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The Red Official Route presents the key sights and top attractions of London including the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, The Shard, Tower Bridge and Leicester Square. Crossing the river four times you are guaranteed some spectacular views of London’s stunning scenery along the Thames on this London tourist route.

THE 10 BEST Hop-On Hop-Off Tours in London, England

Hop-on hop-off tours in london.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

2. City Sightseeing London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

3. Vintage London Bus Tour Including Cruise with London Eye option

4. Golden Tours London Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Sightseeing Bus Tour

5. Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing River Cruise on the Thames

6. Big Bus London Open-Top Evening Tour

7. The Big Day out - London Eye Ticket, London Hop-on Hop-Off Tour & River Cruise

8. London: Harry Potter Walking Tour + Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

9. IFS Cloud Cable Car and Uber Boat by Thames Clippers Hop On Hop Off Pass

10. London Tour Hop-on Hop-off Bus optional Thames River cruise

11. London Tootbus Hop on Hop off Bus Tour and Thames River Cruise

12. Tower of London with London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

13. London Tootbus Discovery Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

14. Ride of Routemaster and See London

15. London Discovery by Day and by Night Hop-On Hop-off Tours

16. London Eye Fast-Track Ticket with Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

17. London Christmas Day 1 Day Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

18. London by Night Tootbus Sightseeing Bus Tour

19. 7 Day Winter Tour of England and Scotland starting from London

20. London for 5 Days with Stay in English Families Home

21. 7 Day Tour Exploring England and Scotland starting from London

22. Full Day London Pick & Mix Customized Tour

What travellers are saying.

THE 10 BEST London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Hop-on hop-off tours in london.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

2. City Sightseeing London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

3. Vintage London Bus Tour Including Cruise with London Eye option

4. Golden Tours London Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Sightseeing Bus Tour

5. Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing River Cruise on the Thames

6. Big Bus London Open-Top Evening Tour

7. The Big Day out - London Eye Ticket, London Hop-on Hop-Off Tour & River Cruise

8. London: Harry Potter Walking Tour + Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

9. IFS Cloud Cable Car and Uber Boat by Thames Clippers Hop On Hop Off Pass

10. London Tour Hop-on Hop-off Bus optional Thames River cruise

11. London Tootbus Hop on Hop off Bus Tour and Thames River Cruise

12. Tower of London with London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

13. London Tootbus Discovery Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

14. Ride of Routemaster and See London

15. London Discovery by Day and by Night Hop-On Hop-off Tours

16. London Eye Fast-Track Ticket with Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

17. London Christmas Day 1 Day Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

18. London by Night Tootbus Sightseeing Bus Tour

19. 7 Day Winter Tour of England and Scotland starting from London

20. London for 5 Days with Stay in English Families Home

21. 7 Day Tour Exploring England and Scotland starting from London

22. Full Day London Pick & Mix Customized Tour

What travelers are saying.

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• Adult Number of Adults 16 - +
• Child Number of Children 5-15 - +

Free cancellation 24 hours prior to the tour date

City Tour London: Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus

Activity schedule, key highlights.

• Inclusions & Exclusions

1 day, 24 or 48 hours

Buses runs from 8:30am till 6pm; every 10-30 minutes (depending on routes) Green shuttle service : First and last bus from Stop 1: 09:17am – 4:17pm / Stop 22: 08:55am - 3:55pm; every 20-30 minutes

You can board the bus at any of the route's stops. The favored stops are Belvedere Road (Stop 1), Tower Hill (for Cruise), Hyde Park, Westminster Bridge and Buckingham Gate.

Look for Red buses with name 'Julia Travel'

You can hop off any of the stops

• Save on tubes and taxis! Travel hassle-free on the London City Tour bus
• Hop on and off at any of the London Tour stops by showing your voucher when getting on board!
• Easily cover top attractions like Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square and more on the bus tour
• Enjoy river cruise on the mighty Thames River along with your tickets for FREE!
• Enjoy informative audio commentary onboard in multiple languages
• A special Green shuttle service to drop off customers at stops on the main route!
• Smartphone vouchers are accepted!

Explore London on a flexible, convenient, and budget-friendly Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace, hopping on and off at any of the well-placed stops, and enjoying informative audio commentary on the buses about the history and attractions of the city. What's more? Enjoy one way cruise (depending on the ticket selected) and discover the top landmarks and tourist attractions of the city as per your preferences.

• Tower of London
• St Paul’s Cathedral
• British Library
• Buckingham Palace
• Piccadilly Square
• 1 day, 24 or 48-hour London hop-on, hop-off bus ticket (as per option chosen)
• Free Wi-Fi onboard
• Audio Guide in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Arabic & Polish
• One-way Thames River Cruise (with 24 and 48-hour ticket only)
• Admission to attractions, unless specified

Useful downloads

• Cruise Timetable

Please note

Voucher information : You can show your voucher on your smartphone (But if you’d rather print a copy – that’s fine too!)

Wheelchair accessibility: Yes

London is a functioning city and weather, traffic and events may occasionally cause disruption.

Timings and stops are subject to change. The updated map will be available on the bus.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

The Green Shuttle Service will pick up customers along the route so they can connect with the red route (main route) at Stop 1 or Stop 2. (Check the Useful Downloads section for the map)

Please note that the cruise is operated by City Cruises LTD and is strictly subject to availability.

You must redeem your vouchers on the date booked. Amendments in bookings are not possible.

Customer Reviews

Anita burton.

Well worth doing

Michele Raad

This was painful. It’s a terrible way to see London. The traffic is ridiculously slow. We gave up half way through.

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London City Tours

Big Bus: 24/48-Hour London Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with Thames River Cruise

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Enjoy a hassle-free experience in London with this unlimited hop-on hop-off bus pass with the option of choosing between a Discover, Essential, and Explore HOHO pass.
• With 3 different routes available on all passes and over 35 stops located near distinct stops, hop on or off at your leisure.
• The Explore and Essential Passes offer walking tours like a 90-minute Royal Walk or Little Legs Kid’s walking tour, a 2-hour evening tour and a one-way river cruise.
• Pick up interesting facts about some of the attractions through the onboard commentary, available in 12 languages.
• Some of the popular stops on your route include the London Eye, Kensington Palace, Tower Bridge, and Madame Tussauds.

Discover Pass: 24-Hours

• 24-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off pass
• Audio guide in 12 languages
• Hop-on hop-off map of London
• 1-way river cruise

Essential Pass: 48-Hours

• 48-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off pass
• 4 guided walking tours of Royal Walk, Hidden Gems of the City of London, Jack the Ripper & Hidden Gems of Westminster

Explore Pass: 48-Hours

• London evening tour
• Hotel pick-up/drop-off
• Attraction entrances
• First bus: 8am from stop #1 (Green Park Underground)
• Last bus: 6pm from stop #1 (Green Park Underground)
• Frequency: every 10 to 20 mins
• Popular stops: Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Tower Bridge & Big Ben
• Last bus: 6pm from stop #4 (Marble Arch)
• Frequency: every 20 mins
• Popular stops: Kensington Palace, Harrods, Notting Hill & Paddington Station Complete

Green Route

• First bus: 8:45am from stop #13 (Covent Garden)
• Last bus: 7pm from stop #37 (Woburn)
• Popular stops: Kings Cross Station, St. Pancras Station, British Museum & Temple Underground Station.

Please click here for a detailed route map and boarding points.

• Departure points: Green Park Underground (stop #1) & Trafalgar Square (stop #8)
• Timings: Daily, at 10am

Little Legs Kids Tour

• Departure point: Westminster Pier (stop #18)
• Timings: Every weekend, 27-31 May (daily), and July & August at 2pm

Cruise Details

• Boarding points: Tower Pier (near stop #17), Greenwich Pier, Westminster Pier (near stop #19), or London Eye Pier (near stops #12 & 13)
• Frequency: approx. every 50 mins.

Evening Tour

• Boarding points: London Eye (Stop 11) at 19:30
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tip: Visit the Covent Square Market, the most popular market in London for jewelry, antiques, or a souvenir of your trip as the merchandise changes every day.
• Facilities: Wheelchair accessibility, pre-recorded commentary.
• The pre-recorded commentary is available in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish.
• The live commentary is available in English, only on the red route.

Tootbus: 24/48/72-Hour London Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with Thames River Cruise

• Slash your London sightseeing costs! Save up to 25% on adult, child and family tickets with this hop-on, hop-off pass and travel at your own pace.
• Ride and stop as you please unlimited times on any of the 40+ stops across 3 routes as buses arrive every 15-40 mins.
• The cherry on top? Immerse the allure of the River Thames with a one-way river cruise.
• Admire city views from the eco-friendly double-decker buses, equipped with multilingual audio guides for adults and kids.
• Popular stops include The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and more!
• 24/48/72-hour HOHO pass
• One-way River Thames cruise
• Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese, Brazilian, Chinese, Russian & Arabic
• Kids' audio guide in English & French (only on Yellow route)
• Family tickets
• Live/recorded commentary in English (on the cruise)
• Audio guide in Italian, French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, English & Japanese (on the cruise)
• Free earphones made from recyclable materials
• Entry to attractions
• Live guide on the bus

Yellow route

• First bus: 8:30am from Coventry Street
• Last bus: 8pm from Coventry Street (Note: until Jun 28, the last bus is from 7pm to 8pm)
• Frequency: 10-20 mins
• Popular stops: London Eye, Buckingham Palace

Royal Blue route

• First bus: 8:30am from Grosvenor Gardens
• Last bus: 6:20pm from Grosvenor Gardens
• Frequency: 15-20 mins
• Popular stops: Parliament Street, Harrods

Green route

• First bus: 8:35am from Wyndham's Theatre
• Last bus: 7:30pm from Wyndham's Theatre (Note: until Jun 28, the last bus is from 5:30pm to 7:30pm)
• Frequency: 30 mins
• Popular stops: British Museum, Bedford Place

Thames River cruise

• First boat: 10am from Tower Pier
• Last boat: 5:15pm from Tower Pier
• Frequency: 40 mins
• Popular stops: Westminster Pier

Westminster Pier

• First boat: 10am from Westminster Pier
• Last boat: 6pm from Westminster Pier
• Popular stops: London Eye & Tower Pier

Please click here for detailed route maps and boarding points.

• Tip: Explore a local market or two. Borough Market and Portobello Road Market are treasure troves of food, antiques, and local finds.
• The buses run on clean energy, such as fully electric power, biogas, or biofuel, making them eco-friendly.
• You can access the self-guided walking tours on the Tootbus app, which takes you through Kensington Gardens, Royal shopping in St James’s, Architecture & Celebration.
• This experience is wheelchair accessible.
• Your guide dogs are welcome on the buses, pets and small dogs must be seated at your knees.
• Children aged 4 and under can travel for free, if they don't need a separate seat.
• You can use your tickets on any day before the tour date. However, just keep in mind that they cannot be redeemed if the first day of travel has already passed.

Tootbus: 24/48/72-Hour London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Night Tour

• See the best of London with a 24/48/72-hour hop-on, hop-off pass across 3 routes and get limited-time discounts of up to 25% on adult, child and family tickets.
• Hop on and off as many times as you like, and soak in the rich history, culture, and lifestyle of the city with over 40 stops near the iconic sights.
• Want more? The pass includes 3 free walking tours or you can upgrade for a 90mins night tour.
• With a multilingual audio guide and kid's audio guide, listen to riveting tales as you witness the city's wonders from eco-friendly open-top buses.
• Popular stops across your HOHO route include the Harrods, London Eye, Tower of London, and more.
• 24/48/72-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
• 90 mins night tour (optional)
• Kids audio guide in English & French (on yellow route & night tour)
• 3 self-guided walking tours
• 7:30pm (Apr 2 to 30 & Sep 4 to 24), 8pm (May 1 to 28), 8:30pm (May 29 to Sep 3), 7pm (Sep 25 to 29 Oct) & 5:30pm (Oct 30 to Nov 12) from Coventry Street
• Frequency: once a day
• Tip: London is known for its street art. Look out for hidden gems at stops like Shoreditch or Brixton.
• The night tour is closed from Nov 13 to Mar 28.
• Children aged 4 and under can travel for free, if they aren't entitled to their own seat.

City Sightseeing: 1-Day or 24/48-Hour London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Thames River Cruise

• Explore London at your own pace as you hop on and hop off unlimited times with your hop-on hop-off pass.
• Get access to 3 routes and 20+ stops covering the entire city with an Iconic 1-day pass, or 24 or 48-hour HOHO pass.
• With the 24/48-hour passes get a one-way cruise on the River Thames, from Westminster to the Tower Pier and 5 award-winning self-guided walking tours of London.
• Learn more about the locations you pass through a multilingual audio guide, available in 11 languages on board and get access to a self-guided Royal London Tour available in English with both passes.
• Some popular stops on your hop-on hop-off route include the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Queen Elizabeth Gate, Piccadilly Circus, and more.

1-Day HOHO Pass

• 1-day hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Free walking tour of Royal London with audio guide
• Audio guide in Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Arabic & Polish

24-Hour HOHO Pass

• 24-hop-on hop-off bus tour
• One-way Thames River cruise

48-Hour HOHO Pass

• 48-hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Free walking tour of Royal London, Covent Garden, Borough Market, Southbank & Nothing Hill with audio guide
• First bus: 8:30am from Belvedere Road
• Last bus: 7:35pm from Belvedere Road
• Popular stops: Grosvenor Gardens, London Bridge, Westminster Bridge
• First bus: 9am from Hyde Park (Queen Elizabeth Gate)
• Last bus: 6pm from Hyde Park (Queen Elizabeth Gate)
• Popular stops: Royal Albert Hall, Harrods, Victoria and Albert Museum

Green Route (Shuttle)

• First bus: 9:17am from Belvedere Road & 8:55am from Aldwych
• Last bus: 4:17pm from Belvedere Road & 3:55pm from Aldwych
• Frequency: every 20 to 30 mins
• Popular stops: Lancaster Place, Southampton Row

Thames River Cruise

From Westminster Pier

• First cruise: 10:06am
• Last cruise: 7:15pm
• Frequency: every 40 mins

From Tower Pier

• First cruise: 10:05am
• Last cruise: 6:20pm

Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points.

• Tip: Hop off at Buckingham Palace and visit the state rooms and gardens. Also, stay behind to watch the Changing of the Guards Ceremony.
• Keep in mind food & beverages, smoking, large luggage or suitcases are not allowed on the buses. Pack wisely!
• The buses are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
• Ramps are available for easy access.
• Your guide dogs are welcome on the buses.
• Facilities: free Wi-Fi, headphones.
• Only hand luggage allowed per passenger allowed.
• A 1-day ticket is valid for 1 calendar day whereas the 24-hour ticket is valid for 24 hours. For example, if you hop on at 10am, then your ticket remains valid till 10am the following day.

Golden Tours: London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional Cruise

• Explore the best of London with maximum flexibility as you hop on and off unlimited times with this hop-on hop-off bus pass.
• Choose between a 1-day, 24, 48, or 72-hour pass with 4 dedicated routes and over 70 stops, available every 5 to 10 minutes.
• The 24, 48, or 72-hour passes include a free royal walking tour, Beatles London walking tour, and a boat ride on the River Thames.
• Enjoy panoramic views of London from the open-topped deck of these double-decker buses with free-wifi, a 3D treasure-hunting game, a live English-speaking guide available on the blue route, and an audio guide available in 12 different languages across all routes.
• Some of the iconic stops include St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben.
• 1 Day/24hr/48hr/72hr Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Pass
• Live English-speaking guide on the Blue Route
• Audioguide in 12 languages
• 3D Treasure Hunt Game
• One mobility impairment access seating per bus
• Complimentary walking tour (as per option selected)
• River Thames Cruise (as per option selected)
• Entrance tickets to attractions
• Additional Gratuities

Yellow Route

• The first bus is at 8:10am from opposite Hilton London Kensington, Holland Park Avenue, Bus Stop HJ, and the last bus is at 10:10pm.
• Frequency: every 20 mins.
• Popular stops: Bayswater Road, Notting Hill, and Holland Park.
• The first bus is at 9am from Victoria and the last bus is at 5pm (Apr to Oct) and 4:30pm (Nov to Mar)
• Frequency: Approx every 20 to 30 mins.
• Popular stops: Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Tower Bridge & St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• The first bus is at 10am from Hyde Park and the last bus is at 5pm.
• Popular stops: Tower of London, London Eye, Tower Bridge & London’s Museum District.

Orange Route

• The first bus is at 10am from Lambeth Palace and the last bus is at 5pm.
• Popular stops: Buckingham Palace, Paddington, Marble Arch, Madame Tussauds, Kings Cross & St. Pauls Cathedral.

Complimentary Walking Tours

Available with the 24/48/72 hour Tickets

Free Hop-on-Hop-off Thames Boat Tour – Lilac Route

• The first boat departs at 11am from Westminster Pier.
• Frequency: every 30 mins.
• Popular stops: Parliament Square & St. James’ Palace

Royal Walking Tour

• Departure Time and Day: 10:00 AM Daily (Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time)
• Duration: 2 Hours
• Departure Location: Bus Stop outside The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace, Buckingham Gate, SW1A 1AA
• Return Point: Westminster Abbey

Jack The Ripper Walking Tour

• Departure Time and Daye: 3:30 PM Daily (Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time)
• Duration: 1.5 Hours
• Departure Location: Ice Cream Refreshments stand next to the Tower Hill Station exit
• Return Point: Near Liverpool Street Underground Station

Please click here and here for the detailed route map and boarding points.

• Tip: At Big Ben, visit the Prison Room which is accessible from the House of Commons and is currently occupied by the Petitions Committee.
• Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Free Wi-Fi.
• The walking tours are available in English only.
• The audio guide is available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Brazilian Portuguese, Hindi, Japanese & Arabic.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Tootbus: London Kids Tour with Live Guide

• Discover London’s best with the flexibility of the kid's tour a single ticket that offers the freedom to see London's iconic landmarks.
• Convenient and efficient, the 45-min tour departs every 45 mins from Fri to Sun and holidays, ensuring you don't miss out on any of the capital's attractions.
• Experience the city in style on an open-top bus, complete with engaging live commentary for your kids that brings the rich history of London to life.
• Popular spots along your way include Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, Downing Street, and more.
• 45-min bus tour of London
• Live commentary in English
• First bus: 11 am from Charles II Street (departures may vary with season)
• Last bus: 3 pm from Charles II Street (departures may vary with season)
• Frequency: every 45 mins

Please click here for a detailed route map.

• Tip: At Downing Street, try getting a glimpse of the British Prime Minister's residence, or look out for neon-colored advertisement boards at Piccadilly Circus.
• Keep in mind food & beverages and smoking are not allowed on the buses. Pack wisely!
• The buses are wheelchair accessible.
• Ramps are available on the buses for easy access.
• Your guide dogs are welcome aboard.
• Facilities: free Wi-Fi.
• Pets and small animals are allowed only if they are positioned at your knees.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult all the time.
• Infants aged 3 and under can travel for free.
• The tour takes place only on Fri, Sat, and Sun and every day during school holidays.
• During the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, public transport and sightseeing buses are not allowed in front of the palace. The 1pm tour will be diverted on these days.

Tootbus: London Night Bus Tour

• Dive into London's night magic on a 90-minute tour. You'll be on an open-top bus, perfect for seeing all those lit-up landmarks.
• This tour really covers it all – you'll get to see all the major spots like the Tower of London, the London Eye and the Shard.
• The audio guide available in 10 languages tells you stories about the places you see, adding a touch of learning to your experience.
• Oh, and don’t forget your camera! There are tons of chances to snap photos with the city lights making everything look extra special.
• 90 min night bus tour in London
• Audio guide in 10 languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese, Brazilian, Chinese, Russian and Arabic
• Fri, Sat & Sun: 7:30pm in March & April | 8pm in May | 8:30pm in Jun to Aug | 7:30pm in Sep | 7pm in Oct | 5:30pm in Nov
• Departing from Coventry Street, London W1D 6BH
• Tip: Try to soak in the atmosphere at the bustling Southbank, it's a cultural hub you wouldn't want to miss.

Big Bus: London Evening Tour

• Soak up London’s charm during a 2-hour non-stop tour, showcasing the iconic landmarks under a mesmerizing dusk sky.
• This once-a-day evening tour offers an exclusive experience, letting you explore the city's famous sights at a leisurely pace.
• Benefit from the convenience of open-top buses and tune in to the pre-recorded commentary letting you delve into the city's rich history and culture.
• Be captivated by the striking sights of Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, and witness the eye-catching spectacle of the London Eye, set against the city's evening skyline.
• 2-hour evening tour
• Pre-recorded commentary in English, French, German, Spanish & Italian
• First bus: 7:30pm from the London Eye
• Tip: Nearby the London Eye stop is the famous 'Gordon’s Wine Bar', London's oldest, worth a visit post-tour.
• Require special accommodations for your disability? Rest assured as you can contact the service provider and they'll try to assist you.
• Mobility scooters cannot be accommodated on board due to size and weight limitations.
• Children aged 3 and under can travel for free.
• Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Golden Tours: Central London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• This is THE classic London experience – high tea and sightseeing , all rolled into a 90-minute bus tour of Central London.
• See London's popular sights out your window – Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the London Eye, you name it, with plenty of Insta-worthy moments along the River Thames.
• Tuck into some tasty bites like: smoked salmon on toast and scones slathered in jam and cream. Fancy a glass of Prosecco or maybe a cuppa tea or coffee? It's all there.
• Got dietary needs? No worries! Veggie, vegan, gluten-free, they've got you covered. Plus, pick your fave spot – upper or lower deck!
• 90-min afternoon tea bus tour
• Tea menu here
• Glass of Prosecco or soft drink
• Souvenir mug
• Seating on the lower/upper deck (as per option selected)
• First bus: 11:30am from Bulleid Way.
• Second bus: 2:30pm from Bulleid Way.
• Last bus: 4:30pm from Bulleid Way.
• Popular sights: Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard, London Eye, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey

Please click here for the detailed route map.

• Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 4 years.
• Keep in mind luggage and large bags are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
• Guests may have to share tables.
• You must contact the activity provider at least 72 hours prior to the travel date to confirm your choice of menu (general or vegetarian) or you will be served the general menu.
• Keep in mind this activity does not have a tour guide although the staff onboard will highlight points of interest and famous landmarks.
• Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult.
• The route is subject to change due to road closures and traffic conditions.
• Alcohol will only be served to those aged 18 and over, valid ID is required.

London Explorer Pass by Go City: Choose 2 to 7 Attractions

• You can cancel these tickets up to 90 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Perfect for those looking to explore London's top attractions, the Explorer Pass includes access to landmarks, cruises, and hop-on hop-off tours.
• Save up to 50% on the individual cost of admission tickets to the London Eye, The Tower of London, Up At The O2, Tower Bridge, and more.
• Make the most of your London trip by visiting iconic places like London Aquarium, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, The London Dungeon, and more.
• Explore at your own pace and comfort and pick from 2 to 7 famous attractions in London including cruises and hop-on hop-off tours.
• Valid for 60 days from your first visit, choose attractions as you go, there's no need to pick before you purchase.
• Access to 2/3/4/5/6/7 attractions
• Museums: London Transport Museum, Charles Dickens Museum, The Guards Museum & more
• Zoos: London Zoo, SEA LIFE London Aquarium & more
• Landmarks: London Eye, The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey & more
• Bus tours and cruises: 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, Jason’s Canal Boat Trip, City Cruises Thames River Pass & more
• Guided tours: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour, London Stadium Tour, Royal Albert Hall Tour & more
• Activities: London Bridge Experience, Ice-skating at QUEENS, Solve A Mystery: the Murder at Buckingham Palace & more
• Get complete details here
• Airport transfers
• Public transport
• You can cancel your pass within 90 days of purchase and get a full refund if it hasn't been activated yet.
• Some attractions require advance bookings.
• You can visit each attraction only once daily.
• The app is available in English, French, German, and Spanish.
• First, download the Go City App. Follow the instructions on your order confirmation to sync your pass with the Go City app.
• Once you visit your first attraction, your pass will be activated! Feeling old school? You can also print your pass at home using the link in your confirmation email. You can also show this version of your pass on your phone.
• The Go City app has loads of handy features to help you plan your itinerary, check attraction opening times, and reserve (where required).
• Before activation: Valid for 60 days from the date of purchase.
• After activation: Your pass is activated as soon as you visit your 1st attraction. The pass can be activated within 2 years from the date of purchase.
• These tickets are valid for 24 months from the date of purchase.

London City Tour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours 2024

The double-decker City Tour hop-on hop-off bus is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to go sightseeing in London . The City Tour company offers London hop-on hop-off tours with 70+ bus stops near the city’s top attractions and landmarks. 

Hop-on Hop-off bus tours allow you to explore all of the city’s exciting offerings hassle-free. Hop onto one of their buses and hop off at any of the numerous stops to take a closer look at desired attractions.

London City Tour offers over 70 stops across numerous routes with comfortable coaches. It is one assured way of ensuring that you have a comfortable experience sightseeing while you save on money and time!

Why Choose London City Tour?

The London City Tour Hop-on Hop-off bus routes are designed so that their stops are within close walking distance of the city’s major landmarks, attractions, and monuments.

Even of you don’t wish to get on and off, you can get an overview of the city by just sitting in the bus and travelling the different routes. 

You can choose from six routes – the Yellow Original Tour, Blue Royal Borough Route, Orange British Tour, and Red, Purple and Silver, Shuttle Routes

It is an excellent way to avoid the stress and expense of planning your transportation in a new city. City Tour HOHO buses have well-planned fixed routes that make it easy to plan an itinerary.

With London City Tour you can listen to pre-recorded commentary in 10+ languages to learn about the history and interesting facts of the attractions as you pass them.

Your London City Tour Ticket Options Explained

24 Hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour

• Get a 24-hour ticket and see the best of London from an open-top bus for 1 day. 
• Stops at all the major sights such as London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and Madame Tussauds.
• There are complementary walking tours and a free River Thames cruise included in your ticket.
• Listen to an audio guide in 10+ languages and learn more about the city’s landmarks. 

Flexible Cancelation Policy: Get a full refund on canceling this ticket up to 24 hours in advance.

48 Hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour

• Get a 48-hour ticket and see the top sights in London from a double-decker bus for 2 days. 
• Explore some of the major sights such as Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and Madame Tussauds.
• Enjoy three complimentary walking tours and a free River Thames cruise.
• Listen to the audio commentary that is available onboard in 10+ different languages. 

London City Tours Timetable

Yellow original tour route.

• Timing: 8:30 AM to 6 PM
• Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes

Blue Royal Borough Route 

• Timing: 8 AM to 6 PM

Orange British Tour Route 

• Timing: 8:35 AM to 5:30 PM
• Frequency: Every 20 minutes

Morning Silver Shuttle Tour

• Timings: 8 AM to 9:00 AM

Red Shuttle Route

• Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
• Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes

Purple Shuttle

• Timings: 9:30 AM to 5 PM
• Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM
• Frequency: Every 30-40 minutes

Stops: Tower Pier, Greenwich Pier, Westminster Pier, or London Eye Pier

London City Tours Routes

Download Map >

The Yellow Route takes you to all the main Central London landmarks, including the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, The Shard, Tower Bridge and Leicester Square, and more

The first bus starts at Grosvenor Garden at 8:30 AM and the last bus is at 6 PM.

Orange British Tour Route

The Orange Route is perfect for visitors that want to see the best of North London. Stops include the British Museum, the British Library, King’s Cross Station, Chinatown, and Covent Garden.

The first bus departs from Woburn Place at 8:35 AM and the last bus is at 5:30 PM all year round.

Blue Royal Borough Route

The Blue Route is perfect for visitors that want to see the best of Central and West London. It covers Kensington Place, Royal Albert Hall, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye.

The first bus departs from Kensington Road at 8 AM and the last bus leaves at 6 PM. 

Morning Silver Shuttle

This Morning pick-up shuttle service is a way for you to conveniently get from West London, Bayswater, Notting Hill, Holland Park and Paddington, to Marble Arch in Central London. 

The first bus leaves Holland Park Avenue at 8:00 AM and last bus is at 9:00 AM

Red and Purple Shuttles

The Red Shuttle will take you from Marble Arch to Regent’s Park and back, while the Purple Shuttle is a way for you to travel from the hotel region of West London, including Holland Park, and Notting Hill to Central London. 

In the morning, the first bus leaves 9 AM, while in the evening the first bus leaves from 5 PM.

River Cruise

This complimentary one-way River Cruise takes you down the River Thames. It departs from Westminster Pier or or London Eye Pier, and stops at Tower Bridge Quay near The Tower of London, and at Greenwich Quay.

The first boat departs from Westminster Pier at 9 AM the last one leaves at 5 PM.

Highlights of the Barcelona Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

St. Paul's Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of Europe’s largest cathedrals Listen to the haunting acoustics in the Whispering Gallery and soaking in the breathtaking views offered by the Stone and Golden Galleries.

Buckingham Palace

Visit the Queen’s residence at Buckingham Palace . Stroll through the vast palatial gardens and witness the Change of Guards ceremony, at this treasure trove of royal experiences.

Westminster Abbey

One of the UK’s most important religious buildings, Westminster Abbey the burial and memorial site of writers, actors, scientists, thinkers, and other famous historical significant figures.

Parliament Square

Parliament Square has some of the capital’s most iconic buildings including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and statues of famous leaders and historical figures.

Experience a breathtaking view of London from atop the 443-feet high London Eye observation wheel located near the River Thames,  for a unique perspective of London.

River Thames

Explore the beautiful River Thames on a  River Cruise . Travel under the London Bridge, see the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and admire the Festival Hall and the London Eye.

London Bridge

Just off the banks of River Thames, the London Bridge area is famous for its restaurants and the Tower Bridge. Often confused with the London Bridge, the Tower Bridge has stunning river views.

Madame Tussauds

Home to lifelike wax figures of over 250 celebrities,at  Madame Tussauds you can see the Royal Family, Benedict Cumberbatch, James Bond, and more.

London City Tours Visitor Tips and Guidelines

• Plan your day ahead in advance as the bus routes are in a loop and there are a few points where you can change over to other routes. Make sure you consider the timings of the attractions and the days of closing as you don’t want to waste time alighting at the wrong stops! 
• As much as possible pre-book your tickets as you can avoid spending time in the queues outside attractions. You can purchase skip-the-line tickets for London attractions on Headout. 
• The top deck is comfortable during summer but ensure you pack protective sun gear, like sunscreen and a hat, just in case it gets too hot. 
• Remember that London follows the right-hand side driving system and if you want the best close-up views of the sights as you are passing by it’s best to use the seats on the right-hand side of the bus. 
• It is advisable to carry snacks and water in a small backpack while on the bus. This is ideal if you wish to take a route loop and don’t wish to get down in between. 
• London is great for walking and a few of the neighborhoods are best experienced while walking like Covent Garden, Piccadilly Circus, and Oxford Street. Make sure you visit these areas before or after the Bus tour timings so that you can make the best of using the bus to get around.

Frequently Asked Questions About London City Tour

A. City Tour is one of the top hop-on hop-off tours in London.

A. Hop-on hop-off buses are tourist buses that allow you to board and leave whenever you like and sightsee at your own convenience.

A. You can purchase London Hop-on hop-off bus tour tickets online.

A. Yes, you can buy London City Tour hop-on-hop-off tickets online here .

A. There are multiple hop-on hop-off bus tours, most of which begin from £40.

A. London City Tour hop-on hop-off bus tours run at a frequency of 15 to 30 minutes.

A. There are three City Tour bus routes in London - the yellow, blue, and orange tours. There are also three shuttle routes - red, purple, and silver.

A. Yes, you will get access to audio guides available in up to 11 languages to learn more about the city.

A. Yes, the London City Tour hop-on hop-off tours are accessibility-friendly for wheelchair users.

Get in touch

[email protected]

Call today on

+44 (0) 203 488 7611

Tootbus - The Original London Bus Tour

DURATION (APPROX): 24hr / 48hr Tickets

Highlights of Tootbus - The Original London Bus Tour

• 24hr / 48hr Tickets
• Unlimited Hop On Hop Off - 2 Routes
• Free Thames River Cruise (when "Bus & River Cruise" ticket type selected)
• Audio Guided Commentary
• Kids English Audio Guide
• Complimentary WiFi

Language Options

Schedule of tour

First Bus: 9.30am

Last Full Tour: 5.00pm

Bus Frequency: Mon - Sun every 20-30mins

Departure Points:

• Piccadilly Circus
• Trafalgar Square
• St Paul's Cathedral
• Marble Arch
• Tower of London
• Westminster Pier
• Buckingham Palace

Description

Explore the sights and sounds of the city with Tootbus, London's Original Hop on Hop off Bus Tour. See St Paul's Cathedral , Buckingham Palace, London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London plus much more. Enjoy a free Thames River Cruise which is included with your 24hr & 48hr ticket.

Tootbus - Original Tour Route Map

Full details, hop on hop off bus.

Your 24hr / 48hr Tootbus ticket gives you unlimited access to Hop on Hop off across all the distinctive, red, white & blue coloured Toot buses.

With 22+ Tootbus stops, and buses operating every 30 minutes you're never far away from your next Original open top bus.

• Yellow Route - The Original Tour, highlights the must see attractions of London including Buckingham Palace, St Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, The Shard and much more.
• Blue Route - The Royal Borough Tour, passes through the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, home to the exclusive shopping district of Knightsbridge, with the world famous Harrods department store. Kids will love Kensington where you will find the Natural History Museum, Science Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum, normally all with free entry.

Visitor's Tip: We recommend if it’s your first visit to London to ride the Original Tour (yellow tour) for the complete tour, this takes approx 2.0 hours. Afterwards, you are able to Hop on Hop off at your favourite London landmarks, or just continue sightseeing from the comfort of your Original Tour open top bus.

Thames River Cruise

Why not enjoy a Free Thames River Cruise, which is included when "Bus+ River Cruise" ticket type is purchased.

You can enjoy a Thames River cruise from either Westminster Pier (near Big Ben), or Tower Pier (near the Tower of London).

• 24hr / 48hr Hop on Hop off Bus Ticket

Your ticket is valid for 24 hours from the time you have the ticket validated by a member of The Original Tour on-street staff. For example, if you board your first bus at 3.00pm with a 24 hour ticket, you can use the ticket until 3.00pm the following day.

*Free Thames River Cruise is included when "Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour + River Cruise" ticket type is selected.

Children aged 0-4 years travel free of charge but will not occupy a seat. If you require a seat for an infant, please purchase a child seat for them.

Please note that these tickets are not valid on Christmas Day 25th December 2024

"Great tour!"

"It was Fun Enjoyed"

"Bello! Un buon modo per vedere la città soprattutto se è la prima volta, come ne mio caso, anche se è un po corto come orario e quindi nn sostituisce la metro. Ai bambini è piaciuto forse anche perché il tempo è stato sempre bello......con la pioggia..... chissà."

"Upgraded to two day tour. Commentary very informative on the yellow tour. very entertaining. pity about the tube strike as tour took two hours longer than usual but the commentary made up for the long waits. Would recommend to friends"

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The Original Tour is now Tootbus London

Ratp dev sightseeing activities will resume operation in london under a new brand: tootbus (the original open tour bus)..

This announcement follows the unveiling of Tootbus Bath and Tootbus Bristol, which were launched earlier in May.

… for a new City experience:   “ Let the city take you by surprise” 

Tootbus offers tourists the chance to experience the vibrant cultural life and rich historical legacy of London by taking in its most beautiful treasures. Visitors need merely step on board a Tootbus and let the city surprise them.

The Tootbus experience has been designed to offer tourists a convenient, entertaining, open-air way to discover or rediscover the city. Whether the passenger is a local or someone visiting for the first time, Tootbus London guarantees an exciting journey full of surprises, from historical landmarks to hidden gems.

After a year-long pause due to COVID-19, our teams are committed to once again providing our passengers with a safe and memorable tour of the city. Tootbus London is re-opening with some changes:

• a more digitalised service to simplify and enhance the experience for our customers: with our new website ( www.tootbus.com ), buying a sightseeing ticket has never been so easy and convenient
• a restructured offer to better match consumer demand among a more locally-based and family-oriented clientele 

On board Tootbus London open-top buses, the open-air experience is fully compliant with the public health measures and recommendations currently in effect . Tootbus London is proud to have received Visit Britain’s “We are Good to Go” accreditation.

A whole new audio-guide experience  

With this new identity comes the promise of a fun experience for international tourists and locals alike. The commentaries in the Tootbus audio guide have been wholly revised to help visitors form lasting memories and emotional bonds with the city as they travel to their next sightseeing stop, restaurant, or attraction.

Forging a closer connection with Londoners is a crucial aspect of the experience for visitors to the city. On Tootbus, that aspect is assured by our local guides; engaging characters who relish the chance to give passengers an authentic taste of their beloved city.  

For the convenience of our passengers, the exclusive Tootbus audio guide commentaries will be available in the Tootbus mobile app, so they can enjoy the experience wherever and whenever they want to.

Another new feature of Tootbus London is the audio guide specially created for children. Narrated by a local child exploring the city with his foreign friend, in a way that is fun and engaging, the kid’s audio guide is nonetheless informative and packed with history.

A singular identity for a deep-rooted company 

The Original Open Tour has been a part of London’s cityscape since 1951. It was the world’s first Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing company and has received multiple awards over the years. Now part of RATP Dev, our company continues to innovate and uphold our commitment to giving visitors an excellent service and an authentic experience of the city.

We have wholly revised our service to line up with consumer demand in today’s market: in addition to Hop-On Hop-Off tours, Tootbus offers unique experiences such as the Night Tour, the Kids’ Tour, and more recently the London Bar Bus, with live music on board.

We have long been a part of London. Over the decades, we have hosted countless tourists from all corners of the globe. Over the decades, we have worked hand in hand with our fellow Londoners and the local authorities. After the unprecedented times we have faced, we are even more committed to giving visitors a chance to marvel at the wonders of this extraordinary city. A city tour that is comfortable, convenient, memorable, responsible, and dotted with little-known gems of culture and history.

Catherine Booth, Managing Director of Tootbus London: “Over the last several months, we have been hard at work crafting novel and unique experiences for visitors to London. Today, we are delighted to be back up and running in the city under this new brand. We are proud to share our vision of getting London’s tourism and entertainment sector back on its feet. Our whole team is eager to welcome visitors on board the Tootbus experience and our new digital platform makes it easier for our customers and partners to book and buy tickets.”

About the company

We're not called The Original Tour for no reason. The Original Tour really was the original sightseeing bus tour in London. Since 1951, we have been providing sightseeing bus tours around the city. Our tour was first introduced by London Transport as Service J for the Festival of Britain, where we invited tourists to hop on board to tour ‘around the town for half a crown’.

In the early days, we operated a non-stop circular tour of London and tickets cost just 50p for adults and 30p for children. We were the first to introduce the, now popular, open-top bus tours and in 1970, we extended our service to include coach tours in the City, Windsor and Hampton Court.Showing no signs of putting the brakes on, we lead the way once again and introduced live guides on our tours in 1984. When the 90s arrived we launched audio commentary in 8 languages, our popular hop-on hop-off service and, after several name changes, we became The Original Tour in 1992.Now, over 65 years later, we are part of the RATP Group, the world’s 5th largest public transport provider. We are immensely proud of the innovative sightseeing bus services we have introduced over the years which are now common in cities all over the world. With multiple awards and a dedication to excellent service, enjoy the original way to see London with The Original Tour . 

About RATP Dev

Founded in 2002, RATP Dev operates and maintains urban public transport networks in 13 countries on four continents (Egypt, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Switzerland, Algeria, Morocco, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Hong Kong – S.A.R. China, the Philippines, and the United States of America). With more than 1.5 billion passengers travelling on its networks every year, RATP Dev demonstrates its extensive and renowned expertise every day through a wide range of mobility services:   rail transport, regional express rail, tramways, buses, cable cars, and sightseeing tours. The RATP Group has long operated the Paris public transport network, one of the largest such networks in the world. But beyond Paris, in France and around the world, RATP Dev brings to bear the technical expertise and experience of the RATP Group to lead the way in driverless and   tramway operations.   For more information, go to: www.ratpdev.com

Avoid These Tourist Traps In London And Visit These Destinations Instead

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

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

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

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

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

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

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

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

Skip Madame Tussauds And Visit Buckingham Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Skip London Dungeon And Visit The Tower Of London

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

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

Skip The London Bridge Experience And Visit Churchill War Rooms

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

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

Skip The Sherlock Holmes Museum And Visit The Sherlock Holmes Pub

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

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

Skip The SEA Life London Aquarium And Visit The London Zoo

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

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

Skip The Shard And Visit Level 10 At The Tate Modern

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

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

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

Skip The London Eye And Visit Hamstead Heath

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

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

Skip Harrods And Visit Peter Jones And Liberty

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

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

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

Our Ranking Methodology

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

Read the original article on Explore .

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17 Best Day Trips From London — From Small Towns to Stunning Forests

Take a break from the big city.

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There’s no denying London is one of the greatest cities in the world for art, culture, history, and theater. After a weeklong trip, though, you may want to escape its hustle and experience some of the U.K.'s best forests, country houses, seaside towns, and even other European neighbors. Thankfully, all of this and more lies within easy reach of the capital.

"London is often seen as the gateway to the rest of Europe and the United Kingdom, with six international airports and excellent rail connections to continue your onward journey," said Rose Wangen-Jones, the managing director of London & Partners, which runs the city's official tourism site . "You could even be at the Eiffel Tower taking snaps of the Paris skyline in just over two hours, thanks to the high-speed Eurostar train."

Complete with riverside walks, ancient towns, idyllic streets filled with indie shops, and amazing restaurants, here are our picks for the best day trips from London.

Whitstable, Kent

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Ask any Londoner and they’ll often tell you Whitstable, located about an hour east of London via high-speed train, is at the top of their city escape list. One of the U.K.'s most charming seaside towns , Whitstable is famed for its multicolored North Sea-facing beach huts and restaurants that plate up fresh lobsters. The town’s castle ruins are well worth exploring, too, and the hilly — and sometimes windy — coastal walks will help brush off those cerebral cobwebs.

Another major draw is the town’s oysters. Guzzling half a dozen of these must-try mollusks is almost a rite of passage in these parts, and one of the best times to try them is during the Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival , which takes place every summer. Expect live music, markets selling local wares, and stellar wines.

Margate, Kent

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Thanks to a cultural renaissance spearheaded by celebrities and artists such as Tracey Emin, Margate has experienced a rebirth. The Kent coastal town, less than a two-hour train ride from London, exudes cool grit and harbor glamour, with independent shops, contemporary restaurants, and the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool , made for a quick summer dip. Though Margate is on the gusty side, the Turner Contemporary gallery will keep you shielded from all the elements. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the retro theme park and roller-disco Dreamland is well worth the admission price.

Cliveden House, Berkshire

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Over its long, illustrious history, Cliveden has been a retreat for royals (Meghan, Duchess of Sussex stayed here on the eve of her wedding), and it played host to the scandalous Profumo affair back in the 1960s. The former home of the Astor family, the house was originally built in 1666 by the Duke of Buckingham as a country pad to rival all others. Now, anyone can visit to admire its over-the-top English style (think winding oak staircases and hallways filled with paintings, chandeliers, and armor). Aside from it being a great spot for afternoon tea, Cliveden really is all about stunning riverside walks, park picnics, and if you’ve got the time, a riverboat tour down the Thames. The best part? It's just an hour's drive west of London.

Rye, Sussex

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Instagrammers from across the globe descend upon Rye to snap photos of its cutesy, cobbled lanes and mishmash of Diagon Alley-esque antique shops and bookstores. Just under two hours from London, the small and hilly town is the perfect place to grab a local Sussex ale or English sparkling wine. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants serving top-notch seafood lunches and scrumptious lobster pots. Another bonus? It's close to one of the U.K.’s best beaches , picturesque Camber Sands. Tip: bring a fancy picnic basket.

Box Hill, Surrey 

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Green and pleasant pastures await in this dreamy part of the Surrey countryside. Less than an hour outside of London, Box Hill is a solid quick option for a day trip with fresh air. Most people cycle here from Richmond Park, but if you're short on time, you can take the train. It takes roughly four hours to complete the entire eight-mile circular Box Hill Hike , and those who reach the summit will be treated to sprawling views of the North Downs. Another option is walking from the train station via the Stepping Stones Path , which takes about two hours out and back. The National Trust cafe is a great spot for a well-deserved slice of cake, but if you fancy heading further out, the nearby Beaverbrook hotel has several dining venues on its 470-acre estate, including The Garden House Restaurant , which offers steaks of both the beef and cauliflower variety, salads, seafood, and pasta.

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Despite being more than 200 miles from the capital, York is actually one of the easiest day trips from London. Trains take just under two hours and run frequently enough that you can decide if you want to go the same day. The ancient walled city is best known for its Gothic masterpiece York Minster , one of the U.K.’s oldest cathedrals, dating back to the seventh century.

"York Minster is one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world, as well as one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe," says Nicola Butler, a T+L A-List advisor and owner of NoteWorthy . "The first recorded church on the site was built in 627, and it has had a colorful and varied history ever since. We then suggest our clients admire the timber-framed buildings of the Shambles, which was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086."

In addition to seeing this stunner, visitors can walk along the city walls before climbing up Clifford’s Tower for some awesome views of the city and beyond. Learn about 3,000 years of chocolate history at York's Chocolate Story museum, then hit up the Shambles for winding, Harry Potter -style streets packed with cool storefronts and tea shops.  

Lewes, Sussex

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Lewes often gets overlooked for its neighbor Brighton but this quaint town, located about an hour south of London, has lots to offer. Lewes Castle , the remains of Lewes Priory , and the former home of Anne of Cleves will keep you busy for a few hours, as will the pubs and local handicraft shops. If you have more time to spare, take a cab to the nearby village of Rodmell. Here, you’ll find Monk’s House , the former 16th-century country retreat of groundbreaking 20th-century author Virginia Woolf and her husband, Leonard. The garden is pretty, and you’ll also get to go inside Woolf’s writing lodge where she sat and wrote her most famous novels and essays. And if you’ve got the stamina, the walk to the village of Glynde and its Elizabethan manor is well worth the steep hills. Your reward? Spectacular views over the South Downs.

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The beauty of Europe is its excellent and efficient train network. The Eurostar , for example, takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach the French capital from London’s St. Pancras International station. With little planning, you can easily tackle many of the top attractions in Paris if you book yourself on the earliest service out and the latest back. To make the most of your day here, focus on the heart of the city: the Louvre , Musée d'Orsay , plus the amazing stores, coffee shops, and restaurants of Saint-Germain-des-Prés are all within walking distance of each other. Round out the day at the Trocadéro to snap a selfie with the Eiffel Tower and relax on the banks of the Seine with a picnic, Emily in Paris- style.

Bath, Somerset

One of the best day trips from London for history lovers, Somerset’s largest city beckons visitors with its ancient Roman baths and Georgian architecture. After the Roman period, its healing hot springs experienced a surge in popularity, transforming Bath into a fashionable spa retreat in the 17th and 18th centuries. Recognized as one of UNESCO's "Great Spa Towns of Europe," the city can easily be reached via an hour-and-change train ride from London. When you arrive, explore the bathing complex, constructed around 70 C.E., and have afternoon tea at The Pump Room restaurant. Then, stop by Bath Abbey , where you can tour the top of the church tower. While you can’t swim in the historic baths, the next best option is Thermae Bath Spa 's rooftop thermal pool — a perfect place to cap off your visit before taking the train back to London.

Ashdown Forest, Sussex

Winnie-the-Pooh fans will likely want to add Ashdown Forest to their list of scenic day trips from the capital. A.A. Milne lived near the 6,500-acre woodland when he penned the stories of Christopher Robin and his friends. Better known as the fictional “Hundred Acre Wood,” the forest is accessible via a one-hour train ride to East Grinstead station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride. For an even easier journey, join a customized tour with Pooh Trek , which will pick you up at the station and visit highlights like the historic Pooh Sticks Bridge, plus cozy cottages and pubs. Those looking to extend their stay can even spend a few nights at Milne’s former house, the 16th-century Cotchford Farm .

Brighton, Sussex

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The unofficial gay capital of the U.K. is the place to go if you're in search of wall-to-wall live music venues, classic seaside bed-and-breakfasts, buzzing clubs, and Soho House's members-only Brighton Beach House . About an hour's train ride from London, Brighton's famed Palace Pier , pebbly beach, and shops on The Lanes are all worth a visit. Visitors can expect narrow alleyways packed with independent boutiques, record stores, pizza shacks, vegan eats, and small pubs championing local ales sourced from all over the city’s home county, Sussex.

Hastings, Sussex

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About a 1.5-hour train ride from London, Hastings has a long, colorful, and somewhat brutal history that’s kept tourists flocking to its windy cliffs for centuries. The former battleground of William the Conqueror offers all sorts of to-dos, from the ruins of its Norman castle (no dragons, sadly) to a strip of indie shops to great local restaurants. There's also a long pier stretching out into the English Channel that has "sunset walk" written all over it. The best views can be enjoyed from East Hill, accessible via the U.K.'s steepest funicular, the East Hill Cliff Railway. After riding down, head to George Street, a haven for continental-style cafes, art shops, and bookstores.

Stratford-upon-Avon, West Midlands

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Literature buffs will love this medieval town hidden away in England's West Midlands. Shakespeare’s former homes and his wife Anne Hathaway’s cottage are the major draws. A little more than two hours north of London, the town is also a great place to indulge in a boat tour along the plant-flecked canal basin. If you’re a theater lover, catch a play at the Royal Shakespeare Company 's playhouse (book well in advance), or enjoy a dinner cruise down the picturesque River Avon on the Countess of Evesham restaurant boat.

Canterbury, Kent

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If you dig a medieval cathedral with a dash of Chaucer, head to Canterbury. Roughly a 45-minute train ride from London, the town is a great option for travelers who are pressed for time. Start off with a walk (or bike ride) down the wiggly King’s Lane to check out the city’s stellar indie shops. When it comes to fueling up, there's lots on offer, from pastries at The Goods Shed farmers market and food hall to Scotch eggs at pubs in town. Walk it off in one of England’s oldest parks, Westgate Gardens, before hitting up the nearby Blean Woods Nature Reserve , an ancient woodland filled with rare flora and fauna. The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge is also worth visiting for a glimpse at one of the world's most important collections of cow paintings.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

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An easy, one-hour train journey from St. Pancras, this university city dating back to 1209 is home to some of the world's most photogenic colleges and dorms. Begin your journey at King’s College and stroll through its 15th-century landmark Gothic chapel, home to the world’s largest fan vault and some impressive stained-glass windows.

Next, explore the waterways in a punt, a long, flat-bottomed boat. Aside from hopping on a bike, it’s the simplest (and most fun) way to explore the city on the cheap. Plus, you’ll see all the top attractions, from Trinity College to the Bridge of Sighs , along the way.

"NoteWorthy clients often visit the Wren Library in Trinity College Cambridge, designed by the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren," says Butler. "It is one of Cambridge’s most famous and historic college libraries. This experience will take you behind the scenes to see some extraordinary and valuable literary works guided by a subject expert. Two of Shakespeare’s first folios and various letters of Sir Isaac Newton are just examples of what you could see on the tour."

When you get hungry, head to the Pint Shop for gourmet pub-style food served in a joint once loved by E.M. Forster. The Sunday roast is great, as are all the beers sourced from hops all over the country.

Oxford, Oxfordshire

Famed for its academic history, ivy-clad buildings, and Harry Potter filming locations , Oxford is another university city well worth a day trip from London. The train journey from Paddington or Marylebone station takes just over an hour and once you arrive, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a real-life version of the Wizarding World. Start your visit with a walking tour ( Bodleian Libraries offers guided explorations of the city and its beautiful libraries). Then, climb the tower of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin for one of the best views of the rooftops. In addition to the towering Gothic architecture, the city's historic streets are lined with traditional pubs and charming cafes. After refueling, end your day with a punting adventure along the River Cherwell or visit the Ashmolean Museum , which houses an impressive array of art and artifacts.

Bruton, Somerset

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Somerset is a long day trip from London, but it’s doable and worth the effort if you’re willing to wake up early. One of the most convenient ways to get a taste of it is via the Great Garden Escape , courtesy of one of England's most celebrated hotels, The Newt in Somerset . The approximately two-hour journey sets off from London’s Paddington station, with breakfast served on board before the train rolls into the hills of the West Country. Next to the hotel’s Georgian façade, explore picturesque gardens and ancient woodlands, plus learn the art of cider making before digging into an afternoon tea overlooking the orchards. It’s basically England summed up in about eight hours.

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