best london walking tour app

10 Best Self-Guided Walking Tour Apps to Explore More for Less!

• October 27, 2023
• Lauren Stuttaford

Let’s step into a world of self-guided exploration and uncover the hidden gems of iconic destinations like London, Rome, New York City, and Paris. That’s right, we’ve put together a list of the best self-guided walking tour apps. Imagine strolling long cobblestone streets, discovering charming neighborhoods, and immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture, all at your own pace. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the 10 best self-guided walking tour apps that will transform your tourist experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Say goodbye to rigid itineraries and hello to the freedom of discovering these renowned cities on your terms. Lace up those walking shoes!

10 Best Self-Guided Walking Tour Apps

Perfect for Scavenger Hunt-Style Exploration

Price: Free with in-app purchases

Location: Available worldwide

Available: iOS and Android

• Create thrilling scavenger hunt adventures for friends or family.
• Customize challenges and missions for an interactive experience.
• Real-time tracking to keep an eye on your fellow explorers.
• Engaging leaderboards for competitive outdoor fun.
• Ideal for team building, parties, and educational quests.

Goosechase turns any location into an exciting scavenger hunt. Whether you’re exploring a new city or simply want to add an adventurous twist to a day out, this app takes your outdoor escapades to a whole new level. Whish is why it’s earned a spot on our list of best app for self-guided walking tours. It’s perfect for families, friends, and team-building activities, making every step you take an opportunity for adventure and fun.

PocketSights

Perfect for Exploring With a Wealth of Historical Insights

• Access a rich library of self-guided tours in various cities.
• Offline maps and GPS navigation for seamless exploration.
• Dive deep into history with engaging audio guides and multimedia content.
• User-friendly platform ideal for tourists and history enthusiasts.
• Explore hidden gems and untold stories in popular tourist destinations.

PocketSights isn’t just like ordinary self-guided walking tour apps, it allows you to learn historical and cultural knowledge as you explore the streets and landmarks. Offline maps and user-friendly features, mean you can explore the past and unearth fascinating stories that bring each destination to life.

STQRY Guide

Perfect for Immersive Cultural and Historical Tours

• Explore a diverse collection of interactive stories and tours.
• Immerse yourself in museums, historical sites, and cultural landmarks.
• Enjoy offline content availability for uninterrupted tours.
• Share your experiences with fellow travelers.
• User-friendly platform designed for tourists and history enthusiasts.

STQRY Guide is undoubtedly one of the best free self-guided walking tour app. It’s ideal for travelers looking for immersive cultural and historical tours in popular tourist destinations worldwide. It’s got an extensive library of interactive stories, so you can explore museums, historical sites, and cultural landmarks like never before. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, STQRY Guide provides a seamless, offline experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace and share your discoveries with others.

Roadside America App

Perfect for Discovering Quirky and Unique Attractions

Price: $4.99

Location: Covers the United States and parts of Canada

• Unearth offbeat and bizarre roadside attractions.
• Navigate with detailed maps and directions.
• Discover hidden gems, oddities, and curiosities.
• Plan memorable road trips with customizable itineraries.
• User-friendly interface for all adventure seekers.

When it comes to the best self-guided tour apps, this one offers up something no other apps do. The Roadside America app helps you uncover the weird and wonderful world of offbeat roadside attractions across the United States and Canada. From giant rubber band balls to quirky museums and oddball landmarks, this app is perfect for discovering hidden gems and curiosities. Plus, detailed maps, directions, and customizable itineraries, mean you can plan unforgettable road trips filled with unique experiences.

Perfect for Curated City Tours and Local Recommendations

Location: Covers popular cities worldwide

• Access a treasure trove of expert-curated city tours.
• Discover hidden local gems, foodie hotspots, and cultural experiences.
• Offline maps and navigation for seamless exploration.
• Create custom itineraries based on your interests.
• Capture memories with in-app photo and journal features.

TripScout is a well-loved option on this list of best self-guided walking tour apps, mainly because it offers authentically curated city tours and insider recommendations in popular cities across the globe. It gives you access to a wealth of expert-curated content, so you can easily find hidden local gems, savor culinary delights, and immerse yourself in cultural experiences. You can also explore even when you don’t have an internet connection, since the app provides offline maps and navigation. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or simply an adventurous traveler, TripScout is worth download one of the best self-guided tour apps!

Rick Steve’s Audio Europe

Perfect for In-Depth Exploration of European Destinations

Price: Free

Location: Covers various European cities and destinations

• Access a library of immersive audio tours personally narrated by Rick Steve.
• Dive deep into European culture, history, and local insights.
• Offline audio content for on-the-go exploration.
• User-friendly interface suitable for tourists and independent travelers.
• Save and organize your favorite tours for future reference.

Looking for the best self-guided walking tour apps in Europe? Rick Steve’s Audio Europe offers an immersive exploration of European cities and destinations. Be guided across the country by travel expert Rick Steve, and you’ll quickly see why this is one of best city travel self-guided tour apps. Access offline audio content and explore at your own pace, even without an internet connection. Plus, you can save and organize your favorite tours!

Perfect for Guided Tours with Local Narrators

Location: Offers tours in various global destinations

• Explore with captivating audio-guided tours narrated by local experts.
• Discover hidden stories, historical insights, and cultural gems.
• Offline mode for uninterrupted adventures, no need for an internet connection.
• GPS integration ensures you never miss a point of interest.
• Create personalized tours and share your experiences with fellow travelers.

VoiceMap is another one of the best self-guided walking tour apps you should consider downloading. It offers an immersive exploration led by local narrators across diverse global destinations, as well as offline mode and GPS integration – so you never miss a point of interest along the way! Plus, VoiceMap lets you get creative and craft your own personalized tours, making it easy to share your experiences and insider knowledge with fellow travelers.

When it comes to the best self-guided tour apps, VoiceMap is one of our top picks.

Perfect for Self-Guided City Tours and Exploration

Location: Covers numerous cities worldwide

• Access an extensive library of self-guided city tours and travel articles.
• Turn-by-turn directions to popular landmarks and hidden gems.
• The flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Ideal for both first-time tourists and seasoned travelers.

GPSmyCity is your go-to app walking tour guide app offering a vast library of guided city walks and travel articles. With offline maps and GPS navigation, you can effortlessly explore your chosen destination, receiving turn-by-turn directions to popular landmarks and hidden gems. This walking tour guide app provides the freedom to explore at your own pace, making it suitable for both first-time tourists and seasoned travelers looking for a deeper dive into a city’s culture and history.

Perfect for Engaging, Location-Based Storytelling

Location: Offers tours worldwide

• Explore destinations with captivating location-based audio tours.
• Access a diverse range of tours covering cultural, historical, and natural highlights.
• Offline mode for uninterrupted travel, no need for an internet connection.
• Create your own tours and share your personal stories with the world.
• A user-friendly platform suitable for curious travelers and history enthusiasts.

GeoTourist offers an immersive, location-based storytelling experience as you explore destinations around the world. And that’s why we think it’s one of the best self-guided walking tour apps. It’s captivating audio tours provide cultural, historical, and natural insights, plus, the app’s offline mode means you can explore, even without an internet connection. You can also become a storyteller yourself by creating your own tours and sharing your personal stories with the world. Nifty, eh? It’s another reason, GeoTourist is one of our favorites for the best self-guided tour apps.

izi.TRAVEL Audio Tours

Perfect for Exploring with Expert-Guided Tours

Location: Covers numerous cities and cultural sites worldwide

• Access a vast collection of expert-guided tours at your fingertips.
• Offline mode for uninterrupted exploration without an internet connection.
• Rich multimedia content enhances your tour experience.
• Personalization options to create a tailored adventure.
• User-friendly platform suitable for tourists and history enthusiasts.

izi.TRAVEL is our final one on the list of apps for self-guided walking tours, and it’s also one of THE best self-guided audio tour apps. It offers expert-guided tours in numerous cities and cultural sites around the world, and personalization options, mean you have the flexibility to create a tailored adventure that suits your interests. Whether you’re a tourist or a history enthusiast, izi.TRAVEL makes every step of your journey more enriching and memorable.

How Air Doctor Can Help

Air Doctor  is an easy-to-use app that connects you with a global network of multi-lingual doctors and specialists so you can access medical care anywhere, anytime.

Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:

• A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
• Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
• Most common medical specialties
• Valid, local prescriptions
• 24/7 multi-lingual support
• Active in 75 countries
• Telemedicine services in up to 21 languages
• Transparent pricing, and reviews

Download the Air Doctor app and experience the world worry-free.

How to Plan a Visit to the Cinque Terre (and What to See)

Cinque Terre is the perhaps the most quintessential spot along the Italian Riviera. Here's what to see and where to...

36 Reasons Why You Should Visit Singapore

If you are busy planning out potential travel destinations for the coming year, here's why you visit Singapore.

The 10 Best Apps For Dispersed Camping

From GPS navigation to finding the best campsites, we’ve got a list of the best apps for dispersed camping.

Packing A Bike For Air Travel: What You Need To Know

From what you should know to putting it back together again, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about...

Comment augmenter les bénéfices des pharmacies : 20 méthodes simples

Vous voulez savoir comment augmenter les bénéfices de votre pharmacie ? Découvrez comment vous pouvez augmenter les ventes de votre...

Come Aumentare i Profitti Farmaceutici in 20 Semplici Modi

Vuoi sapere come aumentare i profitti della farmacia? Scopri subito come aumentare le vendite per la tua farmacia con queste...

Wie man den Gewinn einer Apotheke auf 20 einfache Arten steigern kann

Möchten Sie wissen, wie Sie den Gewinn Ihrer Apotheke steigern können? Erfahren Sie jetzt, wie Sie mit diesen 20 einfachen...

Cómo aumentar las ganancias de tu farmacia en 20 sencillos pasos

¿Quieres saber cómo aumentar las ganancias de tu farmacia? Descubre cómo con estas 20 sencillas estrategias.

Tutto Quello che Devi Sapere per Euro 2024

From stadiums to tips for traveling in Germany, we'll cover everything you need for your trip to Germany for the...

Jenny Cohen Derfler

Air dr ceo & co-founder.

Jenny is the CEO and one of the Co-Founders at Air Doctor. She spent more than 20 years at Intel, most recently as general manager of its manufacturing facility in Israel and before that in various engineering and manufacturing roles in Silicon Valley. Air Doctor is her second startup having previously founded electric vehicle company ElectRoad.

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

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

Free Self-Guided Walking Tour London

We offer several fully guided walking tours in London ; they run on a somewhat regular schedule, which means you might not always be able to join us.

That's why we compiled this list of free self-guided London walks, including self-guided food and theme tours, such as Harry Potter film locations.

We've broken up these tours into the following categories.

• Neighbourhood
• Themed Tours
• GPS-Guided Audio Tours
• Other Free Things to Do in London

And if you are considering a London hop-on-hop-off bus tour, then these self-guided tours will come in handy when you are off the bus. Read our reviews of the best London bus tours .

For more ways to save money, check out our London on a Budget Guide .

Self-Guided Neighbourhood Walking Tours

Though we love showing guests around London, we realize that not everyone has the time to take a guided walking tour.

If our tour schedule doesn't work for you, or if you would rather explore on your own, then take advantage of our totally free self-guided tours!

The free tours we offer below cover:

• City of London
• Royal London
• Piccadilly & St James
• River Thames

Self-Guided City of London Tour

This tour takes you through Old London. Classic sites include St Paul's Cathedral, London Bridge, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge.

You can even watch a condensed virtual version of this tour right now.

Click on the map to enlarge it or download it to a smartphone

We also have a GPS-enabled audio tour version  (sample below) and a pay-what-you-wish live guided tour option . 

Royal London Self-Guided Walking Tour

You can't leave London without seeing many of the sites included in this list.

Some of our favorites are Buckingham Palace, St. James' Palace, Big Ben, Parliament, and Trafalgar Square. 

Click on the map to enlarge it or download it to a smartphone .

We also offer a pay-what-you-like live-guided Royal London Tour option  as well as a GPS-enabled audio tour version .

Camden Town

Once known as the Rock n' Roll capital of the world, Camden Town is now a popular tourist destination offering many great things to do.

This is a self-guided tour to show the visitor some of the many interesting things to see in Camden Town London.

Piccadilly and St. James Walking Tour

One of the most popular touristic areas located in London's West End, this self-guided tour will cover places like Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus.

We also offer two guided walks that correspond to this self-guided tour, our guided tour of Soho and our Rock N Roll London Tour . 

River Thames Self-Guided Walking Tour

The best tour for photography enthusiasts!

This picturesque tour takes you along the River Thames to see sites such as the Millennium Bridge, London Eye, and Shakespeare Globe Theatre.

This tour is a great option for an evening walk. In fact, we offer this as a guided tour , usually from April through October.

And check out our audio tour version. Here's a sample.

Be sure to check out our guide to things to do at night in London for even more ideas for nighttime activities.

Self-Guided Royal Borough of Greenwich Walking Tour

Enjoy a leisurely walk through this posh neighborhood that will take you to sites like Greenwich Park, the Queen's House, and the Trafalgar.

A great way to get to Greenwich is by boat cruise .

Hyde Park and Kensington Walking Tour

This will take you through beautiful Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, past a posh royal palace and picturesque art galleries and museums.

SELF-GUIDED THEMED TOURS

In this section, we list several tours based on individuals, bands, movies, or ghosts. We offer free self guided tours covering:

• Harry Potter
• Jack the Ripper
• Downton Abbey
• Roman History
• Literary London - Hampstead Heath
• Jimi Hendrix
• David Bowie
• Haunted London
• Queen (the band, not the royal!)

Harry Potter Self-Guided Walking Tour

Dive into the magical world of Harry Potter!

This particular tour will focus on film sites in the northern part of London, such as Leadenhall, Australia House, Platform 9 3/4 as well as many other famous sights.  

Click on the map to enlarge or download to a smartphone

We also offer a guided Harry Potter Tour  as well as a GPS-enabled audio tour version .

Guide to Beatles in London  

Although John, Paul, George, and Ringo hailed from Liverpool, there are plenty of London landmarks for Beatles-lovers to get their fix.

From recording studios to concert venues, shops to roof-top performances, London is filled with hot-spots for fans of the Fab Four. 

There are many guided tours of Beatles sites with live tour guides and other fans. We offer a twice-weekly Rock N Roll London guided tour.

We also have a post on how to get to the Abbey Road Crosswalk .

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jack the Ripper Sites  

Try your hand at solving one of the most famous unsolved murder cases in history.

Our Jack the Ripper tour guides you through the area of London where the felon committed his most notorious crimes.

We've even included a photo from that era to give you a sense of how the city looked.  

We also offer a live-guided option for Jack the Ripper  as well as a GPS-enabled audio tour version .

Downton Abbey London Sights  

Downton Abbey exploded onto our screens in 2010 and people from all over the world watched the lives and exploits of the Crowley Family and all the characters surrounding them.

Although Downton Abbey has finished airing, it’s still as popular as ever.

For visitors who have traveled to the U.K. hoping to see some Downton Abbey locations and inspirations, here is our helpful guide to London’s Downton Abbey connections! 

Roman London Walking Tour  

Get a better sense of just how powerful the Roman Empire once was with this tour.

Sites include the Temple of Mithras and a piece of the Roman Wall, which dates back 2,000 years.

James Bond Tour  

Use your feet and the London Underground to visit sights related to James Bond in London.

You'll see a variety of historic sites such as Somerset, Buckingham Palace, and Whitehall, and you'll learn all about their connections to the character.

Literary Walking Tour - Hampstead Heath  

Hampstead was the birthplace of big names in the literary industry.

Hampstead is considered one of the more beautiful London boroughs and it is full of places for true literature lovers to explore.

Jimi Hendrix Sights  

London was an important city for this American rock legend. We offer a twice-weekly Rock N Roll London guided tour.

David Bowie Sights  

Born in London, David Bowie left an indelible mark on this city. We offer a twice-weekly Rock N Roll London guided tour.

London Ghost Tour  

Only for those bold enough to take a ghost tour on their own! Want some company? Join us for a guided ghost tour of London.

Wizards of London Game

This self-guided walking tour london app puts you in the shoes of a wizard to solve a mystery while discovering some of the most notable sites in the city.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Questo Experiences (@questoapp)

Haunted London Game

Discover the more frightening side of London's history as you attempt to solve a mystery during this haunted self-guided exploration game.

Queen: The Quest Must Go On Game

Fans of the band Queen may want to consider taking part in this self-guided exploration game which will task them with solving a mystery based on their music.

SELF GUIDED LONDON FOOD TOURS

Wandering the streets of London can make you hungry so why not learn some history, trivia and find some good snacks along the way.

We offer free self-guided food tours covering:

• East London
• Soho, Chinatown, Piccadilly
• Covent Garden

Borough Market

East london food tour  .

It is possible to eat from any of the world’s cuisines when you are in the East End of London, but here is a small DIY tour that will have you sampling some of the best the East End has to offer those with a hunger for delicious food.  

Be sure to check out our pay-what-you-wish  tour guide-led version  (watch video above).

Soho, Chinatown, and Piccadilly Food Tour  

Explore culturally and culinarily diverse neighborhoods of Soho, Chinatown, and Piccadilly.

We've curated a list of the best restaurants in the area to give you a real taste of London!

Exmouth Market Food Tour

Venture out to Exmouth Market, the “real” London tucked just far away from other touristy parts with the best street food that London offers.

Covent Garden Food Tour  

Try out the culinary delights in one of London's liveliest neighborhoods in the West End.

Discover the best eats you can find in Borough Market and get some ideas for what types of food you might want to get here. 

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

North America

United kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Europe Chevron

United Kingdom Chevron

England Chevron

London Chevron

15 Best Walking Tours in London

By Julia Buckley

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

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

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

Tales of Plague Arrow

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

London Fire Walk Arrow

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

Jermyn Street Fashion Walk Arrow

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

Mayfair: A Spy's Guide Arrow

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

Historic Pubs, Food & Beer Tour Arrow

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

Tour for Muggles Arrow

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

London Urban Adventures: Soho Historic Pubs Tour Arrow

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

Shoreditch Street Art Tours Arrow

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

Walk Eat Talk Eat Arrow

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

SideStory Travel: The Actor's Stage Arrow

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

Black History Walks: Notting Hill Arrow

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

Undiscovered London: Camden Markets and Musical Legends Tour Arrow

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

London Loo Tour Arrow

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

East End Walks Arrow

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

Royal London Full Day Experience Arrow

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

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Tourist Walks

Walks in England

Other walks.

Our tours takes you around London .From The West End to Westminster also see pubs, ghosts, the Beatles and Harry Potter.

King George VI said that "The history of York is the history of England". Experience that history on our walks.

Explore the Royal Mile, the Old and New Town, pubs, ghosts, and Harry Potter with us on our walks in Edinburgh.

Explore this beautiful city, follow Jane Austen, and see all the tourist spots on our walks. 

Our tours takes you around all the best places in Oxford. You can then pause the app to visit them

Bristol is full of great places to visit and see, including the works of Banksy, the harbour and of course the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Explore the docks, the city and the Beatles with us on our walks in Liverpool.

Explore this beautiful city, from te Castle to the wonderful Cardiff Bay. 

Our tours takes you around all the best places in Glasgow. You can then pause the app to visit them

The Benefits of Using this App

Each walk delivers a unique and fascinating user experience. Through Tourist Walks’ self guided tour application you can explore the hidden gems created by local experts. For people wanting to explore the neighbourhood and experience the local culture, we provide a unique experience of exploring the city using GPS guided audio tours. The APP is FREE, each walk is priced individually and you can buy all the walks for a City for a discounted price.

Full Audio Visual Commentary

Tourist Walks is an application that can give you the freedom to explore the famous walks at your own discretion. We have created a full audio-visual self-guided experience that gives you the confidence to explore and discover the stories of various cities on your own.

Visit the Best Tourist Sites & Explore Them

Get a list of all the tourist sites you can visit. The Tourist Walks application will guide you to your next destination because every journey starts with a single step.

GPS and Multilingual Audio and Text Guidance

Even if you don’t understand the local language of the city you are visiting, Don’t worry. Audio guided walks have multilingual text assistance that will guide you in your native language.

Start/Stop/Rewind /Restart Go at Your Own Pace

Tourist Walks’ audios are narrated by professionals who will keep you entertained while you are walking your way to the next destination.  We help you discover the city around you in a more impressive way.

Download the Walk App & Use Offline. No Mobile Data Required.

It is always frustrating when you wish to travel somewhere but your mobile phone service is out-of-order. Don’t worry! Tourist Walks comes with an offline version of built-in maps you might need, even without internet access.

• Full Audio Visual
• Tourist Sites
• Multilingual Texts
• Easy Audio Access
• Offline App

FREE App & Walk Summaries

Each walk delivers a unique and fascinating user experience. Through Tourist Walks’ self guided tour application you can explore the hidden gems created by local experts. For people wanting to explore the neighbourhood and experience the local culture, we provide a unique experience of exploring the city using GPS guided audio tours. The App is FREE, and all the walk summaries are FREE, each walk is individually priced and you can buy all the walks for a city at a discounted price.

Visit the Best Tourist Sites & Explore Them

Tourist Walks’ audios are narrated by professionals who will keep you entertained while you are walking your way to the next destination. We help you discover the city around you in a more impressive way.

Download the Walk App & Use Offline. No Mobile Data Required.

How it works.

The Tourist Walks App is for those who need to discover cities but in a more flexible way. The aim of the App is to provide great circular walks, in each City to satisfy any tourist looking for enjoying the experience in terms of the sights, the information and the flexibility to discover a city at your own pace.

List of Top Walks

Harry Potter - London Walk

Imagine going to a completely different city and exploring it on foot, without having to ask for directions or excellent recommendations or yummy places to eat. It feels surreal, right? But you might feel overwhelmed to navigate a whole new destination alone, we understand. To give you a phenomenal experience of visiting breathtaking destinations around the city alone or with your loved ones, we have brought you a budget-friendly Harry Potter guided tour. These tours not only allow you to travel independently but also help you save money on highly-priced guides. Let’s jump right into the wonders of the Harry Potter walking tour with Tourist Walks.

Historic Pub - London Walk

London is known for its rich historical surroundings packed with pubs from pre-victorian times. But you might wonder if you would be able to explore and soak in its history all alone. Well, with a historic pub tour in London, you can unrestrictedly visit absolutely stunning pubs without worrying about being lost in a strange city. Oh, and without spending big money on guides. Let’s soak in the magic of historical pubs around the city with Tourist Walks.

York Ghost Walk

Do you like to explore places that have paranormal mysteries? If yes, then this ghost trail in York is for you. On this York ghost tour, we’ll take you through narrow and dark passages while unfolding spine-chilling tales of these spots. This walk would be quite a hair-raising experience at a pretty modest price. Let’s jump on the best ghost walk in York and indulge in the dark side of York.

York Old Town Walk

Old Town is brimming with places that spill the history and origination of the city. It would be delightful and astonishing to witness all the medieval period buildings, museums, and much more. You’ll have your historical horizons expanded after this York tour. And all this at your own pace with a budget-friendly price without splurging on pricy guides? Yes, that’s the deal. Are you ready to explore some historic sites? Let’s hop on with Tourist Walks.

Do you wish to explore all the beautiful tourist spots? Download our application and discover the hidden beauty and mystery of your destination. Explore today!

Attractions Video Gallery

Happy tourists.

I absolutely enjoyed using the Tourist Walk app! The guided walking tours are very informative and interesting. I was able to find the tour I wanted quickly and easily, and the app was very easy to navigate. The walking tour itself was a lot of fun, and I learned a lot about the city. Overall, I would highly recommend this.

Jane Austin

Tourist Walk is an excellent walking guide app. It is extremely user-friendly and provides great information on the various tours available. I would highly recommend this app to anyone visiting a new city!

Gabriel Evans

Tourist Walk is an amazing app that provides guided tours of various cities. The app is extremely user-friendly and easy to navigate. I was able to find the tour I was looking for quickly and easily. The tour itself was very informative and interesting. I would highly recommend this app to anyone visiting a new city!

Mark Spenser

Frequently asked questions.

No. After the walks have been downloaded, for which you need an internet connection, no mobile data is required to do the walks.

No you can pause and resume at any point within the walk. Whether you need a coffee or a comfort break the walks are entirely flexible.

Yes you will receive both verbal guidance and a GPS enabled map to take you around each of the points of interest on the walks.

No the walks are circular so you will receive multiple options of where to start each walk.

Yes there are providing you buy them as a bundle, not one at a time. You can even buy all the walks in one package at a very generous price.

For each point of interest you will get information both verbally and in text and sometimes video form together with helpful images to get the most from each one.

You can pay by all manner of credit and debit cards as well as Paypal.

In the walk summary we point out if the walk is suitable for wheelchairs and pets, and there is also an indication of the distance of the walk, and how long it will take.

Yes we would love to hear from you through our website: www.touristwalks.co.uk

• lol Badge Feed
• win Badge Feed
• trending Badge Feed

Browse links

• © 2024 BuzzFeed, Inc
• Consent Preferences
• Accessibility Statement

21 Apps That Will Change The Way You Look At London

If you're tired of London apps, you're tired of life.

BuzzFeed Staff, UK

1. Great Little Place

The app calls itself "Tinder for places," and lets you teach it your taste as you swipe left or right on location recommendations throughout the city. The app is full of thoughtful suggestions, and its sleek, familiar interface makes it an easy companion.

Free on iOS , with Android, Window, and Blackberry versions coming soon.

2. Movie Map London

Follow your favourite films throughout London. This handy app pinpoints famous sites used in London-based films over the years, so you can visit Will's blue door from Notting Hill , follow James Bond throughout the city, and more.

Get it free for £0.79 for iOS .

3. Culture Key

Find the best art and culture events in London with ease using the handy Culture Key app. The app offers a curated list of art, theatre, and music events, as well as guided walks and festival information. A smooth interface and highly thoughtful collection of events and exhibitions make it an easy go-to for a cultured night out.

Get it free for iOS .

4. StrollOn

Get your own personal audio tour of London with StrollOn. This useful app is great for getting out in a walk in the warm weather – maybe even replacing your morning commute with a thought-provoking walk in.

5. A Hollow Body

Unveiled in tandem with the Museum of London's Sherlock Holmes exhibit, this walk through London combines soundscapes and narrative to create an engaging and mysterious walk through the city for two and will give you an experience in the city like you've never had before.

6. London Market Guide

For a complete guide to the London markets on the go, check out this useful app. You can search by your area and what you're shopping for, as well as get a detailed history of the area if you're interested.

Get it for £1.49 for iOS .

7. Blue Plaques

Walk through history on a self-guided tour following London's blue plaques using this handy app. With over 17,000 of the historical markers on file, the app is certain to teach you a thing or two about any area you happen to be in, and is a great way to plan a walk.

Get it for free for iOS , or check out the similar Blue Plaques London for Android .

8. Street Stories

Take a fascinating walk in the King's Cross area using Street Stories from the Guardian. The lovely audio app features over 2 hours of atmospheric and informative content about the historic central London area, featuring interviews, music, and stories that will enrich your knowledge and experience.

Get it free for iOS and Android .

9. Horrible London

See London's spooky side with this handy self-guided tour app of the city's most haunted and historically horrible places.

10. Beatles Walk London

Explore London as you make your way through 18 Beatles-related locations across the city. The app is designed to help you visit each site individually or to connect them all with a walk through the city.

Get it for £0.79 for iOS .

11. Tour 2 London

This handy app features 22 different guided walks, including Harry Potter and Shakespeare themed walking tours, and is the perfect go to for exploring the city on your own!

Get it for free on iOS .

12. Quirky London

Explore London's most underrated spots with this handy app, which is designed to direct you towards less commercialised and less crowded gems throughout the city.

13. Jack the Ripper – East London

Track London's most notorious criminal on the guided tour of Whitechapel. The well-designed and informative app will take you through East London and teach you about the creepy Victorian serial killer case.

14. Magic in Modern London

This gorgeous GPS-based game will make you see London in a whole new light. Designed by the Wellcome Trust, the app overlays a gorgeously detailed map of the city from 1908 over the modern map, and combines historical readings, factoids, and clues to guide you an a unique hunt for history throughout the city.

15. Field Trip

Field Trip is the pocket tour guide you've been waiting for. The app uses your location to make recommendations for food and attractions as well as offering local history.

16. Banksy London Tour

Follow the the tracks of mysterious graffiti artist Banksy across the city with this handy guided walk. The app includes a wealth of information about Banksy's work that can be accessed remotely, and an interactive map to lead you on his trail throughout London.

Get it for £2.29 for iOS .

17. Walking With Dickens

Follow Charles Dickens and his timeless novels through the streets of London with this app, offering a series of guided walks inspired by Dickens' life, the locations in his books, and the history of the Industrial revolution.

18. Hidden London

Plan days out to some underrated but lovely spots across the city. The easy-to-navigate Hidden London app offers an exhaustive A-Z list of little gems in London.

19. Soho Stories

Don't walk around Soho without being plugged into this rich app from the National Trust. Soho Stories uses your location to share stories of Soho's history – every street brings a new tidbit, narrated by famous Soho-based entertainer Barry Cryer.

20. Spotted by Locals

This handy city guide curate suggestions by locals so you can see new sides to several European cities, London included, from someone who knows their local area. With lots on on and offline information at hand, you can explore a new corner of the city with ease and savoir-faire.

21. Global Treasure Apps

Spice up a walk by using a guided treasure trail to look at a familiar or new area in a whole new light. The Global Treasure app offers clue-driven walks in London and elsewhere around the world to make an exploration extra fun and help you discover noks and crannies of the area you might have bypassed.

Share This Article

41 Best Must Have London Apps- For Tourists & Londoners!

Whether you’re a born and raised Londoner, or you’re a tourist just visiting for the weekend, you’ll need this list of best London apps to help you navigate the city, and perhaps even save some money in the process.

From travel and transport (we’ve got a hot tip that will save you 1/3 off your tube journeys at the weekend!) to entertainment, food, groceries and daily living. You can bet that your life will be made that little bit easier with these apps. Most of the apps are free to use, and so there’s no excuse not to use them.

You might even find that you impress your friends with your new found knowledge! Let’s get into it…

Page Contents

London Travel Apps

1) citymapper.

Citymapper is a must-have app if you’re a Londoner OR if you travel frequently. It is compatible with citites all over the world, and it’s especially good for anyone who is using public transport in London.

Use the app to find available routes to your destination. Citymapper will show you different route options, how long they take and how much they cost.

If you are in London, you’ll most likely get shown a couple of routes on The Tube, a bus route, walking, cycling, and possibly even a cab. It’ll break down the most cost efficient and time efficent options- all you have to do is pick one!

2) Tube Map

Tube Map does what it says on the tin, and is an app you can use to plan your journeys in London on the London Underground. I really like it because the app allows you to map journeys even when you’re offline. It’s super helpful when you’re already underground and the train decides it’s going to terminate half way through your journey!

When you ARE connected to the internet, it’ll estimate the real time of your journey, how long it will take you to transfer between stations, and also if there are any delays, distruption or strikes on the tube lines.

I’m sure most of you reading this will already have Uber downloaded on your phone, but if you don’t and you’re visiting London, I’d recommend it! Not only is Uber (usually) cheaper than a black cab, your driver will come to you.

That means you don’t have to find a taxi rank or go into a town centre to get a taxi. It’s super convenient, and in London a driver is usually with you within 5 minutes.

For £5 off your first 5 Uber trips, use my referral code hqms13svx1v8 when you download the app.

Bolt is very similar to Uber. As a Londoner, I’ll always check both apps to see which one is cheapest for my journey. You will also find that Bolt frequently offer deals like “20% off your next 5 rides” which make the pricing very competitive when compared to Uber.

From my experience, there’s not always as many drivers listed on Bolt, so you may need to wait for up to 10 minutes for a driver. However, the Bolt app will tell you the wait time before you go ahead with the journey, so you can check this and make a decision beforehand.

Download Bolt using my link to get a discount off your first ride.

5) TFL Oyster and contactless app

This is a true must-have app for London. If you’re living in London or visiting London, always pay with either Oyster or contactless payment when you travel- it saves you SO MUCH money on your journeys.

And if you’re using Oyster or contactless payment, you’ll want to download this free app from TFL . Not only can you top up your Oyster card on the go, but you can also view your travel history, flag any incomplete journeys, and make sure you haven’t been overcharged (it happens more than you think).

Another little known bonus of using an Oyster card, is that you can get a third off, off-peak travel on TFL (including the London Underground) if you have a rail card . All you need to do is ask a station attendant to add your rail card to your Oyster card for you.

6) London live bus countdown

If you’ve ever taken a London bus before, you know how unreliable the bus times can be! Sometimes you can be left wondering if your bus is ever going to come… especially if there are road works or diversions in place.

Enter London Live Bus Countdown . It’s a free app that allows you to see exactly when your next bus is coming via live data received from Transport For London (TFL). If you ever catch the bus, or plan on taking the bus in the future- you need this app on your phone.

7) Santander Cycles

Previously known as ‘Boris Bikes,’ Santander Cycles are such a fun way to get around in London. You pay just £1.65 for a journey up to 30 minutes, so it’s affordable too.

There are more than 800 docking stations around London- and the free app can tell you where your nearest docking station is with available bikes. Very important to avoid disappointment! There is also a map so that you can plan your journey.

8) Trainline

Trainline is essential for anyone booking trains out of London to different towns and cities across the UK. Not only can you pay for your tickets easily, you can also add your rail card and get the cheapest price (they use SplitSave to get you the cheapest combination of tickets).

The app will also tell you which platform to get your train from. But, for the most accurate information on train platforms, you’ll want to head to realtimetrains.co.uk , a website that forecasts train platforms. It’s invaluable to get ahead of that scramble as soon as the platform is announced!

Have you seen those cool electric scooters in London? They are provided by a company called Lime. It’s easy to use and hire the scooters when you have the Lime app . You can also hire e-bikes, for greener travel around London.

Use the app to discover a nearby ride (Lime isn’t yet available in every London borough, but is very prevalent in Central London), pay, and then unlock the ride!

10) Appyway parking app

Use appyway  to find free parking in London . You can use their kerbside maps to help you plan your journey and find free parking spaces.

The parking app can also help you to navigate congestion, and understand any street parking rules, including meters, permits and more.

Food & Drink Apps In London

No, Dojo isn’t about local martial arts gyms, it’s actually about restaurants! More specifically, it’s about queuing for those ‘no reservations’ restaurants (which, let’s be honest, is many of the restaurants in Central London).

So how does it work? The Dojo app allows you to join a ‘virtual queue’ once you’re within throwing distance of your chosen restaurant. Instead of queuing in the rain for half an hour (we’ve all done it!) you can instead pop to a nearby pub to wait your turn for a table to become available. It’s definitely one of the best London apps to have in your toolbox whether you’re a tourist or a local.

12) OpenTable

OpenTable is a restaurant reservation service. Often, restaurants will already be partnered with OpenTable on their own websites, so it’s just a matter of inputting your details online to reserve a time.

The app on the other hand, makes reservations even simpler, and it’s the perfect way to search for new restaurants. You can simply search by location, cuisine, and read reviews and menu options.

13) The Pub Finder

Brits love the pub. So if you’re visiting London, you’ll want to experience a couple of them while you’re in the city! And if you’re a Londoner? You can use the app to find the highest rated pubs, with customer reviews and ratings.

The Pub Finder is a free app with over 26,000 pubs listed! It’s so simple to use- the brighter the colour of the pub on a map, the better the rating. You’ll never have to drink in a shoddy pub again.

14) DUSK app

DUSK is a drinks app that allows you to accrue points to redeem against free drinks. All you need to do, is link your card and earn DUSK points every time you spend at your favourite bars.

While using the app, out for the ‘free drink button’ in the bars list or the free drink pin on the map. Once you arrive at the venue, simply tap the free drink button. You must show the bartender the drink confirmation screen in order to claim your drink.

15) Too Good To Go

Too Good To Go is an app that is fighting food waste- and it’s particularly popular in London. The app lists foods from eateries- from big supermarkets to local bakeries. You can pick up a bag of food for about £4.

The small downside of Too Good To Go is that you don’t know exactly what you’re getting in each bag. You may end up with lots of sweet treat, but hey, that’s not always a bad thing!

Olio  is another app that’s fighting waste. It’s a community app where users can list items, or pick up food or other items from neighbours or stores for free.

Luckily, in London there are plenty of users. That means you should find people in your area with unwanted food, and likewise you can probably find someone to pick up your unwanted food. Perfect if you’re about to go on holiday for a while.

17) Uber Eats

We already mentioned Uber on this list, but Uber Eats also deserves a mention as a food delivery app. Once you download Uber, you’ll have access to Uber Eats too.

You can order from restaurants and takeaways all over London with Uber Eats, and you can even get shopping delivered from the supermarket too. Perfect for those days when you just can’t get to the supermarket!

18) Deliveroo

Deliveroo is another food delivery app where you can order food from all over the city (within reason). You’ll have access to a ton of restaurants and fast food outlets in your local area, and a few neighbourhoods over too.

Like Uber Eats, Deliveroo also gives you the option to order grocery shopping from local stores. It’s great if you don’t want to walk in the rain, or it’s late at night.

London Money Apps

19) splittr.

Splittr is an incredible app for anyone who often dines out with groups of friends, or anyone who lives in a house share. It’s even great if you want to split costs with your partner, or on a group holiday.

The idea behind Splittr, is that it makes it easy to split a bill or a cost. You’ll never need to chase anyone for payment again! Simply add expenses as you go and Splittr will tell you who is next to pay and who owes whom how much.

All currencies are supported on the app, and best of all, it’s free to use!

If you’re living in London, you’ll most likely need to be abreast of your money management due to the high cost of living in the city. One way to easily keep on top of that? An automated app.

I love using  Snoop  as a money management and budgeting tool. It’s free to use, and you can view all of your accounts in one place, and track your spending accordingly. In my opinion, it’s one of the very best London apps for Londoners on a budget (or anyone on a budget, to be honest!)

Snoop tracks all your spending for you, and allocates everything into categories. It means that you can take a pretty laid back approach to tracking spending, while still getting the data you need to stay on top of your money.

21) Apple Pay

If you’re an iPhone user, you need to set up Apple Pay. Not only does it mean you can easily tap into The Tube using your phone, you can also pay for most things from your phone.

There is a problem with pickpockets in Central London, and so if you can, it’s always good to have a back up plan for making payments if your wallet gets stolen.

Wise , formerly known as TransferWise, is a fantastic way to transfer and exchange money internationally. It’s super easy to do via the app, and you save a heck of a lot on feeds when sending money abroad.

If you’ve moved to London from abroad and you want to send money back home? You need to download Wise asap. Trust me, you will love it.

Now, Monzo isn’t necessarily a total must have app as a Londoner. It does come with a little consideration because Monzo is an actual bank account.

However, there are SO many people in London who bank with Monzo, and therefore, whenever you are out with friends, one person will usually ask “can I Monzo you the money?” This is because Monzo make it super easy to send money to friends, just by using their phone number.

Monzo also has some great budgeting features like saving pots, and automatic expense tracking, so it’s worth checking out if you think you could benefit.

24) Topcashback

Topcashback  is an app (and website) that you can use to get cashback on your everyday purchases. It works on the basis that whenever you click through to a retailer website via  Topcashback , the retailer will pay Topcashback a small commission (also known as an affiliate payment) for referring you to their website. Topcashback will keep some of that commission for themselves, and then pass on the rest to you.

I use the app for absolutely everything that I buy online. I have received hundreds of pounds back in cashback over the years, and it’s totally worth using to get some extra money while living in London.

25) Jam Doughnut

Jam Doughnut  is another excellent way to get cashback on your everyday spending. The basis of the app is that you buy a voucher first to cover the amount of your spending. For example, you buy a voucher worth £100.

You’ll then receive cashback on your shop which is instantly added to your wallet on the app. For example, when you shop at Tesco, you can receive 3.5% cashback currently. If your grocery shop costs £100 per week, you’ll get back £3.50 per week, or £14 over 4 weeks. Over the course of a year that’s £182!

 📱 Download the app for free   and use my code YVVR to get a £4 bonus when you use the app for the first time

26) Airtime Rewards

Yet another way to get cashback! Use  Airtime Rewards to get cashback on your purchases and offset this against your phone bill. You can receive cashback from retailers such as Boots, Wilkos, Waitrose, Matalan and many more.

You can connect your debit card to the Airtime Rewards app, and instantly receive cashback. There’s no need to complete your purchase within the app itself. Use my referral code  9F333XJG , to get 50p to get started.

Apps for groceries in London

Sign up for a Tesco Clubcard and manage your account through the Tesco app . If you regularly shop at Tesco, this is an absolute must due to the prevelance of Clubcard Prices where you can often make big savings on your groceries.

You’ll also accrue Clubcard Points which you can then redeem against your shopping or other experiences or purchases.

If you live near a Co-op store in London, you need the Co-op app . Each week you will get a choice of two vouchers which you can redeem in store.

Often, these are vouchers like ’50p off Nestle chocolate’ or ’50p of bakery items’ which goes a long way for a little treat once a week! The best way to use these vouchers? Use them against a ‘yellow sticker’ reduced item to get the most out of your voucher.

29) Waitrose

Similarly to the Co-op, Waitrose Card members can select two vouchers per week from the Waitrose app to redeem against their shopping.

Annoyingly, these vouchers are usually on specific items, so you don’t get the same choice that you do when you shop at the Co-op.

However, the vouchers are usually based on what you’ve previously bought. So, you might find these useful. Plus, you can get free coffee with a purchase, and a free magazine as a Waitrose member.

30) Shopmium

Shopmium  is a free and fun app that you can use to to pick up free food items from supermarkets. The reason the items are available is usually due to a new product launch.

As well as freebies, you can also get significantly reduced food items from the app. All you need to do is scan your receipt to be credited with the difference! Use my referral code  TU4U38  to get a free bag of Cadbury’s chocolate buttons when you  sign up and can your receipt.

31) Chop Chop

Chop Chop is a fantastic food delivery app from Sainsbury’s. You can do a small Sainsbury’s shop from within the app, and an hour later have the food delivered to your door!

The prices are a little more expensive than the in-store prices, but this is super handy if you’re not able to get out of the house to do a food shop for whatever reason.

And if you regularly shop at Sainsbury’s? Make sure that you register for a Nectar Card to access Nectar Prices and scoop up those savings!

Gopuff was founded in America, but it’s made its way across the pond to London. With Gopuff you can get food, drink, and everyday items delivered to your door in 30 minutes.

It’s another app to have in your phone for those moments when you just can’t leave the house! Whether it’s late at night, you have a baby, or you are feeling under the weather.

Event and ticket apps for London

33) tiqets app.

Tiqets is a free app that links to hundreds of different attractions and events in the city, all in one place! You can use the app offline to view your tickets, so you don’t need to be connected to the internet to get your ticket scanned (a bonus if you’re travelling to London from abroad!)

You can also access guides within the app, as well as reviews from other visitors.

Fever puts the coolest events and experiences (ever heard of those Candlelight Concerts?) in London at your fingertips. Use their app to search for upcoming events and book tickets (some events of which are exclusive to Fever).

On the app you’ll also find a map showing the locations of all of the events, reviews and user recommendations, and even have access to Fever Club. Fever Club is a reward system on all ticket purchases.

35) TodayTix

Use the TodayTix app to access the best prices and availability for London performances such as West End shows, opera and dance. You can filter your search based on genre, price and date. Checkout is quick, and your tickets are easily accessed digitally. It’s definitely one of the best London apps for theatre buffs.

When you download the TodayTix app , you also get access to ticket lotteries for West End theatre tickets. Use the Lottery and Rush filters to find the lotteries in London. If selected, you’ll be notified by the app and by email, and you’ll have 30 minutes to claim your tickets.

36) Seatplan

SeatPlan  is app that you can use to see the ‘real life’ view from seats before you book tickets to a production. For example, if the only seats left say ‘restricted view’ you can find out just how good or bad the view is, instead of taking a chance on the booking.

You can also use the app to build up points to redeem against theatre tickets. If you’re a big theatre fan, you can upload photos of the view from your seat, and build up points. Build up enough points, and you could score a f r ee theatre ticket !

37) Eventbrite

I love using Eventbrite to discover new and interesting events, talks, and shows across London. You’ll find niche performances, classes, and even some free stuff too.

Use the Eventbrite app to browse events based on location, price, and date. You won’t be disappointed, and you’ll be able to find an event for everything. From free dance classes , to pottery schools.

Helpful apps for London

38) accessable app.

AccessAble is your accessibility guide, that you can use in London. The app includes 75,000 Detailed Access Guides that tell you all about a venue’s access. They are 100% facts, figures and photographs.

The information is trustworthy, and even includes photos and measurements, so that you can be prepared with the knowledge you need before you start your journey.

39) Toilets4London

Toilets4London is revolutionising toilet access in the city. No more buying things in cafes or bars just so that you can use their loos! The app is best way to find publicly accessible toilets in London.

And it’s not just any toilet-finding app. Toilets4London work closely with local authorities, community groups and local businesses to encourage more clean and open toilets in London.

40) Refill App

The refill app isn’t just a water app (although it is very handy to show you where you can refill your water bottle in the city!) It also shows you a variety of places to reduce, reuse and refill.  The app lists over 300,000 refill stations- offering refills for water, coffee, food containers and plastic-free shopping.

If you’re on a mission to reduce waste and your impact on the environment, this is a helpful London app for you to have in your back pocket.

41) Met Office Weather

If you’re a Brit, or you know a Brit, you’ll know that we love talking about the weather. Namely, whether it’s going to rain or not.

The weather can be very changeable in London, so it’s a good idea to download the Met Office Weather app so that you are always prepared with an umbrella if needed. Alternatively, sometimes it will be cold in the morning and you’ll need sunscreen by noon. It’s a lottery! Which is why making good use of a weather app will stand you in good stead in the city.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

21 Best London Walking Tours in 2024 (ranked!)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Easy Guide: Best London Walking Tours

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

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

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Hidden London Walking Tour  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Jack the Ripper Walking Tour in London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour in London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Private Custom Walking Tour: Day Tour of London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. London: Landmarks and Harry Potter Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Historic London Pubs Private Walking Tour

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

• Pickup from select hotels
• 6 historic pubs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are other exciting stops too!

10. Haunted London Pub Walking Tour

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

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

Are you a fan of horror?

Love visiting haunted sites?

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. London Bridge Ghost Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Private Sherlock Holmes Walking Tour in London  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. London Police and Crime Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Historic Pub Walking Tour of London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Historic London City Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The tour also includes a very informative history lesson.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. The Beatles London Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your tour will start from Charing Cross Station.

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

20. Shakespeare Walking Tour in London

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. London River Cruise & Westminster Walking Tour 

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

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

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

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

In total, the walking tour covers 20 sights.

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

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

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

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

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

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

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

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

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

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

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

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

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

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

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

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

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

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

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

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

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

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

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities 4+

Gpsmycity.com, inc..

• 4.0 • 1.1K Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

Screenshots

Description.

Thousands of self-guided walking tours and travel articles in 1,500+ cities around the world are included in this handy app. No need to hop on a tour bus or join a tour group; now you can explore all the city attractions on your own, at your own pace, and at a cost that is only a fraction of what you would normally pay for a guided tour. The app is designed to be used offline so No Data Plan or Internet is Needed, and No Roaming either. The app is free to download. Afterwards, you can evaluate the walking tours - see the attractions and use the fully functional offline maps included in each of the city walk guides, all for free. A small payment – fraction of what you would normally pay for a guided group tour or tour bus tickets – is needed for accessing the walk route maps and activating turn-by-turn navigation functions. The highlights and features of the FREE app include: * Thousands of self-guided walking tours that show you what to see in the destination. * Thousands of travel articles make planning a trip really easy. * Offline city maps. * The "FindMe" feature displaying your exact location on the map. After upgrade, you have access to the following advanced features: * Walking tour maps. * Voice guided turn-by-turn travel directions. * Create your own walks to see the attractions you like. * No advertisement. This app supports subscription which allows you to access all the walking tours and articles in this app at one low price. How The Annual Subscription Works: * Option 1. For $12.99 you will get access to the full version functions in all the 600+ city walks guides (London, Rome, Paris, Tokyo, etc.) included in this app for one year. Travel articles are not included in this subscription. * Option 2. For $12.99, you will get access to the full version functions in all the travel articles in 1,300+ cities worldwide (London, Rome, Paris, Tokyo, etc.) included in this app for one year. City walks guides are not included in this subscription. * Option 3. For $18.99, you will get access to all travel content inside the app and covers over 1,500 cities worldwide. * A 3-day Free Trial is provided under each subscription upgrade offer. Your account will not be charged anything as long as you cancel the subscription at least 24 hours before the end of the Free Trial. * Your annual subscription will automatically renew unless auto-renewal is canceled at least 24 hours before the end of the current subscription period. * Payment will be charged to your Apple App Store Account at the confirmation of the subscription purchase or after the Free Trial has completed. * You may turn off the auto-renewal at any time from your Apple App Store Account settings. Terms of Use: https://www.gpsmycity.com/terms.html Privacy Policy: https://www.gpsmycity.com/privacy-policy.html Note: Continued use of GPS running in the background can dramatically decrease battery life. This app gives you the option to turn off the GPS tracking in the background to prolong the battery life. It is also suggested that you bring with you an external battery. Note: This app relies on GPS for its navigation functions. For best experience, it is recommended to use the app on iPhone and iPad cellular+WiFi models. It is not recommended to use the app on iPad WiFi-only models due to lack of built-in GPS support in these models. Tutorial videos for using this app can be found on our website at https://www.gpsmycity.com/mobile-app.html

Version 5.1.2

- Fixed some bugs.

Ratings and Reviews

1.1K Ratings

Cheaper than a guided tour

Okay, I see some negative reviews about the map and the clunky app, but I have to say for the price, and yes, including the new yearly subscription, it’s still very worth it. I have used 6 of the paid tours and a few free ones with GPSmyCity. I started with the free, but when I paid for the upgrades (less than $5 at the time), I was pleased. Because I travel at least once or twice a year, I’m willing to pay the subscription mainly to support the team. I just recently came back from Florence where my wife and I spent over $200 for a private guided walking tour that included a fantastic lunch. No complaints, the guide was great and we learned a lot, but it was only 4 hours long and we were at his mercy. For less than $20 using this app, we would’ve been able to map out the tour we wanted, read in advance, and take our time. Yes, you can use Google and Pocket Earth and other free tools, but come on - for $20 you can get a well organized and fun tour with a pretty decent offline map. Spending hundreds in flight and hotels, I don’t $20 for something that would cost 3 times or more for a true guided tour. Oh, and the support team has been awesome for times when I did have problems with the app. I’ve been using them for years and will continue to do so. Don’t let the few negative ads steer you away - give it a shot...

Adore this app!

I downloaded this app a few days ago, and started using it to plan a multi- city trip to Europe. Wow! I love this app - it makes planning super easy. I’ve been traveling far and wide, both professionally and personally, for years. I’ve planned complex trips, and know how overwhelming it can get. So many places to see in so little time, and so sometimes tough to determine which sights to see, and the best route to take when sights to visit are scattered all over a city. Well, this app makes all of this easy, and fun! Great descriptions and photos of all sights, which ones are “must see sights”, ability to add your own sights (like your hotel). The app determines the best route and how long it will take you. There are tons of wonderful canned walks based on categories like “city overview,” “ museums,” “architecture,” etc. and the ability to create customized walks. If you love to travel, this tool will become an addiction. I tried the free version and then decided to upgrade to the full version because the route creation aspect is fantastic.

Wonderful idea. Solid info. Buggy execution.

Let me stare up top I paid for the pro version. This app is overall a wonderful idea. The tours and walking maps are too notch. The information and depth of guides available is amazing. It has SO much potential and is a great value. That being said, a lot of the design choices are just not intuitive, user friendly, and in some cases are downright buggy. Example? There is no way to turn off audio when starting a route to a location. Each time you need to do if manually. Also, when downloading the map, you get a notice that the map is in your downloads… but you can’t exit out of that notice until you close and reopen the app. There are dozens of minor annoyances like that that would take too long to list. At the end of the day though, I have used this for about 6 cities, and have appreciated the content But I hope they do a redesign to make it less glitchy and more intuitive. This app has potential to become really big if they do.

App Privacy

The developer, GPSmyCity.com, Inc. , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Identifiers

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• City Walks Yearly Subscription $12.99
• Walks and Articles Yearly Subs $18.99
• Articles Yearly Subscription $12.99
• Paris Guide $4.99
• Savannah Guide $4.99
• Palm Springs Map $4.99
• Rome Guide $4.99
• New York Guide $4.99
• Venice Guide $4.99
• Barcelona Guide $4.99
• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

More By This Developer

Washington D.C. Map and Walks

Trip Planner Pro

New York Map and Walks

New Orleans Map and Walks

Las Vegas Map and Walks

Rome Map and Walks

You Might Also Like

VoiceMap: Audio Tours & Guides

Visit A City

Rick Steves Audio Europe™

GuideAlong | GPS Audio Tours

Rome2Rio: Trip Planner

Palace of Versailles

London is a sprawling metropolis of 32 boroughs, over 2,000 churches – more than 50 built by one man alone – 270 Tube stations, 9 palaces, 4 castles and a staggering 9 million people. Exploring these streets will be a riotous jou rney across the past and present.

Urbs' audio tours of London  are the ultimate way to see the sights, including the many hidden gems dotted throughout the city. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or longer, there’s no better way to take it all in than a self-guided walking tour of London .

The Urbs Way

Listen & discover.

Enjoy 4+ hours of audio content written by cultural experts

Explore 90+ fascinating cultural locations

Discover 150+ restaurants, cafes, bars and shops recommended by local writers

Plan your route

Plan your perfect day with our unique route plotting function You can also use one of our curated routes which can be amended according to interests, schedule and budget

Book tickets

Find out which locations require tickets Book attractions and activities in advance to avoid the queues

As the saying goes, when man is tired of London, he is tired of life. For this fair city has something for every taste, every budget and every kind of traveller. Whether you’re hitting up the hottest bar in town, delving into its rich history, or enjoying the vibrant entertainment scene, you can find it all in London. Which is why you need to visit the city at least once. But, where to start?

Navigating London

It’s one of the most famous cities, attracting millions of travellers from around the world every year. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or longer, our self-guided walking tours of London offer a modern way to experience the magic of the city. Walk and learn, and never miss a moment of being in London. Here are some of the attractions you can mix and match and add to your schedule:

Pub culture

It’s the nation’s favourite pastime. So, when in London, it would be rude not to have a few drinks in one of the city’s many pubs. From historic buildings that date back to the 16th century, to swanky rooftop bars and hip reformed prison cell bars – take your pick, from the many watering holes on offer.

A few of our favourite things

​ The United Kingdom might be home to Shakespeare, but London is home to the Globe Theatre and the West End. Not only does the Urbs app provide everything you need to know about the best venues, but you can also book tickets directly – allowing you to jump the queue and make the most of your time in the city.

Popular culture

Discover hidden gems throughout the city; by foot, by tube, by taxi or by bus tour. Our audio tour of London allows you to pick and choose from big ticket show-stoppers like the Harry Potter Universal Tour, to lesser-known treats like secret speakeasys, to pop-up bars and hidden cinemas.

Step back in time

​ London’s dark and grizzly history is best enjoyed by foot. Be it a Jack the Ripper walking tour, an audio tour of East London’s vibrant street art, or a musical journey through Abbey Road - adventure is on every corner, we can help you find it.

Favourite pastimes

It’s the home of Oxford Street and Regent Street – two of the most famous shopping streets in the world. The capital is also home to world-class sports football, tennis and rugby – your biggest quandary will be finding the time to fit them all in.

Did you know that London has an abundance of great free tours and events? Save money and time, and uncover the best of the city with Urbs self-guided walking tours of London.

London landmarks

Ready for the wow factor? There’s no shortage of landmarks in this epic city. Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, St Pauls Cathedral, the Tower of London and Barbican are just a few to add to your London audio schedule.

Roll out the red carpet

Ready for a Royal London tour? Hot-foot it to Buckingham Palace and watch the guards on parade, followed by afternoon tea. It’s what the Queen would want!

Bringing you all the action

Offering the best way to explore London, here’s a few benefits in using our self-guided tours.

Tailor your trip

Do London your way, and create a London audio tour on your terms.

Purchase the hottest tickets in town

Discover, book, and pay for theatre and entertainment tickets, all from the ease of the app.

Immerse yourself

Compile your itinerary with recommendations from a pool of carefully chosen cultural experts.

Diverse attractions

Tap in to our library of audio tours compiled by our team on the ground to enjoy on your travels.

Discover London

No matter how many times you may have visited, you’re sure to learn something new with our self-guided walking tours of London.

Download the app

Planning a trip to London? Then don’t miss the chance to access the city in this audio feast, now available to download on Android and iOS devices.

This Is (Possibly) The Most Efficient Sightseeing Tour Of London

Pressed for time and want to see all the attractions , very quickly? This London sightseeing map is for you!

Have you ever wanted to go for a walk and hit up almost all of London’s sights in one fell swoop? Well, Redditor magulagie has the answer for you. They’ve created the ultimate London sightseeing map for tourists in a hurry. Just over five miles long on the map, it takes in a ton of London’s most iconic features, and if you avoid going inside any of the places you pass, it’ll only take about two hours to fly by them all! Who needs to be filled in on all the historic interiors, anyway?

It’s the perfect way to tick a lot of London tourist map boxes, fill up that Instagram story, or get your bearings for your first experience of London sightseeing . It’s like the Match of the Day of finding your way around London for the first time – and this one will hit like an injury-time winner.

Naturally, we had to give the sightseeing route a try for ourselves. And it definitely gets our seal of approval!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Secret London (@secret.london)

You’ll start off at Trafalgar Square…

There’s no London walking tour map without Trafalgar Square , so we might as well kick things off with this roaring-statue-filled paradise of pigeons…and a slice of London’s history, of course. A mighty first spot, and one that Nelson would very much approve of being tucked into first place. Where else would we begin? Now get ready for a day of walking!

Take a stroll along the Mall…

When we say stroll, we mean a speedy one—we’ve got a time limit to adhere to, people! A route in honour of Queen Victoria has to be added to a London map of attractions, right? Well, not necessarily, but when it looks this grandiose, you’ll want to be making it your next stop on your sightseeing tour. On we march; our love of London building more and more with each stride…

Until you arrive at Buckingham Palace…

Can’t really miss this one, can you? The home of the Royal Family gazes out over the plush fields of Green Park and attracts millions of visitors each year. If you see King Charles , be sure to quiz him on whether he’s ticked off all these boxes on his London sightseeing tour. Will he be a mere poser on London attractions or a go-to knowledge box?

Then head along Birdcage Walk…

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ciaran Thomas (@ciaranthomas97)

After you’ve taken a selfie with the Royal Family, it’s a no-brainer to make Birdcage Walk the next pin on your walking map of London attractions . Famous diary scribe Samuel Pepys mentioned this walk in his writings way back in the 1600s, and the name of the walk dates back to the reign of King James I . Not a bad smattering of history to saunter through on the way to your next destination. Tweet tweet.

Until you get to Westminster Abbey…

Even if you’ve been before, or don’t plan to look inside, making time for the resplendent piece of gothic architecture that is Westminster Abbey on your walking tour of London is a necessity. It’s been the location of 39 coronations since 1066 , and you simply can’t miss this London crown jewel of attractions.

The Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben, are right next door…

Talking of jewels in London’s crown, it’s always nice to check out the big bonging boombox that is the Elizabeth Tower , better known as Big Ben . You can also kill two birds with one stone by adding the Houses Of Parliament to your London sightseeing day which, if nothing else, is good to tick off to say you’ve seen the place where Members of Parliament shout at the Members of Parliament sitting opposite them. And the place Guy Fawkes wanted to destroy…

Then head over Westminster Bridge…

The second path over the river in central London history, after London Bridge, has been here since 1750. Although it’s only been green since 1970 – and it’s the perfect spot for a moment of reflection on your walking tour of London… if you don’t get bumped out of the way by commuters hurrying across Westminster Bridge in the morning. Hey, it happens. Unless you’re the one who does the bumping. Then you’re the one to watch out for, you treacherous little fiend. We see you.

And you’ll get to the South Bank. Along here you’ll see the London Eye.

Though the queue might seem daunting, there’s no denying that the dome built for the millennium is something that just needs to be seen. The London Eye was even named London’s most loved landmark in a study, so at the very least you’ll need to head over there on your walking tour to see whether you agree. Plus, the London Eye’s place in London’s list of attractions was recently cemented for posterity – it’s set to become a permanent fixture in the capital ! But since we’re blazing our way through a quickfire walking tour, there’s no time to jump on board. Those pods go around slooooowwwwllllllyyy.

Now for the Southbank Centre

There’s always something going on at the Southbank Centre . It’s a great place to hang out in the summer to catch some rays or for a cold day’s activity of viewing some art . And you’ll likely see us banging on about it all year round !

And book stalls under Waterloo Bridge.

“I kept always two books in my pocket, one to read, one to write in.” Robert Louis Stevenson was a maverick with the pen, so maybe we should start adopting this practice too. If you’re looking for the former, then this is just the spot to stop on your London sightseeing walking tour. Maybe the man who gave us Treasure Island and Kidnapped also once carried a London sightseeing map in his pocket…

Head past that scrap of sand we call the foreshore and the OXO Tower.

While we can’t get away with calling it a beach , we’ll just play pretend for this London sightseeing tour , okay?! There’s no time for a cocktail on these shores though; there’s a tour to be getting on with! Dawdlers, be gone.

Before too long you’ll arrive at the Tate Modern .

The Tate Modern is London’s most popular art gallery, don’tcha know? Are you going to go in? NO. THERE IS NO TIME. YOU MUST COMPLETE THE REST OF YOUR LONDON SIGHTSEEING MAP.

Carry on along the river a little bit and you’ll see Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

And this is embarrassing but (for the only time on this walk) you’ll have to double back on yourself very slightly. I know, we said it was straightforward and this is the ultimate betrayal. But it’s still not quite as tragic as the tragedies that have walked across this iconic theatre’s floors. Poor Hamlet…

Then it’s over Millennium Bridge:

2000 gave us Kid A by Radiohead, but it also gave us the opening of the incredibly useful Millennium Bridge. You can decide which you prefer for yourself; though you can, of course, enjoy them simultaneously along your London sightseeing map walk through the power of headphones. What a world.

Until you reach St. Paul’s Cathedral !

I hear it’s beautiful inside, but you’re not allowed to take photos anyway so, quite frankly, who’s got the time? Regardless, St Paul’s Cathedral is Christopher Wren’s masterpiece and you’ll definitely want to check it off your London sightseeing tour list.

Then it’s time to walk along Cannon Street…

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thoroughly Modern Milly (@millykr)

This bit’s a little boring, to be honest. (It’s certainly nowhere near as pretty as its namesake in Birmingham .) But there is a stunning little townhouse, now home to The Walbrook Club, hidden away down a side street along the way. Don’t spend too long searching for it, though, as there are places to go and sights to see!

…until you get to The Monument!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glenn (@perspectivebyglenn)

Don’t ask which monument – it’s The Monument and you’ll find it near Monument station. Keep your eyes peeled! Even though it towers overhead – it’s surprisingly easy to miss! The grand monument to the Great Fire Of London in 1666 is a tall order for your London tour, but I’m sure you’ll make it worthwhile.

Now just roll down Lower Thames Street and you’ll soon get to the Tower of London!

You could go in, meet the ravens, chat with a Beefeater, and even check out the Crown Jewels. Or you could say ‘nahhhhhhhhhhh y’alright’ and carry on. There’s plenty more of your sightseeing tour to tick off. Anyway, it’s a classy fortress and it might look easy on the eye, but it was also used to lock people up in the Tudor period. Don’t get on the wrong side of them…

Tower Bridge is, like, right next door. Get a load of that.

Few more to go on your London sightseeing map . Getting tired yet? Good. You’ve nearly earned your end-of-tour pint. Hey! Stop thinking about alcohol and feast your eyes on Tower Bridge . And then get ready to sternly lecture the next person who gets Tower Bridge and London Bridge mixed up.

Just a couple of minutes away you’ll reach the pretty marina at St. Katherine’s Docks:

Frankly, we need a pint by now… But St. Katherine’s Docks is pretty, and pretty much wraps up our London tourist map. I can practically hear the sound or beer filling our waiting glasses.

Until – hurrah! – you finally arrive at a flower-festooned pub.

And what a charming, floral spot to finish it all up! Well played, my tourist friend: the cheeriest of cheers to you. Now it’s definitely time for a pint !

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of London for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy London without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

The 15 best walking tours in London

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

Courtesy: Get Your Guide

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

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

Need more sightseeing inspiration? 💂‍♂️Check out our list of 101 things to do in London 🛏Or stay in one of these trendy London Airbnbs 🍽Have you heard about these 50 best restaurants in London yet ? 

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

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best London walking tours

1.  food walking tour: west to east.

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

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

2.  Kensington Palace Gardens tour with Royal High Tea

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

Best for  pretty backdrops and scones 

3.  Three-hour secret British food tour

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

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

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

4.  Harry Potter walking tour

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

Best for: muggles, whiches, wizards big and small 

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

5.  Westminster and the Churchill War Rooms

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

Best for: the history buffs 

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

6.  Changing of the Guard guided walking tour

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

Best for: a taste of royal pageantry 

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

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

Best for:  a   gritty detour...

8.  Historic pub walking tour

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

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

9.  Private Sherlock Holmes walking tour

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

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

10.  Blood and Tears walk

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

Best for: discovering London's gory underbelly

11.  Greenwich highlights half-day walking tour

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

Best for:  London's maritime history

12.  Jack the Ripper tour with fish and chips

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

Best for: suspensful storytelling

13.  Bowl of Chalk walking tours

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

Best for: First-timers

14.  Unseen Tours

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

Best for: London iconography with an authentic twist

15.  East End street art walking tour

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

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

Leisure Pass London Widget

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Time Out Offers FAQ
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Offers
• Time Out Worldwide

Protect Your Trip »

21 best london tours of 2024.

From exploring Harry Potter movie sets to cruising on the River Thames, these are the best tours of London.

The Best London Tours

Courtesy of Secret Food Tours

If you're looking for the best things to do in London, but are unsure where to begin, consider a guided tour of the city. Many sightseeing excursions cover the highlights (think Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge ), while other London tours focus on Harry Potter, Jack the Ripper and day trips to Stonehenge. Read on to discover a variety of well-rated tours in London.

Editor’s Pick: Premium Tours – Full Day London Tour

Price: Adults from 143 pounds (about $183); kids from 133 pounds (about $170) Duration: 9 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send  Laura French , an award-winning British travel writer currently based in London, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. Premium Tours – Full Day London Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

This full-day bus tour packs in an impressive number of London’s must-see sights, with free time to explore at each stop. We boarded at Victoria Coach Station before ambling through Westminster, getting up-close views of honey-hued Parliament Square – framed by the Houses of Parliament , Big Ben and Westminster Abbey – from the bus. From there it was on to St. Paul’s Cathedral , where we were given a guided tour of this chandelier-bedecked marvel as our English guide shared intriguing facts about its history. Next up was Buckingham Palace, where our guide timed it so we’d catch the changing of the guard. Our next stop was the Tower of London , where we had a brief lunch break and guided orientation before having a couple of hours to roam freely. Most of the tour group made an immediate beeline for the crown jewels, eyes goggling at the impressive collection of diamond encrusted crowns and gold chalices. We rounded off the day with a cruise along the Thames. The tour ended at the London Eye , where several in the group had opted for an add-on whirl on the wheel, and a few left for cream tea at Harrod’s (two activities included in the upgraded ticket option).

Tours run daily from 7:45 a.m. to around 4:30 p.m. It’s worth noting the changing of the guard only takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, so if you’re hoping to catch it, book the tour for one of those days (and while guides will do their best to accommodate seeing the changing of the guard, there’s never a guarantee).

You’ll be on your feet a fair amount, so it's best to wear comfy shoes . You'll also want to pack light – in the morning, you can leave things on the bus, but when you get off at the Tower of London, you’ll need to take everything with you, as the rest of the tour is on foot and by boat. Also, you'll have to queue a bit for the crown jewels, but it’s worth the wait!

Laura French

Why we love it:

• Beyond the official stops, our guide pointed out plenty of other intriguing spots along the way – from Downing Street, official home of the prime minister, to Fleet Street, the former epicenter of British journalism, and the West End , the biggest theater district in the world. Despite having grown up in and around the city, I gleaned plenty of new historical facts myself, and spotted things I’d never noticed before (including the building that served as Gringotts Wizarding Bank in the "Harry Potter" movies).
• The tour ticket covers the cost of entry for St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and the river cruise.
• The guide also gave us plenty of other tips – such as when to come to see the dress rehearsals for the Trooping the Color (the king’s official birthday) – and pointed out a good fish and chip shop by the Tower of London for a classic British lunch.

– Laura French

Check prices & availability on:

Secret Food Tours – London Bridge

Price: Adults from 79 pounds (about $100); kids from 69 pounds (about $88) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

British food often gets a bad reputation, but this tour will change your mind. You'll visit seven different eateries, sampling everything from sausage rolls to sticky toffee pudding.

The tour begins at bustling Borough Market, where you'll snack on a bacon and egg bap (the U.K. version of a breakfast sandwich) as your guide tells you about the history of the market, as well as an overview of the city's history and culture. Other stops include a historic pub for a cheese tasting paired with English cider. And – as is standard on a Secret Food Tour – there will be a secret dish offered somewhere along the way. As you eat your way through London, you'll also enjoy great views of the city skyline, London Bridge and Tower Bridge. Past participants appreciate the quantity and quality of food provided, as well as the entertaining guides.

Tours depart several times a day between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Secret Food Tours also offers tours of the Shoreditch district, among other areas.

BrakeAway Bike Tours – The Secret London Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 32 pounds (about $41); kids from 26 pounds (about $33) Duration: 3.5 hours

This London bike tour leads riders past famous sights, such as the Tower of London and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, but also explores lesser-known features of the city, including its street art and secret passageways. It also includes a 20-minute stop at Brick Lane. Reviewers extol the fun guides and say the tour is ideal if you want a break from the tourist crowds. Plus, they say it's a great value for the money.

Tours are offered daily from late March through October at 3 p.m. Tour prices include bikes, helmets and rain ponchos. Children 9 and younger are not permitted on the tour, and groups are capped at 12 participants. For a more traditional tour of London, consider the company's Grand London Bike Tour.

Liquid History Tours – Drink London Tour

Price: From 25 pounds (about $32) Duration: 3 to 4 hours

If the idea of walking – and drinking – in the footsteps of literary luminaries like Shakespeare and Dickens appeals, this is the tour for you. On the Drink London Tour, you'll walk along the "Street of Shame" (Fleet Street) for approximately 2 miles and stop in at least four historic pubs, some centuries old. You'll stroll by St. Paul's Cathedral, peek into secluded courtyards and listen to tales about Sweeney Todd. Travelers love the stories the guides share just as much as they enjoy drinking the local brews.

Note that the cost of drinks is not included, and reservations are required for this tour. Participants must be at least 18 years old. If you're traveling with a group, consider one of Liquid History Tours' private excursions.

The Ghost Bus Tours

Price: Adults from 25 pounds (about $32); kids from 17 pounds (about $22) Duration: 75 minutes

Ride a vintage double-decker bus for a spooky peek into London's lesser-known history with Ghost Bus Tours. Mixing horror with a fair bit of comedy – an aspect reviewers love – the actors-turned-guides describe the haunted history of top attractions, such as the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, among other famous landmarks. Both visitors and locals value the obscure stories guides share.

Tours last approximately 75 minutes and run several times each evening, though departure times vary by day.

London Bicycle Tour Company – The Classic Tour

Price: Adults from 33.95 pounds (about $43); kids from 24.95 pounds (about $32) Duration: 3 hours

Travelers consistently give the London Bicycle Tour Company high marks for its fun guides who are vigilant about ensuring riders' safety. On the Classic Tour – which travels about 8 miles – you'll breeze past Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Banksy Tunnel (where you'll likely witness artists at work) and other local landmarks. Your tour guide will offer commentary and give you plenty of time to stop and take photos. Children need to be at least 10 years old and stable riders to participate.

Tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. To admire the city lights at night, consider the company's daily sunset ride.

Courtesy of Alternative London

Alternative London – Street Art Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds ($25); kids from 14 pounds (about $18) Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Promising to show you things London guidebooks don't cover, Alternative London's walking tour takes you to East London, where guides showcase the area's street art and discuss its culture and history. The company employs street artists and other creative types as guides so you get an insider's look into the community, something travelers say makes the tour unique. No two tours are alike because every guide has their favorite route and spots to highlight. Past tourgoers say the tour is fun and full of interesting insights.

Tours run at 11 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and Tuesdays, as well as 2 p.m. on Fridays. Outings are limited to 20 people. Looking to explore more of London's hidden spots? Alternative London offers a bike tour that emphasizes street art.

The English Bus – Stonehenge, Bath & A Secret Place Tour

Price: From 134 pounds (about $170) Duration: 12 hours

After you've had your fill of London's hustle, take a day trip to the countryside for a tour of Stonehenge . On this small tour of 16 people or fewer, you'll depart London in a Mercedes minibus and head to both Stonehenge and Bath. At Stonehenge, you'll have time to walk around the ancient stones and marvel at their enormity. In Bath, you'll have time to stop for lunch and either explore on your own or take a guided tour. The twist to this tour is that you'll also visit a secret spot on the way back to London, which is only revealed when you arrive.

The English Bus's vehicle, with panoramic windows and a glass roof, is small enough to go down back roads and through the countryside – a feature travelers love. Reviewers are also complimentary of the guides, who they describe as friendly, educational and well-versed in British history.

Tours depart daily at 8:45 a.m. and return to central London around 8:30 p.m. Tickets do not include food, drinks or admission to Stonehenge. The English Bus also operates daylong trips to the Cotswolds, Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon, among other destinations.

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

Price: Adults from 53.50 pounds ($68); kids from 43 pounds ($55) Duration: 3.5 to 7 hours

If you're a fan of Harry Potter, you already know that this London tour is a must – and previous tourgoers confirm it lives up to the hype. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter offers a behind-the-scenes look at sets, props and costumes used in the film franchise. Walk through the Great Hall – which is set for dinner – and explore Diagon Alley and Platform 9 3/4. Other exhibits include Creature Effects, where you can see how characters like Buckbeak the Hippogriff and Aragog were brought to life. You can even enjoy a butterbeer in the Backlot Café. Special exhibits are also displayed throughout the year and around the holidays.

Plan to spend at least half a day to fully experience the collection and discover its intricate details. Themed packages and add-on experiences are also available. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

City Experiences – Evening Cruise on the River Thames

Price: From 30 pounds (about $38) Duration: 2 hours

City Experiences offers evening cruises on the River Thames, a lovely way to end your day in London. Upon boarding, a server greets you with a complimentary glass of prosecco, and hors d'oeuvres are served throughout the two-hour cruise. You'll enjoy live background music as you take in the sights from your seat on the open-air upstairs deck or inside the saloon with picture windows. Previous travelers say they enjoyed the cruise, noting it is relaxing and affords spectacular views for photos.

In the warm weather months, cruises run daily at 6:30 p.m.; beginning in October, cruises are available Thursday through Sunday only. Patrons must be age 13 or older to join the tour. Other London river cruises offered by City Experiences include a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing cruise.

Courtesy of Jack the Ripper Tour

The Jack the Ripper Tour With Ripper-Vision

Price: Adults from 18 pounds (about $23); kids from 10 pounds (about $13) Duration: 2 hours

This offbeat Jack the Ripper tour has a unique spin: the company uses what it calls "Ripper-Vision" to tell the story of the notorious murderer. A hand-held projector, "Ripper-Vision" displays pictures on walls and sides of buildings throughout the tour, allowing the guides to show (and tell) all about the infamous serial killer. You'll visit the actual murder sites where Jack the Ripper commited his crimes, and will get a glimpse of what London was like in the late 1800s. Tourgoers say guides are informative, entertaining and skilled at retelling the stories of Jack the Ripper's escapades.

Tours are offered nightly at 7:30 p.m., with an additional 5 p.m. tour on select days. The company also offers Jack the Ripper pub tours.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Eating Europe – East End Food Tour

Price: Adults from 85 pounds (about $108); kids from 70 pounds (about $89) Duration: 3.5 hours

Eating Europe's East End food tour is a 3.5-hour exploration of one of London's most diverse and interesting neighborhoods. Participants will enjoy food at six restaurants, pubs, markets, bakeries and shops. Along with classic (and award-winning) fish and chips, you'll also sample some of the city's best curry, bagels and pastries. Reviewers rave about the delicious and varied offerings on this tour and encourage future participants to pace themselves so they can enjoy every bite.

Tours run throughout the day, every day, beginning at 11 a.m. There is a maximum of 12 people per tour. Eating Europe also offers tours of Soho and Borough Market.

Fat Tire Tours – Royal London Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 35 pounds (about $44); kids from 29 pounds (about $37) Duration: 4 hours

Fascinated with the monarchy? On this approximately four-hour cycling excursion from Fat Tire Tours, expert guides lead you to spots like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Kensington Palace, all while sharing intrigue and stories about British royalty. Midway through the tour, there is a half-hour lunch break near Trafalgar Square (at your own expense). Bikers say the tour provides a great way to see iconic sights and describe guides as informative and friendly.

Rides are offered daily at 10:30 a.m.; an additional 3:30 p.m. tour may also be available depending on the day and month. Schedules vary during the winter. Travelers should note reservations are required for this tour, and helmets are provided. Fat Tire Tours also offers cycling tours along the Thames, bike rentals and private tours.

Evan Evans Tours – Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

Price: Adults from 95 pounds (about $121); kids from 85 pounds (about $108) Duration: 11 hours

The first stop on this day trip from London is Windsor Castle – the largest occupied castle in the world. Here, you'll have time to stroll the immaculate grounds and pay a visit to St George's Chapel, the location of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 2018 nuptials. From there, you'll head to the city of Bath, England – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's home to the world-famous Roman Baths. The last stop of the day is Stonehenge. In all, the tour lasts about 11 hours. Reviewers rave about the entertaining, passionate guides, but some do bemoan the pace of the tour, saying certain parts felt rushed. However, all agree this is a great way to cross some must-see landmarks off your bucket list.

Tours depart Victoria Coach Station daily at 8 a.m. Evan Evans Tours also operates a similar tour that stops in Oxford instead of Bath.

Courtesy of Brigit's Bakery's Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Brigit's Bakery London – Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour

Price: Adults from 45 pounds (about $57); kids from 35 pounds (about $44) Duration: 1.5 hours

Offering a unique twist on a bus tour and afternoon tea, Brigit's Bakery London's Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour combines the two for a tasty outing. During the tour, you'll ride on a vintage double-decker Routemaster bus through central London, passing by Big Ben, Hyde Park, Downing Street and more. As you sightsee, servers pour tea and offer sandwiches, cakes and pastries. In addition to the tour's novelty, visitors find the prerecorded commentary entertaining and informative, and most say they enjoyed the food.

Tours, which last about 90 minutes, run several times daily and depart from either Northumberland Avenue or Victoria Coach Station. The tour accommodates several dietary restrictions, though these options may have an additional fee. Children ages 4 and younger are not permitted. Prefer gin to tea? The company also offers a Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, among other options.

Tally Ho! – Landmarks and Gems Royal London Bike Tour

Price: From 55 pounds (about $70) Duration: 3.5 hours

On the London Landmarks & Gems cycling tour, Tally Ho! leads visitors to the city's major sights, while expert guides offer their insights and informative commentary – a point of praise for many reviewers. Other highlights include seeing the royal guards (and possibly the changing of the guard ceremony), spray painting in the Leake Street tunnel and grabbing a pint at a pub. The tour covers about 5 miles and travels at a leisurely pace, with time for photo stops.

Tours ride twice daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., though times may vary seasonally. There may only be an afternoon ride during the fall and winter months, and an additional tour at 9:30 a.m. runs during the summer months. There is a maximum of 12 people per tour. A helmet or tweed flat cap and spray paint are provided to bikers. Tally Ho! offers a variety of cycling and walking tours, including a gin "safari."

Thames Rockets – Ultimate London Adventure

Price: From 49.95 pounds ($63) Duration: 50 minutes

The 50-minute Ultimate London Adventure tour is a sightseeing cruise like no other. As your actor-turned-guide narrates your trip, you'll take in iconic sights along the Thames, such as the Tate Modern, the Gherkin and the Houses of Parliament. Once you get under the Tower Bridge, the speedboat captain ramps up to speeds of 30 knots (35 mph) and takes you on a thrilling ride as the music blasts and passengers shriek. Tourgoers describe it as an exhilarating, fantastic experience.

Tours depart several times daily. Keep in mind: From November through January tours are only offered Thursday through Sunday. Thames Rockets also offers adults-only evening rides, as well as longer 80-minute cruises, among other options.

Courtesy of Tour for Muggles

Tour for Muggles

Price: Adults from 17 pounds (about $22); kids from 15 pounds (about $19) Duration: 2 hours

One of the best Harry Potter tours in London , this option garners rave reviews from witches, wizards, Muggles and Squibs who appreciate both the knowledgeable tour guides and seeing their favorite "Harry Potter" locations in real life. Tour for Muggles takes visitors through London for approximately two hours to see locations where the movies were shot, as well as places that inspired author J.K. Rowling.

Tours are limited to 20 people and run several times a day Tuesday through Sunday.

Gin Journey London

Price: From 75 pounds (about $95) Duration: 4.5 hours

If you enjoy imbibing in gin, you'll love taking a tour with Gin Journey, where your expert "gin guardian" takes you to five different venues in London in a chauffeur-driven minibus. During the 4.5-hour tour, you'll sample five different gins, enjoy five gin cocktails, visit a distillery and learn all about this spirit and why it's having a modern renaissance. Reviewers praise the guides, the drinks and the tour's great organization.

Gin Journeys can be booked in different neighborhoods, including Hackney and Soho. Tours, which are capped at 20 people, are offered every Saturday at 1 or 2 p.m., depending on which neighborhood you choose to book. Ticket discounts may be available for early bookings.

Strawberry Tours – Free Soho Tour London

Price: Free Duration: 2 hours

Since the mid-19th century, Soho has been a haven for musicians, writers and bohemians. Learn about the neighborhood's famous residents and much more on this free two-hour London walking tour. Your guide will talk about famous bands like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones and their connection to the area. You'll also learn about the history of Soho's sex industry, a topic not always discussed on tours. Guides will take you by the Old Red Light District, Carnaby Street, the West End Theatre District and more. Tourgoers rave about the expert guides and are awestruck by the history of the area.

As its name suggests, the tour is free, but at the end of tour, you can pay your guide what you wish. This tour runs Wednesday through Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Tickets must be reserved in advance. Strawberry Tours offers other free excursions around London, such as street art-themed tours and several London landmarks tours.

Check availability on:

Free Tours by Foot – World War Two Tour of London

On this two-hour walking tour of London, you'll learn about London during the Blitz, hear tales of how the city was rebuilt after the war and walk past landmarks that survived the bombings, such as St. Paul's Cathedral. Tour-takers value the engaging guides and the amount of history shared on the tour. They also say guides tailor the tour to participants' interests.

Visitors can name their own price, paying what they think the tour was worth at the excursion's conclusion. Tours operate Thursday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Reservations are required to guarantee a spot. Free Tours by Foot offers a variety of walking and food tours, including tours of Westminster and London street art, among many others.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in London
• The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace
• The Best Stonehenge Tours from London
• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Tours , Vacations , Travel , London , Europe Vacations , United Kingdom Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Carry-on luggage sizes by airline.

Amanda Norcross June 18, 2024

What to Bring to a Water Park

Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Timothy J. Forster and Mariya Greeley June 14, 2024

The Best Scotland Tours

Marisa Méndez June 13, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross June 13, 2024

How to Renew a Passport Online

The Best Small Group Tours of Italy

John Rodwan and Ann Henson June 12, 2024

Crystal Symphony Review

Jill Schildhouse June 12, 2024

Fall in New England

Amanda Norcross June 11, 2024

Fun Things to Do in New Mexico

Alissa Grisler and Ashley M. Biggers June 11, 2024

How to get around London: from tubes and trains to bikes and buses

Mar 17, 2024 • 10 min read

With a bus, Tube, boat or bike? We'll help you discover the best ways to get around in London © Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock

London is a sprawling city of over nine million people. With its combination of Roman walls, Victorian development, post-WWII rebuilding and pockets of ongoing regeneration, it's a jumble of roads, Tube and train lines, and definitely not the most intuitive city to navigate.

However, with apps, good mapping, signage and a bit of patience, it's possible to visit almost all of the city via public transport. From train companies to Transport for London, here's everything you need to know about each mode of transport and the all-important ticketing system.

The Tube (the London Underground) is the quickest and easiest

The London Underground, or "the Tube," is the city's subway running across 11 different color-coded lines, with only about 45% of the Underground network actually operating underground. Despite the never-ending upgrades and engineering works requiring weekend closures and escalators out of action, the Tube is overall the quickest and easiest way of getting around the city. It is also usually the warmest place to wait for your transport in winter, except on those rare above-ground Tube stations. 

Be aware though: some stations, most famously Leicester Square and Covent Garden, are much closer in reality than they appear on the Tube map, and going underground to travel between them will take much longer than simply walking between them.

Tip for using the Tube for sight-seeing: The Piccadilly Line stops at some of London’s key sights and neighborhoods – Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden, Hyde Park Corner and Knightsbridge – and it runs from Heathrow's airport terminals. It's a good Tube line to base yourself near. 

Catch the Night Tube on Friday and Saturday nights

The Tube runs roughly 5am to 1am, although when your last train departs does vary by line and the day of the week. 

Several lines (the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines) run all night on Friday and Saturday to get revelers home (on what is called the "Night Tube"), with trains every ten minutes or so (and off-peak fares). 

London's red buses (and the best sight-seeing bus route)

London's ubiquitous red double-decker buses afford great views of the city, but the going can be slow thanks to traffic jams and dozens of commuters getting on and off at every stop.

There are excellent bus maps at every stop detailing all routes and destinations served from that particular area (generally a few bus stops within a two- to three-minute walk, shown on a local map).

Bus services normally operate from 5am to 11:30pm. Many bus stops have LED displays listing bus arrival times, although downloading an app such as Citymapper to your smartphone is the most effective way to keep track of when your next bus is due. 

Top tip for taking the bus: Bus Route 15 is no longer served by heritage Routemaster buses but is still a useful route for tourists, connecting the Tower of London, St Paul's, the Strand and Trafalgar Square.

The Elizabeth Line

London’s shiny new "purple" line, connecting towns as far west as Reading and as far east as Shenfield to central London via hubs like Paddington, Liverpool Street Station and Tottenham Court Road,  is now open for business .

The line also offers a quicker (although more expensive!) route between Heathrow airport and central London.

Getting around London by foot

London is too large to realistically cover on foot, but once you're in an area of interest, you can't beat walking for proper neighborhood exploration. A good map or GPS is recommended, as London's winding streets can quickly disorientate. Bridges cross the Thames at regular intervals, and there are two pedestrian tunnels beneath the river: one at Greenwich and one at Woolwich. 

If you're exploring London in winter, wrap up with a warm hat, gloves and scarf. In central London, an umbrella is a liability on narrow footpaths; you're better off wearing a waterproof coat with a hood. Ice and snow are not uncommon in the depths of winter, so watch for slippery streets in the mornings.

Another key hazard for walkers in London can be cyclists, or rather pedestrians are a worry for them. Looking out for cars when you cross the road goes without saying, but in London, many streets allow cyclists to ride against a one-way driving system on "contra-flow" lanes. This means you need to look both ways before crossing roads, especially as you won't hear a bike coming! 

Better on a boat on the Thames

Several companies operate along the River Thames; only Uber Boat by Thames Clippers really offers commuter services, however. It’s fast and pleasant, and you’re almost always guaranteed a seat and a view. Thames Clippers boats run regular services between Embankment, Waterloo (London Eye), Blackfriars, Bankside (Shakespeare's Globe), London Bridge, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Greenwich, North Greenwich and Woolwich piers. Tickets can be bought at the piers, or pay-as-you-go with your Oyster or Contactless card (see   below for more information on paying fares).

Cycling is a surprisingly quick way to cross London

Cycling is generally a great way to get around the city , although city traffic can be intimidating for less-confident cyclists – it is important to keep your wits about you. The city has tried hard to improve the cycling infrastructure, by opening new "cycle superhighways" for commuters and "quietways" which are back street cycle lanes for leisure cyclists. The public bike-hire scheme Santander Cycles is particularly useful for visitors with bike-hire docks throughout the city. It costs £2 for unlimited journeys up to 30 minutes and £2 for each additional 30 minutes. Download the app to find the closest bikes and where there are spots available to drop off your bike near your destination. Cycling is also an excellent option for exploring parks and along the Thames.

London's black cabs and other taxi options

Licensed black cab drivers have "The Knowledge", acquired over three-to-five years of rigorous training and a series of exams. They are supposed to know 25,000 streets within a six-mile radius of Charing Cross/Trafalgar Square and the 100 most-visited spots of the moment, including clubs and restaurants.

Cabs are available for hire when the yellow sign above the windshield is lit; just stick your arm out to signal one. Fares are metered, with the initial charge of £3.80 rising by increments of 20p over distance traveled or time taken, which varies depending on the tariff being used. You can pay for your journey with a credit or debit card or cash.

Minicabs (private hire cars) are cheaper alternatives to getting a black cab, but they must be booked in advance through a cab office or an app and cannot be hailed on the street. Fares are set in advance rather than metered.

Ride-share apps are also in operation in London, although their introduction and impact on the city, from undercutting traditional black cabs to accusations of increased car congestion, is still hotly debated by locals. 

Top tip for taking a black cab: Despite the name, not all of London's black cabs are black! They are broadly all shaped the same, though, and will have a yellow sign above the windshield that says "Taxi."

Driving a car in London

As a visitor, it’s very unlikely you’ll need to drive in London. Much has been done to encourage Londoners to get out of their cars and onto public transport (or on their bikes), and the same disincentives should keep you firmly off the road: the additional Congestion Charge (CC) and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees, extortionate parking costs, the high price of fuel, fiendishly-efficient traffic wardens, and ubiquitous CCTV cameras recording cars parked (even momentarily) on double yellow lines or not giving way when they should... it's probably not worth it. 

Riding above the Thames on a cable car

The Emirates Air Line is a cable car linking the Royal Docks in East London with North Greenwich some 90m above the Thames. The journey is brief and rather pricey, but the views are stunning. The Air Line is step-free, and the cable cars can accommodate most motorized wheelchairs.

The DLR (Docklands Light Rail)

The DLR, or Docklands Light Railway, is a driverless train network operating in the eastern part of the city. It's likely you'll take a ride on it if you're heading to the Emirates Air Line cable car or arriving/departing via London City Airport. It's a winner for travelers with children, who like to pretend they're driving the train from the front carriage. 

London Overground and the suburban train network

The Overground train network is part of Transport for London and operates mainly beyond the center of London (although some lines do pass through Zone 1 so pay attention if you're trying to avoid Zone 1 fares). In February 2024 the sprawling Overground network was rebranded into six separate lines, named to celebrate the capital’s modern history and diversity. Not all Londoners were impressed by the names.

There are various private companies operating trains in London that run out to the suburbs. The train network is particularly good for any day trips out of London , but pay attention to which operator you've booked train tickets with as more than one company will depart from the same station. 

Accessible transportation in London

London is a frustrating mix of inconsistent user-friendliness for travelers with access needs . All tram stops, the Emirates Air Line (cable car) and DLR stations have step-free access, as do all Thames Clippers and most piers (the exceptions are Cadogan Pier, Wandsworth Riverside Quarter Pier and London Bridge City Pier). However, only around a quarter of Tube stations and half of Overground stations have step-free access. This means that if you need to go through an interchange on the Tube network, you may find yourself facing an unexpected flight of stairs. There is often a gap between the train and the platform to contend with, as well. Careful planning and notification of a staff member are recommended before you board a train.

Buses are a much better bet: all can be lowered to street level when they stop, and wheelchair users travel free. Wheelchair users enter through the middle doors and have priority use of the wheelchair space over stroller users. All black cabs are meant to be wheelchair-accessible, but power wheelchair users should note that the space is tight, and headroom can be insufficient.

Guide dogs are universally welcome on public transport. Pavements are generally in good repair, pedestrian crossings relatively frequent and well-placed, and curb cuts sufficient not to leave you stranded. The further you get from the center of London, the more likely it is that you'll have the occasional issue with a missing curb cut.

Transport passes, tickets and fares

Transport for London operates the integrated transport network in the city and is the best source for up-to-date travel information, including timetables and fares. Children under five travel free with a fare-paying adult. Use the larger automatic gates to pass through with children, strollers, wheelchairs or luggage.

You can buy tickets for single journeys at ticket offices and self-service machines at most stations, but it's cheaper and much more convenient to either use Contactless, an Oyster card, or a mobile payment with a smartphone (unless you're paying overseas transaction fees). 

Contactless: This is any credit or debit card that allows for contactless payment. You hold it near the yellow card readers at ticket barriers for the Underground and rail systems to mark the start (and end) of your journey. This is referred to as "touch in, touch out." The cost of the journey will automatically be deducted from your account.

Oyster cards:  These are pre-paid reusable cards that can be topped up with funds either at a ticket machine or online. They are sold at most Tube/train stations and many newsagents (£5 charge) and follow the same "touch in, touch out" system.

Bus journeys: Buses are all cash-free, meaning you must either have a ticket in advance or pay with Contactless or an Oyster card when you board. You only need to "touch in" at the start of your journey. You will pay a flat fee no matter how long you are on board.

Travel zones for Tube and rail

The city's Tube and rail systems are divided into zones, radiating outwards from Zone 1 in the very center to Zone 9 as the outer section in Greater London to the north (it goes as far as Zone 6 to the south). Fares are capped, so providing you use the same card/device throughout your day and travel within the zones system, you'll pay a reduced Travelcard rate.

If you're taking a train beyond the London zones, perhaps for a day trip to the coast or farther afield, you will need to buy a separate train ticket.

This article was first published Mar 30, 2021 and updated Mar 17, 2024.

Explore related stories

Sustainable Travel

Sep 20, 2021 • 5 min read

If you have a long way to go, don’t just jump on a plane. Night trains are a more fun, eco-friendly way to travel.

Jun 15, 2024 • 17 min read

Jun 12, 2024 • 12 min read

Jun 12, 2024 • 8 min read

May 14, 2024 • 7 min read

May 13, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 21, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 12, 2024 • 11 min read

Mar 11, 2024 • 5 min read