 90+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4-8 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private tour
• Professional & qualified Blue Badge tourist guide
• Central London pickup and drop-off
• Concierge-style service both before and after the tour

If you’re only interested in a handful of landmarks and don’t want to listen to commentary that you find boring, this private custom walking tour is the best option for you.

With this tour, you have the option of setting your itinerary and exploring London how you like on a full- or half-day private tour.

The good thing about this tour is that it lets you see only those attractions that are on your list.

Plus, your guide can tell you some more unknown corners and hidden gems of the city that you can add to your itinerary if you want to check them out.

Everything on this tour is entirely up to you, from the meeting point to the start time.

You can even decide what the tour should focus on, whether that’s food, fashion, or architecture.

And since this is a private tour, you’ll have your guide’s complete attention.

The tour also includes hotel pickup and is ideal for small groups and families.    

7. Music Walking Tour of London’s Soho : London walking tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Local guide (musician)
• Small group
• Must-see musical landmarks
• Insider information about making music in the city

It’s no secret that London has a rich musical heritage , but it can be pretty tricky to find the best spots to get a chance to see the pop culture, but this is where this tour comes in.

As a part of this tour , you’ll get to see many important musical landmarks.

You’ll be guided by a local musician as you take this tour of Soho and visit some of the most iconic music monuments.

Your tour will start outside the Dominion Theatre and will take you through the famous street where the Rolling Stones recorded their very first album.

You’ll also get to see where famous artists like Bowie and Hendrix recorded their iconic albums and stop by young Mozart’s home.

Other stops on your tour include Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, which aims to bring Ronnie Scott to life through insider anecdotes, and the Seville Theatre.

8. London: Landmarks and Harry Potter Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 – 2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Complimentary Veluba shuttle
• ‘The Wizard Walk’ walking tour
• ‘Landmarks Walking Tour’
• Audio commentary in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, German, and Chinese

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll love this tour , which is one of the best London walk tour and combines key landmarks of the city and sights in London that are featured in Harry Potter.

You can even divide the tour into two: a wizard tour and a landmarks tour, and spread them over two days.

This way, you won’t need to rush through all the sights.

The key sights you’ll get to see on this tour include Soho, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament while learning about their history.

For instance, you’ll learn all about the history of the iconic clock tower and how the bell was damaged soon after it become operational.

You’ll also walk past many important sights, including Buckingham Palace , Parliament Square where you’ll see the statues of iconic political figures, and the UK Supreme Court .

You’ll also get access to an app that has some more self-guided tours. 

9. Historic London Pubs Private Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 20+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Pickup from select hotels
• 6 historic pubs

England’s pub culture is something worth experiencing, and if you love beer and history, this half-day historic pub tour is perfect for you.

It’ll take you to 6 historic pubs that go as back as the Great Fire of London in 1666 as you enjoy London tours by walking.

These pubs are located in areas like the East End, Clerkenwell, and Farringdon. 

At each venue, you’ll get the chance to learn about its history and enjoy a soft drink or a small beer.

The tour is also limited to 15 people, so you’ll have a nice, small-group experience.

Let’s talk a little more about some of the stops on this tour.

There’s the Viaduct Tavern , an old Gin Palace beside an old prison with prisoner cells in cellars for those awaiting execution, and the Castle pub that is somehow connected to the Royal Family (you’ll get to learn all about it once you take this tour).

There are other exciting stops too!

10. Haunted London Pub Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 25+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Local guide with a penchant for stories for this walking tours London
• Eerie locations
• Stops at pubs as per your request
• Spine-tingling tales

Are you a fan of horror?

Love visiting haunted sites?

If you answered yes to both questions, this haunted London pub walking tour should be right up your alley.

This 2-hour tour takes you through three haunted pubs while your fun and knowledgeable guide tells you chilling, spine-tingling, and frightening tales of debauchery, hauntings, and notorious murderers.

For instance, you’ll get to visit the eerie Sweeney Todd barber shop and the haunting interior of a Victorian prison.

Since this tour starts once the sun goes down, you’ll really need something to steel your nerves.

This is why along the way, you’ll get the chance to drink up some liquid courage (maybe a pint or two) so that you make it to the end of the tour.

Once you finish this tour, you’ll start seeing London in a spookier light.    

11. London Bridge Ghost Walking Tour 

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 20+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• An entertaining guide
• Sinister tales about the area
• 16th-century pub
• Crossroads for wandering spirits

Here’s another ghost tour for all those who love horror, where you’ll get to explore medieval London .

On this 1.5-hour walking tour of the London Bridge , you’ll learn why the bridge and the areas surrounding it are considered some of the most haunted areas of the city.

Meanwhile, your fun guide will narrate sinister stories of lawless thugs and body snatchers.

You’ll also hear tales of the inmates of the oldest prison in England and the restless souls of the ladies of the night.

Finally, your tour will end at a 16th-century pub famous for being haunted by a ‘ghost dog.’

There are other interesting things lined up for you on this tour.

For instance, you’ll learn about the different bridges in the Thames (one area is still famous as the crossroads for wandering spirits), bone-chilling deeds that took place in the oldest operating theatre in the world, and the Bishop of Winchester who really left a mark on the neighborhood. 

12. Private Sherlock Holmes Walking Tour in London  

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 20+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Sherlock Holmes museum
• Filming locations for the infamous TV series

Fans of the world’s best detective and his loyal sidekick must take this Private Sherlock Holmes Walking Tour in London.

As part of this tour, you’ll be taken to the mystery-solving and crime-busting world of Dr. Watson and Sherlock Holmes.

You’ll get the chance to go to the detective’s home at 221B Baker Street and will be transported to the fictional world as soon as you step into the Sherlock Holmes Museum.

You’ll also stop at the Sherlock Holmes Store , where you can buy some Sherlock souvenirs. 

After that, you’ll follow the making of the hit TV show and visit all the iconic filming locations in Whitehall and Russell Square.

Spoiler alert: you’ll also see where Sherlock faked his death and hear entertaining stories about Martin Freeman and Benedict Cumberbatch, who make a great duo!

Throughout the tour, your guide will keep you entertained with Sherlock Holmes trivia, anecdotes, and facts.

You’ll be traveling on a comfortable mini-coach on this tour and will get personalized attention from the guide.   

13. London Police and Crime Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 19+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Kit and equipment
• Opportunity to examine historic items of police regalia
• Former police officer as your guide
• Top sights including Trafalgar Square and Scotland Yard

Explore a completely new side of London with this policing and crime-themed tour guided by a former officer with both detective and uniform experience.

Choose whether you want to start the tour in the morning or afternoon and meet up with your guide in Covent Garden to get started.

You’ll visit lots of landmarks on this tour, including New Scotland Yard (where policing was invested) and Trafalgar Square.

You’ll also stop by a Sherlock Holmes-themed pub at Northumberland Avenue.

Other stops include Bow Street (where the Magistrates Court is located), Covent Garden (famous for its gin-soaked history) , Charing Cross (where you’ll hear tales of mayhem and murder), and St. James’s Park (where there’s a National Police Memorial for fallen officers).

At the end of the tour, you’ll know the city’s lesser-known history of crime and insider stories about police work. 

14. Historic Pub Walking Tour of London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 17+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Historic guided tour on one of the best walking tours in London
• Knowledgeable local tour guide
• Entry into 4 historic pubs
• Customizable itinerary

Here’s another tour to explore some of the most historic pubs that the city has to offer while you enjoy a local beverage and mingle with fellow pub enthusiasts and travelers.

This London pub tour will take you to four centuries-old ale houses and pubs that are closely related to the culture and history of the city.

You’ll go to pubs that were frequented by not just the Queens and Kings of England, but also influential and iconic figures, including Dick Turpin, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle , Nelle Gwynne, Oliver Cromwell, and Charles Dickens .

A local tour guide will guide you throughout the tour as you go to important pubs, walk through secret streets , and learn about the city’s history and its important landmarks such as Covent Garden, St James’s Palace, Shaftesbury Avenue, Pall Mall, and Trafalgar Square. 

All in all, this tour is a great way to explore London and its historic pubs.

15. Historic London City Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 16+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Guided tour of the city
• Personalized experience
• Top landmarks that London has to offer
• Additional bonus stops

History buffs will absolutely love this historic London city walking tour .

This small group tour starts in the afternoon and will take you through the oldest neighborhood of the city.

You’ll meet your guide at St. Paul’s Cathedral , and after taking some pictures and learning about its history, you’ll set off on your tour.

The landmarks you’ll get to see on this tour include the Bank of England and its iconic Gold Vault , London Bridge, the Tower of London, Borough Market , and the Monument (for the Great Fire).

You’ll pass by the Mansion House, the Royal Exchange Building, and the Shard, the tallest building in the UK.

Other stops include City Hall and Leadenhall Market, a 700-year-old market that’s also used in the Harry Potter movies . 

The tour also includes a very informative history lesson.

You’ll learn about the significant events that have occurred throughout history, such as the Great Fire of London .

16. London Witches and History Walking Tour : London city walking tours

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 14+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 15 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Costumed in-character guide
• Fascinating and chilling history of the city
• Famous filming locations from Harry Potter

London’s history is laced with witches, and what better way to learn more about them than this London witches and history walking tour ?

This tour will familiarize you with the wicked history of the city and take you to famous sights as well as hidden gems.

To further add to the authenticity of the tour, you’ll be guided by a costumed witch who will keep you entertained with historical facts, unexpected tales of real-life witches , and the injustices they were subjected to.

To kick off the tour, you’ll meet your witch guide and your coven at a quiet space right behind Southwark Cathedral , learn the theme of the adventure, and listen to the first witch-related tale of the night.

As you proceed with the tour, you’ll learn the truth about different witches, including John Peterson or the Witch of Wapping, Jinny Bingham or Mother Damnable, and the Last Witch.

Along the way, you might even get to visit some Harry Potter filming locations.

17. London Walks – 12 Self-Guided Audio Walking Tours

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 10+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 – 6 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Access to a self-guided audio tour
• Offline mode for when you don’t have Wi-Fi
• Instagram hotspots for the perfect pictures
• Location-aware so that you don’t get lost

If you’d rather explore the city on your own without having to follow behind a tour guide in a group, then what you’re looking for is a self-guided tour and there’s nothing better than this London Walks tour , a series of 12 immersive, self-guided audio walking tours.

While you walk around the different sites and explore the city your way, you’ll be accompanied by the knowledge of hipsters, storytellers, and local historians.

For instance, with the Westminster or Royal London tours, you’ll get to visit iconic landmarks like Big Ben, explore sites like Kew Gardens (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), discover lively neighborhoods like Shoreditch, Notting Hill, and Brixton, and stop at the hottest Instagram spots like Soho.

Plus, you can download the tours in advance and listen to them without Wi-Fi.

This way, you don’t need to spend money on roaming.

18. The Beatles London Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 10+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional guide on these walking tours around London
• Lots of fun Beatles stories
• Locations central to the history of the band
• Legendary Beatles’ locations

Fans of The Beatles who wish to walk in their idols’ footsteps should take this Beatles London Walking tour .

This Beatles-themed tour takes you through the different locations in London that are central to the mythology and history of the band.

As part of the tour, you’ll walk across Abbey Road , see Abbey Road studios, travel to where ‘A Hard Day’s Night’ was filmed , and where different album covers were shot.

You’ll also get to visit Sir Paul McCartney’s home and other locations pivotal to the band, such as the place where ‘Yesterday’ was composed, where Yoko and John met, and the place where the term Beatlemania came into being.

Other stops include Blue Plaque: John Lennon, the house where Yoko and John lived , Marylebone, the registry office where two of the four Beatles married thrice, and Kingly Street where Paul met Linda for the very first time.  

The tour also includes lots of trivia that might even surprise hardcore Beatles fans!  

19. Magical Christmas Walking Tour in London : best London walking tours

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 7+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Wi-Fi onboard
• London’s winter transformation
• Festive sights
• Lots and lots of iconic Christmas lights

Christmas is definitely the most wonderful time of the year, and there’s no better way to enjoy the festive season than with this Magical Christmas Walking Tour.

This Iheartlondontour is filled with lots of fun, and there’s a reason it came into being.

Lots of people that come to London during the cold winter months don’t fully enjoy the Christmas joy that the city has to offer.

This tour is a great way to showcase how spirited and totally unforgettable Christmas in this city can be.   

As you go about this tour, you’ll notice how London completely transforms in the winter and see new things, unexplored paths, and wonderful sights without having to spend an exuberant amount.

Your tour will start from Charing Cross Station.

From here, you’ll move on to see more amazing sights, including the London Palladium (a high-class shopping district), Carnaby Soho lights , Piccadilly Circus, and the iconic Regent Street Christmas Lights .

20. Shakespeare Walking Tour in London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 7+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 15 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Globe Theatre in-house tour for this walk tour London
• Interesting stories of Shakespeare
• Lively South Bank

Take this walking tour of central London and retrace the footsteps of the famous William Shakespeare .

You’ll get to visit the South Bank (the “Las Vegas” of London where activities like theatre and bull-baiting legally took place) and get an in-house tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

You’ll also get to see where the original theatre, as well as its competitor, Rose Theatre, is located.

Other attractions on this tour include the Anchor Pub , the Golden Hinde (the life-size model of the original Golden Hinde that was used by Sir Francis Drake to sail around the globe in 1577), the Winchester Palace (see the ruins here), and the Shakespeare-stained glass window present at Southwark Cathedral.

You’ll also stop by the Harvard University chapel and the famous Borough Market that dates back to Elizabethan times.

And while you marvel at all these sites, your tour guide will keep you entertained with stories about Shakespeare.

21. London River Cruise & Westminster Walking Tour 

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 5+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Thames cruise ticket
• Local fun guide
• Top 20 sights of Westminster
• Small group tour for a personalized experience

This half-day tour combines a walking tour of the city with a sightseeing cruise of the Thames River and takes you through the most famous landmarks of the city.

While you walk down the streets and past attractions like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and Buckingham Palace, your guide will keep you entertained with live commentary .

In total, the walking tour covers 20 sights.

So in addition to the attractions above, other stops include the Changing of the Guard, St James Palace, Queen Victoria Fountain Green Park, Admiralty Arch, Whitehall, and Downing Street.

Once the walking tour is completed, you’ll be dropped off at the Thames River cruise, which lets you explore London from a different perspective.

The cruise starts from the Westminster Pier and goes to the Tower Bridge Pier.  

And since this is a small tour , limited to just 15 participants, you’ll get more personalized attention from your tour guide.

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

• 11 Best Tours of the Cotswolds from London in 2023
• 11 Best Tours of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh in 2023
• 5 Best London Open Top Bus Tours
• 9 Best Scottish Outlander Tours
• 9 Best Ghost Tours in Oxford
• 5 Best Bath Ghost Tours
• 9 Best Bus Tours in Edinburgh
• 19 Most Unique London Tours
• 9 Best Day Trips to Oxford from London
• 7 Best Stonehenge Day Trips from London
• 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
• 11 Best Oxford Walking Tours
• 11 Best London Rock ‘n’ Roll Tours
• 11 Best Beatles Tours in London
• 11 Best London Museum Tours
• 3 Best Morse Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best Walking Tours in Bath
• 13 Best Harry Potter Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
• 9 Best London Literary Tours
• 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
• 13 Best Evening & Night Tours of Edinburgh
• 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
• 11 Best London Bus Tours for Families
• 17 Best Harry Potter Tours in London
• 17 Best London Foodie Tours
• 13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh
• 11 Best Edinburgh Walking Tours
• 11 Best Private Tours in London
• 11 Best Ghost Tours in London
• 11 Fun Tours of Royal London
• 13 Isle of Skye Tours for a Magical Time
• 13 Mysterious Tours of Loch Ness
• 7 Best James Bond Tours in London
• 7 Best Paris Tours from London
• 7 Best Stratford-upon Avon Tours from London
• 7 Best Tours of Bath from London
• 7 Best Black Cab Tours from London
• 11 Best Downton Abbey Tours in the UK
• 5 Best Graffiti Tours in London
• 9 Best London East End Tours

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

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

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

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

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

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

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

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

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

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

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

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

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

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

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

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

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Essential travel guide to london [updated].

London is one of our favorite cities to explore, not only because it’s a major cosmopolitan city, or because of the countless landmarks, museum, and restaurants to explore. London is the perfect vacation destination for everyone – romantics , food lover , history lover, or adventure junkie.

If you’re planning a trip to London and would like to find the best things to do, places to eat and drink in the city, this essential travel guide to London covers it all.

Millions of visitors flock to London every year in their quest to see the various attractions that the city has to offer. The City is blessed with abundance of museums, palaces, magnificent landmarks, and wide variety of cultural sites including the parliament buildings, Buckingham palace and the Camden Town Market.

London is very spread out and there are multiple neighborhoods that offer something different and unique. You can see all the major sights along the Thames in a day or two , then spend many more days exploring neighborhoods like Notting Hill, Angel, Shoreditch, Soho and Camden.

Planning your trip to London?

• Book a  transfer from the airport  to the city center with  Welcome Pickups .
• Rent a car  from London airport through  Discover Cars .

Where to Stay in London See all hotel options

• Marriott County Hall ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor .
• Clermont London Charing Cross ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor .

Best Tours and Experiences in London

• Best of London, Including Tower of London, Changing of the Guard + Cream Tea or London Eye – Best of London’s landmarks on a comprehensive city tour.
• Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London – Experience a guided day trip from London to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath, where you can explore historic landmarks.

Looking for more information about London to make your planning easier? Check out these resources:

• Visit London’s top sights on a one-day walking tour
• Find a unique dining experience , top international restaurants and the best cocktails and rooftop bars in London
• See what to do, where to stay, and where to eat in London in this Essential travel guide to London
• Paris is only a short train ride away. Check out these fun foodie things to do in Paris .

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do & See in London

The most famous attractions are Big Ben, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and the historically rich Westminster Abbey.

If it’s your first time in London, you’ll no doubt be wanting to see the sights. We’ve got a full walking-tour guide to the top sights of London that you can do in one day. London is also full of iconic buildings to admire.

For us, foodie activities always take up at least a portion of our itinerary. Find some of London’s best foodie activities . One thing you can’t miss is visiting the various food markets , of which there are plenty, including my favorite, Borough Market .

Once you’ve seen Big Ben and Westminster, you might want to head further out of town to see Windsor Castle and the charming little town of Windsor . It doesn’t take long to get there on the train and is a perfect day trip from London. You can also visit Stonehenge on a day trip from London.

One-Day in London

If you only have one or two short days to see London, we recommend going on a walking tour around the major sights to start with.

After you’ve traversed a large part of the tourist attractions, spend some time discovering London’s best food markets , like Borough Market, where there are also dozens of great restaurants like Padella and Tapas Brindisi, plus wine bars like Bedales.

If there’s still time in your itinerary, make sure you do some good people watching at one of the major parks. We love Hyde Park and St. James Park for this.

Tours You Must Take in London

Honestly, London has so many tourist activities that it’s hard to fit it all in to even the longest vacation itinerary. Look over the tours below and choose the ones that you want to see the most.

For some of the best tours in London, we recommend booking tickets on Viator . They make it super simple to book everything you want to see in one place!

• Classic London Landmarks Bicycle Tour
• Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour and read our full review of the tour.
• Soho Food & Cocktail Tour (through Eating Europe )
• East End Food Tour (through Eating Europe )
• London Eye Fast-Track Ticket
• Easy Access Tower of London & Crown Jewels with Tower Bridge Tour
• London Pass Including Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Entry to Over 60 Attractions
• Small-Group Tour: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London
• Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London

More Tours to Book:

Top sights in london, the british museum.

Founded in the year 1753, the British Museum had a collection of over 71,000 unique items that had all been contributed by Sir Hans Sloane. Spend a day wandering through the eternal, labyrinthine corridors, exploring and discovering some of the greatest works of mankind’s cultural accomplishments and some take in some of the greatest relics of the Egyptian and Greek empires. Entry is free.

The London Eye

TThis gigantic wheel stands almost 135 meters over the entire city of London and is presently considered to be one of the tallest observation wheels in the world. From here you can view all of London with an entirely new perspective. Visiting the London Eye is an enchanting and inspiring experience.

Saint Paul’s Cathedral

Saint Paul’s Cathedral is famous for hosting royal birthdays, weddings, celebrations and even funerals of some of the greatest leaders in Britain. The Cathedral attracts millions and millions of tourists every year and is a historical accomplishment of the reconstruction that took place after the great London fire of 1666.

The National Gallery

Situated in the center of Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is home to some of the finest works of art in the world. Some of these pieces date back to the 13th century. Construction of the gallery commenced in the year 1832 and ever since it has collected many great pieces of art, which include works by Monet, Van Gogh, Da Vinci, Renoir and many more.

Tate Modern

One of London’s most contemporary galleries, the Tate Modern consists of great collections and diverse exhibitions of modern art. Appealing to both, children as well as adults, connoisseurs as well as novices, the Tate Modern houses grand collections of artists like Matisse, Andy Warhol and Bacon.

The Tower of London

Constructed with white stone that was imported from France , the Tower of London or the ‘Bloody Tower’ has been known to imprison, protect and even execute the wrongdoers in the past.

The Natural History Museum

An enigmatic gothic building that is home to some of the largest collections of dinosaurs in the world, the Natural History Museum consists of exhibitions that dominate the huge halls and tower.

Westminster Abbey

It is a medieval work of monumental significance and the burial ground for some of the most famous kings, statesmen, musicians, scientists and poets since the 11th century. The Westminster Abbey offers some of the most intriguing literary works and artistic talent in the way of paintings, murals and tombs.

Where to Eat & Drink in London

London is overflowing with exciting places to drink and eat. We won’t pretend to stay on top of the ever evolving restaurant and bar scene in London, but we do have some great recommendations for visitors to this vibrant city.

Frog by Adam Handling is my absolute favorite restaurant in London. It’s fine dining, but in a casual atmosphere. The food is incredibly good. Every bite is surprising and delicious.

The brisket buns and pork ribs at Smokestak in Shoreditch are insanely good. The sticky toffee pudding is the best here too. Life changing, really.

Sunday roast is a serious business in London. You need to book well ahead – like 4 weeks ahead – to get a table at one of the most popular spots. Blacklock (multiple locations) is an absolute must. You can order the All In with 2 people or more, but it’s really impressive with 4+ people.

Cocktails are a specialty in London. Everyone is addicted to gin in this city. There are tons of cocktail bars that make super fancy craft cocktails.

At Cocktail Trading Company , the cocktails are super creative in a fun and carefree way. The menu changes frequently and so does the barware. It’s located in trendy Shoreditch, near the historic Brick Lane where there’s a fun Sunday market along the whole street.

Mr. Fogg’s Tavern Gin Parlour in Covent Garden is my favorite gin bar. It’s incredibly unique in both atmosphere and cocktails. There are a few locations. Also check out the London Gin Club for unique gins and cocktails.

How to Get Around in London

The easiest way to get around, if you’re hopping between tourist sights is on foot. Walking will get you to all the main sights along the Thames and with the least amount of hassle.

If you can’t walk between the sights you want to see, then the Tube (Underground) or buses are the way to go. To make your travel in the city easy and convenient, get an Oyster card to use on public transportation. You can’t use cash to pay for buses – you will need an Oyster card. You can also use a contactless credit or debit card directly at the terminal on the bus and the Tube. Your card needs to have the contactless symbol on it to use it. Regular credit cards are not accepted.

With an Oyster card you can travel to any part of London without the fear of being stranded anywhere. You can top-up your Oyster card at almost any newsagent or convenience store in London, or in a Tube station.

Where to Stay in London

There are many different parts of London, and each has a different feel to it. The best location for tourists is near Covent Garden, because it’s so convenient to the typical tourist attractions of the city.

Soho is also a great location if you want to be in the heart of the action, near tons of great restaurants and bars. Here are our recommended places to stay in London:

• Marriott County Hall: Great value for the price. Nice affordable luxury hotel in a great location »  Read reviews on Trip Advisor or check prices on Expedia
• Clermont London Charing Cross: If you’re planning your time seeing the main tourist sights in London, this is the perfect location »  Read reviews on Trip Advisor or check prices on Expedia
• The Resident Covent Garden: Covent Garden is one of the most fun neighborhoods in London for visitors. This hotel is prime location, and really nice » Read reviews on Trip Advisor or check prices on Expedia

Essential Travel Guide to London

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

13 thoughts on “ Essential Travel Guide to London [Updated] ”

Love the way you’ve laid this out, much easier to read than an article! We’re headed there in January, reckon the chocolate ecstasy and gin tours need to be on the cards!

Glad you like it, Heather. We have a bunch more under Destinations! Enjoy your trip to London!

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I would like your advice for my sister and me. We are planning a trip to London and The Netherlands from Atlanta next May, our first time. Thinking we would prefer heading on to The Netherlands for the first week then back to London for last week. Wondering about the first night. Stay in London then take Eurostar next morning to Rotterdam (we think we’d like staying in Delft)? Try to manage customs and getting Eurostar soon after we land? Just not sure the best way to plan our first night. Much appreciate your advice.

Hi Peggy. I sent you an email to answer your question, but for others wondering here, it’s definitely possible to go from Heathrow to Eurostar in about 2.5 hours. It’s a straight shot on the Piccadilly line.

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Amazing article, your blog looks awesome. Thank you for sharing the best information about london with us and other travelers. By the way your pictures are very nice

Fantastic guide! Thanks for the updated tips. Currently staying at Presidential Serviced Apartments London for my London adventure – the central location makes exploring the city a breeze. Your insights are truly valuable!

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MLB London Series 2024: Order your official commemorative shirts for Phillies vs. Mets now

Fanatics unveiled new mlb london series 2024 t-shirts for the phillies vs. mets game at london stadium on june 8-9..

The Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets have played 1,072 times in the 62-year history of their rivalry, but for the first time, the two teams will meet outside of Philadelphia or Queens. The 2024 MLB London Series will feature two games between the Phillies and Mets on June 8 and June 9 at London Stadium. Officially licensed MLB gear celebrating the 2024 MLB London Series is already available and Fanatics is the place to go to find everything you need to commemorate the occasion .

This will be the third time since 2019 that Major League Baseball has held regular-season games in London, with Yankees vs. Red Sox in 2019 and Cubs vs. Cardinals in 2023 drawing over 54,000 fans for each game. Now, superstars like Pete Alonso, Bryce Harper, Francisco Lindor and Trea Turner will descend on London Stadium looking to put on another show for baseball fans in England.

Mets vs. Phillies is a rivalry that dates back to 1962 and in the 62 years since, these two teams have met 1,072 times during the regular season. Philadelphia holds a slight edge in the all-time series, going 551-520-1 against the Mets. The two teams met for a four-game series in the middle of May and the Phillies won three of four games in the series with Bryce Harper going 5-for-14 with a home run, a double, three RBI and four runs scored in those four games.

Philadelphia is currently first in the NL East and has the best record in baseball (40-18), opening up a six-game lead over the Braves in the NL East. Meanwhile, the Mets are currently fourth in the NL East at 24-33 and have already fallen 16 games off the pace. However, you can throw the records out when these two teams meet and the setting of London Stadium should only add to the intensity of one of baseball's best rivalries. You can get your MLB London Series 2024 gear now at Fanatics . 

New York Mets vs. Philadelphia Phillies Fanatics 2024 MLB World Tour London Series Match Up Local T-Shirt - Heather Gray

The 2024 MLB London Series will feature the Philadelphia Phillies vs. New York Mets in a two-game series at London Stadium on June 8-9 and you can celebrate the occasion with this commemorative T-shirt.  This T-shirt is available at Fanatics for $40 .

Why we like the New York Mets vs. Philadelphia Phillies Fanatics 2024 MLB World Tour London Series Match Up Local T-Shirt:

• Officially-licensed graphics highlight the 2024 MLB London Series.
• This 100% cotton, machine washable (tumble dry low) shirt is available in sizes S-2XL and 4XL.

Philadelphia Phillies Nike 2024 MLB World Tour London Series T-Shirt - Red

The Phillies have the best record in baseball and they'll head into the 2024 MLB London Series looking to further their strangehold over the NL East.  This official Phillies MLB London Series T-shirt is available at Fanatics for $39.99 .

Why we like the Philadelphia Phillies Nike 2024 MLB World Tour London Series T-Shirt:

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The New York Mets are one of baseball's biggest draws with superstars like Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor and J.D. Martinez.  This official Mets MLB London Series T-shirt is available at Fanatics for $39.99 .

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• This officially licensed Mets MLB London Series T-shirt from Nike is 100% cotton.
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Taylor Swift Walking Tours Are Coming to NYC—And They're Hiring for Tour Guides

A new swiftie-led walking tour will give travelers access to taylor's version of new york and london..

Even the casual Taylor Swift fan is aware of her deep and enduring love affair with New York City. Her music makes endless references to London and NYC , among her many location-specific song lyrics . Now, there’s a new immersive walking tour from On Location Tours and GetYourGuide that promises to get Swifties intimately connected to the cities that inspired so much of the singer's music.

But the tours haven't been created yet—because GetYourGuide and On Location Tours are looking for the ultimate Swifties to help create and lead them. For the not-so-casual fan, this is a chance to create the ultimate Swiftie travel experience in New York City and London.

"Taylor Swift famously wrote a song called 'Welcome to New York,' along with dozens of other songs that mention New York and London by name; her love for both cities has really whet tourists’ appetites for Taylor Swift-inspired tours of both," said Madison Pietrowski, head of brand US at GetYourGuide. "They want to see these places through Taylor’s very romantic eyes. Who better to deliver the ultimate Taylor tour to her fans than an ultimate Swiftie, someone who can ensure that fans feel welcomed to New York—and London—as if Taylor herself has been waiting for them, to take them along on a highly personalized tour of her favorite spots."

This Ultimate Swiftie Tour Guide job will include compensation, training with professional tour guides in New York or London, and free tickets for friends and family for the tours you lead. In order to apply for the job, you’ve got to go through a couple rounds of interviews to prove your Swift knowledge. The first round requires you to post a video on Instagram or TikTok to show why you should be the Ultimate Swiftie Tour Guide and then tag @GetYourGuide and #UltimateSwiftieGuide.

For the rest of the Swifties more interested in taking the tour rather than leading it, keep your eye out for updates from GetYourGuide and On Locations Tour, so that you can book the experience of the city the next time you visit New York or London.

In the meantime, you can try to chase down Swift on her Eras tour throughout Europe. There are still some relatively cheap tour dates  you can fly to for her summer concerts.

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