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18 unusual London tours: quirky & fun options

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

Looking across the Thames and Millennium Bridge to St Paul's Cathedral at night. Discover unusual London tours, guaranteed to make your time in the city special.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unusual London tours by day

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

People walking across Millennium Bridge In London at dusk.

Get Around Quickly

1. Harry Potter Walking Tour

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

Be sure to tip your guide at the end!

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

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

2. Climb the Roof of the O2

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

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

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

Street art in London of a Chanel bottle full of skulls.

3. Street Art Tour

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

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

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

Inside Euston's 'lost' tunnels, which you can explore as part of a Hidden London Tour.

4. Hidden London Tours

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

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

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

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

5. The London Loo Tour

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

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

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

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

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Sprawling cemetery in London.

6. Tour Highgate Cemetery

Why not take a stroll through Highgate Cemetery ?

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

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

7. James Bond Walking Tour

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

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

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

8. Unseen Tours

Unseen Tours are tours with a philanthropic difference.

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

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

↠ RELATED: BEST DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON

Baker Street Station, with the profile of Sherlock Homes on its walls.

9. Hidden City

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

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

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

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

10. See Secret London by Bike

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

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

A woman in a red raincoat standing in Deptford Creek in London's southeast.

11. Deptford Creek Tour

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

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

↠ RELATED: A WILD DAY OUT AT DEPTFORD CREEK

12. Medicine & Disease Tour

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

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

13. London by kayak

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

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

All equipment is provided.

Close up of some of the goodies on offer at the Ritz Hotel's afternoon tea.

14. Afternoon Tea Tour

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

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

15. Gin Distillery Tour

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

Unusual London Tours By Night

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

Nighttime in London, looking at the Thames and London Eye. Discover unusual tours in London to do by night.

16. Secret Indian Food Tour

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

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

Start this unique London tour with an empty stomach.

17. London Literary Pub Crawl

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

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

Tour guides of Herstorical tours in costume.

18. Herstorical Tours

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

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

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

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

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

Purple front door of a London residence.

Where to stay in London

Opps, I pinned it again 📌

Think you've seen all that London has to offer? Think again. Here are 19 offbeat tours you can do in the English capital.

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

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

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

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15 Best Walking Tours in London

By Julia Buckley

London Walking Tour shoreditch

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.

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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 Walking Tour Fire Walk

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.

London Walking Tour Jermyn Street Fashion Walk

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.

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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.

London Walking Tour Harry Potter

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 Walking Tour Soho pubs tour

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.

London Walking Tour shoreditch

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.

London Walking Tour Walk eat Talk Eat

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.

London Walking Tour London Theater tour

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.

London Walking Tour Camden Market

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 Walking Tour Loo tours

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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London x London

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

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 .

House of Minalima

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 

Sherlock Holmes Museum

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

CityDays - Leadenhall Market

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

Jack the Ripper

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

Half Day London Food Tour 

Waffle On

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 

St Paul's Cathedral

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 

Anchor Pub London Bridge

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 

Lush jungle in the Barbican Conservatory

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 

Tower Bridge at Night

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 

One of the Graves in the Cemetery

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 

London Mithraeum

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 

Leadenhall Market

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 

Soho London

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 

La Bodega Negra

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 

Tower Bridge

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

Kensington Palace

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

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

Explore London’s Palaces on this tour

London Cheese Tour

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

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

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

Say Cheese! On this foodie tour

Kensington Palace Gardens Tour with Royal High Tea

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

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

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

Live like a king on this Kensington Palace Gardens tour

British Museum Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

The Beatles Walking Tour 

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

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

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

Beat the Beatle mania on this London tour

Go Behind the Scenes at Wembley Stadium 

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

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

You can even have a nosey around the Royal Box. 

Take an access-all-areas tour of Wembley Stadium

Practical Tips for Booking a London Walking Tour 

Free london walking tour vs paid tour .

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

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

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

Booking a London Walking Tour 

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

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

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Love and London

12 Unique Tours to Take While Visiting London

Right, so let me guess– you’re not looking for the same old boring London walking tour. You want something different and unique. GOOD! This article covers some of the most unique tours in London that you could book onto while you’re visiting. Go for a yummy food tour that also shows you London street art, learn about Black history around the city that is rarely talked about on traditional tours, or even make your way around Central London on a tour in an antique mini cooper.

*Some of the links in this article will earn a very small commission if you click them and then purchase something.

unique walking tours london

Image Courtesy of Eating Europe

1. East End London Food Tour

This is the number one tour I recommend to Love and London-ers, for a few reasons. It’s a unique combo of walking tour in a very interesting, eclectic area — Shoreditch and Spitalfields in east London — plus yummy food tour. It doesn’t just cover British dishes, but other foods that are important to the history of the area. Plus, you’ll see some street art too.

Eating Europe runs this tour, as well as some others in London and other cities around the continent. They’re a small biz with fantastically-knowledgeable local tour guides. Also have a look at their Soho Twilight Tour for another unique option.

Book the East End London Food Tour

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - Unique tours to try in London

Image Courtesy of Virgin Experiences

2. Bermondsey Beer Tasting Tour with a Cheeseboard

Deep in Bermondsey, an area that many locals aren’t aware of (unless you’ve watched my Areas to Visit That You’ve Never Heard Of video ), there’s the Bermondsey Beer Mile. It’s a bunch of distilleries housed in the Network Rail arches, close enough to make it possible to do a distillery hop on certain days of the week. If you’ve got a beer-lover with you in London, experience this unique tour in London with this microbrewery. Plus you get to pair your beer samples with a delectable cheese board from the local cheesemonger Neal’s Yard Dairy, featuring three kinds of cheese and crackers.

Book this Bermondsey Beer Tasting Tour

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - Best tours to do in London

Image Courtesy of Chocolate Ecstasy Tours

3. Chocolate Ecstasy Tour

If you like sweets, specifically chocolate and/or ice cream, hop on one of Chocolate Ecstasy’s tours. The founder, Jennifer Earle, is a top expert in the fine chocolate industry, so she knows the best independent shops and vendors to take you to. Tours are limited to eight people and you get to eat lots of treats, duh.

Book a tour with Chocolate Ecstasy Tours

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - Best tours to do in London

Image Courtesy of Black History Walks

4. Black History Walks

So much of London and English history is whitewashed, and that runs into traditional walking tours around the city. I highly recommend all London tourists to take at least one Black History Walk as it’s incredibly insightful and eye opening. I recently did one around Notting Hill and learned so much about the Black history in the area, which is NEVER talked about in typical guide books or Notting Hill tours, which tend to focus just on pretty houses and spots from the movie.

See what Black History Walks tours are happening when you’re in London

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - Best stadium tours to take in London

Image Courtesy of Wimbledon

5. Wimbledon Museum & Grounds Tour

Even if your London trip doesn’t fall over the two weeks that Wimbledon happens, you can still tour the grounds and pretend like you’re there, watching the major matches on Centre Court. Plus, during this tour, you get to see tons of behind-the-scenes areas that you wouldn’t during the tournament, like the media room and the Player’s Entrance. I definitely recommend also booking tickets to the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, which is a very cool and interactive museum, even for non-tennis-lovers (me!)

Book the Wimbledon Tour

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - Best distilleries to tour in London

6. Sipsmith Gin Distillery Tour

Londoners feel pretty prideful about Sipsmith Gin, and you can tour the Chiswick distillery to see how it’s all made. Book through Virgin Experience Days and you’ll also get a gin tasting (this is very important.)

Afterwards, I recommend exploring Chiswick, it’s a beautiful village-like town that has lots of great secondhand shops, pubs and restaurants.

Book the Sipsmith Gin Distillery Tour

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - Different tours to try in London

Image Courtesy of Growing Underground

7. Growing Underground Urban Farm Tour

Sat in an old WWII bunker 33 meters under the streets of Clapham is the world’s first underground farm. Here, farmers are growing micro-greens that supply restaurants and shops around London, providing produce that takes much less water, waste and resources to produce. Sustainability for the win…

The urban farm occasionally does tours you can get tickets for, so if you’re an eco-nerd like me, this is a super unique tour to do while in London.

Find out more about the Growing Underground Farm Tour

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - Best architecture tours in east london

8. Barbican Architecture Tour

The Barbican Estate, with around 2,000 homes, started being built in 1965 and was completed in 1976. The idea was to regenerate the area after it was mostly destroyed during WWII, and it was designed in the Brutalist architecture style. It’s a unique estate full of interesting Brutalist design choices, with lots of seating areas and water features to enjoy, as well as some spots to get food and drinks.

This tour takes you across the Barbican Centre and surrounding Brutalist estate for about 90 minutes. You’ll learn about the vision and ambition behind the design, and gain insight into the past, present and future of the site.

Find out more about Barbican Architecture Tours

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - What are the best tours in london to do

Image Courtesy of Women of London

9. Women of London Tour

If you’ve ever felt like there’s just TOO MANY MEN being featured in tours, well, here’s a tour for you. Women of London do tours that teach you about the women that have had a huge impact on London in the last few centuries. They have a few tours like “Women of Westminster” and “Working Women of the East End”, both of which are really highly rated. I love indie companies that offer tours that are unique and help teach tourists about the side of London that most don’t know about, especially when it comes to minorities that made a huge difference in London.

Find out more about Women of London tours: Women of Westminster , Women of Bloomsbury and Working Women of the East End .

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - Most unique tours in London to take

Image Courtesy of Bowie Tours

10. David Bowie Music Tour

David Bowie is one of the city’s most famous and beloved Londoners, and if you’re a fan, you can take one of two David Bowie Music Tours, either in Soho or Brixton, two areas that were integral to his life. During the tour, you’ll be serenaded by acoustic versions of his songs.

Book a David Bowie Music Tour

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London - Top private tours in London

Image Courtesy of Viator

11. London Private Tour in a Classic Car

Go on one of the most unique tours in London– by mini cooper. You’ll have your own private guide driving you by some major sights in London and some lesser-known areas, telling you bits and bobs about each place you see. It lasts around two hours and you’ll also have plenty of photo stops, and hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Book a London Private Tour in a Classic Car

12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London

12.  LGBTQ+ history tour in SoHo

Image Courtesy of London with a local

London’s Soho dates back to the 1600s, the area has been the epicentre of the queer community. It played a big part in much of London’s LGBTQ+ history, from being frequented by Oscar Wilde as highlighted in his 1895 trials, to Soho becoming the go-to area for underground queer bars and clubs in the 1930s. To this day, Soho has retained this reputation, giving the community a place to feel relatively safe, have fun and meet like-minded people.

You can learn more about all of this with the Queer & LGBTQ+ History Tour, a free walking tour run by London With a Local to “explore the vast and complex history of LGBTQ+ life in London, with stories of iconic people and places who have shaped the city and community through the centuries”.

Book the LGBTQ+ History Tour

Which of these unique tours in London have you now booked for your trip? Let me know in comments, and if you share a photo of your tour on Instagram, tag @LoveandLondon so our community and I can see.

More London tips: 

  • 12 Unique Experiences You Should Totally Try in London
  • 12 Unique Afternoon Teas to Try in London

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12 Unique Tours To Take While Visiting London

Jessica Dante

Jess is the founder of Love and London, an online travel guide that helps London tourists to visit London like they live there. She's been featured in Refinery29, Forbes, BBC Radio 2, HuffPost, and more. Jess is also a sustainable and ethical travel advocate.

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14 Unusual Tours In London You Need To Try

Published on: 11th December 2023

If there’s one thing that’s truly unique about London, it’s the amount of walking you have to do around the city to really get to see and appreciate what the bustling metropolitan hub has to offer. Visiting the city for the first time can be daunting with all the attractions you may have on your to-do list. 

London’s top tour guides have taken to the streets, offering incredible tours you can do on foot, and others that show you a different side of the city - letting you explore sites you won’t see on your typical postcard. If you’re looking to experience something different in London, then you have to get involved with one of these unusual tours in London . 

London High Tea Bus Tour

London is famous for its high tea and classic red buses. The London High Tea Bus Tour combines these two iconic concepts and takes you through the city the old-fashioned way, while you dine on crustless sandwiches, delicious pastries and an abundance of different flavoured teas. This is certainly one of the more unusual tours to do in London, albeit one of the more glamorous. 

unique walking tours london

London Gin Distillery Tour and Gin Making 

London is home to some of the most well-known gins around and the spirit has certainly become one of the pinnacles of the city’s culture. The London distillery is home to one name gin lovers are well-versed with - none other than Whitley Neil. The tour will take you around the surprisingly small distillery, explaining the process behind making your favourite tipple. You’ll also get to enjoy a gin tasting, where you’ll get to sample an array of flavours from the gin brand. 

unique walking tours london

Self-Guided Blue Plaque Walk 

If there’s one thing that helps you out when navigating the streets of London, it’s a little bit of local knowledge. Here’s a tip for you - if you’re walking around some of London’s older areas , you may notice some blue plaques on some of the buildings. Stop for a minute and take a look at the names on these signs. These plaques tell passers-by about the influential people who lived and worked in these buildings. Although there is no formal tour for these, it’s a great way to see the city on a self-guided mission. 

unique walking tours london

Fashion Sustainability Shopping Tour

Do you have a flair for fashion but are unsure of where the best places are to shop for your next new look ? The Sustainable Fashion and Shopping Tour will take shoppers to all the best retail spots, specifically those who are making a real effort to practise sustainability in their manufacturing and materials sourcing processes. This is a great way to get to know the London fashion scene and indulge in some guilt-free retail therapy while learning a thing or two. 

unique walking tours london

Jack The Ripper Tour

As with any major city, London has a rich history , not all of which is a testament to the hub of success it is today. The Jack the Ripper Tour takes you through the gruesome shenanigans of one of history’s most feared killers. Guests are guided through the borough of Whitechapel which is where the famed villain operated. This is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in true crime and is keen on learning more about the depths of London’s history. 

unique walking tours london

Harry Potter Walking Tour

The Harry Potter walking tour is the perfect activity to do with the kids or anyone who is a keen fan. Although there are several Harry Potter-themed tours around the city, the Tour For Muggles is by far the best one to do. During the tour, you’ll see some of the sites from the famous movie and encounter some of the points of inspiration behind JK Rowling's bestsellers. 

unique walking tours london

Street Art Walking Tour

London is home to some of the most talented street artists around, making the walls of the city come to life with colour and thought-provoking imagery. This unusual tour takes you through inner-city London and tells you about the concepts and culture behind graffiti art, and street art as well as a bit about the artists themselves. This unusual London tour shows guests the creative side of London and provides interesting insights into the world of underground art. 

unique walking tours london

Hidden London and Underground Tours

Delve into London’s hidden past in underground walking tours. These expeditions allow you to discover some of the best-hidden gems in the city as well as some historical secret locations like disused tunnels, forgotten crypts, and clandestine chambers that reveal centuries of history. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours offer a unique perspective on London's past, from mediaeval times to wartime bunkers. These tours are perfect for anyone who wants to learn about the underground side of the city. 

unique walking tours london

James Bond Walking Tour

After 60 years of Bond, the films have been shot in some of the most iconic places in the English capital. On the James Bond walking tour, you’ll be guided around some of the sites used as sets in the films, including Kings Cross, Vauxhall, and Trafalgar Square while hearing about the sites and how they featured in the famous film series. 

In this unusual London tour, you’ll get to experience the glamour and intrigue of MI6, explore the settings of thrilling car chases, and visit some of the luxurious haunts frequented by the suave 007.

unique walking tours london

Hidden City Cryptic Tour

This is one for the brainboxes. The Hidden City tour is a treasure hunt where you have to follow the clues given to you in order to get to the locations on the tour before learning about them upon your arrival. The tour is done via text, where guests receive messages with clues guiding them to their next destination. This is a great way to see the city of London and combine it with a fun activity to do with the whole family. 

unique walking tours london

Indian Food Tour

London's love affair with Indian food is more than a mere culinary trend; it's a reflection of the deep historical ties between the UK and India. On the tour, you’ll get to delight in the aromatic spices, intricate flavours, and diverse regional dishes that have found a second home in London. The tour takes you from the historic Brick Lane to Southall's Little India and reveals the hidden gems to guests. 

Your guide will also tell you the stories behind these restaurants, including those of migration, trade, and cultural exchange that have made Indian cuisine an integral and beloved part of London's culinary identity. This is the ideal tour of London for those who have a thing for tantalising curries, flavourful street food, and sweet Indian delicacies.

unique walking tours london

Underground Urban Farm Tour

Ever heard of an underground farm? The world’s first one is located in an old bunker near Clapham. With an increasing population and less and less space for agricultural infrastructure, the farm was established in an effort to explore new spaces for farming. 

On this tour, you’ll get to hear about all the ins and outs of what it takes to run an underground farm and enjoy learning about the equipment, operations and prospects of underground farming for the future. The farm currently supplies local restaurants with micro greens to incorporate into their dishes and serves as a pioneer for sustainable farming. 

unique walking tours london

London’s Women Tour

Although a lot of London’s history revolves around powerful and influential men, this tour serves as a way to appreciate the women who helped shape the course of London’s history. There are several tours that allow guests to learn about the various roles women played in different parts of London, including around Westminster and even in the manual labour boroughs of East London. This tour is a great way to learn about stories less told and about the powerful women who helped make London into the city it is today. 

unique walking tours london

Medicine and Disease Tour

There are several events that shaped London’s medicinal history and gave rise to the likes of Florence Nightingale and the NHS. On this tour, you’ll delve into the history of London’s most significant epidemics, and visit the sites of some of the first medical establishments in the city. 

London has also been the home of several medical breakthroughs, and its medical institutions have been home to innovative advances in the global medical sector. If you’re at all interested in the history of medicine and want to learn more about the pandemic history of the city, then this tour is certainly one not to be missed. 

unique walking tours london

With so many unusual tours in London to choose from, you’ll certainly leave the city feeling more enriched with knowledge not many others know about. From fun high tea bus tours to delving into the grimmer parts of London’s history, you’re spoiled for choice. 

If you want more inspiration on how to spend your time in London during your visit, check out the Love To Visit website for more unusual things to do in London. 

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Tourists on Westminster Bridge, London, on a sunny day

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

Food Walking tour: West to East

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.

Kensington Palace Gardens tour with Royal High Tea

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!

Three-hour secret British food tour

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.

Harry Potter walking tour

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.

Westminster and the Churchill War Rooms

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.

Changing of the Guard guided walking tour

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.

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

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.

Historic pub walking tour

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.

Private Sherlock Holmes walking tour

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.

Blood and Tears walk

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).

Greenwich highlights half-day walking tour

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. 

Jack the Ripper tour with fish and chips

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.

Bowl of Chalk walking tours

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.

Unseen Tours

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.

East End street art walking tour

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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Quirky Walks And Tours In London

It's easy to get to see the big sights of a city, but to really get to know a place you have to spend some time down its side alleys. Get away from the tourist traps and discover some local landmarks with one of these cool and quirky London tours. From the best beers in Bermondsey to movie-scene spots and the sordid secrets of the city's ghoulish and ghastly history, read our recommendations for the best quirky walks and tours in London.

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 10th April 2024

Haunted London Pub Tour

@ Temple Underground Station on Various dates from Saturday 20th April 2024

  • Something A Little Different ⋅ Walks & Tours
  • Tickets from £17.50

London Premier Walking Tours

Searching for quirky things to do in the city? London Premier Walking Tours are bringing you a fun outdoor event sure to remember. Get stuck into themes from Shakespeare and Sweeney Todd to outdoor  treasure hunts  across the city.

Ale Hunters

Ale Hunters is a unique walking tour and beer experience taking place across London's best pubs, craft breweries and taprooms. Get the low-down on the creation process while picking up expert knowledge and maybe even sampling a few sips along the way. 

See Your City

Eyes this way, Potter fans! Fancy getting up close and personal with some actual, real-life Harry Potter filming locations? What about being sorted into a Hogwarts house and using your superior spell knowledge to outwit other houses? Well this quirky London tour will be bringing you all that a then some. You can leave your Firebolt at home as this tour takes you on foot from the entrance to Diagon Alley, past the Leaky Cauldron and all the way to Platform 9 3/4. There's other tours if you're not into Harry Potter!

Looking for a quirky way to get around the city? Check out Bustronome, where you'll be treated to amazing views atop a double decker; all while tucking into a mouthwatering menu with specially paired wines. You've never seen this before.

  • Central London

BucketRace Scavenger Hunts

From an Easter-themed hunt to a summer special and the winter wind down, the Bucket Race is bringing you a fun group activity come rain or shine. With teams of up to 4 competing to complete various tasks around London, this is one if you're looking for something a bit different.

Best Tours have been around for over 15 years, with expert guides teaching you all about a range of topics as you stroll around the city. They host these walks every day of the week, with themes ranging from Harry potter to The Beatles to ghost tours of Mayfair. You can even catch the Changing of the Guard too, with these tours coming in at just £25 per person.

StreetHunt Games

Can you crack the case? StreetHunt Games is putting your mystery solving skills to the test, with their quirky outdoor activity that combines a scavenger hunt with amateur sleuthing. Better yet, this self-guided experience is fully flexible and lets you see some of the most interesting streets in London.

Musical Bingo: Silent Disco Trail - City of London

@ Dabbers Bingo on Saturday 4th and Saturday 18th May 2024

Something a little different to the usual walks and tours of London is Dabbers Bingo's offering of a Musical Bingo: Silent Disco Trail through the City of London. Grab your mates and embark on an adventure filled with music to your ears only, as you visit famous sites that become the stage for your adventure. What's more, there will be an array of games, plus a complimentary cocktail to see you on your way. 

  • Clubbing ⋅ Immersive ⋅ Something A Little Different
  • Tickets from £23.00
  • City of London

CityDays London

CityDays' interactive treasure hunts are the perfect way to explore your local area. Clues and trails are sent to your phone, so all you need to do is strap on a pair of comfy shoes and get adventuring.

  • City of London ⋅ Central London
  • Activity ⋅ Event Space

Silent Disco Walking Tours #silenttours

Ready to groove? From West End Musicals to Drag, Silent Disco Walking Tours has got all the themed-events you could want. Sing, dance and celebrate to your heart's content at The West End Musical Tour or unleash your inner diva on the Drag Queen Disco Diva Tour featuring hits from Spice Girls, Madonna, Kylie, Lady Gaga, and more.

Rock Cab Tours

@ Various Venues, London on Various dates from Thursday 11th April 2024

Calling all music lovers: this rock n roll tour is just for you. With over two decades in the music industry, Stephen Channell invites you for a black cab tour of some of London's most iconic musical landmarks; from Jimi Hendrix's flat to the location where Bowie shot his iconic Ziggy Stardust cover.

  • Daytime ⋅ Live Music ⋅ Something A Little Different
  • Tickets from £300.00 - £600.00

An X-Rated Tour Of London

When it comes to all things cheeky in the city, we're on the pulse. From secret kinky spots to historic tales like you've never heard before, we've come up with our very own x-rated tour of London, one sexy detail at a time. 

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Europe Travel Blog

37 Unique Experiences in London in 2024 – Labyrinths, Virtual Reality and HotTugs

unique walking tours london

In an effort to move away from the typical tourist scene and explore more than just the iconic landmarks, we’ve put together this guide to the best and unique experiences in London.

So forget visiting Big Ben and taking a ride on the London Eye, here we have immersive experiences that are off-the-beaten-path. There’s so much more worth exploring in the English capital, and in this guide, we’ll show you the best London unique experiences along with unusual experiences in London.

Sure, London has some iconic and must-see sights. There is no doubt about that.

It’s just sometimes you get sick of tourist crowds and well, just being a tourist, right?

  • Unique Experiences in London
  • HotTug down London’s canals
  • Secret 1920s party
  • Virtual Reality games
  • Forage and Feast tour
  • Visit Banksy’s graffiti area
  • Laser tag a Zombie
  • Fine Dining by Bus
  • Sleep on a Canal Boat
  • Silent Disco Walking Tour
  • Ball pit fun
  • Dine in the dark
  • Paddle Board around London
  • God’s Own Junkyard
  • Aeronaut Pub
  • Underground Labyrinths
  • Underground farm
  • Mini golf, reimagined
  • Mini Cooper & Gin
  • Paranormal tour
  • Physic Botanical Gardens
  • Immersive gaming
  • Speaker’s Corner, Hyde Park
  • Sex Drugs Sausage Rolls
  • London Dungeon
  • Dinner in the Sky
  • Become a Wizard
  • Outdoor Swimming
  • The Magic Circle
  • Canoe through Little Venice
  • Hula Hoop lessons
  • Wild Life Drawing
  • Learn to Play the Blues Guitar
  • Pancakes and Cocktails
  • Charity Shop Hop
  • Hand Casting
  • Winston Churchill Tour
  • Map with all sights

We can’t wait to show you the amazing experiences London has to offer. You can easily spend One Week in London with all of this on offer.

(Last update: April, 2024)

Solo travelers, couples, older travelers and families – there is something here for everyone.

Before you go, make sure to have a read of our One Week In London itinerary .

This guide covers all of the important bits like where to stay , how to get around, best places to eat and that all-important city map.

List of Unique Experiences in London

From weird experiences London to unforgettable lifetime memories – it’s all here and more.

Here’s a quick overview of what you’re about to discover in this guide to unique experiences in London.

Feel free to simply skip to the experience(s) which catches your eye. Otherwise, grab a coffee and slowly scroll down the page and have a look at each recommendation.

So, are you ready to delve into a collection of the best English experiences in London?

We assure you this is the only alternative London guide you’re going to need.  Make your trip memorable with these unique experiences in London.

1. Forget hot tubs, try a HotTug instead

Quite simply, this is your chance to hot tub down London’s canals. Yes, we’re 100% serious!

But this isn’t exactly your everyday normal hot tub. Something called a HotTug has been created for nothing but your enjoyment.

The HotTug is a self-drive, wood-fired bubble of fun that keeps a cozy 38 degrees. So it really doesn’t matter what the weather is doing. And no need to worry; the freshwater is changed for each trip.

The HotTug experience is:

  • 2 people = £185.00
  • 4 people = £198.00
  • 7 people = £250.00

Note: It’s a thumbs up to bring your own drinks. Just remember that the driver has to stay sober!

Once you’ve learned the ropes, enjoy 90 minutes of unique fun in West India Quay, London.

Forget hot tubs, try a HotTug instead

2. Attend a Secret 1920s Party

Shhh! Come in before someone sees you…

“ The Candlelight Club is a pop-up Prohibition-era speakeasy in a secret London venue completely lit by candles.”

This is your time to dress up in 1920s attire, step back in time and attend a party of a lifetime.

The party has no permanent home, and you won’t know where it is being held until the night before. Fun!

One thing’s for certain, each party will host live jazz bands, cabaret performances, and elegant cocktail menu and scrumptious dining options. Basically, everything you need for a superb evening.

Address: Secret London location (Ticket holders will receive an email two days before the event giving exact directions, the password, which cops have been bribed, etc. )

Contact: 07768 628788

3. Your Portal to Another World

Quite literally step into an Otherworld and free roam an epic VR island paradise with portals to 16 unique virtual reality experiences.

Each room is a sense-hacking immersion experience, a private space which combines:

  • A leading VR headset
  • Dynamic heat, wind & rumble effects

Fight a zombie apocalypse, swing from tree to tree and discover secrets of the ancients…

All of this and more can only be accessed from a railway arch in Haggerston, East London.

Address: 336 Acton Mews, Haggerston, London E8 4EA

4. A Back to Nature Experience

Would you believe us if we told you it’s possible to forage for food in London? Well, it’s true.

According to the crew at Totally Wild, London is surrounded by food, in hedgerows, wild spaces, and common parks.

Join them on a Foraging and Feast tour and learn what is safe to pick and eat. They are professionals and will make sure you don’t end up in A&E!

Best bit: After the forage, sit down to enjoy a pre-made foraged lunch. The dandelion-root coffee cake sounds a-mazing!

This is certainly one of the offbeat things to do in London.

Try Foraging and Feast tour and learn what is safe to pick and eat

5. Visit Banksy’s Graffiti Area (FREE!)

Please tell me you’ve heard of the legendary Banksy?

He’s an anonymous England-based street artist and political activist with some seriously dark humor. Now you know.

Tucked behind the Cargo Club in London is a ‘designated graffiti area’. Go and see it for yourself as a typical prankish piece by Banksy.

This particular piece has even been protected by plexiglass.

6. Laser Tag a Zombie

It’s just you against a horde of zombies, are you ready?

Step inside Bunker 51 and prepare to laser tag live actors and zombies that are hungry for your blood.

This is such a fun, adrenaline-fueled activity for both adults and kids.

Feeling unprepared? Sign up to 1 hour of military-style training before embarking on a zombie laser tag adventure.

It’s great for families, solo travelers, and couples. Even if you’re just one person, you can join a public session and fight with other participants. What a cool way to make new friends.

Address: 3 Herringham Road, SE7 8NJ

Contact: 0330 333 8085

7. Fine Dining by Bus

Calling all cute couples that enjoy something different; this one’s for you.

Get your gourmet on and prepare to fill your bellies with a fancy 6-course meal … on a bus!

This is a date night you’ll never forget. And the cool thing is that the bus can seat up to 38 people so there’s a chance you’ll meet other nice travelers.

Sparkling wine, fancy starters, and delicious desserts await you. Eat merrily and enjoy London’s iconic sights at the same time.

Super cool : The table is magnetic so that your cutlery stays exactly where it’s supposed to!

Dining on wheels is a date night to remember

8. Rock to Sleep on a Canal Boat

We do not doubt that glamping on the Regent’s canal will really float your boat (pun intended).

Velvet Morning is a 57-foot canal boat and has over 100 years of history and character to show off. She’s been revamped to make guests very welcome – there is even a bath onboard!

As the owners move her regularly, you can expect to be moored somewhere between Little Venice, Covent Garden, and Islington.

Rock to sleep on a Canal Boat

9. Spooky Silent Disco Walking Tour

Hands up if you’re in search of quirky things to do in London!

How does this sound: dancing the time warp on the bank of the Thames with your headphones on, whilst hearing spooky stories about the ghost of Hammersmith.

This is no ordinary walking tour, for it’s a silent disco walking tour .

Explore graveyards and sinister sights, and sip on a cup of ale to keep your courage topped up.

10. Get Balls Deep @ Ballie Ballerson

Lose those pesky adult inhibitions and spend the night playing in a huge ball pit! Because seriously, who wants to get older?

At Ballie Ballerson , you can spend your evening…

  • Playing in two giant ball pits
  • Dancing under pulsating lights
  • Feasting on pizza & sipping cocktails
  • Enjoying quirky entertainment

Luckily for you, there are two venues. One in Shoreditch and the other in Soho. Let’s go and check out one of the unique experiences in London.

  • Shoreditch: Ballie Ballerson Shoreditch, 97-113 Curtain Road, London EC2A 3BS
  • Soho: Ballie Ballerson Soho, 53-54 Berwick Street, London W1F 8SP

Ballie Ballerson General Ballpit

11. Drink Tea and Cuddle Cats

Ok cat lovers and tea enthusiasts, this one’s for you!

Welcome to the wonderful Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium , the UK’s longest-running cat cafe. And it is just as cute and exciting as you’d expect.

Here’s the deal:

  • All of the cats are rescued
  • The tea rooms are wonderland themed
  • Cold & hot drinks, cakes, and light meals are on offer

Important: Online bookings must be made in advance. Most time slots last for 90 minutes.

We highly recommend splashing out on the High Tea with Cats experience. Cakes, scones, tea & cats – sorted!

Address: 52-154 Bethnal Green Road, London E2 6DG

12. Dine in the Dark

Forget your ordinary restaurant experience. Dining at Dans le Noir ? A unique sensory and human experience.

Reclaim your senses and re-evaluate your taste perception; it’s time to dine in the pitch darkness!

We just love this idea. For once you can be set free from social conventions and visual preconceptions. You will be guided by a blind or partially sighted person, getting a first-hand experience of their reality.

Let smell, taste, and touch take over for a few hours as you enjoy a gourmet multi course tasting menu and fruity wine.

And for those who prefer a more traditional British experience, you can also consider enjoying a relaxing afternoon tea at one of London’s charming tea rooms. Indulge in an assortment of sandwiches, scones, and delicate pastries while sipping on fine tea.

Psst! Rumour has it that there will be a Dans le Noir escape game opening in 2020.

Address: 30-31 Clerkenwell Green, London EC1R 0DU

Contact: +44 (0) 20 7253 1100

13. Paddle Board around London

Forget your walking shoes or taking a train, bus or taxi. See London from a new perspective – the water!

One of the fun things to do in London is to climb atop a paddleboard and drift past some of London’s iconic sights.

It’s quick and easy to learn, so no worries if you haven’t done it before. Your guide is very skilled, patient and knowledgeable.

Everything is supplied: SUP, wetsuit, clothing. It runs through the winter, too.

Climb atop a paddleboard and drift past some of London’s iconic sights - unique experiences in London

14. God’s Own Junkyard

Wandering around God’s Own Junkyard is bound to leave you feeling like you’ve died and gone to neon heaven.

This place is full to the brim with neon lights, old movie props, and retro displays. From circus lighting and neon art to signs that have appeared behind huge movie stars like Tom Cruise and Johnny Depp.

Chris Bracey, known as the Neon Man for 37 years, is the brains behind this creation.

There’s even a Rolling Scones Cafe on-site which is open for food and drink all weekend.

Address: Unit 12 Ravenswood Ind Estate, Shernhall Street, London E17 9HQ

Contact: 020 8521 8066

15. A Pub with a Serious Twist

Over in the West End, you’ll find what is arguably West London’s best pub – Aeronaut .

Not only will you enjoy great food and drinks, but circus shows, drag shows, and epic themed-brunches.

Seriously, these guys have thought of everything. Also on-site is a permanent virtual reality feature, fun photo booth, and a wonderful Fairground Garden.

From craft Thursdays and DJ nights to comedy and bring-your-baby pub quizzes. Prepare to have a lot of fun, no matter what type of traveler you are!

Address: 264 ACTON HIGH STREET, LONDON W3 9BH

Contact: 0208 993 4242

Enjoy circus shows, drag shows, and epic themed-brunches at Aeronaut

16. Seek out the Underground Labyrinths (FREE!)

In search of cool things to do in London that don’t cost the earth? Here is a fun freebie for you.

Every one of London’s 270 tube stations has a piece of artwork displayed by Mark Wallinger, entitled Labyrinth.

His idea was commissioned by Art on the Underground to celebrate the Underground’s 150th anniversary.

So, what’s it all about?

It’s purely a bit of fun to keep the fun in moving around this big city. In each underground station, you will find one of Mark’s labyrinths to find. The question is, how many can you find and can you solve them?

17. Growing Food, Underground

Welcome to the agricultural revolution – the world’s first underground farm aptly named Growing Underground !

Take a tour 33 meters below the busy streets of Clapham and cast your eyes on fresh microgreens and salad leaves. This is simply astonishing!

Forgotten tunnels have become a pesticide-free growing environment.

What else is so cool about this? The prime location means lesser food miles traveled for retailers and consumers.

Fun facts: The hydroponics system uses 70% less water than open-field farming. The food goes from farm to fork in under 4 hours.

Address: 1a Carpenter’s Pl, Clapham Town, London SW4 7TD

Contact: 0207 627 1027

18. Mini Golf, Reimagined

Welcome to the world of Puttshack , where an old-fashioned game of mini golf meets never seen before technology. This is very cool indeed!

Alongside amazing design and neon lights, there’s this thing called a Prize Wheel. And yep, it’s exactly what you think. Sink your ball and be in for a chance to win drinks, pizzas and extra points.

Without a doubt, this is one of the unique things to do in London for party groups.

Hens, stags, birthdays, kids parties and exclusive hire – all are welcome here with great group packages.

  • Lakeside: The Quay intu, West Thurrock Way, Grays, Essex, RM20 2AD
  • White City: Ariel Way, London, W12 7HB
  • Bank: 1 Poultry, Queen Victoria Street, London, EC2R 8EJ

Contact: 020 3912 9400

19. Iconic Car, Iconic Drink

What’s not to love about the concept of driving around in a classic Mini Cooper to the best gin bars and distillery in Central London?!

Of course, you’ll have your own personal driver.

This means you and two friends can sit back, relax and enjoy the rum!

Clip-in your seat belt and get ready to enjoy the best gin bars in Zone 1 of London. This includes a distillery trip to get to know more about this iconic drink.

It’s possible to book a 2 hour (3 stops) and 3-hour (5 stops) tour.

Have a taste of different London gins

20. Paranormal Activity Tour

Get your spook on and prepare to have your blood chilled on this supernatural experience. It’s no wonder that this is a sell-out tour!

Become part of a paranormal investigation hunting for ghosts, poltergeists and very strange encounters.

Will you dare to use the Ouija board? We’re not sure we’re brave enough…!

During the 2 hours, you will visit London’s largest execution site, absconded gaol cells and learn about the grisly end of William Wallace.

Important: Tours typically run twice a month on a Friday night and it is strictly an adults-only activity.

Become part of a paranormal investigation hunting for ghosts, poltergeists and very strange encounters

21. Visit the oldest Botanic Garden in London

Ever heard of a physic garden? We hadn’t, either!

Chelsea Physic Garden was created in 1673 and is now home to around 5,000 different edible, useful, herbal and medical plants. It’s tucked away beside the Thames making it feel special and secret.

There are also fun and informative events to join, and plenty of coffee to be drunk at the shop and cafe.

Address: 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 4HS

Contact: 020 7352 5646

23. Immersive Games with Buckbuck

‘Buckbuck’ started designing immersive gaming back in 2014. Since then, they’ve taken off and become something truly impressive! The games have been described as ‘Crystal Maze on crystal meth’.

“Whether you’re someone with an instinct to solve some puzzles, or you’re a full-on Goonie, we have the game for you!”

We highly recommend trying out The Hunt for the Smoking Caterpillar.

Bid, barter, bribe, and blackmail with live actors. It combines immersive theatre, murder mystery, escape room fun and a bonkers storyline.

24. Listen to the Outspoken in Hyde Park (FREE!)

Only in Hyde Park will you find the oldest living free speech platform in the world – Speaker’s Corner .

This has traditionally been a place for rallies, protests, and marches to either assemble or end. A place where controversial subjects are still spoken about today.

Continuing the tradition which dates back to the 1800s, every Sunday morning it’s common to find crowds gathered at Speaker’s Corner to listen to those that hold strong views about many different subjects.

Anyone is welcome to speak about anything during this allotted time. And everyone is welcome to stand and listen!

24. Sex Drugs Sausage Rolls

From historic tours to modern adventures, there are countless unique experiences in London. The name of this tour says it all. Well, kind of. Let’s paint a better picture for you.

The Naughty London tour is all about debauched activity, grime, and downright filth! Dedicate 1.5 hours of your life to the nastiness and grossosity of London’s dark past.

Note: You need a sense of humor and a strong stomach to join this tour.

Discover the origins of their f*#%ing favorite swear word, find out when the vibrator was invented and visit the nest of Satan.

The Naughty London tour is all about debauched activity, grime, and downright filth

Top of the list for unusual things to do in London!

Here are more things to do in London: unusual things.

25. Creep around the London Dungeon

Alright, alright you got us. This is a very well known activity in London and not exactly what you’d call unique as there are Dungeons across the UK.

But bare with us. We’ve been here more than once and promise you that it’s simply not to be missed!

There is so much to get involved in when you’re not being scared to death by live actors.

How about an escape room, a vertical free-fall ride, and 19 interactive shows? Not to mention laughs, screams and cutting edge storytelling.

You can easily spend an entire day here. It’s ideal if the weather turns English.

Address: The London Dungeon County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road London SE1 7PB

Contact: 03333 212001

26. Dinner in the Sky

Part of a global Dinner in the Sky group is a UK capital version aptly named London in the Sky.

Have you guessed what it’s all about yet? You got it – enjoy an evening meal 100ft in the air!

This specially designed Sky Table can seat up to 22 people at once and takes flight eight times a day. That means breakfast, lunch, and dinner can be enjoyed in the clouds.

And quick expectedly, the views up there are awesome!

Remember: There is no toilet up here so just be mindful of how much you drink.

Address: The O2! Peninsula Square, Greenwich Peninsula, London SE10 0DX

27. Make Fantasy come to Life

Magic nerds and Harry Potter lovers will no doubt go crazy for the chance to create their own potions. At The Cauldron this is entirely possible!

Put on your robe, grab your magic wand and head to the interactive workstation. Cast a spell and watch as a pint of beer or cocktail appears before your eyes.

“Magic is just science we don’t yet understand.” Let a mix of science, design, and technology bring the magic of fantasy books to life in your personal immersive experience. See you there!

Address: 79 Stoke Newington Rd, London, N16 8AD

Contact: 07733 540647

28. Swimming in Hampstead Heath

Wim Hof will eat your heart out. The open-air swimming facilities at Hampstead Heath are certainly worth a visit if you appreciate a refreshing dip.

The ladies and men’s ponds are the only lifeguarded open water swimming facilities in the UK. Every day of the year!

There is also a mixed pond and a Parliament Hill Fields Lido which is 60 x 27 meters (unheated, uncovered).

Address: City of London, Guildhall, PO Box 270, London, EC2P 2EJ

Contact: 020 7606 3030

29. The Magic Circle

The Magic Circle is a museum, theatre, library and club room that hosts shows and events all in the name of MAGIC!

This is simply one of those nerdy things to do in London and a perfect surprise for that geeky boyfriend.

Witness amazing magic in front of your eyes, or simply make a visit to the museum.

Tip: Arrive an hour before your show starts and have a look around the building – there are lots to see.

Address: The Centre for the Magic Arts, 12 Stephenson Way, Euston, London, NW1 2HD

Contact: 0800 681 6096

30. Canoe through Little Venice

Here you have permission to navigate your own adventure through the city’s waterways, on a canoe!

Pick your canoe and paddle out from Paddington Basin to enjoy the simplicity of messing about in a boat. There are 2-3 person canoes available to explore Little Venice and Maida Vale.

How romantic!

Pick your canoe and paddle out from Paddington Basin - unique experiences in London

31. Hula School Lessons

Want a stomach as hard as diamonds and reminiscent of a washboard? Hula hooping is for you!

Meet Marawa the Amazing. This lady can hula 133 hoops at one time, and has performed all over the world. Now she wants to personally show you the ropes.

What will you be learning?

Twirling and whirling and everything else hoop related. Get your body moving and learn skills to take with you and your hoop wherever you go.

Join the Hula School and start moving your body with hoops - unique experiences in London

32. (Wild) Life Drawing

Instead of naked strangers, the subject for this unique experience in London is animals.

“The aim is to inspire a sense of appreciation and understanding for animals through creativity and to raise awareness of conservation issues around the globe.”

Whether you’re a pro or haven’t exceeded past stick-figure drawing, this informal class is open to all skill levels.

Good to know: Open to over 18s only. All materials are provided and classes take place all over London (3 per month).

Draw wild life animals right in front of your eyes

33. Learn Guitar with John Ellis (The Strangler)

Blues lovers, roll up, roll up! This is your chance to master the blues guitar with musical legend John Ellis.

Jam with John and learn the key principles of blues guitar. Pull-offs, slides, hammer-ons and turn arounds – all of this will make sense at the end of this 4-hour experience!

Don’t forget to bring your guitar as these are not provided.

This is your chance to master the blues guitar with musical legend John Ellis - unique experiences in London

34. Daydate: Pancakes & Cocktails

This is not just a 1 or 2-hour experience. Make a day of it instead, thanks to a curated itinerary by Indytute.

Your day around Bankside and Borough looks like this:

  • A pancake feast & cocktail for two
  • Self-guided audio tour
  • Wine sampling in Borough market
  • End the day with a show

A vegan, veggie or wheat-free? There are pancakes available to tickle all taste buds.

Tour around Bankside and Borough and have a taste of its pancakes - unique experiences in London

35. Charity Shop Hop

A most-loved British pastime is rummaging through old loves at a charity shop. Once looked down upon, this has now become seriously popular and brag-worthy!

Join a local and Charity Shop Hop the city’s hot spots. From vintage clothing to collectibles – what will be your bargain of the day?

Join a local and Charity Shop Hop the city’s hot spots and find treasures

36. 3D Cast your own Hand

Have you ever wondered what your hand says about you?

Well, Hand Casting encourages you to get artistic about this question.

Create your own work of art through hand expression. Join hands with a lover, clasp your child’s hand or simply capture your own.

“Hands are never banal. The fingers, the nails, the lines all merge to tell their story. Clasped, stretched, extended. They are a work of art.”

Note: This experience is suitable for up to 2 adults and 1 child.

Create a hand cast with someone you love and have a lifetime memory of art - unique experiences in London

37. Follow in the Footsteps of Winston Churchill

Exploring unique experiences in London is a must for any visitor. This is a really unusual walking tour that doesn’t focus on the iconic sights and attractions.

Instead, look at London through the eyes of Winston Churchill – one of the world’s greatest leaders.

Join a tour that leads through Mayfair and Green Park, discovering stories of Churchill and his life during WWII.

See at London through the eyes of Winston Churchill - unique experiences in London

Maps + London Top Sights

This is to help you explore more unique experiences in London. 

This is your trusty sidekick for exploring London’s coolest spots! It’s like having a personal tour guide in your pocket.

Get ready to conquer the city’s iconic attractions with ease and excitement! 

Are these experiences suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, many of these experiences are suitable for solo travelers. The article mentions that there is something for everyone, including solo travelers, couples, older travelers, and families.

Are reservations required for these experiences?

Reservations are often required for these experiences, and it's advisable to book in advance to secure your spot, especially for popular activities. Check with the individual experience providers for their booking policies.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to these experiences?

Some experiences, like the HotTug down London's canals, allow you to bring your own drinks. However, it's essential to follow any specific rules or restrictions provided by the experience providers, especially concerning food and beverages.

Are these experiences available year-round?

The availability of these experiences may vary, and some may be seasonal or subject to changes. It's recommended to check with the individual experience providers for their operating schedules and any seasonal restrictions.

Summary of Unique Experiences in London

Alright ladies and gentlemen, hopefully, you have been blown away by all of these unique experiences in London you didn’t know existed. Until now!

Well done to you for taking the time to do some research and think outside the box.

Did we miss anything cool, fun, unique? Please let us know so we can add it to the list!

Don’t just be a tourist; be an adventurer and seek out unique experiences in London.

Also, we know how stressing it is to plan a trip, thus we are here to guide you through. If you are planning to go to UK, check the best UK attractions for families to visit.

37 Unique Experience in London

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This list is fantastic! So exciting and unusual. I’ve lived in London for 18 years and not heard of most of these. What a brilliant way to spend a day with friends and family. Thank you.

I echo what was said – an amazing list!

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Discover More UK

Top 10 Unique London Tours and quirky London experiences

By Discover More UK

Published: 26 July 2022

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Of course there is no shortage of things to do in London, it’s one of the most famous cities in the world! But whether you’re a local looking for unusual days out in London, or a first time visitor ready to experience some unique London tours, these are the top 10 quirky London tours that you’ll LOVE!

Visiting Buckingham Palace, riding the London Eye and seeing Big Ben are all of course popular sites for a reason, but this guide aims to provide you with some ideas and inspiration for quirky days out in London, unique experiences and a day to remember with some of the more quirky London tours available.

These are all great options if you’re a London local looking for something to do on the weekend, perhaps you have friends visiting from out of town and want them to experience something a bit different.

Or maybe you’ve visited London so many times and this time you want something new, exciting and even odd things to do in London – those activities make all the best stories afterwards!

Image of st Paul's cathedral in London with pink blossom tree in front and a red London bus below

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.

10 Unusual London tours and experiences

A narrow boat cruise on the regents canal.

This charming narrowboat tour is just 1 hour long and takes you from Little Venice to Camden Town on a cute narrowboat barge, with sights to see along the way.

This is a much more leisurely paced tour, a perfect addition to a slow day around Little Venice or wandering Camden Markets.

You’ll pass through the Maida Hill tunnel and learn about Canal history, you can also nosey at the grand houses you’re cruising past too!

This is a really affordable and fun London activity, perfect for a sunny weekend out in London.

dusk at regents canal with unique London restaurant floating on the river looking like a red chinese lantern

Climb the roof of the O2 Arena

If you fancy something with a bit more adrenaline, why not brave a climb on the roof of the O2 arena.

Previously known as the Millennium Dome as it was constructed to market the Millennium in 2000, the dome is now a concert venue holding 20,000 seats.

This 90-minute experience offers incredible city views and you’re guaranteed to get your heart racing!

This is a great option for London gift experiences too, if you know someone who’d love this – why not buy it as a gift or as a London day trip to share with them?

London Beer Bike Tour

They are hilarious, sort of cringe but also look incredibly fun, right?!

Not only is one of the most unusual tours London has to offer, it’s also one of the most fun tours in London!

This drinks bike London activity is best done with a group of your mates while you pedal and drink your way around Soho and Piccadilly on a moving table!

The best part is that drinks are not included, so this unique London tour is also really budget friendly and you can bring whatever drink you enjoy most!

The barman will keep drinks following and tell you about the sights around you too. You can choose either a 1 hour or 2 hour experience.

Thames Speedboat ride

How many times have you seen those speedboats whizzing up and down the Thames?

Well now is your chance to join them on a Thames speedboat ride.

With a tour commentary of the famous London sights around you, a great music track and the thrill of flying along at that speed, this is a big winner for locals and tourists alike!

There are a few speedboat tour companies to choose from so find the option that suits you and your party best.

View of Tower Bridge from the side of the Thames

Ride the world’s longest and tallest tunnel slide

Did you know the famous red sculpture from the 2012 Olympic Games has been transformed into a fun tunnel slide where you reach speeds up to 15 mph?

This is a short, sweet and cheap option for a unique London experience that’s perfect for the whole family.

The ArcelorMittal Orbit is the UK’s tallest sculpture at 114.5 metres tall and the viewing platform from the top allows you to see panoramic views of London up to 20 miles away.

The world record breaking slide is 178 metres long with 12 twists and reaching speeds up to 15 mph.

Children must be over 8 years old and 1.3m or taller.

Evening Dinner River Cruise on the Thames with Live Music

If you’re looking for fun and unusual activities London has to offer couples, this evening river cruise with a 4 course meal and live music is the perfect London date night idea!

It’s also a really fun experience for a group of friends to enjoy together, with a 4 course meal, sparkling wine on arrival, tea and coffee, live music and dancing all included in the price.

From the boat you’ll see the city illuminated at night, or if you take the cruise in the summer, you’ll get to enjoy the sunset from the boat with the wonderful food and music as your soundtrack.

This is one of the more exclusive London tours and it’s an experience you’ll remember!

Aerial view of London skyline looking over the Thames and Tower Bridge with Canary Wharf in the distance

Afternoon Tea tour on an double decker bus

If you’re looking for cool tours in London, this is one of the experiences London does so well – where else can you ride a double decker London bus while enjoying English afternoon tea?!

This London Afternoon Tea bus tour includes a full sweet and savoury afternoon tea spread plus a glass of prosecco as you spend 1.5 hours seeing the best of London and some of the city’s most iconic sights and landmarks.

This is the perfect quirky London activity for a girls day trip, a mother-daughter day out or a London hen party.

Comedy Horror Ghost Tour on a bus

This Ghostly Horror Bus Tour is probably one of the most offbeat London tours ever but it’s definitely one of the most unique tours of London!

Learn about the gruesome history of London and the horrors behind some of the most well-known and iconic landmarks.

With onboard actors, ghost story narration and a few spooky scenes onboard, this is as much an entertaining tour as it is a spooky one!

This is a unique London tour to remember!

Hidden London Underground Tour

The London transport system, aka the Tube, is one of the most well-known transport systems in the world.

This London Underground tour is probably one of the most interesting tours in London as your guide shares the history, secrets and stories of the transport system.

Even as a local this is a fascinating opportunity to learn about an integral part of London and the guides are super knowledgeable – one of the best guided tours in London.

Skywalk at Tottenham Hotspurs

This is a fun London tour for the Spurs fans out there!

Walk on the glass walkway 46.8 metres above the football pitch at the Spurs stadium. You’ll scale the edge of the stadium and see epic views of the city from the top.

The experience lasts for 1.5 hours and you’ll get professional photos taken too.

Definitely an exhilarating experience to remember for footie fans out there!

London street art tour and workshop

View down a London street with traditional stone buildings on either side and the modern walkie talkie building at the end of the street

Experience one of the most unusual walking tours London has to offer with this half-day street art walking tour in London’s East End.

The whole experience lasts for 4 hours and you’ll have the chance to spray paint your own art piece at the workshop at the end of the tour.

See artwork from Banksy, Invader and other famous street art names and learn about street art from active street artists. 

As a London resident, it’s easy to walk past artwork and never know or appreciate the work behind it, this is one of the best quirky walking tours London has to offer about street art.

Book here. 

Summary: Unique tours in London

There are countless unusual experiences in London and hopefully this guide has given you some ideas and inspiration for the range of unique tours London has to offer.

Even as a local Londoner or UK resident, it can be easy to dismiss exploring more of your own capital city, these exciting activities are a reminder of how much there is on offer in London.

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Welcome to Unexpected London

Your exclusive access to a true and authentic london.

London is the world in a city, a world that never stops surprising with unexpected secrets, anecdotes, art, nature. Unexpected London is the new, bespoke way to explore this world, far from traditional guided tours but with unexpeccted Local Curators, that will make you enter hidden places, laboratories, city farms, independent stores, vintage markets, house museums and engage with locals and experts that will welcome you into their magic worlds made of passion and love to sweep you away, making you COME AS A GUEST AND LEAVE AS A LOCAL .

What We Offer

We offer premium bespoke experiences with unique Local Curators that will welcome you into their world of passion, secrets and knowledge, all in a fun, light-hearted and engaging way.

unique walking tours london

Private experiences

Private experiences for small groups of up to 6 people to make you enjoy London like a true insider, as if you were going around with a knowledgeable friend who will make you feel a part and not just an anonymous spectator of the places you visit. All our experiences are far from the crowd and commercial spots to make you live the most local side of our beautiful city.

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Made to measure experiences

We are here to create made-to-measure experiences tailored around you and your passions. From music, to art, to culture, to history, to alternative retail, to street art, let us know your needs and our local experts will try their best to turn it into reality. We are always up to date with special events happening in London and have exclusive private experiences tailored around them.

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Corporate experiences

Engage and reward your workforce and your clients with unique and unexpected experiences that make them immerse in London’s best kept secrets, craftsmanship, music, food, nature. From wellbeing, to sustainability, to culinary, to art & culture experiences we are here to make sure you surprise and entertain your team with the most unique experiences you can find in London.

Our Walking Experiences

Every Unexpected London walk is a lively explosion of music, stories and fun. Wear some comfortable shoes as all experiences are on foot, to allow you to fully immerse in London’s magic atmosphere!

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Secret Experiences

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First Time in London

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London Online Experiences

Enjoy a unique and engaging online experience through London's Black culture in Brixton

The Alternative Notting Hill experience | Unexpected London

The Alternative Notting Hill Experience

Come and explore one of London’s most iconic areas without missing out on its history, music & street art.

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Canary Wharf to Greenwich Walk

Explore Canary Wharf’s financial district to iconic Greenwich through nature & secrets.

Secrets of the City Tour

Secrets of the City Historical Walk

From Bank to the Tower of London uncover some of London’s best kept secrets.

David Bowie mural - Brixton Music and Street Art Tour | Unexpected London

Brixton Street Art & Music Tour

Explore London’s biggest Afro-Caribbean community, local markets, street art & music.

Dale Grimshaw Street Art - Shoreditch Tour | Unexpected London

Shoreditch Street Art Tour

Explore Brick Lane and Shoreditch markets, graffiti, music and lifestyle.

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We are very honoured to rank 14th out of over 1,230 tours in London with an average of 5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor and Google and having been awarded the certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor for the second year running. We are also finalists for Best Activity of the Year at the iNews Staycation Awards.

5 star rating

A unique experience in London that feels good Savio took us through different neighbourhoods with a friendly, tailored and accessible style. He knows how to use different universes (music, cinema, photos) to make us appreciate street art and... read more Savio took us through different neighbourhoods with a friendly, tailored and accessible style. He knows how to use different universes (music, cinema, photos) to make us appreciate street art and the cultural richness of these historical places in London. The small group and outdoor format is very adapted to the current context. read less

A unique experience in London that feels good Savio took us through different neighbourhoods with a friendly, tailored and accessible style. He knows how to use different universes (music, cinema, photos) to make us appreciate street art and... read more Savio took us through different neighbourhoods with a friendly, tailored and accessible style. He knows how to use different universes (music, cinema, photos) to make us appreciate street art and the cultural richness of these historical places in London. The small group and outdoor format is very adapted to the current context. … read less

Truly and pleasantly unexpected tour! Savio provides you with an immersive experience from the music played throughout to mingling with the locals. He seemingly blends with the tapestry of the community and shows you a... read more Savio provides you with an immersive experience from the music played throughout to mingling with the locals. He seemingly blends with the tapestry of the community and shows you a thing or two of the character of the area. More importantly he provides you with the historical perspective which makes you appreciate more the story behind the street art. With Savio, you feel that your longtime friend is showing you around. Thank you very much again for a great experience! read less

Brixton I've lived in London for most of my life and have always been reasonably curious about my surroundings, and yet Savio has manged both times (I've also been on the... read more I've lived in London for most of my life and have always been reasonably curious about my surroundings, and yet Savio has manged both times (I've also been on the Shoreditch experience) to bring this city to life in a way that I can't quite articulate, but which leaves you exhilarated and desperate to explore every corner. There's a very particular magic in the way that he narrates these explorations; a friendly informality combined with passion, energy, and an exhaustive knowledge that incorporates all aspects of the area and community, both historic and contemporary. On both occasions, I've left feeling elated but never overwhelmed and with my eyes opened in a new way. Can't recommend highly enough! read less

Truly and pleasantly unexpected tour! Savio provides you with an immersive experience from the music played throughout to mingling with the locals. He seemingly blends with the tapestry of the community and shows you a... read more Savio provides you with an immersive experience from the music played throughout to mingling with the locals. He seemingly blends with the tapestry of the community and shows you a thing or two of the character of the area. More importantly he provides you with the historical perspective which makes you appreciate more the story behind the street art. With Savio, you feel that your longtime friend is showing you around. Thank you very much again for a great experience! … read less

Brixton I've lived in London for most of my life and have always been reasonably curious about my surroundings, and yet Savio has manged both times (I've also been on the... read more I've lived in London for most of my life and have always been reasonably curious about my surroundings, and yet Savio has manged both times (I've also been on the Shoreditch experience) to bring this city to life in a way that I can't quite articulate, but which leaves you exhilarated and desperate to explore every corner. There's a very particular magic in the way that he narrates these explorations; a friendly informality combined with passion, energy, and an exhaustive knowledge that incorporates all aspects of the area and community, both historic and contemporary. On both occasions, I've left feeling elated but never overwhelmed and with my eyes opened in a new way. Can't recommend highly enough! … read less

Brixton Music and Stories it was fun and very informative, even for Londoners, learnt a lot about Music, was a good afternoon thanks Savio, he is very knowledgeable on the subject

An unexpected local friend It was great to learn so much about an area of less than 1 Square mile and it’s living community idea. We loved it and may do it again with... read more It was great to learn so much about an area of less than 1 Square mile and it’s living community idea. We loved it and may do it again with our teenager kids next time in London. Savio has so much to tell, in particular about music (Reggae) and street art. Worth for everybody, even if you are not a fan of street art. read less

Walking experience with street art, history and a great backing track! Savio is obviously not Brixton born and bred, but his passion for the area, its history, music, art and people is undisputed. He has cleverly curated an informative and enjoyable... read more Savio is obviously not Brixton born and bred, but his passion for the area, its history, music, art and people is undisputed. He has cleverly curated an informative and enjoyable walk through Brixton environs, seamlessly splicing together the history of the area, its street art, some of its more famous denizens and its local food markets with a fabulous soundtrack to match. Our family enjoyed the experience immensely, particularly learning about the music and musicians who have emerged out of Brixton life. Walking through the various Brixton markets and being introduced to some very gracious Brixton locals was also a highlight. We enjoyed a jerk chicken and plantain lunch from one of these locals, The Bushman, once the tour was over and had cocktails in a pop-up village. Savio has obviously spent a lot of time and effort ensuring this experience is informative, unique and flows beautifully - it allowed us to wander through Brixton and get a real sense of the place without feeling as though we were on a whistle-stop tourist tour. We highly recommend the experience. read less

An unexpected local friend It was great to learn so much about an area of less than 1 Square mile and it’s living community idea. We loved it and may do it again with... read more It was great to learn so much about an area of less than 1 Square mile and it’s living community idea. We loved it and may do it again with our teenager kids next time in London. Savio has so much to tell, in particular about music (Reggae) and street art. Worth for everybody, even if you are not a fan of street art. … read less

Excellent Tour of Notting Hill My partner and I did the Notting Hill Tour on 8th March. Savio was an excellent tour guide, who knew a huge amount about the region. He is clearly... read more My partner and I did the Notting Hill Tour on 8th March. Savio was an excellent tour guide, who knew a huge amount about the region. He is clearly very passionate about music, art and culture in this area and this came across. Every stop was full of insight and interesting facts that you would not have been able to know without Savio. It was great to see where some films were shot, music recorded or art created. One of the highlights for us was the soundtrack to the walk being played out at relevant points so it correlated to what he was saying. This tour is clearly very well thought out and crafted with years of knowledge. If you have any interest in Notting Hill it is definitely worth doing, you will definitely learn something and have a great time in the process. It was only us on the tour, which allowed us to ask as many questions as we wanted. Thanks for a very enjoyable and interesting tour Savio. We will look out for the other tours you run in London too and tell our friends and family about it as well. Thank you. read less

Savio's Brixton This was my second tour with Savio, already did Nothing Hill with him and we were amazed with the amount of cool, interesting, not in your face information he shared... read more This was my second tour with Savio, already did Nothing Hill with him and we were amazed with the amount of cool, interesting, not in your face information he shared with us. Brixton was equally amazing, from the strories, music, food, street art, people we meet while on the tour...Everything was top notch. If you want to get away from touristic London, Savio is your man! read less

Amazing Shoreditch Tour! Whether you are visiting London for the first time or you lived here your whole life, i guarantee that by taking any of the Unexpected London tours you will learn... read more Whether you are visiting London for the first time or you lived here your whole life, i guarantee that by taking any of the Unexpected London tours you will learn something new, awesome and unexpected about it. In fact, these are not tours, these are shows where Savio shares his immense love for this city by walking through art, culture and music. I highly recommend the Unexpected London experiences with Savio, from Brixton, to Shoreditch, Notting Hill, Greenwich and many more... read less

Brixton with Savio was a great experience We loved experiencing Brixton with Savio. Beside Brixton uniqueness Savio is a passionate storyteller with wealth of information about what makes Brixton special... Savio is passionate, knowledgeable and welcoming. Next time... read more We loved experiencing Brixton with Savio. Beside Brixton uniqueness Savio is a passionate storyteller with wealth of information about what makes Brixton special... Savio is passionate, knowledgeable and welcoming. Next time in London, make yourself a gift and book an Unexpected London experience. read less

An experience to remember!! We visited Notting Hill for the first time and booked the experience with Savio to learn more about the neighbourhood. From the first moment he captured our interest with his... read more We visited Notting Hill for the first time and booked the experience with Savio to learn more about the neighbourhood. From the first moment he captured our interest with his charming and friendly personality, his knowledge and his enthusiasm. You can feel his love for London, Notting Hill and his work. He took us through Notting Hill, surprising us with stories about its history, the people and of course the music. We visited little shops, saw beautiful street art and heard wonderful stories about Notting Hill. We could have never found all those things out by ourselves. We can highly recommend booking with Savio. You will not be disappointed at all. It is not a tour, it is truly an experience of the highest level and for us the highlight of our weekend. If you want to get to know Notting Hill, he is the man to talk to! read less

Organisation of tripadvisor music and activity tour of Brixton accompanied by Savio I booked this undiscovered music, activity and street art tour of Brixton for my niece who moved to Brixton and Streatham Hill a year ago. Savio was absolutely fantastic at... read more I booked this undiscovered music, activity and street art tour of Brixton for my niece who moved to Brixton and Streatham Hill a year ago. Savio was absolutely fantastic at contacting us a few days before the tour to confirm meeting point and time and very attentive that it was not me doing the tour , but my niece. She absolutely loved it. Said she knew so many new fabulous places to visit in Brixton and had found a new restaurant to sample one of her fav meals , ceviches! Absolutely 10/10 from start to finish . Thank you Savio read less

Experience round Brixton Really great experience! Savio is friendly, relaxed and makes it feel like an engaging conversation with a knowledgeable friend. Very original tour learning lots about the area and being inspired... read more Really great experience! Savio is friendly, relaxed and makes it feel like an engaging conversation with a knowledgeable friend. Very original tour learning lots about the area and being inspired to explore more! Tailored content too and follow up email with links to everything we discussed. Got a chance to see a cheeky leap year proposal too (attached)! Oh and....cracking tunes! read less

Hidden gems in Notting Hill This was my third experience with Unexpected London and Savio and it was again wonderful. Savio showed me places I would have never found on my own. We also walked... read more This was my third experience with Unexpected London and Savio and it was again wonderful. Savio showed me places I would have never found on my own. We also walked through Portobello Road but before the market started to get crowded and there are a lot of stores to explore that you could easily miss. The best part was a visit to a local gallery. And I saw a piece by Banksy. But all the streetart was great and we again listened to a lot of songs on our tour. I hope to come back to London soon. Thanks again, Savio, it was a pleasure! read less

Great walk in Spitalfields Very nice and interesting walk, we heard about historical events in the area and found some cute secret places. It was a great experience I recommend it if you want... read more Very nice and interesting walk, we heard about historical events in the area and found some cute secret places. It was a great experience I recommend it if you want to really get trapped in London at least in this part of the city = ). Great time thank you so much read less

A great tour run by the very friendly Savio! This was a very interesting and insightful tour run by Savio! We learned about the history of the area as well as about the variety of street art

Be Ready For The Best Experience!! Savio is a very smart and passionate host. He explained everything I wanted to know in much detail and added music and meetings with locals. It was on of the best... read more Savio is a very smart and passionate host. He explained everything I wanted to know in much detail and added music and meetings with locals. It was on of the best experiences I have ever had in a new area. I will definitely use Savio and his Unexpected London tours again! read less

Knowledge + Talent + Bowie = A great afternoon in Brixton As a fan of Bowie since I was 14 in 1971, I knew the content of this tour was always going to be intersting as the man was a genius.... read more As a fan of Bowie since I was 14 in 1971, I knew the content of this tour was always going to be intersting as the man was a genius. My daughter bought the tour for me and she came along with me. It was cold and raining but Nick was amazing. It goes without saying that to do this you have to know your subject and the area-he did. You need talent if you are also going to treat everyone to acoustic versions of iconic songs-Nick had that in bucketfuls. He was funny and also sympathetic towards the needs of his group to take a break. All in all, I thoroughly recommend this tour and will look into Nicks other tours. read less

Intimate, friendly & enjoyable Really enjoyed our experience with the friendly and knowledgeable Savio, who made the experience very personal and informative. We learned a lot about the history of the Shoreditch area... read more Really enjoyed our experience with the friendly and knowledgeable Savio, who made the experience very personal and informative. We learned a lot about the history of the Shoreditch area and saw street art which would be impossible to find without inside knowledge. Would highly recommend if you have a few hours spare in London and interested in history, art, fashion or music. read less

Fall in love with Brixton I have been to London many times, but this was my first time in Brixton and thanks to Savio I realize I've been experiencing London the wrong way up to... read more I have been to London many times, but this was my first time in Brixton and thanks to Savio I realize I've been experiencing London the wrong way up to now. If you have any interest in music, street art, or history don't hesitate to book this experience. Savio has deep knowledge of the area, and he seemingly knew everyone in the markets and stores we visited. He purposely keeps the group size small so that it feels more like a walk with friends than a "tour," which I appreciated very much. A great value for a time well spent. read less

Cultural and Musical Wonderland If you’re interested in the history of Brixton, one of the most colourful and interesting areas of London and want to see a collection of contemporary and historic street art,... read more If you’re interested in the history of Brixton, one of the most colourful and interesting areas of London and want to see a collection of contemporary and historic street art, authentic Afro Caribbean markets and enjoy a musical time warp encompassing Bowie, The Clash, Marley and Eddie Grant, then Savio’s tour of Brixton is for you read less

Magical Christmas Savio took us through the sparkly Christmas version of London, complete with a soundtrack to set the mood. It was a bit of a workout but all in all, amazing

Shoreditch - The Grittier Side of London This tour started in the more modern area of London which made for an interesting contrast as we walked into the older neighborhood of Shoreditch. I had heard comparisons between... read more This tour started in the more modern area of London which made for an interesting contrast as we walked into the older neighborhood of Shoreditch. I had heard comparisons between Brooklyn (Williamsburg) and Shoredtich and yes, they were accurate when it comes to the amazing street art. Its a transitioning neighborhood with a rich history of the Jewish and Bangladesh communities; I was struck by hearing the Call to Prayer and seeing a former synagogue converted to a mosque. Also, the Spitelfield Market and the Federalist style homes. One was converted to a gallery above with a hidden gem of a bakery below where we enjoyed homemade cakes. Ceilings barely high enough to stand and a corner chair that made me want to stay the whole day immersed in conversation with Savio and the others on the tour. We finished with a walk through the old brewery area with street food vendors, an amazing chocolate shop, and a visit to the "Broccoli Man". The peak moments for me was the surprise at the bookstore and climbing up on the voluptuous statue. Savio has a special talent for bringing life to the streets of London. We were hanging on his every word but it isn't just the information that he shares, its the passion with which he tells stories and the joy in his face for simply being alive and living in the amazing city of London. Grazie Mille Savio! read less

Quite interesting neighbourhood Excellent guide, very enthusiastic and passionate by the subject - Brixton and their best representatives - a good walk to learn interesting facts and places with a lot of particular... read more Excellent guide, very enthusiastic and passionate by the subject - Brixton and their best representatives - a good walk to learn interesting facts and places with a lot of particular characteristics. I had a great time! read less

Nothing Hill memorable tour Savio made our trip to London memorable! Without him, we would wonder the streets of Nothing Hill, passing the most important sites of the area, without even knowing it! Through... read more Savio made our trip to London memorable! Without him, we would wonder the streets of Nothing Hill, passing the most important sites of the area, without even knowing it! Through his knowledge of the history, film, music and street art, we discovered all the beauty of the area, not to mention the perfect music he played during the tour, making the experience even more enjoyable! After the tour we recieved all the information, photos, music videos, movie clips of the movies filmed in the erea, playlist etc. All inclusive, memorable experience. Thank you Savio! See you again, this time in Brixton! read less

Christmas Tour of Covent Garden Loved my tour with Unexpected London, different to my other two tours I’ve done with Savio but yet again I discovered and experienced areas that I never would have gone... read more Loved my tour with Unexpected London, different to my other two tours I’ve done with Savio but yet again I discovered and experienced areas that I never would have gone to myself and it was a great way to capture some of the Christmas spirit in London. read less

Experience and learn about the real, 'beyond-the-obvious' London Savio promises "an immersive experience, not a tour". And he absolutely delivers on that. We did the Brixton experience recently, starting out in the comfort of a local... read more Savio promises "an immersive experience, not a tour". And he absolutely delivers on that. We did the Brixton experience recently, starting out in the comfort of a local cafe where he shared historical context and background with the small group of participants before we set out. We enjoyed and learnt about the street art, the music, the markets and the people, experiencing a wide range of aspects of this vibrant part of south London. We will definitely plan to join other 'Unexpected London' experiences in our home city. read less

The alternative Notting Hill experience Savio gave us a full immersion experience of Notting Hill! I learned so much about this neighborhood that I never would have known just walking around on my own. Of... read more Savio gave us a full immersion experience of Notting Hill! I learned so much about this neighborhood that I never would have known just walking around on my own. Of course it was lovely to see the famous filming sights, and there is so much more to Notting Hill than that. Savio showed us so many hidden gems. He played a thoughtfully curated soundtrack throughout the walk, and he provided tons of interesting anecdotes the entire time. He’s clearly a neighborhood favorite. I enjoyed getting to know him and talking about music, Notting Hill, and all kinds of other interesting topics! Highly recommend any opportunity to experience London with Savio! read less

We really unexpected London!! Many thanks Savio for your enthusiasm and to let us discover London in a different way, have been a lovely experience and for sure we will join a new tour... read more Many thanks Savio for your enthusiasm and to let us discover London in a different way, have been a lovely experience and for sure we will join a new tour experience with you soon. We leave here since four years now and we always like to discover this amazing city that always surprise us. Highly recommended!! read less

Great experience All I can say about the tour is that I just loved it from beginning to end! Savio is much more than a tour guide and the experience is not... read more All I can say about the tour is that I just loved it from beginning to end! Savio is much more than a tour guide and the experience is not only informative and entertaining but also really enjoyable. He’s really passionate about the topic and takes all the time you need and even more to show you London as a local. I highly recommend it. read less

Another wonderful experience by Unexpected London I had such a great time doing the Shoreditch tour, I've decided to book this tour as well. And again, it was an absolutely Unexpected experience! Savio is very connected... read more I had such a great time doing the Shoreditch tour, I've decided to book this tour as well. And again, it was an absolutely Unexpected experience! Savio is very connected to the local community, not only knowing all the ins and outs, but really give back to the community as well. I've learned a great deal about Brixton and had a fun time visiting the Lost in Brixton bar recommended by Savio as well. Again, the personal touch, the friendly and warm approach, an eye for details, and accommodating to the guest’s needs makes this a truly wonderful experience! Highly recommended! read less

Superb Tour Savio's genuine curiosity and passion was truly palpable and it was contagious. He introduced himself as a knowledgeable friend, as opposed to a guide which felt like an enormous relief.... read more Savio's genuine curiosity and passion was truly palpable and it was contagious. He introduced himself as a knowledgeable friend, as opposed to a guide which felt like an enormous relief. The brilliantly original details, profound knowledge and diverse range of things that we looked at and the route itself all felt very organic. We didn't feel the 'stress' or bustle of the city at all. I genuinely left feeling like my eyes had been opened, that I was seeing things anew and I felt exhilarated and inspired. read less

London for a different angle This tour is for travelers who want to meet the locals, hear the stories behind the art, and feel the pulse of this vibrant London neighborhood. Savio is an engaging... read more This tour is for travelers who want to meet the locals, hear the stories behind the art, and feel the pulse of this vibrant London neighborhood. Savio is an engaging storyteller with a heart of gold. He is clearly well respected in this community and the friend you wish you had in every city you travelled. Bush Man's chicken under the stairs should not be missed! Would recommend. read less

Highlight of the weekend This was a birthday treat for my mum - who is in her mid-70s with an interest in Banksy. She was skeptical as 3 hours of walking isn’t her idea... read more This was a birthday treat for my mum - who is in her mid-70s with an interest in Banksy. She was skeptical as 3 hours of walking isn’t her idea of fun. We both had an amazing afternoon along with the other 3 guests. Savio made it so interesting and unlike any tours I’ve done before. He plays great music from his backpack, knew so many people on the tour and brought us to places we’d never have been able to find or access. He showed us amazing art on walls, doors and windows, great shops, fed us gourmet chocolate and made all of us feel like we were hanging out with a clued in friend. Our only regret is that we don’t have time to do another tour before we leave. If you are wondering whether this is a worthwhile tour it is and will exceed your expectations. Savio is a lovely person who made us all welcome and amazed us with sites. Really great afternoon. Thanks!! read less

To be done again! I had the pleasure of going on 2 tours with Savio from Unexpected London in September. I did both the Canary Wharf and the Secrets of London. Both truly unique... read more I had the pleasure of going on 2 tours with Savio from Unexpected London in September. I did both the Canary Wharf and the Secrets of London. Both truly unique showing a completely new side of London I was unaware of. Highly recommended thanks to Savio's extensive explanations which clearly denote a continuous research ranging form history to art, personal experience and the future of London. To be done again in the future as I'm sure I wouldn't be hearing the same things twice. read less

Amazing alternative experience in Notting Hill It was more than great, I liked every second of it. Was different from everything I’ve done before, it truly is an experience. I hope many people get the chance... read more It was more than great, I liked every second of it. Was different from everything I’ve done before, it truly is an experience. I hope many people get the chance to meet Savio, he was very friendly and cared about everything so I can get the most out the whole experience. I learnt a lot from Notting Hill, Bob Marley, the riots in 1958 and 1976. About so many stores that I wouldn’t know if it wasn’t for Savio. I learnt a lot, and yes, you visit the usual landmarks in there, but you get quite more than that. We talked and walked for more than 2.5 hours, was quite more but I didn’t care because everything was so interesting. Thanks Savio. read less

The best! This was an amazing experience. Savio was GREAT. No other words needed. We were Mum and 4 grown up daughters and we all enjoyed every moment. Communication also before the... read more This was an amazing experience. Savio was GREAT. No other words needed. We were Mum and 4 grown up daughters and we all enjoyed every moment. Communication also before the tour was easy and Savio!!!!!!!!! read less

Unexpected Notting Hill You will discover hidden gems like true Bansky and Dotmaster street art to the recording studios of Adele and Bob Marley. It was fun having a personal tour guide show... read more You will discover hidden gems like true Bansky and Dotmaster street art to the recording studios of Adele and Bob Marley. It was fun having a personal tour guide show me all the best antique shops, galleries and locations that were used for the movie Notting Hill. I enjoyed having my picture taken in front of the famous bookstore where Julia Roberts met Hugh Grant in the movie. It was interesting to learn about the historical significance of the population shifts that occurred through the decades while walking past the posh, brightly painted homes. Savio played music for us as we walked through the streets while sharing fun tidbits of information. A fun and engaging approach to a tour that I have never experienced before. He runs other tours and I would gladly have him show me around other parts of London as well! Bravo! read less

Best experience! We met Savio yesterday for our trip around the city and quickly realized how fortunate we were to be walking the streets with him! He showed us so many places,... read more We met Savio yesterday for our trip around the city and quickly realized how fortunate we were to be walking the streets with him! He showed us so many places, little jewels that we would never have found on our own, introducing us to the city in a way that was personal, fun, informative and music filled. Our teens loved it, even asking us to book another day with him :) I honestly felt sorry for the people we passed in mass style tours as we were ducking into only locally known coffee shops and art filled alleys. He became our first friend in London, and what a great friend he is. Highly, highly recommend, you won’t be disappointed. Thank you Savio!!! read less

Really good, very different Our own private tour. Really, really liked it. Savio is so knowledgeable and has designed such an enjoyable tour. Very different

A 'one of a kind' 'Immersive', 'Experience'!!! :-) Before turning 30, I decided to try out 30 things I have never done before. Like many Londoners, I felt there are areas in my own city of London that... read more Before turning 30, I decided to try out 30 things I have never done before. Like many Londoners, I felt there are areas in my own city of London that I’m still to discover. As my roots are from Africa! The Brixton Experience naturally grabbed my attention. I’m completely blown away, thoroughly impressed at how it was an immersive experience that is far away from ‘traditional guided tours’. You are warmly invited into the very core of this society, so you truly understand it! It’s really clever how its led by Savio (a talented, creative, energetic warm Italian, who is deeply passionate and knowledgeable about London) in a way that touches all of ‘ones senses’, from viewing the Brixton currency, street art, chocolate Museum, hearing about the Brixton history, its relation to music (with an awesome vinyl shop visit), smelling the sensational seasoned aromas of the Afro-Caribbean market food, to having a feel of native fashion fabrics. The play list of music booming out of his speakers is wonderfully thought out, tailored to the history of every stop off point. I found this shone light, adding another dimension and dynamic to the experience. lt has been years since I last visited Brixton so it was great to have Savio, how is like a friend to show you around so learn about things you never would have known . It was impressive to see how well Savio knows the locals, he introduces you to some of them and they share their stories with you, this touched me and took my understanding and appreciation of the area to a whole new level. Also, you get great content after the day as a sort of memorabilia of Brixton and the experience, from photos to music and videos. I highly recommend this! read less

Awesome Tour This is an in-depth, personal and insightful experience told through the lense of a young Italian outsider who became a Brixton beloved insider with the Afro-Carribean old school guard of... read more This is an in-depth, personal and insightful experience told through the lense of a young Italian outsider who became a Brixton beloved insider with the Afro-Carribean old school guard of the famous Brixton market. If you want to meet locals tied to the historical black experience of the market, and know about how this neighborhood came to be, then this is the tour for you. Based on a connection I made during this tour, I was invited to a little know Monday night jam session with local young musicians and experienced an intimate musical event that few people know about or even experience. After your tour, come back and do some local shopping at African centered Diversify and Refined 80. Then get a proper meal at Fish, Wings and Tings (yes, Tings . . . Not Things). Top off your experience at the record store Pure Vinyl and chat w/ the owner Claudia about old school soul and debate who laid the foundation for rap music. And purchase from the shop keepers to keep this vibrant and special community alive. When you buy, just don't run out. Take the time to share your stories and experiences with them, and they'll share there's. -L.Swann read less

Unexpected London - The Ultimate Urban Experience - HOSTED BY SAVIO LOS Taking a walk on the wild side of Savio’s Adventure was a 5 star experience! Famous London Street Art was enhanced by his storytelling and carry-along music. Savio’s selection of... read more Taking a walk on the wild side of Savio’s Adventure was a 5 star experience! Famous London Street Art was enhanced by his storytelling and carry-along music. Savio’s selection of tunes were customized according to artist, era and neighborhood – bringing to life many of the iconic musical “Greats”. Savio was super knowledgeable in all areas of both the Graffiti Masters and the up and coming wanna-bees. His style is unique and his personality radiates with each any every step along the way. A definite recommendation for a one of a kind Artistic Happening! read less

Great tour of Brixton Really enjoyed the tour with Savio. Lots of knowledge on the area especially around music. Excellent and different guided tour which was great.

The best walking tour (experience) ever! I’ve started takingmore tours in the big cities or at special attractions and I can say that Savio’s bespoke offering far exceeded my expectations. As he says himself - it’s... read more I’ve started takingmore tours in the big cities or at special attractions and I can say that Savio’s bespoke offering far exceeded my expectations. As he says himself - it’s not a tour, it’s an experience! I particularly liked the small group format and also the focus on a particular area/subject (in this case street art and music) while still covering a lot about London, architecture and general history. It was like a local friend taking you around and showing you the sights they are interested in and enthusiastic about! We never would have found these “off the beaten path” places without him in the time we had available. Also included was an amazing vintage clothing shop visit (even if you are not interested in shopping vintage - it was a fascinating local cultural experience) and a fabulous Ghanian chocolate shop - incredible. It’s a week later and I’m still thinking about all of it - definitely a London highlight. Wish we would have had time to do at least one more. read less

Really great experience I did the Shoreditch walking tour earlier this year and came back to London to do the Brixton experience (among other things). And it was so nice to meet Savio... read more I did the Shoreditch walking tour earlier this year and came back to London to do the Brixton experience (among other things). And it was so nice to meet Savio again, really like meeting a friend. That’s what this is about, making new friends and discovering a - for me - unknown area of London. Brixton is really great, and Savio knows so much about the history of the black community here. And he knows a lot of people there. So this was a big difference to the Shoreditch tour: we met some people who are pictured on the walls there. And everyone was super nice. What I also liked a lot are the different markets. We had a very good lunch after the tour. Thanks a lot for having me and my friend on this great experience! read less

Best London experience I had! This was a wonderful and unique experience and this is NOT a tour!! This is much more than a tour!! Savio is an informative and energetic “friend” who shares street... read more This was a wonderful and unique experience and this is NOT a tour!! This is much more than a tour!! Savio is an informative and energetic “friend” who shares street art, history, architecture and much more all while playing music. If you want to to something that is non typical tourist things, then this walking experience is for you!! read less

The undiscovered side of Notting Hill You will be getting a unique, intimate and interactive perspective of Notting Hill with the help of Savio. If you want to take pictures at iconic places this is not for... read more You will be getting a unique, intimate and interactive perspective of Notting Hill with the help of Savio. If you want to take pictures at iconic places this is not for you - do that a different time. This will plunge you into the history and people who shaped Portobello road and beyond. I had a wonderful time. read less

* This was a fantastic experience. I am already recommending it to other people. Savio is so engaging, informative and well, he makes it fun. I loved the use of music... read more This was a fantastic experience. I am already recommending it to other people. Savio is so engaging, informative and well, he makes it fun. I loved the use of music to show the cultural depth of the area. read less

Unexpected Notting Hill Wow! What a fabulous morning we had learning the history of this are through music and street art. Totally recommend this tour with a difference!!

unique walking tours london

Due to Covi-19 we are not running any experience until further notice to safeguard the health and safety of our clients as well as our staff.

girl gone london

21 Best London Walking Tours in 2024 (ranked!)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

best changing of the guards tours in London

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

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

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

Easy Guide: Best London Walking Tours

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

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

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Hidden London Walking Tour  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Jack the Ripper Walking Tour in London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour in London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Private Custom Walking Tour: Day Tour of London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. London: Landmarks and Harry Potter Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Historic London Pubs Private Walking Tour

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

  • Pickup from select hotels
  • 6 historic pubs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are other exciting stops too!

10. Haunted London Pub Walking Tour

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

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

Are you a fan of horror?

Love visiting haunted sites?

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. London Bridge Ghost Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Private Sherlock Holmes Walking Tour in London  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. London Police and Crime Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Historic Pub Walking Tour of London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Historic London City Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The tour also includes a very informative history lesson.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. The Beatles London Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your tour will start from Charing Cross Station.

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

20. Shakespeare Walking Tour in London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. London River Cruise & Westminster Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

In total, the walking tour covers 20 sights.

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

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

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

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

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

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

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

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

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

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

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

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

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

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

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

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

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

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

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

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

unique walking tours london

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

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

unique walking tours london

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Fun London Tours - London Walking Tours

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unique walking tours london

Featured Tours!

unique walking tours london

Churchill & London in WW2 Tour

unique walking tours london

Changing the Guard Tour

unique walking tours london

Changing the Guard extra! Tour

unique walking tours london

Secret Old London Tour

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Hidden London Tour

unique walking tours london

Secret London Tour

unique walking tours london

The London Loo Tour

unique walking tours london

London’s Lost City Tour

unique walking tours london

Controversial Statues Tour

unique walking tours london

Liar Liar London Quiz Tour

unique walking tours london

Covent Garden Historic Pub Tour

unique walking tours london

London’s Grime & Punishment Tour

unique walking tours london

Bizarre Old London Tour

unique walking tours london

The Harry Potter Tour

unique walking tours london

Curiosities of London Tour

unique walking tours london

Shakespeare’s London Tour

unique walking tours london

Saints, Sinners & Celebrities

unique walking tours london

Martyrs, Murderers & Merrymaking

unique walking tours london

Nazi Dogs, Playboys & Naughty Royals

unique walking tours london

Pigeons, Princes & Peculiarities

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Secrets, Scams & Superstition Tour

unique walking tours london

Hidden Signs, Films & Rivers of Beer

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The Experience

Our walks are created and led by accredited and knowledgeable guides who pepper their tours with humour, innovation and fun.

So as well as learning of the incredible history of this great city, you will have a good time too!

See what our tours are like – watch the video

Our tours are family friendly

  • United Kingdom

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

best walking tours in London

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

London Notting Hill Film Locations and Stars Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best London Walking Tours, 10 Incredible Routes

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

  • CityDays brings an immersive new way to have a walking tour in London
  • Discover London's historic landmarks, secret sights & hidden gems
  • Solve fun challenges & puzzling clues to unlock your way
  • Optional breaks at top-rated pubs, bars and cafes
  • Interactive private tour, you and your team, at your own pace
  • Full money back guarantee. We know you'll love it

What to expect on a CityDays Walking Tour

Don't have a great time? Simply let us know why and we'll refund you in full.

Find Your Perfect Walking Tour

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

Return of Jack the Ripper

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

All Gone South

The underbelly of medieval London… more

A Forbidden Fayre

Mayfair, more than a Monopoly square… more

A Rift In Time

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

Search For Shoreditch

Puzzling towards painted streets… more

Mysterious Mews

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

Greenwich Guile

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

Secrets of the Squares

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

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

Humanity's Last

How far are you willing to go to survive… more

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

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

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

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

A mix of clues, puzzles and photo challenges

Guided by clues sent to your phone

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

Learn snippets of history, optional breaks in pubs/cafes and a leaderboard for each game.

London Walking Tour Reviews

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

Bickle's Bongles

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

Donkeys@2pm

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

Jannie's jaunts

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

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

Amazing day out!!

spectacular

Team Kataraang

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

Doctor and the Cats

Great fun and interesting places to discover, especially Mercato Market

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

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

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

Malyha Kristian and Zeb

Smooth trail. Good level of some things we needed to think about but didn't find too hard.

The DIscoverers

Very well planned - fun and interesting experience - will be telling everyone

Eggcelent eggstravaganza

I needed a last minute activity for me and my teenage goddaughter. We both go to london a lot (I work there) and we sti…

Right level of difficulty, lovely weather, fab company.

Rich&Topher

Awesome walk

Sisters of another mister

What a super fun adventure!!! Finished Murder on the rocks in 2:34 mins!Looking forward to doing the other ones

GC & JC

So fun! Was a blast solving clues and walking around the city, walking by cute locations and finding new spots to check…

A great way to explore a city I thought I knew. Fascinating information.

Great time, lovely walk around Oxford city and although we live quite nearby there was a lot of interesting facts learn…

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The best self-guided walking tours in london.

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

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

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

10 Top London Walking Tours

Central London Walking Tour

1. Central London Walking Tour - Secrets of the Squares

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

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

Perfect for:

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

Mayfair Walking Tour

2. Mayfair Walking Tour - A Forbidden Fayre

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

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

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

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3. Dickens Themed Walking Tour - A Rift in Time

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

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

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

St Pauls, The City of London Walking Tour

4. City of London Walking Tour - The City

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

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

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

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

Southwark Walking Tour

5. Southwark Walking Tour - All Gone South

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

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

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

Greenwich Walking Tour

6. Greenwich Walking Tour - Greenwich Guile

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

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

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

Kensington Mews Walking Tour

7. Kensington Walking Tour - Mysterious Mews

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

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

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

Shoreditch Walking Tour

8. Shoreditch Walking Tour - Shoreditch Shuffle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find Hidden Gems in London

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

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

Paternoster Square

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

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

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Pelican Stairs

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

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

Leadenhall-Market-London

Leadenhall Market

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

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

The Best Historical London Walks

CityDays-London-Walking-Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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OBSCURE TOURS LONDON

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WHAT I OFFER

Although I do occasionally run public tours, I am primarily booked for private group tours with somewhere between four (often a family) and forty (generally Girl Scouts/ Girl Guides or Trefoil Ladies) people in total. I designed most as walking tours; sometimes with a component of public transport as well but there is always the option to do them on a coach to reduce the amount of walking involved. I provide a detailed itinerary to the driver for the coach tours, but you need to organise the minivan or coach itself. I offer competitive rates for my guiding services over a half-day (four hours) and full-day (eight hours) and you can combine one or more walking tours together with viewing tourist sights as part of a half-, or full-day programme. I am fully insured for walking tours as well as coach tour guiding. Please use the contact form function to contact me.

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HOW IT STARTED

I began giving biking and walking tours of central London for different companies about five years ago. After qualifying as a City of Westminster Tour Guide, I began developing my own tours, specialising in, among other topics, Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting history. As I enjoy looking at some rather unique and niche topics, I chose the name Obscure Tours! Why do the same old, same old when you look at something from a different perspective? The tours can be booked for private groups traveling with their own coach or as walking tours and are available in English or German. 

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    This is the number one tour I recommend to Love and London-ers, for a few reasons. It's a unique combo of walking tour in a very interesting, eclectic area — Shoreditch and Spitalfields in east London — plus yummy food tour. It doesn't just cover British dishes, but other foods that are important to the history of the area.

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    I offer competitive rates for my guiding services over a half-day (four hours) and full-day (eight hours) and you can combine one or more walking tours together with viewing tourist sights as part of a half-, or full-day programme. I am fully insured for walking tours as well as coach tour guiding. Please use the contact form function to ...