historical walking tours of london

Guided Walking Tours

Hello! I’m Jack, an Open City trained tour guide. My walking tours of London’s hidden history are fun-filled with a focus on the quirky and off-the-beaten-track. Join me to unearth this fascinating city’s hidden gems and spot the little secret details that many miss.

As well as the public tours below, I also have availability for private tours . Click here to find out more.

None of the below dates work for you or they are sold out? Click here to sign up to my newsletter to be the first to receive future dates and my weekly blog post on a fascinating historical spot in London..

I also have four self-guided walks in my book London: A Guide for Curious Wanderers. Find out more here !

Current Walks

Covent Garden: Behind The Scenes

See Covent Garden like never before on this walking tour digging out the area’s secrets and scandals. Tread in the footsteps of pimps, Victorian actors and protesters as we dive into Covent Garden’s hidden corners. See all dates here .

• Fri 3rd May 10.30am – Sold out
• Wed 8th May 10.30am – Sold out
• Sat 1st June 11am – Sold out

Secrets and Symbols of the City

A walk exploring his historic heart of London: the City, aka the ‘Square Mile’. We will look at its fascinating past through the lens of its minutae: hidden gardens, narrow passageways and oft-overlooked little symbols. See all dates here .

• Fri 19th April 2pm – Sold out
• Sat 20th April 10.30am – Sold out
• Sat 27th April 2.30pm – Sold out
• Sat 4th May 2.30pm – Sold out
• Tues 14th May 10.30am – Sold out
• Fri 17th May 10.30am – Sold out
• Sun 19th May 2.30pm – Sold out
• Sun 2nd June 2.30pm – Sold out
• Fri 7th June 10.30am – Sold out

Smithfield Uncovered: Rebels and Retribution

A walk discovering one of London’s most historical and captivating areas. Walk in the footsteps of queens, revolutionaries, monks, murderers and merry-makers to uncover an area of extreme contrasts. Along the way will find a notorious execution site, a Black Death burial ground and a Tudor architectural gem.

• Sat 4th May 11am – Sold out
• Thurs 9th May 10.30am – Sold out
• Sat 11th May 11am – Sold out
• Thurs 16th May 10.30am
• Thurs 6th June 10.30am – Sold out

The Hidden Strand: Power, Wealth and Empire

A fun-filled walking tour of the hidden Strand and surrounding alleyways, unearthing its secrets and how power, wealth and empire have shaped its history. See all dates here .

• Sun 28th April 11am – Sold out
• Sat 18th May 11am – Sold out
• Fri 31st May 10.30am – Sold out
• Sun 2nd June 11am – Sold out
• Sun 9th June 11am – Sold out

Westminster’s Backstreets: Saints and Scoundrels

A walking tour of Westminster and its lesser-known backstreets, uncovering stories of heroic saints and scurrilous scoundrels. See all dates here .

• Sun 5th May 2.30pm – Sold out
• Sat 18th May 2.30pm – Sold out
• Sun 9th June 2.30pm – Sold out

Lambeth’s Legendary Trailblazers: From Blake To Chaplin

Discover a lesser-known area of London but one that is packed with history. Walk in the footsteps of Charlie Chaplin and William Blake as well as street urchins, pedlars and Tudor princes, as we explore off-the-beaten-track Lambeth. See all dates here .

• Sat 25th May 11am – Sold out

Recent Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Best London walking tour I’ve been on! Excellent tour. Jack is very engaging and clearly loves what he does. The tour was thoroughly researched and always fascinating. It touches on some real gems along Strand, along with some great Strand facts. 10/10 would recommend.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Historical Touring at its finest! We’ve been on a few previous walking tours and while Jack’s walking tour (of The Strand) focussed as much on history as it did on architecture, it was simply fascinating! Jack showed us so many hidden nooks and crannies and shared with us so much from London’s past that we were totally hooked! And all this delivered by a thoroughly affable and generally very knowledgeable chap. Just beware of his solid myth-busting!!!

Private Walking Tours

I also offer private London walking tours- perfect for curious Londoners and tourists who want to get off-the-beaten track! Simply email me at [email protected] .

Looking for some London history inspiration? Check out my most recent blog posts below!

If Walls Could Talk… A Look Inside The Old War Office

My Top Ten Historic Churches In London

A Visit To London’s New Roman Wall Museum

A Wonderful Day Trip To Historic Hastings

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15 Best Walking Tours in London

By Julia Buckley

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

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

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

Tales of Plague Arrow

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

London Fire Walk Arrow

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

Jermyn Street Fashion Walk Arrow

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

Mayfair: A Spy's Guide Arrow

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

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

Historic Pubs, Food & Beer Tour Arrow

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

Tour for Muggles Arrow

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

London Urban Adventures: Soho Historic Pubs Tour Arrow

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

Shoreditch Street Art Tours Arrow

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

Walk Eat Talk Eat Arrow

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

SideStory Travel: The Actor's Stage Arrow

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

Black History Walks: Notting Hill Arrow

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

Undiscovered London: Camden Markets and Musical Legends Tour Arrow

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

London Loo Tour Arrow

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

East End Walks Arrow

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

Royal London Full Day Experience Arrow

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

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The 15 best walking tours in London

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

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

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

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

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

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London walking tours

1.  Food Walking tour: West to East

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

2.  Kensington Palace Gardens tour with Royal High Tea

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

3.  Three-hour secret British food tour

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

4.  Harry Potter walking tour

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

5.  Westminster and the Churchill War Rooms

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

6.  Changing of the Guard guided walking tour

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

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

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

8.  Historic pub walking tour

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

9.  Private Sherlock Holmes walking tour

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

10.  Blood and Tears walk

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

11.  Greenwich highlights half-day walking tour

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

12.  Jack the Ripper tour with fish and chips

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

13.  Bowl of Chalk walking tours

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

14.  Unseen Tours

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

15.  East End street art walking tour

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

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The 11 Best Walking Tours in London for Every Interest

George Rose/Getty Images

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

James Bond Walking Tour of London

Harold Pugh/Getty Images

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

Jack the Ripper Tour

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

The Beatles - In My Life Walk

Carl Court/Getty Images

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

Love, Actually Walking Tour

Emily Zemler

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

See 30+ London Sights Tour

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

Tour For Muggles

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

Street Art & Graffiti Tour

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

St. James Jaunt

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

Drink London Tour

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

Changing the Guard Walking Tour

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

Secrets of the London Underground

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

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From Romans to the Ripper: 8 Historical Walks in London

London has hosted some pivotal moments in world history, including the blitz of world war two and the infamous great fire of london. here are 8 walks retracing the city's rich history..

Harry Sherrin

13 oct 2021.

London was founded by the Romans in around 43 AD. It has played a pivotal role in world history ever since, serving as a principal centre of culture and politics for 2 millennia.

The city has endured disasters, from the Great Fire in 1666 to the London Blitz during World War Two. But it has also hosted incredible moments in history and housed more than its fair share of famous residents, including Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare.

Now, on walks around London, the relics of the city’s history can be witnessed firsthand.

Visit the very street where the Great Fire started and stroll the alleyways which Jack the Ripper once prowled: here are 8 of the greatest walks and walking tours in London.

1. Charles Dickens’ London

Charles Dickens fans can trace the key locations of Dickens’ life in London on a self-guided walking tour through the city. The route passes various locations which inspired iconic moments in his books, including Oliver Twist and Great Expectations , and takes walkers to the very spot Dickens stood in when he arrived in London aged 10 years old.

The route takes around 2 hours to complete, the details of which are available on the City of London website. Known as Dickens’ Magic Lantern, the tour was designed by Charles Dickens expert Dr Tony Williams. It meanders around a relatively small portion of the city centre, so those who want a shorter stroll can pick and choose which sites to visit.

2. Jack the Ripper’s East End

The infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper terrorised Victorian London in 1888. His gruesome murders were never solved, and his true identity still remains a mystery. Many of the streets and alleyways he once stalked, and the sites of his crimes, can still be visited in the city’s East End to this day.

For an immersive guided tour, the East End Tour Company offers regular evening outings through the alleyways, streets and sites of Ripper’s London. Guides use projectors to shine clues and images on street walls, encouraging walkers to retrace the scenes of Jack the Ripper’s crimes and delve deeper into the mystery of his identity.

3. Shakespeare’s London

London was a huge force in William Shakespeare’s life. He lived and worked in the city for years, probably from around 1585 to 1612. Now, modern visitors to London can follow in the great playwright’s footsteps.

On a trail through Shakespeare’s London, walkers can pass the site where the original London Globe theatre once stood. They’ll also see its modern reconstruction. Other highlights include Shakespeare’s favourite buildings, his former home and the parish church he frequented. The full details of the route are available as a PDF on the City of London website.

4. Roman London

London’s rich Roman heritage dates back to 50 AD, when the Romans constructed a bridge over the Thames and established a city on its banks: Londinium. The urban centre flourished, becoming the capital of Roman Britain.

The City of London’s Roads to Rome walking route retraces London’s Roman heritage. The walk takes visitors through the City of London, passing the remains of a Roman bathhouse, the city’s ancient amphitheatre and the ruins of a Roman gatehouse. The final stop is the Museum of London, where visitors can witness the world’s largest collection of Londinium relics.

5. Royal London

As the capital of the United Kingdom, London’s royal heritage runs deep. It’s home to several royal residences, including Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace, and it typically hosts the biggest events in the royal calendar, from coronations to royal weddings.

A number of agencies offer guided tours around central London’s most significant royal sites. Alternatively, visitors to the city can carve their own path around the city’s greatest regal attractions. Must-visit spots include St James’ Park, Clarence House, the royal palaces and the Royal Albert Memorial.

6. Sherlock Holmes’ London

Sherlock Holmes fans can follow in the footsteps of the iconic detective as they stroll through central London. Start at the Sherlock Holmes Museum at 221b Baker Street, the address of the famed detective. Then visit the Sherlock Holmes Pub and Simpsons in the Strand, Holmes’ favourite restaurant in the novels.

Walkers can explore this route themselves or join a guided tour for a more expansive and informative experience. The company Brit Movie Tours offer a Sherlock walk which also encompasses key locations from the Sherlock TV show and the Sherlock Holmes movies, sharing behind-the-scenes secrets from the productions.

7. London in the Blitz

In 1940, at the height of World War Two, Nazi Germany’s Luftwaffe bombed London for 57 days straight. Visitors to the city can now retrace the history of the Blitz on foot. Key locations to visit include St Paul’s Cathedral, which was dutifully defended by Londoners during the Blitz, and the Imperial War Museum, where visitors can dive into the history of the conflict.

London Walking Tours offer an immersive tour through the city’s World War Two sites. On the tour, entitled The City Under Siege, walkers will hear stories from 29 December 1940, possibly the worst night of bombing during the London Blitz. They’ll also visit buildings that endured the assault and learn how London rebuilt after the Blitz.

8. Great Fire of London

One of the most devastating fires in recorded history, the Great Fire of London decimated huge swathes of the city in 1666. It burned for 5 days and 5 nights and ultimately razed more than half of London to the ground. Modern visitors can now trace the blaze’s path on a walking route through the City of London.

The walk passes Pudding Lane, where the blaze began and where the Monument to the Great Fire now stands. The route also meanders past the sites of landmarks lost in the blaze and crosses London Bridge, which thousands of Londoners would have used to escape the fire in 1066. Full details of this self-guided walking tour, including a downloadable info pack, can be found on the City of London website.

Walking London History

Guided walking tours in London

Guided Walks in London

Sightseeing with a difference: discover London through fantastic guided walks . Informative, entertaining and illuminating tours that give you a real insight into London’s history .

“ David’s knowledge of the history and individuals involved was extraordinary and he made it all interesting and entertaining”

Your guide, David, is a committee member of the City of Westminster Guide Lecturers Association and used to be a visiting lecturer on their guiding course. He has a degree in history from the University of Oxford, and has a background in teaching and coaching. See the reviews .

Walking tours usually last between 90 minutes and two hours but tours can be designed to meet your interests and to suit your schedule.

Scheduled walks are available. Prices for scheduled group walks are £19.00 per person, £36.00 for two people, plus booking fees. Contact me directly for the fees for private tours.

“David was so knowledgeable and he showed us the most unique places in our area. Places and stories I had never heard being someone who lived here at one point. He is the BEST! Definitely worth booking for a tour” Caroline

Contact David for a private and/or bespoke tour. Prices for private tours are available on request.

Or phone 07970 852788

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London Walking Tours Guided London Walking Tours

Westminster and Whitehall Four Palaces and a Cathedral

Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, Downing Street, The Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace are all readily recognisable and familiar. However, behind the familiar they all have stories and tales that are less well known. Our circular walk, starting and finishing at Trafalgar Square tells the story of these well-known sites and uncovers some of their more curious secrets.

King’s Cross to Farringdon Trains, Drains and Revolutionaries

As London grew rapidly in the 18th and 19th centuries, the area between King’s Cross and Farringdon changed beyond all recognition. Our walk explores the engineering marvels of the Victorian age, the struggles faced by ordinary people in a rapidly growing city and uncovers some of the darker tales of yesteryear.

Belgravia’s Historic Pubs Walk Explore the hidden back street gems of London…

It’s hard to believe that one of the most expensive residential districts in Europe was once an area of marshy land known as Five Fields. Join us as we trace the history of this exclusive area and go behind the scenes to visit the pubs that would have been frequented by the footmen, stable boys and servants. Visiting 5 pubs in total we will end our tour with a visit to The Star for a final drink and a bite to eat.

City of London Walk a circular walk of the City

From the Romans to medieval London. From Pepys to Dickens. Our walk takes us on into the 20th Century to uncover a world of firewatchers, ARP wardens and auxiliary firefighters. The City of London was a prime target for the Luftwaffe. Our walk will tell a story of bravery and courage in the face of, at times, overwhelming odds.

Sex & Drugs & Rock ’n’ roll Tour around Soho

Our new historical London walk takes us to a relatively small part of London, but one which has plenty of tales to tell! London’s playground for over 200 years. Starting at Tottenham Court Station and finishing in Chinatown this walk is a reminder that “The web of our life is of a mingled yarn, good and ill together.”

Pubs and Pirates from St Paul’s to Canary Wharf

Sticking to the riverside path this walk runs from the familiar splendour of St Pauls to the less familiar waterfront at Wapping. Revisit the haunts of the press gangs, pirates and their pursuers. An opportunity to see a rapidly changing London alongside a London that would have been familiar to the merchants and seafarers of the 18th century.

East End Markets from Hackney to Spitalfields

A stroll through the vibrant and ever changing landscape of the East End. On this walk you will encounter fashion, food and flowers as well as former slums and highly desirable Georgian townhouses. In other words an opportunity for a bit of history and a spot of retail therapy. Please note, this walk is only available on a Sunday.

Markets, Kites and Canals King’s Cross to Primrose Hill

In between the story of an expanding and changing London there is an opportunity to enjoy some of the best views of the capital on offer. Much of this walk follows the canal towpath and is an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern capital.

A Monopoly of Power and Wealth Tour around Mayfair and St James’s

Tour the most expensive parts of the Monopoly board. Bustling and vibrant, this walk takes in some of the most expensive addresses in the world. Many sights will be familiar, many less so. Our walk finishes on the Thames embankment.

In the Wake of the Boat Race from Putney to Barnes via Chiswick

Starting at Putney Bridge, this is a walk almost entirely free of traffic, our route follows the Thames Path both north and south of the river as we explore a world of boat houses and clubs, riverside pubs and striking architecture. The route takes us past Fuller’s Brewery at Chiswick.

Dickens at Christmas Get into the spirit of Christmas…

For fans of A Christmas Carol and of Charles Dickens generally, this is the walk for you! Get into the spirit of Christmas and step back to take a look at London as Charles Dickens would have seen it 150 years ago. Join us as we visit the places that featured in Dickens’ life and work and inspired him to create characters as dark, as joyous and as complex as Scrooge, Jacob Marley, the Cratchit family and as we are approaching Christmas we’ll do our best to banish all thoughts of ‘Bah humbug!!

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15 Best London History Tours in 2024 (ranked!)

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Ready to book the best London history tours?

You’ve come to the right place because I’m covering the top London history Tours here.

How do I know?

I’ve lived in England since 2012 and have explored far and wide, so I know that one of the best things to do in London for history buffs is book a tour and explore.

Only quality tours are included in this list so you know that every tour you book is worth your money and time.

Don’t want to read to the end of the article?

The best tour of London History is: Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of London’s Fiery History.   

It has 5 out of 5 stars with over 100 reviews, so you can’t go wrong!

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

The best London history tour is the Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings tour .

Click here to check prices and availability.

There are plenty of other London history tours to choose from, so let’s get right down to it.

In this list, you’ll find 15 of the top-rated London history tours so you know you’re making the right choice.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best London History Tours

1. roman ruins to blitz bombings: a walking tour of london’s fiery history : history tours in london.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 110+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Walking tour
• Small group tour 
• Learn obscure trivia

History buffs might think they already know everything about London’s history.

This tour will dive even deeper than you ever have!

Even the most learned historians will learn something new on this tour.

Learn about more than 2,000 years’ worth of history.

This well-rounded tour will teach you about the Roman ruins, the Blitz bombings, Charles Dickens, and Anne Boleyn. 

Because it’s a walking tour, you’ll get to see the attractions up close. This is so much better than hoping to get a window seat on a tour bus!

At each of the 9 stops, you’ll be able to snap a picture and learn something interesting.

2. Natural History Museum London – Private Guided Museum Tour : history walking tours in London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 79+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Guided Museum Tour
• Tour Guide Exclusively For You
• Duration 2 hours
• Wheelchair Friendly

If you’re traveling with kids, consider booking this tour . They will have so much fun learning about history and you’ll also learn a lot!

While you can explore the museum on your own, there are benefits to hiring a guide.

They’ll tell you the highlights of each exhibit so you don’t have to read everything. This is especially great if you have kids running around.

He’ll also help you get through the museum efficiently.

Otherwise, you might spend all day there and glean the same amount of information.

3. The Authentic British Food and History Tour (Try many British Foods) : London history walks

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 24+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Alcoholic Beverages
• Coffee or Tea

Calling all foodies! If you want to taste the best of Britain while learning about its history, book this tour now .

This small group tour will bring you to the best versions of classic British grub.

While you’re trying the iconic food, you’ll also learn the history of Britain and its food.

You won’t have enough time to eat at all the good restaurants in the area.

Fortunately, the tour guide will give you plenty of recommendations for the rest of your trip!

You’ll walk by many historic landmarks but will spend most of your time at the Borough Market.

This is where you will find the best food in the city.

4. London Witches and History Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 23+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  75 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Costumed ‘in-character’ guide
• Harry Potter trivia

On this walking tour , you’ll learn about the witchy history of London.

Your knowledgeable guide will also be dressed in costume.

This is a good sign that they know how to have fun and will make sure everybody in the tour group is having a blast!

The guide will teach you a lot about history and magic.

You’ll especially learn about the witch trials and hauntings of London’s past. Which iconic landmarks have a spooky history?

And Harry Potter fans will be excited to catch a glimpse of some filming sites.

5. Kid-Friendly Natural History Museum & Dinosaurs Private Guided Tour in London : historic London walks

⭐️  RATING:  2.5 out of 5 Stars, 8+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  50 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Blue Badge guide
• Professional art historian guide
• Professional Kid-Friendly Guide
• Private tour

If you love history and have young kids, this is a good tour for you. The kids will have a blast and learn so much!

They won’t complain about being bored a single time.

But just because it’s for kids doesn’t mean you won’t learn anything.

Even history buffs will learn something new on this tour!

The guide knows the best parts of the museum.

This means that you won’t miss anything important. He’ll also be able to summarize all the important information so you don’t have to read every word on every sign.

6. History of London Photography Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 8+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Led by a professional photographer
• Amazing photo opportunities
• Professional photography advice
• Fascinating historical facts

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves to take gorgeous photos wherever you go, then you’ll love this tour .

Not only will you have plenty of photo ops, you’ll learn the best tips for capturing those pictures.

With 10 stops, you’ll see the quintessential corners of London.

You’ll learn some interesting tidbits about the area’s history.

And you’ll take astonishing photos that will look like they belong on a magazine cover!

Whether you love looking at photographs of the city or would rather be behind the lens, you’ll enjoy this tour.

And you’ll really love showing off the pictures to your friends when you get home!

7. The Beatles Magical History Black Taxi Tour London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 29+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   4-5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private Transportation in a Licensed London Black Taxi
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Bottled water
• Parking Fees

Beatles fans will love this tour !

Music lovers in general will be able to enjoy learning the history revolving around this iconic band.

You’ll follow in the footsteps of these legendary musicians and learn about their history.

Spend some time at Abbey Road Studios and immerse yourself in music history.

You’ll even have a chance to get your picture taken while walking across the street!

Relive the ‘60s at Carnaby Street. See where Beatlemania was born at the London Palladium.

And visit 3 Savile Row where you can discover so much Beatles memorabilia at the place where they held their last live show.

8. Pub Tour London (Drinking History)

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1-2 hours| ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Alcoholic beverages
• Small group
• London history

This tour is limited to 6 people so you’ll be able to bond with the others as you drink your way through London!

You’ll explore London and even see a lot of parts that you might have missed. You’ll also learn a little bit about the history everywhere you go!

The highlight of this tour is Fleet Street.

Home to several historic pubs, you’ll learn about their history and their brews.

Be sure to enjoy a drink in the same places as Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and Samuel Johnson.

9. The Natural History Museum of London: Private Half-Day Tour

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

• Professional guide
• Reserved entrance time
• Personalized experience

The Natural History Museum in London is a must-see attraction!

It’s often considered the most important center for the research of natural history and sciences.

This museum is huge and can be hard to get through.

That’s why you should hire a guide to make sure you see all the important parts!

They can also summarize the information so that you can get the highlights without reading every single sign.

Since it’s a private tour, it can be personalized to your preferences.

Spend more time on your favorite exhibits and less time on those that you don’t find interesting.

10.   London’s Hidden Gems and Secret History Private Guided Tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3-4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Hotel pickup and drop-off

If you want to see parts of London that only the locals know about, go on this tour .

You’ll see landmarks that you’ve probably never even heard about before.

But by the end of the tour, you’ll know the interesting history behind each of these stops! 

The local guide will help you have an enjoyable tour and give you tips for the rest of your trip.

He’ll bring you on a route that you probably never would’ve found on your own.

He’ll also share all the inside information that even a lot of locals don’t know!

11. Brixton History and Culture Private Walking Tour : historical tours in London

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 – 2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Local guide
• Cultural history
• Quintessential locations

If you love exploring the cultural scene, you’ll love Brixton.

This is the most diverse area of London.

Brixton is home to several types of international cuisine.

This neighborhood has a rich history of immigrants settling in.

You’ll also find a variety of art!

With 5 main stops, this tour will cover the main attractions of Brixton.

You’ll have a deeper appreciation for many of the cultures in this world.

You’ll also see the results of what happens when people come from all over the world to live in the same area.

12. World War II History in London Private Guided Tour : history tours London

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-7 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private Walking Tour of London WWII Sights 
• 5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in your chosen language
• Skip-the-line tickets to the Churchill War Rooms (only in 4 and 7-hour options)
• Free admission to the Imperial War Museum (only in 7-hour option)

World War II buffs will enjoy this tour . Explore the main WW2 sites of London on this tour.

You can choose a 2-hour, 4-hour, or 7-hour option depending on how much you want to see!

The tour begins at Waterloo Place and includes a visit to Royal Naval Division War Memorial and the Palace of Westminster.

If you choose a longer tour, you will get to visit the Churchill War Rooms.

On the longest tour, you’ll also have admission to the Imperial War Museum.

If you have all day, this is the best way to learn about the Second World War! If you only have a few hours, you’ll still be able to learn a lot!

13. London History Taxi Tours

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 21+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private transportation
• London History tour
• Several photo ops

Your knowledgeable tour guide will know his way around the city and be able to get you everywhere safely and efficiently.

He’ll pass by the most iconic London landmarks so you’ll have a chance to see everything on your bucket list!

This private tour is personalizable and flexible.

You’ll be able to adjust the itinerary to spend more or less time at different locations since there won’t be a ton of other tourists!

You’ll stop at 6 places, including Mayfair, Southwark, and the Financial Centre of London and the UK.

14. Unique Mayfair Lifestyle and History Walk – Private Custom Tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private, personalized itinerary
• Expert Local Guide
• Additional suggestions for the rest of your stay

Mayfair is a quite trendy part of London. Experience the architecture. Enjoy the fashion scene. Explore hidden passages.

Not only will you visit art galleries and designer stores.

You’ll also learn about their history on this tour .

Visit Mayfair, Savile Row, and Bond Street.

Learn what makes them so iconic in the London art scene!

Stop by St. James’ Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and Fortnum & Mason. See how they are still influencing modern-day art.

You’ll have a chance to do some shopping and taste some tea.

You’ll also get to bond with other tourists who have similar mindsets as you.

15. 2-Hour Private LGBTQ+ History Tour of London with a Licensed Guide

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private Tour
• Professional qualified guide
• Tour of Bloomsbury
• London’s LGBTQ history and culture

This private tour accommodates up to 15 people who are excited to learn about LGBTQ history in London.

Explore the Bloomsbury district as you learn about the artists, writers, and philosophers who played a big role in shaping London’s LGBTQ community.

Your guide will share a wealth of information, including over 300 years’ worth of LGBTQ history.

Instead of the history lessons you’ve learned before, you’ll learn about history from a minority’s perspective.

This will help to shape your ideas about everything you know!

You’ll even learn some Polari, a secret gay language in London.

Want more London tours? Check these out!

• 13 Best London Tours with Afternoon Tea
• 5 Best London Speedboat Tours
• 5 Best Tower of London Tours
• 5 Best Westminster Tours in London
• 5 Best Winston Churchill Tours in London
• 7 Best Borough Market Tours
• 7 Best James Bond Tours
• 7 Best Black Cab Tours of London
• 11 Best Royal Tours in London for Visitors
• 11 Best London Art Tours
• 5 Best Graffiti Tours in London
• 11 Best Full Day London Tours
• 9 Best Tours of London’s East End
• 11 Best Private Tours in London
• 17 Best London Food Tours
• 17 Best London Harry Potter Tours
• 11 Best London Bus Tours
• 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
• 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
• 9 Best London Literary Tours for Bookworms
• 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
• 11 Best London Bike Tours
• 11 Best Beatles Tours in London
• 11 Best London Museum Tours
• 21 Best London Walking Tours
• 11 Best London Rock N Roll Tours
• 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
• 19 Unique London Tours
• 5 Best Open Top Bus Tours in London
• 7 Best London Helicopter Tours

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

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best London Walking Tours 

Harry potter walking tour of london .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jack the Ripper Walking Tour of London 

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

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

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

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

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

Sherlock Holmes London Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

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

CityDays’ Interactive Mystery Tours of London

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

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

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

Book a CityDays London Walking Tour Here

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

Half Day London Food Tour 

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

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

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

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

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

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

City of London Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

London’s Historic Pubs Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

B ook a place on the historic pub walking tour

Hidden London Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

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

Discover the hidden side of London on this walking tour.

London Night Photography Walk 

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

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

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

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

Explore London on a photography walk of the city

London Ghost Walk 

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

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

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

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

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

Get spooked on this London Ghost Walk

London’s Dark Side Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

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

Roman London Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

Explore Roman London on this walking tour

Exploring London’s Haunted Pubs 

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

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

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

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

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

Walking Tour of London’s Filming Locations 

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

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

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

Get behind the scenes on this filming location walking tour

Discovering London’s Soho Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

Delve into Soho’s salacious history on this walking tour

A Naughty Side: Discovering Unsavoury London 

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

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

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

Get naughty on this risque walk around London

London Sightseeing Walk 

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

And a trip around the London Eye to boot.

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

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

Explore London’s most striking landmarks on this tour

A Royal Palaces Tour

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

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

Explore London’s Palaces on this tour

London Cheese Tour

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

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

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

Say Cheese! On this foodie tour

Kensington Palace Gardens Tour with Royal High Tea

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

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

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

Live like a king on this Kensington Palace Gardens tour

British Museum Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

The Beatles Walking Tour 

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

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

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

Beat the Beatle mania on this London tour

Go Behind the Scenes at Wembley Stadium 

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

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

You can even have a nosey around the Royal Box. 

Take an access-all-areas tour of Wembley Stadium

Practical Tips for Booking a London Walking Tour 

Free london walking tour vs paid tour .

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

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

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

Booking a London Walking Tour 

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

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

Looking to Tour More of London?

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We delve into the cool, interesting and quirky spots that make London such a dynamic city, telling you the best things to do, eat and drink along the way. 

Tired of the same old dull suggestions? Want to know where to find London’s secret bars, tastiest eats and weirdest finds? We provide practical guides that help you do just that.

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London History Tours

Guided walking tours in The City of London

Walking tours in the City of London

Two thousand years ago the Romans built the first settlement here, and The City of London has been making history ever since. Saxons and Vikings, Normans, Tudors, the English Civil War, all have left their mark. One of the world’s greatest cities, and the best way to see it is by walking around.

The area inside the original Roman walls which is often known as “The Square Mile” or simply “The City” is the UK’s main centre for business and finance. This is where you’ll find the Bank of England, the Stock Exchange and many of London’s great institutions. It’s a dynamic modern city, with cutting edge architecture being carefully positioned around ancient historical buildings and the churches of Sir Christopher Wren. Around every corner, down every winding alley, is a story or historical character waiting to be discovered. Tales of fire, plague, treachery and death, all have their place here as well as joyful pageantry and eccentric ceremonies.

Your Guide to Walking Tours in the City of London

These walking tours are here to help you discover the City of London’s rich history. Join one of the public guided walks and tours. Or if you want to see something specific you can contact me and arrange a bespoke private tour for yourself. Bring your friends, family or colleagues. Come and see what The City of London has to offer.

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28 Best Walking Tours in London for a Captivating Stroll Through Centuries of History

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Plunge into our comprehensive list of some of the best walking tours in London ! From Harry Potter magic, historical Palaces, James Bond, foodie discoveries to the beloved Paddington Bear there are walking tours in London to suit the tastes of all types of travelers!

Getting outdoors and strolling around the city streets definitely makes it top of the list of the essential things to do in London !

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• walking tours in London

1 – Ultimate London Sightseeing Walking Tour with 30+ sights

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 233 reviews )

“Very informative and and so much fun! Do ur home work guys on cheese, cheese jokes as trust me, points mean prizes! Would recommend 100%”. Graham. Viator

For those looking to see a handful of the best tourist attractions in London, look no further than this jam-packed walking tour from See The Sights Tours taking visitors into the heart of the City and around Westminster. Capture some incredible photos of the iconic Big Ben, the clock that serves the grand Houses of Parliament !

Listen to stories regarding the British Royal family as you peer into the gates of  Buckingham Palace where you may spot the King’s Guards! Other highlights include gazing up at the world famous  London Eye , which has been in operation since the Millennium.

Definitely an excellent way to make the most of your time in London and gain an overview of the major historic and iconic landmarks. The enthusiastic guide provides plenty of interesting and informative facts regarding British history at the same time as being entertaining!

2 – Paddington Bear Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1583 reviews )

we booked for a group of 10. So much fun! Cristian. Headout

Are you a fan of Paddington, the marmalade loving bear in a blue duffle coat who is completely lost on a platform at Paddington train station? Follow in his footsteps and walk around the sites that this friendly and polite bear visits in both the books by Michael Bond and the recent film blockbusters.

In the company of Brit Movie Tours , Paddington Bear fans (adults and children alike) can wander around the streets of West London and explore some of the fascinating filming locations. Pass by the Brown’s family home in Primrose Hill and stop outside Mr Gruber’s antique shop on Portobello Road!

The scenes from Paddington are really brought to life during this energetic and engaging tour! Take photos of the bronze sculpture of Paddington and his suitcase inside the bustling Paddington station, explore the tranquil waterways of Little Venice where Paddington’s houseboat was moored and embrace the vibrant atmosphere of the busy Portobello Market!

3 – London: The Beatles Walking Tour of Marylebone and Abbey Rd

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 59 reviews )

“We loved our tour!! Our guide, Spencer, was fabulous!! He was the same generation as the Beatles and was full of knowledge about them. We got to see some very cool spots!” Wendy. Getyourguide

Dive into a world of Beatle mania and join Brit Icon Tours for an enthralling walking tour full of Beatles sites, rock ’n’ roll and pop history. Stroll across the iconic zebra crossing of Abbey Road featured on their world famous 1969 album! Discover where your favorite Beatles once lived or where Paul had his inspiration for composing ‘Yesterday.’

Follow your passionate guide on a fandom journey as they reveal insights into the ups and downs of the band history, insights into their complex personal lives and important turning points in their musical careers. Share this fascinating walking tour experience with similar like-minded Beatle music lovers!

An essential pilgrimage tour for any Beatles fan looking to soak up the London locations frequented by the Beatles! Transport yourself back to the buzzing London of the late 1960s and get ready to listen to plenty of interesting details and Beatle themed trivia. Don’t forget to capture your Abbey road Beatles shot to take home!

• Rock’n’Roll music tours in London

4 – Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 16515 reviews )

“We recommend the tour to everyone. No matter whether you are an initial Harry Potter fan or a real hardcore fan. Thank you for this great experience!” Laura. Getyourguide

Embark on a magical walking tour with  See Your City around the London sites that inspired the spellbinding J.K Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter! Discover which Hogwarts House you belong in and participate in trivia quizzes throughout the tour to test your Potter knowledge! This entertaining tour is definitely one of the top fun things to Do in London with Teens .

Discover the narrow alleyways and hidden passages of Borough Market that inspired the likes of the Leaky Cauldron pub and cross over the Millennium Bridge destroyed by the Death Eaters! During the tour you can either opt for a short boat trip down the Thames or a short underground ride.

An excellent tour for both kids and adults who love Harry Potter. The pace is dynamic, bursting with fun quizzes and wizard trivia whilst at the same time you get to see some of the magical hidden gems and backstreets of London.

• Harry Potter tours in London

Hot tip: Here’s everything you need to know about the best places every Harry Potter fan should visit in London . For a complete experience, book Harry Potter Studio Tour tickets and step on board the Hogwarts Express for a magical journey.

5 – London Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1169 reviews )

“In addition to the fantastic food choices, we really enjoyed Chris’s rock-and-roll history! Drinks were also a favorite.” Patty. Viator

Indulge in a discovery of authentic British cuisine during a  Secret Food Tours around the top foodie hotspots of the capital. Tuck into some classic fish and chips sprinkled with finger licking salt and vinegar, warm and crispy sausage rolls and plenty of great ale and chilled British cider.

Uncover the secrets of the bustling Borough Market and soak up the sights along the river such as Tower Bridge and the HMS Belfast. Have you ever wondered what the British eat for dessert, get stuck into a piping hot sticky toffee pudding!

For those wanting more, they also offer a foodie tour around the trendy neighborhood of Soho.

A great way to get a comprehensive overview of British cuisine and favorite local snacks! The guide can really help you navigate through Borough Market and uncover some tasty delicacies. It was entertaining to listen to some historical insights of the nearby landmarks and marketplace. Definitely try out the bacon and egg breakfast bap!

• food walking tours in London

Read more: Best food tours in London

6 – Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 518 reviews )

“Tim is a wealth of knowledge. We really enjoy this tour… lots of info we wouldn’t have learned without a guide.” Christina. Viator

History buffs listen up and great ready to explore the rich history of Westminster in the knowledgable hands of  Top Sights Tours .

The area of Westminster is densely packed with some of the  best places to visit in London such as the grandiose Royal Buckingham Palace, St James Palace (constructed back in the 1530s), the gothic spires of the Houses of Parliament and the glorious  Westminster Abbey (the site of numerous royal weddings and burial ground of notable historic figures).

In addition to passing by 20 historic sites, delve inside the Churchill War Rooms underground bunkers to learn more about British politics during World War II.

An engaging and historically detailed walking tour covering the main highlights of Westminster. We loved being able to catch the changing of the guards outside Buckingham Palace and learn more about the different monarchs throughout Britain’s history. Fascinating to see the Map Room and the Transatlantic Telephone Room inside the War Rooms.

7 – Small-Group Tour: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London

Rating: ⭐️ 5.0/5 ( 3841 reviews )

“Top shelf walking tour/pub crawl! We visited four historic pubs in central London and Westminster. If you’re a real ale, beer, gin, and/or history fan, this one is for you!” Todd. Viator

If you want to uncover some of London’s most historic and characterful traditional pubs then hop on the  Liquid History Tours Pub walking tour! Enter inside four historical pubs, refresh with a pint and continue with the tour!

Marvel at the art nouveau inspired interior of an alehouse in Blackfriars and discover the vast array of cozy pubs along Fleet Street such as the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, famously frequented by author Charles Dickens!

Get to know your other fellow pub walkers as the guide talks you through the fascinating history of British drinking culture!

A great way to spend an afternoon in London, delving into traditional pubs to warm up along the route and stopping off to hear interesting factual explanations of the neighborhoods and historical buildings! Tasty ales and plenty of great company! Excellent for couples as well as solo travelers!

• pub crawls in London

8 – Jack the Ripper Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 2200 reviews )

“Johnny was our guide, he was very knowledgeable, passionate and energetic. We enjoyed the tour and recommend if you are interested in learning about Jack the Ripper”. Deanne. Civitatis

Get ready for a spine tingling journey into the dark and gruesome side of London! During this  Golden Tours adventure, visitors will delve into the history of the serial killer who plagued the streets of the Whitechapel district back in 1888!

Learn about the victims of these tragic murders- five local women, several of whom were prostitutes! Following your guide around the scenes of the crime is undoubtedly one of the spookiest and funniest things to do in London at night !

Uncover some of the most atmospheric hidden London alleyways and dark historic street corners!

Fascinating to learn different theories about the unsolved case of Jack the Ripper and the sordid conditions of dark alleys in London during the 19th century! The energetic guide was a captivating storyteller and left us with goosebumps during several stops on the tour!

• Jack the Ripper tours in London

Read more: Best London night tours

9 – Ultimate introduction to photography in Central London

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 19 reviews )

“I have been using my camera for years without understanding the technical basics and I now feel confident I can progress and improve thanks to the great tips Matthew gave me”. Sophie. Viator

Have you ever dreamed of taking some high-quality and artistic photographs but lack the technical skills, confidence and past experience to get your feet off the ground? Join an intensive photography crash course whilst walking around Central London under the guidance of professional photographer Matthew Williams-Ellis !

This small group tour is definitely one of the top  things to do in Central London for those with a budding interest in photography! Experiment with different apertures, shutter speeds and shooting modes and encapsulate some dramatic shots of the Thames River skyline and the London Eye .

Mathew was super friendly and approachable from the start of the tour. Now I understand a lot better how to maximize my camera’s functions and different settings. I enjoyed the tips on capturing different lightings and our photos of the London Eye in motion are worth treasuring!

• photo tours in London

10 – London: Notting Hill Film Locations

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 107 reviews )

“Anna did a great job, was very committed and told lots of great stories. Really 2 great hours.” Christoph. Getyourguide

Get to know the area of Notting Hill, the vibrant multi-cultural area of London made famous in the romantic comedy film starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts!

Pass by picturesque streets lined with colorful Victorian townhouses, leafy communal gardens, trendy boutique shops and the bustling Portobello Road market filled with eclectic vintage attire and antique bargains!

Learn about famous celebrities who have frequented the area such as rock and roll stars and literary giants. You are bound to recognize plenty of filming locations along the route!

It was great to see some of the filming locations from the Notting Hill Film such as the classic Blue Door and the Book Shop! It was an amazing introduction to this hip and lively area. I enjoyed seeing the former recording studios where music legends such as Bob Marley and Led Zeppelin created their albums!

11 – Silent Disco West End Musicals Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 819 reviews )

“Absolutely loved the silent disco great fun and the 2 hosts were excellent. Wear flat comfy shoes as you do alot of steps 😊 Great afternoon out and lots of fun.” Samantha. Viator

Party your way around the West End whilst bopping along to some awesome musical soundtracks during a  Silent Disco walking tour. Discover interesting landmarks along the route and allow your guide to explain fascinating facts regarding the history of important theatres, actors and West End shows.

This fun walking tour is definitely one of the top  things to do in London for couples as you get the opportunity to experiment with your street dance moves! Highlights include stopping off at the vibrant Leicester Square and world-class entertainment venues such as the Savoy Theatre, Theatre Royal Drury Lane and many more!

Plenty of laughs and smiles as we danced from street to street around Soho. Was really fun to belt out some of our favorite musical hits in between learning interesting facts about productions, showbiz and theatre! A memorable highlight of our London trip!

• silent disco tours in London

Read more: Discover the best West End shows and musicals to see right now and get familiar with the iconic West End theaters hosting these unmissable performances.

12 – London: Witches and History Magical Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 62 reviews )

“A super nice, enthusiastic lady. She told it with passion and you couldn’t stop listening to it. All in all…TOP!!” Giovani. Getyourguide

Are you curious to learn more about the history of mysterious London witchcraft? With  iWelcome Tours you can follow your enchanting witch guide along the banks of the Thames River , listening to stories of real-life witches and the tragic fates that befell them!

The tour includes a huge range of iconic London landmarks such as the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral , a fine example of English Baroque architecture! Pass by the eerie Clink Prison, infamous for housing prisoners accused of witchcraft and dark magic and Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre! Even Shakespeare himself was inspired by sorcery when we think of the prophecies of the witches in Macbeth!

Double, double toil and trouble! Our guide was an excellent storyteller, keeping us hanging in anticipated suspense. The perfect walking tour length and a good range of historical sites along the route. It was interesting to learn about the Golden Hinde (a replica of Francis Drake’s 16th century ship) along with gruesome tales of Clink Prison!

• ghost tours in London

13 – Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1062 reviews )

“Our guide, Rachel, was knowledgeable and delightful. The tour felt unique, as they took us to the best vantage points at the best times to avoid crowds. Thank you!” Daniel. Viator

March alongside the Old Guard and delve into the rich history of the British monarchy during a fascinating tour of London’s iconic royal sites. Organized by Fun London Tours , this walking tour includes passing by Buckingham Palace with its impressive neoclassical façade, grandiose gates and famous balcony where the royal family make their public appearances during royal celebrations!

Learn more about St. James Palace, the birthplace of many British Kings and Queens throughout history. The tour also gives participants the chance to experience classic London streets such as the shopping haven of busy Regents Street brimming with attractive Regency-style buildings!

What a treat to get a great viewing position for watching the Changing of the Guards, an important British tradition that dates back to the 17th century! We managed to dodge the crowds and get wonderful photos. The guide was funny and personable and shared a lot of compelling trivia facts regarding the British monarchy.

• Changing of the Guard tours

14 – London West End Treasure Hunt The Mystery of Who Pushed Molly May

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 129 reviews )

“Great trivia, great spots and optimally challenging riddles for an easy and fun 4 hour walk through Soho.” Rahul. Viator

Follow in the footsteps of the fictional 1920s Londoner actress Molly May as you embark on a Mystery Guides treasure hunt to solve the mysterious case of the West End villain. Get ready to pick your brain with plenty of cryptic clues at different locations throughout London’s emblematic theatre district.

Expect to uncover plenty of interesting locations dotted around the streets of Soho and perhaps the odd plot twist that could plunge your mission into jeopardy if you don’t pay close attention! Pass by historic taverns, iconic hotels and old theatres in this unique self-guided adventure!

A great activity for groups of friends or families looking for an entertaining afternoon! We could go at our own pace and it was also fun to discover the nearby Chinatown. It was nice to have the activity booklet so we didn’t have to rely on our mobile phones and could keep the batteries charged for photos.

• scavenger games in London

15 – London Walking Indian Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 363 reviews )

“The Walking Indian food tour was educational, fun and full of great food! It was a great introduction to a different London neighborhood with some history lessons mixed in.” Anna. Viator

Indulge in a whirlwind of rich spicy curries, smoky and tender tandoori, warm naan bread and thick refreshing lassis during the Secret Food Tours London Indian Food route.

Come face to face with culinary delicacies from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, bursting with intense flavors and color! Walk around the animated East End streets of Brick Lane as part of a small group whilst learning more about this neighborhood’s diverse multicultural history and identity!

Embrace the strong and mouthwatering aromas as you pass by London’s ‘curry mile’ and discover a traditional market dating back to the Victorian Era.

A yummy, delicious and abundant selection of authentic curries and treats that left us feeling completely full! It was fascinating to learn a bit more about the food preparation along with the different spices and try some Indian sweet desserts. I liked the small group size and getting to know our fellow tour goers!

16 – London: Borough Market Foodie Walking Tour with Tastings

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 55 reviews )

“Just do it! It’s absolutely worth it and our guide Leo was a gem. The food selection was great and there was plenty of time to roam around. The tour was one of the greatest highlights of my short trip.” Jessica. Getyourguide

Join  Carpe Diem Tours for a foodie lovers tour around London’s oldest market! Learn more about the history of this iconic British market that has been operating since 1014. The guide will take you on a journey through British culinary traditions, introducing participants to all time British classics such as fish and chips as well as introducing some lesser known typical treats!

Try an authentic British cup of tea, learn how to correctly prepare and serve it and sample some celebrated English beer and ale!

A brilliant tour for food lovers looking to get an overview of British food culture. I particularly enjoyed the range of cheeses and sausage rolls. Borough Market has such a vibrant atmosphere, packed with local producers and high-quality gourmet delights.

• all food tours in London

17 – Royal Palaces Guided Walking Tour and High Tea

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 41 reviews )

“Simon our tour guide was a wonderful guide. He was very knowledgeable and extremely friendly.” Michael. Getyourguide

Feel like true British royalty as you dive into a scrumptious High Tea provided by  Top Tasting Tours at  Kensington Palace & Gardens !

Learn about the fascinating history of this 17th-century Royal Palace, the former home to the legendary Queen Victoria and glamorous Princess Diana, and stroll around around the beautifully manicured gardens.

In addition to jam topped scones and classic cucumber sandwiches this tour also involves a guided commentary about the history of Buckingham Palace and St James Palace, including a sneak peek at the famous Changing of the Guards!

Our guide Simon was super warm and friendly, telling us plenty of royal trivia and stories of British monarchs. Excellent to see three main Palace during one walking tour. The afternoon tea was a real treat, with tasty cakes and sandwiches in an unforgettable setting!

• afternoon tea experiences in London

18 – London Palaces & Parliament: Small-Group Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 45 reviews )

“Very nice walk around Westminster. Guardians change and finish at the front of Elizabeth Tower/ Big Ben. Matt as a guide was great. On top of data he told stories and even singed once. Well spent 3 hours.” Tomas. Tiqets

Join London Top Sights Tours to discover some of the major iconic sites London has to offer from impressive Royal Palaces, luscious green parks, the famous Trafalgar Square to the glorious Gothic spires adorning the Houses of Parliament .

This jam-packed walking tour includes a handful of the top tourist attractions in London such as the grandiose  Buckingham Palace (where visitors can witness the traditional changing of the Guards) along with the glorious  Westminster Abbey where royal coronations have taken place since the 11th century!

Get some excellent photos of Big Ben and pass by the residence of the British Prime Minister, the famous Downing Street!

We learnt a lot about the British monarchy and politics during this crammed packed walking tour of Westminster and Buckingham Palace! The guide provided an educational yet light-hearted commentary during the walk and we managed to get some excellent photos of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament!

19 – London: Harry Potter Movie & Book Locations Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 135 reviews )

“Alex Scamander is just super funny, entertaining and very informative! He shares a great deal of knowledge about Harry Potter, the city and other film locations in the city in a very entertaining way. An absolute must for every Harry Potter fan! Thumbs up for Alex and the Muggle Tour.” Dagmar. Getyourguide

Discover all the London sites that inspired J.K Rowling or that feature in the Harry Potter films during this magical adventure offered by Tour for Muggles .

Follow your guide through bustling markets, down dark London alleyways, past historic pubs and along the River Thames whilst learning plenty of Potter trivia and tales of wizardry. Expect plenty of group interaction, facts regarding famous London landmarks and lots of walking!

Cross over the famous Millennium Bridge that was attacked by Death Eaters and explore the Victorian covered market of Leadenhall that is rumored to have inspired the bustling Diagon Alley!

A fun walking tour experience even if you are not a Harry Potter fanatic! The guide shared lots of funny stories along with valuable insights into London’s history, engaging both children and adults throughout the tour! Highlights include stopping outside the beautifully illuminated St. Paul’s Cathedral!

Read more: Best Harry Potter tours in London

20 – Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of London’s Fiery History

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 127 reviews )

“It was a fun and educational tour. I learned so many things about the city I just normally pass and and don’t give a second thought to.” Johanna. Viator

For those looking to delve a bit deeper into the turbulent history of London, look no further than the  Historic London Tours walking adventure. Learn more about the Roman settlers in Londinium and their introduction of urban planning and defensive city walls!

Listen to tales of famous literary figures and artists that have called London home, learn about some of London’s ghosts and power struggles at the  Tower of London and gain further insight into London’s more recent history such as the devastation during the World Wars.

Even if you have visited London many times, we are sure that you will discover something new during this richly informative tour!

Get ready to open your eyes to the rich history underlying each corner of the City of London! It was great to learn more about the mysterious London Stone, an artifact shrouded in legend! Other highlights involved exploring more about Brides Church with a unique wedding cake tier spire!

21 – Street Art Tour of Shoreditch

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 592 reviews )

“Wonderful tour! Really, it could not be better. I kind of only expected only well-known stories of Banksy but instead learnt a lot of new information about various graffiti artists.” Ludmilla. Guruwalk

Uncover the lesser-known sites of Alternative London during a hipster Street Art walking tour around the creative areas of East London. Explore the vibrant streets of Shoreditch and Brick Lane as your guide takes you to look at a wide range of colorful urban graffiti art!

Look out for art legends such as Banksy and Stik and admire a variety of works by over 40 different street artists! Get inspired and reflect on the social messages behind some of these thought-provoking pieces.

In addition to the world of urban art, prepare for a fascinating historic commentary of these East End neighborhoods and their community spirit.

Getting to know the background stories behind the artists and the neighborhood’s history gives these works of street art a whole different level of meaning! Thoroughly absorbed from start to finish and discovered loads of new artists I had never come across. 2 hours passed so quickly!

• street art tours in London

22 – James Bond Walking Tour of London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 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 action-packed and glamorous spy world of 007 during the  Brit Movie Tours James Bond Walking tour! Get a glimpse of a handful of filming locations featured in the Bond films such as the MI6 Headquarters at Vauxhall Cross, the National Gallery where Bond meets Q in front of the Turner painting and Westminster Bridge!

The expert Bond guide will fill you in with heaps of double agent trivia regarding secret film sites, actor gossip and tales of villains and Bond girls. After this intense and educational walking tour, you will fully deserve to sit back and enjoy your martini shaken not stirred.

A well paced walking tour packed with Bond trivia! It was also interesting to learn facts about Fleming himself. Lots of background information on the buildings featured and their history. Will definitely be rewatching the Bond movies after this engaging experience!

• James Bond tours in London

23 – London: Camden Town Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 44 reviews )

“Very interesting to learn about details of the brewery business and seeing the equipment. And of course to taste the different beers. It was a good and funny evening near the Camden market.” Gunnar. Getyourguide

Take a guided tour around the  Camden Town Brewery and dive into a paradise of chilled beer, pale ale and flavorsome lager! Meet professional brewers during your visit who will divulge expert details regarding some of the brewery production processes and secrets.

Inhale the authentic scents of malted barley, sweet hops and fermenting yeasts as you witness the brewery production plant in action. Finish off your tour by sampling a wide range of different style beers in the taproom!

A great way to spend the afternoon with friends before heading to the Camden market. I particularly enjoyed learning to tell the difference between an IPA and a lager and the different production methods. A great introduction to the history of beer brewing for beer buffs and beer amateurs alike!

• beer tasting tours in London

24 – Private Mayfair Chocolate Ecstasy Tour for 2

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 439 reviews )

“I highly recommend this tour. The guide is knowledgeable, fun and the stores are great! I enjoyed seeing Mayfair and Soho too!” Susan. Viator

Treat yourself to an unforgettable gourmet experience with  Chocolate Ecstasy Tours and get familiar with some of the finest chocolatiers and patisseries in central London!

Follow your guide around the streets of Mayfair, Piccadilly and Soho in search of some delicious sweet treats! Learn more about the chocolate production methods and the history of London’s most iconic neighborhoods.

This tour is ideal for chocoholics looking to indulge their sweet tooth! From delicate truffles to warm and creamy hot chocolate explore the rich diversity of chocolate goodies!

Tasty chocolate delights every step of the way during this chocolate themed walking tour. I enjoyed browsing the high end chocolate stores and purchasing a few Christmas gifts along the way. Informative and detailed chocolate explanations and a beautiful walk through Mayfair.

• chocolate tasting tours in London

25 – Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour in London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 556 reviews )

“The ghost tour was my son’s favorite part of our stay in London. George did a fantastic job bringing these tales to life. He received top marks for enthusiasm and dramatic performance.” Mistina. Viator

Get ready for plenty of chilling and spooky ghost stories such as this London walking Ghost tour offered by Meet the Street Tours .

Encounter one of the oldest churches in London, the famous All Hallows- with paranormal activity reported in the depths of its crypts! Gaze up at the Tower of London surrounded by soaring black ravens and the lingering energy of desolate prisoners!

Learn about the beheadings in the Tower courtyard, crimes in London backstreets and bloody murders as you head on a winding journey towards St. Paul’s.

Our guide was an enthralling storyteller who left us feeling very spooked by the gruesome tales of demons and London ghouls! We experienced plenty of lesser known sights along the route and the night time atmosphere added a thrilling element!

26 – Sherlock Holmes 3-Hour Private Guided Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 140 reviews )

“This was a great little walking tour. The tour guide was well-versed in Sherlock Holmes and the various books and films he appeared in and made the experience quite a lot of fun. Highly recommend.” Cathy. Viator

When visiting London, it’s hard not to think of the beloved British detective, the legendary Sherlock Holmes! On this Brit Movie Tours walking adventure, follow your guide around London visiting some essential locations featured in the Sherlock books and the BBC series adaptation.

Delve into the fascinating history of author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and learn where Sherlock met Watson for the first time! Admire the impressive façade of the Royal Academy of Arts, the animated atmosphere of Piccadilly Circus and the grandiose Somerset House and discover their links with the detective world of Sherlock!

The passion of the guide was contagious and fully took us on a journey of the evolution of Sherlock’s character. A great mix of insider knowledge from the various Sherlock books, movies and TV series! The guide’s visual aid notebook also really helped bring the experience to life.

• Sherlock Holmes tours in London

27 – The Ultimate Cheese Crawl

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 274 reviews )

Embark on a walking tour with a mouthwatering cheese twist in the company of  See Your City . Amble around the elegant streets of Mayfair as your cheese loving guide takes you to some of the best places in London to sample some of London’s finest cheese offerings!

Walk through the buzzing Piccadilly Circus, sampling cheese at cheesemongers and counters as you go as you make your way through Little Italy to Covent Garden!

This tour is a great introduction to top-quality British cheeses. Expect plenty of light hearted cheesy jokes and cheese related trivia quizzes as you stroll along!

Delicious cheeses and lots of educational facts! We enjoyed the cheese guessing games and the group bonded really well. A great way to socialize with similar cheese loving fans and we also stocked up on lots of British cheeses to take home for the family.

• cheese tastings tours in London

28 – Free City Tour of London

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 1427 reviews )

“Incredible tour! Damian is such a funny, resourceful and witty guy. Awesome tour and totally recommended!”. Sara. Guruwalk

Join  Guruwalk on one of their epic free walking tours as you cruise around the heart of the capital, the City of London district! Learn about the origins of London that date way back to Roman times, the perilous streets of London during the Medieval Ages along with plenty of stories regarding British monarchs and politicians!

Kick off your journey outside the  Tower of London , home to traditional Beefeaters, the crown jewels and a dark history! Think about the ghosts of Ann Boleyn and the tragic Lady Jane Grey!

Cross over the monumental  Tower Bridge (constructed back in 1894) and follow your guide for a route full of fascinating buildings and markets!

• free walking tours in London

A fascinating journey full of anecdotes, cinema references and detailed historical facts. The guide was super professional throughout the tour, keeping the group fully engaged. Explanations were clear and with an evident passion for the rich history of London.

Read more: Best free walking tours in London

How to book walking tours in London?

Booking a walking tour may seem overwhelming because there are many different companies offering walking tours in London, and many travel websites selling the tours online.

Many sites offer discounts, so the price may vary from one website to another. Make things easy and use the Tourscanner search engine to compare offers, check out more reviews, and obtain the best possible deal on prices!

• compare walking tours in London

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 5 Historical Walks in London You’ll Love Taking

Today I want to share my top picks for historical walks in London with you. These self-guided London walking tours are great ways to get into the city’s past and discover the layers of heritage that make the UK capital special. If you love history, they’re perfect London walks for you to take to explore the city’s past from ancient times to modern ones. Read on for the routes, maps, photos, and videos.

Historical Walks in London

From Roman ruins in the City of London to Palladian residences in Greenwich, my self-guided historical walks in London will take you to some of the most iconic places in the city.

You’ll pass by big attractions like Westminster Abbey and lesser-known landmarks like the 12th-century Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great. Along the way, you’ll get a feel for London’s architectural history.

But it’s not all old stuff. London is a living city, and its streets and squares are ever-changing. Interspersed among the heritage buildings you’ll find colorful street art, vibrant markets, and great shops, restaurants, pubs, and cafes.

I hope you enjoy these London history tours as much as I’ve enjoyed creating them. My self-guided London walks are fun ways to see the UK capital and get some exercise while you’re at it.

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

1. City of London Walk

First on my list of historical walks in London is one in the City of London . This area has some of the richest history and most important heritage buildings in the UK capital.

This walk will transport you through past and present, wide squares and hidden courtyards, historic halls and centuries-old pubs.

Along the way you’ll see everything from the Tower of London to St Paul’s Cathedral and The Monument to the Great Fire of London.

This walk is ideal if you want to delve into London’s deepest roots. You can find the directions, map, photos, and video on my City of London walking tour blog post.

2. Greenwich Walk

Next on my list of historical London walking tours is Greenwich . This part of the city is known for its maritime history, royal residences, famous observatory, covered market, and great London views .

My self-guided London walk will take you from the River Thames to the Royal Observatory and through the markets and side streets.

Along the route you’ll take in everything from the Cutty Sark to the National Maritime Museum, Old Royal Naval College, and London skyline.

This walk is perfect if you like a mix of culture, shopping, and history. You can find the full route, map, photos, and video on my Greenwich walk blog post.

3. Spitalfields Walk

When it comes to east London history walks, my Spitalfields walk is a good choice. Spitalfields is one of the city’s most vibrant areas. Historic houses and buildings sit side-by-side with contemporary street art, markets, and pop-ups.

This London walk goes through the neighborhood’s colorful streets and hidden lanes. Along the way you’ll pass everything from 18th-century Huguenot silk weavers’ homes to pretty almshouses.

Sunday is the best day to be here, as the Sunday markets on and around Brick Lane are legendary. You can make a day of this walk if you take your time and explore them all.

This walk is perfect if you enjoy a mix of history and shopping. You can find the route, map, photos, and video on my Spitalfields walking tour blog post.

4. Westminster Walk

Next on my list of historical walks in London is one in Westminster . This area is home to a lot of big attractions, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.

My self-guided London walk will take you from Parliament Square to Smith Square and beyond. The route will guide you past historic highlights like the 19th-century Victoria Tower and the 14th-century Jewel Tower.

This walk is a great choice if you like London landmarks and hidden corners alike. You can find the route, map, and photos on my Westminster walk blog post.

5. Clerkenwell Walk

My fifth historical walk in London goes through Clerkenwell and the surrounding area. This part of the UK capital is full of heritage. It’s home to some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in London, too.

My self-guided London walking tour in Clerkenwell will take you through historic passageways, under stone archways, and down an alley with an old pub hidden in it.

As you go from Clerkenwell to Smithfield and Hatton Garden, you’ll pass everything from the 16th-century St Bartholomew’s Gatehouse to the 13th-century St Etheldreda’s Church.

You’ll also walk down Exmouth Market, one of the best foodie streets in London. It’s a great place to stop for a meal or drink along the way.

This London walk is just the thing if you like history and food in equal measure. You can find the route, map, photos, and video on my Clerkenwell walking tour blog post.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these self-guided London walking tours as much as I’ve enjoyed coming up with the routes and maps. Historic details are some of the best things about London, and these tours are a great way to to see them.

Beyond the walks, I’ve published a lot more about London’s history. From a blog post with a historic London travel itinerary to a guide to London architecture history , there’s plenty to delve into.

I have more self-guided historical London walks in the pipeline, too. They’ll all end up here and on my London walking map once I’ve published them. You can bookmark this page or pin it on Pinterest to see the new ones as I add them. Happy walking!

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4 Comments on Lady’s 5 Historical Walks in London You’ll Love Taking

Thank you so much for your tour. I wish London to preserve its historical attitude in spite of the modern temptations. The buildings (especially the less good-looking), their arrangement can lecture on the city’s history. Thank you so much. Greetings from Minsk, Belarus (between Russia and Poland)

You’re welcome! I’m glad you like London’s history.

It was wonderful taking this tour from the comfort of my couch. Being there in person would be even better, but right now I would have to use a wheelchair to do the walk. Thank you for making it so real!

You’re welcome!

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The murders of Jack the Ripper

Tickets for The murders of Jack the Ripper in London 🎫 Standard

Highlights 🔎 Hear stories about Jack the Ripper's crimes and his victims, while learning about London's history 👀 See the sights in more detail than on a car or bus tour 👻 An entertaining, informative, and creepy tour ideal for groups of friends traveling together 🚶‍♂️ Active travelers will enjoy this walking tour

General Info 📅 Date: Select your date directly in the ticket selector 🕒 Time: 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. ⏳ Duration: 3 hours 📍 Location: Aldgate Station 👤 Age Requirement: all ages are welcome. The tour contains mature themes, visitor discretion advised

Description: Come along for a chilling tour that starts right outside Aldgate tube station and will transport you to the dark streets of Victorian London. Traverse different historic neighborhoods as you follow Jack the Ripper's footsteps. Explore the sites of his most infamous crimes and hear tales of his gruesome deeds. Once you've faced your fears alongside other curious travelers, walk into a local pub for a refreshing drink. Don't be afraid to peer into one of London's darkest chapters in history and get your tickets now!

How to get there?

Aldgate Station

Aldgate High St, London, EC3N 1AH

Select date and session

No booking fees

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Journey Through Time: A Tour To Stonehenge From London For History Enthusiasts

Have you ever dreamt of walking amongst the giants of history, of unraveling the mysteries whispered by ancient stones?

A trip to Stonehenge from London offers history enthusiasts exactly that: a chance to stand before a monument that has transcended millennia, a testament to a civilization shrouded in time.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the allure of Stonehenge, its historical significance, and the practicalities of planning your own unforgettable visit to London.

We’ll explore the best times to visit, different travel options, and the essentials you’ll need to pack for this unique adventure.

And for those who crave an even deeper connection, we’ll explore special access tours and nearby historical sites that enrich the Stonehenge experience.

So, stick with us to the end!

Significance of Stonehenge: Unraveling the Mystery

Stonehenge’s origins are as fascinating as they are shrouded in uncertainty. Archaeologists estimate its construction began around 3000 BC and continued for nearly 2000 years. The sheer scale of the undertaking is astounding.

These massive sarsen stones, weighing up to 25 tons each, were transported from over 20 miles away. How this feat was achieved remains a subject of much debate.

Beyond its physical presence, Stonehenge held immense cultural significance.

It served as a focal point for rituals and ceremonies for millennia. Theories abound on its purpose: a celestial calendar, a temple dedicated to sun worship, or even a burial ground for the elite.

Each theory adds another layer of intrigue to this remarkable monument.

Planning Your Trip: A Guide for History Buffs

To maximize your experience, a little pre-planning goes a long way. So, continue reading below:-

1. Best Times to Visit

Stonehenge’s popularity fluctuates throughout the year. Here’s a quick guide to choosing the ideal time for your visit:

Tranquil Exploration: For a serene experience with fewer crowds, aim for the shoulder seasons – spring (April-May) or fall (October-November).

Winter Solstice Spectacle: Witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over Stonehenge on the winter solstice (around December 21st). However, tickets for this limited-access event sell out very quickly, so advanced booking is essential.

Pleasant Weather: Summer (June-August) offers the most pleasant weather but also brings peak crowds. Prepare for potentially longer wait times and busier viewing areas.

2. Getting There

Reaching Stonehenge from London is a breeze, with options catering to different preferences and budgets. Consider guided Stonehenge tours from london for a hassle-free experience.

These tours typically include comfortable transportation by coach, entrance fees to the monument, and the invaluable expertise of a knowledgeable guide who can share fascinating insights about Stonehenge throughout the journey.

These guides often provide commentary through a personal audio headset, allowing you to explore the site at your own pace while receiving insightful information about the monument’s history and significance.

For the independent traveler, public transportation offers a cost-effective option.

Trains run from London Waterloo Station to Salisbury, the nearest major city to Stonehenge. From there, you can connect with a dedicated Stonehenge tour bus or grab a taxi for the final leg of your journey.

Remember to factor in potential connection times and plan accordingly.

Finally, renting a car offers the ultimate flexibility. Take the scenic route, stopping at charming villages along the way, and enjoy the freedom to explore the surrounding area at your own pace. Just be sure to factor in parking fees at the Stonehenge visitor center.

3. What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and enriching experience, pack these essentials:

Comfortable Walking Shoes: The path around Stonehenge is well-maintained but involves walking on uneven ground. Choose sturdy shoes with a good grip for navigating the terrain.

Weatherproof Gear: English weather can be unpredictable. Pack a waterproof jacket or poncho to shield yourself from sudden showers.

Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong. Bring sunscreen and a hat to prevent sunburn.

Snacks: While limited food options are available near Stonehenge, you can bring your own snacks if you prefer. Opt for lightweight, energy-boosting options like granola bars, nuts, or fruits.

Camera: Capture the awe-inspiring sight of Stonehenge for posterity. Consider bringing a camera with a good zoom lens to capture details of the stones from afar.

Remember, avoid bringing bulky items or anything that could damage the monument or the surrounding landscape. By packing smartly, you can maximize your enjoyment of this historical landmark.

Beyond Stonehenge: Exploring Nearby Historical Sites

Don’t limit your journey to just this iconic monument. Here are a few captivating historical sites that deserve a spot on your itinerary:

1. Avebury Henge

This remarkable prehistoric site in Wiltshire, England, is larger and older than the more famous Stonehenge. This massive Neolithic monument , dating back to around 2500 BC, consists of a large circular stone circle surrounding a village, making it unique.

Unlike Stonehenge, visitors can walk among the stones, touching and feeling their ancient energy. The site is part of a wider landscape of ceremonial monuments, including burial mounds and other henges.

Avebury offers a deeply atmospheric and intimate experience, inviting you to wander through its stones and explore the mysteries of Britain’s prehistoric past in a way that’s not possible at its more famous counterpart.

2. Salisbury Cathedral

It is standing majestically in the heart of Salisbury, England, and is a testament to the ingenuity and devotion of medieval architecture. Constructed in the 13th century, it has the most impressive church spire in the United Kingdom, rising 123 meters (404 feet) to the top.

This architectural marvel is not just about its impressive facade; inside, it houses one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta, a cornerstone document in the history of democracy.

Visitors are captivated by the cathedral’s stunning stained glass windows, which illuminate the interior with vibrant colors, and its ancient clock, which is considered one of the oldest working mechanical clocks in the world.

Surrounded by a tranquil Close, Salisbury Cathedral offers a peaceful retreat as well as a rich historical journey, making it a must-visit for those interested in history, architecture, or spirituality.

3. Old Sarum

Old Sarum, located in Wiltshire, England, is an ancient settlement that combines centuries of history in one fascinating site. This Iron Age hillfort was later transformed by the Romans, Saxons, and Normans, each leaving their mark.

It’s known for the ruins of a castle, a cathedral, and an old town, offering a tangible link to England’s medieval past. Perched on a hill, Old Sarum provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a historical treasure and a scenic spot.

The site encapsulates over 2,000 years of human endeavor, from its strategic military origins to its role in early English governance.

Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this once-thriving community, walking through the ruins and imagining life as it once was.

Old Sarum invites you to step back in time and experience the layered history of this remarkable place.

A tour to Stonehenge from London is more than just a sightseeing expedition; it’s a journey through time. It allows you to step outside the confines of the present and connect with the echoes of a forgotten past.

So, are you ready to embark on your historical expedition to Stonehenge?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

The post Journey Through Time: A Tour To Stonehenge From London For History Enthusiasts appeared first on Kellys Thoughts On Things .

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2-4-1 London Witches & History Walking Tour

Experience London’s wicked history and see famous sights on this spellbindingly unique walking tour, led by a bewitching guide!

Select date and time

• Friday April 19 4:00 PM
• Friday April 19 6:00 PM
• Saturday April 20 4:00 PM
• Sunday April 21 4:00 PM
• Sunday April 21 6:00 PM
• More options

Southwark View Point

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About this event.

Grab your 241 tickets for the hottest witch tour in town!

Are you ready to learn historical facts? Are you ready to be thoroughly entertained?

Join your characterful witch guide and learn the true historical tales of suspected London witches across the ages. Witness fascinating pieces of London history along the way too; secrets of Southwark Cathedral, The Golden Hinde, The Globe Theatre, Millennium Bridge and so very much more await on this character led walking tour.

Starting by the infamous London Bridge your friendly costumed witch guide will lead you across Southwark's Bankside cobbles, seamlessly weaving history with vibrant storytelling. Widen your eyes to the tales of London’s real witches as you uncover the truth about the likes of Nicholas Culpepper – people’s herbalist or bad boy herb doctor? Was Elizabeth Barton really that gifted? What about Jinny Bingham, did she deserve the nickname “Mother Damnable"? And did Old Joan Butts get off Scot-Free? You make your own mind up on this magical educational journey to the past.

You will wind your way down Winchester Walk, bob around the edges of Borough Market, clatter your way down Clink Street and buzz down Bankside. An intriguing Tudor ship and ruined Winchester Palace cannot be missed along the way. Your faithful guide will happily point out a certain Elizabethan dramatic playhouse as well as the breathtakingly iconic landmarks across the river including the majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral of course…

In an experience that brings together true stories, history, and a wisdom that we can learn from our terrible ways of the past, you are sure to fall in love with this historic small part of the city and be enthralled by London’s witchy chronicles. You may even see and hear of some famous Harry Potter filming locations along the way!

Don’t miss the chance to join London’s wonderful Witches & History Magical Walking Tour and see things as you never have before…

*Please note this is an outdoor walking tour so dress for the weather, my dears.

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