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The 15 best walking tours in London

Those boots were made for walking, so use them to explore London’s best sights

London’s one of the most walkable capital cities in the world. Indeed, in many ways, London is the anti-L.A.: here people think you’re mad if you do drive a car around town. Besides, nothing quite lets you get to know a city like a good walk around – after all, London existed long before there were any forms of public or private transport more sophisticated than a horse. Plus, after trekking across half the city, you have the perfect excuse to sit down with a pint (or two). 

Sure, bus and boat tours are good, but there’s nothing quite like a London walking tour. From basic sightseeing treks to specialised theme tours, whether you’ve got a day, an afternoon or just an hour, there’s some sort of tour out there for you. Buckle up, folks: here’s our pick of the best walking tours in London.

Need more sightseeing inspiration? Check out our list of 101 things to do in London .

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

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London walking tours

1.  Food Walking tour: West to East

If you’ve got half a day to space and a burning curiosity to find out what exactly constitutes British cuisine (and then to eat it) this epic trek should be firmly up your street. Tuck into a six-hour walking tour that will take you from Buckingham Palace (where you'll witness the Changing of the Guard) past the Houses of Parliament and onto the Tower of London, where you'll surely be ready for the delicious British delights that await. Try fish and chips, scotch eggs, pie and mash and a so-called famous doughnut (not sure about that last one tbh), before venturing over the bridge to peruse the sights and smells of delicious Borough Market.

2.  Kensington Palace Gardens tour with Royal High Tea

If you're after an excuse to wear something other than wellies, visit the gorgeous Kensington Gardens on a guided tour before sitting down and nibbling scones at Royal High Tea. The two-hour tour is soaked in royal history and all the best bits of being British (tea and cake, mostly). Although entry to the buildings isn't included, you'll be walked and talked through the gardens, marvelling at the water features and Sunken Garden, with a visit to Princess Diana's statue and ending with an indulgent high tea in the surroundings of the Kensington Palace Pavilion. How marvy!

3.  Three-hour secret British food tour

Three hours of food and snacks? Yes, please! This three-hour guided tour includes eight delicious stops in the London Bridge area, giving you an insight into the history of British food culture (which is very cultured, might we add). Starting in the historic Borough Market, you'll eat your way through classics and end the tour with quintessentially British desserts and tea. Plus, on your travels, your tour guide will enlighten you on the history of each area and there'll be a secret surprise dish, too. Our tip: wear stretchy bottoms.

4.  Harry Potter walking tour

Anyone who’s seen or read the adventures of the Boy Who Lived (and if you haven’t, have you been living under a rock?) will know that London is a recurring character in both the films and books. Follow in Harry’s footsteps with this 150-minute jaunt, which goes from the ‘real’ Diagon Alley through to The Leaky Cauldron, Platform 9¾ and other fantastical locales. Being Muggles, there’s obviously a bit of a limit to what we can actually see – but that won’t stop you from soaking up the magical atmosphere.

5.  Westminster and the Churchill War Rooms

Few Brits have a bigger reputation than wartime PM and noted cigar smoker Sir Winston. So what better way to get a feel for the capital than via Churchill’s London? In two hours your Blue Badge guide will take you to see an array of major Westminster landmarks associated with the man, such as Big Ben and Downing Street, alongside the poignant Cenotaph war memorial. Walkers will then be led to Churchill's wartime bunker, where you can see several items that once belonged to big man, discover top-secret conversations that went on down there and soak up the drama of the room in which the fate of the world was shaped so long ago.

6.  Changing of the Guard guided walking tour

No experience is more quintessentially London than the Changing of the Guard: that is to say when one group of soldiers clock off and the next clocks on – with much ceremony – at Buckingham Palace. Your knowledgeable guide will also take you to see palaces, royal parks, royal residences and you'll even have an opportunity to march alongside the guards. The walk is aimed at all ages, with interesting insights for adults and plenty of fun for kids.

7.  Gangster walking tour of London’s East End led by actor Vas Blackwood

East London is definitely no Longer the gangland of yore: if the Krays twins were around today they’d probably own some sort of ironic theme cafe. But there’s a rich and thrilling not-so-distant-past there, and this tour is particularly special Led by ‘Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels’ actor Vas Blackwood (aka Rory Breaker), who'll share his wealth of knowledge about the villains – both fictional and real – of London’s murky underworld. Over the two-hour tour you'll hear tales of the notorious Kray twins around Whitechapel and see iconic ‘Lock, Stock…’ locations from the much-loved Brit gangster flick.

8.  Historic pub walking tour

You could probably spend years working through London’s endless array of pubs and not really scratch the surface. But this three-hour afternoon tour is a decent start. Discover storied alehouses and literary drinking dens on a journey that stretches from ancient Southwark to the shiny West End, on a walk guaranteed to visit at least four of the capital’s finest historic boozers. Hear the history of the buildings, learn the differences between Elizabethan coaching inns and Victorian gin palaces, and visit the watering holes frequented by Charles Dickens – and have yourself a pint, if that's how you’re inclined.

9.  Private Sherlock Holmes walking tour

Explore the world of Arthur Conan Doyle’s Great Detective – plus his beloved sidekick Dr Watson, of course – on this private three-hour walking tour of London. Visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum (entry ticket not included), located at Holmes’ home of 221b Baker Street with your personal guide. Explore central London sites made famous in the filming of the Benedict Cumberbatch-starring adaptation ‘Sherlock’, such as Russell Square or New Scotland Yard. Along the way, lap up behind-the-scenes stories from the set.

10.  Blood and Tears walk

If you’re in the mood for something a little gristlier, then why not set a couple of hours aside one night to exploore the capital's dark side? You’ll be taken on a journey through the darker bits of the city’s past that includes visiting execution sites, learning about grave robbers and meet London's most notorious murderers as you wander from Barbican to Holborn. Unsurprisingly, a few details in this one are a little ghastly, so it's very much open to ages 12+ only (plus the 7pm start is past the little ’uns bedtimes).

11.  Greenwich highlights half-day walking tour

Perhaps no London borough is quite so distinctive singular as maritime Greenwich, and this fun and educational half-day tour comes highly recommended. All the major venues are on the walk, including the Royal Observatory, National Maritime Museum, the Cutty Sark, Old Royal Naval College, Queen’s House and Greenwich Market. Put on your comfiest boots and join your knowledgeable guide to experience the majesty of Britain’s naval zenith and meet the spot where Thor had a fight with Christopher Eccleston in ‘The Dark World’. This tour is led in small groups, so there’ll be no pushing or shoving. 

12.  Jack the Ripper tour with fish and chips

No name gets shivers running down the spine quite like Jack the Ripper, the infamous, never caught serial killer who terrorised the foggy streets of late Victorian London. See the sinister side of the city as you follow the blood-soaked footsteps of Jack and Sweeney Todd, wandering down gas-lit alleyways on a very spooky walking tour of London. Arriving at each scary spot by coach, your guide will dish out shocking true-life details about these infamous London murderers. Get goosebumps at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the most haunted theatre in the city, and hear stories of the Ripper’s East End. Then polish the night off in style with a fish supper at a traditional East End boozer.

13.  Bowl of Chalk walking tours

The name? It's Cockney rhyming slang for 'walk'! So that’s 'Walk walking tours’, which admittedly doesn’t have quite the same ring. Maybe don’t quibble about that to Jonnie, the born-and-bred Londoner with a passion for taking people on walks around the city and sharing some of its secrets. His weekend tours are fun, laidback and – best of all for the budget conscious– delivered on a 'pay what you can' basis. Private weekday tours can be booked too: take a look on the website for further details.

14.  Unseen Tours

These alternative, extremely worthwhile tours are run by The Sock Mob, a social enterprise that works with homeless, ex-homeless or vulnerably housed people. And the guides who lead the four different tours of four very different bits of London – that’s Covent Garden, London Bridge, Soho and Brick Lane – have all experienced homelessness at some time in their lives. This absolutely doesn’t mean the tours are gruelling misery porn that dwells on the hardship of the guides’ lives – far from it! Actually they're fun, laidback journeys through each area's local history, with a few important details about social injustice thrown in too.

15.  East End street art walking tour

If you’re a Londoner, there’s a decent chance that you’re not so bothered about the historical side of walking tours. After all, you’re up to speed. You know it all. So here’s the chance to get to know a very different side to the capital. This two-hour tour takes attendees through the street art of the East End, wandering through alleys and markets and telling the stories of artworks through the artists that made them. Learn whose tags are whose and discover the history and meaning behind the art adorning the walls of this historic district.

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15 Best Walking Tours in London

By Julia Buckley

London is full of history. Not that you’d necessarily know it; royal palaces and top-tier museums aside, it tends to be coy about its past. Between the shapely skyscrapers of the City of London—the business area—are churches that predate the Great Fire of London; the hipster East End was once home to immigrants that changed the country’s history.

But this isn’t a city stuck in aspic; it’s making history, too. A new breed of walking tours in London will show you a different side, whether the street artists who are making waves on the ground, or the people crafting the food and drinks of the future U.K. food scene.

There are common tours aplenty, too, but what London excels in is small-scale walking tours, done as a passion by the founders. From a lesson in black history to musicians, the emphasis on social history is strong. Lace up those sneakers—here are 15 of the best walking tours in London for your next visit.

Tales of Plague Arrow

Look for the man holding the rat (yes, rat) on the stick near Tower Hill Tube station when meeting up with your tour group, which spans anywhere between 4 and 25 people. The walk—about two miles over the course of two hours—is professional but fun, and there's not just a guide but an actor, too, who jumps in for various scenes. Booking is highly recommended, but last-minute arrivals are also possible (as long as the tour is running).

London Fire Walk Arrow

You'll meet at Monument—not the Tube station, but the Monument to the Great Fire of London the station takes its name from. This is a lovely, relaxed tour with David Steer, who calls the project his "baby." It's all on foot—two miles in two hours—and advance reservations are essential.

Jermyn Street Fashion Walk Arrow

A seriously professional private tour, curated to your preferences. They recommend groups no larger than eight, and it's all done on foot. Art History UK has a pool of 15 guides, four of whom lead the Jermyn Street walk. Most have a background of art or history, combined with fashion, and one even trained as a tailor.

Mayfair: A Spy's Guide Arrow

Detour is a revolutionary app that provides walking tours, narrated by real experts, on your phone, guided by GPS. One of 15 walks in London, this one is narrated by Annie Machon, a former MI5 operative (read: U.K. spy). The joy of it being app-based is that you can do it at any time you wish, although ideal times are noted on the app for each tour.

Anna Borges

Jessica Puckett

Karthika Gupta

Historic Pubs, Food & Beer Tour Arrow

Think of this as a walk with friends rather than a tour (groups are capped at 12). You meet at a prime selfie spot—at Rotherhithe, overlooking the Thames—then catch the Overground to Wapping to hit the pubs. By reservation only. Five of London's most historic pubs in four hours is a blessed kind of endurance task.

Tour for Muggles Arrow

This is as delightfully bonkers as England gets. The tour starts near London Bridge Tube station and moves on to locations used in the Harry Potter films (and a couple of book locations). There's one Tube ride (London Bridge to Westminster) but otherwise it's all on foot, and a fair amount of ground is covered in 2.5 hours. Groups are capped to 20 and run the gamut from families to millennials, and even pensioners.

London Urban Adventures: Soho Historic Pubs Tour Arrow

This isn't the raucous gathering you'd expect—guests are there for the history of Soho as much as for the pubs. The two founders and guides (they will be taking on co-workers in 2018) are very knowledgeable about Soho—one was an archeologist before he took this up—and their enthusiasm shows. Rather than deliver a script to a set itinerary, they switch up their stops, tailoring the pubs they stop at to the group's interest.

Shoreditch Street Art Tours Arrow

An insider's guide to the London street art scene, with groups led by photographer and writer David Stewart who's been part of the scene for 15 years. It's all on foot, and takes 3.5 hours with a break in the middle. David is ingrained in the scene—and he'll take you past everything from Banksy works to stickers stuck on lampposts.

Walk Eat Talk Eat Arrow

The three guides who do this tour come from different backgrounds spanning writing, acting, and comedy, but all have a passion for London and know the area well. There's a set itinerary, but the guides tailor their talks to their own interests—and those of the group, of course. Forget Borough Market—this tour takes you to in-the-know places you won't have heard of, like Maltby Street Market and Jensen's Gin Distillery in Bermondsey.

SideStory Travel: The Actor's Stage Arrow

This super-curated private tour is led by Michelle Butterly, an actress who's trod the boards of the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre. It's a private tour so Theatreland is your oyster. Everything is accessible, though you should warn beforehand if you need adjustments. Anyone who loves theater or acting will love this tour.

Black History Walks: Notting Hill Arrow

This is a fascinating, professionally run tour—one of eight Black History Walks in London (the other walks include one around St Paul's and Bank). Reservations are essential; groups meet at the nearest Tube station. The tour dives deep into the background of the Notting Hill Carnival. It's also an eye-opener into a history that's far longer than many people realize.

Undiscovered London: Camden Markets and Musical Legends Tour Arrow

This is a major tour that you can just turn up for, though reservations are preferred. Led by a guide (plus a 'busker' who accompanies the tour) groups of up to 25 meet at music venue Koko, appropriately enough. The guides—drawn from a pool of 30 who work for tour agency Undiscovered London—are mostly actors, so they're good at engaging your attention.

London Loo Tour Arrow

Fittingly, you meet at Waterloo Station, beside the public toilets. From there you walk to the West End, via various public toilets—about 1.5 miles in up to two hours. Groups are capped at 20. The tour ends at an underground bar in a former public toilet. (Drinks are discounted.) People wanting to scratch a little deeper under London's surface will love this.

East End Walks Arrow

East End Walks is a collection of 15 tours run by one man, David Rosenberg. The tours are spread out across the month, but all cover the social history of the traditionally working class area. Groups are capped at 30; you meet near the Tube station. Rosenberg, whose grandparents emigrated to the East End as children, is passionate about the area and its social history—it holds the story of the working class, which is rarely told. His enthusiasm is infectious.

Royal London Full Day Experience Arrow

Context Travel calls on up to 12 experts (mainly historians) for this private tour, and everything is customized to your requirements (you get a pre-tour questionnaire). Plus, they'll pick you up from your hotel or meet you at Westminster Abbey, you're free to take a taxi if you get tired, and guides use iPads to bring things to life. Make sure to reserve at least 48 hours ahead.

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The 15 Best London Walking Tours

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September 5, 2023

London is a city of stories, where modern skyscrapers nestle against centuries-old structures, and every cobblestone might have a tale to tell. The best way to experience London’s multifaceted history is on foot. Walking tours offer an intimate experience of the city, and with numerous options available, it’s easier than ever to dive deep into the neighborhoods, landmarks, and legends that make London such a fascinating destination. Here are the 15 best walking tours to consider during your next visit.

The Original London Walks

Established in 1968, The Original London Walks set the standard for guided tours in the city. Their expert guides cover everything from Jack the Ripper’s haunts to “Harry Potter” film locations. With no need for pre-booking and a diverse set of themed walks, this is a perfect choice for spontaneous explorers.

Sandemans New Europe Tours

Renowned for their free walking tours, Sandemans offers a comprehensive look at London’s iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament. Their enthusiastic guides work primarily for tips, ensuring you get a passionate, high-quality tour.

London Walks: Secret London

Venture off the beaten path to discover London’s more obscure stories. From hidden gardens to forgotten graveyards, the Secret London tour is perfect for return visitors or those looking for something a bit different.

Historical Royal Palaces Tours

For those captivated by the UK’s royal history, tours of the Tower of London, Hampton Court, and Kensington Palace are indispensable. With guides dressed in period attire and tales of intrigue and betrayal, you’ll feel transported back in time.

Context Travel’s Literary Bloomsbury Walk

Literature aficionados will adore this tour, which delves into the lives of Virginia Woolf, E.M. Forster, and other luminaries of the Bloomsbury Group. As you walk, you’ll discuss their impact on modern literature amidst the very streets they once roamed.

Footprints of London: River Thames Tour

The River Thames has been London’s lifeblood for centuries. This tour explores its banks, bridges, and historic importance, offering a unique perspective on the city’s development.

Alternative London Street Art Tour

East London is a hotspot for contemporary street art, and this tour showcases works from artists like Banksy, Obey, and Space Invader. As a bonus, you’ll learn about the area’s social and cultural transformations.

Eat London Food Tours

Combine sightseeing with sampling London’s diverse culinary offerings. From traditional British fare to the flavors of Brick Lane’s Bangladeshi community, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Black History Walks

This tour highlights London’s African and Caribbean histories, often overlooked in mainstream tours. From Roman times to the present, it offers a poignant look at Black British heritage.

Witches Tours of London

Dive deep into London’s mystical and supernatural history, from medieval witch trials to modern pagan practices. The tour is a mix of history, folklore, and spine-tingling tales.

The Beatles Walk

Beatlemania remains alive in London, and this tour takes fans on a journey through significant locations, including Abbey Road Studios and the famous zebra crossing.

Muggle Tours

A must for “Harry Potter” fans, Muggle Tours transport participants to locations like Diagon Alley (Leadenhall Market) and the Ministry of Magic. Plus, the guides sprinkle in tidbits about London’s real history.

Ghosts of London

Delve into London’s haunted past by visiting renowned paranormal hotspots like the Tower of London and Greyfriars. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, the chilling tales are sure to entertain.

Sherlock Holmes Tour

London’s most famous detective comes alive in this walk around Baker Street and other notable locations from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories.

London LGBTQ+ History Tour

Discover the rich LGBTQ+ history of London, from the trials of Oscar Wilde to the vibrant Soho district. It’s an enlightening exploration of love, politics, and resilience.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just eager to stretch your legs, London’s diverse walking tours cater to every interest. Each tour offers a unique lens through which to view this magnificent city, ensuring that every stroll is both enlightening and enchanting. So, lace up your walking shoes and dive into the rich tapestry of stories that London has to offer.

Beyond this list of 15 curated walking tours, London’s vastness offers the chance to tailor your touring experience. Here are some additional considerations for those wanting to personalize their exploration:

Seasonal Tours: London changes with the seasons. Some companies offer themed tours around significant events or times of the year. For instance, around Christmas, you might find tours highlighting the city’s festive lights and markets. During Halloween, expect even more ghostly tours showcasing London’s spookier side.

Private Tours: For those who prefer a more intimate experience, several agencies and independent guides offer private tours. This personalized touch ensures you can delve deep into specific topics of interest or set your pace.

Self-Guided Tours: Modern technology has made it easier for visitors to explore at their leisure. Apps like Rick Steves’ Audio Europe™ provide downloadable guides for self-led walks. Not only do you get insights into the city’s sights, but you also have the flexibility to pause, detour, or linger as you please.

Themed Experiences: If you have a very niche interest, there’s probably a tour for it in London. From tours focused on London’s Roman history to walks dedicated to the city’s iconic rock and roll locations, the city caters to enthusiasts of all kinds.

Accessibility: Many tour operators are increasingly cognizant of accessibility needs. If you or someone in your group has mobility challenges, look for tours that cater to various abilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the rich history and culture of London.

Tips for an Enjoyable Walk:

Dress Comfortably: London’s weather can be unpredictable. Always check the forecast, wear layers, and don comfortable shoes.

Stay Hydrated: While the UK isn’t known for its sweltering heat, walking can be thirsty work. Bring a refillable water bottle with you.

Mind Your Surroundings: London is a bustling city. Stay alert, especially when crossing roads or navigating crowded areas.

Engage with Your Guide: The best tours are interactive. Don’t be shy—ask questions, share insights, and contribute to the discussion.

Respect the City: As with any destination, be respectful. Don’t litter, be mindful of noise levels, and remember that some areas might have specific rules or cultural norms.

Walking tours in London offer an immersive dive into a city where history is palpably alive in every corner. Whether it’s the echoes of footsteps from centuries past, the artistic vibrancy of modern cultures, or the tantalizing scents from a global tapestry of cuisines, London beckons to be explored one step at a time. With the array of walking tours available, there’s no better way to get to know this iconic city from the ground up.

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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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Posted on Published: 23rd June 2023  - Last updated: 15th November 2023 Categories London Travel Tips

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

20+ Cool London Walking Tours to Help You Discover a Different Side of the City

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Looking to discover the best that London has to offer? These cool London walking tours delve below the city’s surface to offer a different perspective. 

London is vast and sprawling – to the point that it can sometimes feel unknowable. 

Sure, you can see all the city’s biggest landmarks in a couple of days, but what if you want to get beyond that? 

There’s no better way to discover London than hearing the stories surrounding the places within it – but where do you start?

Walking tours are a great way to get to know any city and London is no exception. 

Even though it’s safe to say we know the capital pretty well , we love taking walking tours to help us discover new parts of the city, or look at the places we’ve passed a thousand times with new eyes. 

From Harry Potter to the Beatles or even discovering the role different locations have played in historical events –  a London walking tour is a great way to immerse yourself in the cool, curious and sometimes peculiar world of the British capital. 

The Best London Walking Tours 

Harry potter walking tour of london .

Real talk: it’s pretty much impossible to visit London and not get swept up in Harry Potter mania . 

Whether you were the kind of kid who stayed up all night to finish the latest book before your friends, or you’re more of a casual HP fan, this tour will surely bring a smile to your dial.

After all, it’s no average Harry Potter walking tour. Sure, you could just spot a few sights as you stroll the city – but why do that when you can go totally Potter-mad?

Discover filming locations, secret spots that inspired JK Rowling and even find out what house the sorting hat puts you in. All while discovering the main highlights of London town.

Whether you’re 5 or 85, this organised walk in London is great fun.

Pick up your wand and explore the world of Harry Potter with this magical tour

Or take our very own self-guided Harry Potter walking tour…

Jack the Ripper Walking Tour of London 

So, cute ol’ Paddington Bear and the quirky London phone boxes are good at all, but you know you want to find out all about the city’s dark side.

It doesn’t get much darker than the infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper, who stalked London’s streets during Victorian times.

It’s one of the world’s most famous and intriguing unsolved crimes, and this London history walk will give you a closer look.

Not only will you take in some of the grim Ripper-related sights, but the use of a small projector recreates the scenery as it was back in Victorian times.

Learn more about the grisly and gruesome tales from the East End on this Jack the Ripper tour.

Sherlock Holmes London Walking Tour 

Do you love mysteries? Do you love putting your deduction skills to the test? Or, do you just really love Benedict Cumberbatch in a deerstalker?

Whichever it is, this Sherlock Holmes tour may be perfect for you. It’s a two-hour stroll around London, checking out everything related to the city’s favourite detective.

Check out scenes referenced in the novels by Conan Doyle. Then, spot some filming locations for the recent BBC show and movie remake.

This is a great way to discover plenty of Sherlock-related sights, as well as some of London’s top landmarks.

Sleuth your way around these Holmes-related sights on the Sherlock Holmes walking tour

CityDays’ Interactive Mystery Tours of London

Sometimes what we need when we’ve got a bunch of great options to choose from is a little more choice. If following in the footsteps of Harry Potter, or learning the ins and outs of just one subject doesn’t interest you, check out CityDays’ London Walking Tours.

They’ve got heaps of choices so that you can tailor your walk to exactly what you want to do. Don’t want to walk too far? They’ve got an option for that. Feel like exploring a certain part of London? They can help with that too. 

All the coordinates will be sent straight to your phone and you’re free to go at your own pace, exploring the best of London’s pubs, cafes and sites as you walk.

Book a CityDays London Walking Tour Here

Learn more about the grisly and gruesome tales from the East End on this Jack the Ripper tour

Half Day London Food Tour 

Take it from us – the food in our city is seriously exceptional. Wandering around is akin to taking a gastronomic journey.

The problem with this journey is that it’s easy to take wrong turns with so much choice on offer. It’s always a disappointment to waste a precious meal on a sub-par London eatery.

Avoid that predicament by taking this fabulous three-hour tour around the London Bridge area.

You’ll get the chance to stop at Borough Market before heading over to a local pub, where meats, cheese, and beer are on the menu. Round off the tour with a selection of British desserts. 

It’s a great introduction to London’s food scene. Plus, if you need any more recommendations then your guide will be happy to help.

Eat and drink your way around London on this half day food tour

City of London Walking Tour 

A city within a city, The City of London is the historical centre of London and is home to some of the city’s most important landmarks. Dating all the way back to Roman times, The City has been built layer by layer by the inhabitants of the past few millennia. 

Where better to learn about the history of London than the Square Mile? 

Learn about the stories of the Black Plague and the Great Fire of London as you wend your way between the area’s small lanes and alleys.

Learn about London past and present on this City of London walking tour

London’s Historic Pubs Walking Tour 

Now, we all know London has great attractions like Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge.

But you know what we think are London’s most iconic attractions? The pubs. From gloomy old boozers to flower-laden community living rooms, we just can’t get enough of them.

One of the (only) problems with London pubs is that the city just has so many of them, it’s hard to know where to start.

Well, a great starting point is this tour. It will take you to several historic pubs over two hours, and introduce you to the fascinating stories behind them. A great way to spend an afternoon, if you ask me.

B ook a place on the historic pub walking tour

Hidden London Walking Tour 

One thing we love about London is that hidden between the mega-famous attractions is a plethora of unknown gems.

Unfortunately, many visitors to London never get to see them as they just don’t know where to look.

That’s why we love this London history tour that focuses on the city’s hidden gems. 

Pop down little laneways, spy hidden courtyards and hear about the history behind some of London’s lesser-known attractions.

You’ll cover several hundred years of history during this tour, and hear plenty of weird and wonderful tales. So pop on those walking boots and get going.

Discover the hidden side of London on this walking tour.

London Night Photography Walk 

London is an awfully photogenic city. It seems around every corner there are views waiting to be snapped and hung on your wall – or proudly posted to Instagram.

To help you get some ah-may-zing photos of the capital, we highly recommend joining a photography walk like this one.

They’ll help you master your camera (whether it’s a trusty point-and-shoot, DSLR or even an iPhone) and get some great photos. 

It’ll help you unleash your creativity so you can get some unique takes on some of the world’s most iconic locations. All in all, we reckon it’s one of the best walking tours in London.

Explore London on a photography walk of the city

London Ghost Walk 

Do you love all things spooky? Do you wait anxiously for Halloween to roll around every year ? Are you constantly on the lookout for things that go bump in the night?

If so then you’ve simply got to book yourself onto a London Ghost Walk.

Head out in pursuit of the paranormal with a group of other ghostbusters. Along the way, you’ll find out about some of London’s creepiest and spookiest sites.

Sites include a forgotten plague pit, and Old Hallows Church – home to a spooky apparition.

Yeah, it’s probably best to leave the little ones at home for this one.

Get spooked on this London Ghost Walk

London’s Dark Side Walking Tour 

After you’ve seen the famous highlights (or before, we won’t judge), you might be itching to find out more about a different side of London.

Away from the royal pomp and pageantry or the glitz and glamour of Kensington, London has a serious dark side.

We’re talking murders, executions and taxidermy – yup, all that good stuff.

If you’re strong of stomach with even a hint of morbid curiosity, then I highly recommend heading out on this London guided walk.

Discover London’s gory history on this dark side walking tour.

Roman London Walking Tour 

When you think of the Romans, chances are you probably don’t think of London. However, trust us – the Romans were in London in a big way.

Yep, long before Parliament and the Palace were in charge, the Romans founded the city of Londinium. As you might have guessed from the name, it grew to be the city we love today.

While many of the Roman’s buildings have been lost, a surprising amount are still there – if you know where to look.

Luckily, to help you with that there’s this great tour. You’ll be an expert in Roman history in no time.

Explore Roman London on this walking tour

Exploring London’s Haunted Pubs 

Just in case London’s pubs needed any more character, there are plenty of stories of hauntings and other spooky sightings.

Yep, let’s be honest – “pub ghost” is almost as important for a good drinking haunt as a loveable “pub dog”.

This tour will help you discover several of London’s most haunted hangouts. You’ll also learn about the sordid and sombre tales that led to the spooky reputation.

Just be sure to hold onto your pint if anything suddenly goes bump in the night.

Drink your way around London’s haunted hangouts on this tour

Walking Tour of London’s Filming Locations 

It’s not just us who thinks that London is a pretty awesome city. Plenty of directors have flocked to the capital to feature it in films and TV shows.

In fact, being a London local it’s hard to watch a movie without spotting some local landmarks in the background.

To find out more about London’s film appearances, you can join this fun two-hour tour. You’ll be able to spot a range of famous backdrops from films including Batman Begins, Night at the Museum, and Wonder Woman.

Get behind the scenes on this filming location walking tour

Discovering London’s Soho Walking Tour 

There’s no arguing with the fact that Soho is one of London’s absolute coolest neighbourhoods.

But it’s not all about fabulous fashion and cocktails mixed to perfection. For decades, Soho has been the heart of London’s counterculture, youth protests and LGBTQ+ scene.

Yep, Soho is a neighbourhood with soul – one that is both brave, and seriously fabulous as well.

Discover it all on this walking tour. It will introduce you to the earliest history of Soho through to the present day, thrilling you with many great stories along the way.

Delve into Soho’s salacious history on this walking tour

A Naughty Side: Discovering Unsavoury London 

When it comes to the many walking tours London boasts, they often seem a little bit tame. 

Don’t believe all the pomp and properness of London’s galleries and museums. The scandals were a-plenty in historic London, and could be found all the way through to the top of the aristocracy.

Discover it all on this cheeky and eyebrow-raising stroll through London’s most notorious neighbourhood. No pearl-clutching allowed – we’re about to lift the lid on London’s naughty London.

Get naughty on this risque walk around London

London Sightseeing Walk 

Being short on time is no excuse not to see all the highlights of the capital. This is especially so with this short, sharp and shiny tour that takes in an impressive 20 sights.

And a trip around the London Eye to boot.

In the company of a fantastic guide, you’ll be marched around London taking in all the big-ticket items. 

Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, The Shard, the HMS Belfast and finally the London Eye… it’s all here in one well-organised package.

Explore London’s most striking landmarks on this tour

A Royal Palaces Tour

Enjoy a whistle-stop tour of three beautiful London Palaces, two royal parks, and finish off with High Tea on this brilliant London walking tour (well, technically there’s one black cab involved).

Kensington, Buckingham, and St James Palaces await you on this Royal guided walk. Enjoy sandwiches, tea, and scones in an exclusive Kensington Gardens location while you learn more about the Royal family’s history and, perhaps more importantly, why the British flippin’ love tea.

Explore London’s Palaces on this tour

London Cheese Tour

Are you a turophile? If, like us, you’re a little bit cheese-obsessed, why not take one of the best walking tours London has to offer.

With the help of a handy guide, you’ll be shown the best cheese spots in the capital. Rich stilton, classic British cheddar, and even an Italian “drunk cheese” pops up along the way.

The best part? This tour features samples galore – from the shop where Winston Churchill bought his cheese to the iconic Fortnum & Mason department store. You’ll also be able to test your dairy knowledge with a fun pop quiz on everything to do with cheese.

Say Cheese! On this foodie tour

Kensington Palace Gardens Tour with Royal High Tea

Fancy living the life of a royal? Well you can have a taste of just that for a few delightful hours on this tour of Kensington Palace Gardens. 

The tour takes you for a stroll through the beautiful gardens, filling you in on the royal history that surrounds them. You’ll take in sites like the statue of Princess Dianna and then finish up with high tea at the Kensington Palace Pavilion. 

There are options for sparkling wines in the pavilion if you really want to live it up. Why not treat yourself?

Live like a king on this Kensington Palace Gardens tour

British Museum Walking Tour 

One of London’s great attractions is its museums and they don’t come much greater than the British Museum. It’s undoubtedly one of the most interesting spots for any history buff to take a look around. 

The only issue is that there’s so much stuff. How can you take all that information in? Well having a tour guide explain it for you might help. 

That’s how it works on this guided tour of the artefacts. It takes you through a one-and-a-half hour spin of the best of the Roman, Greek and Egyptian worlds dropping gems of knowledge as you go. 

Discover the ancient world with this guided tour of the British Museum

The Beatles Walking Tour 

The band needs no introduction – they’re only the greatest rock ‘n’ rollers of all time. They also happened to spend a lot of time in our nation’s fair capital. 

With this tour you’ll be able to hit all the major sites. You’ll be in good hands too. It’s led by Richard Porter, author of Guide to the Beatles London. 

He’ll take you to Abbey Road where you can snap a pick on the crossing, round the houses of Ringo and Lennon, and help you recreate the opening scenes of A Hard Day’s Night. 

Beat the Beatle mania on this London tour

Go Behind the Scenes at Wembley Stadium 

Any football fans among you? If so they’re sure to love a look at Wembley Stadium’s inner workings. 

This guided, behind-the-scenes tour will take you through the locations that so many of football’s great players have been. You’ll walk the player’s tunnel, check out the press rooms and the trophy winner’s podiums.

You can even have a nosey around the Royal Box. 

Take an access-all-areas tour of Wembley Stadium

Practical Tips for Booking a London Walking Tour 

Free london walking tour vs paid tour .

Another option that you might have seen is the so-called free walking tours of London. If you’ve travelled around much of Europe, then chances are you’re familiar with how these work – you turn up, go on a tour, and tip what you think is fair at the end. 

These can be great fun if you’re on a budget, however, there are a few downsides: namely that they tend to be really crowded, and often they give a more light-hearted overview. 

We recommend choosing a guided tour as they are still affordable, but the group sizes are smaller and there are so many fun types to choose from.

Booking a London Walking Tour 

You might be wondering where the best place to book London walking tours is. While it is possible to book some tours directly with smaller providers, we recommend going through a respected site like Viator , Virgin Experiences or Get Your Guide . 

This way, you can compare lots of reviews, and also there is an independent customer service team to help you in the unlikely event that something goes wrong.

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The 11 Best Walking Tours in London for Every Interest

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The best way to immerse yourself in a new city is on foot, a sentiment that is particularly true of London. The British capital has many historical details that can be missed from a moving bus, so it's recommended to embark on one of the city's great walking tours, which are often themed. Whether you want to explore London's status as a popular filming location, for movies like Harry Potter or James Bond, or learn more about its history, there is a walking tour for every taste. Some tours are free for visitors, but many require tickets bought in advance, so be sure to plan ahead. Whatever your interest, here are 10 of London's best walking tours, from street art to historic pubs to romantic comedies.

James Bond Walking Tour of London

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Calling all spies: Brit Movie Tour's James Bond Walking Tour of London will hit all the notable filming locations from movies like "No Time To Die" and "Spectre." The tour also includes remarkable places from James Bond author Ian Fleming's life. The two-and-a-half-hour trek stops by the National Gallery, Whitehall, London's oldest restaurant, MI5 and MI6, with a professional guide who can spill all the secrets about filming the hit movies as you stroll. The tour dates and times vary, so check online ahead of your trip. This is best for adults and older kids, and some of the locations aren't accessible for parents with strollers.

Jack the Ripper Tour

Go back in time on the Jack the Ripper Tour , which strolls around Aldgate and Whitechapel, where the murderer used to terrorize women. The walking tour takes place in the evenings, of course, and explores the Victorian history of East London, stopping at various sites known to the killer. The paid tour takes place nightly at 7 p.m., and it's best to book online in advance. Afterward, grab a drink at the Ten Bells Pub, where one of Jack the Ripper's victims spent the evening before meeting her end.

The Beatles - In My Life Walk

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For a Beatles fan, no trip to London is complete without traversing the famous Abbey Road crosswalk. Visit the renowned studio on Richard Porter's The Beatles - In My Life Walk , which runs twice weekly. Pass the band's former Apple Shop, and see various houses and apartments where the band members have lived. Porter, who runs London Beatles Walks, is an expert in rock history, with several Beatles-themed tours regularly available for fans. His Rock and Roll - London Walk is another good option for those who want to delve into the London lives of artists like The Rolling Stones, The Who, Pink Floyd, and Jimi Hendrix.

Love, Actually Walking Tour

Emily Zemler

Brit Movie Tours boasts a comprehensive look at all the best rom-com sites around London on its Love Actually Tour with Last Christmas, Notting Hill & Four Weddings Sites . There are a lot of iconic spots you'll immediately recognize, including the famed "Love, Actually" bench and the Savoy Hotel from the end of "Notting Hill." Because the two-and-a-half-hour tour covers a lot of central London, it's also a great way to hit all of the big sites, like the London Eye and Covent Garden. There is also a separate Notting Hill Tour , which visits nine filming locations around the Notting Hill neighborhood.

See 30+ London Sights Tour

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Instead of picking a specific theme, try a walking tour that is all about seeing as much of London as possible. London Top Sights Tours runs a five-hour marathon tour, See 30+ London Sights Tour , that hits more than 30 famous attractions around the city, from Buckingham Palace to the London Eye to the Houses of Parliament. Kids are free with a paying adult, and tours can be booked in advance online. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring along some rain gear, just in case.

Tour For Muggles

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While most of the Harry Potter films were shot in a studio (which fans can visit), there are numerous locations around London associated with the fantastical movies. Tour For Muggles takes non-wizards to various shooting locations throughout the city over two hours. See Leadenhall Market, the Millennium Bridge, and more as your guide offers up Harry Potter trivia and facts about the filming of the movies. While the trek is suitable for kids, it's recommended for those over age seven (or who can endure two hours of walking).

Street Art & Graffiti Tour

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Join Strawberry Tours on a free stroll to explore East London's street art, dubbed the Street Art & Graffiti Tour . The two-hour tour pass through areas like Brick Lane, Shoreditch, Fashion Street, Bateman's Row, and Spitalfields, where you can stop to admire works by street artists like Banksy and El Mac, Stik, and Space Invader. The tour is free and can be booked online in advance, with all tours meeting outside the Shoreditch High Street Overground Station. Check the Strawberry Tours website for updated dates and times.

St. James Jaunt

Explore the London area of St. James, located near Piccadilly Circus, to discover the past lives of literary greats. Put on by London Literary Tours, the St. James Jaunt takes visitors to see where writers like Virginia Woolf, Noel Coward, and Ian Fleming once lived, played, and worked. The tour lasts two and a half hours, typically twice a week. The guides are exceptionally knowledgeable, with lots to share about London's literary history.

Drink London Tour

Follow in the footsteps of Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare as you stroll to several historic London pubs on Liquid History's Drink London Tour . It departs daily at 2 p.m. from the St. Paul's Underground station and includes stops at several pubs, including Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. The tour also explores Fleet Street's history and legends, like the infamous Sweeney Todd. Participants can grab a pint or a pub snack at the various stops (at their own expense) or just indulge in the historical sights.

Changing the Guard Walking Tour

London's Changing of the Guard is a real spectacle, and Fun London Tours makes it easy to see it in the best way with their Changing the Guard Walking Tour . The tour meets outside the Criterion Theatre at the Piccadilly Circus tube station and strolls around to various stages of the daily ceremony, rather than forcing you to stand in one place for its entirety. It's fast-paced (wear comfortable shoes), but it's a great way to get immersed in the event. Tickets can be booked online. Be sure to check the meeting time, as it is earlier on Sundays.

Secrets of the London Underground

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Uncover the hidden history of London's Underground, also known as the Tube. Secrets of the London Underground , led by Evan Evans, takes visitors from Baker Street Station, home to the world's original underground railway, through central London. It includes stops at Oxford Circus, Green Park, Piccadilly Circus and Westminster, as well as a glimpse of a former Tube station that once held Churchill's offices during the war. The tour, done one foot and via Tube (you provide your own travel card), lasts about two hours. It's perfect for those who want to literally go a bit deeper into London's past.

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London Walks

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London Walks - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Walking Tours and Experiences in London

Free Royal Westminster Tour*

Explore the history of the Royal family and Parliament as you see London's most famous sights, from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben.

     Schedule  - See Calendar

     Meeting Point - The Clermont Hotel

     Duration - 2.5 Hours

Free Historic City of London Tour*

Learn the story of the City of London's evolution from Roman trading port to the most powerful financial district in the world.

     Schedule - See Calendar

     Meeting Point - Tower Hill

Free London in a Day Tour*

Explore all of the London Landmarks in one tour ! Everything from Big Ben to the Tower of London and everything in between!

     Schedule - Private Tour Only

     Duration - 5 - 6 Hours

Free Jack the Ripper Tour*

Travel back to the Autumn of Terror 1888 and investigate a series of murders that sent shockwaves through London.

     Duration - 2 Hours

Free Street Art of  Shoreditch Tour*

Enter a world of possibility, where the walls are blank canvases and the flick of a spray can inspire rebellion and revolution.

     Meeting Point - Shoreditch High Street

Free Harry Potter Wizarding Tour*

Leave your inner muggle behind and discover the magical secrets hiding right under your nose.

     Meeting Point - The Palace Theatre

Free Ghosts, Ghouls and Ghastly Murder Tour*

Hear the terrifying tales of London’s worst villains, who killed and were killed and then came back to kill again.

     Meeting Point - Cleopatra's Needle

Free Rock and Roll Soho Tour*

Explore the birthplace of London's Rock and Roll scene, the heart of the old Red Light District and hear tales of debauchery and drunken misadventure through the ages.

     Meeting Point - Golden Square

Free Sherlock Holmes & the Art of Deduction Tour*

Grab your deer stalker hat and explore locations visited by Sherlock Holmes in the books, films and tv show!

     Meeting Point - Piccadilly Circus ​

Free James Bond & The History of Espionage Tour*

Join and step into the shoes of the world’s most famous spy!

    Schedule -  Private Tour Only

    Meeting Point -   The Clermont Hotel

    Duration -  2 Hours

Free Queer & LGBTQ+ History Tour*

Explore London's queer hub & home and uncover 2000 years of LGBTQ+ history.

    Schedule -  See Calendar

Private Tours

Booking a tour for 8 or more people? Whether you're a school, friends or family, get in touch about our different packages.

WHAT IS A FREE TOUR? *

We run all of our walking tours of London on a pay what you think it’s worth basis. We've all had the experience of paying for an activity up front and then later on, feeling like it was not worth the money. We take that problem away. There is no booking fee for our free tours, and no payment is required before the tour begins. If you have fun then you can decide if you would like to tip your guide. The value is up to you, whatever fits in with your budget. This makes our tours affordable to everyone, regardless of their finances, but also incentivises our guides to never stop trying to improve, as the system rewards the guides who provide the best quality tours. Tipping is always voluntary and our guides will never pressure you into it, but this is their job so if you have had fun, we ask that you take a moment to consider what it was worth to you.

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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The Best London Walking Tours, 10 Incredible Routes

Interactive walking tours of london, bring the city to life..

• CityDays brings an immersive new way to have a walking tour in London
• Discover London's historic landmarks, secret sights & hidden gems
• Solve fun challenges & puzzling clues to unlock your way
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What to expect on a CityDays Walking Tour

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Find Your Perfect Walking Tour

Each walking tour explores a different area of London, find the route that suits you best or work your way through! All bookings are fully flexible, alter your booking freely.

A Rift In Time

A ghost of Victorian London, will they be saved or scorned, you decide!… more

From London to Londinium, back to where it all began… more

All Gone South

The underbelly of medieval London… more

Search For Shoreditch

Puzzling towards painted streets… more

Greenwich Guile

Glorious gardens, fantastic cityscapes and the origins of time itself… more

Secrets of the Squares

Drink with Dickens then journey to the heart of Soho… more

A Forbidden Fayre

Mayfair, more than a Monopoly square… more

Mysterious Mews

Twist through Kensington's hidden gardens and cobbled backstreets… more

Return of Jack the Ripper

A body has been found in Whitechapel. Has he returned… more

Humanity's Last

How far are you willing to go to survive… more

Clues don't require any prior knowledge and are made up of two parts:

1) Obscured directions that make reference to the city around you. Unravel their meaning and be guided by your surroundings.

2) A puzzle to be solved once you've followed the directions, search nearby to find your answers.

CityDays aim for an enjoyable, just-the-right-amount, level of difficulty that is inclusive for all! Help messages are available should you need a bit of support.

Guided by clues sent to your phone

• Receive snippets of history, quirky facts and intriguing stories about the areas you visit.
• Pub/cafe breaks along your hunt, all totally optional and some with discounts on food & drinks.
• Make memories at locations along the way, get inspiration from previous teams and share a clever snap!
• Go at your own speed, or go for top spot on the game leaderboard.

London Walking Tour Reviews

The great things our customers have to say about CityDays Walking Tours

Our second City Days treasure hunt and another fabulous day! My husband was born and bred in central London and once ag…

Windsor oldies

Great day out exploring parts of London you would never normally do

Seekers of Aravos

I was in a team with my partner and our 9 year son. We had a blast. There was something for us all!

Are you okay?

We really enjoyed the scavenger hunt! It was a great way to get outside and enjoy the city in a different way. We both …

Three Women and No Baby

Second one I have done. Such a brilliant format. The clues are well written and make you really look at what’s around y…

Great way to entertain teenagers, they loved it.

A great way to learn about a city and have fun doing it. The clues were good and the walk was about right

Team Hammond

My wife and I had a fantastic day of exploring and refreshments. We will definitely be back!

Daryls birthday

Really fun morning. Would definitely recommend

Bickle's Bongles

The clues were excellent - easy to follow without being too easy to solve! Took us on a very pleasant journey around Lo…

Donkeys@2pm

It was excellent. Only error we made was at the Plague for the Hungarian Revolution of 1956. This was because the bronz…

Jannie's jaunts

Great fun and a fabulous way to look around a city, our first time, but not the last

Had the most amazing time doing our murder mystery trail! Well thought out, perfect clues, and a lovely city to do it i…

Amazing day out!!

spectacular

Team Kataraang

Was a super fun day, even as Oxford students!It was great learning so many new things about the city and paying attenti…

Doctor and the Cats

Great fun and interesting places to discover, especially Mercato Market

This was so much fun, such a good idea and more people need to know about it! Highly recommend!

It was our first walk and we loved it! We have been in London for many years and have not seen some of the places befor…

A very fun, head scratching activity. A great way to explore the city without feeling like you’re walking for miles; gr…

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The best self-guided walking tours in london.

As all explorers know, the best self-guided walking tours in London (or anywhere else in the world!) show you all the famous sites as well as some of the lesser-known landmarks that often go unnoticed, otherwise known as hidden gems . 

The good news is that London is absolutely full of them. They could be historical pubs, building quirks, lampposts, statues or even anomalies in the pavement. We’re not picky about the form our secrets come in: but we are very fussy about choosing the best hidden gems in London to show you. 

Our self-guided London walking tours deliver these fascinating secrets as well as leading you around London’s most famous boroughs. The only way to uncover them is by solving our puzzles and experiencing a trail for yourselves. Here’s more info about which trail might suit you best…

10 Top London Walking Tours

1. Central London Walking Tour - Secrets of the Squares

A blend of iconic landmarks and tucked away treasures, Secrets of the Squares is one of our most sought-after London walking tours. Navigate Central London’s most well-trodden streets while discovering its best-kept secrets. 

Even if you think you’ve seen Piccadilly Circus, The Mall, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Soho and Chinatown before – prepare to be amazed at the many curiosities concealed within Central London.

Perfect for:

• First-time tourists in London
• Returning tourists who missed key sights
• Newly-arrived residents in Central London
• People looking for unique things to do in Central London

2. Mayfair Walking Tour - A Forbidden Fayre

Put your posh pants on and explore one of the world’s most expensive districts, Mayfair. A Forbidden Fayre is a London walking tour that takes you through the high-class haunts of Mayfair, packed with puzzles and tantalising tales about some of the district's biggest characters. 

Add your footprints to the plush pavements that have graced no less than Hendrix and Handel, an American president and even a Victorian dandy who used to wash his boots with champagne. Mayfair - more than just a Monopoly square!

• First-time and returning tourists to London
• Trivia fanatics
• Exploring secret places in London
• Venturing through London’s ritziest neighbourhoods

3. Dickens Themed Walking Tour - A Rift in Time

One of the best secret London walks for armchair detectives and Victorian history enthusiasts, A Rift in Time is a London walking tour that allows you to experience time travel as well as a Dickensian adventure of your very own through Covent Garden . 

Tiptoe through a narrative walking tour packed with puzzles and clues, all the while pursuing a mysterious stranger. Who is he – a victim or a villain? You decide, all the while soaking up enigmatic passages, historic arcades and, of course, plenty of charming pubs along the way.

• Fans of Dickens and Victorian London
• Team-building activities
• Amateur sleuths who love a gripping storyline
• Families and friends looking for unique things to do in London

4. City of London Walking Tour - The City

Ah, Londinium! This City of London Walking Tour absorbs 2000 years’ worth of London history into just a few hours (2.5 - 3.5 hrs). The City of London is the original core of the UK’s capital and received its nickname, The Square Mile, from the Romans. 

Fun fact : The Roman word for “mile” derives from “ mille passus ” or “one thousand paces”. 

One of the best outdoor activities in London, this interactive walking tour takes you on a puzzle-filled adventure from St. Paul’s Cathedral to the Tower of London, past historic inns and even includes an Ancient Roman amphitheatre.

• First-time and returning tourists
• Family and friend group activities in London
• Exploring historic sites in a novel way
• Seeing Central London’s major and hidden sites

5. Southwark Walking Tour - All Gone South

For those looking to uncover London’s secrets south of the Thames, All Gone South is a walking tour that takes you through London’s Most Historic Borough (it was founded in 880 by the Anglo-Saxon King Alfred). Discover South London hidden gems tucked beside iconic landmarks such as the Tate Modern art gallery as you decipher clues to take you around Medieval London’s hedonist haven. 

All Gone South is a great way to experience alternative London attractions, taking in historical and arty points of interest. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, especially foodies who will appreciate the many eateries, food vendors and pubs dotted along the way.

• Getting to know South London’s hidden gems
• People interested in Medieval history
• Modern Art enthusiasts
• Culinary connoisseurs

6. Greenwich Walking Tour - Greenwich Guile

Although it’s tucked away in south-east London, Greenwich should be at the top of your London walking tours list. Not only does it have Royal connections (both Henry VIII and his daughter Elizabeth I were born at Greenwich Palace, now the Old Royal Naval College), but it’s also home to time itself! 

Greenwich Guile is one of the best secret London walks for exploring an alternative area of London. It allows you to take a wander through London’s lesser-known attractions, picking up tidbits of maritime, Victorian and local history as you decipher cryptic clues in one of the capital’s greenest areas. There’s art, architecture and, of course, a visit to an excellent Victorian pub along the way.

• Tourists who want to expand their knowledge of London
• Family and friend groups who love the outdoors
• People who thrive in green spaces
• Maritime history lovers
• Getting acquainted with royal history

7. Kensington Walking Tour - Mysterious Mews

Popular with the rich and famous, Kensington is a ritzy suburb full of quirks and curios. Despite its fame for being home to some of London’s most iconic museums including the V&A, Sambourne House and the Natural History Museum, Kensington is crammed with hidden gardens, remarkable oddities like headless lampposts and stories of Cold War espionage.

Mysterious Mews is a must for anyone who enjoys going beyond the obvious and delving deeper into local intrigues while never being too far from London’s notorious hotspots. Ideal for small or large groups, this London walking tour will test your ability to crack puzzles and pay attention to the finer details of Kensington.

• Small or large groups
• Tourists looking to expand their knowledge of London
• Families (there are lots of great museums and child-friendly eateries along the trail)
• Pub-lovers 
• Residents of London
• Celebrity spotters (Who knows who you’ll spot along the way!)

8. Shoreditch Walking Tour - Shoreditch Shuffle

If your heart beats for art, there’s no better London walking tour than the Shoreditch Shuffle . 

Formerly known as one of London’s most debauched neighbourhoods, Shoreditch has undergone an incredible transformation. It’s hard to believe that just a hundred years ago, Shoreditch was one of the poorest neighbourhoods in London where many were living without basic amenities. 

This trail is an excellent balance of high and low brow: you’ll see incredible pieces of modern art, colourful murals and walk through the burial grounds of resting literary giants, as well as the chance to dip your toes into Shoreditch’s wartime secrets and experience some of the best eateries in London’s East end.

• Art lovers 
• Fans of modern history
• Sampling independently run pubs, cafés and street food

9. Jack The Ripper London Walking Tour: Return of The Ripper

Good enough to make it onto our list of top Murder Mystery London Experiences , Return Of The Ripper is a London walking tour for crime fans and amateur sleuths alike.

This self-guided Jack The Ripper Tour takes you around the Ripper’s former haunts in Whitechapel, but unlike other similar tours - you play detective at the same time!

Faced with a series of bizarre clues, a (real!) historical murder and plenty of puzzling facts, it’s your job to work out whether this ‘new’ body is the work of the Ripper or another perpetrator. 

• Amateur detectives and history fanatics
• True crime podcast lovers
• Residents and tourists interested in Jack The Ripper
• Exploring Whitechapel’s murky history

10. Westminster to Waterloo London Walking Tour: Humanity’s Last

Ever wondered how you’d react at the news of a zombie apocalypse? This is your chance to find out! 

One of the best London walking tours for getting your mind and heart racing, Humanity’s Last takes you on a whirlwind journey through West and Central London while “avoiding the spread” of a mysterious illness.

On this self-guided London walking tour, you and your teammates become the main characters in an interactive city game. Battle your way from Westminster to Waterloo where you can solve riddles, discern clues and make impactful decisions…

• London residents looking to explore the city through a fun game
• Tourists who have already seen London’s major landmarks
• Video game lovers
• Big and small groups looking for an activity

Find Hidden Gems in London

If you’re on the hunt for the best hidden gems in London, you’ve come to the right place. Our walking tours of London divulge some of the best-kept secrets and hidden nooks in the city - even ones that are hiding in plain sight. 

Don’t believe us? Here are just three hidden gems in London that we’re willing to share…

Paternoster Square

“That’s not a secret, I walk past it every single day!” we hear you say. 

Hold your horses - you might have seen this particular London hidden gem many a time but did you know, for instance, that the first English novel (Robinson Crusoe) was published right here in Paternoster Square? It was first published in April 1719 by The Ship and Black Swan, one of the most famous publishing houses of the 18th century.

Pelican Stairs

If you haven’t heard of this place before, it’s probably because you’re not a true crime fan. But here’s why it should be on your radar. Pelican Stairs is a hidden alleyway in East London that extends to an obscured London “beach” with a gruesome history - making this trip one of the spookiest London walks you can do in the city.

And not just any “beach” either. Once upon a time, over a hundred corpses washed up on the Thames shoreline right here - their identities and cause of deaths mostly unknown…

Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market is as almost as old as London itself - established in the 14th century, people have been buying wares on this very spot the same length of time as the Tower of London has dominated the capital’s skyline. 

Obviously, it’s been revamped a fair few times since its inception but over its long life, Leadenhall Market has collected quite a few historic London moments: to name a few, it was once home to a drunken goose called Tom, the first Harry Potter film was shot there and, last but not least, the historic market even featured as a circuit in Mario Kart 8. 

The Best Historical London Walks

Exploring London history is a bit like trying to eat a buffet all on your own: there’s no way you’ll make it around the whole table without feeling defeated. 

That’s why we break down our trails into suburbs and attach themes to some of our routes. We find it’s the best way to curate historical London walks that teach you snippets of history - spanning from the Roman era to yesterday. 

Don’t just take our word for it, though. Here are some of our weirdest facts about London to give you a taste of the sort of thing to expect from us!

Historical Facts About London: (1) A Situation in The Streets

In 1908, there were 24, 906 cars and 9, 782 motorcycles registered in London. Transport for London (TfL) estimates there are 2.8 million cars registered in London today, and 54% of households in the capital have at least one car.

Historical Facts About London: (2) Who’s Counting?

According to one newspaper published in 1885, London in 1884 had 101 hospitals and 407 newspapers. 

It seems the newly-formed Metropolitan Police had a job on their hands keeping the population’s blood alcohol content under control, too: that same year, 1884, 15,519 men and 9,618 women were arrested for drunkenness. 

Historical Facts About London: (3) Trams, Trains and Repair Costs

Although there’s barely a trace left of them today, Londoners were once great tram users. 

In 1907, London had 2, 151 miles of laid out streets to explore. Around 127 miles of them were covered by tramways, and an estimated 372,515, 754 users.

Summary: The Best Way to Join the Top Secret London walks

There you have it - 8 Top London walking tours to suit everyone. Whichever route you end up taking, you can be sure that you’ll be experiencing some of the best outdoor activities in London. Whether it’s a London history tour you’re after or you’re on a mission to discover secret places in London, you’re guaranteed to have a great time.

It takes less than two minutes to book your walking tour with us. Simply click the book tickets button at the top of our page, or any of the links in the article above. And don’t forget, you’re in charge! You pick the day, time, who you play with and how you receive your messages. If you get stuck, you can always ask for a handy hint.

Answers to any questions you have can be found on our FAQ page or contact us to talk about a walking tour for corporate team building in London.

Finally, don’t forget you’ll find us in cities all over the world . Wherever you are, we’ve got places to take you.

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• Westminster Abbey
• 10 Downing St.
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Graffiti & street art highlights.

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• 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

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London Walking Tours: See the Highlights of London in 1 Day

Last updated: March 26, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 20 Comments

If you are trying to see as many highlights as you can in London in one day, you might consider taking a full day London walking tour. These walking tours take you through the heart of the capital city with a knowledgeable local guide and give you a chance to see and learn about London’s most famous sites.

During my first visit to London, Laurence and I did a full-day London walking tour to get a good orientation of the city and see some of the most iconic sites. In one day, we saw so many recognizable landmarks, including the Tower of London , Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.

In addition to seeing all these iconic London sights, we also got to visit and partake in some fun London experiences, including a visit to the Tower of London before the crowds, a short boat ride on the River Thames, and witnessing the Changing of the Guard in front of Buckingham Palace.

If you are interested in seeing the highlights of London and only have a short time in the city, a half day or full day London walking tour may be the best option to make the most of your visit. You get a knowledgeable guide, pre-booked entrance tickets to a couple of London’s most iconic landmarks, and a wonder around the most popular area of central London.

We’ll share what we saw and did during our Best of London walking tour and share some photos and descriptions of the main places we visited. We’ll also tell you everything you need to know to choose and book your own full day London tour to see the highlights of London in one day.

Table of Contents:

Choosing a London Walking Tour

It can be difficult to choose the best London walking tour for your specific visit, needs, and time in the city. We’ll tell you the things to look for to help you evaluate various tours and also provide a list of London walking tours that we personally can recommend.

Tips for Choosing the Best London Walking Tour

Below are some questions to ask to help you choose the best London walking tour for you.

How long is the London walking tour?

Be sure to check to see how long the tours lasts, and check the starting time and ending time. Most tours have breaks in the afternoon for lunch so a 7.5 hour walking tour may be 9 hours if you include the lunch break.

Depending on how much time you have and how much you want to see, choose a tour that aligns well with your available time. Note that tours may run a bit long so be sure to plan so you are not rushed to make a train or flight.

Also be sure you are up for the amount of walking needed to take the tour. Are you OK with 6 to 8 hours of walking and standing with a break for lunch? The walking on all of these tours is mainly on flat even ground but there will be some steps and uneven pavement.

If you (or a member of your group) is concerned about the amount of walking, consider a tour that includes a driver and air-conditioned coach to reduce some of the walking time such as this popular tour .

These tours are long so may not be well-suited for those with younger children who may need more breaks and may get bored after a few hours. Consider a half day walking tour or a private tour designed for families with children in mind.

Most group tours in London are not recommended for those in wheelchairs or with reduced mobility. Those with special needs or concerns should consider a private tour like this one , which can be modified to suit the needs of almost any traveler.

Also be sure you know where it starts and ends so you can plan ahead. Most tours start and end in different places. But almost all end near major attractions with good public transit connections.

What London attractions are visited?

Make sure you check to see what attractions are included on the tour and which attractions and museums you will be allowed to actually go inside and visit. For instance does the tour go inside the Tower of London or just take a look from the outside?

If there are any must-see attractions you definitely want to see (e.g., Tower Bridge or Big Ben) be sure to make sure it is on the list of places seen on the tour.

What tickets are included in the tour price?

Most tours will include the entrance fees for the attractions that are visited on the tour, but not always. We recommend booking tours that include your pre-booked tickets and entrance fees if possible.

What sections are guided?

Although all the tours we recommend include a licensed tour guide, some sections of the tours may not be fully guided. For instance, some attractions do not allow tour guide visitors inside or only allow Blue Badge tour guides to guide inside.

The Tower of London and Westminster Abbey are two of these attractions. If your guide is not able to accompany you, you should be provided with an overview from your tour guide, entrance tickets, audioguide (if applicable), and given tips to make the most of your visit by your guide.

Is a meal included?

Generally, a meal is not included in most walking tours of London. But normally tours over 6 hours include a break for lunch that is at your own expense. These breaks are normally between 1 and 2 hours and the guide will provide suggestions for places to eat nearby.

So be sure to check and bring money for food and drinks on the walk if meals are not included.

What are the reviews like for the tour?

What do past customers say about the tour? Are the reviews overwhelmingly positive or are there a number of negative ones?

Negative reviews don’t necessarily mean a tour is terrible as people may leave negative review for a variety of reasons, but if you see a lot of them for a particular tour (especially if they say something similar), I’d choose another tour with more positive reviews. We give some of our own recommendations in the next section.

Total cost of the tour?

If you are deciding between multiple tours that sound good, price may help you decide. Be sure to consider the total cost of the tours if there will be additional costs during the tour (lunch, transport, entrance fees).

Leaving a gratuity for your guide is not obligatory on these walking tours in London, but it is common and most people do leave a tip at the end. But you should feel free to tip whatever amount you feel comfortable with if you enjoyed the tour.

Our Recommended Full Day London Walking Tours

There are numerous full day London walking tours that include a number of the city’s highlights. However, we recommend checking out the ones below, which are all with companies we have personally used and can recommend for walking tours in London.

• This well-rated 8-hour full day walking tour by Take Walks with a Blue Badge guide includes early morning entry to Westminster Abbey and a visit to the Tower of London, viewing the Changing of the Guard ceremony (and/or King’s Life Guard), a Thames river cruise, a walk across Tower Bridge, and views of many of London’s landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament (Big Ben), Trafalgar Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard. Includes a break for lunch on your own. We love the walking tours by Take Walks and this tour consistently is rated 5/5 by customers.
• This full day guided tour includes early morning access to the Tower of London, a short boat ride on the Thames, the Changing of the Guard ceremony in front of Buckingham Palace (or King’s Life Guard), and a view of the highlights of Westminster, including the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, Parliament Square, and Downing Street. Includes a break in afternoon for lunch on your own. I did this tour by City Wonders on my first visit to London in 2015 and it provides a great jam-packed introduction!
• This half day tour is essentially the morning part of the above described tour and includes early morning access to the Tower of London, Thames river shuttle, walking tour of Westminster, and Changing of the Guard ceremony. At only 4 hours, it is a good option for those who don’t have a full day but still want to see some of London’s top highlights and royal attractions.
• This 8-hour private tour (for up to 8 people) with Context Travel includes a private Blue Badge guide with visits to the Tower of London, Borough Market (lunch break here), and Westminster Abbey. It also includes seeing famous spots like the Houses of Parliament, The Shard, Tower Bridge, and St. Pau’s Cathedral. A car service can be added if desired. Since it is a private tour, small modifications can be made to the itinerary in advance to suit the group.

**Note that if you are thinking about a private tour with Context Travel, all Independent Travel Cats readers receive a 10% discount on any Context Travel tour when you book using our link: 10% OFF Context Travel tours  Please let us know if you have any difficulty receiving your discount upon checkout.**

Our Best of London Walking Tour Experience

Surprisingly, my first visit to London took place only in Spring 2015! Laurence had grown up in the United Kingdom and lived in London for a couple of years, but for me it was my first time experiencing this famous capital. We thought it would be a great idea to do a London walking tour so that I could get my bearings of this large city and see some of the highlights.

Note: the tour we booked is no longer available, but our experience should be fairly similar to most full day tours. If you are looking for a similar tour, we recommend this 8-hour full day walking tour by Take Walks.

After we had booked the tour, we received a confirmation voucher via email with the tour information and meeting time and place. Laurence and I arrived around 8:15am outside the ticket office for the Tower of London. We were greeted by our friendly tour guide named Shabby who we quickly learned was quite the entertaining character, and we were also joined by two young coffee-toting American ladies.

Admittedly, the weather was not great during the morning (cloudy, grey, and drizzly) but we felt very lucky to have such a small group of only four people. Expect larger groups unless you are traveling out of season. 

Our tour began promptly at 8:30 with an introduction to the day’s itinerary and more about the history of the infamous Tower of London which was the first place we visited.

Given that our tour was almost 7 hours long over the course of 9 hours, I will spare you all the details and share only our highlights from this tour below:

Tower of London

The Tower of London was the start of our London walking tour with City Wonders and probably the highlight of the tour for us. This is one of London’s UNESCO world heritage sites  and it has served as a fortress, prison, armory, Royal Mint, and place of execution among other uses during its long history. It currently holds the Crown Jewels which have been housed in the Tower of London for centuries.

Our group was among the first people let into the Tower of London that morning which is a special feature of this tour. Shabby, our guide, did not accompany us into the fortress but gave us information about the Tower outside and then gave us tips to guide our visit inside since people had different priorities in what they wanted to see.

Laurence and I were the first to see the Crown Jewels that morning which usually require a patient wait behind a long line of people. So that was a great feature of this particular tour. The Crown Jewels are definitely the most popular thing to see at the Tower of London, but you could spend all day visiting the various exhibits, buildings, and museums within the complex.

For instance the White Tower (oldest part of the complex) built by William the Conqueror is a must-see place for many.  You can also see and learn about the Tower’s famous ravens, visit the Medieval Palace, take a short guided tour (free with entry) with one of the Yeomen Warders (Beefeaters), walk sections of the medieval walls, learn more about the executions at the Tower, or visit the Fusilier Museum which provides the history of the British infantry regiment.

Obviously, you won’t have time to do all these things as part of a walking tour, but you can choose a couple that are most appealing. We chose to see the Crown Jewels, visit the White Tower, and see the Tower Green and execution site during our time.

This was a great overview of the Tower of London, but it is definitely a place I’d like to return to again!

Boat Ride on the River Thames 

After our visit to the Tower of London, we walked a short distance to catch one of the boat shuttles that goes up and down the River Thames. We also had a great view of the famous Tower Bridge from here.

The cruise was about 30 minutes long and took us from the Tower of London to Westminster. Although it was a relatively short boat ride, it gave us some time to relax and we had time to get a tea or coffee. During the cruise, Shabby pointed out notable sights along the way to our next destination like the HMS Belfast, the Shard, London Bridge, and Shakespeare’s Globe.

During our Thames ride Shabby explained to us that we would be spending our time in Westminster, which is a distinct section of London that constitutes its own city: the City of Westminster . Westminster contains many of the most famous London tourist attractions, including Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Hyde Park. 

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard

Probably the most famous place in the United Kingdom, Buckingham Palace serves as the current primary London workplace and residence for the reigning sovereign of the United Kingdom. It was originally built as a private residence by the Duke of Buckingham (hence the name) in the early 18th century, but was later acquired by British royalty and expanded over time.

During our visit Queen Elizabeth II was not in residence, as indicated by the flying of the Union Flag instead of the Royal Standard above the palace. However, we were not able to actually visit Buckingham Palace during our time in London as the palace is only open for public visits for about 8  to 10 weeks per year (generally August and September). 

If you are visiting London while the palace is open to the public and you want to visit later in your trip, be sure to book your tickets well in advance as they often sell out.

Depending on the walking tour you book and the day you book the tour (as well as weather and security conditions) you will likely see either the Changing of the King’s Guard at the forecourt of Buckingham Palace and/or the changing of the King’s Life Guard at the Horse Guards Parade.

If you want the best chance to see the Changing of the Guard, I’d book your tour for a Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday.

The space in front of Buckingham Palace is always crowded during the time of the Changing of the Guard and so Shabby took us to a spot in front of St. James’ Palace where we got very close to some of the regiments, including the Nepalese Brigade of Gurkhas that were part of the Changing of the Guard ceremony that day.

After the changing of the guard ceremony, we were able to get a much closer look at the palace and then we had a break for lunch. Shabby gave recommendations for lunch and pointed out where to meet after our lunch break. 

Laurence and I decided to use our break time to visit the Royal Mews (royal collection of historic carriages and coaches) next door on our own since we had a 2-day London Pass  (read our detailed London Pass review to find out if it worth buying for your trip). Then we just grabbed sandwiches to eat before heading back to the meet-up point to rejoin our group.

Trafalgar Square & Nelson’s Column

The second half of our tour began with a walk to Trafalgar Square. This famous public square contains Nelson’s Column, built to commemorate Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson who died at the Battle of Trafalgar, at its center which is guarded by the four famous bronze lion statues.

We then took off down Whitehall street, learning about the famous former Whitehall Palace along the way. The Palace of Whitehall was the largest palace in Europe until it was destroyed by a fire in 1698. Only a small portion of it still survives.

Along the walk, we made brief stop to look at the Horse Guards, the Cenotaph (national war memorial), and to take in the official residence of the British Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street. Unfortunately there is not much to see through the gate at Downing Street except for a fairly unimpressive facade and a door.

At the end of the walk down Whitehall street, we reached Parliament Square.

Parliament Square

Perhaps the most famous square in London, this green square is surrounded by a number of iconic sites as well as a number of administrative buildings, including Westminster Abbey, the Palace of Westminster, the Supreme Court, and many government buildings of Whitehall.

The Palace of Westminster , also known as the Houses of Parliament, is the meeting place for the British Parliament (both the House of Commons and the House of Lords) and is most recognizable for its famous Elizabeth Tower, often referred to as as Big Ben.

Few visitors know that Big Ben is actually the name originally given only to the large bell within the clock tower while the tower itself is officially known as Elizabeth Tower. There are great views of the Houses of Parliament from the square as well as along the Thames River nearby.

Parliament Square also contains a number of statues of famous people, including Winston Churchill , Abraham Lincoln, and Nelson Mandela.

Westminster Abbey

Many London walking tours either begin or end with a visit to (or at least a good look at) Westminster Abbey . It is definitely worth a look inside if you have the time while in London. It is one of several UNESCO World Heritage sites in London .

Westminster Abby is one of the most important historical and religious sites in London and has been used for all English and British coronations since William the Conqueror in 1066. In addition to coronations, it has been used for over a dozen royal weddings, including Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011. It is also the final resting place of lots of famous people, from royalty to notable scientists.

Highlights here include the nave, quire, high altar, coronation chair, Lady’s Chapel, Poet’s Corner, and the many shrines and graves. There are also other areas such as the Chapter House and cloisters that are worth checking out, as well as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries.

If you are visiting with a guide, they’ll take you to all the highlights, but if not, the audioguides here are excellent. Walking tours led by abbey staff, called vergers, and are available several times a day for a small additional fee.

Note that Westminster Abbey is closed to visitors and tour groups on Sundays and certain holidays.

Overall Thoughts on our Best of London Walking Tour 

The full-day Best of London walking tour with City Wonders definitely delivered on showing us the highlights of London. We saw so many of the most famous landmarks and sights in central London, from the Tower of London to Westminster Abbey.

A highlight for us both was touring the Tower of London and it was great to have early entry since it can get quite crowded there, especially around the Crown Jewels. It was also great to have the experience of doing the short boat ride on the Thames and seeing the changing of the guard. The break in the middle was also nice.

Our guide, Shabby, was quirky, knowledgeable, and friendly and she definitely made the history of the places we saw come alive. She was also quick to answer our questions when she could and give us additional tips for our time in London.

Our visit inside the Tower of London was great but it was not guided by our tour guide during our time inside as she was not a Blue Badge guide and therefore unable to provide guiding here. This did not matter to us as it allowed us to more easily cover the places we wanted to visit separately from the group, but it is something to consider.

Note that this walking tour also did not include an interior visit to Westminster Abbey. If you wish to also have a visit to Westminster Abbey included as part of the tour and wanted a guided tour of both the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey we’d recommend considering this group tour or this private tour instead which are both led by Blue Badge guides.

Overall, we both really enjoyed this tour and I think it is a great tour for any first-time visitor to London as it gives you a great overview of central London and a look at so many of London’s iconic attractions. I can’t wait to return to London to spend more time inside the Tower and do a guided tour inside Buckingham Palace!

So as you can see, you can see a lot of the city highlights on a London walking tour! Hope this article has helped give you a sense of what to look for in London walking tours, how to choose the best London walking tour for yourself, and what to expect on a full day London walking tour.

If you are planning your own trip to London in the future and are thinking about taking a London walking tour, you may want to PIN this article to Pinterest to find it again easily in the future:

If you are planning a trip to London, feel free to ask us any questions about London walking tours or anything else related to visiting London. Just leave us your questions in the Comments section below.

**Disclosure: We were invited to go on a complimentary tour by City Wonders in order to review their tours and provide feedback; however, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions. We were not financially compensated for this post.**

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Daniela Post author

June 10, 2023 at 2:20 pm

I have purchased the London Pass for five days. Is there a limit to how many visits I can do?

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

June 14, 2023 at 7:29 am

Hi Daniela,

Glad that you are visiting London and decided to get a London Pass. Generally if you are planning to visit London for 5 days and visit several of the bigger attractions you’ll save money with the pass. We also find it nice to be able to visit smaller attractions we may have never considered without worrying about the cost of just popping in.

So there is no specific limit on the number of visits, although you can only visit each attraction once. So for example you can’t visit Westminster Abbey on Tuesday and then try to visit it again on Wednesday.

The only restriction is that there is a set value for the pass in terms of the amount of credit or purse value of your pass. So the current purse value or credit limit on a 5-day London Pass is £595 for an adult or £430 on a child pass. That means you can visit as many of the included attractions until the entrance costs reach £595. In our experience, people rarely get to or exceed that limit, especially on a 5-day pass, so it is not really something I’d worry about. But if you are worried you are getting near it when using it in London, you can call or contact London Pass for your credit balance.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have any other questions as you plan your trip to London!

Best, Jessica

Paula Post author

April 10, 2023 at 6:06 pm

I love your walking tours advise- I am not sure if I did the 8 hour walking tour with ‘Walks’ – I am kind of double dipping if I bought a London Pass. I want to be able to enter sites- maybe the one without entry to Westminister you recommend and then entry to Westminister is a cheaper option if I come back and enter with pass???

April 13, 2023 at 10:06 am

Love that you have found some London walks that you like. So I think it will depend on where the specific walk goes and visits, and what you really want to see. You’ll want to do the math on it to see if it still makes sense since the main tour already includes a guided tour of the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and a boat tour. But all three of those are included on London Pass.

But yes, if you choose a tour without Westminster Abbey then that might make sense if you prefer to visit the abbey on your own. I would make sure to do the math to see if a London Pass makes more sense than just booking individual tickets depending on what is included in your tour.

Also just note if planning to visit Westminster Abbey soon, it will be completely closed from April 25th to May 14th. Many other popular attractions will be closed the day (and sometimes for a couple of days) around the Coronation.

Anyway, hope that helps and just let us know if you have more questions as you plan your trip.

Dale Fisher Post author

March 25, 2018 at 6:48 am

Your itinerary sounds perfect since we are staying for one day. We, husband and two daughters 21 & 23, leave in a few days and I will use your itinerary. We are staying at the London Arch so should I still start my day at the Tower of London? What if I begin at Westminster Pier and take the River Cruise to the Tower? I have pre booked tickets to the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey. I plan to do it all walking. I value any opinions. Thank you!! Dale

March 25, 2018 at 7:27 am

Hi Dale, I think that sounds like a good plan as long as the river cruise from Westminster leaves early enough to get you to the pier next to the Tower of London before your entrance time. Visiting the Tower of London early in the morning is a good ideas as parts of it can get really crowded by late morning/early afternoon. If you are planning to mainly stay within the Westminster section of London, it is an easy area of London to walk around and there is plenty to keep you busy. I hope you enjoy your family trip to London! Jessica

Dr. Aurélio Post author

June 21, 2017 at 8:26 am

Very good list of options that make me want to know London because I have not yet had the opportunity. The impression I have is that it is a very cold country I am not talking about climate, but about people

June 21, 2017 at 10:27 am

Hi Dr. Aurélio, Yes, there is so much to see and do in London and this gives you an idea of some of the highlights you could see in just one full day with a concentration on Westminster and royal London sites. But London is easily a place you could spend a week or more and not run out of interesting things to do on a trip. We have not found the people in London to be “cold” but of course many are busy working people like in any other major city of the world. But generally people will take a couple of minutes to help someone or give directions or advice. Best, Jessica

John Quincy Post author

March 11, 2017 at 9:00 pm

Hey, We are planning to go in a couple of months for a weekend and are looking for options ourselves. About the City Wonders tours, do you know how accessible it is for people in wheelchairs?

March 12, 2017 at 2:44 pm

Hi John, It really depends on the specific City Wonders tour – often they can’t accommodate people in wheelchairs or others with mobility issues on their group tours because of various constraints, but they almost always can if you book a private tour. But in any case, I would definitely call ahead and explain the situation and which tours you are interested in and see if it is possible. I hope you find a good option! ~ Jessica

Kristy Post author

January 12, 2017 at 2:45 am

That is timely! Thank you for sharing your experience about visiting London. We are planning to go in a couple of months for a weekend and are looking for options ourselves. About the City Wonders tours, do you know how accessible it is for people in wheelchairs? Thanks again 🙂

January 12, 2017 at 3:06 am

Hi Kristy, I don’t know for sure and I would recommend giving them a call (or any other company you are considering). This particular tour involved a lot of walking as well as entry into The Tower of London, the Thames boat, and a hotel for afternoon tea. I couldn’t find any specific information on their website. I would go through and make a list of the London tours you are most interested in and then give them a call to discuss the accessibility of each – they should be able to recommend the most accessible tours to you. Have a great trip to London! Bet, Jessica

Emily Post author

February 16, 2016 at 3:50 am

Oh these are some great tidbits on London :)! Excellent quality pictures also. My favourite spot is Waterstones on Piccadilly Circus. The best bookstore ever!!! Thanks for sharing!

travelcats Post author

February 16, 2016 at 4:15 am

Hi Emily, Thanks, glad you found our London tips helpful! I have not been to Waterstones yet but I believe it is the largest bookstore in Europe, right?! I will have to check it out as we are now based in the UK. Daunt Books, an independent bookstore with a focus on travel, is currently on the top of the list for me to visit as far as bookstores in London go! ~ Jessica

Aaron Jade Post author

October 16, 2015 at 4:32 am

Great list of options for us to check out when we hit London. can’t beat wander around a big city and getting absorbed into it all. Excellent quality pictures also. Thanks

November 2, 2015 at 5:51 am

Thanks Aaron, yes, London is one of those cities where you can wander around for a long time! Great to have some places in mind to visit and save the rest for the next visit! ~ Jessica

Jared Post author

October 15, 2015 at 2:39 pm

Great review – I hope to get some free time to explore London when I’m there for WTM in November. Have never really done the tourist thing there, so this is a handy guide, thanks!

Cheers, Jared

November 2, 2015 at 5:50 am

Hi Jared, Thanks, hope you enjoy your time in London and have some free time to explore the city. Enjoy WTM! ~ Jessica

AwesomelyOZ Post author

October 14, 2015 at 4:56 am

Oh these are some great tidbits on London 🙂 I hope to go sometime in my lifetime but we’ll see when! 🙂 I’d love to have some afternoon tea, I’m a sucker for tea! Thanks for sharing, I love the photo of Buckingham Palace and the guard! Have a great one Jessica -Iva

October 15, 2015 at 2:11 am

I think you’d enjoy London, so much to do and so many great free things to do! I am also a sucker for afternoon teas. I’ll be moving to the UK in January so will have much more time to explore this city in the future. ~ Jessica

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Embark On These 10 Best London Walking Tours For An Insightful Journey

Want to enjoy exploring London without going through the hassle of too much planning? Book one of these walking tours.

Famous for being one of the most walkable capital cities in the world, London has plenty of things to do that vacationers can reach on foot. It is unusual to drive around the city center, and travelers who are new to the place will feel odd. Booking walking tours allows one to soak in the experience as they navigate through the city’s most iconic attractions. After all, the British capital existed long before there were any means of transportation. So, of course, strolling through the city’s charming streets is the best way of learning the long, fascinating history and exploring the beautiful culture of the locals. Embark on these 10 best London walking tours for an insightful journey.

Related: These Are The 10 Most Famous Landmarks In London

10 Westminster 3-Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

Westminster is home to some of the top-rated attractions in London , making it a must-visit for vacationers of all interests. The area boasts numerous historical sights that one can explore on a walking tour. Westminster 3-Hour Walking Tour takes visitors through the city's attractions and then to Churchill's War Room, where they'll learn about the legend's life, including the incredible tactics he used to lead soldiers through WWII. During the tour, guests can explore the top 20 attractions in Westminster. The tour also includes a local fun guide and admission into Churchill War Rooms.

• Tour: Westminster 3-Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms
• Duration: Three hours
• Cost: From 483.64 per adult

Book this tour

9 See Over 30 Top London’s Sights Fun Local Guide!

Taking five hours to complete, this small group tour is one of the best London walking tours for an insightful journey. It takes travelers through a wide range of London's most iconic landmarks and comes with a guide who narrates the history of various places. This is much better than joining a bus tour, as it comes the guide offers personalized commentary. Some of the major stops throughout this tour include Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Shakespeare's Globe.

• Tour: See Over 30 Top London’s Sights Fun Local Guide!
• Duration: 5 hours
• Cost: $67.32

8 Ghost, Ghouls, And Gallows Walking Tour With Boat Ride

Offered by See Your City, Ghost, Ghouls, and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride that allows vacationers to explore the bustling London by night, when crowds thin out. Visitors will enjoy learning about the city's dark history and later enjoy a cruise on the iconic Thames River, which comes with breathtaking views of London’s amazing landmarks . This tour gives an insight into a unique side of the city, and everyone will have a good time as they pass through the dimly lit parks.

• Tour: Ghost, Ghouls, and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride
• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Cost: $32.67

7 Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

Want to explore Westminster for half a day? Well, Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry is one of the best walking tours to book in the area. It helps tourists discover some of London’s most famous buildings, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Downing Street, among others. The cost of the tour includes an entry ticket for Westminster Abbey, which means one doesn't have to stay in long queues to access Westminster Abbey. It comes with a local fun guide who narrates about the attractions and answers all queries that travelers may have concerning the points of interest. Book this tour to learn why Westminster is the place to see most of London’s landmarks .

• Tour: Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry
• Duration: Four hours
• Cost: From $77.11

Book this tour Related: Tower Bridge: Why It's The Most Iconic Landmark In London

6 Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio with Luxury Transport from London

Nestled on the outskirts of London, Warner Bros. Studio is one of the best sights to explore during a visit to the British capital. This walking tour is one of the best in the city and takes vacationers through the studio, allowing them to explore the Harry Potter film sets, props, costumes, and more. One will enjoy plenty of fun activities during the tour, taking Instagrammable pictures and exploring the gift shop. Please note that the food, drinks, and gratuities do not come with this tour package. Travelers will have to fund these from their pockets.

• Tour: Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio with Luxury Transport from London
• Duration: 7 hours
• Cost: From $143.76

5 London Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

London has an incredible culinary scene, and with plenty of options to choose from, ensuring one’s gastronomic experience of the city is the best it could be is definitely daunting. Fortunately, London Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours guarantees unforgettable memories of the city’s food scene. On this tour, visitors will get a chance to stroll through some of London’s best restaurants, especially around the Borough Market and London Bridge. Guests choosing this tour will enjoy personalized recommendations.

• Tour: London Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours
• Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Cost: From $11.09

4 British Museum Guided Tour

British Museum is the largest and one of the most iconic museums in the UK. British Museum Guided Tour lets visitors explore an incredible collection of impressive pieces from different parts of the world, including the Rosetta Stone, which is among the most celebrated works in the museum. One will also see relics from Ancient Egypt, Ancient Rome, and Ancient Greece. There is a local expert guide who takes travelers through the museum. Once the tour is done, vacationers are allowed to continue exploring the museum on their own.

• Tour: British Museum Guided Tour
• Duration: 2 hours
• Cost: $61.60

3 Jack the Ripper Tour with 'Ripper-Vision' in London

Jack the Ripper Tour with 'Ripper-Vision' in London is one of the best walking tours one can book in London. The tour takes vacationers back to the Victorian era, allowing them to learn the horrifying tales of how Jack the Ripper committed murders in the 1800s. The images of the period are projected on the buildings along the charming streets of Whitechapel to make the experience livelier. Want to experience London's mystery? The book Jack the Ripper tour with "Ripper-Vision" in London.

• Tour: Jack the Ripper Tour with “Ripper-Vision” in London
• Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Cost: $23.53

2 The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea

Want to enjoy some of the best high tea experiences in London? Book the Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea, which gives vacationers an incredible opportunity to really soak in the British Cultural experience (high tea). High tea originated from British, and booking this tour will let one enjoy the history of the beloved beverage, as they explore the gorgeous gardens that were made by Prince Albert. At the end of the tour, travelers can finally have a taste of high tea, which comes with sandwiches, scones, and taste cakes. Looking for what to do in London ? Get through the Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea tour.

• Tour: The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea
• Cost: $129.39

Book this tour Related: Best Hotels in London

1 Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour In London

Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour is one of the best walking tours in London for an unforgettable experience of the city. It walks vacationers through Central London at night, allowing them to explore plenty of spooky attractions. Visitors will stroll through the city’s dark streets and alleys as they listen to the haunting stories, which are part of the history of London. The tales include murder, crime, and mayhem stories. The tour passes through numerous landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, where the tour ends.

• Tour: Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour
• Cost: $26.14

What to see in London?

Interesting locations in London that you can visit for free, organized into free London walking tours

Do you need a private tour guide…?

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100 Reasons to Visit London – The Most Interesting City in The World!

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Trips from London:

Stonehenge & What To See Nearby (PHOTO GALLERY)

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The most popular city tours in London

Skip-the-line Westminster Abbey London Guided Tour

Tower of London Guided Tour, Crown Jewels, Tower Bridge

Stonehenge Private Trip from London by Car

British Museum and National Gallery Private Guided Tour

Walking tours & city tours.

London History and Highlights Private Walking Tour

Private Tour of London with Rooftop Garden & Tower of London

The Best Highlights of London Walking Tour & Boat Cruise

Top Churches of London Private Walking Tour with a Guide

Tasting tours.

Exclusive Whisky Tasting Session & Private Tour of London

Private Beer and Food Tasting Tour in London City Center

One day tours from london.

Cotswolds from London Private One-Day Tour by Car

Oxford Highlights Private Half-Day Tour from London by Car

Skip-the-line Jewish Museum in London Private Tour

Buckingham Palace and Royal History Private Tour

Wallace Collection and National Gallery Private Art Tour

National Gallery and British Museum with Private Art Guide

Top attractions.

London Car Tour, Tower, Westminster, St Paul, British Museum

London Changing of the Guards Ceremony Private Walking Tour

Fun activities.

Bike Tour of London Top Attractions with Private Guide

Skip-the-line Hampton Court Palace from London by Car

The most popular attractions in city london.

1. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic attractions in London. It was built in 1837 and is the London residence of the Royal Family ever since Queen Victoria came into power. Visitors can take tours of the palace and one of the most popular attractions here is the Changing of the Guard. Anytime of the year, crowds flock to Buckingham Palace at 11:30 am to see the procession take place. This display of precision marching is surely a treat to the eyes.

2. Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is a large Gothic church located to the west of the Palace of Westminster. This iconic site has been associated with Christianity since the 7th century and has been witness to many royal burials and coronations. Today, this place has gained immense popularity and is a preferred location for royal weddings.

3. Tower Bridge

In a city of several landmarks, London's Tower Bridge is the most recognizable. Visitors can explore the world’s most popular bridge and enjoy the beautiful views of the city and the river Thames. Or take a stroll across the glass floor at a height of over 40 metres and watch the hustle and bustle below.

4. St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is the largest and most famous of London's many churches. It's also one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the world. The megachurch sits atop the site of a Roman temple and is a rebuilt structure after the earlier one was destroyed in a fire. Today, the twin Baroque towers and magnificent 365-foot dome of St. Paul's represents the zenith of English architecture. While the view of the church is spectacular, the interior is also interesting. Take a walking tour and admire the amazing interiors plus the famous Whispering Gallery.

5. Tower of London

The impressive Tower of London has played many roles over the centuries. The World Heritage Site has been a prison, a private zoo, a treasure vault and now offers fascinating tours for visitors. Built way back in the 11th century the iconic tower tells the tales of British history. Visitors can explore the Tower of London and witness startling displays of royal armour, the crown jewels exhibition, plus the stories of ghastly executions that took place around the building. The tour isn’t complete without seeing a famous ‘Beefeater’.

6. The British Museum

The British Museum is one of the finest places to visit in London and is home to more than 13 million artifacts ranging from ancient world to the modern times. These exquisite objects are from all over the world and civilizations including Babylonia, Assyria, Europe, China, and more. Most visitors make a beeline for the museum's most famous exhibits: the Rosetta Stone, the controversial Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, the Egyptian mummies, the colossal bust of Ramesses II, and the spectacular collection of 4th-century Roman silver known as the Mildenhall Treasure.

7. London Eye

The London Eye is a rotating observation wheel which is 135 metres (443 feet) high and offers amazing 360-degree views over London. Catch a glimpse of the capital's most iconic landmarks and top attractions such as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and much more. The whole ride lasts for about 30 minutes and there's usually a long queue. However, if you're in a hurry, you can experience it before others with our London Eye: skip-the-line ticket.

8. National Gallery

It's impossible to visit London without catching a glimpse of the iconic National Gallery. Ranking among the top art museums in the world, it represents a complete survey of European painting from 1260 until 1920. One of the museum's best features is its collections of Dutch Masters and Italian Schools of the 15th and 16th centuries. Other highlights include - a cartoon of the Madonna and Child by Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli's Venus and Mars, Michelangelo's The Entombment, Van Gogh's Sunflowers, and The Water-Lily Pond by Monet.

9. Churchill War Rooms

Offering an unforgettable experience, the Churchill War Rooms is one of the most interesting historical sites in London. It’s a strange and frightening experience stepping into the rooms from where Winston Churchill was able to direct Britain’s defence of its homeland during the Second World War. Here you will see the tiny cubicle where Churchill slept and the improvised radio studio from where he broadcast his famous wartime speeches. The museum has done a great job in bringing the early 1940s to life and is a stark reminder of how close the United Kingdom came to tragedy.

10. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is the largest park in London and is a top attraction for visitors and locals alike. Open to the public since 1635, the park has been a common gathering place for picnics, events, or simply relaxing under the trees. It has an 18th century man-made lake called Serpentine, popular for boating or swimming in the summer. If you're traveling with kids, visit the London Zoo, it’s one of the most popular things to do for families visiting the city. Other attractions include Speaker’s Corner and Apsley House (former home of the first Duke of Wellington).

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Eurostar Trains From London Sell Three Times Faster Ahead of Paris Olympics 2024

As the countdown to the Paris Olympics 2024 reaches the 100-day mark, Eurostar, the international rail firm connecting the UK to continental Europe, anticipates its busiest-ever summer peak. Coinciding with the normal highest demand for travel, the Olympics are expected to draw many British families heading to France for the sporting extravaganza.

Upon the release of tickets for trains between London and Paris during the Olympic period, Eurostar witnessed an unprecedented surge in bookings, tripling the usual rate. Gwendoline Cazenave, chief executive of Eurostar, revealed to The Independent that sales for trains between the two cities skyrocketed threefold compared to typical sales openings.

“We have already sold more than 400,000 tickets. So, yes, it’s gonna be a busy period. The trains are getting full really quickly. But we still have places,” Cazenave stated. Despite the high demand, Eurostar assures travellers that there are still available seats for those planning to journey between London St Pancras International and Paris Gare du Nord. However, with the influx of visitors expected during the Olympics, prices have seen a significant increase. The cheapest return ticket for the duration of the Games stands at £318 in standard class, while shorter trips during the event can be secured for £158 return between 29 July and 1 August.

Ms Cazenave highlighted that passengers might even find themselves sharing the train with Olympic athletes, as Eurostar is expected to transport numerous competitors to Paris. “We have 140 trains to Paris on which we’ll have athletes, so our customers will be able to meet athletes,” she revealed. Additionally, Eurostar will host the opening ceremony before the official commencement in Paris.

With the Paris Olympics set to run from 26 July to 11 August, Eurostar’s preparations are underway to accommodate the surge in travellers, promising a seamless journey for spectators, athletes, and enthusiasts alike.

Antonio Donghi: Exhibition of the Legend’s Magic Realism Art

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

These are  Amazon’s best-selling  travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

• The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 –  Learn more here
• Fodor’s Paris 2024 –  Learn more here

Travel Gear

• Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack –  Learn more here
• Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage –  Learn more here
• Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle –  Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

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