funny london bus tours

18 unusual London tours: quirky & fun options

Want to get beyond the icons of London? Booking a place on one of these unusual London tours will make your trip to the UK capital memorable.

The UK capital is the type of place where you would never be bored, but you could go broke, because there are so many fun things to do in the city, particularly in the form on unusual London tours.

Yes, there is indeed a time-honoured tourist trail in London of go-to-a-museum-see-Tower-of-London-ride-the-Eye-go-to-West-End-show, etc. But there are plenty of other bizarre and whacky activities to do in the city – like eating in the dark or trying your hand at taxidermy .

Tours are an excellent way to see a city and London is no exception. Yet, rather that trailing around the same old spots, why not try something a little bit different? Particularly if you’re going on a date in London and want to do something a bit different.

I’ve rounded up some of the most unusual tours you can do in London. Get onto it!

This post forms part of my guide to London . Check out this 4 day itinerary for the city and read tips on how to not look like a tourist in London .

Disclosure: This post on unique London tours may contain affiliate links. If you click through for additional information or make a purchase, it may result in a small commission, at no extra cost to you. See my privacy policy if you require more information. Thank you for supporting a small content creator.

Unusual London tours by day

Here are some unusual tours in London, which will take you through the city during the daylight hours.

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1. Harry Potter Walking Tour

Potterheads unite! This free walking tour will take you through the finer sights of London, whilst pointing out locations from the Harry Potter films, such as the real Diagon Alley (the gorgeous Leadenhall Market) and the bridge blown up by Death Eaters. (If you’re a massive fan, you’ll probably want to check out the Warner Brother’s Harry Potter Studio Tour at some point as well).

Be sure to tip your guide at the end!

Plus, if you fancy going full Potter, you may consider spending the night in a Wizard themed hotel .

There are stacks of other Harry Potter tours available and if you’re after a paid option that’s a bit quirkier, why not take one which comes with a boat ride ?

2. Climb the Roof of the O2

The O2 in North Greenwich is a multi-purpose indoor arena.

A fun London date idea (if you’re both okay with heights) is to climb to the roof of the O2 , in order to take in 360° views of the city.

Yup, it’s not an event for the fainthearted, or those who suffer from vertigo. But, it’s sure to be memorable.

3. Street Art Tour

Street art isn’t in itself unusual, but London does have a lot of unique street art, particular in the city’s east.

In this tour , you’ll learn about the work of the artists in the city, while you explore one of London’s most interesting areas.

After the tour is complete, you’ll learn how to make some street art of your own.

4. Hidden London Tours

As far as unusual London tours go, these are some of my favourites, mostly due to the level of history that is involved.

London Transport have opened up some of the disused stations and tunnels across the city’s Underground network – from Euston’s Lost Tunnels, to Aldwych Station and the bunker where Winston Churchill took refuge during the height of the Blitz during WWII.

A word of warning – these tours sell out FAST. The website has the ticket release dates, so make your decision and pick a backup, just in case the tour you want sells out.

Discover what it’s like to tour Euston Station’s lost tunnels .

5. The London Loo Tour

This has to be one of the most unusual London tours… can I go so far as claiming perhaps in the world?

As the name suggests, here is an opportunity to tour some of London’s finest public facilities. The Loo Tours operate through Waterloo and Bloomsbury, with a third tour dedicated to the life of Thomas Crapper, a pioneer of bathroom fittings.

Now you know why toilets are often referred to as “crappers”. Are you as delighted as I am?

And why not wind up your day by going and drinking in a toilet bar? The Bermondsey Arts Club and Cocktail Bar is a personal favourite of mine.

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6. Tour Highgate Cemetery

Why not take a stroll through Highgate Cemetery ?

The graveyard is divided into two sections – the East and the West. The East is the final resting place of literary great George Eliot, the artist Patrick Caulfield and the cemetery’s most famous resident, Karl Marx (you know – the founding father of Communism).

The West can only be seen as part of a guided tour, which enable you to stroll up the Egyptian Avenue, through a pair of giant obelisks to the Circle of Lebanon cedar tree, which is older than the cemetery itself. Then there are the graves of course, such as the Terrace Catacombs and the very impressive Mausoleum of Julius Beer, built by a grieving father in homage to his daughter.

7. James Bond Walking Tour

His name is Bond… James Bond and he’s a British icon.

If you’re a fan of 007, or love exploring film locations on your travels, hop on a tour that will lead you around to various London icons that feature in the Bond films and immerse yourself in his world.

You’ll also visit real locations frequented by spies and discover secret bunkers within the city, amongst many other interesting historical facts.

8. Unseen Tours

Unseen Tours are tours with a philanthropic difference.

These tours are led by people who have experienced homelessness. 60% of each ticket price is paid to each guide.

So, go learn something new about a popular area of London and get to know someone who you may not have necessarily crossed paths with, in the process.

↠ RELATED: BEST DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON

9. Hidden City

Here’s a tour that will get your brain juices flowing while you see the city’s sights.

After registering a team with Hidden City , you’ll be sent a bunch of cryptic clues to your mobile phone. Each clue will lead you to a new location a short walk away.

Once you’ve solved the clue, you text your answer back, in order to receive the next clue. There are around 12-20 for each trail, which will take anywhere from 2-4 hours to solve (pending on your thinking abilities and level of jet lag at the time).

There is a range of tours available, from the Shoreditch street art themed, to the more niche Moriarty’s Game, where you’ll follow a Sherlock Homes inspired trail put together by his quick-thinking nemesis.

10. See Secret London by Bike

A city as big and as old as London has a lot of secrets.

From historical landmarks, to kooky characters, you’ll learn about them all on this 4 hour tour around the city … on a bicycle!

11. Deptford Creek Tour

Once a month the folk at the Creekside Discovery Centre will don their waterproofs and gumboots and take a group of willing participants to explore Deptford Creek during low tide .

The creek is home to a range of biodiversity (making it perfect for nature enthusiasts and budding biologists). As the trust declares, “You don’t have to leave London to have a wild day out.”

↠ RELATED: A WILD DAY OUT AT DEPTFORD CREEK

12. Medicine & Disease Tour

One of the more unusual London tours will take you back in time to London at its grimiest – a city where epidemics spread quickly .

You’ll pass by the oldest surviving medical society in England and see the site of Florence Nightingale’s first hospital and learn about how London grew from disease-ridden city, to the capital of a country which one of the greatest health systems in the world.

13. London by kayak

Keen to see London from a different angle and get an upper-body workout into your day? Why not book onto a kayak tour from Greenwich to Battersea (or vice versa)?

During this three-hour journey you’ll pass the city’s most notable landmarks, such as the Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s, the London Eye, Houses of Parliament… this list goes on!

All equipment is provided.

14. Afternoon Tea Tour

This one is rather self-designed, but if you like tea, cakes and crustless sandwiches, why not go on your very own tour of some of London’s finer establishments?!

I’ve done the hard yards for you – here’s some places where you can get a decent and inexpensive high tea .

15. Gin Distillery Tour

The British love their gin and Sipsmith Distillery (great name) offer up the opportunity three times a week to learn a little more about London’s gin-soaked past, while you sip on a few spirits and see the stills in motion.

Unusual London Tours By Night

Here are some tour options to liven up your night (or evening, in some cases).

16. Secret Indian Food Tour

Love Indian food? You’ll find some great restaurants in London, particularly in the East-End.

You’ll be introduced to some notable Indian restaurants, allowing yourself to eat as much naan, korma, biryani and the like as your can handle.

Start this unique London tour with an empty stomach.

17. London Literary Pub Crawl

This literary pub crawl describes itself as being “less of a traditional tour and more of a guided performance”.

On this tour you’ll be very much entertained as you’re brought to where literary greats such as Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf, T.S Eliot and George Orwell drank, ate and worked (and you too can grab a tipple in the taverns and pubs that so inspired them!).

18. Herstorical Tours

After an unusual walking tour in London which mixes drama and history, adds a dash of comedy and sprinkles over a bit of feminism to boot?

It’s a pretty well-known fact that women’s stories haven’t exactly had a place in the pages of history. The good old patriarchy has done a solid job of silencing women’s voices and stories, so that as Laurel Thatcher Ulrich once quipped ‘well-behaved women seldom make history’ – and even the more ‘wicked’ of women are lost to the sands of time.

Herstorical Tours are trying to right this wrong, in London at least. Their immersive theatre tours aim to uncover the city’s herstory, with a particular focus on the darker aspects of London’s past.

There’s currently two tours on offer – ‘Hex and the City’, which tell tales of London’s witchy past and ‘Harlots & Strumpets & Tarts, Oh My!’, which details the experiences of the West End’s sex workers in the 18th century.

Have you tried any of the above? Or are there any unusual London tours which you believe deserve a place on this list? If you’re after more inspiration in planning your trip to London, discover some things to do in south east London and what it’s like to take a mouse taxidermy class .

Where to stay in London

Opps, I pinned it again 📌

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How did I not know about the free HP walking tour?!?!?! Sounds worth the slog up to London for that alone! Couple it with the Murder Mile walk and it could just end up being the best day of my life.

My cousin is terrified of stuffed animals – totally gonna look into Taxidermy classes for her next birthday gift!

I feel the same way! You should do them next time you’re in London and report back. Although the train trip there may cost more than the tours themselves. Your cousin will hate it! Brilliant!

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The 9 best bus tours in London from 007 to fine dining

Anyone call for a bright red double-decker? See the capital in all its glory on one of these brilliant London bus tours

Whether you’re after a whirlwind tour of London’s attractions  for the first time or you want a little refresher of your favourite spots in London, we’ve rounded up the best London bus tours for you to take your pick. Our choice selection includes open-top classics that enable you to tick off your favourite landmarks one by one and some sinister tours that take place after dark... And don’t worry Harry Potter fans – we’ve included a London bus tour that takes in all the bespectacled boy wizard’s trips around the capital, from King’s Cross to Number 12 Grimmauld Place. 

Time Out tip:  Wherever you're headed while you're visiting London always have two things to hand: a brolly and Citymapper. 

Want more? 🚲Try a London bike tour instead 💂‍♀️Check out  the best London tours   🛏Stay in the best Airbnbs 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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Best London bus tours

1.  The Beatles evening tour

Trace the years from 1962 to 1970, when Beatlemania was at its peak, as you visit more than 35 Beatles-related landmarks on this evening tour of central London. You’ll also see some of the sites surrounding the band members’ individual music careers, while your expert local guide entertains you with Beatles history through music and film footage - don't worry, there are plenty of photo stops.

Time Out tip: If you're a Beatles fan, you might also enjoy Music of The Mind, an exhibition exploring the works of artist and activist Yoko Ono. It runs until 1st September. 

2.  Ghost bus tour

Set aside an hour of your time to get well and truly spooked. On this ghost bus tour you’ll cruise the city’s historic streets in an old Routemaster (painted black, of course), learning all about London’s gruesome past with a hefty helping on chilling tales and the most haunted sites in the capital.

Time Out tip: For even more gore, why not check out the Sweeny Todd experience at the London Dungeon ?

3.  Big Bus London hop-on hop-off tour

Hop on and off at London's best landmarks and attractions on this classic open-top tour bus. Soak up the sights with over 40 stops around the capital, listen to captivating commentary about your surroundings and experience it all at your own pace.

Time Out tip: With a city this widespread, you'll need some flexibility. For that, you can grab a ticket valid for up to three days, that way you can take your time getting to know London.

4.  Harry Potter bus tour

We may all be muggles, but London contains a wealth of fun Harry Potter experiences that are more than magical. Hop onboard this tour and you’ll journey from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross to Number 12 Grimmauld Place – a trip that takes three hours (aka just enough time to get  really  into the Potterverse). You’ll get to learn about locations that inspired JK Rowling’s awesome books and discover the tales behind some of wizarding wonders. And the best thing? You’ll also be shown some of the most famous Harry Potter film locations.

Time Out tip: Once you head back to Kings Cross, you grab a slice and enjoy the sun (providing there is any) at Happy Face Pizza. It's Neapolitan style, so you know it's good. 

5.  James Bond bus tour

Sure, James Bond drives fancy cars, like a classic Aston Martin, but can he fit all his mates in there for a jolly around London? Not likely. Especially if you want to throw a guide in for good measure, too. Luckily, you can fit all those people and more on this Bond bus tour. Delve into 007’s world of espionage and late-night wanderings to discover filming locations as well as sites frequented by Ian Fleming.

Time Out tip: Want even more British novelty? Just a 14-minute tube stop away you'll find Rules, London's oldest restaurant serving traditional British fare. It's pretty fancy, so Bond would approve.

6.  London at night tour

Giving lucky riders a taste of the lit-up London skyline, this 1.5-hour night tour hits all of the top tourist spots. Naturally, you’ll be travelling on-board a classic double-decker, and it’s the perfect way get views of famous attractions, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye after hours. Plus, learn fascinating facts about these legendary landmarks from your expert guide and hear insider tips on exciting places to visit in the capital at night.

Time Out tip : If you're looking for more lates the National Gallery is open until 9 pm every Friday, while Sir John Soane's Museum hosts a themed late each month.

7.  Open-top tour on a vintage bus

A vintage double-decker bus has been transformed into an open-top sightseeing experience. From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London via the Houses of Parliament, The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral, see London without any of those annoying panes of glass in the way. Aboard the bus, you'll also have screens with historical footage of London through the decades. 

Time Out tip: If you're feeling peckish after the tour, head to the vibrant, colourful Carnaby Street (a 15-minute stroll) for lots of great food options. 

8.  Bustronome London

A bus tour for gourmands. The Bustronome team combine fine views with fine dining, across a series of lunch, afternoon tea and dinner services. As you pass a sequence of landmarks including Nelson’s Column, the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s and the Tower of London, you’ll also enjoy a seasonal menu with an optional paired wine. Bon appetit!

Time Out tip: While this tour is on the pricier end of the scale, it makes a great gift. Not to mention you get to site-see while you dine.

9.  Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour

Fancy a quintessentially British afternoon tea on a classic London bus? Get involved on one of Golden Tours' afternoon tea buses  – as you sit down to a brew and a spread of sandwiches, cakes and pastries, you’ll be driven past Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Hyde Park, the Royal Albert Hall and all the usual suspects. Splendid!

Time Out tip: This tour is an excellent choice if you're looking for wholesome hen-do ideas. 

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14 Best Bus Tours in London for a Panoramic View of the City

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Those who are looking for some guidance on the best bus tours in London , this article has got you covered! Discover the incredible landmarks of  London from Palaces, shopping streets, museums, churches, parks to bridges!

Riding along on top of a double decker bus has to be one of the essential things to do in London for any visitor (or indeed local) looking to get a deeper insight into the rich history of the different London neighborhoods and stories behind the monuments!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• bus tours in London

1 – London: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing-Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 2856 reviews )

“Great tour, very nice and helpful people. You’ll pass all the sights, get off where you want and get on again when you’re done. You will receive a map on the bus and there are earphones available to listen to the recorded information that is available on the bus at each attraction.” Simone, Getyourguide

Experience the best of  City Sightseeing UK and see the major streets, landmarks and squares of London during a classic double decker bus ride! A ride on one of the best hop on hop off bus tours in London is definitely one of the essential activities to do when visiting the capital!

Stop off and explore different attractions and neighborhoods during your bus journey and enjoy the flexibility of taking your sightseeing at your own pace! Enjoy the panoramic views as you cruise across Westminster Bridge, you gaze up at the iconic Big Ben and you zoom past Hyde Park!

A fun day out discovering the main sights of London from the comfortable elevated position of our double decker. It was good to get free earphones to listen along to historic facts and curiosities about the various landmarks on the bus commentary and receive an included map to get our bearings!

• See price & reviews

2 – London: Guided Harry Potter Locations Sightseeing Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 439 reviews )

“Rory was amazing, he provided a lot of interesting facts not only from Harry Potter films but also from other movies and cultural facts. He made this tour very fun” Adriana, Getyourguide

Harry Potter fans won’t want to miss this  Brit Movie Tours spellbindingly magical Potter bus tour to visit a whole handful of London filming locations and places that inspired author J.K Rowling!

Get off the bus to take photos of some top locations up close such as the world famous Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station. Discover London locations that inspired Gringotts Bank, the Leaky Cauldron Pub and 12 Grimmauld Place!

Featuring a knowledgable and entertaining guide and a modern air-conditioned mini van, this definitely makes the shortlist as one of the best bus tours in London!

Funny and informative guide with a great range of Potter trivia, behind the scenes stories and interesting anecdotes. You get to see more of the sights than you would during a traditional walking tour. Good amount of free time at the various stops to stretch the legs and take photos!

• Harry Potter tours in London

3 – Luxury 6 Course Bus Dining Experience Through London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 134 reviews )

“Everything was absolutely perfect. The food was amazing and the crew so sweet. We went with friends and had a really special evening.” Rebecca, Viator

Treat yourself to a luxurious gourmet dining experience with a twist- a sightseeing bus trip around central London! With Bustronome London you can enjoy an unforgettable evening as you tuck into a refined 6-course meal whilst gazing at fabulous London landmarks.

Follow along to an interesting audio commentary to brush up on your historical and cultural London facts! Highlights including passing by the Royal Courts of Justice, London Bridge, the Shard, the Houses of Parliament and the bustling Piccadilly Square!

For those looking for an extra indulgence, opt for the wine pairing menu to savor some outstanding flavor combinations!

A very romantic choice for foodies looking to share a special moment! See the lights of London change from dusk to night and finish up seeing all the streets of London illuminated! The service was exceptional and the dishes were thoughtfully presented.

• dining experiences in London

4 – London: Comedy Horror Ghost Tour on a Bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1568 reviews )

“The tour guide really did a great job. It was very funny. We had a lot of fun. The route was also very well chosen, we passed sights and learned a lot about dark London. We can definitely recommend it” Jasmin, Getyourguide

For those who enjoy a chilling ghost story, join The Ghost Bus Tours on their spooky route around Londons main landmarks! Get ready for a creepy bus conductor and on-board actors who will bring this supernatural theatrical journey to life!

Learn about the ghoulish tales surrounding Westminster Abbey such as the Unknown Monk spectral figure lurking in the cloisters or pass by the Tower of London, famed to be one of the most haunted buildings in the whole of Britain where many former prisoners faced execution or lay rotting in the dungeons!

Feel the goosebumps developing as you discover a different side of London by night!

A memorable evening learning about the dark historic tales of London and iconic villainous figures such as Jack the Ripper. Good audience interaction with the guide and lots of entertaining jokes to keep the group engaged. The kids loved the atmospheric double decker bus!

• ghost tours in London

5 – London Christmas Lights Tour on Open-Top Bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 59 reviews )

“Absolutely phenomenal experience! We got there early to ensure we had a spot at the top of the bus to see the lights! Our guide and driver were amazing! The lights were stunning and everyone that was working was amazing!! Highly recommend this tour!” Heather, Viator

The Big Bus London Christmas lights extravaganza is one of the best bus tours in London for those who are in the mood for getting festive and witnessing all the twinkling and illuminated light decorations adorning major sites throughout the capital!

From the elevated position of a double decker, gaze down at the window displays of the London department stores as you sail down the bustling London shopping streets!

Look out for the shining bright lights of the London Eye, the impressive glow of the Houses of Parliament and the mighty Nelson’s Column and Lion statues of Trafalgar Square!

A magical tour of the illuminated city by night. Managed to get some atmospheric photos of the street decorations and beautiful Christmas trees. The guide kept us entertained during the ride with a range of historical and cultural facts about London. Definitely glad we brought hats and scarves for sitting up on deck.

• christmas lights bus tours in London

6 – London by Night Sightseeing Open Top Bus Tour with Audio Guide

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 457 reviews )

“The guide was amazing! The tour was a lot of fun. Even though traffic was really slow- the guide never ran out of interesting facts!” Jaycey, Viator

Join Golden tours to discover London’s top sights at night time from the comfort of a double decker bus! This informative bus journey around London’s historic gems is definitely one of the  best things to do in London at night . Put your feet up, relax, and enjoy some spectacular panoramas!

Pass by the famous Buckingham Palace (the official residence of the British monarch) and the majestically illuminated Tower Bridge, a triumph of Victorian engineering! Other highlights include cruising through the bustling Piccadilly Circus with its bright electronic billboards and neon advertisements and the Tower of London (home to the crown jewels!)

The guide brought the tour to life with a wide array of detailed historical curiosities and insights into London culture! Despite the traffic, we were kept fully entertained as I was hoping the tour would last longer! London is magical at night and it was a great introduction to the city on the first night of our trip!

• night bus tours in London

7 – Golden Tours: Afternoon Tea Bus with a Glass of Prosecco

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 762 reviews )

“the tour & afternoon was brilliant. Took a friend with me who had never seen the sights of London & she was thrilled with it all plus a beautiful afternoon tea.” Kathryn, Getyourguide

If you are looking to enjoy the delights of a quintessentially British afternoon tea, this is one of best bus tours in London! Join Golden tours as you take a panoramic tour around central London whilst tucking into some refined finger sandwiches, slices of cake and freshly baked scones and jam.

Add that element of finesse by accompanying your afternoon tea with a glass of Prosecco! The tour will pass by iconic London sights such as the magnificent St Pauls Cathedral, the famous London bridge and the historic Tower of London.

A lovely afternoon spent sipping tea and looking out of the bus windows at the sights of London. The servers were very helpful and made it an enjoyable experience. There was certainly a fun atmosphere on the bus.

8 – Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus in London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1276 reviews )

“Fabulous time on the bus. It was a lot of fun. The food was delicious with a wonderful assortment of savoury snacks and amazing cakes.” Tricia, Viator

Hop onboard Brigit’s Bakery bus for a classic British afternoon tea! Cruise by the impressive window displays of Harrods department stores and look out the window to spot the iconic Big Ben!

Expect plenty of sandwiches and cakes to snack on during the tour along with an audio commentary introducing the sights and a few background facts, providing an excellent overview of central London.

Gaze out across the vast Hyde Park and people-watch as the bus cruises along down the fancy streets of Mayfair! Look out for the impressive Nelson’s Column at Trafalgar Square and the colossal National Gallery!

A wide range of savory and sweet afternoon tea treats. The staff were friendly and the background music provided a convivial and relaxed ambiance. The audio commentary helped to orientate us as we navigated our way around the different sights. Highly recommended!

• Afternoon Tea Experiences in London

9 – London by Night Sightseeing Tour – Open top bus

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 771 reviews )

“We had an enjoyable evening on this tour. Our guide was funny and informative. It was a nice way to get an overview of the city. It was beautiful seeing everything lit up at night.” Lorraine, Viator

Travel around London by night in a double decker open top bus with Evan Evans tours . Discover the areas of Westminster and Knightsbridge and get to see some of London’s iconic landmarks illuminated such as the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey! Avoid day time traffic jams and take in the magical glow of the city lights after dark!

Admire the glittering lights of boats along the river Thames and the impressive Tower Bridge from the elevated position of the bus deck! Learn more about these signifiant sights thanks to a live guide who will talk you through a bit of history and important background facts!

A wonderful tour of London by night in the company of a knowledgable and comical guide. It was very special to see many of the main London attractions lit up and we managed to get some atmospheric photos. The bus tour definitely covered a lot of ground and different London neighborhoods.

10 – Golden Tours: London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 1947 reviews )

“It was great experience and interesting routes. We have completed all of them and also it can be used as transport within the city” Lev, Headout

Embark on a London sightseeing odyssey with  Golden Tours where you can opt for a day pass, a 48 hour or a 72 hour ticket depending on the length of your stay in London. Explore 4 different routes through different parts of the city with a total of 70 stops, learning more about the history thanks to a live guide or an engaging audio commentary.

Admire views of the splendid  River Thames and breathe in the crisp London morning air! This tour is perfect for those who don’t have a good grasp of English because the audio guides comes in 12 different languages. Make the most of the free wifi onboard to keep upto date as you cruise around the city in comfort!

A great way to cover large areas of London for those who want to go at their own pace and stop off en route to visit a handful of attractions. Booking is easy and quick. The live guide was interesting and informative and there was even a 3D treasure hunt game available for kids.

11 – James Bond Bus Tour of London

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 47 reviews )

“Ian was great and funny. He gave us a lot of information and “insights” from movies. The tour has a good dynamic and duable with kids.” Simona, Viator

Enter into the glamorous world of British agent Bond on the Brit Movie Tours  007 bus adventure! Get ready for lots of Bond related trivia, facts about the books and the chance to see many of the London filming locations featured in the films!

Pass by the MI6 headquarters and the Vauxhall Bridge along with plenty of other Bond related hidden places whilst listening to the entertaining commentary of your passionate 007 guide! Check out the river Thames that featured in so many Bond movies such as ‘Die another Day’ and ‘Skyfall.’

The tour caters to both adults and children, making it suitable for all ages!

A fun and smooth day out discovering the different sites of London that we could recognize in the Bond films! Lots of fun facts about the various Bond actors that kept us full engaged throughout the tour! Great dynamic pace but we didn’t feel like we were being rushed at all.

• James Bond Tours in London

12 – Big Bus tour of London

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 2 reviews )

Hop onboard the double deck bus of  Big Bus tours for a comprehensive overview of London’s major historic and iconic landmarks! Choose from three different bus routes and pass by the glorious  St Paul’s Cathedral , designed by the celebrated Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666 or take photos of the eerie Tower of London guarded by the traditional beefeaters!

Catch a glimpse of the majestic  London Eye soaring above the river Thames as you make your way through the capital! Thanks to a one, two or three day pass you can take the tour at your own pace and stop off at as many sites as you desire along the way. Every ticket also includes a free river cruise so you can see the bridges and architecture from another perspective!

Thanks to the Big Bus tour we really feel that we got a great overview of Londons highlights. The onboard commentary was insightful and entertaining and we loved stopping off at Oxford Street for a spot of shopping and Kensington Gardens for a tranquil walk around the gardens and palace. A great sightseeing option with a thrown in river cruise manages to tick all the boxes.

13 – Tootbus Hop On Hop Off Bus Pass in London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 171 reviews )

“A great way to see all the sights. Regular buses serviced all the popular destinations and more. Hopping on and off was easy and the best way to get as many attractions done as possible.” Anonymous, Klook

Spend the day exploring over 80 different stops on a wide variety of sightseeing bus routes offered by Tootbus . Thanks to the conveniently flexible ticket, you can hop off the bus to visit your preferred landmarks and then join the next bus to continue on your ride.

The routes cover all the essential London attractions such as the triumphal Marble Arch located on the edge of Hyde Park and the magnificent Westminster Bridge (the oldest surviving bridge across the River Thames in central London!)

Other highlights include the bright neon lights of Piccadilly, the fancy department stores of Knightsbridge, the iconic Big Ben and the majestic Houses of Parliament.

The buses were regular so there wasn’t much waiting around time. It was useful to follow all the routes of the Tootbus buses through the app. The tour was excellent for kids because on the main Yellow Route there is a specially designed children’s audio available in both English and French.

14 – BONUS TIP: NEW COMBO TOUR 48/72-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of London + London Eye Tickets

Hop on a flexible bus tour with a live English guide and an audio commentary available in 11 different languages! Explore 4 different bus routes with 60 different potential stops! Whether you fancy seeing the wax sculptures at Madame Tussauds, taking a picnic in Regents Park or visiting the historic pubs of Fleet Street this bus has stops throughout the city!

Bonus Tip: If you are looking to visit more attractions yet are keen to save money, combo tours are a great option! Combine a stunning Thames River Cruise or take an unforgettable ride on the London Eye  for some breathtaking 360 degree views! Reach heights of 135 meters and snap some incredible city skyline shots.

Definitely glad we got a combo ticket to include a trip up the London Eye! It was amazing to get a birds-eye view of Buckingham Palace, St. Pauls and the Houses of Parliament. Later during the day we passed by many of these sites in the bus and could brush up on the historical context.

How to book a bus tour in London?

We hope this article has inspired you to hop on board a bus tour to get a real overview of the main London sites! There are lots of companies offering London bus tour experiences along with many travel websites selling these tours online. Many sites offer changing discounts, so prices may vary from one website to another!

In order to ensure that you grab the best deal available, use the Tourscanner search engine to compare the various offers, check out the reviews and seize the best prices!

• compare bus tours in London

Fun London Tours

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Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London

Hidden London Walking Tour

Secret Walking Tour of Central London

Secret Old London Guided Walking Tour

Small Group Winston Churchill and London in WW2 Walking Tour

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

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

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

Bullshit London have been offering improbably fun comedy walking tours since 2013.

 **** COVID 19 Update ****

June 2021 - I'm delighted to be offering private tours for groups. Please get in touch if you want to book.

I am your Bullshit tour guide. Your rent-a-fool.

Here I am. Trying to look somewhat amusing.

My name is Reuben. I am Britain's honestist bullshitter.

Why would anyone come on this tour where you don't learn anything?

It's a great question. Here are my top 3 answers.

1) I am, or at least aim to be, funny.

Humour is subjective but  most of the people who have come have tended to laugh quite a lot.

I wouldn't have kept doing it this long if they didn't.

I might be stupid but I'm not stupid.

2) What's everyone's obsession with "the truth?"

I mean look around! The world is full of horror and suffering.

The lies I tell are certainly not all happy and pleasant, but even if they're violent and horrible 

at least you know they're not true. Honest Bullshit. That's what I offer. The comfort of escaping the real world of suffering into a fantasy world of suffering.

{Please note I may be lying right now and some of my lies may actually be true}

3) Walking around and looking at stuff is nice

It's just nice. It's nice to walk around. It's nice to look at stuff.

I pick my routes carefully to combine big landmarks with smaller, interesting, buildings or features.

Add some jokes, mix with good company and garnish with imaginatively deployed puns.

It's a recipe for a highly pleasant time.

If you'd like to book a tour or have any questions please click here to get in touch with me.

If you'd like to know more about the bullshit journey of the last seven years including information on some of the bespoke tours I've created and the book I made. Please click here .

"Puts the city back in mendacity.... the perfect way to learn less about the capital"

- matt brown,  the londonist, i am dedicated to giving you an honest good time in a dishonest fashion., i appreciate that this might cause some trust issues., if you doubt the calibre of my bullshit, please read some reviews ..

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Bus Tours In London

Almost as iconic as the city's own landmarks is the sight of a London tour bus. One of the best ways to the see the capital, the bus tour brings you superior views of the city skyline from a perspective you won't get on your everyday wanderings. Read our recommendations for the best bus tours in London, from where to see the bright lights by nights, to the quirkiest afternoon tea in the city.

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Think you know London? Think again, because Bustronome is taking you on a journey around the city like you've never seen before NOt only will you get 360-degree views atop an iconic double decker bus, but also a stunning feast as you take in the sights.

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Brigit's Afternoon Tea Ltd

Add a little luxury to your London bus tour aboard this cute and quirky afternoon tea bus. See the sights of the city while you chow down on finger sandwiches, cakes, macaroons and oodles of tea. Tottering past Buckingham Palace, Harrods, Notting Hill and loads of other tip top London destinations, it's one of the best bus tours in town.

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• 6 Best London sightseeing bus tours

An overview of the best London sightseeing bus tours in London by theme. Suitable for anyone from first-time visitors to Londoners alike, ranging from families to solo travellers!

Go straight to:

• Big Bus Tours: the classic hop-on hop-off London sightseeing bus tour
• Afternoon tea bus tour London with Brigit’s Bakery
• Gastronomy London bus tour
• London by night bus tour
• London ghost bus tour
• East London Gangster Bus Tour

While walking is my preferred way of exploring London, there’s certainly something to be said about seeing London from the comforts of a bus. 

I mean, those feet need a rest once in a while too, right? Especially if you’re visiting London with a jam-packed itinerary, rushing around from museum to theatre, exploring all must-see attractions and discovering the coolest neighbourhoods. 

Ease and comfort aside, what I appreciate most about sightseeing London by bus, is the fresh perspective it offers. Seated a few metres above road level, it allows you to see a completely different cityscape and witness the hustle and bustle of the city around you. 

And driving through the streets of the metropolis, coming at eye level with the building facades, you will even notice the intricate decorations, signs and curious sculptures you would normally miss by walking down the pavement.

That’s why I often tag along when friends and family visiting from overseas suggest a ride on a London tourist bus. It’s the perfect excuse for me to jump on a sightseeing bus which I think are suitable for tourists and locals alike. 

But like everything else in London, there are a lot of options to choose from so who do you pick? 

This blog post may contain affiliate links . This means that if you make a purchase through these links, I will receive a small commission in return. While these modest earnings help towards the costs of running this site, the best thing about it that it doesn’t cost you a penny more. Thanks for your support !

Top 6 London tourist bus tours

To help you on your way, I’ve selected my personal top 6 of best London sightseeing bus tours. To add some variety, I have chosen tours that all have a completely different theme. My selection ranges from your classic hop-on hop-off tourist bus tour to delightful afternoon tea tours and even East London gangster tours. 

Whether you’re visiting London for the first time, are a Londoner yourself, looking for a family-friendly bus tour or a fun London activity with your mates or besties, I’m sure you’ll find the perfect London bus tour here!

1. Big Bus Tours: the classic hop-on hop-off London sightseeing bus tour

With their iconic brown open-top double decker buses, Big Bus Tours truly is the number one London tourist bus!

Visiting all essential London highlights like Buckingham Palace,  Tower of London  and Covent Garden, this is the only bus tour in this list that allows their passengers to get on and off the bus as they wish. This way you can decide to get off at any landmark or attraction you’d like to visit or at least see and photograph from up close. 

The accompanying pre-recorded audio tours are available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish and passes are valid for 24 (Classic), 48 (Premium) or 72 (Premium Plus) hours. Within that time, you can get on and off at any of their 30+ bus stops along their two cleverly curated routes whenever you want! (During their operating hours that is of course.) 

While all three tickets also include a river cruise, you get wider options with the Premium and Premium Plus tickets. And as a great bonus, these latter two ticket types even include a 90-minute panoramic evening tour! 

Interested in just the evening tour without upgrading your Big Bus Tours ticket? Then head down to  tip number 4 in this list .

2. Afternoon tea bus tour London with Brigit’s Bakery

A sightseeing bus tour that combines a delicious  afternoon tea in London ? Count me in!

Honestly, can you think of anything better than exploring London from an iconic red double-decker bus whilst satisfying your appetite? I think not.

Serving mouth-watering homemade pastries and delightful sandwiches, the Brigit’s Bakery afternoon tea bus tour makes for a heavenly ride. 

The cute red and pink interior and cakes make it especially suitable for a romantic date or fun afternoon out with the girls. But it’s also a popular choice amongst families who can tick two things off their London bucket list with just one activity.

Depending on traffic, tours last approximately 90 minutes. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy your traditional afternoon tea and take in all classic London sights you cruise by.

3. Gastronomy London bus tour

Taking it up a notch now and going for a full 6-course luxury dinner on wheels, there’s the unique and excellent Bustronome gastronomy London bus tour.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bustronome London (@bustronomelondon)

During this 3-hour evening tour, you’ll be treated to gorgeous dishes all prepared and cooked fresh onboard. Using only seasonal products, the chef conjures up an exquisite British feast with a French twist. 

The atmospheric music adds to the restaurant ambiance, making it an original date night activity.

Seated in the glass-roofed upper deck, you’ll get to enjoy glorious panoramic views of London. And if you want to get in some tourist information, the discrete audio guides on each tables provides audio commentary in nine languages.

Regular bookings don’t include drinks, but you can opt for a wine pairing option when making your reservation. 

4. London by night bus tour

While London is a wonderful city in daytime, the twinkling lights accentuating the city’s majestic landmarks, do add a magical note to the experience. If you want to see London in a completely different light (pun intended), then I would certainly recommend a night bus tour.

With their dazzling signs coming to live at night, London’s iconic theatres and the Piccadilly Circus neon billboards make for fantastic sights. The 90-minute tour highlights 16 of London’s famous attractions, including  The London Eye ,  St Paul’s Cathedral  and Harrods. With more than 12,000 glimmering lights, this lavish department store is quite literally radiating at night.

The live commentary is provided in English. If you prefer to receive the tourist information in another language, then you can use the onboard audio guides. These are available in French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese (Mandarin) and Japanese.

5. London ghost bus tour

Hop onto the aptly called black-coloured Necrobus for a lively ghost-themed London bus tour. 

A lively ghost tour, I hear you think. Isn’t that a contradiction? 

Well no, because your special hosts are all classically trained actors who deliver their immersive tours with great wit and enthusiasm. 

Starting from Trafalgar Square, the 75-minute London ghost bus tour takes you along nine major London attractions such as Westminster Abbey,  The Shard  and of course the  Tower of London .

Famous for its ‘celebrity’ executions, the history of the Tower is filled with dark stories. Your guide might entertain you with the story of the young princes who mysteriously disappeared here. Or share the spine-chilling recount of the Yeoman Warden who saw an eerie apparition of a ‘white figure’ at exactly the same place of Anne Boleyn’s beheading.

Delivered in an engaging theatrical style and with a great dose of humour to counterbalance the dark tales of the night, the London ghost bus tour certainly is a unique and memorable way of seeing London!

Note that discounted children’s, students’ and senior tickers are also available.

If you’re interested in seeing a few sinister off-the-beaten track London landmarks, then head over to my  self-guided historical walk  for tips. And don’t forget to check out my post with tips for things to do around Tower of London !

6. East London Gangster Bus Tour

Do you also love those East End gangster movies? And ever wondered how much was true about films like  Legend  and  Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels ? Then what better way to get to the bottom of this under the guidance of those in the know?!

From the safe confines of the brilliantly called Naughty Bus, you will get to hear all the ins and outs by Micky ‘Goldtooth’, close friend of the famous gangster Kray twins. Told with such humour, I guarantee you will be roaring with laughter many times during this original London bus tour.

Starting in the East End, you will be driving down Bethnal Green Road. Long before I did my daily shopping here at Tesco’s and the local Indian supermarkets, this street was dominated by the Kray Twins. These identical twin brothers were both feared and loved by locals and celebrities such as actor Barbara Windsor.

When Reggie Kray died in 2000, Bethnal Green Road was chock-full of mourners and curious bystanders. Escorted by his smartly dressed and impressive looking friends and family, his coffin was brought to St Matthew’s church at the top of the street by horse and carriage. 

This happened not long after my husband had moved to Bethnal Green. Unaware of whose funeral he was walking by that day, he told me many years later he was struck by this memorable sight. It gave him an intimate look into the East London gangster stories he was so familiar with. You can see a clip of the impressive procession in this  BBC News item .

After this little personal anecdote, we go back to your East End gangster tour!

Some of the Bethnal Green highlights include the famous E Pellicci Cafe (which appeared in the film  Legend  starring Tom Hardy in a double role) and Valance Road, the twins’ birthplace. 

The first part of the tour ends at The Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel. You will stop for drinks and insider stories at this infamous and well chronicled East London haunt. 

For the second leg of the tour, you will cross the river Thames and finally finish at The Clink Prison near  London Bridge .

Bringing alive the images we know so well from for instance the Guy Ritchie movies, the closest we can get to the ‘Golden Days’ of the East End is a ride on the Naughty Bus.

With so many different London tourist bus tours ranging from gastronomical delights to ghosts to gangsters, which one sounds most fun to you? Let me know in a comment below! Thanks, Zarina xx

*Photo credit feature image: Daniel Tong / Unsplash

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5 thoughts on “ 6 Best London sightseeing bus tours ”

For a regular bus route that takes in a lot of sights I recommend sitting upstairs on the number 15 Westbound from Aldgate. Passes Tower Bridge, Monument, St Paul’s and Trafalgar Square.

Thanks for this tip! I agree that jumping on a regular London bus is also a great option for sightseeing or just observing daily life 🙂

I would opt for tours number 2 and 3, but that is probably because I have to gain some weight! 🙂 Thank you, so happy you are back with your Sunday posts!

I would love to join you for the afternoon tea bus tour as soon as I’m allowed to have treats again 🙂

I’ll put it on my bucket list! You never know, maybe one day I’ll be able to come over to GB and visit you!

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11 Best Ghost Tours in London in 2024 (spooky + funny!)

This post contains affiliate links for which I may make a small commission to help keep the site running. You will not be charged extra for these items had you not clicked the links. Thank you for your help to keep the site running!

Looking for a London tour that’s a little unorthodox?

Opt for one of these London ghost tours!

London is nearly 2,000 years old, so it’s only natural that the city is full of ghostly tales.

If “spooky” is your thing, there are plenty of flavors of haunting stories to sate your curiosity when you come to London!

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

The best haunted London tour is this Jack the Ripper walking tour.

Click here to check prices and availability.

From gruesome murders, to public executions, to the infamous Jack the Ripper, and, of course, plenty of ghost stories to haunt your dreams, see what awaits you on the darker side of London!

Too spooky for your tastes?

Traveling with young ones or sensitive souls?

Have a laugh instead on a comedy ghost tour!

Whatever the case, you’re sure to find a thrill suitable for all (or most) travelers somewhere on this list of the 11 best ghost tours in London, including haunted London tours, scary tours in London, and London ghost walking tours.

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 Haunted Tours in London

1. the jack the ripper walking tour in london : spooky tours in london.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 1,300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Knowledgeable guide
• Archival police and press reports
• Archival photos of historical locations
• Link to free ebook

While there may not be any ghosts on this particular tour , the stories of this infamous London serial killer will chill you to the bone!

Follow your guide around the historic part of London where Jack the Ripper took his victims’ lives all the way back in 1888.

You’ll see archival photos depicting what the town looked like at the time, as well as police and press reports of the horrendous murders.

Take an evening walk through parts of London unpopulated by car and bus traffic , where the cobblestone streets will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Curious about the gritty details?

Ask your expert guide all about the murders!

And, if the tour leaves you hungry for even more knowledge about Jack the Ripper, you’ll be thrilled to find that your ticket includes a link to a free ebook!

2. Jack the Ripper Tour with ‘Ripper-Vision’ in London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 2,600+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 45 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Expert guide on this haunted walk in London
• Fascinating RIPPER-VISION™ projections
• Wheelchair & stroller accessible
• Near public transportation

For an even more immersive experience, take this Jack the Ripper tour and be awed by RIPPER-VISION™!

You’ll meet your guide outside of the Whitechapel Art Gallery, just a short walk from the Aldgate East Underground station.

From there, you’ll wander the dark streets where Jack the Ripper’s victims lived… and died.

You’ll learn the gruesome details of London’s most infamous serial killer , all while maintaining a manner of respect for the unfortunate victims.

RIPPER-VISION™ projections will light up the building walls with images and clips that truly bring you back to Victorian London.

Worried about seeing something too disturbing?

Your guide will warn you of any upcoming photos that may be sensitive to certain viewers, so you can always look away if you’re feeling uncomfortable!

Note: the grisly nature of the Jack the Ripper murders make this a tour best suited for older audiences .

3. The London Dungeon : London ghost tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.4 out of 5 Stars, 1,160+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entry to The London Dungeon
• History presented in a theatrical fashion
• Two thrilling rides and 14 interactive shows
• Option to upgrade to include a cocktail from the tavern

Take a self-guided tour of The London Dungeon , one of the most popular attractions in the city!

Over 1,000 years of history await you at this immersive museum, where actors bring to life the chilling stories of Henry VIII , the Great Fire of London, the Black Plague, and more!

You’ll start by descending into the Dungeon on a medieval lift, then take a thrilling boat ride to escape the wrath of Henry VIII.

From there, you’ll encounter a gruesome torture chamber, an infamous witch trial, Sweeney Todd, and many more haunting London figures and stories both real and fictional.

You’ll be looking over your shoulder at every corner in The Whitechapel Labyrinth, where Jack the Ripper is never too far away .

Your harrowing journey will conclude with a gut-churning drop ride at the Newgate Gallows, where you’ll discover what the “long drop” feels like!

Upgrade your admission to include a drink at the Dungeon Tavern , which is modelled to look like a Victorian pub from 1896!

4. Comedy Horror Ghost Tour on a Bus : ghost bus tour London

⭐️  RATING:  4.3 out of 5 Stars, 1,300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Ride on the Ghost Bus on this ghost tour London bus
• Live actors and special effects
• Guide who balances “creepy” with comedy
• Unique sightseeing and historical tales

If all this talk of hauntings and murders has you feeling a little uneasy, opt for a lighthearted Comedy Horror Ghost Tour on a Bus !

Climb aboard the historic Ghost Bus , a 1960s Routemaster bus that’s been given a gothic makeover – this is one of the best London ghost tours.

You’ll know you’re in the right place when you spot the bus’s black exterior, and the red velvet curtains and antique lamps that decorate the inside certainly add to the theatrical experience!

As you pass by iconic London attractions like The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, and more, your guide will tell you all about the haunted history of the city.

You’ll board just outside The Grand hotel , a short walk from Trafalgar Square, and Embankment Station is less than five minutes away.

Seats are not reserved, so be sure to get there 20 minutes before the tour begins so you’ll have the first choice of seating!

5. The Cloak and Dagger Tour : ghost tours London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 620+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entry to the 17th-century George Inn
• Downloadable mobile tickets for easy entry
• Conveniently located near public transportation
• Little-known historical facts

Discover the dark side of London on The Cloak and Dagger Tour !

Your tour begins and ends at The George Inn, a 17th-century historic hotel just a short walk away from the London Bridge Underground Station.

You’re in for an exhilarating evening stroll as you learn the grisly details of London’s past that often remain unknown by others.

As you approach the London Bridge, you’ll find out what life was like for people who lived near the River Thames in days passed.

Visit the famous and eclectic Borough Market , which is said to have existed for over a millennium, and discover the history that lies beneath your feet.

You’ll also pass by the Clink Prison Museum and other notable sites before returning to The George Inn to watch a re-enactment of a murder play out in one of the historic rooms!

Due to the nature of the tour, it is not recommended for children under the age of 12.

6. Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour in London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 380+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Knowledgeable local guide on this ghost walking tour in London
• Spooky evening walking tour
• Start and end near public transportation
• Many stunning (and eerie!) photo ops

Looking for spooky things to do in central London at night?

Take the Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour !

This evening tour will enlighten you on the harrowing tales of hauntings that have been said to occur in London after dark.

You’ll meet in front of All Hallows by the Tower , the oldest church in London, which dates all the way back to the year 675!

From there, your guide will lead you through the eerie alleyways and dark streets of central London , filling your mind with terrifying tales of the ghosts and ghouls that haunt them.

You’ll see plenty of iconic London landmarks during your journey, including St Paul’s Cathedral, where the tour ends.

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for apparitions as you traverse the most haunted parts of the city…

Will you be lucky enough to capture a ghostly image on camera?

7. Ghost, Ghouls and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 420+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Boat ride on the River Thames
• Professional, informative guide
• Combination walking tour and boat ride
• Located near public transportation

Eager to go on a spooky London tour, but looking for one that will let you rest your legs for a while in the midst of all that walking?

Take the Ghost, Ghouls and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride !

This unique tour will take you on a walking journey around London’s royal parks , delving into the city’s haunted history, and includes a boat ride on the River Thames!

You’ll meet your guide by the Statue of Goddess Diana in Green Park, conveniently located near Green Park Station.

Discover what London landmarks and historic sites are known to be the most haunted, as you pass by Berkeley Square, St James’s Park , and other iconic locations!

You’ll be happy to prop your feet up for a while and enjoy an evening cruise on the Thames – this is the perfect time to take some beautiful photos!

Your tour ends near Tower Hill Station, across from the Tower of London.

8. Serial Killers: The Blood and Tears Walk : haunted tours in London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Convenient start and end near public transportation
• Visit an historic pub with a dark past on this haunted London pub tour
• Passionate, knowledgeable guide
• Option to upgrade to receive a copy of guide’s informative book

Looking for a tour on the darkest parts of London’s history?

Brave the Blood and Tears Walk !

This 2-hour walking tour is led by a published author who knows all about the most disturbing serial killers of London, like the infamous Jack the Ripper.

You’ll meet your guide across from Barbican Station, then embark on a harrowing journey through the locations of London’s most gruesome murders on this ghost walk London.

Besides serial killers, this tour also explores the executions, grave-robberies , and other disturbing events that have haunted the streets of London!

Your tour concludes at Princess Louise Pub , where even more grisly details await concerning one last tale of another London serial killer.

Upgrade your ticket to include a copy of the guide’s best-selling book, Bloody London , which he’ll sign for you at the end of the tour!

Due to the disturbing tales explored during this tour, it is age restricted to guests 12 and up.

9. London Ghost and Infamous Murders Walking Tour : ghost tours in London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 90+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Visit a haunted pub
• Visit haunted West End theatres
• Small tour group (up to 8 people)
• Convenient start and end at Underground stations

Dying to explore the most haunted parts of London?

Take the London Ghost and Infamous Murders Walking Tour !

You’ll meet your guide in the evening at Tottenham Court Road Station, and embark on a fascinating 2-hour journey through West London.

Ghosts, murders, and mysteries abound on this haunting tour!

You’ll visit the “bucket of blood” pub , and learn of the chilling tale of a murdered smuggler that gave the place its disturbing name!

Discover what makes the West End theatres some of the most haunted locations in London, and learn about a cursed heirloom that’s been said to strangle its victims!

Tales of murders will have your heart pounding in your chest as you wind through the historic alleyways of Victorian London, and you’ll want to take photos of the intricate architecture along the way.

Your tour will end at Temple Station, right across from the Thames and just a short walk from The Strand.

10. Highgate Cemetery Guided Tours

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 90+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entry to Highgate Cemetery East on this Highgate cemetery ghost tour
• Entry to Highgate Cemetery West
• Knowledgeable tour guide
• Comfortably-sized group (up to 16 people)

One of the most beautiful cemeteries in London is the Highgate Cemetery , which is open to the public and home to many famous graves.

You’ll definitely want to book a guided tour so you won’t miss out on one of the coolest parts of the cemetery – the catacombs!

Entry to the Terrace Catacombs is only available through a guided tour , and at only £5 more than a self-guided tour, it’s well worth it!

Your tour guide will lead you through the West cemetery, enlightening you on the history of the graveyard and those who have been laid to rest there.

When you’ve finished your tour, you’ll have the rest of the day to enjoy admission to both sides of the cemetery at your own pace!

Just a short walk away is The Flask , a popular historic pub said to be haunted by two distinct ghosts.

Stop by for a drink and a bite to eat, and keep your eye out for visitors from the beyond!

11. London Bridge Ghost Walking Tour

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

• 1.5 hour walking tour of the London Bridge area
• Engaging, professional guide
• Stroller accessible

Ghosts aren’t all that’s in store for you on this bone-chilling London Bridge Ghost Walking Tour!

Learn of the hauntings as well as many other disturbing tales that have occurred in the area surrounding London’s most iconic bridge.

You’ll meet your guide outside the Bunch of Grapes pub , just a short walk from London Bridge Station.

Discover the history of the bridge itself, then venture into darker waters as your guide tells of the frightful life (and death!) of London’s past citizens.

What ghosts lurk around the Southwark Cathedral ?

What sort of people are buried at the Crossbones Graveyard?

Which pub does Miss Murray, a lingering spirit, like to haunt?

Find out the answers to all these questions and more on this fascinating tour!

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 London Museum Tours
• 3 Best Morse Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best London Beatles Tours
• 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 London Bike Tours
• 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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Cafes and Getaways

10 best london bus tours for the ultimate sightseeing experience.

Last updated on September 9th, 2023

London , one of the most visited cities in the world, is steeped in history, iconic landmarks, and diverse culture. Whether you are visiting for a short time or would love to see the best of London on a return trip, bus tours are a great way to take in the UK capital’s charm.

Since bus tours in London are one of the most iconic things to do, there are dozens of companies and varieties to choose from. You can find pretty much any kind of tour from leisurely afternoon tea to spooky encounters. And best of all, for those who already have the London Pass, you can experience some of these for free!  

Not sure which is the best fit for you? I’ve curated a list of the 10 best London Bus Tours that are sure to offer a memorable experience. In addition, check out some other popular guided tours of London!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Table of Contents

• 1 What is a London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour?
• 2.1 Big Bus Tours – Best London Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tours
• 2.2 TootBus Tour – Best London Bus Tours for Families
• 2.3 Golden Tours – Best Overall Variety of Experiences
• 3.1 Gastronomy Bus Tour
• 3.2 London Evening Tour
• 3.3 Day Tours from London by Bus
• 3.4 Harry Potter Bus Tour
• 3.5 Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
• 3.6 Spooky London Tour
• 3.7 Shakespeare Themed Tour
• 4.1 Thames River Cruises
• 4.2 Walking Tours
• 5 London Bus Tours FAQs
• 6 Conclusion
• 7 Pin it for Later

What is a London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour?

A hop-on-hop-off bus tour allows you the flexibility to stop at multiple locations. Unlike most tours which require you to stay on the entire time, you are free to get off and back on when and where you choose. In short, these bus tours are similar to taking an ordinary bus, but with the addition of live commentary from knowledgeable guides along the way. 

For those looking for a brief overview of each attraction, a bus tour is a terrific option. And some include additional perks like a free walking tour or Thames River Cruise. Although they do not include admission to the sites themselves, bus tours are a great way to see several iconic landmarks in a short period. And if the weather is not ideal, you can still explore London at your own pace. Plus, after several days of walking around London, it is nice to be able to get off your feet.

Best London Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour Companies

Big bus tours – best london hop-on-hop-off bus tours.

Recommended Tour: Essential Ticket

Big Bus is one of the most popular when it comes to the best hop-on-hop-off London bus tours. They allow the flexibility to get off and on as you choose and offer routes that pass by London’s most famous attractions. From the London Eye to St. Paul’s Cathedral, you can knock off the city’s main attractions in just a couple of hours. 

To make your experience run as smoothly as possible, they have a downloadable sightseeing app. View information about the attractions on your route, check in on upcoming buses, and search for nearby restaurants and landmarks all from your phone. 

Big Bus Tours’ most popular Essential Ticket allows access to their buses for 48 hours and comes with additional perks. Purchasing this hop-on-hop-off bus ticket gives you free access to three guided walking tours, and river cruise.

Book a Big Bus Tour in London

TootBus Tour – Best London Bus Tours for Families

Recommended Tour: London Discovery

With the help of their trusty app, TOOTBus Tours has some of the most diverse selection of itineraries around. In total, TootBus has seven different tours available including the Bar Bus, London by Night, and private bus hire. 

The company has developed its tours with families in mind. Their hop-on-hop-off tour includes both adult and kid commentary. TootBus offers specialized kid’s tours that are created to be engaging and informative. As the tour is 45 minutes in length, it is the perfect length of time for families with small children. 

Looking for a 1-3 day bus tour? The most popular Discovery Tour allows you the flexibility of three different routes and the ability to get on and off as you choose. One of the aspects that puts this tour ahead of the competition is the late hours available. The yellow routes run until 8:00 pm, unlike other companies that stop operations much earlier.

Book a TootBus Tour in London

Golden Tours – Best Overall Variety of Experiences

Recommend Tour: Hop-on-Hop-Off Tour

Gold Tours offers three different routes as well as theme experiences and walking tours of London. They also provide family packages which can save you a lot of money if you have a family of four or more. 

Golden Tours provides 24 to 72-hour ticket options with the ability to cancel if needed. Your guide will give you interesting facts along the way, but you can also use a free audio guide if you prefer listening at your own pace. All tickets come with a free walking tour, but you can choose to include a Thames River cruise for a small additional fee. 

Looking for something other than a hop-on-hop-off tour? Golden Tours has a plethora of non-stop tours both in and out of London. One of the most popular non-stop tours is the two-hour Open Top Bus Tour . You will visit many of the same attractions but with the option of going during the day or at night.

Book a Golden Tours Tour in London

Best Guided London Bus Tours

Gastronomy bus tour.

Recommended Tour: BUSTRONOME 6-Course Luxury Dinner Tour

BUSTRONOME has revolutionized the tour scene. This unique experience combines the love of cuisine with a tour of London’s iconic sites. Guests are served a 6-course meal (4-courses for lunch) inspired by traditional French and English dishes. All while exploring the city on a luxury, glass-roofed bus. And what makes this culinary experience remarkable is that all dishes are cooked fresh onboard.

Guests can choose from several menus and options, including an upgraded food and wine pairing. Once onboard, you will be wined and dined, while you sit back, listen to some ambient music, and enjoy the city views from the panoramic terrace. 

• Ticket Prices: Adult £70.00 – £120.00; Child: £40.00 – £50.00
• Commentary: Audio Guide
• Tour Duration: 2.5 hours
• Dates and Times: 12:00 pm or 7:00 pm dining options available daily
• Languages Offered: English and French

London Evening Tour

Recommended Tour: London By Night Bus Tour . 

Although London is beautiful by day, it comes alive at night. So what better way to see some of London’s top attractions than when they are lit up? Pass by the Tower of London, Harrods, Trafalgar Square, and other favorite attractions on the Londu by Night Bus Tour. 

You will also get a chance to experience the neon lights of Piccadilly Circus, all from the top of an open-roof bus. And with the help of your guide, you will learn all about these fascinating places in a fun and lively setting.

• Ticket Prices: Adult £29.00, Child £16.00, Family £78.00
• Commentary: Live guide
• Tour Duration: 90 minutes
• Dates and Times: Daily from 7:30 pm – 9:20 pm (10:15 pm in the summer)
• Languages Offered: English (Audio guides in 7 languages)

Day Tours from London by Bus

Recommend Tour: Evan Evans Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath Full-Day Tour

Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center? Then take a guided bus tour to the countryside! There are over 40 different tour options available that will take you as far as Paris. Other popular sites include Blenheim Palace, Oxford , Cotswolds, and the filming location for Downton Abbey.

One of Evan Evans’s popular tours offers a scenic route to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath. The full-day tour from London includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance tickets to various attractions (optional). 

Your experience will begin with a tour of Windsor Castle, which is included in the price of your tour. You can explore on your own, with the guidance of your guide. Your second stop will be the city of Bath. Your tour will take you past several architectural sights before stopping at the Roman Baths to explore and have time on your own for lunch in the city. From there, hop back on the bus to Stonehenge before heading back to London. 

• Ticket Prices: £95 – £142
• Tour Duration: 11.5 hours
• Languages Offered: English

Harry Potter Bus Tour

Recommend Tour: Brit Movie Tours

You can’t talk about London without including a Harry Potter tour. London is filled with iconic places that were used as filming locations in the movies. So what better way to explore the magical world of Harry Potter than on an iconic double-decker bus? 

This themed bus tour allows you to see the movie’s key locations with the help of a guide. And unlike many similar tours, you have the opportunity to get off the bus, take photos, and explore along the way. 

Find the entrance to the Ministry of Magic, see Gringotts and 12 Grimmauld Place, and take a photo in front of Platform 9 ¾. In addition to visiting all the city’s filming locations, you will still have the opportunity to see London’s most famous landmarks. 

• Ticket Prices: Adult £32.50, Child £21.00
• Tour Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Recommended Tour: Brigit’s Bakery Classic Afternoon Tea Tour

Two of the most iconic things to do in London are having afternoon tea and riding a double-decker bus. So, why not do both at the same time? For a leisurely and elegant London sightseeing experience, join a London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour. 

The best London bus afternoon tea is run by Brigit’s Bakery. Travel in style on a vintage Routemaster bus while indulging in some traditional English pastries. Better yet, book the bus for an afternoon around London. The company offers private hire events that can be personalized to meet your needs. 

Keep track of their upcoming events on the company’s website. In addition to the classic afternoon tea package, you can partake in themed experiences catered to adults and children.  

• Ticket Prices: Adult £45.00, Child £35.00
• Commentary: Pre-recorded 
• Tour Duration: 90 minutes. 
• Dates and Times: Daily from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Spooky London Tour

Recommended Tour: The Ghost Bus Tour

Looking for a unique and spooky bus tour through London? Hop on the legendary Necrobus and explore the dark and haunting history of the city. Discover the gruesome secrets of London with the help of actors who bring the sites to life.

Your conductor offers live commentary along the way as you dive into London’s darker history. In addition to the usual historical facts of the landmarks you pass, your guide with throw in some of the darker and more gruesome stories you would miss on just any other guided bus tour. 

• Ticket Prices: Adult £25.00, Child £17.00, Family 63.00
• Tour Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes. 
• Dates and Times: Daily from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Shakespeare Themed Tour

Recommended Tour: Golden Tours Day Trip to Stratford and Cotswolds

For you literary lovers, experience the life of the Elizabethan area with this spectacular Shakespeare bus tour. Your tour guides will take you to the key locations connected to his life including his birthplace at Stratford-upon-Avon.

Some of the important stops include the childhood home of Shakespeare as well as the home of his wife, Anne Hathaway. Along the way, your guide will deliver some captivating stories about the writer and the period that inspired his plays. 

The second half of the day will be spent in two of Cotswold’s prettiest villages. Explore on your own, grab lunch, and take advantage of the breathtaking photo opportunities before heading back to London. 

• Ticket Prices: Adult £126.0, Child £115.00, Family £475.00
• Commentary: Live Guide
• Tour Duration: 10 hours

Additional Guided Tours in London

Thames river cruises.

The Thames River Sightseeing Company specializes in river tours and has several experiences available for sightseers. One of the most popular tours is from Westminster to Greenwich. You can purchase a one-way or round-trip ticket for as little as £15 for adults. Here are some other popular river cruises:

• Speed Boat Tour (Highly Rated) 
• River Thames Dinner Cruise 
• Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise  
• Ghost Walk and River Thames Boat Ride  

Walking Tours

Walking tours are another great way to learn about the city’s history and culture. Many also offer entry into London’s attractions which guided bus tours do not. Walking tours give you an indepth account of London’s history through the expert knowledge of a guide. Here are some top-rated London walking tours:

• Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour
• London: Historical Pub Walking Tour
• Shakespeare Private Guided Tour
• Kensington Palace Gardens Tour with Royal High Tea
• Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill’s War Rooms
• Secret British Food Tour

London Bus Tours FAQs

Are Big Bus Tours in London worth it?

There is no straight answer to this because it all depends on your sightseeing goals. If you want to see the main sites in a short amount of time or do not want to walk everywhere, then London bus tours are a great way to do that.

They can also be a great budget option for learning about the city’s landmarks without paying for the hefty admission tickets. 

On the flip side, bus tours mean getting stuck in London traffic (there’s lots!) and only just skimming the historical surface of the landmarks you pass. 

How long does a London bus tour take?

Each bus tour has its route and number of stops. Tours can be as short as 1 hour and up to around 3 depending on which you choose. On average though, you can expect to spend an hour and a half on a tour. But if you join a hop-on-hop-off bus tour you can simply jump from one location to the next if you want. 

How much does a bus tour cost in London?

Prices range depending on the company you choose, but you can expect to spend anywhere between £33-50 per ticket. Purchasing a London Pass can be a great money-saving option if you plan on visiting a large number of attractions. Hop-on-hop-off bus tours are included in these passes for the duration of your purchase. 

How do you pay for a bus tour?

You will purchase tickets online unless you plan on joining a hop-on-hop-off London bus tour. You can save some money buying them in advance, and guarantee yourself a seat. Hop-on-hop-off London bus tours give you a little more flexibility by being able to pay on the bus if you’d prefer.

London’s bus tours offer a variety of themes and experiences for all types of interests. This list of the bestselling London Bus Tours is a great place to start for a taste of the city. If you’ve had the chance to joina fun and unique tour of London, I’d live to hear about it! Leave a comment below about your experience. 

Enjoyed this post? Here are some other London guides!  

• Simple Tips for Visiting London on a Budget
• 25 Best Things to Do in London
• Ultimate London to Oxford Day Trip Itinerary
• 100+ London Captions to Inspire You

Travel Planning Resources

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT |  Skyscanner is the top search engine for finding and booking flights. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices. 

VIEW ACCOMMODATIONS |  For booking hotels and vacation rentals Booking.com is a top resource . They offer some of the cheapest rates and different payment options.

PLAN TRANSPORTATION

• Rental Car: Discover Cars is my go-to site when booking rentals. They work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs and budget.
• Trains: Trainline is the best choice if you are traveling throughout England. They work with 270 companies for 45 countries in Europe and the UK. 
• Bus: Omio is an easy website to use for booking train and bus tickets. Similar to Skyscanner, the website looks at hundreds of transport companies to get you the best deals. 

SCHEDULE YOUR TOURS | There are many top companies available in Europe. Get Your Guide is one of the best sites for tours, excursions, and activities. Viator is another terrific website for all types of experiences. 

GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | Having travel insurance is always a good idea. World Nomads is one of the top travel insurance companies.  It will cover you if you must cancel your trip or if something unexpected happens. 

Check out the resource page for additional travel planning resources.

Pin it for Later

Welcome to Cafes and Getaways. I’ll be sharing details on my latest travel destinations, as well as tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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Last Updated on September 9, 2023 by Cafes and Getaways

London Bus Tour

Let the city simply take you by surprise.

On Sunday 21st April, the London Marathon will cause unavoidable disruptions to our tour. Buses will be on diversions and we will not be able to serve some stops.  See details

Hop-on hop-off: explore London at your own pace in 1, 2 or 3 days

Must See London

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + cruise

• 1, 2 or 3 days
• 3 bus routes
• 3 walking tours
• River cruise

London Discovery

Hop-on hop-off bus tour + walking tours

London themed bus tours: discover the city from a different angle

London Kids Tour

Non-stop live guided bus tour

• Live guided in English
• Fun and educational

London by Night

Non-stop evening bus tour

• Adult & kids commentary

Unique rooftop on wheels

• Catchy playlist
• Drinks available on board

London Packages: combine our hop-on hop-off visit with an attraction or a night tour

London Discovery + London By Night

Daytime hop-on hop-off bus tour + evening bus tour

• 3 daytime bus routes
• 1 night tour

Wi-Fi on board

Audioguide in 10 languages

Family Pass

Kids special commentary

Walking tours includded

Fully accessible

15 Lovely London Tours for Families Worth Booking

Posted on Last updated: March 18, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » England » 15 Lovely London Tours for Families Worth Booking

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Planning a trip to London with kids and looking for family-friendly tours? Keep scrolling to check out the coolest London tours for families that we’ve done and loved!

This list of kid-friendly london tours for families was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Planning a trip to London with your family?

Check out our list of the best kid-friendly tours in London! You won’t find this information anywhere else.

We have personally tried all of these tours (or our friends have) and recommend them wholeheartedly. These are the best things to do for kids in London. Your children will love learning about London while having fun too!

Book one (or more) of these London family tours today and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of London blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting London with kids.

Popular London Tours/Activities

• London Eye (this is a relaxing adventure where you can see a birdseye view of London)
• Double-Decker Bus Tour (this one has a 2-hour guided tour option)
• Harry Potter Walking Tour (this one is especially for families)
• WB Studios in London (this is a MUST-DO for any Harry Potter fan)
• Afternoon Tea (this one takes place on a vintage double-decker bus)
• Flytographer Photo Shoot (this is an easy and affordable London photography option)

Kid-Friendly London Hotels

• Crowne Plaza London Kings Cross (this is right by Kings Cross Station, which is really convenient)
• The Clermont London (this is an easy walk to the London Eye and Buckingham Palace)
• Georgian House Hotel (this is perfect for Harry Potter fans)

15 Amazing London Tours for Kids Worth Booking

Our family loves spending time in London. We most recently went on a London family vacation in June 2022 with our 8-year-old and 5-year-old. We love doing tours, so we added a bunch to our London itinerary .

These are the ones that we recommend to anyone visiting London with kids.

Double-Decker Bus Tour of London

I’ll be frank, my kids HATE having to walk miles every day when we visit London. So, I’m always looking for ways we can sit down but still go sightseeing.

London has a ton of double-decker bus tours that are pretty awesome and you really can’t go wrong with any of them.

There is one that is specifically designed for kids, though. It’s with Tootbus (I promise they will laugh at the name) and it’s only 45 minutes long. Check the latest rates and availability .

Private Harry Potter Walking Tour for Families

To be honest, there are LOTS of Harry Potter tours in London that are pretty cool. But this one is perfect for families.

Embark on a magical 3-hour private tour with your family, exploring Harry Potter’s filming locations in London.

Visit famous spots such as Diagon Alley, the Ministry of Magic, and Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station, all while enjoying captivating Harry Potter stories. Check the latest rates and availability .

Harry Potter Locations Sightseeing Bus Tour

While I personally think that Harry Potter walking tours are the way to go, there’s also an option to do a bus tour instead.

You’ll still see a lot of the same filming sites and even get off the bus to take photos. And your kids might not complain as much since they aren’t walking.

This Harry Potter bus tour covers King’s Cross Station, the Millennium Bridge and more. Check the latest rates and availability .

Get Our FREE London Travel Planner

Harry potter studio tour.

If you have any Potterheads in your family, you’ll definitely want to do a day trip to the WB Studios in London .

We did this specific tour because it included transportation from Victoria Station and we didn’t have to stress about getting there on our own.

Plus, we could just relax on the bus ride to and from the Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

The studio tour itself is INCREDIBLE! You won’t run out of things to do/see or photos to take. It’s seriously impressive! Check the latest rates and availability .

Afternoon Tea Double Decker Bus Tour

While there are TONS of London afternoon tea spots, it’s really fun to enjoy it on a double-decker bus !

For kids, they have the option of doing hot chocolate instead of tea and it comes in a tumbler with a LID! And there are tons of great food items for the whole family.

You’ll ride around London on a sightseeing tour WHILE enjoying afternoon tea. It’s great for people short on time or attention spans. Check the latest rates and availability .

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Wizard Afternoon Tea at The Wands and Wizard Exploratorium

Another unique afternoon tea experience is this Harry Potter version . Yes, it involves casting spells with wands!

While you’ll get to enjoy tasting afternoon tea items, you’ll also learn about molecular gastronomy and use technology to create your tea concoctions. Check the latest rates and availability .

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

It would be a shame to visit London without seeing the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace .

It’s a formal ceremony in which the soldiers currently on duty, known as the Old Guard, are relieved of their responsibilities by a new set of soldiers, called the New Guard, all choreographed to military music.

While you can do it on your own for free, it’s really helpful to do a tour because your guide will know the best place to stand, can explain to kids what’s going on, and knows the backup plans in case of rain. Check the latest rates and availability .

Paddington Bear Walking Tour

If your kids love the Paddington Bear books or movies, this is such a cute tour for families ! You’ll get to hang out in Paddington Station and see the famous statue of Paddington Bear.

You also get to walk past the site of Mr. Gruber’s antique store and see the inspiration for Windsor Gardens, (where the Brown family lived).

The tour guide will ask kids lots of trivia questions and keep them engaged as they explore London. Check the latest rates and availability .

British Museum Private Tour for Kids & Families

Our family LOVES doing private museum tours when we travel. It’s a great way for our kids to stay engaged while learning about art or history from an expert.

While you can visit the British Museum for free, I highly recommend booking this tour because you’ll get to see tons of historic treasures and find out why they are important.

Plus, your guide will tell cool stories and play games with your kids. Check the latest rates and availability .

Tower of London Kid-Friendly Private Tour

The Tower of London is a historic castle that has served various purposes since its construction in the 11th century, including a royal palace, prison, treasury, and even a zoo. It’s now home to the Crown Jewels of England.

You can just get tickets and explore on your own, but it’s super helpful to do a kid-friendly tour because you’ll get to hear cool stories about the Tower of London and the spooky ravens.

It’s also so helpful for kids to have an expert to answer their (many) questions about British history and all the weird stuff that happened at the Tower of London. Check the latest rates and availability .

Kid-Friendly Natural History Museum Tour

The Natural History Museum is one of the coolest London museums for families.

This fun, family-focused tour of the Natural History Museum , designed for kids, makes learning exciting with a collection of dinosaur fossils and a huge blue whale skeleton.

Your private guide, an art historian, will lead the way, and the tour price includes your entry tickets. Check the latest rates and availability .

London Westminster Abbey Kid-Friendly Tour

Explore the famous Westminster Abbey , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a stress-free family tour that includes skip-the-line tickets.

Your tour guide will keep kids engaged with interesting stories about the history of this iconic London landmark.

After the Abbey, your private guide will lead a walk around Westminster, showing you notable landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and St. James’s Park. Check the latest rates and availability .

Tate Modern Art Gallery Private Guided Tour for Kids & Families in London

On this private family tour of the Tate Modern , enjoy a journey through the world of modern art, where masterpieces by artists like Picasso and Dali are on display.

The guide makes the visit fun and engaging for kids with stories, games, and activities as you explore this unique museum set in a former power station. Check the latest rates and availability .

Kid-Friendly National Gallery Tour in London

Take a fun and educational family tour of London’s National Gallery where you’ll see famous artworks by Van Gogh, Picasso, and more.

Led by an art historian, this 2.5-hour tour blends learning with enjoyment and includes a visit to Trafalgar Square. Check the latest rates and availability .

Family Day in London Tour

If you are looking for a kid-friendly London tour that hits all the city’s highlights, this is a great private tour option for the whole family.

It’s a half-day customized tour based on your own family’s interests. So, it could include parks, museums, or attractions. It’s up to you! Check the latest rates and availability .

Fun Things to Do in London with Kids FAQs

What are the best family-friendly attractions in london.

London offers numerous family-friendly attractions such as the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the Tower of London , the London Zoo , the London Transport Museum , and the Sea Life Aquarium . Don’t forget the iconic sights like the London Eye , Buckingham Palace, and the Changing of the Guard.

Is public transportation in London family-friendly?

London’s public transportation is extensive and very accessible. The Tube (London’s subway system) and buses are easy to navigate and children under 11 travel free when accompanied by a paying adult. Plus, the iconic double-decker buses and river cruises on the Thames can be fun for kids.

Are there any outdoor activities suitable for families?

London is full of beautiful parks such as Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Kensington Gardens where families can have picnics, rent paddle boats, or visit playgrounds.

There’s also the London Zoo and various city farms. A trip to Greenwich can include a walk up to the Observatory for a great view of the city and standing on the Prime Meridian Line.

How can I keep the cost of a family trip to London low?

Many of London’s top museums and attractions are free for children or offer family discounts. For sightseeing, consider a family pass for the London public transportation which offers unlimited travel for a day or week. Also, consider packing lunches some days as dining out in London can be expensive.

Can we tour famous kid-friendly movie locations in London?

Absolutely! There are Harry Potter-themed tours that take you to various filming locations, such as Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station. There are also tours for Paddington Bear and Mary Poppins fans.

Are there any kid-friendly theatre shows in London?

London’s West End has a variety of kid-friendly shows such as “The Lion King”, “Matilda”, and “Aladdin”. Some theatres also offer behind-the-scenes tours that could be exciting for older children.

Tours in London with Kids Wrap Up

Exploring London with kids can be an enriching and delightful experience, with a plethora of engaging tours catered to younger audiences.

From the regal Buckingham Palace to the iconic London Bridge, the city provides an exciting historical playground that sparks the imagination of children and adults alike.

Tour options range from the intrigue of Harry Potter’s magical world to the fascinating collections of the Natural History Museum, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Visiting London with your younger kids isn’t just about seeing a city; it’s about immersing them in history, culture, and stories that they will remember for a lifetime.

So pack your bags and make London your next family adventure destination!

Looking for more London family travel resources? Check out my top London travel tips , kid-friendly London 4-day itinerary , best things to do with kids in London , hidden gems in London , things to do in London at night , family-friendly hotels in London , top London photography spots , best weekend trips in Europe , Europe travel tips , 1 day in London , 11 Terrific Things to Do in London with a Toddler , 8 Exciting Things to do in East London With Kids , and how to book a London family photographer !

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Discover The Top London Attractions in 75 minutes

The Classic Tour is a wonderful vintage double decker bus tour and sightseeing experience like no other. Hop on board our carefully restored classic 1960s double-decker Routemaster bus, for your open-top ride through the best attractions in London.  Our hand-picked, highly trained, entertaining and comedic tour guides are the best in the business and will help you experience an authentic London you may not have known. They are also very funny! You will see more, learn more and laugh more while understanding the astonishing history of the Capital, taking the photos and selfies of a lifetime, and enjoying the glorious sights of London.

Please note – choice of seats and deck are given on a first-come first-serve basis.

A Classic London Bus Experience

Experience historical London from our beautiful and iconic open-top London bus which was originally used by London Transport from the 1960s.

Finest Tour Guides in London

Our brilliant tour guides come from a variety of entertainment backgrounds and will bring you a tour like no other. Our guides really do know their history and facts about London. They will share their wealth of knowledge with you, as you pass the key landmarks. Watch and listen out for some incredible insights into the making of our Capital city.

State of The Art Audio Equipment

The buses have been fitted with state of the art enhanced technology to bring your experience into the 21 st century.

The Classic Tour Story

The Classic Tour provides a unique and entertaining tour on one of the most iconic and historic vehicles of our time - the Routemaster bus. It is seen in all the classic films with London as a back-drop, it is on all the postcards, and though they are no longer in widespread public service, with us you can still experience this thrilling, prestigious and stately ride that allows the most intimate and authentic opportunity to be experience and be part of our great city.

YOUR JOURNEY

Your journey starts at Trafalgar Square.

Departing from the absolute heart and centre of London, you will follow a carefully selected route to allow you to discovery the very best of our Capital and see the best attractions, buildings and landmarks in London. You will have constant opportunities to take some fantastic photographs and better understand the history of how and why the buildings came to symbolise our great city. Please also note, although we will always try our best, on rare occasions we may be unable to visit every landmark listed on the tour.

Find out more here

Our tours depart from Northumberland Avenue at:

Please Note: Our tours only run on certain days, please check our booking form for the latest date & time information

Please note that tour times are subject to change.

The following tickets are available when you book:

• Private Hire
• Privacy Policy
• TERMS & CONDITIONS

Connect with us

Have a query? send us an email and we'll get back to you, asap.

St Paul’s Cathedral, London, is an Anglican cathedral, the seat of the Bishop of London and the mother church of the Diocese of London. It sits on Ludgate Hill at the highest point of the City of London and is a Grade 1 listed building.

Trafalgar Square is a public square in the City of Westminster, Central London, built around the area formerly known as Charing Cross. Its name commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory in the Napoleonic Wars with France and Spain that took place on 21 October 1805 off the coast of Cape Trafalgar, Spain.

Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality. It has been a focal point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and mourning.

Westminster Abbey, formally titled the Collegiate Church of St Peter at Westminster, is a large, mainly Gothic abbey church in the City of Westminster, London, just to the west of the Palace of Westminster.

The Shard, also referred to as the Shard of Glass, Shard London Bridge and formerly London Bridge Tower, is a 95-storey skyscraper in Southwark, London, that forms part of the London Bridge Quarter development. Standing 309.7 metres (1,016 ft) high, the Shard is the tallest building in the United Kingdom, the fourth-tallest building in Europe and the 111th-tallest building in the world.

The Tower of London, officially Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. It lies within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, separated from the eastern edge of the square mile of the City of London by the open space known as Tower Hill.

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames in London. The structure is 443 feet (135 m) tall and the wheel has a diameter of 394 feet (120 m). When it opened to the public in 2000 it was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel.

Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge in London built between 1886 and 1894. The bridge crosses the River Thames close to the Tower of London and has become an iconic symbol of London, resulting in it sometimes being confused with London Bridge, situated some 0.5 mi (0.80 km) upstream

Downing Street is a street in London, United Kingdom, known for housing the official residences and offices of the Prime Minister and the Chancellor of the Exchequer. “Downing Street” is used as a metonym for the Government of the United Kingdom.

Top Sight Tours Group

Open Top London Bus Tour with Live Guide

Tour start time: daily from 10am to 5pm, start every 1 hour, what we will see & where we will be.

This is an open top bus tour through most iconic landmarks of London with live guide ( on selected departures, subject to availability) . Sit back and relax as our well-ventilated bus reconnects you with the city. The tour lasts between 1.5 hours and 2 hours (subject to traffic on the day).

The bus glides past Central London with most iconic landmarks such as London Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, London Eye, .

The buses will be running at reduced capacity and tickets will be sold in specific time slots to avoid overcrowding.

Know before you go

What’s included :

• Professional live guide on selected departures (s ubject to availability)
• Audio guides available in 11 languages
• Reduced capacity and allocated time slots to avoid over crowding

What’s exlcuded :

• Entrances to any attraction

Please bring with you

• Bottled water

Please note :

• Not hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Buses will be cleaned thoroughly after every tour.

Where we meet

London Eye Tourist Stop, Belvedere Road

Once you have booked, we will send you a confirmation email with all the details of how, where and who to meet on the day of your tour.

Tour Highlights

• A fully ventilated open top bus tour of London
• See London’s most iconic landmarks
• Great history lesson for all ages
• Live English-speaking guide
• Audio guide available 

Notable sights :

• London Tower Bridge
• Houses of Parliament
• Buckingham Palace
• Westminster Abbey
• Trafalgar Square
• Piccadilly Circus
• London Eye 

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Which is the Best London Bus Tour for Kids?

When does a London bus tour for kids cross your mind? London walking tours are fun, but sometimes you just want to relax and see the sites with minimal effort. With these tours, you can sit back and relax in a temperature-controlled bus while watching the city slowly pass outside your window.

The best London bus tours provide live narrators with extensive knowledge of the city. They’ll tell you historical tales while filling you in on some of the best spots to explore when you get off the bus. Some will even answer questions and tell funny stories, all in the name of bringing London to life for your family.

London Bus Tour for Kids Favorites:

Regardless of the ages of your children, there are family-friendly London bus tours to explore. Some of our favorites are below, but keep an eye out for other options that may appeal to your family. From scary to magical to sweet, there’s something for everyone in London.

Hop-On, Hop-Off Tours

You can’t discuss the best London bus tours for kids without mentioning the hop-on, hop-off tours. They give you the freedom to hop on and off the bus as you please, so your children can explore attractions that grab their interest immediately. Then you simply hop back on to continue exploring the city. You can spend a full day sightseeing with your children in charge.  This is a London bus tour for kids that gives a lot of flexiblity. 

There are three companies currently offering hop-on, hop-off tours in London:

• The Original Tour
• Big Bus Tours
• Golden Tours

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

If you have Potter enthusiasts in the family, you can’t miss a  bus tour  that explores the setting for many scenes in the movies. Along the way, you’ll pick up secrets that reveal how some of the magic was created on the big screen. For instance, your kids will see how the magical coins were pressed plus so much more.

There are different versions of this tour, allowing you to customize the options for your family. For instance, you may choose private bus transportation to and from the studios or add a hop-on, hop-off London bus tour to extend the adventure.

London’s Time-Traveling Tour

Hop on a vintage bus with Professor Quantum and  explore London  in a more creative manner. Your family will learn a variety of facts about the history of London while listening to an entertaining character guide them through the city. What better way is there to make history entertaining?

London at Night Sightseeing Tour

Who says you have to obey bedtime while on vacation? Keep the kids up a bit later than usual and take them to see the fantastic  skyline of London . Or, you can save this bus tour as a romantic escape for you and someone special. Either way, it’s an unforgettable experience after dark in London.

Afternoon Tea Bus in London

What better way to bring out your kid’s sweet side than to board a bus in the afternoon and feed them a spread of sandwiches and treats from a  leading London bakery ? Your family will enjoy traditional tea time while exploring the city and resting up for the rest of an exciting day in London.

Selecting the Best London Bus Tours for Kids of All Ages

The best bus tour is the one that meets the needs of your family and the interest of your children. As you explore your options, keep the following factors in mind:

• Space  – Some tours limit the number of people allowed to attend at once. If you have a large family or are traveling with extended family, that may mean booking multiple tours and splitting into groups.
• Availability  – Some London bus tours are only available on set days of the week. They will all have set times for departure. Those days and times may not align well with your itinerary.
• Theme  – Some themes are suitable for the entire family while others are best left for older children and teenagers. Some are historic while others are focused on specific themes. The theme will dictate where the tour goes and the sites you see, so choose wisely.
• Length  – How long can each member of your family sit still on a bus? The guide will help keep their attention, but small children may still struggle to sit still and pay attention for longer than an hour.
• Refreshments  – Some bus tours will include snacks and/or drinks while others trust you to take care of those arrangements for your own family. Some may not allow drinks or food on the bus at all, so make sure to ask if your little ones need refreshed.
• Time  – The time of day can make a difference in how alert and happy young children are and how well you can see the city outside the window. Scary London tours are best after dark, so remember that London doesn’t get dark until 9 p.m. in some seasons.

Weighing all those factors, select the London bus tours that will suit your family well. If you see multiple tours that your family will enjoy, consider using them as rest periods between attractions that require more energy.

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• Trip to London with Family? How to Plan Your Trip for Kid-Friendly Fun
• London Family-Friendly Tours and Fun Things to Do with Kids

Avoid These Tourist Traps In London And Visit These Destinations Instead

O ne of the world's greatest cities, London is packed with tourist attractions so impressive that you'll want to add them all to your itinerary. From the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace to the Churchill War Rooms, the list of unmissable landmarks seems endless. Don't worry, though -- it's possible to visit most of them in just a two-day trip . When you're on a tight schedule, it's important to avoid time- and money-wasting tourist traps in favor of visiting sites that are worthy of your attention. 

Whether it's an overrated and overpriced wax museum, a kitschy dungeon experience, or a super crowded viewpoint, there are many places to avoid visiting in the U.K.'s heady capital. The confusing part? Some of them top multiple lists of must-see attractions. That's where we come in. 

As someone who lived in this captivating English city for six years, I have first-hand knowledge of the biggest tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London. Plus, I can offer more impressive (and often less costly) destinations to visit instead. Don't want to take my word for it? No problem. I combined my first-hand knowledge with reviews and suggestions from other locals to create this list.

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

Skip Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours And Ride A London Bus

While hop-on hop-off bus tours can be a convenient way to explore a big city, they often come with a hefty price tag. If the tour is based in London, you can expect to pay over $50 per adult for a one-day pass. Instead, board a London bus, which will cost less than $7 for a day of travel. Bus fare for one ride is about $2 and the daily cap is under $7. To pay for their ride, visitors must use a contactless card or an Oyster Card, the visitor's version of which can be purchased online and mailed to your home before you leave.

Double-decker London buses offer spectacular city views, with many routes passing right by London's landmark attractions. One of our faves is the historic Routemaster Bus 15, which we suggest boarding at the Tower of London. Hop on at Great Tower Street (Stop TT) and ride west to Charing Cross Station. Be sure to sit up top for the best views along this heritage route -– you can't miss St. Paul's Cathedral and Trafalgar Square. 

Bus 24 is another great option for sightseers. Hop on at Victoria Station and ride it to Camden High Street. Along the way, you'll pass Westminster Abbey, the Horse Guard's Parade, Trafalgar Square, and Downing Street. Grab a bite at Camden Market when you disembark or stay on until you reach Hampstead Heath where you can catch unbeatable views of the city.

Skip Madame Tussauds And Visit Buckingham Palace

It may tout itself as a top London attraction, but Madame Tussauds would be more honest if they said they were the top rip-off site. Booking in advance will save some money -- the standard online rate for an adult begins at just over $47 versus the walk-up price, which begins at almost $60. But that's still a lot of quid to dish out for wandering around an overcrowded and noisy space filled with okay-ish wax replicas of A- and B-list celebs. Yes, it's fun to take photos with the royal family and fool friends into thinking you met them IRL, but is it worth it? We don't think so.

Instead, we suggest visiting Buckingham Palace for a potential King Charles III sighting. Realistically, you probably won't spy a royal outside the palace, but at least you'll see a historic monument up close. Celebrities more your thing? Book a reservation at one of the city's most popular restaurants. Chiltern Firehouse has hosted acting greats Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper as well as soccer superstar David Beckham. 34 Mayfair is another good bet for great food and celeb spotting. Imelda Staunton and royal family members have all eaten here.

Skip Changing Of The Guard And Visit The Queen's Gallery

While you should add Buckingham Palace to your list of must-see London tourist attractions, you may want to avoid a visit during the Changing of the Guard. This formal ceremony marks the change between the old guard (on-duty soldiers) and new guard (soldiers taking over duty) for the royal palaces. Marching with a band from Wellington Barracks to the Palace, the new guard will arrive at the palace at about 10:45 a.m. A well-known event, this is a big tourist draw, which means you can expect hefty crowds queuing up an hour or more in advance, as well as pickpockets who arrive to take advantage of the chaotic atmosphere. This tourist trap, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, is one you'll be happy to miss. Sadly, watching this famed ceremony these days feels more like witnessing an overhyped marching band than it does an esteemed historic ritual.

Instead, ditch the crowds and glimpse art from the Royal Collection in the Queen's Gallery or visit the Royal Mews , where you can see the royal stables and the 260-year-old Gold State Coach used at King Charles III's Coronation. The Mews are open Thursday through Monday from early March to early November. Neighboring St. James Park is another interesting place to visit. One of London's famed Royal Parks, it is bordered by three palaces and boasts a fabulous view of Buckingham Palace in particular.

Skip Platform 9 ¾ At King's Cross Station And Visit Warner Brothers Studio Tour London

If you're traveling with a Harry Potter-obsessed kid, you may want to visit Platform 9 ¾ at King's Cross Station. But if you're alone, or with other adults who couldn't care less, we advise you to skip this overrated tourist trap. If you're already planning to be in King's Cross Station and have time to scope out this attraction, that's one thing; but if you're traveling there with the sole purpose of visiting this site, think twice. 

Set between platforms 9 and 10 (obvs) this point of interest includes nothing but a brick wall denoted with a sign. Stuck into the wall is part of a trolley loaded with fake suitcases and an empty owl cage. Those hoping for a quick photo and to score some Potter swag will be pleased;  the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is open daily, even on bank holidays, and it sells everything from wands to clothes to makeup. 

For those who'd rather have an unforgettable and truly magical Harry Potter experience, though, head to Warner Brothers Studio Tour London -- The Making of Harry Potter in nearby Leavesden. Instead of merely looking at a wall, visitors can board the Hogwarts Express, "fly" on a broomstick, walk through the Great Hall, and explore the Forbidden Forest. Step foot in Diagon Alley, try a Butterbeer, or check out some of the film's famous props and costumes. You won't be sorry you visited.

Skip London Dungeon And Visit The Tower Of London

No matter how much the kids beg you to visit the London Dungeon, stay strong and just say "no." This kitschy tourist trap is a waste of your hard-earned money (tickets start at over $37 for adults) and it's so hokey you'll roll your eyes more times than you can count on both hands. This pitiful attraction is peppered with costume-clad actors who like to scream and cackle and its two rides (the Drop Dead: Drop Ride and the Tyrant Boat Ride) will make you wish you were at Walt Disney World; even "It's a Small World" would be more enjoyable. An escape room has also been added to increase the venue's income stream –- it costs $153 for a private game for six people.

Want a historic experience with a side of chills? Head to the Tower of London instead. There, you can tour the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, where you can get up close and personal with the stretching machine (a.k.a. the rack) and other ancient torture devices in the Lower Wakefield Tower. The Bloody Tower is another point of interest you won't want to miss. The most infamous prison on the grounds, this is where you'll learn about the alleged murder of two young princes -– Edward V and his little brother Richard –- by their uncle, Richard III.

Skip The London Bridge Experience And Visit Churchill War Rooms

Looking for a good spooking? Do yourself a favor and skip The London Bridge Experience. A tourist trap designed to bring the city's macabre history to life with the help of actors with a penchant for jump scares, you can expect to meet zombie-like versions of ghastly heavyweights Jack the Ripper and William Wallace during your visit. Tickets cost about $37 for the experience, which takes anywhere between 35 and 50 minutes. That means you could be spending more than $1 a minute. Entry fees also include a trip to the London Tombs, deemed the U.K.'s "best scare attraction," according to their site . Zombified dentists, doctors, and creepy clowns await visitors in the lower vaults of this venue, ready to pounce and scream in your face.

Instead, we suggest visiting the Churchill War Rooms. Also located underground, this fascinating historic facility is part of the Imperial War Museums. Located in the basement of Whitehall, this once-secret complex was used by former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, top government ministers, and military planners to conduct meetings and develop plans during the country's war effort during World War II. Known as the Cabinet War Rooms, this clandestine spot was used daily during the war, until August 16, 1945. Or experience that stomach drop feeling by walking the glass floors at Tower Bridge. Set nearly 138 feet above the Thames, the views are both terrifying and impressive. Tickets cost under $16 per adult. 

Skip The Sherlock Holmes Museum And Visit The Sherlock Holmes Pub

We don't recommend visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum unless you have a detective-obsessed kid who doesn't realize that the famed character is fictional. Set inside a Georgian townhouse at 221B Baker Street in Marylebone, this four-story museum has been open since 1990. Inside lie antique furnishings mentioned in the books and pretty creepy-looking mannequins. Tickets cost over $21 which isn't exorbitant, especially for London, but considering you won't be there long (the museum's quite small), this seems a bit of a waste.

Instead, head to The Sherlock Holmes  in St James. Self-described as a "Victorian-themed public house," this watering hole features a recreated version of the famed fictional detective's apartment upstairs. The entire pub is dotted with references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved books, making it easy to feel as if you're within the pages. Plus, there's a beer garden –- the museum certainly doesn't have one of those.

Skip The SEA Life London Aquarium And Visit The London Zoo

You'll find everything you'd expect to see at the SEA Life London Aquarium. From penguins to sharks to turtles, they're all there. And as far as aquariums go, this is a pretty good one. But when you're in one of the world's greatest cities that lies on the banks of a river, not an ocean, there are plenty of better things to see. Standard tickets to the Sea Life London Aquarium cost $24 online or $51 at the door. Again, that's pretty on par for London attractions, however, it's a steep price to pay for a tourist trap. 

Instead, visit London Zoo in Regent's Park. The oldest scientific zoo in the world, this family-friendly attraction was opened in 1828 for fellows of the Zoological Society of London. In 1847, the public was invited to visit. Today, the zoo is home to 14,0000 animals including a giant, 425-pound silverback gorilla, Sumatran tigers, and Linne's two-toed sloths. While tickets aren't cheap (an adult will cost about $40 to visit on a weekday), it's easy to spend a whole day here. Or, if you aren't willing to part with that much cash, visit the smaller, and lesser-known, Battersea Park Children's Zoo . Adult tickets are more reasonably priced, at $16. There are over 100 animals at this little zoo, including wallabies, meerkats, otters, and lemurs, and plenty of opportunities to interact with animals like coatis, donkeys, and goats.

Skip The Shard And Visit Level 10 At The Tate Modern

There's no denying that The Shard is impressive. In fact, it's one of the most spectacular buildings in the world . The viewing platform was opened by the queen on February 1, 2013, with the main restaurants (Aqua, Oblix, and Hutong) following suit that summer. Set across the Thames from another bucket-list-worthy London building, the Gherkin, this engineering masterpiece towers 1,016 feet above the city and boasts 11,000 glass panels. 

Dubbed a "vertical city," there's plenty to do inside, like spend serious coin on a meal with a view, or zip up one of the 44 elevators to the viewing platform. That 360-degree view will cost you, though -- about $36, or more if you add a glass of champagne. And if you visit on a day that's rainy or misty (honestly, London is often both of those things), you're basically paying for a ride in a lift.

Instead, head to Level 10 at Tate Modern, where you can enjoy a drink or snack (including sandwiches and salads) while ogling the impressive view of the Thames, St. Paul's Cathedral, the BT Tower, and Blackfriar's Bridge. You won't have to pay a thing unless you choose to grab a bite or a warm cuppa. The Skygarden at 20 Fenchurch Street is another must-visit for a free skyline vista. The highest public garden in London, this leafy space is as stunning as its views are remarkable.

Skip The London Eye And Visit Hamstead Heath

We are well aware that some of you will disagree with this addition to our list of tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London, but hear us out. Yes, the London Eye is iconic. Yes, it offers fantastic views of the city. And yes, it's deemed a top London attraction you won't want to miss . That said, visiting this popular landmark can cause more headaches than enjoyment. First created as a temporary point of interest, this 443-foot-tall, "cantilevered observation wheel" is the largest of its kind in the world, according to its website . And if you catch a ride on one of its 32 pods on a sunny day, you can see up to 25 miles in all directions. The problem is that thousands of others have the same idea, which means you could stand in line for more than two hours on a particularly busy day. Standard tickets start at over $32 online or more than $57 for a walk-up.

Instead, visit Hampstead Heath for a unique city view you probably never knew existed. Parliament Hill stands over 321 feet tall, making it one of the highest natural points in the city. If the weather is ideal, you can see to the Gherkin, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament. Speaking of the Gherkin, it's another great spot to enjoy unparalleled views. Grab a drink and snack at Iris Bar at Searcys at the Gherkin , then relax with a side order of stunning vistas.

Skip Harrods And Visit Peter Jones And Liberty

Harrods is to London as the Colosseum is to Rome -– a historic icon that's become synonymous with the city. The world's most famous luxury department store, this Knightsbridge institution is impossible to miss -– it's eight floors tall and an entire block long, not to mention over one million square feet in size. Inside, you'll find 20 restaurants, a beauty salon, a bank, and 300 separate departments selling over 5,000 brands. You'll also see price tags so high you might suffer sticker shock. Due to its notoriety, Harrods is often packed with tourists, making it difficult to enjoy the plush interior.

If you're hoping to shop during your London holiday, there are plenty of excellent places to visit instead. Sloane Square is home to the Peter Jones & Partners department store. Owned by John Lewis, this vast shop is filled with enough enticing merchandise that you'll find it tough to leave empty-handed. Grab a bite at The Top Floor Restaurant (on the 6 th floor) for captivating views of Chelsea and beyond.

Liberty is another recognizable landmark located on Regent Street. A heritage-listed building; this stunning Tudor-style store is as beautiful outside as it is indoors. Built between 1922 and 1924, it is worth a visit, if only to admire the impressive architectural features (the price tags here are also quite shocking).

Our Ranking Methodology

Having lived in London for six years with two young children, I visited pretty much every tourist attraction the city has. From renowned points of interest like the Tower of London to remarkable museums, I've seen the top sightseeing destinations multiple times, including many kitschy tourist traps I wish I'd skipped. To create this list, I used my experiences at these attractions to determine which locales are tourist traps that should be avoided and I included alternatives that are more than worthy of your time and money. I also consulted reviews from other locals and travelers, as well as their tips, to ensure the list is solid.

Read the original article on Explore .