London tours

London is a bustling and diverse city with a rich history and culture. Here are some of the best things to do in London: Visit the British Museum: This world-famous museum houses an incredible collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. Take a ride on the London Eye: This giant Ferris wheel offers incredible views of the city and is a great way to get your bearings. See a show in the West End: London's theatre district is world-renowned, and seeing a show in one of its many theatres is a must-do. Visit Buckingham Palace: The official residence of the British monarch is open to visitors during certain times of the year. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony for a unique experience. Explore the Tower of London: This historic castle has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a fortress. Take a tour to learn about its rich history. Walk across the Tower Bridge: This iconic bridge offers stunning views of the River Thames and is one of the most famous landmarks in London. Visit the Tate Modern: This museum houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko. Take a stroll in Hyde Park: This beautiful park in the heart of the city is a great place to relax, have a picnic, or go for a run. Shop in Oxford Street: This bustling shopping district is home to some of the biggest and best-known stores in London. Try some British cuisine: Be sure to try some traditional British dishes such as fish and chips, bangers and mash in a pub, and afternoon tea. And don't forget that London is an absolute mecca for multi-cultural cuisine. A stop at any food market in the city gives you access to a myriad of food cultures.

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in London; 1) Half Day London Highlights Taxi Tour with a Blue Badge Guide 2) The Tower of London and major London sites in chauffeur driven vehicle 3) Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace 4) Quintessential London: Chauffeured through the capital. 5) Highlights of the British Museum - Half Day Tour

The cost of a private tour in London can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in London typically ranges from around $400 to $1100. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customising a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in London, each highly rated with many excellent 5 star reviews! 1) First Time in London Highlights 2) This is London! 3) London in a Day: A bespoke introduction to London 4) London’s Jewish East End in chauffeur driven vehicle 5) 'Ultimate' Day Tour of London (Full Day Private Tour)

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about London from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. If you have limited time in London and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

London is surrounded by many fantastic destinations that make for great day trips. Here are some options, each offering a unique experience: Windsor: Visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Explore the charming town, take a stroll along the River Thames, and enjoy the lovely surroundings. Oxford: Explore the historic city of Oxford, known for its prestigious university and beautiful architecture. You can visit the Bodleian Library, Christ Church College, and take a leisurely walk around the city. Cambridge: Like Oxford, Cambridge is famous for its university and stunning architecture. Punting on the River Cam is a popular activity, and you can also visit the Fitzwilliam Museum and King's College Chapel. Stonehenge: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Stonehenge is a mysterious and iconic prehistoric monument. Take a day trip to explore its history and significance. Bath: Bath is known for its well-preserved Roman baths, stunning Georgian architecture, and the impressive Bath Abbey. Don't forget to relax in the natural thermal spas at the Thermae Bath Spa. Brighton: Head to the coast and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Brighton. You can visit the Royal Pavilion, stroll along the beach, and explore the quirky lanes with their shops and restaurants. Stratford-upon-Avon: The birthplace of William Shakespeare, this charming town offers a chance to explore his life and visit historic sites like Shakespeare's Birthplace and Anne Hathaway's Cottage. Canterbury: Visit the historic Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the medieval streets of this picturesque town. The Cotswolds: Experience the picturesque charm of the Cotswolds with its quaint villages, rolling hills, and beautiful countryside. Places like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold are worth a visit. Greenwich: Located within London, Greenwich offers a day full of history and culture. Visit the Royal Observatory, the National Maritime Museum, and explore the picturesque Greenwich Park. Hampton Court Palace: This historic palace, located on the outskirts of London, is famous for its beautiful gardens and Tudor architecture. You can explore the palace, gardens, and the famous Hampton Court Maze. Kew Gardens: The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew offer a peaceful retreat with a stunning collection of plants and beautiful landscapes. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, and your choice can depend on your interests and how much time you want to spend travelling. Make sure to check transportation options and opening hours before planning your day trip.

The number of days you should allocate for touring London can vary widely depending on your interests, the pace at which you like to explore, and how in-depth you want to experience the city. Here are some general guidelines: Quick Overview (1-2 Days): If you're short on time and want to see the major highlights, you can cover iconic attractions like the British Museum, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey in a day or two. This will give you a quick taste of London. Classic London (3-4 Days): For a more comprehensive visit, spend three to four days exploring London. This allows you to see the major attractions, enjoy a few museums, take a stroll in the parks, and maybe catch a theatre show or visit some of the less crowded but equally interesting sites. In-Depth Exploration (5-7+ Days): If you're passionate about history, art, culture, or just want to savor the city at a leisurely pace, consider spending five days or more. This allows for deeper exploration, day trips to nearby destinations, and more time to savour the city's diverse neighbourhoods and culinary scene. Special Interests: London has a wealth of specialized interests, such as literary history, theater, shopping, food, and more. If you have a particular passion, you might want to spend extra time to delve into these areas. Remember that London is a vast city with a lot to offer, so you can tailor your visit to your preferences. Make sure to plan your itinerary, taking into account opening hours, any special events or exhibitions, and travel times between locations. Additionally, London's public transportation system, including the Underground (Tube) and buses, makes it relatively easy to get around the city and access its various attractions.

The cost of a 7-day trip to London from the US can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including your departure city in the US, the time of year you're travelling, your travel style, and your personal preferences. Here are some cost considerations to keep in mind: Airfare: The cost of your flight to London will depend on your departure city, the time of booking, and whether you choose economy, premium economy, business class, or first class. As of my last update in September 2021, round-trip flights from major US cities to London could range from $500 to $1,500 or more. Be sure to check the latest prices and deals. Accommodation: Accommodation costs can vary widely depending on the type of lodging you prefer. London offers a range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. On average, you might spend anywhere from $100 to $300 or more per night for a mid-range hotel. Longer stays can sometimes lead to discounts. Food and Dining: Dining costs can vary greatly. You can find affordable food at local pubs and markets, or you can dine at high-end restaurants. On average, plan for around $50-100 per day for meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Transportation: While in London, you may use the London Underground (Tube), buses, and perhaps taxis or ride-sharing services. Consider purchasing an Oyster card or contactless payment for public transport. Transportation costs can vary, but a budget of around $30 per day should cover it. Activities and Entertainment: Entrance fees to museums, attractions, and activities in London can add up. Budget for at least $20-50 per day for these expenses. Some attractions also offer discounts or free admission on certain days. Shopping and Souvenirs: This cost is highly variable and depends on your shopping habits. London is known for its shopping, so it's wise to set a budget if you plan to purchase clothing, gifts, or souvenirs. Miscellaneous Costs: Don't forget to budget for miscellaneous expenses like travel insurance, phone service, and any unforeseen circumstances. In total, a rough estimate for a 7-day trip to London from the US could range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more per person. It's important to note that this is a general estimate, and your actual expenses may be higher or lower based on your choices and preferences. Always research current prices and consider using travel websites or apps to find deals and discounts. Additionally, keep an eye out for any currency exchange fees when converting US dollars to British pounds.

The best time to visit London largely depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. London is a city that can be visited year-round. Here are some factors to consider for each season: Spring (March to May): Spring is a popular time to visit London. The weather is generally mild, and the city's parks and gardens start to bloom with colourful flowers. It's a great time for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and enjoying the city's green spaces. Be prepared for rain, but crowds are usually manageable. Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in London. The weather is usually warm and pleasant, and many outdoor events, festivals, and open-air performances take place. However, expect larger crowds, higher prices, and the possibility of occasional rain showers. Autumn (September to November): Early autumn can be a wonderful time to visit London. The weather is still relatively mild, and the city's parks take on beautiful autumnal colors. It's a less crowded and more budget-friendly alternative to summer. Winter (December to February): London in winter has its own charm, especially around the holiday season. The city is beautifully decorated with lights and festive displays. If you enjoy Christmas markets, ice skating, and cozy indoor activities, this is a great time to visit. Be prepared for colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours and rain. Off-Peak Season: If you want to avoid crowds and get the best deals on accommodations and flights, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (late autumn or early spring) or during the winter months. You'll find London less crowded and more budget-friendly during these times. Special Events: Check London's event calendar for special exhibitions, cultural events, or festivals that align with your interests. Events like the Chelsea Flower Show, Wimbledon, and London Fashion Week might influence your travel dates. Ultimately, the best time to visit London depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience. Keep in mind that the weather in London can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to be prepared for rain at any time of the year. Also, make sure to book accommodations and major attractions in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the high tourist season.