london tour company

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

See More London Trips

5 million happy guests and counting

Pound Sterling

Winter avg temp

Good morning

Summer avg temp

Good evening

Good Evening

"I love surprising our guests with London's incredible diversity. You can go from admiring the dazzling architecture and shopping at the trendy boutiques, to watching grand royal ceremonies and meeting the locals in a 16th-century pub - all in one day."

Travel Director

Admire the Big Ben and the imposing Houses of Parliament

As you touch down in London, you’ll surely be searching the skyline for Big Ben, the iconic Clock Tower at the Palace of Westminster, or the Houses of Parliament. You'll have the chance to admire these impressive buildings in the company of your London travel guide and listen for the famous chimes that have been ringing out across London since 1859.

Learn about the history of the Buckingham Palace

You’re in for a royal time at Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British royal family since 1837. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in London, and we’ll take you to marvel at this magnificent palace, learn about it’s centuries-old history, and perhaps even wave to the King if he’s home.

Ramble through London's picturesque Royal Parks

If you love a lush park or garden, you’re in for a real treat in London, with over 5,000 acres of gorgeous green space across the eight Royal Parks. Spend your days strolling, cycling, or simply relaxing in these beautiful parks, from the famous Hyde Park to the ornate Kensington Gardens.

Go on a shopping spree around Carnaby Street and Soho

We’ll dive into London’s West End with a tour around the buzzing borough of Soho, where you’ll get a taste of London’s diverse culture, history and cuisine. Wander down the iconic Oxford and Regent Streets and of course, Carnaby Street, the city’s shopping mecca, and the epicentre of the Swinging Sixties in London.

See the stately Changing of the Guard

You’ll watch history come alive when we take you to Buckingham Palace to witness the spectacular Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a full-on display of royal pomp and military tradition, with the soldiers of The Queen’s Guard in bearskin hats and bright-red uniforms marching down the Mall, and you can’t miss it on your London trip.

Our top 5 things to do in London

With an overwhelming number of iconic London attractions to explore, where to begin? When you travel London with Trafalgar, we’ll show you all the very best of the city.

Tate Modern

As one of the world’s largest museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern is an unmissable London attraction. You’ll find everything here from vibrant artworks to films and performance art, and you can’t miss the giant Turbine Hall, a five-storey tall room used to display extraordinarily large art installations.

Museum of London

If you’ve ever wanted to learn the history of this great city, the Museum of London is the place to go. It’s the world’s largest urban history collection and you’ll learn all about England’s capital from prehistoric to modern times. The museum even overlooks the remains of the Roman city wall on the edge of the oldest area of London.

Science Museum

You could spend hours exploring the treasures of the Science Museum including the world’s greatest innovations, ranging from Puffing Billy, the oldest surviving steam locomotive, to the first jet engine, to the Apollo 10 command module. You’ll travel from the Industrial Revolution all the way into the future in this amazing playground of the mind.

Best museums in London

London’s museums are among the world’s best, with millions of visitors each year to marvel at the incredible history, art and design. What treasures will you find when we take you to these great institutions?

Cottage Pie

It doesn’t get more comforting than a traditional cottage pie, and you’ve got to order this English staple at least once in a classic London pub. It’s been a beloved dish for generations, originating as a clever way to make a hearty meal from leftovers like beef, peas and carrots, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Cornish Pasty

Make a beeline for the nearest bakery in London and discover these little pockets of deliciousness. They’re made from shortcrust pastry stuffed with beef, potatoes, swede, onion and egg, then baked until golden, forming a rich gravy inside its own tasty casing. You’re sure to go back for more than just one Cornish pasty!

Named after the prestigious boys’ boarding school of the same name, this simple yet delicious treat is made from a refreshing blend of cream, strawberries and crushed meringue. It’s a classic British dessert and you can even try it at The National Café at the National Gallery, one of the best art museums in London.

Best food in London

Our London tours are big on foodie experiences, and you can go from a traditional English afternoon tea, to a delicious culinary adventure through Chinatown in the West End.

What to pack for London

Waterproof coat

London is known for its drizzles and rain showers, so pack a waterproof coat or travel-sized umbrella to keep your dry and warm on your London trip.

Comfortable shoes

This city was made for walking, and with so many incredible monuments, museums, parks and markets to explore, you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes to get you around London.

Camera & extra SD cards

From Big Ben to the London Eye, your camera is sure to get a good workout. Pack some extra SD cards so you never run out of space to capture all of London’s pinch-me moments.

Waterproof day bag

Keep your hands free on your London tours with a waterproof day pack, perfect for holding all your shopping and souvenirs and keeping them dry in wet weather.

Warm layers

London is known for experiencing four seasons in one day, so it’s best to wear layers that will keep you warm in the cold weather and cool when the sun comes out.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

Bosnia Herzegovina

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

North Macedonia

Netherlands

Northern Ireland

Switzerland

Other worldwide regions we visit

Africa the Middle East

Australia and New Zealand

North and Central America

South America

Get your free brochure

Find your next escape with the world's leading travel brand

Request A Brochure

Award winning tours

Every year, we're proud to win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world - from the Travel Globes to the Agent's Choice Awards

Search Our Tours

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Best London Tour Companies

Search 75 London tour operators and travel companies, with 1,431 reviews.

Health Safety +

Featured London Trips

All London Tour Companies

Exodus Travels

The Relaxed Explorer

Travel for All

Tours of Distinction

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

Planet Rail

Image Tours

Sage Traveling

Rick Steves

EF College Break (EF Ultimate Break)

Kensington Tours

Go Ahead Tours

Grand Circle Travel

Odysseys Unlimited

Great Rail Journeys

Martin Randall Travel

Addison Cruises

75 match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

View London trips

Plan your London trip

London Reviews & Ratings

Trusted Customer

London to Bordeaux, the Basque Country and the Beach

Five stars for Magdalena as tour leader who went over and beyond to ensure w...

Excellent tour. Train travel was a new experience. Very good

The lovely city of Bordeaux, the two days in San Sebastian, especially the ...

See all London reviews

What to Look for When Reading Tour Company Reviews

Related Trips and Tours

Trip planning.

• Enquire by email only: [email protected]

• Book | Enquire
• Classic London Tour
• London Tour Choice
• Family London Tour
• Family London Choice
• Half-Day London Tour
• Royal London Tour
• Greenwich Tour
• Your London Walks
• Museum & Gallery Tours
• More London Tours
• Family Tours From London
• Windsor Castle & Hampton Ct
• Canterbury & Dover
• Chartwell & Hever Castle
• Oxford & Blenheim Palace
• Stonehenge & Salisbury
• Stratford & Warwick
• Historic Towns
• More Tours from London
• Magna Carta Tour
• Mayflower 400 Years Tour
• Battleships Ahoy! Tour
• William Shakespeare Tour
• Jane Austen Tour
• Winston Churchill Tour
• Harry Potter & Matilda Tour
• British TV, Movies & Books
• More History & Culture Tours
• 4 Tours for price of 3
• Jane Austen 2-Day Tour
• Churchill 2-Day Tour
• Cruise Shore Excursions
• Study Tours
• Sculpture Wars Walk
• Prices | Pay
• FAQs | T&Cs

COVID-SAFE PRIVATE FAMILY TOURS OF LONDON & THE UK

CERTIFIED BY THE UK GOVERNMENT'S GOOD-TO-GO SCHEME TO OPERATE COVID-SAFE TOURS.

CLICK HERE FOR ALL BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES

ALL OUR BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES ARE CONDUCTED BY E-MAIL ONLY

FAMILY LONDON TOUR – BESTSELLER

DEFINITIVE TOUR OF THE GREAT CITY TAILORED FOR YOUNG & OLD

FAMILY TOURS FROM LONDON

OUT-OF-TOWN TAILORED TOURS FOR KIDS AND THE YOUNG AT HEART

STUDY TOURS & FIELD TRIPS

A VALUABLE RESOURCE FOR SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

Testimonials

Your London Tours - UK, 2023

Myra & George Dietz - USA, 2023

Malskis Family - USA, 2023

Sandra & Sally Hauger - USA, 2023

Angela & Whit - USA, 2022

Flemings Family - USA, 2022

Burke Family - USA, 2022

Frank & June, Virginia & Pat - USA, 2019

Linda & Alan - USA, 2019

Bremer Family - USA, 2019

Binenfeld & Loventhal families - USA, 2019

Ellie, Talia & Mayah - USA, 2019

Mills/Leduc/Washburn family - USA, 2018

Joan, Nate & Tammi - USA, 2018

Dorothy & Paul - USA, 2018

Mary & ‘Swanny’ - USA, 2018

Pat Majewski - Australia, 2018

Nolan family - USA, 2018

Laird Sanderson & friends - Canada, 2017

Jan, Lois & Pat - USA, 2017

Caramonta family - USA, 2017

Vicki Norby & Nancy Weller - USA, 2017

Jog family - Canada, 2017

Lelliott family - Australia, 2017

Joan, Elaine & Jim - USA, 2017

General Kenneth Israel, USAF - USA, 2016

Plax family - USA, 2016

Gaerlan family - Philippines, 2016

Keith, Vicky, Katelyn, Madison - USA, 2016

Gibson family - USA, 2016

Our tours covered in the following media:

● Sunday Times Travel magazine: Feature article. ● Travel Agent Central :  Feature article. ● London Evening Standard: Feature article. ● Luxury Travel Guide magazine:  Awards section. ● BBC News: UK news section of the website. ● Trip Advisor : ‘Things To Do in London’. ● Magna Carta Trails: Tours section of website. ● New York Times: ‘About’ section. ● Time Out London: ‘Around Town’ section.

Classic London

Family london, royal london, canterbury & dover, the cotswolds, chartwell & hever, jane austen, winston churchill, shakespeare.

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 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.

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.

Check prices & availability on:

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."

Premium Tours – Full Day London Tour

Price: Adults from 123 pounds (about $156); kids from 113 pounds (about $144) Duration: 9 hours

On Premium Tours' daylong excursion, which lasts about nine hours, you'll take a guided tour of St. Paul's Cathedral and then hopefully catch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (if the timing and weather are right). After you refuel with lunch (at your own expense), you'll journey to the Tower of London to view the crown jewels. Your day ends with a cruise down the Thames and an optional ride on the London Eye. Tour-takers are chauffeured to each landmark in a comfortable bus. While it is a long day, visitors say it is a great way to cover a lot of ground. Plus, they say guides are knowledgeable, humorous and friendly.

Premium Tours also offers a Magic of London tour with a similar itinerary; however, you'll stop for a cream tea at Harrods instead of a ride on the London Eye.

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 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

The best baseball stadium trips.

Rachael Hood May 13, 2024

Icon of the Seas

Skye Sherman May 10, 2024

The Best New York City Tours

John Rodwan and Ann Henson May 9, 2024

The Best Cheap Luggage

Erin Vasta and Amanda Norcross May 9, 2024

Top-Rated St. Augustine Ghost Tours

Holly Johnson May 9, 2024

The Best San Francisco Tours

Lyn Mettler May 8, 2024

The Best Water Parks in the U.S.

May 8, 2024

Top Adults-Only Cruises

Gwen Pratesi May 6, 2024

Top-Rated Newport Mansion Tours

Andrea McHugh May 6, 2024

The 9 New York City Boat Tours

Lyn Mettler May 6, 2024

• London Walks
• Museums and Galleries
• Day Tours From London
• Overnight Tours
• Stonehenge Tours
• Military Tours
• Rambling Tours
• Virtual Tours of Britain
• Paris Day Tours
• Day Tours from Paris
• Overnight Tours of France
• Normandy Tours
• Airport Transfers
• Rome Day Tours
• Day Tours from Rome
• Overnight Tours of Italy
• Special Interest Tours

London Tours

See London away from the large coach groups with your own personal guide. We offer tours for the first-time visitor as well as the frequent visitor, and special interests like Residential London, VIP London, Architecture, London for Kids, Maritime Greenwich, Legal London and more. Also see our London Walking Tours and London's Museums & Galleries . If there is somewhere special you'd like to visit, just ask, we are happy to customise any tour to suit you. Your guide will collect you from your London Hotel.

Private London Tour

London has a history spanning 2000 years and is one of the most exciting cities on earth. Your personal guide will bring the history alive as they regale you with some of its many fascinating ...

London Architecture Tour

British museum tour.

British Tours Blog

Read our blog for news and special interest touring ideas!

Sam’s ability to converse on a huge diversity of topics made him a wonderful traveling partner for a family that loves to talk and listen! Sam shared wonderful information, thoughts, and ideas without ever seeming supercilious. He made learning fun.

Justin Manning

Why choose us?

Because you insist on the longest-established and most experienced service available in Britain. Founded in 1958, British Tours is still under the same management. About Us

Who is your Guide?

Our guides are personable educated men and women, chosen for their knowledge, special interests, backgrounds and personality. They will collect you by car from any central London location and guide you inside places of historic importance

Follow us on our journey

Deals of the Week   All of Europe's finest   Up to 50% OFF

London Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through London. We've got 848 adventures going to London, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 61 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the largest number of tour departures.

250+ London tour packages with 19,978 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

2-Day Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath & Oxford Small-Group Tour from London

Was a fantastic trip. Our guide was the best. Our trip was Sept 10/11 with an overnight stay in Bath.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

3-Day Isle of Wight and the Southern Coast Small-Group Tour from London

Lovely informative driver June Smith, looked after jus well. only complaint was no against tour or compan y was that we were subjected by roa d rage not just oncebut 3 times by the same truck driver jamming his brakes on in front of us probably only 10 feet away from us forcing June to brake hard or be hit. just frightning. but other wise wonderful experience by rabbies. I only use Rabbies when I take tours in UK

Iconic England Tour - 3 days

London Explorer (8 Days)

LONDON EXCURSION: definitely a 5 star tour! Everything worked seamlessly. Our guide, Tony Perry, was friendly and accommodating. Our hotel was on the corner of Hyde Park, the tube station, and great shopping. We were busy every day, and had plenty of time for our own individual excursions of shopping,restaurants, museums,religious worship,and fine theater. All of the sights were interesting and varied,and we had no need to drive. Unqualified recommendation!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Walking Adventure

Iconic England 3 Day Tour with Stonehenge, Roman Baths & Windsor Castle

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Heart of England Express (Hotel) - 2 days

Heart of England Express - 2 days

London and Iconic England Tour - 6 days

Heart of England

This tour was excellent. Derek was a very entertaining tour guide & our driver had a great sense of humour. I highly recommend travelling with Tour Rad.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Kent: the Garden of England

London & Iconic England Tour - 6 days

London & Country

Wonderful trip! Fun places to visit with nice, friendly people.

Paris and London

Was great. The tourist guides were amazing.

Aonghus Youth

Jose is a very knowledgeable, talented, and made our tour exceptionally fun at all times - very entertaining as well !!!

Real Britain (6 Days)

trip good director knowledgeable but lost me with expecting certain amount of tip.would gladly have given one but resented being told how much;

What people love about London Tours

My recent 3-Day Isle of Wight and Southern Coast Small-Group Tour from London was a peaceful and enjoyable experience. The people in our group were friendly and made the trip even better. Our guide, Mark, was fantastic. He knew a lot about the area, cracked jokes, and helped us a lot. His stories and knowledge made the trip interesting and fun. Plus, the breathtaking sights of the lush green landscapes and the mesmerizing sea views were truly amazing. If you want a relaxing getaway with great company, a fantastic guide, and stunning natural beauty, I highly recommend this tour.

Overall, it was a fantastic experience. There were a couple of small hiccups, nothing is perfect, but our guide and our driver did a fantastic job of making the experience fun and meaningful. The only thing I would flag is that the group size is a bit large - we were 46 - which can sometimes make for slower travel. Otherwise, absolutely wonderful!

Tours starting from London

• for 3 Weeks (94)
• for 10 Days (91)
• for 2 Weeks (88)
• for 7 Days (83)
• for 4 Weeks (53)
• for 3 Days (15)
• to Europe (429)
• to England (92)
• to Ireland (18)
• to France (14)
• England Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

Discover TourRadar

• See All Tour Operators in Europe
• See All Tour Operators in England
• Chile Tours
• Spain Tours
• Greece Summer tours
• Evergreen Tours tours
• Via Francigena: Southern Tuscany from Siena
• Mt. Kenya Masai Mara 8 days
• How to Plan the Ultimate USA Road Trip

Britain's Finest Sightseeing

Tours in britain.

Let us take you on an unforgettable journey of discovery into Britain's rich cultural and historical heritage on a full or half-day tour. Experience local culture first-hand and explore Britain in an immersive and more intimate way. Book tickets for London's world-famous attractions or visit Britain's best sights including Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and the Roman Baths during a fantastic guided tour from London.

Day Tours From London

London tours, private tours, recommended tours.

Full and half-day tours throughout the UK and beyond

Harry Potter Studio Tour London

London in one day with changing of the guard, windsor castle, stonehenge and bath tour, popular tours.

Why not choose from a selection of our most popular tours?

Harry Potter Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter

Our Harry Potter Studio Tour is one of our highest-rated tours and is available daily from Central London with comfortable return transportation. Discover the wonders and secrets of Hogwarts and get a glimpse behind the scenes. Step through the doors of the spectacular Great Hall into the dining room, where the Sorting Hat famously sorted Hogwarts students into their houses.

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

ABBA Voyage - Transfer & Concert Ticket

London In One Day Tour with River Cruise & London Eye option

Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & The Cotswolds

The Ultimate Jack The Ripper Guided Tour with Fish & Chips

Afternoon Tea at The Rubens At The Palace with Champagne Option

Guided Paris Small Group Tour with Lunch Cruise

Guided Paris Small Group tour with Champagne Lunch on the Eiffel Tower

Stonehenge 'Inner Circle Access' & Windsor

Evan evans peace of mind.

You can book with us reassured that we have put numerous measures in place to elevate our hygiene standards and protocols, and be confident that your money is in safe hands with our flexible booking terms.

Committed to your well-being

Book with confidence, what makes us different.

As experts in sightseeing and driven by service, we're passionate about creating memories which will last our guests a lifetime

Popular Destinations

Explore some of our most popular destinations

experts in sightseeing

Providing unrivalled expertise, we take you on incredible journeys, provide unforgettable experiences and help to create memories that will last a lifetime.

FANTASTIC ATTRACTIONS

We've hand picked the best of London's and Britain's top attractions along with some hidden gems for unforgettable experiences during your visit

London Attractions

Historic royal palaces, afternoon tea, get inspired.

Delve into our comprehensive travel guides, tips and resources to help you plan your trip and and find everything you need to know about the places on your bucket list

London Guide

Out of london guide, make travel matter.

This is our goal. We recognize our responsibility to ensure our impact on the planet we call home, the people we visit, and the wildlife we find there, is a positive one. We take steps to address our impact in two ways; through our sustainability strategy, How We Tread Right, and through our TreadRight Foundation.

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Spotlight on London

About this tour.

Immerse yourself in one of the world’s most iconic cities and delve into London’s rich history and culture. See Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey on a city tour. Choose between a performance at a London theatre or afternoon tea. Explore the historic Tower of London with an expert guide. Take a river bus along the River Thames and see the city from a different perspective. Explore a local market and the culinary treasures of London on a progressive foodie walking tour. Live like a local and hop on “the Tube.” Every day in London brings a new adventure, encountering majestic pageantry and grand charm.

Your Tour Includes

• 1 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• London Retro Bus
• Westminster Abbey
• London Underground
• Choice on Tour: London Theatre or Afternoon Tea

Your Tour at a Glance

5 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $65.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel spotlight on london.

While just about any month is great to visit London, there are a few prime times of the year for the Spotlight on London tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Summer: London in summer is as popular a time as any. It’s a great time of year to enjoy a boat ride on the Thames and join the locals in enjoying London’s beautiful parks, catching outdoor performances, and exploring London markets.

Fall: Visit in the cool of fall to explore London’s pub life, theater scene, and parks ablaze with color. London’s popularity never really slows down.

Winter: Enjoy a festive atmosphere in London during the holidays! Visit London’s Christmas markets, see Harrods all decked out for the season, or walk in a winter wonderland in Hyde Park.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Test your seafaring prowess on the Victorian-style Cutty Sark ship.

Explore the famous Tower of London.

Visit Westminster Abbey, known for its royal weddings.

Cultural Experiences:

Take a ride on “the Tube” – London’s famous Underground.

Tour the West End from a retro double-decker bus.

Take a river bus along the River Thames to Greenwich.

Culinary Inclusions:

Sample British fare on a culinary walking adventure through London’s village of Greenwich.

Enjoy dinner in a traditional English pub.

• Tower of London
• Greenwich Culinary Walking Tour

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

Share This Tour

Looking to add your itinerary for friends and family? Share your Itinerary

Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Enjoy a matinee show in London's iconic West End or sit for a traditional afternoon tea at Covent Garden.

Hotel-Doubletree by Hilton Tower of London

Step into the formal world of the British Monarchy when you visit the stately and expansive Windsor Castle. His Majesty King Charles III uses Windsor as both a private home and as a Royal residence where formal duties of state are performed. Windsor’s 1,000 rooms comprise the largest inhabited castle in the world. It dates back to the 1070s, when William the Conqueror built the original wooden structure, now replaced by the grand stone edifices. Explore one of Britain’s most visited historic buildings, its precincts, and the State Apartments, which house a delightful collection of Royal art treasures. Enjoy time for lunch in the quaint town of Windsor before heading back to London. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the castle that houses so much British history and lore is not to be missed!

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Doubletree by Hilton London - Tower of London From $150 per night

Doubletree by Hilton London - Tower of London

Need more information.

We're here to help

Call us toll free at 800.340.5158

Trip reviews.

Live, Unedited, & Independent Traveler Reviews

Filter Reviews: All

Related Blog Content

An alpine adventure with collette, my first guided tour with collette (i’m coming back for more), top 10 phrases to know for your next trip to sicily, get a taste of sicilian street food, the wines of sicily, greece: a foodie’s dream vacation, similar tours.

Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales

London & Paris

Shades of Ireland

Discover Scotland

British Landscapes featuring England, Scotland and Wales

Exploring Scotland & Ireland

Not seeing the date you want? We can help!

Call our Customer Care Team to inquire about dates beyond what's currently listed and to make an advanced reservation. You can find our full terms and conditions here .

Request a Quote

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

Find a Travel Agency

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

View or download.

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

Jump to navigation

• The Gold Classic Tour
• ♥Love London Tour
• Original Tour
• Sunset Tour
• The Classic Tour
• Christmas Lights Tour
• The Classic Gold Tour
• The Family Tour
• ♥ Love London
• Original Bike Tour
• The Sunset Tour
• Adult Group
• City Walking Tour
• School Group
• West Walking Tour
• Destination London
• Trad. Female
• Trad. Small
• Trek Hybrid
• Trek Hybrid Touring
• E.bike male
• E.bike Female
• Carbon Frame
• Boardman Carbon
• Wilier Triestina Carbon Road Bike
• Ridgeback Mountain Bike
• Saracen Mountain Bike
• Female Bicycle with Child Seat (Rear Mounted)
• Male Bicycle with Child Seat (Crossbar Mounted)
• Male Bicycle with Child Seat (Rear Mounted)
• Repair Kits

Repair Shop

• Tour/Hire Centre
• Become an Agent
• Our Core Values
• Bikes on Trains
• Excursion Ideas
• Press reviews
• Local and International Achievements
• Terms/Privacy

The London Bicycle Tour and Hire Company

74 Kennington Road

London SE11 6NL

+44(0)20 7928 6838

WhatsApp Business contact

+44(0)7562 945481

The London Bicycle Repair Shop

Shop 2-3 Benson House Hatfields London,  SE1 8DQ

+44(0)20 7928 6898

Central London  Tours and Hire

April-October: 9:30am - 5:30pm weekdays.

.................... : 9:30am - 6:00pm weekends.

November-March: 9:30am - 4:00pm

Open weekends and public holidays

Closed Christmas day

8am - 7pm Monday to Thursday

8am - 6pm Friday

10am - 4pm Saturday

Closed Sunday and public holidays

Availability

London bicycle tour company.

Come on a guided tour with us and you will find centuries of history and a story around every corner.

Come to us, and rent a bike from the largest privately owned fleet in London. Discover our new range of touring bike from S to XL sizes to fit us all.

Special Offers

This year again the London Bicycle Tour Company proudly supports the WNBR in London

First New Year resolution on the checklist. Hire a bike or Go on tour using our New Year's GIFT. Before...

Enjoy the excitement of a bike tour in London just for your group with an experienced and dedicated tour guides for...

After enjoying a lovely life with our customer, our hybrid bikes are looking for a new home.

• View special offer 1
• View special offer 2
• View special offer 3
• View special offer 4

Get your bike fixed at our repair shop.

Open also on Saturdays!

Latest News

Corrine is our not so brand new guide, who will be leading tours in English, Dutch, and French!

Super Tour mit tollem Guide.👍

Wir haben eine geführte Fahrradtour mit Nany gemacht. Er hat das alles sehr professionell und verantwortungsbewusst geleitet. Wir waren begeistert von seiner Umsicht,seinem Humor und wir er uns alle wichtigen Highlights erklärt hat.Super Tour mit tollem Guide.👍

Fantastic Tour with Ollie!

Fantastic Tour with Ollie! He kept us safe as we had fellow bikers with young children as we toured a very busy London evening! We loved the music and the Information. Thank you, Ollie!

Little bit of everything London has to offer!

What a fun and great bike tour of London! Our tour guide was Chris, who was witty and charming, excellent sense of humor as we laughed all about London. I would take another bike tour in a minute, we felt safe and really enjoyed the sites. A great way to see a little bit of everything London has to offer. Thank ya 😉

Amazing tour for beautiful views and secret spots

This was a great tour including parts of London we wouldn't have discovered on our own. We rode over the tower bridge, saw the financial district, a Victorian era covered market, borough market, quiet canals, a tunnel covered in murals/street art, and stopped at spots with amazing views for photos. Loved it!

Cycling inside central London was amazing.

The Original Bike Tour with Connor was very fun and informative

The Original Bike Tour with Connor was very fun and informative. We saw beautiful views and hidden spots that we would have never found on our own. Thank you!

Nani is a great guide

Nani is a great guide, knows everything, is cheerful even with the weather we had, not only tells the facts but also some jokes so that it doesn't get boring, highly recommended

An incredible adventure! The guide Oli was the best we could have asked! I will recommend my all my friends and my family.

Ondanks de regen was het toch een hele leuke belevenis

Ondanks de regen was het toch een hele leuke belevenis. De gids, Olly, vertelde veel in een soort combinatie van spoken word en rap en de nodige humor.

Great tour with a great guide

We did a tour with Arno and it was fantastic! Arno knew a lot and timed it all really well. We had a great time! I would really recommend it.

Recent posts

• London & Partners
• London Cycling Campaign
• Cycle Cities

The Top Travel Company For London Trips Revealed

• Last updated May 10, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure to the enchanting city of London? Look no further, as we have uncovered the top travel company that will help you create unforgettable memories in this historic and vibrant destination. Whether you're a history buff eager to explore the iconic landmarks or a foodie in search of gourmet delights, this travel company has you covered. Join us as we reveal the ultimate guide to planning your London trip with the best in the business. Get ready to be swept off your feet and discover the magic of London like never before.

What You'll Learn

Top london travel companies: exploring reliable options for your trip, london trip planners: finding the best travel companies for a memorable visit, must-try london travel agencies: making the most of your trip to the uk, choosing a london travel company: tips for an unforgettable experience.

London, the capital city of England, is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers a wealth of attractions and experiences for all types of travelers. From iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, to world-class museums, trendy neighborhoods, and diverse dining options, there is something for everyone in this bustling metropolis.

If you are planning a trip to London and want to make the most of your time in this fabulous city, considering a travel company to help you plan your itinerary and take care of all the logistics can be a wise decision. Not only can they provide you with expert advice and insider tips, but they can also help you save time and ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip. With that in mind, let's explore some of the top London travel companies that you can consider for your next adventure.

Kensington Tours:

Kensington Tours is a luxury travel company that offers customized tours and itineraries to London and other destinations around the world. They have a team of destination experts who can tailor your trip based on your interests and preferences, ensuring that you get a personalized experience. Whether you are looking for a historical tour, a food and drink focused itinerary, or a family-friendly vacation, Kensington Tours can create a trip that suits your needs.

Intrepid Travel:

Intrepid Travel is a reputable travel company that offers small group tours to various destinations, including London. Their trips are designed for travelers who want to experience the destination like a local, with a focus on immersive experiences and sustainable travel practices. With Intrepid Travel, you can explore the diverse neighborhoods of London, try local cuisine, and unearth hidden gems with the guidance of knowledgeable local leaders.

Trafalgar is a well-established travel company that specializes in guided vacations. They offer a range of tours to London that cater to different travel styles and preferences. Whether you prefer a leisurely-paced tour, an adventure-packed itinerary, or a themed trip such as a Harry Potter tour or a royal-themed excursion, Trafalgar has options to suit your needs.

Viator is a leading online marketplace for tours and activities, offering a wide range of options for travelers visiting London. Through their platform, you can book guided tours, day trips, and attractions tickets, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. Viator works with trusted local operators, ensuring that you have a reliable and enjoyable experience.

Evaneos is a travel company that connects travelers with local agents who can help them plan and book their trips. They offer custom itineraries for London, allowing you to get off the beaten path and discover hidden treasures with the guidance of a local expert. With Evaneos, you have the flexibility to design your trip according to your own interests and preferences.

When choosing a travel company for your London trip, it is important to consider factors such as reputation, expertise, and customer reviews. Additionally, consider the type of experience you are looking for, whether it is a fully organized tour or a more independent approach. By selecting a reliable and reputable travel company, you can ensure that your trip to London is memorable and hassle-free. So start planning your adventure and get ready to explore one of the most vibrant cities in the world with the help of a trusted travel company.

Top Destinations You Can Travel to with a UAE Residence Visa

You may want to see also

Planning a trip to London can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. With so many attractions, historic sites, and cultural hotspots to explore, it can be difficult to know where to begin. That's where travel companies specializing in London trips come in. These professionals can help you navigate the city, suggest the best places to visit, and handle all the logistics, ensuring that you have a memorable and stress-free experience. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best travel company for your London adventure? Here are some tips to help you find the perfect match.

Research and compare travel companies:

Start by doing some research online to find a list of travel companies that specialize in London trips. Look for companies with good reputations and positive reviews from previous customers. Take note of the services they offer and compare them to your travel needs and preferences. Some companies may specialize in guided tours, while others may focus on customizable itineraries. Consider what type of experience you want and choose a company that aligns with your interests.

Check for experience and expertise:

London is a vast city with a rich history and diverse culture. It's important to choose a travel company that has a deep understanding of the city and its offerings. Look for companies that have been operating for a while and have a team of experienced professionals who can provide expert guidance. Ask about their knowledge of popular attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. An experienced travel company will be able to curate a unique itinerary that suits your interests and ensures you get the most out of your visit.

Consider the level of personalization:

Some travelers prefer a guided tour with a set itinerary, while others prefer a more flexible approach. Determine how much personalization you want for your trip and choose a travel company that can accommodate your preferences. If you have specific attractions or activities in mind, make sure the company can include them in your itinerary. On the other hand, if you prefer a more spontaneous experience, look for a company that offers flexibility and the option to customize your trip on the go.

Evaluate customer service and support:

A reliable travel company should provide excellent customer service and support throughout the planning and execution of your trip. Look for companies that are responsive to inquiries and provide clear information about their services. Consider reading reviews from previous customers to get an idea of what to expect in terms of customer care. A good travel company will be readily available to address any concerns or questions you may have before, during, or after your trip.

Compare prices and inclusions:

While price shouldn't be the only determining factor, it's important to compare the prices and inclusions offered by different travel companies. Some companies may offer all-inclusive packages that cover flights, accommodation, and activities, while others may provide a more basic service. Consider your budget and what you value the most in a travel package. Remember that the cheapest option may not always provide the best value, so it's worth evaluating the overall package and the reputation of the company before making a decision.

By following these tips, you can find the best travel company for your London trip and ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or an art enthusiast, there's a travel company out there that can cater to your interests and help you make the most of your time in this incredible city. So start your research, ask for recommendations, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable London adventure!

Why You Need a Travel Visa to Enter South Korea

London is a city that never fails to fascinate travelers from around the world. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination. However, planning a trip to London can be overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city. That's where travel agencies come in. These experts can help you make the most of your trip and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. If you're looking to explore London, here are some must-try travel agencies to consider:

London Tailored Tours:

If you're looking for a personalized tour of London, then London Tailored Tours is the agency for you. They offer customized itineraries that are tailored to your interests and preferences. Whether you want to visit famous landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace or explore hidden gems off the beaten path, their knowledgeable guides will ensure you see the best of what London has to offer. From private chauffeurs to skip-the-line entrance to attractions, London Tailored Tours will make your trip a truly memorable experience.

Evan Evans Tours:

Evan Evans Tours is one of the oldest and most renowned travel agencies in London. With over 90 years of experience, they offer a wide range of tours and excursions to suit every traveler's needs. From day trips to iconic attractions like Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath, to immersive experiences like the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter, Evan Evans Tours has something for everyone. Their knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport ensure a hassle-free and insightful journey.

Golden Tours:

Golden Tours is another popular choice for exploring London and its surroundings. They offer a variety of sightseeing tours, including hop-on hop-off bus tours, river cruises, and day trips to destinations like Oxford, Cambridge, and Stratford-upon-Avon. What sets Golden Tours apart is their extensive range of themed tours, such as Harry Potter tours, Jack the Ripper tours, and Beatles tours. These specialized tours provide a unique and immersive way to discover the city's history and culture.

City Wonders:

City Wonders is a travel agency known for its small group tours and expert guides. Their carefully crafted itineraries ensure an in-depth exploration of London's top attractions. Whether you want to see the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, admire the masterpieces at the British Museum, or take in the view from the London Eye, City Wonders will provide a captivating and informative experience. With their small group sizes, you'll have ample opportunity to ask questions and interact with the guide.

Anderson Tours:

Anderson Tours offers a variety of day trips and extended tours from London. From visits to the picturesque university towns of Oxford and Cambridge to excursions to iconic landmarks like Stonehenge and the Cotswolds, their tours showcase the best of England's countryside. Anderson Tours also offers multi-day trips to destinations such as Cornwall, the Lake District, and the Scottish Highlands, allowing you to explore more of the UK while based in London.

When planning your trip to London, consider reaching out to one of these reputable travel agencies. Their expertise and local knowledge will help you make the most of your time in the city, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer a personalized tour, a themed excursion, or a small group adventure, these agencies have you covered. So, start planning your London trip today and get ready for an incredible journey through one of the world's most captivating cities.

Ensuring Safe Travel to China: Tips and Guidelines to Consider

Are you planning a trip to London? If so, you may be wondering which travel company to choose. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide. However, choosing the right travel company is essential to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience in the capital of the United Kingdom. To help you with your decision, here are some tips to consider when selecting a London travel company.

• Research the Reputation: Before making any bookings, it's crucial to research the reputation of the travel company. Look for online reviews and testimonials from previous customers. Check if the company has received any awards or recognition for their services. A reputable company will have positive feedback and a track record of delivering exceptional experiences.
• Consider the Expertise: London is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions and hidden gems. Choose a travel company that specializes in London tours and has in-depth knowledge about the city. An experienced company will have well-curated itineraries, knowledgeable guides, and insider tips that will enhance your trip and ensure that you make the most of your time in the city.
• Check the Variety of Tours: Different travelers have different interests and preferences. Look for a travel company that offers a variety of tours catering to different types of travelers. Whether you're interested in historical sites, cultural landmarks, food tours, or off-the-beaten-path experiences, ensure that the company offers tours that align with your interests.
• Evaluate the Quality of Guides: A knowledgeable and friendly guide can make a huge difference in your travel experience. A good travel company will employ experienced and certified guides who can provide informative commentary, answer your questions, and make your tour enjoyable. Look for a company that emphasizes the quality of their guides and provides training and support to ensure they deliver exceptional service.
• Consider Group Size: Consider the group size for the tours offered by the travel company. Some companies specialize in small group tours, which offer a more intimate and personalized experience. Small group tours allow for better interaction with the guide, easier navigation through crowded areas, and a better chance to connect with other travelers. If you prefer a more intimate experience, look for a travel company that focuses on small group tours.
• Check for Flexibility: Flexibility is essential when traveling, as it allows you to customize your experience according to your preferences. Check if the travel company offers customized itineraries, private tours, or the option to join different tours on different days. This will give you the freedom to explore London at your own pace and tailor your trip to your specific interests.
• Compare Prices: While price should not be the sole factor in your decision-making process, it's important to consider the value for money. Compare the prices of different travel companies and check what's included in the package. Look for companies that offer transparent pricing and clearly outline what is covered in the tour cost. Quality and service should be prioritized over price, but it's always good to ensure you're getting a fair deal.

Choosing the right travel company for your London trip can make all the difference in creating a memorable and enjoyable experience. By considering these tips and doing thorough research, you can find a travel company that suits your needs and ensures an unforgettable visit to the iconic city of London. Happy travels!

Exploring Turkey with a Schengen Visa: All You Need to Know

Frequently asked questions.

There are several travel companies that offer London trips, including but not limited to Expedia, TripAdvisor, Trafalgar, and Contiki.

The best travel company for London trips may vary based on personal preferences and budget. However, popular options include Expedia, which offers a variety of customizable packages, and Trafalgar, known for its guided tours.

Yes, there are travel companies that specialize in London trips, such as London Perfect and London Magical Tours. These companies focus specifically on providing comprehensive experiences and guided tours in and around London.

Yes, many local travel agencies have partnerships with major travel companies and can help you book a London trip. It's worth checking with your local agency to see what options they can offer.

• Duke Trotter Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

• Karli Trujillo Author Editor Reviewer

It is awesome. Thank you for your feedback!

We are sorry. Plesae let us know what went wrong?

We will update our content. Thank you for your feedback!

Leave a comment

Travel photos, related posts.

Breaking Down Surly Traveler's Checks: A Step-by-Step Guide to Unlocking Their Value

• May 11, 2024

The Efficacy of Travel-Sized Makeup: Do We Really Need It?

Planning Your Trip: When to Apply for an IK Visa Before Travel

• May 08, 2024

Exploring International Travel Options with No Credit Check: T-Mobile Takes You There

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Accommodation for Solo Travelers in Paris

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling London: A Comprehensive Tour Guide

• May 10, 2024

Awesome, you're subscribed!

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

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?

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.

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

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

London’s 5 most epic cycle routes have been crowned

Explore the city on two wheels with these five bike adventures, which have been curated by a bike hire company

Every two-wheeled Londoner has their fave cycle route around the city. Whether you like leisurely rides with wind in your hair or getting all geared up in outrageous lycra, this city has a huge variety of places to speed around by bike. You can find Time Out’s favourite London cycle routes here . 

If you’re on the hunt for even more spectacular cycle routes in the capital, we’ve now got just the thing. B ike hire company Swapfiets has put together a list some of the most epic London bike ride routes, ready-made for spring 2024 with approximate distances and times. 

Without further ado, let’s get into them. Here are Swapfiets’ five most epic London cycle routes right now. 

1. Holborn to Primrose Hill 

Total distance: 5.2 miles 

Time: 39 mins 

This route will take you through King’s Cross and into Coal Drops Yard, then along the Regent’s Canal to Primrose Hill – where you can pedal to the top, chill in the park and enjoy views of the city. 

2. Shoreditch to Walthamstow 

Total distance: 5.9 miles

Time: 32 mins 

Fancy getting some flowers for your small, overpriced London flat on a Sunday? This route takes you through Columbia Road where you can do some shopping, so long as you get off your bike and wheel it for a bit. The next part of this route takes you past Hackney City Farm and through London Fields before ending in Walthamstow. 

3. Hackney to Highgate Cemetery   

Time: 33 mins 

If you’re looking for a break from the city roads and some much needed interaction with nature, this may be the route for you. Starting at Hackney Central, make your way through Hackney Downs cross Shacklewell and into Clissold Park. Perhaps stop off for a coffee and soak in the sun. Once back on the bike, go through Finsbury Park and  make your way north to Highgate Cemetery for a peek at some gothic architecture and terrific tombstones. 

4. Balham to Telegraph Hill   

Total distance: 7.3 miles

Time: 45 mins

Starting in Balham , head through Dulwich Park and onto Peckham before pushing onto Telegraph Hill. Once there take a well earned rest in the park, perhaps timing it for sunset views of the city. 

5. Barking to Lancaster Gate - Tour de London 

Total distance: 14.9 miles 

Time: 1 hour and 15 mins

Now, this route is quite a bit longer – but it’s worth it for all the London landmarks you can tick off in one day, including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and the Thames. Making the most of C3, the longest of all cycleways in London, this is a great route for taking in the city. 

Did you see that London is officially getting this massive, futuristic new neighbourhood on the Thames

Plus: Jamie xx has announced a 10-night residency at a tiny London club

Stay in the loop: sign up to our  free Time Out London newsletter  for the best of the city, straight to your inbox

• Caitlin Maskell Contributing writer

Share the story

An email you’ll actually love

Popular on Time Out

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

Money blog: Traitors winner Harry Clark reveals what he's spent his £95,000 winnings on so far

The police are "not interested" in handling shoplifting, the chair of M&S has said. And a new trend is hitting Michelin starred restaurants: "fast food". Read this and more in the Money blog - and leave a comment or your money problem in the box below.

Tuesday 14 May 2024 12:18, UK

• Strong wage growth shrinks hope of interest rate cut
• The rise of Michelin starred 'fast food'
• Traitors winner reveals what he's spent his prize money on so far  
• Gen Z would rather deliver parcels than work in restaurants, Michel Roux Jr claims

Essential reads

• What is PIP - and what could government changes mean?
• How to make sure your car passes its MOT
• 'Loud budgeting': The money-saving trend that has nothing to do with giving up your daily coffee
• Money Problem: My workplace is bringing in new clock-in system to pay us by the minute - is this allowed?
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

The Traitors' winner Harry Clark has revealed he's only spent some of his prize money so far, and it's gone towards clearing his relative's debts. 

The 23-year-old won £95,150 after successfully convincing his fellow contestants that he was a faithful in the second season of the show. 

Speaking on the TV BAFTAs red carpet, the former British Army engineer said his dad has stopped him from spending the cash and has been looking after him. 

"He's got his head screwed on. He's been making sure I can get my first place," he told reporters.

"I've just given my family some dosh, just to pay off their debts and stuff like that, so they don't have to worry anymore. 

"That's all I've wanted to do in my life." 

Police are no longer interested in dealing with shoplifting and retailers are being forced to spend "a lot of money" on protecting themselves, the chairman of M&S has claimed. 

Archie Norman said stores have resorted to installing new camera systems and employing store detectives to try to keep crime rates down. 

"We get very little help from the police," he told LBC's Nick Ferrari at Breakfast.

"I think we have to accept that the police are not interested in this sort of crime any more. Whether we like it or not, that's the way it has gone." 

Shoplifting is at the highest levels since records began in 2003, according to the Office for National Statistics. 

It has risen by 37% since last year.

Mr Norman said thefts had surged since the pandemic, and the rising cost of living crisis was also causing problems. 

"When people are hard up, or particularly when there's a growth in other forms of crime, particularly drugs-related crime, then one way of financing it is to go and steal from shops… it's understandable given what we've been through in the last couple of years, we've seen more of that," he added.

A change to the law in 2014 now means shoplifting goods worth less than £200 is only a summary offence. 

This may have prompted police to pay less attention to it, and it has been on the rise since.

Home Office data also show the number of shoplifting charges has fallen in recent years. 

Taking further action wasn't considered to be "in the public interest" in most cases. 

Sky News has contacted the Home Office for comment.

By James Sillars , business news reporter 

The prospects for a Bank of England interest rate cut are almost 50/50.

That's according to the latest financial market expectations in reaction to this morning's employment figures.

They showed the pace of wage growth remaining stubbornly high - overshooting the expectations of economists.

Strong wage growth is not what the Bank wants to see, as it fears a surge in consumer spending power driving a new wave of inflation.

There is a further set of wage data before the Bank's next rate-setting meeting on 20 June.

That may not help those seeking a cut in borrowing costs, however, as it will reflect the impact of April's big rise in the National Living Wage.

Away from the interest rate cut speculation, the FTSE 100 has opened flat for a second day.

Currys is among stocks doing well on the wider stock market.

The electricals retailer saw its shares trading almost 8% higher in early deals after it raised its annual profit outlook.

Those of Greggs, however, were down almost 1% despite a leap in sales.

The bakery to fast food chain said its performance was in line with expectations and, as such, it had no impact on its forecasts for the full year.

Wages grew by 6% in the three months to March, excluding bonuses, according to the Office for National Statistics.

This is slightly above economists' expectations - bad news for the Bank of England, which wants to see wage growth fall to help ease inflation as it weighs when to cut 16-year-high interest rates.

The Bank is watching wages closely as it looks to bring inflation back to its 2% target, and cooling earnings growth is seen as being key to paving the way for it to begin cutting rates.

In real terms - taking Consumer Prices Index inflation into account - pay rose 2.4% across the period.

In March alone, that figure was 3% - the highest level of growth since July 2021, when it hit 3.9%.

"Earnings growth in cash terms remains high, with the recent falls in the rate now levelling off while, with inflation falling, real pay growth remains at its highest level in well over two years," said ONS director of economic statistics Liz McKeown.

Meanwhile, unemployment ticked up to 4.3% from January to March, compared to 4.2% in the previous three months, December to February. 

The number of job vacancies remains about pre-pandemic levels, but has been declining for 22 consecutive months, said Ms McKeown.

"With unemployment also increasing, the number of unemployed people per vacancy has continued to rise, approaching levels seen before the onset of COVID-19."

By Jimmy Rice, Money editor

Michelin starred restaurants are supposed to be the antithesis of fast food, a place to enjoy ingredients that have been laboured on for days over several hours. 

But with hospitality struggling like never before due to staff shortages, inflation and changing consumer habits, it seems even those at the top end of the food chain are having to adapt. 

An increasing number of the country's most celebrated restaurants are now promising you a tasting menu in less than an hour. 

One-starred Pavyllon is located in the Four Seasons on Hyde Park, the kind of place you might have seen bustling with pinstriped business lunchers in another decade. But these days it's attracting customers with its "Lunch in 55" menu for £55.50 - four courses for half the price of its regular offering. 

Head chef Benjamin Ferra Y Castell says the industry is having to adapt. 

"Living costs have increased so, understandably, in general people will spend less," he tells the Money blog. "It's important to have a more affordable option at lunch." He says the amount of competition at this end of the market in London means you have to get creative. 

"It's noticeable that more restaurants across London are offering affordable lunch menus, including Michelin starred establishments and across Mayfair."

Castell says half the people now coming in for lunch are choosing the in-and-out option. 

"Four courses served in less than an hour fits in with busy schedules and offers convenience and versatility," he says. 

In the past couple of weeks, the flagship restaurant of Great British Menu winner Adam Handling launched its own speedy lunch. 

Frog by Adam Handling usually charges £195 for a full tasting menu but its new lunch offering has been priced at £100, with a mailing list promotion assuring people they can be out within an hour (though they can stay longer if they wish). 

"People aren't indulging at lunch like they used to and we just had to adapt," Handling told the Money blog. "We understand that things aren't going to go back to the way they were, at least not for a while. 

"Inflation has hit everyone hard and people don't have the luxury of spending time to sit and eat three to four-hour lunches." 

UKHospitality data shows 40% of Britain's restaurants are barely breaking even - but Handling is optimistic that better times are ahead. 

"We're not expecting it [cheaper, speedy lunches] to be a long-lasting trend," he says. "We won't be keeping it forever but, for now, we understand things are difficult at the moment and so, as we always do, we're adapting to our guests needs."

By Jake Levison , news reporter

Basically, PIP (personal independence payment) is a tax-free payment given to people to help with the extra costs caused by long-term ill-health or disability.

There are two parts to it:

• A daily living part - for those who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability
• A mobility part - for people who have difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around

It's possible to meet the criteria for one part or both parts, and payments vary for each.

Who is eligible?

People aged 16 to 64 can get PIP regardless of whether they work if they expect their difficulties to last for at least 12 months from when they started.

Anyone told they may have 12 months or less to live can also apply and may get PIP more quickly.

Those with both physical disability and cognitive or mental health conditions like anxiety can meet the criteria for both types of PIP.

There is no list of medical conditions that qualify you for PIP. Instead, you're assessed on the level of help you need with specific activities.

For the daily living part, you might need help with things like:

• Preparing food
• Eating and drinking
• Managing your medicines or treatments
• Washing and bathing
• Using the toilet
• Dressing and undressing
• Socialising and being around other people
• Talking, listening and understanding.

For the mobility payments, it's things like:

• Working out a route and following it
• Physically moving around
• Leaving your home

How does the government make its decisions?

The Department for Work and Pensions carries out an assessment to work out the level of help a person should receive.

A person's needs are judged through a points system, wherein the more severe the impact in a particular area and the more help required, the more points a person gets and the more money they receive.

The answers are assessed by health professionals, who then provide a report for DWP case managers with recommendations on what to give the applicant, if anything.

Applicants can provide assessors with additional medical evidence as part of a claim, but it's not a requirement, as a person's self-assessment about the impact their condition is prioritised when making a decision.

What does the government want to change?

It is looking at changing PIP in a number of ways, potentially affecting those who are eligible for it and the type of help those who are granted it will get. Below we summarise the key points in the consultation:

Different assessment model

The government is looking at introducing an assessment model based entirely or partly on the diagnosis given to an individual.

It says it is considering whether "evidence of a clinical diagnosis made by a healthcare professional could provide a more objective assessment of need" than a self-assessment.

Eligibility reform

This is an alternative to changing the assessment model.

The government says it may keep the current assessment, but change the questions so that they are less repetitive and to "ensure they are working as intended".

The government is also considering looking at changing the length someone needs to have been suffering for due to their disability before they become eligible for PIP, because "we know many people who have short-term illnesses can make a full recovery".

It has not specified the length of time this would change to. As it stands, people have to show that the negative effects of their condition have been present for three months before applying and that they are likely to last for another nine months after PIP is first given to them.

Changes to payments

In the current system, PIP claimants are given monthly cash payments which they can use as they see fit, whether that be things like aids and mobility devices, covering increased energy costs due to special equipment or paying higher premiums due to their condition.

The government says claimants often use the money for common household costs or some "view their PIP award as compensation for being disabled rather than as an award for extra costs".

With this in mind, the government is considering the following alternatives to cash transfer:

• Catalogue/shop scheme - where there would be an approved list of items from which disabled people could choose items at reduced or no cost
• Voucher scheme - where disabled people could receive vouchers to contribute towards specific costs
• Receipt-based system - where claimants buy approved aid, appliances or services for themselves and then provide proof of purchase to claim a contribution from the government
• One-off grants - a contribution to specific, significant costs such as for home adaptations or expensive equipment.

Why does the government say it wants to change PIP?

It says PIP caseloads and costs are "spiralling" as there are now 2.6 million people of working age claiming it.

There are 33,000 new awards for PIP each month, which it says is more than double the rate before the pandemic.

In its proposal, the government adds: "This is expected to cost the taxpayer £28bn a year by 2028/29 - a 110% increase in spending since 2019.

"This is in part fuelled by the rise in people receiving PIP for mental-health conditions such as mixed anxiety and depressive disorders, with monthly awards doubling from 2,200 to 5,300 a month since 2019."

It says its main three priorities through making changes are:

• Providing the right support to the people who need it most
• Targeting our resources most effectively
• Supporting disabled people and those with long-term health conditions to live independently and reach their full potential.

Announcing the consultation on 29 April, Mel Stride, the work and pensions secretary, told the Commons: "This government's priority is to make sure that our welfare system is fair and compassionate. Fair on the taxpayer, by ensuring that people of working age who can work, do work, and fair on those who are in most need of the state's help."

What do critics say?

Some believe the proposed changes are going to target people with mental health problems and stop them getting PIP, and they have not been encouraged by the fact the government has not specified which conditions would be eligible for PIP under reforms.

Mr Stride suggested to the Times that people with "milder mental health conditions" would no longer receive financial support, adding talking therapies, social care packages and respite care could be used as alternatives.

James Taylor, the executive director of strategy at disability equality charity Scope, called for an end to the "reckless assault" on disabled people and to fix the "real underlying issues".

"It's hard to have any faith that this consultation is about anything other than cutting the benefits bill, no matter the impact," Mr Taylor said.

The Disability Benefits Consortium (DBC) branded the consultation "cynical and cruel".

Speaking on behalf of DBC, Ceri Smith head of policy at the MS Society, said: "If the government truly wants a 'stronger, healthier and fairer society', they should start by addressing NHS waiting lists and fixing social care. Instead, this approach will punish disabled people and push even more into poverty."

How can you have your say?

You can view the consultation, which is open until 23 July,  here .

Once you have read it, you can respond online  via the government's form  or by emailing [email protected]

Read other entries in our Basically... series:

Young homebuyers are being forced to gamble with their retirement prospects by taking on ultra-long mortgages, according to a former pensions minister.

Sir Steve Webb described data - supplied by the Financial Conduct Authority to the Bank of England - as "shocking".

It suggests that more than one million new mortgages have been issued over the past three years with end dates beyond the state pension age.

The ex-Liberal Democrat MP, who is now a partner at the consultancy firm LCP, voiced fears that borrowers could be forced to raid their pension savings to clear their mortgage in a worst-case scenario.

Sir Steve saw the potential for harm in any case, as longer-term mortgages deprive people of a period running up to retirement when they could be mortgage-free and boosting their pension.

What does the data say? 

• 42% of new mortgages in the fourth quarter of 2023 - or 91,394 - had terms going beyond the state pension age;
• In the final quarter of last year, people aged 30 to 39 accounted for 30,943 new mortgages lasting beyond state pension age;
• People aged 40 to 49 accounted for 32,305;
• Under-30s made up 3,676 of these mortgages;
• People aged 50 to 59 accounted for 18,854, and there were 661 who were over 70.

Mortgage rates have been rising since the end of 2021 when the Bank of England began action to tackle rising inflation.

Taking home loans with longer maturity dates tends to be more attractive when interest rates are high, as monthly repayments are lower.

You can read more on this story below...

Waitrose has become the only supermarket to receive a royal warrant from the King. 

The recognition means the company has regularly provided the royal household with products for at least five years. 

It also means it can use the King's coat of arms on packaging, as part of advertising or on any stationary it creates. 

Waitrose was first granted a royal warrant in 1928 for supplying King George V with groceries and cleaning materials.

"We are honoured and proud that His Majesty has granted us his warrant," James Bailey, executive director of Waitrose, said. 

"It means the world to all of us, and our farmers and suppliers. There couldn’t be a more powerful symbol of our commitment to service and quality, and our determination to have the highest environmental and animal welfare standards." 

Waitrose was previously granted a royal warrant by the late Queen in 2002 and the King when he was Prince of Wales in 2010.

The Queen has also granted her first royal warrants, picking seven companies, including luxury department store Fortnum & Mason and the florist that supplied her coronation flowers, Shane Connolly & Company. 

The royal nod could be bad news for customers, however, with a brand finance expert telling Sky News that having a royal warrant allows firms to charge a price premium.

David Haigh said his company's research estimated this to be "between 10% and 25%".

A royal warrant says a company or a product is luxurious, high quality and sustainable, he explained. 

He estimates the scheme is "worth billions to UK companies and… therefore it's a very high value to the UK economy".

"And one of the reasons for that is that a lot of foreign tourists and buyers have a preference for royal warrant holder products. We found that 100% of Chinese buyers would pay in excess of 10% for a royal warrant holder product."

Read more on the Queen's choices here :

Gordon Ramsay's restaurants tripled losses to £3.4m last year, as the chef warned businesses in the industry were facing a "challenging" climate. 

The chef's group spent millions opening five new restaurants in 2023, including a Lucky Cat in Manchester, a Bread Street Kitchen in Battersea Power Station and a Street Pizza in Edinburgh. 

Sales at his wide-ranging establishments rose, however, by 21% to £95.6m in the year to August, according to The Telegraph. 

"It's been a really hard-fought year, but at the same time an exciting year, and in tough times it amazes me how strong and vibrant our industry is," Ramsay told the news outlet. 

"It's challenging out there and businesses are battling to stay afloat, rising costs, rent and food costs, multiple strikes. It's a battle" 

He was optimistic, however, saying there hasn't been "so much passion and vibrancy" in the industry since he opened his first restaurant in 1998.

"We've still got something wonderful to celebrate, and I truly believe the industry has never been so exciting."

Once the UK's favourite alcoholic beverage, beer's popularity seems to be fading among the younger drinking generation... 

In fact, only 30% of people aged 18 to 24 ever drink it, according to a study commissioned by the Society of Independent Brewers. 

Instead, younger drinkers say they prefer drinking spirits, wine and cider. 

Pub visits appear to be suffering as well, with almost a quarter of the 2,000 people surveyed saying they have never visited their local. 

SIBA's 2024 Craft Beer Report paints a more positive picture for small and independent brewers, however, with more than 55% of beer consumers saying they now drink "local craft beer". 

It also found average beer production volumes among independent breweries has risen by 14% since last year - a return to pre-pandemic levels for the first time in 4 years. 

"Demand for local, independently brewed beer in the UK is strong, with independent brewers reporting production volumes up by 14%, meaning they have returned to 2019 volumes again," Andy Slee, SIBA's chief executive, said. 

But, he said, it's time for "cautious optimism" only, with the industry still plagued with a number of issues. 

"The short-term issue for small independent breweries isn't demand; it's profitability, rising costs and financial pressures such as lingering COVID debt," he said. 

"Far too many breweries are simply trying to survive rather than thrive, so while there are many positives signs highlighted in the report, for now it's cautious optimism."

Earlier this year, our Money reporter Emily Mee explored whether the UK's big night out culture was dying out. 

Nightlife experts warned we're losing one club every two days at the moment - and if we stay on this trajectory, we will have none left by 2030.

You can read more about her findings here...

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Best Ways to Visit Bath from London and beyond!

Lillian Cespedes Gonzalez Last Updated: May 14, 2024

Over 6 million people come to visit Bath every year as part of their UK trips. Need some tips to get you through yours? Don’t worry, we got you covered! In this guide, we will give you a run down of all the information you need to have the best visit to Bath . This includ es information about tours and key sights you don’t want to miss.

The Best Ways To Visit Bath

• Book tickets for attractions in advance to secure your spot and avoid scheduling issues.
• Explore Bath’s iconic spots with a guided tour for an unforgettable experience. Here are our top tours for the area .
• Plan at least 2 hours to wander around the city center and soak up its must-see sights and allocate 5 to 6 hours for a full exploration of Bath’s tourist attractions.
• Dive into Bath’s rich history by reading up on Georgian architecture, Jane Austen, and the Roman baths before your visit.
• Bookmark this guide for easy access during your trip to Bath.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best London tours to take and why .

How Long To Spend in Bath?

Short answer : For a quick visit, spend 2 hours exploring the city center, but plan for 5 to 6 hours for a thorough exploration.

Well, it all boils down to your schedule and how much time you’ve got to spare on your travels. If you’re just passing through or on a tight schedule, you can soak up the city’s charm and main attractions in a speedy 2-hour.

While you could spend ages exploring every corner of Bath (and who could blame you?), a single full day should be plenty. Shoot for around 6 to 8 hours of solid exploring, with breaks for snacks and a breather, of course.

How To Get To Bath

Getting to Bath is relatively easy since its on one of the main motorways that connects the south of England, and has good connections via trains and buses. However, don’t underestimate the travel time—it’s a busy route, especially during peak hours, with frequent commuter traffic. If you’re relying on public transport, expect potential changes between trains or buses.

Getting to Bath from London

For those opting for a bus journey, hop on the 403 National Express coach departing from London Victoria Coach Station bound for Bath Spa Station. If you fly into London, it takes around 3 to 3.5 hours to drive to Bath via the M25. A train journey from London typically takes over 2 hours, departing from either St Pancras or Paddington Stations with Great Western Rail, and arriving at Bath Spa.

Navigating the UK’s left-side driving can be a bit of a brain-bender. That’s why we’re here to save the day with our fabulous bus tours from London! Let us take the wheel while you relax and enjoy the journey hassle-free. Trust us, it’s the right (or should we say left?) move to make your UK adventure a breeze!

Getting to Bath from Southampton and Bristol

If you’re arriving in the UK on one of the many cruise ships docking on the south coast, the top ports connecting with Bath are Southampton (about 2 hours away) and Bristol (30 minutes by car or 15 by train!).

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our other day trips from London.

10 Things Not to Miss in Bath

• The Roman Baths are the most visited attraction and the main reason the town exist, so this is a must stop.
• Walk around the Royal Crescen t to take in the traditional architecture of the city.
• The J ane Austen Centre will tell you everything you need to know about one of the cities most famous residents.
• Admire the fan vaulting at Bath Abbey, and see the views of the city from the top of the tower.
• Get sucked in the world of Victorian Gothic literature in the immersive experience at Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein.
• Explore the designs of John Wood the Elder at the Circus.
• Get the most picturesque pictures at the Pulteney Bridge.
• Stretch your legs in the greenery of the Royal Victoria Park.
• Settle the sweet tooth score by visiting the Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum   – just remember to also try a bath Bun in any of the traditional bakeries!
• See what takes your fancy around the Green Park Station area; great for shopping and eating, vintage, antiques and much more.

Bath Tour Options

Small group day tour of bath, windsor castle, and stonehenge from london.

Ready to experience the most sought-after historic sites in England in just one unforgettable day? This tour covers it all, taking you from the mesmerizing Stone Circle of Stonehenge to the pristine UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, then on to marvel at the jaw-dropping majesty of Windsor Castle! If you’re looking for a tour that helps you maximize your time in London, you’ll love this history-driven experience!

See tour photos, itinerary, price, and description

Full-Day Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

Is a day trip to Stonehenge from London on your list? How about Bath? If so, did you know you can combine the two on one incredible trip from London? On this full-day tour, you’ll unravel the mysteries of ancient Neolithic stone circles and admire Georgian architecture and historic baths. Our knowledgeable guides will ensure your time is filled with intriguing insights so you can return to London with a bucket list adventure ticked off, superb photos and memories to match.

Windsor, Stonehenge, & Bath Full-Day Tour with Lacock Pub Lunch from London

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath are all must-see destinations while visiting London, but, did you know you can tour all three during one fantastic day out? Leave the planning to the experts on this full-day tour, which whisks you between a royal castle, ancient Roman baths, and magnificent stones shrouded in mystery. Plus, with entry tickets and lunch at a 14th-century pub included, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the region’s beauty.

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Bath

• Bath’s rise to fame began with its Roman settlement, Aquae Sulis, and the legendary Roman baths that turned it into a hot spot for thermal and spa resorts over the centuries.
• Despite Bath not being a prime military target, it endured heavy bombing during World War II because its cultural significance made it a symbolic target for destruction, leading to extensive restoration efforts.
• Bath is renowned for its Georgian architecture, with iconic buildings crafted from the distinctive Bath stone, lending the city its creamy aesthetic.
• Did you know that Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie found refuge in Bath at Fairfield House during his exile from 1936 to 1940? Talk about unexpected royal connections!
• Bath has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987!

Where To Eat in Bath

There are plenty of great places to eat in this town! Check out the list below for some great choices.

The Circus Restaurant :  £££ | Modern Cuisine —If you want to eat in one of the top 20 rated restaurants in the whole country, with beautiful architecture, this is your place.

The Green Rocket: ££  | Plant-based Cafe — an award winning cafe which specialises in vegetarian and vegan food.

The Oven :  ££ | Pizzeria — you can never go wrong with pizza, and this independent, award winning, Neapolitan, wood fire pizzeria has a slice for everyone.

The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party :  ££ | Afternoon tea —if you’re dying to live your best Jane Austen or Bridgerton fantasy, you must stop for afternoon tea at this charming Alice in Wonderland themed tea room.

Find the best places to stay

Where To Stay in London

Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.

About Lillian Cespedes Gonzalez

Dr. Lillian Cespedes Gonzalez is a historian and published author. She specialises in medievalism, the Vikings, popular culture, and cultural identity. She is an educator and has worked at the University of Winchester teaching the Golden Age of Spain as well as working on different research projects.

Her academic work has also taken her to the world of publishing and editorial work. She used to be the director for Revista Medieval and the image editor at the Royal Studies Journal and has contributed to other publications as an ad hoc copyeditor.

She is also de CEO at Travelusion Tours, a tour guiding company that specialises in affordable and accessible guided tours in the UK and Europe. The tours are virtual or face to face.

She is also the host of several podcasts (Nu History, ManaBurnt & Tour Guide Central). Some examples of her published work are:

"Motherhood in Vikings", Vikings and The Vikings: essays on Television's History Channel Series, 2019

"Jessica Jones: Gender and the Marvel Phenomenon", Jessica Jones, Scarred Superhero: Essays on gender, Trauma and Addiction in the Netflix Series, 2018

"Some Reflections on Danes in Wessex Today, pp. 250-262", Danes in Wessex The Scandinavian Impact on Southern England, c.800–c.1100, 2016

Reader Interactions

Leave a comment cancel reply.

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

• Travel Guide
• In The Press

POLICY & TERMS

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

Olivia Rodrigo's GUTS Tour setlist in full for UK tour dates

Get ready to spill your guts - Olivia Rodrigo is back on the road!

Releasing her second studio album, GUTS, last year the American multi-hyphenate is putting on her biggest tour yet, and is coming to the UK later this summer for a series of dates up and down the country, including a four-night residency at London's O2 Arena in May. 

As one would expect, the setlist for the GUTS tour is obviously chock-full of tracks from Olivia's sophomore LP; the tour starts with the kitschy buzz of bad idea right? and ends with the cheerleader chant-call of should-have-been-bigger get him back!

And now we can all enjoy the songs wrapped up in GUTS's deluxe edition live for the first time, including Obsessed - a banger of dizzying proportions, by the way, Katy Perry's I Kissed A Girl by way of Charli XCX's Sucker era . Previously, Obsessed was a secret track hidden on specifc GUTS vinyls fans purchased. Released on to streaming services in March, Obsessed peaked at Number 10 in the UK.

See Olivia Rodrigo's Official Top 20 biggest songs in the UK here

Olivia rodrigo's guts tour setlist in full, 1. bad idea right, 2. ballad of a homeschooled girl, 5. drivers license, 6. teenage dream, 7. pretty isn't pretty, 8. love is embarrassing , 9. making the bed, 10. logical, 11. enough for you, 13. jealousy, jealousy, 14. happier, 15. favorite crime, 16. deja vu, 17. the grudge, 19. obsessed, 20. all-american bitch, 21. good 4 u, 22. get him back, olivia rodrigo's guts tour 2024 - uk & ie tour dates in full, april 30 & may 1 2024 - dubin (3arena), may 3 & 4 2024 - manchester (co-op live), may 7 & 8 2024 - glasgow (ovo hydro), may 10 & 11 - birmingham (utilita arena), may 14 - 18 - london (o2 arena).

Image: Christopher Polk/Billboard via Getty Image

Related artists

OLIVIA RODRIGO

Related Singles and Albums

VAMPIRE OLIVIA RODRIGO

GOOD 4 U OLIVIA RODRIGO

GUTS OLIVIA RODRIGO

DRIVERS LICENSE OLIVIA RODRIGO

Join the conversation by joining the Official Charts community and dropping comment.

Already registered?

No account?