The Tower of London, while an incredibly worthwhile site, can be overwhelming by itself—a situation exacerbated by the throngs that visit every day. For those looking to skip the crowds and get an exclusive early access Tower of London Tour—including a look at the Crown Jewels—we offer a private, early morning visit before the Tower opens to the public. Together, in the company of a historian specializing in English history, we'll learn about kings and queens, political intrigue, and history of this magnificent structure.

• No lines, no crowds
• See the Tower and Crown Jewels just with our docent.
• Early Access Tower of London Tour led by expert historian

Early Access Tower of London Tour

We start the tour at 8AM, 90 minutes before the opening to the public. After a short introduction, we will be met by one of the Yeoman Warder who will open the gates of the Tower for us. On our way to the Jewel House we will learn about the history of this Royal Palace and prison, including how its role has changed through the centuries. Once we've arrived at the Jewel House, we will be greeted by the Duty Exhibitor and be invited through to the Treasury for a private viewing of the Crown Jewels.

For our normal visit to this iconic landmark, see our Tower of London Tour.

Exclusive Access

After this we may be able to visit the cell in which Thomas More was kept for 15 months. This atmospheric cell is accessed only through the Queen's House and is not usually open to the public. The rest of the visit will be designed based on your interests and desire. We may visit the White Tower, the oldest part of the complex, or the Tower Green, site of execution of the likes of Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey. Execution at the Tower was a privilege reserved for those of high rank or for those who had dangerously strong popular support.

Looking for another exclusive London experience? Take a tennis lesson on the same courts used by Henry VIII on a private Hampton Court Tour.

Take Aways

At the end of this tour we will come away having gained a unique and unparalleled experience at the Tower of London, including visiting sections not otherwise open to the public and having seen the Crown Jewels in absolute peace.

Viator Exclusive: Early Access to Stonehenge with a Specialist Guide and Bath and Windsor Visit (11 Hours)Your exclusive tour to Stonehenge, led by a specialist guide, starts with early-morning departure from London so you can beat the crowds at the UNESCO World Heritage site. Following the 2.5-hour drive to the Salisbury Plain, an open plateau in southern England where the protected monoliths are situated, you’ll follow your guide along a perimeter path around the ancient stone circle.
Hear about the speculation of Stonehenge's astronomical significance as you contemplate the transport of the 40-ton bluestone rocks, located in the inner circle.
Following your visit to Stonehenge, continue to Windsor Castle, one of Queen Elizabeth II's official residences. Head inside with your guide and learn about the British Royal Family and the castle’s history as you explore the State Apartments and other public rooms.
Next, travel to to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath. You may choose to visit the Roman Baths — said to be Ancient Rome's best-preserved public baths (own expense). Alternatively, enjoy time at your leisure to explore the city independently. Your day trip then concludes back in central London.
Please note: There’ll be an opportunity to break for lunch (own expense) in Windsor or Bath.
Viator Exclusive: Small-Group London Sightseeing Tour Including Guided British Museum Visit, St Paul's Cathedral and Tower of London (9.5 Hours)On another day of your vacation, meet your guide at Temple Underground Station in London, then board a comfortable minivan and head to St Paul’s Cathedral. On arrival, show your pre-booked ticket or pay your entrance fee (depending on the option selected), and then explore the 17th-century cathedral on an independent, audio-guided tour.
After roughly 1.5 hours, join back up with your guide and continue to by minivan to Trafalgar Square before setting off on foot to Buckingham Palace. See Horse Guards Parade and other royal residences, and then watch the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony on the Mall.
Next, after a break for lunch (own expense) continue to the infamous Tower of London. Opt to join a complimentary tour by one of the Beefeater guards (time permitting), then enjoy time at your leisure to see the Crown Jewels, White Tower, Traitor's Gate and other highlights.
Make your final stop of the day at the British Museum. Your guide will help you navigate more easily around the vast museum and shed light on prestigious exhibits such as the Rosetta Stone. When you're done for the day, simply stroll to the nearest tube stop where you can find your way back to your accommodation.
Viator Exclusives combine unique experiences and great deals — from traditional tours to once-in-a-lifetime experiences — and are not available from other 3rd-party online sellers.

Meet your guide at Temple Underground Station in London, then board a comfortable minivan and head to St Paul’s Cathedral. On arrival, show your pre-booked ticket or pay your entrance fee (depending on the option selected), and then explore the 17th-century cathedral on an independent, audio-guided tour. Take in the skyline from the dome and descend to the crypt to see the tombs of famous British figures like Sir Winston Churchill.

After roughly 1.5 hours, join back up with your guide and continue to the Mall for the Changing of the Guard. Along the way, pass showstopper sights like 10 Downing Street, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and learn more about London's history. Hop out of your minivan in Trafalgar Square and set off on foot to Buckingham Palace. See Horse Guards Parade and other royal residences, then marvel at the pageantry of the world-famous ceremony as you march alongside the guards on the Mall.

Continue by minivan to the Tower of London, a majestic castle first built in the 11th century, stopping off on route for lunch (own expense). On arrival, opt to join a complimentary tour by one of the Beefeater guards to learn more about the tower's role in British history. Then, enjoy time at your leisure to see the Crown Jewels, White Tower, Traitor's Gate and other highlights. Alternatively, if you've not upgraded to include entrance fees, make the most of free time to explore the City of London at your own pace. Perhaps stroll along the banks of the Thames River or visit nearby Tower Bridge (own expense).

Make your final stop of the day at the British Museum, which boast the largest collection of antiquities in the world, spanning two million years. Your guide helps you navigate more easily around the vast museum and sheds light on prestigious exhibits such as the Rosetta Stone. If there's any area of history you're particularly interested in, let your guide know so your visit can be tailored to suit your interests.
When the time comes, stroll to the nearest tube stop and ask for directions on how to get back to your accommodation, if required.
Viator Exclusives combine unique experiences and great deals — from traditional tours to once-in-a-lifetime experiences — and are not available from other 3rd-party online sellers.

Your exclusive tour to Stonehenge, led by a specialist guide, starts with early-morning departure from London so you can beat the crowds at the UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll enjoy better photo ops and still have part of the afternoon to spend as you wish.
During the 2.5-hour drive to the Salisbury Plain, an open plateau in southern England, your well-educated guide explains the fascinating theories about the possible origins and meaning of Stonehenge. You'll make a stop at a cafeteria so you can purchase any food or drinks (own expense) before arriving at the site, where you'll follow your guide along a perimeter path around the protected monoliths. Hear about the speculation of Stonehenge's astronomical significance and other meanings as you contemplate the transport of the 40-ton bluestone rocks, located in the inner circle.

Learn about the artificially designed post-and-lintel sarsen stones, some dating back to the Neolithic Period and Bronze Age. Despite decades of research, the original purpose of Stonehenge is still unclear — you’ll have to experience it to decide for yourself. Your 8-hour tour ends with drop-off in central London.

If you'd like, upgrade your tour to include entrances fees to attractions (see description in Itinerary below). 

Viator Exclusives combine unique experiences and great deals — from traditional tours to once-in-a-lifetime experiences — and are not available from other 3rd-party online sellers.

Your Viator VIP London tour starts at the Tower of London, which you'll enter before the public opening. Meet your guide as well as one of the tower’s Beefeater guards who will personally show you around. The formidable 11th-century tower was built to act as a fortress, palace and prison — terrifying Londoners and foreign invaders alike. Watch the historic opening ceremony, where members of the military escort march around the tower with the Beefeaters to open it for business.

On your tour of the tower, see the Crown Jewels — a dazzling collection of jewels and diamonds that are still used today by the Queen. Stroll along the East Wall Walk for a bird’s-eye view of the city streets, explore the White Tower, and see the ravens that have lived here since the reign of King Charles II. The superstitious king believed the tower would fall if the birds left.

Next, walk to nearby St Paul’s Cathedral, the much-cherished architectural icon that’s home to the Triforium, an area typically closed to the public but open to you! Standout features include the Dean’s Staircase (featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban) and a medieval library. See both, and then marvel at the vertigo-inducing views toward the nave. In addition to the Triforium, visit the Whispering Gallery and Crypt, too. Your experience then finishes here.
Please note: The visit to the Crown Jewels is not guided.

With over 50 highly qualified specialists in art history, urban design, architecture, cuisine, social history, preservation, and other topics related to London, we are well-equipped to design a custom London tour on any variety of topic. Looking for your own private guide in London? This is it.

In a half day or full day, we can design the perfect walk to fit your trip. Here are some example itineraries:

• Full day itinerary to Highclere Castle and Oxfordshire, for a real Downton Abbey experience.
• One or multi-day Tudor focused itinerary, taking us from Greenwich to Hampton Court, Windsor Palace and Hever Castle. (Note: we offer a Greenwich Tour, as well as a Hampton Court Tour.)
• Gardens of England full day, including Sissinghurst, Blenheim Palace, Great Dixter.

Private Guide in London

We can design a wide variety of walks for people with special interests, lasting from 3 hours to 3 days, and starting at GBP 500 per group. Drawing on our network of docents, range of other services, and a growing network in London, the limits of a custom-walk are circumscribed only by the bounds of our collective imagination.

When requesting a custom walk, please provide the following details in the Notes section when adding the walk to your shopping cart:

• How many hours would you like the walk to be?
• What are your main goals for the walk?
• Which sites and museums would you like to prioritize? Do you want to just pass by or explore inside as well?
• Give us one or two words to describe your group.

Once we receive your custom walk request, we'll review these details and follow up with you by email to refine your itinerary and give you final pricing.

Don't worry, we will not be charging your card at this point. Your order will go into our system as pending.

We can arrange car services and special access—like on our Early Access Tower of London Tour—as part of the customization.

You will meet your driver at your central London accommodation. From there, you will be taken in a private vehicle to Stonehenge. You will be assisted with picking up your pre-booked tickets at Stonehenge. You can either take the bus or walk for one mile to the stones. There, you will have a look at the stones circle. Once you have explored the mystery surrounding the stones and the English countryside, you will head back to the visitor centre where you can see the exhibition, do some shopping, or have some tea at the cafe. Your driver will meet you at pre-arranged location to take you back to your accommodation.

The prices are based on number of adults and you will travel in a Sedan, a Minivan, or a Van.

When making a booking, you will need to provide your accommodation address, hotel name, and your preferred pick up time. Please schedule your tour between 1pm and 2pm

You will be collected from your Central London Accommodation, where your driver will meet you. You will be taken in a private vehicle to Windsor Castle. We will be provided with your fast track tickets which allows you to "beat the crowds" to save you the time. Please note that the audio guides are available in different languages.  At Windsor Castle, you can explore The States Apartments, Queen Mary's Doll House, St Georges Chapel, Castle shops, The Royal Collection etc. If you managed to explore the Castle in less than 2 hours, you are welcome to have a stroll around Windsor town. Once you finished your driver will meet you at agreed previously meeting point and take you back to your Central London accommodation.

The prices are based on 1 to 3 adults traveling in a Sedan, 4 to 5 adults traveling in a Minivan, 6 to 8 adults traveling in a Van.

When making a booking, you will need to provide your Central London accommodation Address/ Hotel and your preferred pickup time Between 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Your guide will meet you at a designated central location.
Walk in the footsteps of the rich and powerful. You'll be introduced to the personalities who ruled Great Britain, from Edward the Confessor to Thersea May. You will be taken to see where they lived, worked and played, as well as where many are entombed today.

Start by visiting one of the most well known landmarks in the world, Big Ben and explore the political and social heart of London. Get your camera ready to take pictures of The Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Hear stories of treason, Royal weddings and the political system.

Make your way through one of the most beautiful parks in central London- St James, with its lake and wildlife to keep you entertained. Once you step out of the park you will see Buckingham Palace and St James Palace. Arrive in time for the impressive Changing of The Guard, something no tourist should miss.

Next the tour will make its way to Trafalgar Square where you will see and learn of one of the greatest Naval leaders this country has seen- Admiral Horatio Nelson. At this point there will be time for a short break in an area renowned for street entertainers and world class restaurants and great street food. Possibly head into Soho home to little Italy, and cuisine from around the world. Ask your guide for a suggestion or where the best coffee is found (own expense).

Board one of the famous red London buses (own expense) and pass by the Bankers and lawyers and hop off at the centre of the financial city where St Paul's Cathedral stands.Stroll down the beautiful South bank river passing by William Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, St Paul's Cathedral, The Shard and the greatest food market London has to offer, Borough Market. Here you can treat yourself to great coffee, wine, locally crafted beer or cake (own expense).

Cross the famous London Bridge where there will be a photo opportunity of the most famous bridge in the world, Tower Bridge. Once across, arrive at the 11th century Tower of London where the Crown Jewels are kept and home of the Yeomen Warders or more commonly known as Beefeaters. A place built as a fortress to protect London and England. It is here that the tour will end, your guide will answer any questions and direct you to where you want to go.

Meet your guide at a designated location. Visit Buckingham Palace and St James Palace from the outside whilst you are told the fascinating history of these Palaces. Also stories of Royal scandal.

Then you will visit the political and social heart of the country, with great photo opportunity of Big Ben, Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Be entertained with stories of terror, treason, Royal weddings and Winston Churchill and WWII. Walk past the home of David Cameron and the Horse Guard Parade in to Trafalgar Square home of Admiral Horatio Nelson one of Britain's greatest war leaders.

Walk the cobbled streets of Covent Garden. Stop at a traditional pub that was voted the greatest pub in the United Kingdom where you can have a traditional local beer or cider. Venture on and take in some of the incredible street entertainment and the beautiful Italian pizza the area is known for.

Your tour will end in Soho, an area renowned for its restaurants, cafe culture, entertainment, music with a few suggestions on where to eat.

Around 9.30am is the best time to start the tour. You will be collected either in the reception of your hotel or  at designated central London location. Start the day with an introduction to the city you will be visiting and it's surrounding areas making sure you know where you are and what is in the nearby areas.

You will be taken through the Royal Green Park making your way down to the first palace (Buckingham). Visit the outside of the palace whilst being told the history of the Royal family, what happened to the Palace during WW2, who lives there, has anyone broken in before, what do the servants do have all these questions answered.

Next march on to St James's palace, this is the greatest place to watch the Changing of the Guard. Your guide shall make sure you get the perfect view, great photos and even march a long side the Guards.

After watching this century old tradition stroll through one of the most beautiful parks discovering fauna/flora and wildlife as you make our way to the political and social heart of London. Here you will visit the exteriors of some of the most iconic buildings in the world (Big Ben, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey).

After this great photo stop start making your way towards Trafalgar Square passing by the Winston Churchill War Room, The Horse Guard Parade eventually arriving to where the tour will end, surrounded with lively neighbourhoods with great pubs, restaurants and museums. Your guide will be very happy to give you recommendations for places to eat and to sip a traditional British beer.

Hear the history, and see the all of London’s famous sights from Westminster Abbey to London Bridge with a private, local guide. A flexible start time is available, along with a hotel pick up. If there are specific places of interest you would like to see, such as a location from a favourite London set movie, this can be incorporated into your walk (let us know in advance to be extra sure your request can be accommodated).

Along the tour you will see: The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, Churchill's War Rooms, Parliament Square and Trafalgar Square. You will see the National Gallery, the Sherlock Holmes pub and more.
 

Your tour guide will provide a pithy history of London and walk you through The Mall, St James's Park, and Admiralty Arch, to see Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the royal family, and other aristocratic addresses including St James's Palace, Lancaster House and Clarence House. The walk crosses the Golden Jubilee Bridge, with a panoramic view of London, with views of the National Theatre, the 3500 year old Cleopatra’s Needle, and the quirky new skyscrapers such as the ‘Shard’ and ‘Gherkin’ that have quickly become a symbols of the city.

The walk continues along the South Bank, passing St Paul's Cathedral, the Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe theatre and Southwark Cathedral, to Borough Market and London Bridge. From here there are views of the Tower of London, City Hall and Tower Bridge. London in half a day!

Embark on this 90-minute private walking tour that covers the major London landmarks as discover the world of Harry Potter. Discover the secrets of Westminster Bridge, which members of the Order of the Pheonix flew under,  and take in the stunning views of the Houses of Parliament. See Lambeth Bridge, the site of the eventful Knightbus scene and the aged Ernest Prang's sporadic driving. How do you shrink a human head?

Westminster Station was used by Harry Potter and Mr Weasley in The Order of the Phoenix. Find out how much it costs to film on location. Have your  Ministry of Magic visitor pass at the ready we visit both the staff and public entrances to the Ministry of Magic in Whitehall. 

Pass the possible inspiration for Gringotts Bank before venturing through the atmospheric thoroughfares of Diagon Alley, the Leaky Cauldron and Knockturn Alley. Will you recognise the entrance to Diagon Alley just off Charing Cross Road? Venture up to Shaftesbury Avenue where Hermione apparated herself, Ron and Harry. We end at the Palace Theatre, hosting the play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts One and Two where you bid farewell to your guide.

Oliver Twist has run away from his apprenticeship and is heading to London. He has been on the road for seven days and seven nights. He is cold, tired and hungry. That is when he meets a boy of a similar age, who's a little scruffier than him and a a little shorter but with an air of confidence of that of an adult. This boy is Jack Dawkins, also known as the Artful Dodger. He offers to introduce Oliver to a gentleman who can provide both food and lodgings and not want any rent. And so Oliver Twist follows the Artful Dodger into Victorian London to meet Fagin and his band of thieves and that's where our walk begins!

This walk covers many major themes of Victorian London; transport, child labour, workhouses, entertainment, celebrities of the day, justice system, an underworld of crime, London's first ever suburb, the age of improvement and the industrial revolution using the works of Charles Dickens making it come alive.

Meet your guide at a central location to start your day. Victorian London is often described as a labyrinth or a maze; once you enter it’s hard to get out. Your professional tour guide will help you master the back alleys, away from the wide shopping street you can easily imagine the characters who lived and worked in the area. 

You will explore some of the beautifully maintained Victorian gardens, discover their hidden secrets before venturing through some residential streets, once the homes for artists Samuel Clarkson and William Etty and workplaces for literature giants Rudyard Kipling and Charles Dickens.  You will stand where the Thames used to dominate, take in the messy madness of one of the most famous London markets and count the fair maidens on the way.

The bloody past of the City of London will be explored during this 90-minute walking tour, departing from St. Paul's Underground Station. This private tour begins at the time of your preference, between 8am and 8pm. Beginning with the Black Death in 1348, this tour will explore fascinating moments in the city's history from the Great Fire of London to the Blitz. 

Led by a professional guide, this tour will include stories behind famous names from history including Bloody Mary and Henry VIII. Many of London's famous landmarks will be seen, including St. Paul's Cathedral, Greyfriars Church, St. Sepulchre church, and St. Bartholomew's Henry VIII gate. A moderate amount of walking is required.

Meet your guide at a central location to start your day. On this Royal London walking tour you will see: Charing Cross - starting the tour in the year 1280 we explore what the area would have been like during the reign of Edward I. Georgian Trafalgar Square - understand the use of the area before Trafalgar Square and how the aristocracy were able to display their sportsmanship during rare times of peace.

Edwardian Admiralty Arch - we explore how Edward VII, the son of Queen Victoria made his mark on one of London's streets most iconic streets. St James's Park - the smallest of the Royal Parks, this park was once guarded by the Horse Guards. We find out why.

Buckingham Palace - we discuss not only the monarchs who have called this famous palace home but look to its origins. St James's Palace - a Tudor delight - uncover how this palace began as a hospital and for one monarch became his prison.

Carlton Terrace - opulence and grandeur we peel away the layers to understand the Prince Regent.Lancaster House - used as the interior of Buckingham Palace for the film The King's Speech and TV drama Downton Abbey.

Marlborough House - nearly 300 years old, this Royal Palace has been the home to five Dukes and Duchesses. Clarence House - the official residence of The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall and was once the London home of Her Majesty The Queen, then Princess Elizabeth, and The Duke of Edinburgh following their marriage in 1947.

Join a Level 26 Pokemon Trainer and Pokemon Gym Leader* on a Pokemon London walk which gives you the best chance of covering a variety of different Pokemon types as well as fruitful Pokestops and iconic London gyms. Our Pokemon London adventures aim to increase your Pokemon knowledge via pokestops, hunting specific Pokemon for your pokedex, improving your catching capabilities and increasing your own team gym prestige.  

Meet your guide at a central location to start your day. Explore some of London's key landmarks while on the hunt for Pokemon. Starting at the Festival of London's centerpiece, the Southbank Centre, hunt to catch water and psychic Pokemon before moving through Whitehall in the hunt for Poison / Flying Pokemon which have been known to hide there.

Hunt for Pokemon among the real pelicans and squirrels grass, bug and water types lurk of St James's park what shall we find?  It is optional to end the tour with a gym battle / training session, then bid farewell to your guide. No matter what level you have reached or which team you are a member of, you will enjoy exploring both real and virtual London simultaneously on this unique tour.

Join a Level 26 Pokemon Trainer and Pokemon Gym Leader* on a Pokemon London walk which gives you the best chance of covering a variety of different Pokemon types as well as fruitful Pokestops and iconic London gyms. This Pokemon London adventures aim to increase your Pokemon knowledge via pokestops, hunting specific Pokemon for your pokedex, improving your catching capabilities and increasing your own team gym prestige. Meet your guide at a central location to start your day. Explore some of London's key landmarks while on the hunt for Pokemon. Explore the area of London Bridge while on the hunt to catch water and psychic Pokemon before we move to the exciting area of More London.

Then cross Tower Bridge and head towards the Tower of London in the hunt for Rock and Grass Pokemon which have been known to hide there. What will we find?  It is optional to end the tour with a gym battle / training session, then bid farewell to your guide.No matter what level you have reached or which team you are a member of, you will enjoy exploring both real and virtual London simultaneously on this unique tour.

In a city surrounded by dragons, we discuss the importance of the several security breaches at Gringotts Bank and learn about the wizarding world's currency. How many galleons would a wand  cost?   Wind through the old streets of the City of London, will we find Diagon Alley? 

After visiting the film locations for the Leaky Cauldron and the Third Hand Bookshop which hosted Gilroy Lockhart's book signing (both in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban)  we admire a floating museum displaying the Gryffindor colours . See if you think this might be the inspiration for the Durmstrang ship in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

See an infamous Muggle prison where prisoners were tortured and forgotten and compare that to the origins of Azkaban prison, once a place where Muggles were lured and tortured. Take in the iconic views of London as we cross Brokdale Bridge  (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix) and hear the spine-chilling eye witness account of the Death Eater attack of June 1996.

Make the most of your visit to London and take this private tour to the Victoria and Albert museum (V&A) with a Blue Badge certified guide. This option guarantees you a more personal attention and service from your guide.

You will be led to the most important areas of the museum with a vast and detailed explanation of the pieces and exhibitions it has to offer.

The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art and design; housing a permanent collection of over 2.3 million objects that span over 5,000 years of human creativity. The Museum holds many of the UK’s national collections and houses some of the greatest resources for the study of architecture, furniture, fashion, textiles, photography, sculpture, painting, jewellery, glass, ceramics, book arts, Asian art and design, theatre and performance.

The V&A was originally established in 1852, following the enormous success of the Great Exhibition of the previous year. Since its foundation, the Museum and its collections have continued to grow into one of the world’s greatest resources of art and design, housed in one of the finest groups of Victorian buildings in Britain.

Your Blue Badge guide is an official, professional tourist guide of the United Kingdom, recognized by local tourist bodies throughout the UK, and by Visit Britain as one of Britain’s official tourist guides.

Your visit will start meeting the guide outside of the Museum, where you will be provided a brief explanation of the museum; next, you’ll be taken to the most important expositions. After 1.5 hours of the tour you will have free time to spend it at your own leisure!

A wonderful opportunity to leave the hustle and bustle of London for the day and explore the White Cliffs of Dover. This private guided tour is just for your group and lasts 4 hours giving you time to take in the sights of the area. Travel by high speed train from St. Pancras train station London (own expense) to the beautiful city of Canterbury where you will be met by your guide with a luxury vehicle with 8 leather seats & air conditioning at Canterbury West train station.

Once you’re safely on board you will head to Dover to start the tour on Dover's seafront looking up at the White Cliffs and Dover Castle. Driving around the castle to the South Foreland (the White Cliffs), you can look down at the port and across to France. A short drive along the White Cliffs past the South Foreland Lighthouse and through the pretty village of St Margarets at Cliffe to its secret Bay. From here, head for the beautiful village of Kingsdown and its beach where it's believed the Romans first invaded Britain more than 2000 years ago. Then onto the award winning seaside town of Deal via Walmer Castle, the home of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Discover Deal's history of smuggling before visiting the Medieval town of Sandwich. As this is a private tour it can be flexible to meet your needs.

Following a morning pickup at your centrally located London hotel at 08.00, hop aboard your private vehicle and take the 1.5-hour journey to Leeds Castle. Widely considered among England’s finest fortresses, Leeds Castle boasts a history dating back to the 12th century. 

Leeds Castle
A unique opportunity to have a private guided tour of Leeds Castle before it opens to the general public. On arrival, take a 1-hour tour of the castle (own expense) which we can arrange for you and gain insight into centuries of royal history. Learn of famous names who once called the residence home and admire the stunning architecture for which the castle is known. Leeds Castle has been a Norman stronghold, the private property of six of England’s medieval queens, a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon, a Jacobean country house, a Georgian mansion, an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous and in the 21st century, it has become one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Admission and tour cost: £18.25 per person + £50.00 guide fee payable on the day to Leeds castle.

Canterbury Cathedral 
After your visit to Leeds Castle you'll take a 45 minute drive to Canterbury where you'll have time to explore and have some lunch. Whilst small, Canterbury is truly a beautiful city and well worth a visit. Always busy and full of energy but with a village feel. Canterbury Cathedral is truly breathtaking with its medieval history dating back to 597AD. The Cathedral offers a private guided tour (own expense) which we can arrange for you. The Cathedral tour lasts about 90 minutes and costs £10.50 per person + £50 guide fee payable to Canterbury Cathedral on the day.

White Cliffs of Dover Tour
From Canterbury you head to Dover to start the tour on Dover's seafront looking up at the White Cliffs and Dover Castle. Driving around the castle to the South Foreland (the White Cliffs) where you can look down at the port and across to France. A short drive along the White Cliffs past the South Foreland Lighthouse and through the pretty village of St Margarets at Cliffe to its secret Bay. From here you will head for the beautiful village of Kingsdown and its beach where it's believed the Romans first invaded Britain more than 2000 years ago! Then onto the award winning seaside town of Deal via Walmer Castle the home of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Discover Deals history of Smuggling before visiting the Medieval town of Sandwich. As you are a private group the day can be flexible to meet your needs (no waiting for other people). Once you're ready to head to London sit back and your driver will take you to your hotel.

Choose a morning or evening tour when booking, and then leave central London to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stonehenge, free from its daytime crowds. Visitors arriving at the site during the peak daylight hours are not permitted to have direct access to the intriguing stone circle. However, your ‘private viewing’ tour enables your group to walk inside the roped-off circle, and admire the stones close up.

Hear the secrets and mysterious stories about Stonehenge from your expert guide, and experience the site at its atmospheric best! Depending on the time of year you visit, you may even be lucky enough to catch the sunset or sunrise; it’s sure to make your Stonehenge viewing an unforgettable experience. Read on for more details of each option; both tours finish with a drop-off at Victoria in central London.

Morning Tour:
After exploring the stones with your guide, travel onward to the nearby village of Lacock, a place often cited as one of England’s most picturesque villages. Hear of Lacock’s past as a Saxon dwelling, and learn about its use as a setting for many movie and TV programs including the adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Stretch your legs on a walk with your guide, and then head inside the George, a 14th-century pub, for breakfast (own expense).

Continue to Bath, a UNESCO-listed city in the county of Somerset. Enjoy a tour of the Roman Baths, visit Bath Abbey, and learn some more about Jane Austen, who was born in the city. If you wish, enjoy a short walking tour to see where the legendary novelist Charles Dickens lived and worked as a young man, and sample fresh cheese from a local dairy. Alternatively, make the most of some free time to explore independently.

Evening Tour:
From London, travel first to the city of Bath to explore the Roman Baths and visit Bath Abbey, as described for the Morning Tour. Continue to Lacock for a walk around the picturesque village, and then enjoy dinner at the George pub (own expense). Last, but not least, travel to Stonehenge for your tour of the stones when the day-trippers have left the site.

Board a coach at the Victoria Coach Station and relax on the 1-hour drive south to Leeds Castle. Built in 1119 as a Norman stronghold, Leeds Castle is beautifully situated on an island in a lake.

Enjoy a private viewing of this famous castle before it opens to the public. Learn how the property has changed hands and transformed over the years, from a 13th-century royal palace for King Edward I to the residence of Henry VII’s first wife, Catherine of Aragon, in the 16th century all the way up to the last private owner, American heiress Lady Baillie, who is credited for the castle’s remarkable preservation and redecoration.
Following a guide, explore the galleries, bedrooms, chapel, banquet hall and courtyards. Then take time to explore the surrounding gardens, walk around the lake and find your way through the famous maze.

Re-board the coach for a coastal drive to the White Cliffs of Dover, a chalky cliff face that lines part of the English Channel. As you’ll learn, these cliffs are symbolic throughout Britain, as they were the entry point for past war invasions and formed the first sight of England for travelers coming from Continental Europe.

Drive up and over the cliffs to Canterbury. Here you’ll visit Canterbury Cathedral, one of the most important Christian churches in the world and today a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immortalized by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales, this striking Gothic church is nearly 1,700 years old!

After a guided tour of the cathedral, enjoy free time to explore the old town and have lunch at one of the many cafés or restaurants (own expense).

Continue your journey to the London borough of Greenwich, notable for its maritime history and as the birthplace of many English rulers from the House of Tudor. Take a walking tour to learn about Greenwich’s history, architecture, palaces and parks.

Arriving back in central London in the evening, hop on a boat and savor the views on a relaxing sunset cruise along the Thames River. Have your camera ready as you pass top London attractions including Tower Bridge and the Tower of London against the sparkling city skyline.
Arrive at Embankment Pier to conclude your trip.

From Diagon Alley to the Leaky Cauldron take a private black taxi tour of Harry Potter sites by black taxi. Nobody knows the streets of London like a cab driver, and each taxi can hold up to five wizards and/or Muggles. This is your chance to put yourself in the shoes of Harry Potter and friends as you tour the sights of London!

Hop aboard and your expert taxi driver/guide will take you to the sites made famous by the Harry Potter series. First stop is Diagon Alley, where Harry and his friends visit at the start of every school year to pick up their supplies of spell books, robes, wands and other items in preparation for their return to Hogwarts.

Walk through the wall to get to platform 9 and 3/4 at King's Cross Station where the Hogwarts Express departs. Then see the place where Harry and Ron stole Ron's father's flying car. Stand on the bridge where the Knight bus crossed from the third book, Prisoner of Azkaban, and visit the all-new Leaky Cauldron.

Exclusive to Viator - visit the locations of the Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix movie!

Follow Harry's flight to London with Dumbledore's Army and see the bridges, buildings and ships they pass along the way. Enter the telephone box that descends into the Ministry of Magic below. Stand right where Harry and Voldemort come face to face for the first time since the Triwizard tournament in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

Last stop is the Headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix, which is also home to Harry's beloved Godfather Sirius Black.

This tour offers fantastic value for money, comfortably seating up to 5 passengers for one fixed price!

What could be better than a tour of London by black taxi? With your own personal driver guide, you'll see London at your own pace. You can stop whenever you like to take photos, decide how long you want to spend at each attraction, and you can even plan your own customized itinerary!

Your fully qualified and highly experienced black cab driver is the perfect guide to take you through the streets of London. London's taxi drivers have to sit the toughest taxi exam in the world, and their inside knowledge of London is unsurpassed. They know every alley, street and short cut in London, as well as all the historic sights, palaces, museums, galleries, shops and markets.

Taking a Black Taxi Tour of London offers unrivaled personalized and flexible service. Your taxi collects you from your hotel and drops you off wherever you choose in central London when the two-hour tour is finished.

Ask your driver to take you along a route specially chosen by you. Or let your driver guide you around instead, stopping off at the major sights and stopping on request to take photographs. Your driver also provides a full commentary, packed with anecdotes you won't find in any guidebook!

Design your own itinerary with your driver on the day, or see the following sights on a general tour:

• Tower of London
• Tower Bridge
• Trafalgar Square
• Buckingham Palace
• Westminster Abbey
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• Piccadilly Circus
• Leicester Square
• Soho
• Harrods
• Covent Garden
• Marble Arch
• Houses of Parliament
• Big Ben
• Whitehall
• Downing Street

This tour offers fantastic value for money, comfortably seating up to 5 passengers for one fixed price!

Day 1: London – Oxford – Cotswolds
You will be collected from your London hotel in an executive Mercedes, then head out of the city. The first stop is Oxford, England’s world-famous university city. Visit the famous Christ Church, with its links to the past and Harry Potter. Afterward, be driven to the scenic Cotswolds for lunch.

Then, travel to Burford, full of history with a lovely spired church. Visit Chipping Campden, full of Cotswold stone cottages, some with thatched roofs.

See the village of Broadway and its iconic namesake tower.

Pay a visit to Hidcote and take in its beautiful gardens high on the lime stone ridge. See the birthplace of Shakespeare in Stratford-on-Avon, which features a museum alongside other homes connected to his wife’s family and his son-in-law. Be dropped off at your chosen accommodation for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Burton-on-the-Water - Bath
Be picked-up from your hotel at approximately 9:30am. The first town on the itinerary is Burton-on-the-Water, probably the most visited town of the Cotswolds region. Situated on the clear water of the River Windrush with three lovely bridges, it is home to a bird sanctuary and other tourist attractions. Certainly the most “commercial” of the towns you will visit in the Cotswolds, it is best viewed in the morning, before the arrival of the crowds on the numerous coach tours.

Moving away from the potential crowds, cruise on over to Bibury via the ancient Roman road linking South West Britain with Lincoln in the east, the Fosse Way. Hailed as the most beautiful village by William Morris, Bibury remains a very picturesque village with a trout farm on the River Colne. Travel through the Rissingtons, yet another pretty village with several lovely manor houses.

On then to the main town of the Cotswolds, Cirencester, known as Corinium in Roman times, with its Gothic church and Roman museum. As an important Roman town, it had an amphitheater, the site of which can still be seen today.

Travelling then to Tetbury you unexpectantly pass the source of the River Thames. Tetbury is an old “wool town” with many beautiful historic buildings. The Market House, built in 1667, dominates the center of the town and is where traders bought and sold their wool.

Through the most historic town of Malmesbury your next stop is Lacock. Visit the abbey, the internal courtyard of the cloisters of which were used to shoot scenes for the Harry Potter movies.

After a stop at Castle Combe, one of the prettiest villages in England, is Bath. Take a tour of this splendid Georgian city, steeped in Roman history. After a very memorable two days, you will be dropped off at your London hotel or railway station in the Cotswolds.

The tour will start at 8.45am with collection from your accommodation. Your guide will tell you all about the history and legends of each site visited, they will entertain you as you drive around the country with stories and legends of UK history, life and culture.

You will visit Windsor Castle first, normally taking 2-hours. Please note the only place that your guide wont join you is inside Windsor Castle but don't worry  your guide will tell you what you need to do and be waiting for you when you come out of the exit. The guide will also give you a fully guided walk around the Royal Town of Windsor again showing many of its famous buildings and landmarks and waterways.  Then onto the prefect lunch stop normally with one hour to eat (own expense).  

Then visit the wonderful Stonehenge and spend one and half hours at the site. The guide will fully walk you around the full site of Stonehenge including the visitor centre and the stone circle itself as well as the secret stop which is close by

With the final stop being the City of Bath which should take around two hours.The guide will then also fully walk you around the great City of Bath showing many of its amazing buildings and landmarks and waterways.  Then of course travel back to London taking around two hours depending on the local traffic.

The tour will start at 8:45am with collection from your London accommodation to start your 1-hour journey southeast. Throughout the day your guide will tell you all about the history and legends of each site visited. They will also entertain you with stories and legends of the United Kingdom's life and culture as you drive through the country.

The tour will visit Rochester Castle and Cathedral first, for 1 to 2-hours. Your guide will walk you around and tell you all about the castle and cathedral's rich past and help take great photos. The guide will also give you a fully-guided walk around the town of Rochester, again showing many of its famous buildings, landmarks, and waterways. Then it's on to the prefect lunch stop, normally with about an hour to eat (at own expense).  

Then, visit the wonderful Dover Castle and spend approximately 2-hours at the site. The guide will stroll with you around the full site of the castle and again tell you all the past of this British army site.

The final stop will be the White Cliffs of Dover which should take around 1-hour. Again, your guide will walk you around the famous landmark and help take photos that will truly make your day.

After, travel the 2-hours back to London, depending on the local traffic, with the tour ending at approximately 7:30pm.

The tour will start at 8:45am with collection from your London accommodation for your trip northeast. Your guide will tell you all about the history and legends of each site visited. They will also entertain you with history's stories and legends, as well as life and culture in the UK as you drive through the countryside on the way to the stunning village of Burford. Stroll around the town with your guide for about 45-minutes as they point out its old and stunning buildings.

Then it's on to Stow-on-the-Wold for about an hour, then Bourton-on-the-Water for another hour, then to Lower Slaughter for about 30-minutes. Your guide will walk you around each village and discuss the history of each. They will even help take all the group photos you need. Then take the prefect lunch stop in one of the oldest pubs in the whole of England, trading since 947AD. Here you'll have approximately an hour to eat (at own expense).  

The final stop will be the Chedworth Roman villa hidden deep in the Cotswolds in the tiny village of Yanworth. You will never forget this stunning example of British-Roman Cotswold life in a well laid-out and displayed site in the truly breathtaking countryside.

Then travel the 2-hours back to your London accommodation, depending on the local traffic, with the tour ending at approximately 7:30pm.

Your expert guide will take you to the actual sites used in the filming of many of the Harry Potter movies. This is the best tour for any Harry Potter fan as you will be able to walk in the footprints of the stars themselves.   You will enjoy free 4G WIFI to use all day inside the vehicle, as well as free drinks and snacks. You will even get to stop at a secret place along the way to ensure you really get that WOW factor! Your guide will know all the best places to stop and get that perfect photo and will even take them for you to make sure all of your group is in the photo together.

The tour will start at 8.45am with collection from your accommodation. Your guide will tell you all about the history and legends of each site visited, and will entertain you as you drive around the country with stories and legends of UK history, life and culture.

You will visit the city of Oxford and head to Christchurch College first, normally taking one hour.  This college, the most famous site in all the Harry Potter movies, has the real great hall used in the movies, and the staircase used at Hogwarts.  From there it’s onto the Bodleian Library to visit the Hogwarts Infirmary and Hogwarts Library. Along the way you can spend some time shopping in some of the cities famous stores should you wish to get any Oxford University items or Harry Potter memorabilia.  The guide will stay with you all the time and guide you around all the sites and point out many other facts and points of interest the city and colleges have to offer.  

From here we’ll stop at the prefect lunch stop, the same pub frequented by the famous authors, normally with one hour to eat (own expense).  

The final stop on our tour is the stunning ancient English Village of Lacock which should take around two hours.  This village has the amazing Lacock Abbey within it and this contains the real corridors used for the school of Hogwarts and the classrooms used for the films.  This cannot get any better for any Harry Potter fan but yet it does.  Also within the village sits the tiny cottage used by Harry's father and mother where they battled the evil Voldermort and where Harry got that famous scar.  Again the guide will stay with you all the time and tell you all you need to know about the old and famous village. 

After this exciting day of wizardry, we’ll then travel back to London taking about two hours depending on the local traffic with the tour ending at approximately 730pm.

The tour will start at 8:45am with pickup from your hotel or private accommodation in London. Board your private, modern, heated and air-conditioned vehicle which can comfortably seat 7 travelers. Vehicles utilized for tours are modern 7- to 8-seater MPV's (Mercedes, Ford, Kia, Seat, Hyundai or similar). Your driver/guide will tell you all about the history and legends of each site visited, they will entertain you as you drive around the country with stories and legends of UK history, life and culture.

The first stop will be the wonderful Stonehenge (entrance not included) where you will spend approximately 1.5 hours at the site. The guide will fully walk you around the entire site of Stonehenge including the visitor center and the stone circle itself.  Listen as your guide shares historical accounts and legends of this world famous site. Your guide will be happy to take photos of you and your group, so no need for someone to be out of the photos.

Next, take a short 10 minute drive to the lesser known, Woodhenge. This site is free to visit, so no ticket is needed. This magical place also contains the site of Durrington Walls and it is critical to the legend of Stonehenge and will help you understand Stonehenge itself in a whole new way! Spend about 30 minutes at the site and again your guide take you for a walk around and tell you all the history and legends. Your guide has special knowledge of one of the best places to take a truly wonderful photo that you will love.

The final stop will be an hour's drive away, and it will be the giant Stone Age circle of Avebury. This is also a free site to visit, so not ticket is required for entry. You will spend between 1.5 to 2 hours at this site. You'll be able to walk inside the stone circle itself, you can touch the stones, and you will even be able to walk on top of the henge if your included for a view that will surely take your breath away.  This is a big change to Stonehenge where travelers are restricted and provides you with an entirely view of stone circles. The guide will again stay with you and walk you around the stones telling you all its stories linked with this site and past history.

Afterwards, and before making the trip back to London, your driver/guide will make an extra stop at a surprise location.  The drive back to London will take around 2 hours, depending on the local traffic, with the tour ending at approximately 7:30pm.

You will be contacted by the supplier within 24 hours, you will be asked question s bout your preferences and interests, so they can match you with the right profile and assign a like-minded local Londoner. He or she who will become your host. Keeping in mind your personal answers,  a bespoke itinerary will be put together, just for you. 

A meeting point will be arranged with your guide in the most convenient place for you. If during the tour you feel like changing direction, or your guide believes that you'd enjoy a sight or different experience, he/she will suggest and discuss with you changes to the itinerary.

Enjoy discovering amazing spots in London that you don't know about and are difficult to find in any guidebook or on the Internet, because they are lesser known to the crowd but beloved by Locals! The day revolves around your wishes so enjoy your private tour and let your Local show you the London you will love.

Get up to speed on one of London's hottest areas, East London, on this 4-hour walking tour with private, local guide. You'll see how Shoreditch and Hoxton have transformed from working class areas to creative hubs, explore Brick Lane and Spitalfields Market, and much, much more. Your guide will tailor the precise details of the tour to suit your personal interests, whether that's art, fashion, design, or food, and include any particular sights you want to see.

As this is a personalized tour, you can start any time between 9am and 3pm. You'll meet your guide at Spitalfields Market – arrive an hour or so early to give yourself time to explore the maze of funky stores and eateries at your own pace. Over coffee at a cafe that locals know for the best java in town, plan out your tour – or choose to follow this recommended itinerary.

After meeting your guide and getting to know them, head to Brick Lane, one of East London's most diverse destinations, at 1:30pm. Explore vintage stores, vinyl shops, event spaces, bakeries, and more, all the while inhaling the delicious scent of the East End's national dish: curry.

At 3pm, your guide will recommend a great local restaurant for an Indian lunch (own expense). Next, stroll down the road to Shoreditch to explore a pop-up mall in shipping containers, where artists and creative designers exhibit and sell their work in bespoke spaces. The two-storey container set-up is also home to restaurants, bars, and terraces, where you can eat, drink, and look out over the East End.

Finally, walk to Old Street and explore the Old Street and Hoxton areas, known for their vibrant nightlife. Wander down side streets to view some great street art and uncover hidden gems such as a motorcycle café nestled within the fabric of the community. This version of the tour would end at Old Street tube station around 5pm.

Join a local guide to discover London's chic Islington area on this fully personalized, private, 4-hour walking tour. Regularly featured in London's top newspapers and magazines, Islington is home to dozens of charming coffee shops, vintage stores, antique shops, gastropubs, and bookstores – as well as a pretty stretch of the Grand Union Canal. This is a custom tour, so you can tailor the itinerary to suit your personal interests.

You'll meet your guide at 1pm in a cool cafe to discuss your itinerary for the afternoon: just let them know your needs and interests, and they'll customize the tour to suit you. Alternatively, you can follow the sample itinerary below.

Once you're done in the cafe, stroll down a quiet, cobbled alleyway, where you'll find many coffee shops, leading down to a picturesque canal lined with brightly colored barges. Stroll along the canal for a while, stopping in a classic Islington pub around 2:30pm. Take your pick from cask ales, craft beers, and fine wines (own expense), and enjoy them at your leisure.

Next, you'll duck into Islington's pretty residential streets, some of them complete with 18th-century Georgian houses. Discover cute courtyards, handmade furniture shops, and indie boutiques. At 4pm, you'll break for a late lunch: your guide will recommend some of Islington's best eateries, and you can take your pick (own expense).

After lunch, visit London's only gallery dedicated to modern Italian art, from futurist to figurative styles. Your tour will finish around 5pm, when your guide offers tips about how to spend the evening: will you end up at one of Islington's legendary rock “n” roll venues, a gastro-pub, a cocktail bar, or a comedy club?

Meet your private guide in central Brixton in the afternoon, then head through into the Victorian-era market to begin your tour. Here, browse vintage stores, independent boutiques, and characterful cafes, and soak up the atmosphere in this colorful corner of London.

Explore Brixton’s quirky backstreets with your private guide and get a feel for the community’s unique character. As you explore, admire stylish street art — widely considered among the best in London — and discover some of the pioneering galleries and businesses for which Brixton is becoming famous.

Afterward, perhaps stop for a drink in one of Brixton’s stylish bars, cocktail clubs, microbreweries, or speakeasies (own expense) to conclude your tour in style.

When people imagine London this is the part of central that usually comes to mind - Big Ben, the Houses of parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square with Nelson's column looking out over it all, and the renowned stone market of Covent Garden. On this tour you will not only get to experience this part of iconic London, but with the perspective of a local host you will also get to enjoy all the lesser known buildings, secluded squares, idyllic less traveled walks, and charming, narrow cobbled streets that hide behind one of the word's most glorious city spaces.

Book this 4 hour meet-up with a local host and the CityUnscripted team will contact you within 24 hours and ask you questions about your preferences and interests. Based on your answers we will create a personalised itinerary for you and assign a like-minded Londoner. He or she will become your local host. You will wander from Big Ben to Covent Garden, all of the bits in between will be built by the CityUnscripted and your local host, based on your preferences.

Below is an example of a sample itinerary:

You’ll begin your tour near the Westminster tube stop, taking in the well-known sights of Big Ben and Parliament.  Your local host will lead you past Westminster Abbey and through two of the areas most charming parks.

Witness Her Majesty’s swans idyllically gliding through the ponds and protected bird sanctuaries of the secluded shrubberies and woodlands. Then your local guide will lead you around the palace stopping to observe if the state flag is flying overhead—an indication that the Queen is in residence, before cutting up to Westminster’s best street for shopping!

Stop for a quick bite or a coffee at an unknown gem of a cafe that is situated above one of the areas largest bookshops, take in the panoramic views of Big Ben and the abbey as you enjoy a cream tea. After your refreshment, you can wander past the upmarket grocers used by the Queen (actually used by her staff), and the most expensive restaurant in London, which fortunately has slightly more affordable lunch options! Your guide will lead you through the seemingly chaotic Piccadilly Circus, which is often compared to New York's Time Square before navigating you down the numerous squares and backstreets that lead to Covent Garden, with its glorious covered market.

In Covent Garden make your way to the two floors of market shops and stalls which are fabulous for discovering unique handmade or designer treasures to take home. From mid-day until the late afternoon the market is surrounded by musicians and street-performers that have to apply to the council to busk at this prestigious and historic venue.

Meet your local guide at Camden Town tube station before heading to explore the sprawling market and former stables; here you can sample some of the best international cuisine from innumerable food stalls that set up shop every morning, or you can explore shops that cater to very niche subcultures. There are also shops dedicated to selling authentic Persian rugs, handmade fairy lights, pop culture goods from Tokyo, and so much more in the expansive Camden market, that it can be hard to know which way to turn.

After you have had your fill of the market your local guide will lead you further along the canal, pointing out the street art dedicated to Amy Winehouse who lived in the neighborhood on the way to the charming community of Primrose Hill. This was the home of Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes when they lived in London and also Frederick Engels; today the attractive hidden away street exclusively has independent shops, cafes and restaurants, including a local grocer, butcher, florist, bookshop, French delicatessen and fine wines shop. This is an excellent place to stock up on a selection of cheese and wine before heading up to the top of Primrose Hill, which as the highest hill in London offers some pretty spectacular views of the city.

If you happen to be in London on New Years Eve or any other major holiday, this is an excellent vantage point to beat the crowds that line the Southbank to see the fireworks. Once you’ve properly relaxed and taken in the sites of the city your local guide will lead you back towards Camden Town via Chalk Farm, pointing out where the best places to see live music are in the many music venues and clubs of the area.

Experience London like a Londoner and unlock the secrets of the River Thames' south bank on this 4-hour private walking tour with local guide that takes you from Big Ben to Tower Bridge. Itineraries are fully customizable, but typically visit the London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe, and Tower Bridge, as well as food markets, cute boutiques, cool restaurants, and a myriad hidden gems. 

Greet your local guide at Westminster tube station at a time of your choosing. As this is a private tour, you can customize your itinerary to suit your interests: just request a private consultation when you book to create a tailor-made tour.

A typical itinerary begins with a stroll across Westminster Bridge, stopping to capture views of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and, of course, the London Eye. As you explore the south bank of the Thames, you'll see attractions from the recreated Shakespeare's Globe theater to the Golden Hinde, a replica of a 16th-century pirate ship that circumnavigated the globe.

Yet this tour isn't really about the big ticket attractions. Following the curve of the Thames, your guide will take you deep below the city's surface, showing you secret locations that locals love and tourists often miss out on, and spots that never make it into the conventional guidebooks.

You'll duck down back streets to explore atmospheric lanes, cool restaurants, and indie stores, and discover up-and-coming neighborhoods, as well as Londoners' favorite food destination, Borough Market. Along the way, your guide will share their local knowledge, enabling you to discover this great city like a native.

A typical tour concludes at Tower Bridge, where you're free to explore the iconic structure (own expense), or catch a tube from Tower Hill.

As you walk around the stylish cultural melting-pot of Shoreditch, active street artist Karim will draw your attention to specific pieces of notable artwork. He is extremely knowledgeable about his craft, and will give you a general overview of the history and culture of street art in London, as well as answering any questions you may have. A hot topic for discussion on this tour will be how artists tread the line between commercial success and ‘keeping it real’, as more and more underground work is absorbed into the mainstream.

From the moment your guide (Karim) landed in London from Zimbabwe, Karim was drawn to the city’s graffiti and street art scene. Studying the people and styles that define it, he found himself powerless to resist, and his art can now be seen adorning walls across the capital. His expertise on the subject is also much in demand, and he has conducted highly regarded workshops and tours for clients that include the BBC.

Karim’s enthusiasm is infectious, and it springs from a background in architecture – something that is evident in the “insane knowledge” that he imparts during your time with him. He has certainly inspired us to look closer at the amazing array of urban interventions across the capital. “Street art in London is always in flux,” he says, “and it is a wonderful cacophony of colour and characters.” Join on this tour and fine-tune your eye on the street.

A focal point for graffiti writers and street artists, east London gives a snapshot of a movement that’s evolving day by day. Given its proximity to the City, rich cultural history and status as the UK’s tech hub, it’s easy to see why it’s such a fertile setting.

On a walk round the neighbourhood, active street artist Karim will uncover the many layers of urban art that have appeared on the district’s walls – some obvious, some hidden – and introduce the key players and notable pieces. A hot topic for discussion on this SideStory Experience will be how artists tread the line between commercial success and ‘keeping it real’, as more and more underground work is absorbed into the mainstream.

London’s Tate Modern and Tate Britain hold some of the country’s pre-eminent collections of historic and contemporary art. Visiting both museums via a boat ride along the Thames is a chance to see how ideas and artistic processes flow through time. By selecting works shown in the galleries’ permanent collections, Joshua will chart the evolution of different art movements and media. 

A writer and lecturer at Sotheby’s, Christie's, specialising in modern and contemporary art, Joshua also freelances as a lecturer in art for the Tate museums and the National Portrait Gallery. Growing up in London, he has witnessed first-hand the city’s emergence as a centre of the global contemporary art scene.

A frequent contributor to Flash Art magazine and co-presenter of The Art Channel, your guide always has the inside track on what to see – one of the many reasons we enjoy gallery-hopping with him and getting his expert take on London’s emerging artists and must-see exhibitions.

When your booking is confirmed, you will receive comprehensive details about your experience, including Joshua's contact details and the meeting location. You will also receive a pre-experience questionnaire, which is essential for Joshua to be able to tailor your tour to your interests. 

You will meet Joshua at the Tate Modern, where he will select works out of the permanent collections to illustrate how artistic creation has evolved in style and medium. Then, taking to the Thames by boat, you will go on to Tate Britain, where Joshua will identify early British works that continue to inspire artists today. He’ll give his insight into the connections between diverse styles, from self-expressive painting to conceptual works inspired by mathematics.

The whole tour lasts around three hours, and includes some light refreshments.

Pick up from your hotel by your specially selected guide, you will make your way to the heart of Royal London. See Big Ben and marvel at the houses of Parliament and check if the Prime Minister is in before taking in Westminster Abbey (the church where William and Kate were married).

Pass the Churchill War Rooms and stroll through the beautiful St James Park and catch a guard change. March with the guides from the best position, most miss.  Have photos at Buckingham palace and hear it's surprising stories before being taken to restaurant selected for your tastes and requirements where your guide will leave you for lunch. Your guide takes pride in tailoring you a list of suggestions for your afternoon and rest of your trip.

A boat trip down the Thames links the two Tates and provides a wonderful panorama of London from the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben to St. Paul's and the City of London. You alight on the South Bank for the Tate Modern, the famous conversion of the Bankside Power Station (1957-60) which took place during the 1990's to house the 20 C. collection of Modern and Contemporary Art. Apart from the exciting modern collection of paintings, sculptures, and objects, it enjoys from the top floor splendid views over the Thames towards St. Paul's, to which it has been linked by the Millennium pedestrian bridge by Norman Foster. It also contains an imposing collection of modern European masterpieces from the beginning of the 20 C with great works by the Italian futurists like Boccioni or metaphysical painters like De Chirico, French masterpieces in sculpture and paintings like Degas' Dancers, Matisse, Picasso and an impressive collection of American Abstract Expressionists.

This in-depth private tour is hosted by a professional guide specializing in art history. Please list any special interests you have (art, architecture, history, culture) at time of booking to alert our guide, so that he or she can better prepare for your private tour.

Christopher Wren built 53 churches following the fire of London in 1666 and 23 remain. Among these we will visit St. Stephen Walbrook and St. Mary Abchurch. The former has a beautifully designed dome which undoubtedly served as a model for St. Paul's. St. Mary Abchurch contains a wealth of objects including a massive reredos by Grinling Gibbons.

This in-depth private tour is hosted by a professional guide specializing in art history. Please list any special interests you have (art, architecture, history, culture) at time of booking to alert our guide, so that he or she can better prepare for your private tour.

The Tower of London is Europe's best preserved medieval fortress, and one of London's oldest buildings. It was established by William the Conqueror in 1067, and over the centuries many members of royalty and the aristocracy have lost their lives here.

Accompanied by your private guide, you'll visit the Jewel House containing the Crown Jewels, the White Tower and Chapel of St. John, one of the purest expressions of Norman architecture. You'll gain incredible insights into the Tower's architecture and history on this private walking tour, with ceremony and tradition provided by the Yeomen Warden who parade daily at 11am in the Inner Ward.

Just down river from the Tower is Tower Bridge, a famous London landmark built between 1886 and 1894. The view from the towers provides a wonderful panorama of London, all the way down river to Greenwich and Canary Wharf.

This in-depth private walking tour of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge is hosted by an expert guide specializing in art history. Please list any special interests you have (art, architecture, history, culture) at the time of booking to alert your guide, so they can prepare for your private tour.

Walking along Knightsbridge, London's famous shopping center where Harrods is located, you will reach No.1 London, the name given to Apsley house. Built by Adams in 1775 for Baron Apsley and acquired by the Duke of Wellington in 1817, he aggrandized the house with the help of architect Wyatt who gave it the Corinthian temple front and faced it in gold bath stone. It became the grand mansion of the Duke of Wellington, the victor of Napoleon. You will find the treasures regaled to the Duke by the European Monarchs returned to their thrones after the defeat of Napoleon. As you enter the house in the inner hall is the nude marble statue by Canova of Napoleon in the guise of Apollo. See silver and porcelain sets, jewels and snuff boxes surrounded by the Duke's furniture. Upstairs are the paintings which he collected and the old masters from the Royal Spanish collection found in Giuseppe Bonaparte's coach as he was abandoning Madrid. These were given to Wellington by the King of Spain. Among them are paintings by Velazquez, Rubens, Murillo, Ribera and Goya.(On Mondays and Tuesdays when Apsley House is closed more time will be spent in the V&A Museum.)

This private tour is hosted by a professional guide specializing in art history. Please list any special interests you have (art, architecture, history) at time of booking to alert our guide so that he or she can better prepare for your private tour.

Please note: Apsley House will be closed until March 31, 2015, more time will be spent at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Visit the wonderful British Museum on this 3-hour private tour with your own art historian guide. The British Museum, one of the world’s greatest historical treasure troves, is the largest ethnographic Museum in the world- culture is its theme. It represents not only British culture but it is a collection of World cultures such as the Egyptian, Assyrian, Mesopotamian, Greek, Roman, Pacific Ocean and Eastern Cultures.

This British Museum tour is ideal for a personalised perspective on the collections. Among the main objects are some of the most important Egyptian statues, the Egyptian Mummies, the famous Assyrian Lion Hunt, the Standard of Ur, the Parthenon Marbles, Roman sculpture with the famous Portland Cameo Vase and many more.

See the best of London’s National Gallery, one of the world’s most visited art museums, on this private 3.5-hour tour. With a specialist art historian guide, tick off the gallery’s most impressive paintings and learn more about the artists behind them. Get up close to works by the Italian greats, including da Vinci and Michelangelo, and Flemish masterpieces from the likes of Rubens and Campin. You’ll also take in timeless paintings by French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists such as Monet, Renoir, Picasso and Cezanne.
Choose from a morning or afternoon tour, and then make your own way to the National Gallery, a striking Pantheon-style art museum raised on a terrace overlooking Nelson’s Column and the iconic lion statues in London’s Trafalgar Square.
Meet your guide, an art history specialist, and then head inside to trace European art across the centuries. The National Gallery boasts one of Europe’s greatest collections of paintings by the Old Masters (European artists whose notable works were produced between the Renaissance and 18th century), and houses more than 2,300 artworks dating from the Middle Ages through the 20th century.
Stroll from room to room, taking in the mosaic floors, marble pillars and floor-to-ceiling art, and listen as your specialist guide talks you through the gallery’s key masterpieces as well as the artists behind them.
Throughout your private tour, pay special attention to the Italian greats — from the 13th-century Masters to the High Renaissance of Piero della Francesca, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo — and the Flemish school of art, including works by Rubens, van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden and Campin, considered by many to be the first great master of Flemish and Early Netherlandish painting.
See, too, masterpieces from Rembrandt, as well as the gallery’s French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists collection, one of the finest of its kind in the world — crammed with timeless works by Renoir, Monet, Pisarro, Cezanne, van Gogh, Matisse and Picasso.
After roughly 3.5 hours, your tour concludes inside the National Gallery, leaving you free to continue exploring independently, should you wish.

You will be paired with a professional photographer that will capture your travels in a contemporary and candid stye of photography. Your photographer will ensure you return home with beautiful photos that will last a life time and make your friends jealous.

A custom route will be organized through the chosen destination based on your unique needs, whether it be a romantic getaway, a family trip or a livelier one with friends. Invest in memories that can be shared for years to come. Your photographer will be a local expert and will share their knowledge of the city like an old friend. The photos will be made available within 5 working days of the photo tour, available to download via an online gallery with no hidden charges.

Enjoy a classic English seaside destination with the people who are closest to you on this private 9-hour trip to Southend-on-Sea. Choose from historic attractions like medieval Prittlewell Priory and Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world, or contemporary sights like the Adventure Island theme park or Sea Life Adventure aquarium: lunch and entrance fees are at your own expense.

Your personal driver will collect you from your central London hotel at 9:30am in private climate-controled vehicle. It's generally around a 90-minute drive to Southend-on-Sea, through the pretty English countryside around the Thames Estuary.

On arrival, you'll start with lunch by the scenic Southend Cliff Gardens, manicured landscaped gardens with stunning views across the broad sweep of the Thames Estuary and the English Channel. Next, you might wish to explore some highlights of Southend's history, such as medieval Prittlewell Priory or Southchurch Hall, or the Central Museum, which tells the story of the natural and human history of the county of Essex.

No trip to Southend would be complete without a stroll on the sandy beach. Don't miss Southend Pier: at 1.34 miles (2.1 kilometers), it's  the longest pleasure pier in the world. Savor classic British seaside snacks like rock candy, fish and chips, and candyfloss as you relax on the sand, watch the children building sandcastles, or visit a traditional seaside arcade.

Should you wish, you might also want to check out some of Southend's more contemporary attractions. Adventure Island offers thrilling rides such as Vortex and Dragon's Claw, as well as classic seaside fare like a big wheel and crazy golf. The Sea Life Adventure aquarium includes exhibits of rays, turtles, and crocodiles.

You'll leave between 4:30pm and 5pm, arriving back at your hotel around 6:30pm.

Explore the residential areas of London beyond the classic tourist sites and immerse yourself in London’s rich culture as you experience how real Londoners live, eat and shop! From the bustling markets of Whitechapel to the green borders of Essex, see the diversity that London has to offer from the luxury of your own private driven vehicle. Be a real Londoner for the day!

Enjoy a complimentary pick up directly from your hotel in an air-conditioned luxury private car and take plenty of photos as you drive through the city centre and into some of London’s leafier havens.

Drive through London’s financial hub into neighbouring Shoreditch - London’s popular and fashionable “hip” scene – before making your way through to Whitechapel, once home to the infamous “Jack the Ripper” and now soaked in rich South East Asian culture with cafes, restaurants, places of worship and local street markets.

See the home of the London 2012 Olympic Games in Stratford and discover the vibrant local communities that surround it. Enjoy a taste of Stratford life in the Westfield shopping centre, bustling with fashion, beauty, lifestyle and food stores.

Continue your drive into the leafier areas of London through the open grasslands of Wanstead Flats into the hilly streets of affluent Buckhurst Hill, which sits on the borders of London and Essex and view some of the spectacularly large houses nestled amongst the rich nature of Epping Forest.

Sit back and relax as you soak in the evening beauty of London’s iconic sites in the heart of the East End. In your luxury Mercedes private car, see the illuminated landmarks of Canary Wharf, Stratford, the O2, St Katherine Docks and much more. This magical evening tour is a breathtaking way to see London’s hidden gems!

Enjoy a complimentary pick up directly from your hotel in an air-conditioned luxury Mercedes private car as you embark on a magical evening drive through London’s East End and discover its iconic landmarks under the night sky.

See the breathtaking views of the River Thames as you drive along the Embankment and witness the beauty of the Tower of London at night as you head towards London’s East End.

Admire the grandeur of London’s Olympic Stadium lit up at night along with Britain’s largest sculpture – the ArcelorMittal Orbit – made with 35,000 bolts and enough steel to build 265 double-decker buses!

Immerse yourself in the spectacular skyline of Canary Wharf and get up close and personal to some of Europe’s tallest buildings. Witness to awe-inspiring transformation of this East London gem, historically one of Britain’s busiest docks and now one of the most important financial districts in the world.

Be dazzled by the O2, London’s state-of-the-art arena, before stopping for a stroll in the tranquil and picturesque St Katherine Docks - the only marina in Central London - with the option of dinner in one of the many restaurants overlooking the peaceful waters.

Finally, enjoy a complimentary drive back directly to your hotel in your air-conditioned luxury Mercedes private car.

For being one of London’s most famous regions, Greenwich, in London’s southeast, is surprisingly undiscovered by many. With a distinctly ‘English’ feel, the neighborhood is conservative and traditional due to its royal roots, yet also has an edgier side with exciting attractions, quirky independent shops, street markets and a thriving pub scene – all crying out to be explored!

Your private driver will pick up from your central London hotel, and after a quick chat about suggested attractions, you’ll be on your way. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your morning based on your preferences – just let your driver know what you want to see and then sit back and enjoy the ride taking in panoramic views of London!

Most itineraries involve a route that takes in the top sights around Maritime Greenwich – a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area that contains a collection of world-class attractions. Take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere, or perhaps visit some of the top sites (entry fees at your own expense).

Well-known sites inside Maritime Greenwich include the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park, home of Greenwich Mean Time, and the majestic Old Royal Naval College that was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the late 1600s. The famous Cutty Sark ship can be found in dry dock here, and is definitely worth a visit. The last surviving tea-clipper boat is said to have been the fastest and greatest of her time.

Your friendly private driver will give you plenty of insider tips for the best places to see or have lunch or a snack, should you wish. Greenwich has an array of independent shops that are worth visiting, or if you’re traveling on a weekend, a trip to Greenwich Market is a must. Alternatively you might wish to see the O2 Arena (named the North Greenwich Arena for the Olympic Games) where many athletic events during the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics were held.

You tour finishes back at your hotel, or you can arrange with your driver to be dropped off at the central London location of your choice.

London’s vibrant markets originated in the Middle Ages, when street sellers pedaled no-nonsense food to London’s city workers. Proving ever popular, the markets you’ll find today are scattered all over the capital and sell everything from artsy antiques to vintage clothing to cutting-edge fashion accessories.

With so much to choose from, scouting out the best markets can be difficult and take up too much of your valuable time. Luckily, you’ll have a knowledgeable private driver to give you the best insider tips and drive you to the markets that you simply can’t miss!

After picking you up from your hotel, your driver will chat with you about suggested markets, and then you’ll be on your way. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your day of bargain hunting based on your preferences – just let your driver know where you want to go.

Check out the foodie hotspot of Borough Market, where nearly 100 stalls sell gourmet delights and cheap eats. Producers from around the country showcase their wares here, and you’ll be encouraged to try samples galore while walking around. Shop for tongue-tantalizing olive oils and taste exquisite cheeses, cured meats, artisan breads and more!

Portobello Market is another must-visit market that should definitely top your list. Selling a wide range of clothes, antiques, food and general knick-knacks, the market stretches the length of Portobello Road in west London, right through the trendy Notting Hill neighborhood.

East London boasts several of the capital’s best markets; choose to visit iconic ones like Brick Lane, with its retro furniture and bric-a-brac stalls, or Spitalfields Market, where vintage clothes and homemade gifts are sold in a covered Victorian hall.

After eight hours of browsing London’s best markets, your private driver will drop back at your hotel.

Picking you up from your central London hotel, your private driver will provide you with a few suggestions for places that you might want to see or explore. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your evening based on your preferences – just let your driver know what central London attractions you’d like to see, and then sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!

Most itineraries involve a route that takes in the top London sights, so you can get out of the car to walk around, perhaps entering some attractions at your own expense, before venturing on to the next site on your list.

Visit Piccadilly, the busy street that boasts several big-name London shops and hotels like Fortnum & Mason (open till late!) and the Ritz, and see Trafalgar Square when its daytime crowds and pigeons are replaced by party goers and lit-up monuments.

Be sure to take a walk around Soho, London’s proudly bohemian neighborhood, where you’re guaranteed to see a diverse bunch of Londoners enjoying a night out. The epicenter of London’s vibrant gay community, Soho also boasts an eclectic mix of businesses, from bustling Chinatown restaurants to seedy shops to trendy bars crammed full of media darlings from offices nearby.

Neighboring Soho is London’s ‘theatreland’ – the West End. This frenzied and fast-paced area is home to London’s finest theaters, such as the Adelphi and Theatre Royal, and is most definitely worth checking out.

Whatever route you decide to take, consider fitting in the Thames Embankment. Your driver can recommend a famous riverside London pub here, or point you in the right direction for a stroll along the Embankment’s south side. Following the Thames path, pass beautifully illuminated attractions like the London Eye, Festival Hall or the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben on the other side of the river.

After three hours of independent sightseeing around London at night, your private driver will drop you off back at your hotel.

As one of the world’s leading fashion capitals, London has an exciting shopping scene that’s particularly well known for its uber-chic department stores. Dotted around London, the stores can be tricky to find and working out the logistics from one to another can be even trickier still. Luckily, with this private tour, you’ll have a knowledgeable private driver to give you insider tips and drive you to the shops that you simply can’t miss!

After picking you up from your hotel, your driver will chat with you about suggested shops, and then you’ll be on your way. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your day of shopping based on your preferences – let your driver know where you want to go and then sit back and enjoy the ride.

Perhaps head to Harrods in upmarket Knightsbridge. Retailing in the same location since 1849, the palatial store remains unrivaled as the must-visit shop in London. It offers both first-rate service and an extensive product range -- selling everything from haute couture to ice cream.

Fortnum & Mason is probably the best-known British food store, having operated for centuries on London’s Piccadilly. Besides being the largest quality food retailer in London, the shop has a gorgeous interior; gaze up at its glittering chandeliers as you walk along its luxuriously carpeted aisles, shopping for quintessentially English teas and picnic hampers.

Be sure to check out the shopping mecca that is Oxford Street, home to the flagship Topshop store, all the best British-brand chain shops and, of course, Selfridges – another of the world’s finest department stores, symbolized by its iconic yellow shopping bag. Nearby is Liberty, the Tudor-style building with its tantalizing window displays to tempt you inside.

After eight hours of shopping in London’s finest shops, your private driver will drop you and your shopping bags back at your hotel – the perfect ending to your perfect shopping day!

Leave your central London hotel and travel west with your private driver to the royal town of Windsor, just under an hour’s drive away. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your morning plans based on your preferences – just let your driver know what you want to see in Windsor and then sit back and enjoy the drive!

The affluent town is best known as the site of Windsor Castle – the official residence of the Queen and a place well worth visiting (entry at your own expense). Covering an area of roughly 13 acres (5 hectares), Windsor Castle’s grounds include an impressive list of things to see, like the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel. Your guide will give you plenty of insider tips about the best areas of the castle to visit, should you wish to.

Windsor’s Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily, so you can try to catch it while exploring the town. Usually accompanied by a military band, soldiers march up the high street to Windsor Castle in colorful red tunics and bearskin hats, representing the pomp and ceremony of the British Royal Family that so intrigues visitors to England.

Near the town center is Windsor Great Park -- perfect for a walk or summer’s day picnic! Take a stroll along the famous Long Walk, a 2-mile (3-km) path bordered by symmetrical rows of beautiful trees and neat lawns.

Most itineraries include a drive to Eton, the historic little town just on the other side of the River Thames from Windsor. See Eton College, where Princes William and Harry studied, and browse the town’s endearing collection of independent shops. Alternatively, visit the nearby town of Runnymede, where the Magna Carta was sealed by King John in 1215.

Your independent Windsor tour finishes back at your hotel, or a central London location of your choice.

Your private London tour experience begins even before you arrive. Once you have made your reservation you will be contacted with a 2-minute checklist to fill out - this will indicate which areas of the city you would like to visit and what style of tour you would like.

The day of the tour arrives and your guide will meet you at your location of choice - whether you want to be picked up from a hotel, apartment or other location. Pickup times are flexible; whether you want an early start to beat the crowds or a lie-in, this can be accommodated.

Your guide will explore London with you for seven hours. You will see the major landmarks, hidden areas, discover incredible ceremonies and have London's fascinating stories brought to life with your guide. If you want shopping and dining recommendations, your guide is more than happy to provide some that suit your tastes as well. Transportation using London's efficient and safe public transport system is included in the price of your tour.

If you are unsure what you want to see an itinerary can be recommended - why not stroll through Mayfair and see the Changing the Guard from a secret location away from the hordes of tourists? Then, see Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Downing Street, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben - get great photos and hear fascinating stories.

Next, have lunch at one of London's great markets, at a historic pub or at any other location, all the while enjoying the view of the Tower of London. After lunch, marvel at The Shard, Tower Bridge, London Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and all the hidden gems in between. This is just one example, of course. Your tour is a fully tailored service that is uniquely designed for you. You can spend more time in a certain location if you want, or change the tour half way through.

At the end of the tour you can be dropped off at your location of choosing. Back at your hotel, a nice bar or pub, at a theatre for the evening or any other location of your choosing.

Your private London tour experience begins even before you arrive. Once you have completed your booking, you'll receive a 2-minute checklist by email to fill out which will let the guide know which areas of the city you would like to visit, as well as any special interests you have.

At a confirmed time (based on your request), your guide will meet you at your accommodation or chosen location in London. Next, explore London with your experienced, private guide for 3.5 hours. See major landmarks and discover hidden gems while you listen to your guide share fascinating stories from London's past and present. You can even explore the city's shopping and dining scene. If you are unsure what you want to see, let the planning team help. Your guide is an expert Londoner who will make your visit hassle free. Public transportation passes for your entire group are included for the duration of the tour - our safe and efficient public transport system allows you to skip the traffic.

Sample Itinerary:
At 10am, be welcomed to London by your guide who will meet you in your hotel lobby. Head to the West End and explore Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden. Listen to your guide explain about the Theater District and London's battles as you explore the area. Next, see the Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace - an unforgettable ceremony. View from a secret location, away from the crowds, which will allow you to get close to the guards for great photos and even better memories. March alongside the guards towards Buckingham Palace as the marching band plays.

Later, stroll through St. James's Park, an oasis in the city. Make your way to Horse Guards Parade for photos and see Downing Street - home to the prime minister. In the early afternoon, discover the secrets of WWII hidden under Whitehall, see the Cenotaph (the nation's war memorial) and reach Parliament Square. Now, get your camera out for amazing photos of Big Ben, Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Discover the area's history which spans over 1,000 years and marvel at the wonders of the River Thames and the London Eye.

Finally, before your London experience concludes at a location of your choice, get a unique view of London's skyline from a special area handpicked by your guide. Get tips about great local places to eat nearby, must-visit attractions and where to shop to get a bargain.

Your guide and driver will join you at your departure location of choice, such as your hotel or apartment. Once seated in the comfortable vehicles, relax with air conditioning, and enjoy the sights as your private guide gives you an unforgettable tour of the city.

Your day is completely flexible allowing your to choose what you want to see - if you are unsure, let your guide amaze you! With a separate guide and driver, you can leave the vehicle at any point to explore London's most quaint areas on foot. 

A sample itinerary could include:
Journey through the West End of London, enjoying London's theatre and cinema scene at Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. Enter the Westminster area and take in the wonders of Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the London Eye. Enjoy the breathtaking Changing of the Guard Ceremony with your guide who knows the best secret locations away from the crowds.

Next, stop for a bit of luxury shopping at Bond Street or Harrods, followed by lunch made fresh at a 1000-year-old market or at a 500-year-old authentic London pub. Journey back to the beginning of London and hear about The City and its fascinating stories including the Great Fire and the Plague. All the while, a stopover at St Paul's Cathedral will be sure to amaze you. Cross the Millennium Bridge and see Shakespeare's Globe Theatre.

Finally, conclude the day as you encounter the stunning Tower of London, London Bridge and Tower Bridge, followed by drop-off at your location of choice - a restaurant, museum, your hotel or shopping. Get tips and recommendations for the rest of your stay such as the best places to eat, how long you should spend at the British Museum or what to see and do in Camden.

Instead of browsing  the National Gallery aimlessly, immerse yourself in the techniques and history behind some of the world’s most famous artists with a professional guide. You’ve heard of Van Gogh and da Vinci, but what do you really know about them? Learn about the painters behind the paintings. Browse your favorite works by other masters like Botticelli, Monet, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. If none of those names mean anything to you, that will change by the end of the tour.

The National Gallery houses paintings dating back to the 1300s all the way up through the 1900s, so there is no shortage of choice. Visit Jan van Eyck’s “The Arnolfini Portrait” or something more familiar like Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” to understand the full scope of work on display. Learn essential information and history needed to appreciate the more than 2,300 paintings on display at one of the world’s most visited museums.

Explore a world-class art collection with our energetic guides in the National Gallery. You’ve heard of Seurat and da Vinci, but what do you really know about them? Learn about the painters behind the paintings as we browse our favorite works by other masters like Botticelli, Monet, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. If none of those names mean anything to you, we’ll make sure that changes by the end of the tour.
 
The National Gallery houses paintings dating back to the 1300s all the way up through the 1900s, so there is no shortage of choice. Visit Jan van Eyck’s “The Arnolfini Portrait” or something more familiar like Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” to understand the full scope of work on display. During your private tour, we’ll arm you with the essential information and history needed to appreciate the more than 2300 paintings on display at one of the world’s most visited museums.

After a break for lunch, we will go back to the very beginning of London’s two millennia history in the City, the site of a Roman settlement that became the epicenter of one of the world’s most bustling cities and financial centers. Wander through this tangle of hidden sights to stumble upon the 12th century Temple Church, home to the Knights Templar. Fast-forward through history to discover the medieval Tower of London, home to the beefeaters. Learn about the great fire of 1666 that decimated the city at the Monument before marveling at the domed masterpiece, St. Paul’s Cathedral, rebuilt after the tragedy. You’ll score picturesque views along the Thames, the river spanned by the iconic 19th century Tower Bridge and more modern Millennium Bridge. Your energetic guide will bring London’s long history to life as you weave through the skyscrapers that hide some of its best kept stories.

Trade in paintings for mummies and historical artifacts on a tour of the British Museum. The enormous collection spans 6000 years of human history, featuring items from all over the world including Samurai armor and rare Assyrian lion hunt reliefs. Our guides will take a serious but enjoyable approach towards the museum’s galleries, discussing primitive tribes and fallen empires through a carefully chosen selection of items. You’ll learn about the Mummy of Katebet, the Lewis Chessmen, and the Rosetta Stone – the actual rock, not the language learning program. Walk away with an understanding of what we humans have achieved during our short history and hopefully you’ll be proud to call yourself a part of this incredible species.

On this tour, you will follow in the footsteps of the Romans, who built the nearly 2000 year old wall still visible today. Wander through this tangle of hidden sights to stumble upon the 12th century Temple Church, home to the Knights Templar.

Fast-forward through history to discover the medieval Tower of London, home to the beefeaters. Learn about the great fire of 1666 that decimated the city at the Monument before marveling at the domed masterpiece, St. Paul’s Cathedral, rebuilt after the tragedy.

You’ll see picturesque views along the Thames, the river spanned by the iconic 19th century Tower Bridge and more modern Millennium Bridge. Your energetic guide will bring London’s long history to life as you weave through the skyscrapers that hide some of its best kept stories.

Meet your private guide outside the British Museum at 10am, then step inside to begin your 5-hour tour.

At The British Museum discover valuable treasures such as the Mummy of Katebet, the Oxus Treasure, the Parthenon sculptures, and the Rosetta Stone. During your tour, explore 6,000 years of human history and learn of primitive tribes and mighty empires through the ages.

After lunch (own expense), head onward to the National Gallery Admire works such as Johannes Vermeer’s A Young Woman Standing at a Virginal, Jan van Eyck’s Arnolfini Portrait, or Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, and hear essential details on the meanings behind the works. Explore the galleries and hallways — home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Monet, Rembrandt, and Vermeer — and gain insight into art history dating back to the 14th century.

When your guided visit comes to an end, continue exploring at your leisure or step outside to conclude your tour.

To understand London, you first need to understand its long, complex history. Our expert guides will peel back the layers as you walk past some of the most iconic places in central London like Trafalgar Square and the House of Parliament. Learn about Chaucer at Westminster Abbey or maybe bump into the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street. The tour will pass through the sweeping green parks, bustling crowds, and quaint squares that make up this fascinating urban landscape. Learn about the monarchs and leaders, like Queen Elizabeth II and Winston Churchill, while also taking advantage of your local guide, who will be more than willing to share a few of the city’s best kept secrets as you explore together.

Meet your private guide at 10am or 2pm in east London, then head through the vibrant streets to begin your walking tour. Home to some of the capital’s most talented street artists, east London is alive with etchings, stencils and artwork in all styles and colors.

Explore areas such as Brick Lane, Shoreditch, and Spitalfields Market, and gain insight into their transformation from working-class neighborhoods to trendy centers of fashion and art. Along the way, enjoy a cultural overview of London’s East End — from its troubled years under the control of the Kray Twins to today — and admire diverse street art by the likes of Shepard Fairey and Banksy.

Learn of the origins of Cockney rhyming slang and the rise of hipsters in Shoreditch, stroll past bustling curry houses and stylish galleries, and soak up the atmosphere in this colorful corner of London. When your walking tour comes to an end, wave goodbye to your guide at Shoreditch High Street Station.

Start off your private trip to London with an introduction to culture and civilizations at the monumental collection of the British Museum, spanning 6000 years of human history. It features items from all over the world like Samurai armor and rare Assyrian lion hunt reliefs. Our guides will take a serious but enjoyable approach towards the museum’s galleries, discussing primitive tribes and fallen empires through a carefully chosen selection of items. You’ll learn about the Mummy of Katebet, the Lewis Chessmen, and the Rosetta Stone – the actual rock, not the language learning program. Walk away with an understanding of what we humans have achieved during our short history and hopefully you’ll be proud to call yourself a part of this incredible species.

After a break for lunch, continue with your guide to understand London through its history as you walk through its urban landscape. Our expert guides will peel back the layers as you walk past some of the most iconic places in central London like Trafalgar Square and the House of Parliament. Learn about Chaucer at Westminster Abbey or maybe bump into the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street. The tour will pass through the sweeping green parks, bustling crowds, and quaint squares that define London. Learn about the monarchs and leaders, like Queen Elizabeth II and Winston Churchill, while also taking advantage of your local guide, who will be more than willing to share a few of the city’s best kept secrets as you explore together.

Begin our half day experience by learning about the master painters whose names fill the halls of the National Gallery. It’s a hodgepodge of eras and styles, and we’ll make sense of it for you so that you can appreciate and moreover enjoy this iconic collection. Discover the history and anecdotes behind the works of artists like Da Vinci, Velázquez, and Botticelli. The National Gallery houses paintings dating back to the 1300s all the way up through the 1900s, so there is no shortage of choice. Visit Jan van Eyck’s “The Arnolfini Portrait” or something more familiar like Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” to understand the full scope of work on display. During your private tour, your charming young guide will arm you with the essential information and history needed to appreciate the more than 2300 paintings on display at one of the world’s most visited museums.

After a break for lunch, you will then go on to explore the diverse neighborhood that is the East End. Notorious as the hunting ground of 19th century serial killer Jack the Ripper, it’s now home to London's best street art including Shepard Fairey and Banksy. The East End is a melting pot, alive with contradictions and colorful characters, and we’ll introduce you to our favorite shops and vendors at Spitalfields Market. By the end of the day you’ll understand why London attracts so many upcoming artists.

Your tour will start at your designated pick up point within central London. Once the tour has finished you can either be dropped back to the same location or to one of your choosing within Central London. 

The 3 hour tour would take in: Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, Wellington Arch and Horse Guards.
The 4 hour tour would take in: St Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament (inc. Big Ben) and Westminster Abbey.

The 6 hour tour would take in:  The Tower of London, St Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament (inc. Big Ben) and Westminster Abbey. This tour option includes a 45 minute break.

Please note: all tours are traffic permitting

This private evening walking tour of classic London attractions starts in the heart of London; follow the Thames River from east to west, taking in the great sights of the British capital before ending your tour with a fish and chips dinner.

London's impact on world history and culture is second to no other city on Earth. London has seen Celts, Romans, Anglo-Saxons and Normans, and now people from across the world come and leave their mark on the capital, creating a uniquely varied city of amazing contrasts. Roman walls sit next to Norman castles, Victorian Bridges next to towering glass skyscrapers, and through it all runs the great River Thames.

The city’s 2,000 years of history will come to life as you pass the remains of Roman London and the 1,000-year-old Tower of London, and cross one of the most recognizable bridges in the world, Tower Bridge.

As you walk, your expert guide will recount stories that put in context such London sights as London Bridge, Borough Market, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, the Tate Modern, St Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

While the guided walk is in no way strenuous, you’ll work up an appetite for a classic London dinner of fish and chips; a firm British favorite for more than 150 years, consisting of a piece of cod, deep-fried in a beer batter so that it’s soft and succulent in the middle with a crisp shell, served with thick, perfectly cooked chips and tartar sauce. You will enjoy your dinner in one of London’s best fish and chip shops, an authentic, off-the-beaten-path place that stays true to the dish's working-class origins.

Arrange your private pub tour and let the charismatic pub tour leader take care of the rest! The tour normally starts around 3pm. Your guide is an expert on the London pub scene, beer and alcohol history as well as local architecture and British customs (having written books on all five subjects). The guide is a former Beer Sommeliers of the Year and makes regular appearances on British television and radio to discuss the subject.

Visit four delightful pubs within the historic City of London at Holborn, Black Friars, and Fleet Street - each one unique and full of history. Visit a Victorian gin palace; an art nouveau public house that resembles a medieval hall and is the only one of its kind in the world; plus a Restoration ale-house – rebuilt in 1667 after it burned down in the Great Fire of London.

Your group will sit down for a complimentary half-pint in each London pub to soak up the atmosphere, and listen to fascinating anecdotes relating to the pubs and surrounding areas. A half-pint of beer or cider per person in each pub is included in the tour price, and your expert guide is happy to recommend which beer or cider to choose. A mini-tutored tasting will be given, advising on the aroma, flavor and body of your chosen ale.

If you're looking for a private tour which includes history, fun and character to go with your pint, then this is the perfect tour for you.

Start your private tour with a pickup at your centrally located London hotel between 9am and 9pm. Alternatively, simply meet your private guide in the center of the city London. Then, hop into your restored Mini Cooper and set off through the streets.

Zoom along London’s famous thoroughfares in your classic Mini Cooper and take in top sites of interest such as the Houses of Parliament, The Shard, or St. Paul's Cathedral. Along the way, find out what really makes London swing!

With your private guide at the wheel, spin off the tourist route to corners of the capital only the locals know. Perhaps explore London’s street art scene in Leake Street, wind around the historic backstreets of Covent Garden, or soak up the atmosphere in local markets like the Borough Farmers’ Market.

After two hours exploring the streets and sites of London, conclude your tour back in the city center or at your hotel.

Choose between a half-day or full-day private tour, and then relax as your expert guide drives you around the city for an in-depth look at the British monarchy. Sites visited on the half-day tour are only seen from the outside, so if you’re eager to see more and really follow in the footsteps of the British Royal Family then book the full-day tour instead! Entry to each attraction will be at your own expense, but your expert guide will show you around and explain the history once inside.

See where Britain’s current monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, was born, and then visit her residence at Buckingham Palace before seeing Westminster Abbey – the site of her coronation. Look out for the shops and stores that hold prestigious Royal Warrants, like Fortnum & Mason, as your driver heads through the city center streets.

Around the city are various statues of famous royals, and your expert guide will point these out as you pass them. See statues of Henry VIII, Alfred the Great and George V – the king whose famous speech impediment was documented in the hit British film, The King’s Speech (featuring Colin Firth). Visit top London attractions like the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament hear how the royals have influenced them over the ages.

Learn about the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and find out who actually lives in each of London’s royal palaces. Hear how royal etiquette dictates how one should greet the Queen, and about the monarchy’s protocols and famously ‘stiff upper lip.’

During your tour your expert guide will be there to answer any questions you may have about the royals and the Queen’s 60 years of sovereignty: Why does the Changing of the Guard ceremony take place? Why does the Queen have two birthdays? What is her correct title? All these questions and more will be answered as Royal London unveils on this private black taxi tour.

Choose between a 3-hour, 4-hour or full-day tour and explore London’s Downton Abbey filming locations with a private guide. Start your tour with a central hotel pickup by London black cab, and meet your professional driver-guide. Settle into your comfortable vehicle and listen to interesting insider facts and insights into the making of the Downton Abbey series and plans for future seasons. Designed to be fun and entertaining rather than a serious historical exploration, this family-friendly tour is a fantastic way to see London through the eyes of the Granthams. Be sure to book early, though — the tour is hugely popular!

Travel deep into the historical heart of London, delving into the prestigious districts of Westminster, Belgravia, Mayfair and the City — all regular haunts of English gentry in the early 1900s. Pause outside the house that served as the Granthams’ family home and see where Harold, the maverick American brother of Cora Crawley, had a picnic with love interest, Madeline, and his mother Martha in the Christmas Special of Season 4.

Pass by the restaurants and gentlemen’s clubs, such as Boodle’s and White’s, Lord Grantham might have frequented. Also, step daintily out of your cab to visit some of the shops where the aristocratic Lord and Lady Grantham might have bought their clothes and hunting regalia. And, discover from your guide how London’s poor lived at the time, often in cramped districts just a few steps from the genteel areas known to families such as the Granthams.

If you have opted to enjoy a 4-hour tour, spend an additional hour exploring more buildings and shops featured in Downton Abbey. Alternatively, select the full-day tour option to include a visit to the grounds of the Granthams’ London home (entry to the house not included) and lunch (own expense) in a 500-year-old Tudor hall that has been frequented by the capital’s elites for centuries.

Your tour finishes when your driver drops you at a convenient central London location.

Please note: all tour options include coffee breaks (own expense), restroom stops, and complimentary water. Depending on availability and group size, you might end up in an old-style black cab or a newer black cab. The maximum passengers per taxi is six.

This private black taxi tour, ideal for the whole family, takes you to both London’s most famous sites and its hidden treasures. Enjoy a comfortable drive around London in a traditional black taxi and stop at each landmark for a photograph and a historical explanation. Visit Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament and much more!

While driving through London in your private taxi, you'll also stop and see many of London’s hidden treasures -- places that "normal" tourists never get to see! Wander through alleyways and hear tales of murder and mystery! See the smallest house in London, the smallest square in town, explore Henry VIII’s cow shed and see his tennis court. Visit shops that are over 300 years old and still trading and see a house with false windows, a Roman Bath, a medieval banquet hall and Winston Churchill’s own cigar chair!
Upgrade your private black taxi tour to include an extra hour of sightseeing and discover even more hidden treasures of London!

Arriving in a typical London black taxi, your private driver will collect you from your central London hotel, and then you’ll be on your way. Relaxing in the black cab’s comfortable seats, sit back and watch the festive lights of London pass by as your friendly driver tells you all you need to know about Christmas in this great city.

Your 2.5-hour tour takes in several London neighborhoods, each with their own character and charm. Pass through the upmarket boroughs of Chelsea, Kensington, Mayfair and Belgravia, and see their glossy shops boasting tantalizing Christmas window displays. Each area has its own Christmas light display, and you’ll stop at each to walk around and see them up close while your driver tells you about the history of these much-loved traditions.

In central London, visit several key city attractions. Drive past Westminster, home to the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and see the London Eye, Tower of London and London Bridge, all beautifully illuminated with a warm wintery glow.

Continue to the shopping haunts of Regent Street and Oxford Street, where you’ll see the most impressive Christmas light displays in London! Take a walk around these fashionable high streets, packed with Christmas shoppers and twinkling lights – perfect for a nighttime photo op!

Your tour will either finish back at your hotel or at one of London’s popular Christmas markets – the choice is yours! Perhaps end at the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – the largest Christmas attraction in London, featuring an outdoor ice rink, Christmas market, fun-fair and more. Entry is at your own expense, but it’s a great way to end your evening – strolling around with a mulled wine or visiting Santa’s grotto.

Start the tour with a pickup from your centrally located hotel. Flying around London (by taxi not broomstick) see the exterior of Gringotts Bank and walk over the Knight Bus bridge. Walk the avenue to the Leaky Cauldron from the first film, stand at the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron from the third film, and take a photo outside the Third Hand Book Emporium.

See the bridge destroyed by Death Eaters in film number six. Follow Harry's complete fifth film flight on his broomstick along the River Thames. See Grimmauld Place, which really does exist, if you know where to look. No moving houses though. See where Harry actually disappears at Kings Cross Station Platform 9¾.
 Get a photo under the sign.

Then, it's off to see where Harry and Ron steal the flying car from. Walk the footsteps of Harry and Mr Weasley to the Ministry of Magic and take a photo inside the train station used for exiting to the Ministry. See where Ron spies on the ministry and the entrance to the ministry. Your expert Harry Potter guide (really they are experts) will take you to all of these sites and more. Follow Harry's flight along the River Thames (river boat tickets can be purchased for after the tour).

Not a Harry fan, don't worry, this tour has something for all the family. As you drive around London your guide who is not only a Harry expert but a registered tour guide will point out and explain London's history to you. So you have two tours in one. This tour is  family and child friendly. Be prepared for fun, fantasy and surprises galore, for the children and all the family.

Note: This tour does not visit the studios.

Enjoy the ultimate sightseeing and Harry Potter tour in London, mingle with the Muggles all day! This is an all day London sightseeing tour with Harry Potter's London film sites included. Fantastic fun and value for the whole family, this is the best of both worlds!

London Sightseeing- your guided tour takes you past many of the major sights and landmarks of London. We will see and get photos outside, Westminster Abbey,  Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus and Eros.  Downing Street, Harrods, London Eye, the Tower of London,(exterior only)  visit Shakespeare's Globe theatre and some Hidden treasures in London that very few visitors get to see!

Harry Potter- during this wonderful London day tour we shall enter the world of Harry Potter and see the following: visit Gringotts Bank (exterior only) walk over the Knight Bus bridge. Walk the avenue to the Leaky Cauldron(film 1). Stand at the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron (film No 3) have a photo outside Third Hand book emporium. See the bridge which is destroyed by Death Eaters. Follow Harry's complete flight  along the River Thames on his broomstick.  Visit Grimmauld Place (yes it does exist if you know where to look. No moving houses though) See where Harry actually disappears at Kings Cross Station Platform 9 ¾ . See photos taken of the PROPS used in the station scenes.

Then it's off to get a picture under the sign 9 ¾. See where Harry and Ron steal the flying car from. Take a photo inside the train station used for exiting to the Ministry of Magic. Walk the footsteps of Harry and Mr Weasley to the Ministry of Magic. See where Ron spies on the ministry. Your expert Harry guide will take you to all of these sites and more. On route there is time to ask many questions regarding the films, there is even a small quiz to keep you on your toes.

Also included are scenes from film 7 parts 1 and 2. You will also be shown places from earlier films that ended up on the cutting room floor. As if this was not enough you will visit some secret places, items and enjoy surprises that you will love! During the tour you will have time to purchase genuine Harry Potter merchandise, just ask your guide. This is a great unique fun tour for all the family.

Arriving in a classic London black taxi, your private driver will collect you from your central London hotel, and then you’ll be on your way. Relaxing in the black cab’s comfortable seats, sit back and watch the sights of London pass by as your friendly driver tells you about this fantastic city – from above and below!

While the skyline of London is rightly famous, not so many know about the city’s network of subterranean tunnels – almost comprising a city in their own right! On a route around central London, stop to explore some of these fascinating tunnels underneath the River Thames, and visit an underground church crypt. Hear about the tunnels’ uses during Victorian times and learn about the secret passageways that were said to be used in the world wars.

After exploring below ground, head back into the daylight to continue your journey around central London. Climb the 31-step staircase inside the Monument to the Great Fire of London (or simply, ‘the Monument,’ as Londoners know it) and then head to the City of London for an incredible view of the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral.

Marvel at Westminster’s skyline from the top of a tower inside Westminster Cathedral (extra charge) and see top London attractions like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from this panoramic vantage point. Your tour also includes a tantalizing sight of the River Thames as you cross above it by the new Thames Cable Car (extra charge) that connects London’s Royal Docks to the Royal Borough of Greenwich, on the south side of the river. After four hours of seeing London’s sights from above and below, your tour finishes back at your central hotel.

Start your experience with a hotel pickup by traditional London black cab, and meet your friendly driver who doubles up as your personal guide. Relax in one of the cab’s comfortable seats, and listen to tales and trivia about the Doctor Who TV series as you travel west out of the city, along the motorway to the Welsh capital.

After roughly 3 hours on the road, work your way into central Cardiff to see all the Doctor Who sights. Pass the American cafe where the Doctor regularly meets his friends, and visit the places where Captain Jack Harkness from the Torchwood Institute — an extraterrestrial-fighting team — and the Doctor puzzled over weird and wonderful events.

Having seen the fictional character of the Face of Boe (‘played’ by a giant mechanical head), loop past the houses of the Doctor’s two trusted sidekicks: Amy and Rory Pond. From the residential neighborhoods, travel back into the city center and head inside the Doctor Who Experience at Cardiff Bay.

Enter the interactive exhibition at your own expense, and then explore with your guide, seeing a collection of original costumes alongside other attention-grabbing memorabilia and Doctor Who artifacts. Watch a short film about the series, and then become the Doctor’s assistant on a walk through the TARDIS time machine. Step through a crack in the wall, battle with the Doctor’s enemies and gasp in awe at the special effects that line your route. Finish by posing for a photo against a giant screen, displaying your choice of background.

Take a break for lunch (own expense), and then sightsee around Cardiff some more, seeing the wedding setting of Amy and Rory Pond besides others. Learn about Rose Tyler, played by British celebrity Billie Piper, while passing her place of work. You can stop for a quick snack before you make your way out of the city, traveling back along the motorway.

Head west of London for a day of Downton Abbey sightseeing! After pickup from your central London hotel in a spacious luxury vehicle, your private tour guided by a professional chauffeur will take you out to Highclere Castle, known to Downton Abbey fans as the home of the Earl of Grantham and his aristocratic family. Highclere is used for both exterior and interior filming for the show. If you think the castle is stunning on television, you’ll be absolutely amazed by its appearance in person as you admire its stately Jacobethan style and dramatic façade.

Next, continue following the Crawley family and their servants as you make the drive to Bampton, a village in Oxfordshire where many outdoor scenes of the fictional village of Downton were filmed. Admire the well-preserved village with its charming main street and historical buildings, some of which date to the 12th century.

Your day tour ends as you are returned to your London hotel.

Please note: Entrance fees to the grounds and gardens of Highclere Castle are included in the booking price, however, entrance fees into the castle and exhibition are not included due to limited availability.

Make your own way to the helipad in Battersea, central London, and then head inside the helicopter center to enjoy a safety briefing. Follow your pilot into your waiting helicopter, and relax in your seat (either beside the pilot or in the row of seats to the rear), while watching the sights of London take center stage.

In no time at all, most of London’s legendary landmarks are visible. Listen to your pilot pointing out the big-name sights as you soar through the skies, and gaze down at Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Green Park. While following the meandering Thames River through the city, look out for more top London attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, The Shard, Olympic Stadium, Wembley Stadium and more.

If you want to know something about a specific central London sight, just let your pilot know. Your private tour allows for more flexible commentary than on a standard tour, so feel free to ask questions about the city and its sights. Loop back along the Thames River for a second look and spot anything you missed on the first pass, before gliding back to Battersea.

Having enjoyed twenty minutes in the air, touch down at the start point where your helicopter experience finishes.

Choose the departure time most convenient for you, and then meet your private driver-guide at the prearranged location in central London. Settle into your seat inside a Morris Minor convertible — a classic car that burst onto the British motoring scene in the late 1940s — and set off on your tour of London’s world-famous landmarks.
Sit back and soak up the buzzing atmosphere as you’re chauffeured through London’s most recognizable areas. If you’ve upgraded to include a bottle of Champagne, pop the cork and sip on a glass of bubbles as you listen to your driver-guide’s insightful commentary on the capital’s biggest attractions.
Gaze out of the window, taking in top attractions such as Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye.
Continue on to 10 Downing Street, home to Britain's Prime Minister, and see the royal sights of the Pall Mall, St James’ Palace and the Horse Guards Parade.
Then, find yourself on the bustling shopping strips of Regent Street, South Morton Street and Jermyn Street.
After roughly an hour, your tour finishes near your original start point.
Please note: Morris Minors are small in comparison to most of today’s cars, so with comfort in mind, bookings are only accepted for a maximum of three people per car.

Taking in sights of London under the sun, and then more atmospheric images as the sun goes down, you will enjoy all the very best London has to offer with your personal, professional photographic guide. We will lead you to superb photographic opportunities for all kinds of subjects, from landmarks and people watching to hidden secrets and great views over the city, all the while offering practical tips and helping you to develop your own creative vision.

Each tour is crafted to the skills and needs of the participants. Apart from taking photos, you can also expect to learn:
Creative composition, using lines, repetition, camera angles
Training your eye: composition, subjects, lighting
Taking control of your camera: f-stop, shutter speed, ISO and focusing
Night photography basics
Light painting
Night portraiture - getting the most out of your flash
Long exposure light streaking - cars, boats
Reviewing your photography

Each tour is private, but feel free to bring along guests, such as other photographer friends or your partner and family, but we ask you limit the group to four people. This way we can work at your pace to make sure you take away the skills that last a lifetime.

This 3-hour private tour will take you through the centre of London, taking in sites such as Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, the London Eye, Trafalgar Square and the maze of streets making up the Soho district and Piccadilly Circus. All perfect places to captivate your camera after dark. Whether you are an old hat to London, or just are fascinated with a different neighbourhood, this tour can be customised to suit your needs.

You'll begin each tour in a cafe (coffee provided) where you will explore your level of skill so the tour can be designed for your level of experience and your specific interests. Whether you are a well-worn shooter or this is your first camera, you'll learn tricks and techniques for taking envy-inducing images.

Every tour is privately booked so you won’t be sharing your time and attention with strangers, however, feel free to bring along friends and family. All our guides are experienced locals and have plenty of historical stories to tell to help keep the less photographically inclined entertained.

You're guaranteed to have an experience of London you will love, images that will wow your family and friends and skills that will last a lifetime.

This 3-hour private tour will take you through the center of London, taking in sites such as Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, the London Eye, Trafalgar Square and the maze of streets making up the Soho district and Piccadilly Circus. Whether you are an old hat to London, or just are fascinated with a different neighborhood, this tour can be customized to suit your needs.

You'll begin each tour in a cafe (coffee provided) where you will explore your level of skill so the tour can be designed for your level of experience and your specific interests. Whether you are a well-worn shooter or this is your first camera, you'll learn tricks and techniques for taking envy inducing images.

During the tour you can expect to learn:
Composition, use of lines and angles
Learning how to find your images
Exploring your camera: how to use and understand; f-stop, shutter speed, ISO and more
How to make the perfect exposure in Manual mode
A friendly evaluation of your work

Every tour is privately booked so you won’t be sharing your time and attention with strangers, however feel free to bring along friends and family. All our guides are experienced locals and have plenty of historical stories to tell to help keep the less photographically inclined entertained.

You're guaranteed to have an experience of London you will love, images that will wow your family and friends and skills that will last a lifetime.

Meet your private guide near Westminster Tube Station, or start your tour with a pickup at your centrally located London hotel. Then, head through the heart of London to begin your 3-hour walking tour.

Stroll past Westminster and the Houses of Parliament and — if you’re lucky — hear Big Ben chiming in the tower. Discover famous landmarks including Horse Guards Parade, the Prime Minister's home on Downing Street, and Westminster Abbey — widely considered among the finest historic buildings in London.

Admire memorials to wars fought in foreign lands, then soak up the atmosphere in bustling Trafalgar Square — home to the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column. Head onward though Covent Garden and China Town to Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, then amble through Green Park to the gates of Buckingham Palace.

When your walking tour comes to an end, return in comfort to Westminster Tube Station or your London hotel.

Meet your private guide at the time of your choosing at your centrally located London hotel or Westminster Tube Station. Then, head onward to 221B Baker Street — the famous fictional address of Holmes and now home to the Sherlock Holmes Museum.

On arrival, visit the house (own expense) and explore rooms left as they would have been during Holmes’ residency. After your visit, perhaps browse Sherlock Holmes memorabilia at the neighboring store.

Continue onward through central London and discover sites made famous in Sherlock, the BBC television adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous tales. Perhaps visit Russell Square to see where John Watson met the old friend that would change his life forever, or go to New Scotland Yard — headquarters of the Metropolitan Police on historic Whitehall.

See the exact spot where Holmes jumps — or falls — to his supposed death in the Sherlock cliff-hanger episode ‘The Reichenbach Fall’, then return in comfort to your London hotel to conclude your tour.

Meet your private guide in central London in the morning, or enjoy a handy morning pickup at your hotel. Then, take a seat in your vehicle for the onward journey out of the city to Stratford-upon-Avon — nestled in the Warwickshire countryside.

On arrival, explore sites of interest associated with Shakespeare’s life such as his birthplace and burial ground, the thatched cottage of Anne Hathaway — his wife — and the walled gardens of Hall’s Croft, where his daughter lived.

Along the way, admire fine views over the half-timbered Tudor houses for which Stratford-upon-Avon is famous, and gain insight into life here in Shakespeare’s day.

When your time in Stratford-upon-Avon comes to an end, return in comfort to your London hotel to conclude your tour.

Meet your private guide in central London in the morning, or start your tour with a pickup at your London hotel. Then, take a seat in your vehicle and relax on the onward journey to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed city of Bath.

On arrival, explore the pretty streets as your private guide sheds light on over 2,000 years of Bath history — from the Roman era to today. Along the way, admire fine examples of Georgian architecture such as the famous 18th-century Royal Crescent.

Discover stylish boutiques among the historic markets, and take in top city attractions like the restored Roman Baths and Pump House. Learn how the city’s thermal waters attracted the Romans and stroll along original Roman streets.

Next, travel onward to the Salisbury Plains, home to the UNESCO–listed stone circle of Stonehenge — widely considered among the world’s most fascinating prehistoric sites. Learn of the stones’ mysteries in the state-of-the-art Vistors’ Centre, then take the short shuttle journey to the stones themselves.

Walk around the ancient stone circle and perhaps decide for yourself the reasons for its creation. Soak up the spiritual atmosphere, then transfer back to your London hotel via the beautiful Wiltshire countryside.

With a hotel pickup around 9am depending on your location, this private tour sets off in a comfortable new Audi vehicle. Your guide and driver for the day oversees every aspect of all tours personally so you can be assured for a flexible and friendly professional service.

We will arrive at Chartwell around 10.30am after which we can explore some of the wonderful gardens of Chartwell House, some of which designed and created by Sir Winston Churchill himself. Around 11.30am you will get to go inside Chartwell House, exploring the rooms and seeing the house as it was when the Churchill family lived here. During the visit there is the opportunity to see treasures and memorabilia from around the world that were gifted to the leader of the free-world.

Chartwell House as a lovely cafe/restaurant which isn't included in the price but the chance to experience a cream tea and scone shouldn't be overlooked or perhaps a visit to Churchills Art Studio with dozens of his paintings on display is better if you're watching your figure.  Churchill would no doubt have a few words to say on that subject! Finally the drive back to the starting point and you should be back around 3-3.30pm.

This private walking tour will transport you back to the dark and chilling world of the Whitechapel Murders in East London. Follow in the footsteps of the notorious and never identified Jack the Ripper.

During the autumn of 1888, Jack the Ripper murdered, at least, five women with several other horrendous killings before and afterwards that may or may not have been carried out at the hands of the man voted The Worst Briton of All Time. Explore the old streets of Whitechapel on this private 2 hour day-time tour.

Whitechapel has changed a lot in the 126 years since Jack by luck, deviousness and opportunity wrought terror in the middle of the biggest city in the world and yet escaped time after time.  However much remains the same too and we will visit the landmarks of Whitechapel; the pubs that both Jack and his victims frequented, the lanes and alleyways where Jack stalked his victims and visit the precise spots of some of these dastardly crimes.  We’ll also visit the place where he left his only two clues which even now may be giving away his true identity.

As well walking in the footsteps of history, you will learn about the myths and truths of Jack the Ripper and the hear of the awful social conditions that the poor and ladies of Whitechapel had to survive in.

Meet your guide at Aldgate East tube station.  Your private group or even brave individual will retread the cobblestones of the East End of London. This tour is especially for those of you who want to do something different in London and don’t fancy walking Whitechapel at night or in a large group. You will also get to see how vibrant the area is now with its amazing street art and markets.

You’ll learn what living in the East End was like in those days and visit what remains of Dorset Street, pivotal to the Jack the Ripper story and once the worst street in London and so bad that it now barely exists at all.  See awful conditions that the residents, women and men alike had to endure.  Discover the lucky breaks that Jack had and the misconceptions that the Police had of what the world’s first and still most feared serial killer would be like.  Some of the buildings have changed; the streets may have new names, but the horror remains!

This private tour and pilgrimage takes you to the holy village of Walsingham to visit both the Roman Catholic and Anglican shrines and other related sites. You’ll explore the abbey ruins and the village, and have time to shop for religious items.

Take a pilgrimage to the holy village of Walsingham, located in the county of Norfolk, a world away from the hustle and bustle of London. Travel by private car through the Thetford Forest on the way to Walsingham on this full-day guided tour and pilgrimage. The tour lasts around 6-7 hours including travel time.

At one time Walsingham was one of the most visited sites in Europe. The village has been considered a holy place for more than 1,000 years, dating to a time when the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared and instructed that a replica of the house of Jesus in the Holy Land be reconstructed here. Today, it is more popular than it has been in centuries.

You’ll visit the Roman Catholic shrine and adjoining chapels before exploring Walsingham village, a beautiful and quiet place that’s home to a ruined abbey, an Orthodox church, the Anglican church and shrine as well and several shops that sell mementos such as incense and prayer beads. On this very leisurely and relaxed day, the tour ends when you’re happy that you’ve seen what you wanted to see, given the time available.

Walsingham is 2.5 hour drive from the edge of London and so to maximise the day and shorten the travel time, this tour departs from Watford Station which by tube is only 25 minutes from central London.

Walking in Shoreditch you see instantly the vibrant and colourful nature of London's East End. Street Art covers walls, buildings railings and lamp posts. The Street Art in Shoreditch is a dynamic everchanging landscape of colour as new street art is created daily. Learn how to photograph street art famous the world over. A professional Fine Art Photographer shows you the best locations and viewpoints to capture these amazing street scenes. Discover new ways to photograph street art by world famous street artists such as Roa, Eine, Stik and Shepard Fairey. We make our way on foot and discover Brick Lane, colourful shop fronts, art galleries and the people of this fascinating part of the East End. Improve your photography skills with one to one tuition for you or exclusive teaching for your group, from your personal photographer. This private photography tour is geared towards the camera you own.

This Street Art Photography Tour is a unique experience of the East End as you are shown how to experience the street scenes through the eyes of a professional Fine Art Photographer. Learn how to take photographs you are proud of which capture your visit to London in a creative and unique way.

We take a short working break for light refreshments and to review photographs. We also review images at regular intervals during the Photography Tour.

Learn how to:

• Compose a street scene
• Use colour in your photographs
• Integrate people in the Street Art
• Create unique images
• Use depth of field to add creative effects
• Use shutter speed to create different effects
• Understand light and how to use it effectively
• Photograph people and places of the East End
• Improve photography skills through understanding your camera

Discover UNESCO-listed Maritime Greenwich on this private 2-hour photography tour that's suitable for cameras, tablets, and smartphones. Under the guidance of a professional photographer, your private group will learn new ways to compose your shots and capture the moment as you snap captivating scenes from the Cutty Sark clipper to olde-worlde pubs and shingle-clad beaches.

Your professional photographer guide will meet you near the Cutty Sark clipper at the chosen start time, and find out what you and your group want to learn: be sure all devices are fully charged the night before. After an introduction to lighting, composition, or whatever your group is focused on learning, you'll capture this 19th-century sailing ship in all her glory.

After, you'll make your way along the Thames Path, photographing outstanding river views. Take time to explore the historical surroundings of Greenwich Pier before stopping off in the grounds of the 18th-century Old Royal Naval College to immortalise its outstanding architecture and sense of place and history. Your guide will offer tips on composition as you go.

Continue along the Thames Path and discover quirky alleyways with cobbled streets and quaint houses. Photograph the dome of the O2 Arena from across the river and admire its position in the London skyline. Pass olde-worlde pubs with statues of seafarers like Lord Nelson, discover deserted river beaches covered in sand and shingle, and capture boats and ships on the River Thames. Don't neglect to photograph Trinity Hospital, which dates from 1616 and is the oldest building in Greenwich.

You'll finish your tour by the Cutty Sark pub, just a short walk from Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich DLR. 

This is an exceptional photography tour which is private to you and your group. Photograph London with an expert photographer during this private tour. Learn how to capture the best compositions with a professional photographer to guide you.

The aim of this tour is to empower your photography with expert tuition and tips from a professional photographer. Teaching is exclusive to you and your group and is geared towards the camera you own. Your photographer knows the best locations and viewpoints to guide you to.

Walking at a leisurely pace explore from the outside the iconic architecture of Southwark Cathedral. Learn how to set your camera to take different shots and make subjects come alive as you experiment with different angles of view.  Marvel at the vibrancey of Bankside as we make our way along the route towards St Paul's Cathedral.  Throughout this route there is something to admire and photograph.

Photograph people and places along this colourful route.  Explore the imposing structures of the Golden Hind Galleon II, The Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, the Shard, Tower Bridge and Millennium Bridge all with stunning views over the River Thames. This is an outstanding photography tour from which to explore and discover the secrets of the River Thames with great London views and iconic landmarks.

Take time to discover the landscaped courtyards of Southwark and St Paul's Cathedrals.  Explore with your personal photographer quirky side streets and small markets and small landscaped gardens within walking distance of the Cathedrals.

You take a short working break for refreshments and to review progress before making our way across to St Paul's.

Explore the luminous landscape of London at night and learn how to get great night photography shots with ease. The aim of this tour is to empower your night photography with expert tuition and tips from a professional fine art photographer. Teaching is exclusive to you and is geared towards the camera you own. Your photographer knows the best locations and viewpoints to guide you to.

Walking at a leisurely pace along London's South Bank explore the London skyline at night.  Take time to photograph the iconic structure of the London Eye as it rotates slowly on the skyline. Learn how to set your camera to capture slow exposures which make the London Eye come alive.  Learn how to set your camera to take different exposure times to change how your photographs look. Experiment with different angles of view to make unique impressive images.  Marvel at the vibrancy of the London skyline as we make our way along the route towards the Millennium Bridge to photograph outstanding views of the River Thames and Westminster.

Photograph people and places along this colourful route.  Explore the imposing structures of the Royal Festival Hall as it is illuminated at night. Admire and view the London Eye from across the River Thames from the Victoria Embankment.  Look towards Big Ben and photograph the iconic clock face on St Stephen's Tower.  This is an outstanding photography tour from which to explore and discover the secrets of night photography using the River Thames with fantastic London views and iconic landmarks.  During warm summer months explore low light and twilight photography.

This is an exceptional photography tour which is private to you and your group. Photograph London with an expert photographer during a this private tour. Learn how to capture the best compositions with a professional photographer to guide you.

The aim of this tour is to empower your photography with expert tuition and tips from a professional photographer. Teaching is exclusive to you and your group and is geared towards the camera you own. Your photographer knows the best locations and viewpoints to guide you to.

Walking at a leisurely pace explore the world famous fountains, statues and pigeons of Trafalgar Square. Learn how to set your camera to make sculptures like the Landseer Lions in Trafalgar Square come alive. Marvel at the imposing architecture of the National Gallery. Taking time to photograph a variety of different compositions from a new perspective you make your way to Leicester Square which is home of Movie Premiers and famous for red carpet walk about by Tom Cruise. From there you walk through quirky side streets and small shops with "olde worlde" charm. Photograph red telephone boxes and the Statue of Eros at Piccadilly Circus. See the banners which fly high over Regent's Street. Throughout this route there is something to admire and photograph.

You take a short working break for refreshments and to review progress. Then make your way to Admiralty Arch, Horseguards Parade and Whitehall. You pass horseguards and sentries and marvel at their splendour and colourful uniforms. You pass the Cabinet War Rooms and statues which pay homage to the Women of the Second World War. From here you explore one of the finest London Tube Signs of Westminster. You arrive at Westminster and photograph the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the many fine statures of Parliament Square including Winston Churchill, Ghandi and Nelson Mandela.

During the Private London Photography Tour learn how to;

• improve composition
• use light to its best advantage
• use depth of field
• create blurred backgrounds
• use shutter speed to create movement
• use shutter speed to freeze action

Enjoy a private photography tour as a professional photographer photographs you! Get the best photographs of you and your group of your trip to London. You don't need a camera for this tour as you are photographed by your personal photographer who exquisitely photographs you.

Locations include many London Classic Monuments; Trafalgar Square, Fountains, National Gallery, Westminster, Big Ben and Royal Horseguards. Be photographed along the tour route in front of red phone boxes, outside tube stations and famous statues and monuments. It's up to you how you want the photographs to look. Choose from street style, fun loving style or classically posed. The locations include as many iconic landmarks as possible. Your personal photographer discusses this with you at the start of the tour and brings out the best in you.

30 top quality photographs and post processing of images are included. Each guest downloads the photos from Dropbox. They are ready in 7-10 days. Professional DSLRs and lenses are used to ensure professional quality.

Photograph British heritage and tradition in Trafalgar Square- home of the world famous Landseer Lions, National Gallery, mermaid sculptures, elegant fountains and many fine statues and monuments. Capture street entertainers and pavement artists who create colorful chalk drawings for you to photograph and admire.

Walking at a leisurely pace you make your way to Leicester Square and photograph the gardens, the fountains and a great statue of William Shakespeare whose presence dominates the gardens. You take a short working break for refreshments (own expense) and to review progress. Then make your way to Chinatown, your expert photographer guides you to the best view points to photograph the colourful landscape of Chinatown. Marvel at colorful shop fronts full of exotic foods and delicacies. Be amazed by stalls crammed with colorful novelties and lanterns. You take your time to photograph the rich and authentic colors of Chinatown before making your way to Covent Garden. Explore the architecture of the Royal Opera House, quirky side streets and street entertainers before making your way to the extraordinary and colorful Neal’s Yard. At all times your personal photographer is there to guide and help you take outstanding photographs.

During the Private London Photography Tour learn how to:

• improve composition

• use light to its best advantage

• use depth of field

• create blurred backgrounds

• use shutter speed to create movement

• use shutter speed to freeze action

Photograph the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and St Paul's Cathedral from across the River Thames. Be amazed by the imposing structure of the London Eye, Palace of Westminster and Royal Festival Hall. Marvel at historic architecture and buildings which form the city landscape of the South Bank, incorporating the beautiful colors of Westminster Bridge into your photographs. Explore the vibrancy of the South Bank and photograph street entertainers, musicians and market stalls which are part of this exciting landscape.  Working in a traffic free zone we take our time to learn how to get the best out of your camera. Your expert photographer will get you to the best viewpoints to take photographs to be proud of.

Take a short working break for light refreshments (own expense) and to review progress. Photographs are also reviewed regularly during the tour. Take home photographs and memories to cherish a lifetime. You can also use what you learned to help you get better photographs for the rest of your trip.

During the South Bank Photography Walking Tour Learn How To;

• Compose a subject

• Use aperture value and depth of field

• Use shutter speed for different subjects

• Use lenses for different shots

• Use light to its advantage

• Get the best from the camera you own

• And much more...

Your private guide will collect you from the lobby of your hotel. You can discuss the flexible itinerary before you set off. You will have the chance to see may famous locations around London.

Watch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony in front of Buckingham Palace. Continue to Westminster Abbey, final resting place of kings, queens, poets and statesmen.

Admire architectural details of the former Benedictine monastery, including the stone cloisters, Chapter House and Strong Room.
Enjoy the views of Big Ben and the marvelous Houses of Parliament.

Then, walk up Whitehall, past the Banqueting House and No.10 Downing Street residence of the Prime Minister. Finally arrive at Trafalgar Square and you can visit the National Gallery.

Visit the Tower of London (entry not included) to discover its history on a 2 to 3 hours private tour. See the Crown Jewels of the Royal Family, and more. See priceless treasures of the British monarchy, including the Imperial State Crown, worn by the Queen Elizabeth at each State Opening of Parliament. Marvel at the diamond of the Sovereign’s Sceptre the largest colorless cut diamond in the world.

Enjoy a visit of the White Tower, the oldest part of the Tower of London and see the fortress built by William the Conqueror between 1070 and 1100. Be amazed by diamond-encrusted weapons and suits of armour.

The Tower was once used as a zoo, you will see sculptures of exotic animals like the ones that were presented as royal gifts to be kept in the Royal Menagerie. Finally, see the permanent Tower of London exhibitions and find out the story of the Tower as a working Mint.

Meet your guide at Westminster tube station. You will then make your way to see the Ministry of Magic and filming locations used in the Harry Potter films. Would you like to see Leaky Cauldron pub and the Honeyduke's shop? You will take a double-decker bus to see the wizards bank run by goblins. Interior shots for the movies were filmed here featuring Gringotts. There will be a few opportunities to see the Leadenhall Market and Diagon Alley and the Millennium Footbridge from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Your tour will finish at King’s Cross Station Platform 9¾ where you can find a lot of souvenirs that are perfect for Harry Potter fans.

Please note: You will need to purchase a travel card or Oyster card in advance for this tour.

Enjoy an intimate introduction to England's capital on a private 4-hour tour of London with a private guide and a driver and see some of the city's most iconic sights. Your private guide will collect you from the reception desk of your hotel at 10:00am or you can choose different time if you wish to start later. Discuss the flexible itinerary before you set off. Go to Buckingham Palace - official residence of the Royal Family. Watch the Queen’s Foot Guard march to a military band at the Changing of the Guards ceremony. Marvel at the eye-catching outfits and bearskin hats. Continue to Westminster Abbey - final resting place of kings, queens, poets and statesmen. Admire architectural details of the former Benedictine monastery, including the stone cloisters, Chapter House and Strong Room. Take in the Clock Tower, home to Big Ben, and the marvelous Gothic edifice of the Houses of Parliament. See Banqueting House and No. 10 Downing Street or Trafalgar Square and National Gallery. Famous Tower of London and Tower Bridge, magnificent St Paul Cathedral and many more places.



Then, walk up Whitehall, past Banqueting House and No. 10 Downing Street, to arrive at Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Conclude your tour back in your hotel.

Meet your guide in central London at your hotel and set off on an entertaining walking tour of the City of London. Catch a double decker bus. Then stroll along cobbled alleyways to reach the Strand and Fleet Street, home of Britain’s national newspapers until the 1980s.

Continue on to St Paul’s Cathedral, London’s highest point for more than 1,400 years. Rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, St Paul's has hosted many national events including the wedding of Charles, Prince of Wales, and Lady Diana Spencer. Stroll through London's oldest district while learning more about catastrophic events like the Great Fire that reshaped the city, or the plague that killed a third of London’s population. Cross famous Millennium bridge and visit Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral, Golden Hinde II – Sir Francis Drake's Famous Galleon.

Conclude your tour with a stop by London Bridge station. Learn how Tower of London, 11th-century stronghold of William the Conqueror became a palace, prison, and gruesome execution place, and hear tales of prisoners like Anne Boleyn – Henry VIII's unfortunate second wife – who met her end there in 1536. Your tour ends at center of London.

Enjoy an intimate introduction to England's capital on a private 3-hour tour of London with a private driver guide and see some of the city's most iconic sights. Your private driver/guide will collect you from the reception desk of your hotel. Discuss the flexible itinerary before you set off.

Go to Buckingham Palace - official residence of the Royal Family. Continue to Westminster Abbey - final resting place of kings, queens, poets and statesmen. Admire architectural details of the former Benedictine monastery, including the stone cloisters, Chapter House and Strong Room.

Take in the Clock Tower, home to Big Ben, and the marvelous Gothic edifice of the Houses of Parliament. See Banqueting House and No. 10 Downing Street or Trafalgar Square and National Gallery. Famous Tower of London and Tower Bridge, magnificent St Paul Cathedral and many more places.

Then, walk up Whitehall, past Banqueting House and No. 10 Downing Street, to arrive at Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Conclude your tour back at your hotel.

Your quest is to uncover some of the most daring and cunning Pokémon, some that hide craftily in plain sight throughout London and others that are trickier to locate. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, you can choose what you visit. See famous Big Ben, St Paul Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace. Discover London’s hidden riverside gems on this fascinating tour.

Join your driver guide for an in-depth views of London’s magnificent landmarks like Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Your first target area will be among the statues, fountains and parks of London and historic places of London. Your guide will make sure you'll encounter plenty of Poke Stops to fill up on Pokeballs all along the way. Throughout your London Pokémon hunt, you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and timeless charm. Finally, your guide will take you back to your hotel.

As one of the world’s leading fashion capitals, London has an exciting shopping scene that’s particularly well known for its uber-chic department stores. Dotted around London, the stores can be tricky to find and working out the logistics from one to another can be even trickier. Luckily, with this private tour, you’ll have a knowledgeable private chauffeur to give you insider tips and drive you to the shops that you simply can’t miss!

After picking you up from your hotel, your chauffeur will discuss with you about suggested shops, and then you’ll be on your way. Your exact itinerary is flexible, so you can customize your day of shopping based on your preferences – let your chauffeur know where you want to go and then sit back and enjoy the ride.

Perhaps head to Harrods in upmarket Knightsbridge. Retailing in the same location since 1849, the palatial store remains unrivaled as the must-visit shop in London. It offers both first-rate service and an extensive product range -- selling everything from haute couture to ice cream.

Fortnum and Mason is probably the best-known British food store, having operated for centuries on London’s Piccadilly. Besides being the largest quality food retailer in London, the shop has a gorgeous interior; gaze up at its glittering chandeliers as you walk along its luxuriously carpeted aisles, shopping for quintessentially English teas and picnic hampers.

Be sure to check out the shopping mecca that is Oxford Street, home to the flagship Topshop store, all the best British-brand chain shops and, of course, Selfridges – another of the world’s finest department stores, symbolized by its iconic yellow shopping bag. Nearby is Liberty, the Tudor-style building with its tantalizing window displays to tempt you inside.

After eight hours of shopping in London’s finest shops, your private chauffeur will drop you and your shopping bags back at your hotel – the perfect ending to your perfect shopping day.

Board your luxury chauffeur-driven minivan for a day to remember with your licensed guide who will meet you at the entrance of Stonehenge. Upon arrival, your guide will accompany you to buy your tickets from the ticket desk and then take you onto the site, where you can enjoy the stones at your leisure with a fascinating guided tour. After the tour, your guide will accompany you back to the vehicle and your private chauffeur will drive you back to London. The great and ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is one of the great wonders of the world and has been awarded World Heritage status. Why it was built is a mystery, it has been a pagan place of worship, an astronomical clock and a Bronze age burial ground. Its origins date back almost 5,000 years. Decide for yourself while you discover this unique monument.

Discover London's classic sights on this private 4-hour walking tour with a certified Blue Badge guide. You can customize this tour to your own personal interests, but it typically includes Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Chinatown, and Leicester Square, as well as a stroll through one of London's famous parks.

Meet your personal guide, certified under Britain's rigorous Blue Badge system, at your choice of time and location: a typical tour begins at Westminster.

Your first stop on this itinerary is Big Ben, the 19th-century clocktower that's a London icon: your guide will explain the history of both Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament as you admire their reflections in the waters of the Thames. From here, it's a quick stroll to Westminster Abbey, first built in the eleventh century, and still an icon of Gothic architecture.

Next, journey further into the heart of the British government as you pass Downing Street, home of the Prime Minister, and Horse Guards Parade. If you're lucky, you may see the Queen's personal cavalry on duty as you admire the glorious Palladian buildings.

Your guide will introduce you to war memorials and other state buildings as you stroll up to bustling Trafalgar Square. This is the home of Nelson's Column, topped with a statue of the admiral, picturesque fountains, and galleries that house some of the world's finest art.

Next, descend into the hubbub and buzz of Covent Garden, once home to a thriving fruit and vegetable market, and now a shopping, eating, and street theater mecca, and London's Chinatown. You'll continue to buzzy Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, perhaps London's answer to Times Square.

Return to serenity as you stroll down Piccadilly and through Green Park, one of London's prettiest historic parks: you'll find yourself at the gates of Buckingham Palace, home of the Queen. From here, your guide can either escort you to the tube or leave you to explore the public areas of the palace (own expense).

Hop into your minivan at your centrally located London hotel at your selected time, then spin through the streets with your private chauffeur at the wheel. Take in top city attractions with ease and enjoy the freedom to plan your own route.

Perhaps hit popular landmarks such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, or Westminster Abbey, and hop out of your vehicle to explore at your leisure. Visit diverse districts like Chinatown, Piccadilly, and Soho, and soak up the atmosphere for which London is famous.

After eight hours of independent sightseeing around London at night, your private chauffeur will drop you off back at your hotel.

Board your luxury chauffeur driven Range Rover for a day to remember with your licensed Blue Badge guide who will accompany you from London to Stonehenge. On arrival your Blue Badge guide will take you onto the site, where you can enjoy the stones at your leisure with a fascinating guided tour. 

The great and ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is one of the great wonders of the world and has been awarded World Heritage status. Why it was built is a mystery, it has been a pagan place of worship, an astronomical clock and a Bronze age burial ground. Its origins date back almost 5,000 years. Decide for yourself while you discover this unique monument.

Start with a pickup from your Central London hotel, and relax in the comfort of your private vehicle. As your private chauffeur takes care of the route and driving. The itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your interests, but all tours include plenty of photo stops and breaks for lunch, afternoon tea or snacks.

Explore the streets around Westminster, with its collection of historical and political monuments. Parliament Square is home to Westminster Abbey — setting of the 2011 royal wedding of Kate Middleton to Prince William — as well as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Whitewall and Trafalgar Square.

Want to factor in some activities alongside sightseeing and attraction visits? Then speak to your chauffeur about a Thames River sightseeing cruise , a ride on the London Eye or a trip up a high-speed elevator to the View from the Shard ( own expense). Or, perhaps watch the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, the London residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

At the end of your day of sightseeing and fun in London, finish your 4 hour private tour with a hotel drop-off.

Start your tour with an evening pickup from your centrally located London hotel, then spin through the streets with your private chauffeur as the bright city lights illuminate your route. With flexible itinerary, enjoy the freedom to hit the highlights you most want to see.

Perhaps take in popular sites of interest such as Chinatown, Piccadilly, Soho — London’s proudly bohemian neighborhood — Trafalgar Square, and the gitzy West End. Along the way, stop at your leisure to explore a little on foot and shop at famous stores like Fortnum and Mason (own expense).

Why not head down the Thames Embankment — home to must-see sites including Big Ben, Festival Hall, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye? With the landmarks illuminated against the night sky, capture beautiful views on camera.

After three hours of independent sightseeing around London at night, your private chauffeur will drop you off back at your hotel.

Start your tour at the Ship in a Bottle statue which is located at the southern entrance ( IE. observatory side ) to the National Maritime Museum. See and experience Turner's magnificent painting of the Battle of Trafalgar which he painted in the early 1820's. From there you will continue on to the Nelson, Navy, Nation gallery where you will see the jacket that Nelson was wearing at the time he was mortally wounded on board HMS Victory.

Visit the Trade Gallery to learn more about trade with the Far East and its origins with the East India Company. Half way through the tour, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a coffee/tea break at the nice cafe located in the Museum.

Explore the Atlantic Slavery gallery which portrays a brutally honest history of the slave trade and England's role in that trade. Also discover more about lighthouses and their history in the UK.

Notting Hill, is one of the most popular and visited districts in London. With an illustrious history that stretches back hundreds of years. From the time of the Saxons, to the time it was swallowed in to the capital, Notting Hill has seen it all.

From the Potteries and Piggeries to the grand Victorian terrace houses. Notting Hill is home to the rich and famous, has a world renowned market on Portobello Road, was the set for a blockbuster movie and was even the stomping ground for a deathly serial killer.

Notting Hill Taxi Tour has it all; the good, the bad, and the ugly.

To understand London, you first need to understand its long, complex history. Our expert guides will peel back the layers as you walk past some of the most iconic places in central London like Trafalgar Square and the House of Parliament. Learn about Chaucer at Westminster Abbey or maybe bump into the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street.

The tour will pass through the sweeping green parks, bustling crowds, and quaint squares that make up this fascinating urban landscape. Learn about the monarchs and leaders, like Queen Elizabeth II and Winston Churchill, while also taking advantage of your local guide, who will be more than willing to share a few of the city’s best kept secrets as you explore together.

Following a 9am or 1pm pickup at your centrally located London hotel, meet your guide and take a seat in your traditional London black cab. Then, spin onward through the city to begin your tour.

Travel into the East End and retrace the footsteps of Jack the Ripper — one of London’s most infamous 19th-century killers. Along the way, learn of the unsolved murders of Annie Chapman, Catherine Eddowes, Mary Jane Kelly, Mary Ann Nichols, and Elizabeth Stride that he’s said to have committed.

During your tour, hear spooky stories from London’s dim and distant past. Visit sites of murder and mayhem, and explore the gruesome world of Sweeney Todd — the demon barber of Fleet Street. When your driving tour comes to an end, return in comfort to your London hotel.

Hop into your taxi at 9am at your centrally located London hotel, then spin through the city streets as your guide brings 1960s London to life.

During your 3-hour driving tour, visit key sites of interest including Abbey Road Studios and its famous pedestrian crossing, the Apple headquarters, and the house where Paul wrote ‘I Wanna Hold your Hand’.

View properties that the Beatles owned and worked in, see where John and Yoko met, and where 'Hey Jude' and part of the White Album were recorded. Along the way, listen to music of the era and perhaps sing along to your favourite Beatles records.

Flick through photographs of the Fab Four from their London heyday, then finish your tour in Covent Garden or back at your London hotel.

Following a 9am pickup at your centrally located London hotel, take a seat in your traditional black cab and spin onward to Bowood House — a beautiful 18th-century manor nestled in the Wiltshire countryside.

On arrival, explore the house (own expense), and admire the Georgian architecture and plush furnishings you find. Discover historical artefacts and heirlooms including Queen Victoria’s wedding chair and Napoleon's death mask, and learn of the Marquis and Marchioness of Lansdowne — the ancestral owners.

Delve into the gardens, widely considered among the finest in England, and stroll across the sweeping lawns to the peaceful lake at the bottom. Discover hedgerows and flowerbeds laid out by Capability Brown — a famous British landscape gardener — and capture the pretty views on camera.

Continue on to the second stately home of your tour, either Blenheim Palace, Buscot Park and Gardens, Greys Court, Hidcote Manor Garden, Kelscott Manor, or Sulgrave Manor. As before, explore the house and gardens at your leisure (own expense) and gain insight into their place in British history.

When your second visit comes to an end, relax on route to Covent Garden or your London hotel to conclude your tour.

Private Guided Tour of Hampton Court Palace. Follow in the footsteps of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth. Explore the magnificent rooms and see fantastic treasures and works of art. See the huge kitchens and try out the famous Hampton Court Maze!

Hampton Court Palace is one of the best days out imaginable.  We meet you at either your hotel or mutually convenient station at around 9am then travel by private car to Hampton Court Palace, sat in a beautiful location on the River Thames.

With your ticket included, we would explore all that Hampton Court has to offer.  Hampton Court is famous for being a home of King Henry VIII, and we will visit his massive royal kitchens and ancient Great Hall.  Then we will visit the beautiful Chapel Royal before visiting The Cumberland Gallery, which is full of paintings by some of the leading artists in Europe such as Rembrandt and Caravaggio.

The palace has been lived in for centuries, and we can see more recent periods of royal residency including the magnificent state apartments of King William III and the chocolate kitchens.

Finally, Hampton Court is surrounded by some of the most beautiful gardens anywhere, and we can have a walk in the fresh air before visiting the world-famous Hampton Court Maze.

The tour will end with us returning by car back to our starting point.

This is a totally unrushed and bespoke tour, very different from the busy and quick coach tours.

Greenwich is one of the most beautiful and interesting parts of London but is mostly forgotten by most tourists which is a shame as most Londoners would tell you; it is the place to go to.

Greenwich lies to the east of the city and is well worth spending a day at for anyone visiting London.  Whether it is visiting the market to grab some tasty street food or bohemian clothing or visiting one of the many world famous tourist attractions, you really should book this tour.

Greenwich of course is home to the Greenwich Meridian where the time of the entire planet is centered upon.  Who can miss out on the opportunity to stand on the time-line with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and one in the west.

Greenwich is also home to the Royal Observatory where amongst others Sir Isaac Newton once worked.  Even if you don’t want to look in the observatory, the hill offers one of the best views possible of Greenwich, the Docklands and also London itself.

Traditionally Greenwich was also a renowned home of the Royal Navy and every visitor must visit the Royal Naval College to see one of the most breathtaking buildings anywhere with sumptuously decorated and painted interiors which have been used in many a Hollywood and British movie.  For the hardcore naval fan there is the chance to visit the Naval Museum too.

Without a doubt, one of the highlights of Greenwich is the Cutty Sark.  This tea-clipper sailing ship has a long and glorious history and a few years ago was almost destroyed in a fire during a planned refurbishment.  Happily it has been fully restored and now with its keel enclosed under a glass dome, it is even more unmissable than ever before.

For this private guided tour, we will meet you at your hotel and we will then travel by tube and DLR the short distance to Greenwich and explore this wonderful village in the heart of the city.  If all the above isn’t enough, there is a Royal Palace to see as well.

Includes
• Entrance fee to the Cutty Sark
• Entrance fee to the Royal Naval Academy buildings, including the Chapel and Painted Hall
• Entrance fee to the Naval Museum (if required)
• Entrance fee to the Royal Observatory

You’ll be met at your hotel or other agreed meeting point and enjoy a drive by private car to Windsor, a location that has been linked to British monarchy for more than 900 years. It is also the weekend home of the Queen, who very much enjoys spending time at Windsor Castle.

On this half-day tour you’ll visit the sumptuously decorated castle and hear about its history. The royal residence houses more fine art, gold, and furnishings than is imaginable. Inside the walls you’ll also find the chapel where a number of kings and queens have been buried.

You’ll take a walk around the castle walls, see the soldiers on guard, and maybe even a royal if you’re lucky!

Following the Castle visit, you’ll take a walk around Windsor Old Town, visit the famous park, and see the Crooked House, perhaps stopping for tea, or maybe a beer at a 500-year-old pub.

The tour is leisurely paced and unhurried and included entrance tickets to Windsor Castle and Official Audio Guide for the Castle interior.

Discover the vast estate of Blenheim Palace in the Oxfordshire village of Woodstock on a half-day tour from London, traveling by private car. The only non-royal or religious palace in the UK, Blenheim is the ancestral home of the dukes of Marlborough, and was built between 1705 and 1722.

Upon arrival, marvel at the sumptuous interior, and discover a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Once home to Winston Churchill, the palace rooms include the imposing Great Hall and the state apartments. See stunning portraits and tapestries, as well as period furniture and porcelain displays.

Then, wander among more than 2,000 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds. See the water terraces of the Formal Gardens, and take on the challenge of the Marlborough Maze in the Pleasure Gardens. Walks around the grounds will take you to the Pump House, rose gardens, Boathouse, and more.

Discover one of England’s most impressive Norman castles on a full-day private tour of Warwick. Looming over the picturesque county town in the Heart of England, Warwick Castle is still occupied today, but there are plenty of areas accessible for public adventures.

Your driver will pick you up from Watford Junction Train Station in North London (or in central London subject to a surcharge), then drive towards the Castle, situated on a bend of the River Avon.

Upon arrival, marvel at how well preserved the castle is. Originally built of motte-and-bailey, the stone castle that replaced the original was constructed from stone. Admire this fine example of 14th-century military architecture as you climb the towers, explore the battlements, and see the dungeons.

Learn about the important role it played in English history, seek out the resident birds of prey, and catch a medieval re-enactment if you’re lucky.

Take a trip through the beautiful English countryside and visit the gorgeous Hatfield House estate, home of the legendary Queen Elizabeth I, just a short drive north of London in Hertfordshire County.

After being collected from your accommodation in London or at a convenient meeting point in the city, you will take a short but scenic drive to Hatfield House. Stroll through its formal period gardens, featured in many famous films through the years, take a walk through the vast acres of woods and landscaped gardens, or visit one of the several exhibitions at the estate.

If you'd like a whole day out, consider adding the nearby Knebworth House to see a totally different style of country house.

After meeting at your hotel or at a convenient meeting point in north London, travel by private car through the beautiful English countryside to the stately home of Knebworth House, where the aristocratic Lytton family lived for centuries.

One of the most recognizable stately homes in Britain, Knebworth House lies in the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside just outside London. Its foreboding exterior has made it a popular setting for films like Batman but it is the beautiful interiors and vast gardens that make this a must-see.

Savor the peaceful estate and its many treasures and works of art as you explore the grounds, and once the tour is complete, travel back to your starting point in London in a private car.

Join us on a private tour to the beautiful and entirely unique Eltham Palace.  For centuries a Royal Palace sat atop of a hill overlook beautiful countryside and more latterly in the leafy London suburbs.

There is nowhere else quite like Eltham Palace.  Situated in SE London, it is a unique marriage between a medieval and Tudor palace and a 1930s millionaire’s mansion. From the 14th to the 16th century it was an important royal palace, where monarchs often stayed and hunted in the surrounding parks.

Much of Eltham Palace fell into disuse and large sections of it had to be taken down but happily the Great Hall remains and it is one of the finest in the country, up with that at Westminster Palace and Hampton Court Palace.

What really makes Eltham Palace unique however is that after centuries of neglect, Eltham was leased to Stephen and Virginia Courtauld in 1933 and they spent £20 million on building a state of the art home here that incorporated the Great Hall with their magnificent Art-Deco creation. The result was a masterpiece of 20th-century design.

Finally, Eltham surrounded by beautiful gardens, a wonderful moat and ancient brick bridge which anywhere else would be a tourist destination in its own right.

The tour will end with us returning by car back to our starting point.

Begin your full-day private tour with a visit to the famed Camden Lock Market and its vast number of stalls offering fashions, music, games, health and beauty products, and its numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Covent Garden is probably the best known market to tourists. This was originally a fruit market that now sells almost everything. The Apple Market is found in the North Hall, where you’ll find British-made crafts, jewelry, leather goods, and more.

Open every day of the week, the East Colonnade Market boasts a variety of stalls selling products such as handmade soaps, jewelry, handbags, hand-knitted children’s clothing, sweets, artwork, homewares, and even has a magician’s stall!

In the South Piazza, the offerings of the Jubilee Market change almost daily. On Mondays, the market is dedicated to antiques. From Tuesday to Friday, a general market operates with traders selling clothing and household goods. On weekends, the market features arts and crafts.

Another venue that’s great to visit is Old Spitalfields Market, housed in one of the finest Victorian market halls in London. Spitalfields is perfect for shoppers who enjoy fashion, antiques, and food. You’ll find vividly colored, distinct, and quirky creations of up-and-coming designers, as well as bohemian, vintage, and African designs.

Greenwich Market’s century-old hall has just undergone a complete refurbishment and there is now no better place to shop for unique and distinctive arts and crafts. Well-known for its designer makers and small cottage industries, customers have access to items that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, take in some classical music performed by students from nearby Trinity College of Music, and visit the continental food court whilst browsing through the wonderful array of over 120 arts, crafts, and antique stalls.

Finally, head back into the city to visit Borough Market. This gourmet food market comprises more than 100 stalls and stands. Suppliers from all over the country bring a range of fresh products to the market, including fish, meats, vegetables, ciders, cheeses, breads, coffees, hot foods, cakes, and patisseries. Other stalls specialize in products from abroad. The market is open from Monday to Saturday.

All tours are fully personalised so if you’d rather visit other locations, such as Portobello Road Market or Brick Lane then you only have to ask!

Start the day at your hotel in London or at a convenient meeting point, and enjoy a scenic ride out of the city and through the beautiful English countryside.

Once in St. Albans, embark on your guided tour through the city, visiting its ancient Roman ruins left over from the old city walls, and walk up the city's hill to the magnificent St. Albans Abbey, the ancient cathedral of the city and resting place of an early Christian martyr. Stop along the way for some refreshments, and reward yourself with a beer at one of the England's oldest pubs.

Before heading back to London, pay a visit the bustling English market of St. Albans, and visit the ancient church said to be the final resting place of Sir Francis Bacon.

Start the day off at your hotel or at a convenient meeting point at a north London train or tube station, and travel by private car through the beautiful English countryside to the stately home of Hughenden Manor. 

Hughenden Manor was home to Queen Victoria's favorite Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, who was a very forward-thinking politician at a time the British Empire was at its peak, and the only Jewish British Prime Minister in history. Set in the rolling wooded Chiltern Hills, an official area of outstanding beauty but only 30 miles from central London. Hughenden Manor is a surprisingly personal home, filled with formal gardens, acres of woodland, as well as an ancient church.

As you explore the estate, enjoy some light refreshments along the way, and when the day is done, get dropped off at a convenient location in London.

You’ll be met by your guide at the agreed location and begin the drive by private car to Waddesdon Manor on this 6-hour tour.

Now open to the public and set amid stunning hilltop gardens, the unique French style chateau was the one-time home of the wealthy Rothschild family. This is very much a trip for those wanting to experience an authentic day out in the English countryside.

Waddesdon is one of the most visited estates in the country and once there, you'll understand why. Marvel at the interior of the house and its lavishly decorated rooms filled with fine furnishings and works of art.

The gardens are also a sight to behold, and the views from the gardens stretch for miles over the plains. See the outdoor aviary with birds from around the world, rose gardens, formal gardens with fountains, and caves, and take the land-train down the hill to the stable block and café.

Begin the day at your hotel in London or at a convenient meeting point (such as a north London train or tube station) and enjoy a scenic ride through the beautiful English countryside to the stately home of Woburn Abbey, where the family of the Duke of Bedford have lived for centuries.

Situated on a massive estate filled with immaculate gardens and populated by thousands of deer, Woburn Abbey is a sight to behold. The house itself is sumptuously decorated and just when you think you have seen it all, the wonders of the family treasure vault await you. Enjoy some complimentary beverages while you explore the grounds, and then relax as you are driven back to your residence in London.

This is a great day out for anyone with an appreciation for military history and airplanes. Your guide will pick you up at your hotel or at a train/tube station in the morning. Enjoy complimentary drinks and entrance fees on this full-day tour of the Royal Air Force Museum at Hendon.

RAF Hendon houses planes from around the world, dating from over 100 years ago right up to the present day Eurofighter, with special emphasis on the RAF.

Learn all about the Battle of Britain and experience an air raid over London. See the heroics of the early aviation pioneers and learn from your guide’s personal experience, as the workshop of one of his relatives is part of the tour.

Your visit to Hendon can be as long or short as you'd like it to be. There’s certainly more to see than is possible to cover in a single day.

See Spitfires, Hurricanes, Lancasters, Vulcans, Typhoons, Meschersmitts, Stukas, Mustangs, F35s, and over 100 other types of aircraft.

Discover some of the most important historic sites in the Prehistoric world on a full-day private tour from London.  First off we will head west to the picturesque Salisbury Plain. Admire some of the scenic English countryside en route, ending at the miraculous stone circle near the village of Amesbury.

Marvel at the earthworks of this prehistoric feat of human endeavor, and visit the brand new state-of-the-art Visitor Centre to explore some of the theories behind its purpose.

Afterwards we will visit the older, bigger and in many ways more impressive stone circles atAvebury, a Neolithic henge that encircles the pretty village of the same name.   Nearby is the highest prehistoric mound in Europe, if not the world at Silbury Hill and finally we will visit West Kennet Long Barrow and take the opportunity to explore the little visited but probably best neolithic site in the area and venture in to the old burial tombs.

Travel back to the magical and somewhat mythical days of King Arthur and his chivalrous Knights of the Round Table on a private all day tour from London. Recent research has increased the likelihood that King Arthur had his castle at Tintagel which is well beyond a day-trip range from London.  However, there are other sites of Arthurian lore which are closer and easier to visit. On this tour you will visit a few of the tangible places that have a connection with King Arthur and you can see where history meets with myth, legend and magic.

A few hours out of London will take you to the beautiful old city of Winchester and though there is lots to see here, what you are really here to see is the Great Hall where proudly sat on the wall for all to see is the famous round table of King Arthur. Scientific dating reveals that the table may well be only 800 years old which is a little more recent than when King Arthur is thought to have lived but this table is surely the closest and most authentic imaginable, with the names of his 24 knights painted around the table.

From Winchester you will travel to the magical Isle of Avalon. Here you can climb the Tor (or admire it from the base if preferred).  The area is steeped in ancient and medieval history as well as famously being named as the place where Jesus walked in England's green and pleasant land. Finally, a short distance from Avalon, you will visit the picturesque ruins of Glastonbury Abbey and see the final resting place of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere as discovered by the local monks in the year 1191 AD.

Travel by car through the lovely Kent countryside along the route pilgrims followed for centuries to Canterbury Cathedral, the mother church for the Anglican faithful around the world. On this 6-hour private tour you’ll visit both the Cathedral and the city.

Enter through the imposing front gates and marvel at the magnificence of Canterbury Cathedral both inside and out. Explore the interior and see the many memorials and dedications, and the chapels that offer opportunity for silent prayer and meditation.

You may want to light a candle for a loved one before visiting the spot where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered by the king’s knights – an act that contributed to his eventual sainthood.

There will be time to explore the city’s winding lanes and to admire its many fine buildings as well.

Your Range Rover service can start at your selected time from any central London hotel or any of the major airport hotels where your chauffeur will wait with a placard. You can personalize your entire day with the assistance of our knowledgeable chauffeur whether its for a business trip to London, meetings, sightseeing or even a shopping day out. Whether you want to visit famous sightseeing spots such as Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace or go shopping at Marks and Spencer, on Oxford Street, Covent Garden, King's Road or at other locations in and around London within the M25 motorway, you'll have plenty of time to discover the city in style.

Your service can start at your selected time from any central London hotel or any of the major airport hotels. Maximum disposal time is 8 hours per day.

You can personalize your entire day with the assistance of our knowledgeable chauffeur whether its for a business trip to London, meetings, sightseeing or even a shopping day out. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, you can choose what you visit. See famous Big Ben, St Paul Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace. Go shopping in a Rolls Royce with your personal chauffeur to help carry the bags from that special little boutique or big Regent Street stores like Harrods or Selfridges. You won’t have to struggle with heavy shopping bags. Let your chauffeur deliver you to the door of your favorite London store and pick you back up again.

Start with a pickup from any London Heathrow Terminal, and relax in the comfort of your private vehicle as your private chauffeur takes care of the route and driving. The itinerary is completely flexible and can be tailored to your interests, but all tours will include plenty of photo stops.

Explore the streets around Westminster, with its collection of historical and political monuments. Parliament Square is home to Westminster Abbey — setting of the 2011 royal wedding of Kate Middleton to Prince William — as well as Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Whitewall and Trafalgar Square.

Want to factor in some activities alongside sightseeing and attraction visits? Then speak to your chauffeur about a Thames River sightseeing cruise , a ride on the London Eye or a trip up a high-speed elevator to the View from the Shard. Or, perhaps watch the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, the London residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

Please note: some of these attractions may have entrance fees, which will not be covered by initial purchase. Your chauffeur will let you know how much these could be when you're working out the itinerary for this tour.

At the end of your day of sightseeing and fun in London, you'll finish with a drop-off to your hotel or back to the airport.

Starting from your hotel in Central London and head west to Oxfordshire where the Bicester Shopping Village is located. After a journey of no longer than two hours, you will arrive for your independent shopping experience with your exclusive chauffeur.

The Bicester Shopping Village is an outdoor, luxury shopping outlet, where you will find a wide variety of chic boutiques that showcase fabulously discounted labels from the leading fashion and lifestyle brands. The luxury brands featured in Bicester Village include UGG, Guess, DKNY and Prada, many of whom feature discounts of up to 60 percent off the recommended retail price. A more detailed list of Bicester Village’s boutiques is provided in the itinerary section below.

There are not only luxurious boutiques to discover, but so much more to enjoy here. Many of the stores have in-house stylists, who will happily offer you a complimentary style consultancy, should you wish. When you've had enough of shopping, why not relax in one of the numerous cafes and restaurants in Bicester Village (own expense).

This luxury outlet offers all the things you would expect from a department store, in an incomparable village environment to make your visit effortless. When you are finished shopping for the day, your chauffeur driven luxury vehicle will take you, and all your shopping bags, back to your hotel in central London.

Your service can start at your selected time from any central London hotel or any of the major airport hotels. Maximum disposal time is 8 hours per day.

You can personalize your entire day with the assistance of our knowledgeable chauffeur whether its for a business trip to London, meetings, sightseeing or even a shopping day out. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, you can choose what you visit. See famous Big Ben, St Paul Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace.

The Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon Marble, and the Assyrian lion hunt are just some of the myriad art treasures we’ll see in this 3-hour, in-depth British Museum Tour. Led by a trained archaeologist or historian, this walk not only explores the history of the museum and its controversial history of collecting, but goes in-depth with some of its many treasures from antiquity. Together, we'll rediscover not only the museum's well-known Ancient Egyptian and Greek treasures, but some of its lesser-known, but no less magnificent, Assyrian, Persian, and Mesopotamian artifacts.

• British Museum Tour led by an expert docent trained in history or archaeology
• A insider's visit to the British Museum
• Small group sightseeing in London—6 people max

"I felt like I had goggles taken off and I could see for the first time"

British Museum Tour

We generally start with a thorough overview of how the British Museum came into existence in the mid-eighteenth century, visiting to the Enlightenment Gallery, formerly known as the King’s Library—the first part of the new museum building as it is seen today. Here we will look at how the discipline of archaeology evolved—in this very room!—from the work of antiquaries. We'll also look at how art history was born here with the study of ancient Greek sculpture and vase painting, and how Greek art set the standard for the next 200 years of what was considered the model of fully-evolved art. For people interested in intellectual history, we've arrived at a major crossroads.

Antiquities & the Rosetta Stone

From here we will traverse the halls of the museum, visiting its most important rooms. This includes the Egyptian collection. Here, we will discuss how ancient texts came to be deciphered in the first place and will compare the ways in which hieroglyphs and cuneiform, the two earliest scripts, were cracked.

Ancient Iran and Iraq

We will also look at several of the antiquities and languages of ancient Iraq and Iran, as material from these areas forms some of the earliest collections in the British Museum. Large-scale excavation in the ancient Middle East and the race to decipher hieroglyphic and cuneiform scripts were inspired by the finds from Mesopotamia and Persia. The beginnings of the British Museum are inextricably tied to the European re-discovery of these ancient cultures.

Interested in touring another can't-miss museum? Try our National Gallery Tour.

Depending on Interest

Our discussion will be illustrated by the Rosetta Stone, which now lives in the British Museum, along with nearly 130,000 pieces of cuneiform tablets from ancient Iraq, some of which are on display. Depending on the interests of our docent and the group, we may then spend time looking more in-depth at the art of ancient Iran and/or of ancient Iraq in its earlier phases, before taking in the palace reliefs of ancient Assyrian kings that form the best collection of ancient Iraqi sculpture outside Baghdad. Or, we'll spend the rest of our time looking at the Parthenon Marbles.

For a different view of archaeology in London, see our Hidden London Tour.

Take Aways

"Our docent's enthusiasm for this subject was contagious" is a refrain we hear often on this walk. Indeed, this is one of our goals: To focus on the inspiring, world-historical events that have taken place in and around the British Museum and the objects she houses, and impart a sense of wonder and appreciation among the tour participants. At the end of our time together we will emerge with a better understanding of this major institution and the key role it continues to play in intellectual life worldwide.

FAQs

Where does the tour start? Where does it end?

The tour meets near the British Museum, in an easy to find location away from the crowds. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24/7 phone number. The walking tour ends inside the Museum.

Will we see the Parthenon Marbles?

Yes, they are part of the itinerary. In general, we encourage you to share with us your interests so we can adjust the tour to best meet your expectations.

Do we need to pay a ticket to get in?

No, unless you want to see one of the temporary exhibitions, the museum is free. However, donations are greatly appreciated.

Is the British Museum accessible?

The Great Russell Street entrance has 12 steps with a handrail. There are self-operable lifts on both sides of the steps. There is level access at the Montague Place entrance. The majority of galleries and all special exhibitions are fully accessible.

Is this tour good for kids and teens?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. We have a separate British Museum for Families walk just for families with children 12 and under. When booking, please provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Set in one of the world's most iconic botanical landscapes and housing the largest collections of living, painted, and dried plants, the Kew Royal Botanical Gardens are a sensory embodiment of the global reach and passion for discovery that defined the British empire in the 18th and 19th centuries. On this Kew Gardens Tour, we'll discuss the force behind the development of these gardens as well as the present and future of Kew, as a center of research into plant genetics and participation in international conservation efforts.

From beheadings to Beefeater, political intrigue, and the Crown Jewels, few sites represent London better than it's famous Tower. This 3-hour Tower of London Tour, led by a historian who has taught British history extensively, uses the Tower as backdrop for understanding and discussing British history, the political intrigues of kings and queens, and the daily life of commoners. Together, we'll discuss the many roles the Tower has played, from strategic outpost of William the Conquerer to a prison and site of execution that witnessed the beheading of two of Henry VIII's wives. With a history that spans nearly 1,000 years, there is much more than this to explore and discover.

• Tower of London Tour explores the Tower and surrounding area
• Led by a scholar of British history
• Small group sightseeing in London - 6 people max.
• No waiting in line.

Tower of London Tour

We will begin with a walk outside the tower and consider the oldest part of the structure, which was built by William the Conqueror in the 1070s. We will think about the strategic advantages to its location by the River Thames on the edge of the wealthy City of London and its role as a reminder to Londoners of the power and military might of the king. Upon entering, we will discuss the architectural developments of the Tower of London as a castle and a royal residence in relation to the political and social presence of the ruling monarch and the various messages of power that it conveyed.

Bloody Tower

At the execution site, we will remember those who were executed and imprisoned here on charges of treason and we will explore the question of why private rather than public executions were chosen and the political implications each sentence held. In hearing of famous prisoners like Guy Fawkes, who attempted to blow up Parliament in 1605, as well as in seeing examples of torture instruments from the past, we will discuss questions of imprisonment, torture, and execution.

Looking for tours of more London landmarks? Try our Westminster Abbey Tour or St. Paul's Cathedral Tour.

Beefeaters

On our tour we will also see the Yeoman Warders, or the Beefeaters as they are more commonly known, who are the ceremonial guardians of the Tower; the ravens that have been at the tower for over 300 years and the legend surrounding them; and the Crown Jewels, used in the coronation ceremony of each new monarch, which symbolize the divine right of kings. We will discuss these in relation to the authority conferred by tradition and to the narrative within the story of the tower. We will further explore this in relation to the Victorians and the many narratives they constructed, specifically looking at Traitor's Gate and the execution site, and in relation to contemporary narratives spun by the guides.

Wrapping Up

Then, depending on your preference and continuing along with the themes of power and authority, we can enter the White Tower, the oldest part of the Tower of London constructed in the 1070s, and explore the state-of-the-art Norman fortress and royal palace. We will see spectacular examples of Henry VIII's armor and discuss the functions of the medieval tournament and its chivalric ideals. Alternatively, we can explore the many other towers, perhaps seeing the graffiti carved into the walls by prisoners in the Beauchamp Tower (also known as the Bloody Tower), where two young princes were said to have been murdered in 1483.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The tour meets near the Tower, in an easy to find location away from the crowds. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24/7 phone number. The walking tour ends within the Tower grounds.

Does this walk "skip the line"?

Yes, we use a reserved entry to bypass the ticket line at the entrance. However, if you are interested in a fully exclusive, "no crowds" experience, we also offer an early morning Tower of London walk

Will we see the Crown Jewels?

Yes, the Jewels are part of the tour. Please note that during peak season the Jewel House can be quite crowded, especially in the late morning and early afternoon.

Can I buy food and drink at the Tower or should I bring my own snacks?

Yes. There are various restaurants and cafés at the Tower offering a wide range of refreshments, snacks and meals, but you can also bring your own snacks.

Can I take photographs?

You are welcome to take photographs or to video within most of the Tower but photography and filming are not permitted inside the Jewel House, the Martin Tower, the chapel of St John inside the White Tower or in the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula.

Is the Tower of London accessible?

Whilst the Tower welcomes all visitors, this historic building has places with difficult stairs and passageways and wheelchair access is limited. There are also a large number of steps throughout the Tower with cobbles laid in some of the roads. However, the Jewel House and the Crown Jewels are fully accessible to all visitors.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. We have a separate Tower of London for Families walk just for families with children 12 and under. When booking, free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

London is full of endless possibilities but with so much on offer, it can be intimidating to plan what to see in London and how to get around. Our personalized orientation experience, led by a Context docent, is the perfect introduction for newcomers to London, and is designed to answer practical questions about life in the UK's capital city.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walking tour begins at your hotel or apartment. Your confirmation email will have a 24 hour phone number for any last minute issues. The walk typically ends back at your hotel or in the neighborhood of your hotel.

Is this a highlights tour of the city?

This is more of a practical introduction to London, particularly the area you are staying in. If you want a broader introductory walking tour, we suggest

While London is laden with well-known, memorable landmarks, few represent English history and culture better than Westminster Abbey. During this 3-hour Westminster Abbey Tour, led by a local historian with expertise in royal history, we'll explore the central role that this emblem of British Christianity has played in English history, from its founding in the eleventh century to the recent wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. During the tour we will immerse ourselves in the medieval context of Westminster and journey through nearly 1,000 years of British history.

• Westminster Abbey Tour led by historians with extensive knowledge of British royalty.
• Groups capped at 6 people max.
• 1000 years of British history in one building.
• Includes skip-the-line tickets.

Westminster Abbey Tour

Our walk begins in Parliament Square, beside the Abbey. Surrounded by symbols of royal and parliamentary power, we will place the abbey itself in its historical landscape. Originally a marshy knoll along the banks of the Thames and home to one of the poorest populations in the city, we will discuss the area's transformation over the centuries.

History Through Architecture

Using the abbey itself as a kind of textbook, we will learn how to read and understand Gothic architecture. A palimpsest of historical time periods and styles, the building and its decorative elements form the basis for our discussion on the symbolic use of certain features and the actual use of the building complex as a residence, school, and center for the Anglican church. We will explore the hidden areas of the complex, including the gardens (if possible) and the particularly beguiling cloisters. The relaxed, quiet atmosphere of these spaces will enable us to engage in a serious discussion of the abbey's role in the lives and works of such luminaries as Geoffrey Chaucer, who was employed here and probably drew a good amount of material from the goings on for his Canterbury Tales.

Want to see another London highlight? Try our Tower of London Tour.

Fit for a Queen

As the church of the queen (or king, as it may be), Westminster Abbey served as the setting for all coronations. It is also the final resting place for royalty and legions of other notable Britons, from Elizabeth I to Charles Darwin. Experts estimate there may be over 30,000 graves in all within the confines of the church.

Inside the Church

This fact will shape the second half of our walk as we enter the main church itself and wander among the monuments, tombs, and testaments. Taken together, these objects—and the great church itself—will create a narrative of British history. We will trace the reigns of kings, the intrigues of dynasties, and the impact of certain key figures on politics, art, and science. As we move among the monuments, we will trace a millennium of English history. With over 600 memorials inside the nave and transept of the church, the range of topics we might discuss is wide, though certain themes typically emerge. One such theme is the conflict between Protestants and Catholics. Another is the Great War and the Second World War. Another still is the balance between the sovereignty of royalty and the rise of democracy. In the magical atmosphere of Westminster Abbey and in the presence of so much material history, we will conduct a wide-ranging discussion, exploring facets of English history new to us while supplementing our existing knowledge.

Reading the Church

As we move along, we will continue to pay attention to the intricate architectural decoration that makes this one of the most significant churches in the world, including the Italian Cosmati paving on the high altar, the ornate stone work in the sixteenth-century apse, and the wide range of sculpture represented on the tombs. We will also learn how to read British heraldry (a fundamental talent!) omnipresent elsewhere in Westminster, and indeed throughout London: the portcullis and roses of the Tudors, the lion stretching back to Scotland, and the unicorn, a symbol of Elizabeth I.

Take Aways

Our walk may conclude by witnessing the daily prayer said over the medieval tomb of Edward the Confessor, founder of the church. A rite that has been performed for nearly a thousand years, it give us a chance to wrap our walk with a bit of living history and ponder the continuing legacy of Westminster Abbey.

If you are interested in discovering more about the key role that religion and its architecture has played in British history, we suggest our St. Paul's Cathedral Tour.

FAQ

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside? You will go inside Westminster Abbey.

Will you pre-purchase tickets? You will purchase your Westminster ticket at venue, but your docent will have special access privileges, so you will not wait in line. Admissions: adults £18, seniors and students £15, youth (11-18) £8, under 11 free.

Is this tour good for kids? Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Does this tour include Parliament? No, Parliament only allows their own tours led by their guides. You can view more info here. Keep in mind, Westminster is huge, and Parliament is only one part of it!

Uncover London's 2,000-year history in the company of an local historian on this London City Tour, broadly covering the history of England's capital. Providing an overview of London from Roman outpost to cutting-edge world capital, this walk is history-focused, tracing the city's long, turbulent history and rise to prominence while visiting quintessential landmarks like the Tower of London, All Hallows-by-the-Tower, and the Monument, which marks the spot at which the Great Fire, which nearly consumed the city, is believed to have originated.

• London City Tour led by a historian
• Provides a broad overview of the city of London, from Roman outpost to world capital
• Small group London walks—6 people max

London City Tour

We will begin at the Tower of London, one of the primary symbols of London (and where we run a focused Tower of London Tour), which was built in 1078 to protect the city from invaders. Here we will discuss the Norman invasion and separation of City of London from the monarchy, delving into one of the most interesting periods of British history. We will continue the walk with a visit to one of the few sites that escaped the fire (though not the Blitz), All Hallows-by-the-Tower. The church is the oldest known in the City of London area and contains remnants of the Roman, Saxon, medieval, and modern periods. It was also the place where Samuel Pepys watched the Great Fire spread across the capital, where William Penn was christened, and where John Quincy Adams was married.

Architecture Through the Ages

As we leave the church, we will pass some of the remainders of the Roman and medieval wall and fort that was situated in this area. While making our way in the medieval streets of the city, we will discuss the architectural development of the square mile, from St. Andrew Undershaft which survived the fire, the Blitz (the focus of ourLondon WWII Tour and a Victorian refurbishment, to the Lloyd's Building and the controversial Gerkin. We will continue our walk with a visit to the fourteenth-century Leadenhall Market, where we will discuss the importance of trade to the history of the city and to the flourishing coffeehouses in this part of London. If time allows, we will veer off to Guildhall, the medieval town hall and the only pre-1666 secular building that survived the fire and the 1940-41 Blitz. This site is also home to a Roman amphitheater situated in the ground level of the structure, whose remains we may examine.

Take Aways

Depending on the day and your interest, we may take a short walk to the third century AD Roman Mithraeum, or we could proceed to walk through Eastcheap, in the heart of the City. From here, we will walk to the Monument, a large monolith, which commemorates the believed starting-point of the Great Fire of London in 1666. The fire consumed many of the ninety-six churches that existed in this part of London, and the job of their restoration was given to Sir Christopher Wren (on whom we also run a Christopher Wren Churches Tour), whose masterpieces are still a feature of London today.

FAQS

Will we see the Tower of London on this tour?

While the Tower is not included in the tour, we start the walk very near it, and we briefly discuss its role in the creation of the City. If you are interested in visiting the Tower, please see our Tower of London tour.

Is this walk accessible to wheelchairs?

Yes, the City is fully accessible, so wheelchairs are not a problem.

Do we need to bring cash for entrance to sites?

Most sites we visit are free, however, they welcome donations. For this reason we recommend carrying some cash.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The tour covers about 2 miles. All of this is on even ground.

Through a thousand years of history, the British monarchy has moved from center of power to ceremonial periphery, a movement vividly illustrated by the style and geographical placement of the remaining royal palaces and the parks that surround them. While these parks remain opulent reminders of the power and sway of the monarchy, they largely remain as historical and ceremonial reminders of how Britain has evolved from absolute monarchy to a democracy. In the company of a local historian, this London Parks and Palaces Tour visits some of the most important parks and palaces in the city, including Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, and Hyde Park, elucidating their importance and exploring their grandeur.

• London Parks and Palaces Tour led by an local historian.
• Small group walks—6 people max.
• Learn the history of the British monarchy through its opulent parks and palaces.

London Parks and Palaces Tour

Starting at Westminster Hall, we will consider how the modern, ceremonial version of constitutional monarchy evolved over time and how that is reflected in the increasing democratization of space, best seen in the parks themselves, but also in the architecture and positioning of the palaces and their increasing accessibility and commercialization.

We'll walk through St. James’s Park, once Henry VIII’s deer park, taking in St. James’s Palace and Clarence House, today home to Prince Charles and Camilla Duchess of Cornwall.

At Buckingham Palace

Upon reaching Buckingham Palace we'll discuss Victoria's choice of the palace, and the establishment with Albert of the modern idea of “The Royal Family” as a kind of domestic ideal. We'll explore the embodiment of this, and other aspects of her rule, in the Monument. From here, we can also examine the ups and downs of the Monarchy in public opinion, as well as the Royal Family today and their place in British society and culture. Those interested in further exploring the monarchy may be interested in our London Royal Tour.

From Hyde Park to Kensington Palace

We'll continue along Green Park and Hyde Park, ending at Queen Victoria's birth place: Kensington Palace. The Palace chosen by William III, supposedly to benefit his health, but also for its symbolism: away from the seat of government, in the country, in a low-key, gentlemanly style. We'll compare Spencer and Clarence House as well as Lancaster House with Versailles, the White House, and the Escorial, demonstrating that while it may be grand, it is an out of the way—even suburban—house.

Those traveling with kids may also enjoy our London Tour for Kids of Kensington Palace.

We'll talk of more recent residents of the palace: Princess Margaret, Princess Diana, and William and Kate, and consider the present and the future for the British monarchy.

Take Aways

At the end of the walk we will have had the opportunity not only to marvel at some of London’s grandest and most beautiful landscapes, but we will have also developed an overview of how Britain’s constitutional monarchy has evolved and why, seen how that evolution is reflected physically in the deployment of buildings and parks, and begun to understand the place that London’s great parks play in the present life and past history of the city.

This walk can be tailored to appeal to everyone from the young, with its stories and fairy-tale glamor, to the more sophisticated trying to understand how the English constitution has become what it is today.

As this walk covers about 3.5 km, clients should wear comfortable shoes.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins in the Westminster neighborhood and ends at Kensington Palace. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

We will view these venues from the outside. The walk ends at Kensington Palace, where you are welcome to go inside after the tour.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

This walk covers about 3 miles overall.

Greenwich, just a short trip down the Thames from London, was an important port and center of naval activity for the British over several centuries, famous—of course—for the Greenwich Meridian, against which all longitude is measured. On this Greenwich Tour we'll take a Thames River cruise with a historian, and then spend several hours visiting some key sites in Greenwich, including the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark.

• Greenwich Tour includes a Thames River cruise
• Visits the Royal Observatory
• Led by a historian

Thames River Cruise

We begin at Embankment in central London where we'll board the Clipper Thames, one of London's riverboats, with our historian docent, heading east. Our journey will take us through the heart of London, and from our vantage point royal palaces and modern government buildings will illuminate the River's role as a power base, while old warehouses and wharfs will illustrate the working river, and bridges will tell the story of the areas previously divided by the River. Along the way our docent will talk about the role of the river, especially as it pertains to Britain's relationship with the sea. Finally, we'll arrive in Greenwich, house of the Royal Observatory, the Queen's House, the newly restored Cutty Sark, and many more important sites.

Greenwich Tour

In Greenwich, we will begin our walk by discussing the world famous ship and last surviving tea clipper, the Cutty Sark, which will function as a frame of reference during our tour. From here, we will move on to other relevant sites including the Old Royal Naval Academy, where we will discuss the history of the site, from its origins as a royal palace favored by the Tudors and birthplace of Henry VIII, Mary I, and Elizabeth I, through its complete Baroque rebuilding during the Restoration, to its transformation into the Royal Naval Hospital, and, finally, into a college under the supervision of Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor. (For those interested, we also run a Christopher Wren Churches Tour.

A Lesser known London

If time allows, our docent will lead us to lesser-known, yet equally intriguing, parts of Greenwich, including Trinity Hospital and Trafalgar Tavern. Then, we will emerge out into Greenwich Park, with scenic views of the first Palladian House in Britain, the Queen’s House, and the National Maritime Museum. Beyond the perfectly manicured lawns of the Park, a path through the trees leads us to a small hill on which the Royal Observatory and Flamsteed House are built. Once we reach the top the hill, we are presented with a wonderful view of London, both old and new, spread out before us with the River Thames cutting a silver ribbon through the city, separating the historic site of Greenwich from the modern buildings of Olympic Park.

Those who wish to learn a bit more about the view may be interested in our London Architecture Tour.

Take Aways

By the end of the walk we will have a deeper understanding of the important role that the River Thames has played in British naval and mercantile history. We will also come away with an appreciation of London as a city that constantly changes, but that also prioritizes the preservation of its history—something we will see first-hand in Greenwich, a microcosm of the unique dualities that exist in London.

Learn what we love about visiting: Five Reasons to Visit Greenwich (and Maybe Skip the London Eye).

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

We meet in central London, at Embankment Pier. The tour ends in Greenwich, where you are free to explore on your own or get lunch. It's very easy to get back to central London on your own via the Clipper Thames. Ferries are frequent throughout the day.

Does this tour include the Royal Observatory Greenwich (home of the historic Prime Meridian)?

Depending on the interest of the group, we may or not include the Royal Observatory in the tour. The observatory is on the top of the hill that overlooks Greenwich, so its a bit of a climb. If you are booking a private tour and are interested, we can definitely include it. Tickets are £ 9.50 and can be purchased at the site.

Is this tour accessible?

Yes, the Clipper Thames are fully accessible just like the sites in Greenwich.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Do I need to pay for tickets?

You are prepaid for the tour but are responsible for the Clipper Thames tickets to Greenwich. Tickets are £7.15 for adults and £3.60 for children 5-15. Under 5 travel free. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time, or at the meeting point. Oyster cards can be used on the Clipper Thames.

Westminster has been at the heart of the governmental system of England (and later, Great Britain) since the Norman Conquest in 1066. Originally the site of the main royal palace in London, whose vestige survives in Westminster Hall, it has, over the centuries, become the seat of parliamentary democracy. The area in its immediate vicinity, specifically Whitehall and Parliament Square, has seen the development of grand building works housing royal palaces, government departments, and the Supreme Court. Westminster Abbey (the subject of our Westminster Abbey Tour), the other focal point, has also played an important role in the history of government, hosting coronations, royal weddings, and funerals, and serving as a necropolis for the kings and queens of England. On this London Parliament Tour, guided by a local historian, we will visit these and other important sites for the development of Britain's government while discussing the evolution of democracy and monarchy.

• Take in London's most significant political landmarks.
• Small group size—maximum six people on a walk.
• London Parliament Tour led by a historian.

London Parliament Tour

We'll begin our discussion in the early years of Parliament, which served as a council of tenants-in-chief to William the Conqueror. From there, we will chart its rise to power, which culminated in the supremacy of the representative House of Commons in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Trafalgar Square

As we're discussing the origins of Parliament, we will stroll through Trafalgar Square to the statue of Charles I, who looks down Whitehall towards Westminster. From here, we will explore how this king’s determination to rule by divine right led to civil war and his ultimate overthrow and execution. We will continue down Whitehall, past Horse Guards’ Parade, where the royal bodyguard has traditionally been barracked, toward The Whitehall Banqueting House, part of a seventeenth-century palace complex, which is the masterpiece of architect Inigo Jones and was intended to exemplify royal power and prestige through the painted decoration of Peter Paul Rubens.

Decoding History

We will then examine the architectural vocabulary of many of the ministries of state, a vestige of imperial times during which time it administered the civil service of the British Empire, contrasting the modest frontage of Number 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the Prime Minister, with some of the more opulent architecture associated with government.

The Figures of Parliament

Continuing on into Parliament Square we will examine some of the important figures in the history of parliamentary democracy who are celebrated here: Simon de Montfort, the knight who fought Edward I to establish parliamentary rights; Oliver Cromwell, the leader of the Parliamentary faction in the English Civil War and de facto ruler of England in the 1650s; Winston Churchill, famed Prime Minister during the Second World War (whose legacy we also explore on our Churchill War Rooms Tour); David Lloyd George, the Prime Minister during the First World War; and Benjamin Disraeli, Queen Victoria’s favorite Minister.

The Houses of Parliament

We will discuss the 1834 rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament after the Great Fire and the choice of the Gothic style in its reconstruction. We will visit the surviving ancient buildings that formed the medieval palace: the Jewel Tower, built to house Edward III’s treasury in 1365, and Westminster Hall, one of the largest medieval structures in England and the setting for coronation banquets and important trials alike.

Take Aways

Wrapping up, we'll discuss the English Parliamentary system, made up of two ‘houses,’ the Commons and the Lords, and how this has changed over the centuries. We will consider the new Supreme Court building and the role of the judiciary in the government of England through the ages and, finally, we may visit Westminster Abbey, once the glory of medieval monarchy and now the setting for coronations where monarchs are anointed by the will of the people in Parliament. Visitors will leave having gained a deeper understanding of British and global political history.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins and ends in the Westminster neighborhood. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

No, this is mostly concentrated in and around Westminster. There are some opportunities to sit if needed.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, although this tour takes place mostly indoors.

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

In addition to Westminster Abbey and the Banqueting House, we go into Westminster Hall and sometimes the Court of Justice. We do not go in and listen to the debates in the House of Commons and the House of Lords because the lines are just too long.

Does this tour include an inside visit Parliament? No, Parliament only allows their own tours led by their guides. You can view more info here. Keep in mind, Westminster is huge, and Parliament is only one part of it!

In 1666, the medieval city all but disappeared in the Great Fire of London. The city was rebuilt on the footprint of its predecessor, but once again fell in danger of destruction during the Blitz of 1940-1941. One of the worst nights was the Sunday between Christmas and New Year's Day, December 29, 1940, when German planes devastated the area around St Paul’s while most Londoners were enjoying their Christmas break. Those working on the ground dubbed it 'The Second Great Fire of London. On this London WWII Tour, led by a local historian, we'll explore this dark chapter of the city's history, and discover how Churchill's leadership and England's resilience allowed them to overcome the fierce bombings.

• London WWII Tour led by a local historian.
• Includes visits to the Museum of London and St Paul's Cathedral.
• Small group walks—6 people max

"I ended the tour having walked the Blitz, felt inspired by the resilience of the British population."

London WWII Tour

Our walk will start at the Museum of London with its post-1666 galleries, a recent addition, where we will discuss the life of Londoners before and during the war. We will continue with a walk into the Barbican and then to Guildhall, telling the story of that fateful night in 1940 and the people who fought to save what they could of the city and its people. Thanks to the vigilance of the firewatchers on the roof of St Paul's, the cathedral, a symbol of strength for Londoners, was saved.

After the Blitz

Much of the City of London was rebuilt, and most important buildings were restored while others were removed altogether. We will see sites that fit into both categories: churches carefully put back together and others that were left as ruins—a memorial to that awful night. We will pass by the original location of St. Mary Aldermanbury, dismantled and shipped to Fulton, Missouri after the war.

At St. Paul's

Our walk will end at St. Paul's (which we delve further into on our St. Paul's Cathedral Tour), in which we will learn more about the church that helped sustain the spirit of the city's residents. If time and stamina allow, we will climb to the very top, above the dome, and marvel at the roofs of the cathedral, so carefully protected every night by its teams of volunteers. From there, we have a bird's eye view of the city through which we have been walking.

Take Aways

Finishing our tour, we'll come away with an understanding of how fragile the fabric of cities really are. We will also develop a deeper knowledge at the havoc caused by both the two 'Great Fires' of London and how the local community came together on both occasions, to restore the city to its former glory.

Note: This walk can be customized to include the Churchill War Rooms.

To discover more about how London was rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, we suggest our Christopher Wren Churches Tour.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins near the Museum of London and ends at St. Paul's. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

We will go inside the Museum of London and St. Paul's.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but most of this tour takes place indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

This walk covers about 1 mile overall. There are occasional opportunities to sit, use the bathroom, and get something to drink if needed.

Hop on a train from London to Hampton Court Palace, and visit the most well-known home of infamous Henry VIII. On this Hampton Court Tour, led by a local British historian, we will both appreciate the opulence and historical significance found throughout the grounds. Together, we will inspect the impressive Tudor frontage, the Great Hall, with its remarkable hammer-beam roof, and the huge kitchens that were once used to cook meals for over 1,000 people. We will also be able to see vestiges of several of Henry VIII's six queens, further informing our understanding of the history of the place—Catherine of Aragon’s symbol, the pomegranate, can be seen above a door frame, Jane Seymour’s arms decorate a ceiling, and it is in the Great Watching Chamber that Catherine Howard’s adultery was announced, leading to her execution.

• Hampton Court Tour led by a British History expert.
• Small groups - No more than six people.
• Examines the impressive Hampton Court, as well as the history of Henry VIII and other memorable residents
• Great for families

Hampton Court Tour

On the tour, while we will discuss Henry VIII and the Tudor palace, we will also discover that there is much more to glean about British history by visiting Hampton Court. We'll start our tour by disembarking the train and crossing the River Thames, where we will discuss the importance of the river to monarchs over the centuries. Upon entering the palace, our discussion will move to how, in 1236, the Knights Hospitallers of St. John Jerusalem acquired the Manor of Hampton and used it as a grange, or center, for their agricultural estates before it was leased in 1508 to Cardinal Wolsey, Henry VIII’s Chief Minister. Wolsey carried out vast building works and turned the manor into a magnificent palace; as such, we will discuss both his architectural innovations and his life.

" Our guide's knowledge of history kept us all captivated. It felt like reading a book you didn’t want to put down."

A Royal Residence

In the late 1600s, Hampton Court was adopted by the joint monarchs, William III and Mary II. They hired the great Baroque architect Sir Christopher Wren (the subject of our Christopher Wren Churches Tour) to rebuild the King’s and Queen’s Apartments. We will see the rooms that they used for public ceremonies as well as for private moments. while discussing the functions of these rooms and the daily lives of the monarchs who used them.

Royal Opulence

The Prince and Princess of Wales, the future George II and Queen Caroline, also lived at Hampton Court and redecorated the apartments using fashionable architect and interior designer William Kent. On our travels through the apartments, we will also see great works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings, precious sixteenth-century tapestries, and the Renaissance masterpiece by Mantegna, "The Triumphs of Caesar."

To The Gardens

Then we will move onward to the gardens, where we will discuss the history from the Tudors to today and wander through the many different areas, from the formal gardens to the orchard, from the 200-year-old Great Vine to the Rose Garden, as well as to the site of Henry VIII’s tiltyard where tournaments were held. At the end, if you still have the energy, you might like to get lost in Hampton Court’s famous maze.

Looking for more royal splendor? Try our Tower of London Tour.

For private tours we can organize a bike excursion to Hampton Court and a lesson of Real Tennis at the Royal Tennis Court. Please ask our office for more info.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins at Hampton Court station and ends inside the palace grounds. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number. Hampton Court is very easy to get to by train. South West Trains run direct from London Waterloo to Hampton Court. The journey only takes 35 minutes.

Can I take pictures?

Yes, photography and/or filming is permitted in all areas of the palace with the exception of the Chapel Royal, Royal Pew and Cumberland Art Gallery.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Will you pre-purchase tickets?

We pre-purchase tickets to Hampton Court. Your docent will have them on hand.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is Hampton Court accessible?

Hampton Court Palace is an historic building and, therefore, has uneven surfaces. We therefore recommend that wheelchair users bring their own wheelchair for comfort and ease. Most of the routes within the palace are accessible to visitors unable to climb stairs as there is a lift to take visitors to the State Apartments on the first floor. Staff and docents will be happy to help. However, many of the staircases are wide and shallow (having been built for William III who was asthmatic).

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The walk is at a leisurely pace. There are occasional opportunities to sit, use the restroom, and get something to drink if needed.

Charles Dickens called London his 'Magic Lantern.' The city not only became his inspiration but also served almost as a character itself in his novels. He tramped the streets alone from an early age and was himself a wonderful mimic of the living characters he found there. This 3-hour Dickens Tour of London focuses on the life and work of Charles Dickens. By connecting a number of his works to the places related to his life and characters, we will paint a portrait of Dickens, his times, and the social context in which he lived.

• Dickens Tour of London led by historian or literature expert
• A insider's view into Dickens's London
• Small group—6 people max

Dickens Tour London

We start our walk near Temple, discussing Dickens's early years as a young worker in the Blacking Warehouse and the influence that those years had in creating characters like Oliver Twist and Little Dorrit. We will discuss the geographic division of the city and the presence of the famous rookeries—nineteenth-century slums—in the heart of London.

Convent Garden

After a short walk, we will find ourselves in the area of Covent Garden. Here, we will discuss Dickens's connection to the place both as a child and as a famous writer. From here, we may head towards Bloomsbury, the center of literary London and home to the Dickens family from 1837 to 1839 (we also offer a London Literature Tour in Bloomsbury). Alternatively, we may delve into Marylebone, where the writer lived for over ten years. Then again, we might explore the areas around Saint Bartholomew, Newgate, and Holborn, where scenes of many exciting episodes in his novels took place.

Dickens's Daily Life

If time allows, and depending on interest, we may visit 48 Doughty Street, the only remaining London home of Charles Dickens. Here, among rare manuscripts and original furniture, we'll talk about Dickens's daily life and his work as a novelist and tireless social campaigner. The characters described by Dickens are intrinsically linked to his life in London as a writer and publisher and as direct witness of the terrible social conditions of the nineteenth century. As a result, our walk will look closely at the social and economic events of the 1800s and paint a portrait of the times in this context.

Hungry? Try our London Food Tour.

Take Aways

The tour will offer us ample opportunity to discuss the influence of the city and its history on the style and on the personal life of Dickens and his contemporaries working in other disciplines. By the end of our time together we will emerge with a very vivid picture of the era in this context.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where do we end?

We start our walk near Temple, and typically end at 48 Doughty Street, the only remaining London home of Charles Dickens. You confirmation email will have the exact meeting point information, along with a map, and emergency phone number.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! If your children are familiar with Dickens, we some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of kids and teens. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The tour moves at a leisurely pace and covers about 1.5 miles.

The National Gallery houses one of the greatest collections of Western paintings in the world. From a striking Northern Renaissance collection, to one of Da Vinci's finest, through the Post-Impressionists, a walk through the National Gallery is akin to a stroll through the annals of western civilization's best works. This National Gallery Tour, led by an art historian, will lead us through an in-depth exploration of the Gallery, providing a sense of context and progression to this unparalleled collection.

• National Gallery Tour led by an art historian
• Small group—6 people max
• Includes works from Da Vinci and Van Eyck to Van Gogh and Monet

National Gallery Tour

We begin the visit in the Sainsbury Wing, where the Gallery houses its earliest works—paintings from 1250-1510, encompassing Late Gothic, Early Renaissance, and Renaissance art. Our discussion will revolve around the development of painting, and how the context and function of works of art shaped their appearance from exquisite, jewel-like private devotional altarpieces to Raphael’s grand and spatially sophisticated Ansideialtarpiece. Our course through this wing will depend on our docent's intellectual proclivity and the interests of the group, but our focus will include such works as Paolo Uccello's The Battle of San Romano, Jan Van Eyck's Arnolfini Portrait, Botticelli's Venus and Mars, and Leonardo Da Vinci's Venus of the Rocks.

"Really great! We had been to the gallery numerous times but our docent really gave us new insight."

A Walk through Western History

During our walk, we will stop to consider works by artists like Raphael, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, discussing their investigations into the human figure and analyzing their use of perspective and light to achieve works of subtle psychological tension and complex but balanced compositions.

We might then move on to discuss how the Baroque artists like Peter Paul Rubens and Caravaggio used compositional devices, such as the structure of the space, the presence of light and shade, and the human figure itself to create dramatic scenes. Alternatively, we could examine the expert handling of paint and subtle control of lighting effects employed by masters of the Dutch ‘Golden Age’ of the seventeenth century, whose portrayal of everyday life was unsurpassed and whose interest in the manipulation of perspectival techniques is epitomized by Van Hoogstraten’s delightful ‘peepshow’ view of a bourgeoisie interior.

Forward in Time

Depending on the interests of the group, we can then explore other periods represented in the Gallery and consider the stylistic and technical devices employed by artists in order to achieve their specific aims, depending on the period, the fashion, or the desires of the patron. We will finish the walk in the late 1800s with works by Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Vincent Van Gogh, and other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists. In light of the works we have considered throughout the tour, we will examine how these artists challenged the traditional conventions of depiction.

Take Aways

This personalized walk through 700 years of Western art and history will supply the visitor with not only a unique visual experience, but also an understanding of key moments, characters, and movements in the history of art.

Looking to explore more art in London? We suggest our Victorian and Albert Museum Tour, or for a more modern look, our Tate Modern Tour.

FAQ

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

The tour takes place inside the National Gallery.

Will you pre-purchase tickets?

The permanent collection of the National Gallery is free to visit, so no tickets are required, however donations are appreciated. If you are interested in seeing one of the temporary exhibitions, we advice you book this tour privately. We will arrange for tickets.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Also, you may consider our family focused, interactive tours.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

No, all the tour takes place inside the museum. The National Gallery is fully accessible and has plenty of places to sit.

Behind the sprawl of modern London lies the secret history of the capital's most daring and controversial source of entertainment: the theater. During this London Theater Tour, we'll reconstruct London's historic stages, and come to understand the social and artistic forces that were born here and that still underpin entertainment in the western world. In particular, we'll explore the influence of one William Shakespeare, whose works, staged in London, continue to resonate throughout the world today.

• Explores the life and times of William Shakespeare
• Small group and private options
• London Theater Tour led by a theater historian

Shakespeare Tour

Any discussion of the English theater (or theatre, if you prefer) has to start with Shakespeare. Thus we will begin our walk on the South Bank, not far from the Globe Theatre, the modern reconstruction of the playhouse where many of Shakespeare's plays were premiered. Starting here, on the banks of the Thames, takes us back to a time when the theater was a public arena, when plays were a part of everyday life. At the same time, as we explore the surrounding area, we will discover why the theater was feared for so long that it was banished across the river, to this dangerous and dissolute area that was then well outside the city walls.

London Theater Tour

Crossing the river, we will find ourselves transported two centuries forward, to an era when two great royal theaters, Drury Lane and Covent Garden, dominated London's social life. We will explore one of these theaters, both of which have a two-hundred-year legacy, and talk about a few of the legendary performances that gripped audiences in a way that no star could match today. However, as we walk around the area and uncover its history, we will also discover how strong the prejudices were that theaterfolk had to overcome: Both of these historic theaters were situated on the edge of desperate slums, in the midst of an infamous district of market stalls and bagnios that were infiltrated nightly by the demi-monde.

Looking for other can't-miss sites in London? Try our Tower of London Tour or Westminster Abbey Tour.

Upward Mobility

The story of how the theatre turned respectable is also the story of how London changed from an anarchic free-for-all into the proud, somewhat pompous Victorian capital that we see around us today. It is also the story of Shakespeare: of how an obscure boy from the English Midlands awkwardly and haltingly became recognized as the greatest dramatist the world has ever known.

For a broader range of walks in this area take a look at all our history tours of London.

Take Aways

At the end of our time together we'll emerge with a deeper understanding of English theatre as it unfolded in London, from the time of Shakespeare to the grand performances of the Victorian Age. We should also, if fancy strikes, be done in time for a show.

FAQ

Do we go inside the Globe during this tour?

No, our walk includes a discussion of the Globe and the Swan theatre, but we don't go inside. The Globe offers group tours led by the theatre staff. However, we visit part of the Royal Opera House and Drury Lane Theatre.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent. Read more about a family experience on our walk.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

Generally, we cover about 2 miles at a gentle pace.

Have you ever wanted to live like a prince or princess? Our London Tour for Kids in Kensington Palace will take us into the former London residence of Queen Victoria and Princess Diana and current home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Here we will learn about the rebellious princess who ran from an arranged marriage into the arms of love, and more. These stories are woven into the fabric of the palace through theatrical performances, art installations, fashion, and music, against the backdrop of the historic State Apartments.

• Learn about Royal London in Kensington Palace
• Interactive, learning activities.
• London Tour for Kids led by a family friendly historian.
• Includes skip-the-line tickets.

"Our children are still chattering about the stories of the king who died on the toilet.”

London Tour For Kids - Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace has a rich history that begins with the first monarchs to live there, William III and Mary II, who invaded England and took the throne in 1689 after the Glorious (and allegedly bloodless) Revolution of 1688. Suffering from severe asthma and in need of clean country air rather than the stench and dirt of London proper, William and his wife rebuilt a small country house which became Kensington Palace, home of monarchs.

Setting the Stage

We will hear about their lives, but also of the lives of their often forgotten consorts, Queen Mary the collector, Sophia Dorothea, who never saw England and was imprisoned in a castle for 30 years, and Queen Caroline, an intellectual and one of the most powerful women in British history. After George II, the official residence of the monarch in London moved to Buckingham Palace, though Kensington Palace remained a home for royals. It was here that Princess Victoria spent her childhood and discovered, early one morning in 1837, that the king had died and that she was now Queen Victoria at the age of 18.

Today, the palace is associated with perhaps its most famous residents, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge William and Kate and their children, George and Charlotte.

Looking for more family-friendly activities? Try out Tower of London for Kids or British Museum for Kids Tours.

Take Aways

With the help of our map, the clues, and the palace guardians we will search for these stories and many more. We will enter the world of Kensington Palace and come away having learned about the lives and stories of this magical residence.

FAQ

Who lives in the Palace? Will we see William and Kate?

Current residents include TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge who moved in to Princess Margaret's former apartment with their son Prince George. They have now been joined by Princess Charlotte, born 02 May 2015. Prince Harry also now lives in a separate apartment within Kensington Palace. Their residences are not open to the public, however, we have caught glimpses of the Royal family in the past.

Can I take pictures inside Kensington Palace?

Yes, photography is allowed in Kensington Palace. Please be mindful of both the delicate fabric of the building and of other visitors.

South West England is rich in history and natural beauty. From the mysterious stones of Avebury and Stonehenge, to the Uffington White Horse, Bath, and the Salisbury Cathedral, there is a wealth of astonishing sites to take in. Our full-day Stonehenge Tour including Bath and Salisbury, led by a local historian and designed as a day trip from London, offers a glimpse of a deeply distinct part of England. Together, we'll explore the history, mystery, and profound beauty of this region.

• Visit Stonehenge, Bath, and Salisbury
• Small groups—max 6 people
• Stonehenge Tour customizable to suit your interests

Stonehenge Tour

Arriving by train from London, our exploration of the South West will begin from Salisbury station. Here we will meet our docent and driver and proceed to Stonehenge, just in time for its opening to the public, in order to beat the crowds and enjoy the view of the stones in tranquility. In the company of our expert, we will engage in the ongoing discussion regarding the origin and significance of the stones, while learning to distinguish historical facts from well established traditions. We will also have time to walk in the archaeological park and take in the ethereal magic of the site.

In the English Countryside

From here, we'll depart for our next stop, which depending on the day and the clients preference may be Bath (where we also have a standalone Bath Tour) or Salisbury Cathedral, but not before stopping in a local country pub for lunch. We may taste some of the local ales and indulge in traditional dishes such as game pies or a simple ploughman's lunch. After lunch, we'll proceed to the second part of our exploration.

Looking for another day trip from London? Try our Cambridge Tour.

Bath and Salisbury

If heading to Bath, we'll stroll through the Georgian streets while learning about the city's Roman origins and its later connections to the dandies and fashionables of London. Our docent will explain the role of the Roman Baths and how they are still today a fundamental fixture of the town. If we feel inclined, we may proceed inside and visit the Baths before taking the train back to London at the end of the day.

In Salisbury, our visit will focus on the Cathedral, home of the Magna Carta and exquisite example of Early English architecture. We will talk about the Cathedral's musical history and tradition dating back to the foundation of the church in 1258, as well as its role in innovation (the Salisbury Cathedral was the first English cathedral to recruit girl choristers in 1991). Our discussion will cover the once thriving town of Old Sarum and Salisbury's original cathedral, now only visible in its outline. We'll learn how many of its stones were re-used in the construction of the new building and why both city and cathedral moved from their original location to today's one.

Take Aways

As our day together comes to a close, we will have uncovered what makes South West England such a rich destination to visit: lesser-known charms, incredible landscapes, beautiful architecture, and the memorable UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Stonehenge and Avebury. At the end of the day, we'll return to London on one of the many direct trains that run between the two locations.

Booking Instructions

Please note: You will meet your docent and driver in Salisbury (we will provide detailed instructions). In general, the full-day excursion has you back in London by 8:00 pm. If you are staying in Bath, Salisbury or anywhere outside of London, please let us know and we can assist you with transport information. Note that we can also conduct a two-day extended excursion (private).

You will be responsible for purchasing train tickets at the station. Included in your confirmation will be details regarding which trains to take and how to book. If you prefer to travel by car from London, we can arrange for a full day car service. Please leave a note to this effect in your booking.

FAQs

Can I see the inside of Stonehenge? 
Although not possible during normal opening hours, you may visit the inside of Stonehenge by pre-booking with Stonehenge Circle Access. Visits take place in the early morning or late evening only and last for one hour, with a maximum of 26 participants on each visit. Stonehenge Circle Access should be booked well in advance of when you plan to visit. Those interested in booking must complete an Application Form. The cost of the ticket for accessing the stones is about 38GBP per person. Depending on the time of the year, early morning visits take place at 6:30-7:30 or 8 AM. Please include a note in your booking if you are interested in this option.

Where do we meet? Where do we end? 
You will meet the docent and driver at the Salisbury train station. Trains are very easy to use and navigate in the UK. We suggest the 8:20am train from London Waterloo, to get you to Salisbury by 9:45am. From there you will proceed by private car that we've arranged for you. The day will end in Bath or Salisbury, depending on your preference, where the driver will drop you off at the Station. From there, you will catch the train back to London. Your confirmation email will have more information, the exact meeting point, along with a map and emergency phone number.

Can I arrange for private car service beginning and ending in London? 
Yes! If you prefer to travel by car from London, we can arrange for a full day car service. Please leave a note to this effect in your booking. We'll be in touch with further information

What if it’s raining? 
Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids? 
Yes! We some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of kids and teens. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

With its expansive diaspora, most cities around the world—including London—have felt the influence of Jewish culture. Our Jewish London Tour traces the history of Jews in Britain's capital from the Middles Ages to the present. It visits an array of important historical sites, including Bevis Marks, the Sandy Row Synagogue, and the Kinder Transport Memorial, and along the way paints a vivid, informative portrait of London's Jewish population through history.

• Jewish London Tour vsits synagogues and memorials
• Expert docent with specialism in Jewish history
• Small groups—6 people max
• Discover the rich history of this active local community

Jewish London Tour

Jewish history in London began in 1066, when William the Conqueror encouraged Jewish merchants and artisans from northern France to move to England. From that time (notwithstanding Edward the First's mass expulsion in 1290) London has been home to a very diverse and active Jewish community, one that established itself primarily in the area east of Tower Hill. Our Jewish London tour traces the history of these different communities, some of which continued to live in London after the expulsion, but the majority of whom entered into England only during the seventeenth century under the decree of Oliver Cromwell.

Synagogues in London

From Jewry Street, where first Jewish community of London made their home 800 years ago, to Bevis Marks, the first purpose-built Sephardi Synagogue opened in 1701, we will delve into the stories of the Jewish families that lived, struggled and prospered in this area of London. Continuing east, we will come across Gravel Lane and the site of the famous Petticoat Lane Market. It was here that hundreds of Ashkenazi Jews worked and settled in the eighteenth century. We will discuss the importance of the rag trade (selling second hand clothes) and the role of the Jewish Welfare Board, which was established in 1859.

Those interested in learning the history of other subjugated groups in London may find our London Slavery Tourinformative.

Commemorating Those Lost

After a quick visit to Sandy’s Row Synagogue, we will finish our walk at the Kinder Transport Memorial, located at Liverpool Street Station. In 1938, the British Government gave permission for 10,000 Jewish refugee children to enter the country after escaping from Nazi Germany. The children were saved, but never saw their parents again. As Liverpool Street Station was the site of their arrival, this fitting monument was placed to preserve their memory.

Learn more about WWII in England in our Churchill War Rooms Tour.

Take Aways

Our Jewish London walking seminar weaves a tale of the history of the Jewish community in London, giving visitors a distinct sense of its rich culture and history. Spanning a wide time span, our docent, an expert in Jewish history, will provide you with a deeper sense of how these communities developed from their initial inception in 1066 and subsequent flourishing in the seventeenth century through their trials during WWII and finally to their triumphs in modern London.

Context Travel is also able to arrange a special Custom Jewish History itinerary at the British Museum, following the Old Testament stories of the Jews through correlating artifacts on display. Please email our office for more information.

FAQ

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

We will go inside Bevis Marks temple and sometimes we also go inside Sandy’s Row Synagogue.

Will you pre-purchase tickets?

It's not possible to buy tickets in advance, but our docent will facilitate the purchase of tickets, so you will not wait in line.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The walk covers approximately 2 miles, but we go at a gentle pace. If you have any special requirement, please let us know at the time of booking.

Just a few paces from the bustle of the Strand lays one of London’s best-kept secrets: a patchwork of secluded squares, alleyways and courtyards that has been home to the legal profession since the Middle Ages, when students first came to study and live at the ancient Inns of Court. Today the four great Inns—Middle Temple, Inner Temple, Lincoln’s Inn, and Gray’s Inn—still form thriving communities providing a base for most of the country’s barristers within easy walking distance of the nation’s principal courts. This Inns of Court Tour, led by a barrister or law expert, explores the history of the law profession in Britain, as well as the development of the Inns.

• Inns of Court Tour led by a barrister or law expert
• Small groups—max 6 people
• Visits Inns and other sites important to the development of British law

Inns of Court Tour

This 3-hour Inns of Court Tour traces the development of the English legal system, explaining and illustrating its many quirks, from the history of the barristers’ horsehair wigs—still worn for most trials—to the role of Queen’s Counsel or the Lord Chancellor.

Visiting the Inns

Each of the Inns, laid out on much the same pattern as an Oxford college, boasts its own dining hall, chapel, and gardens, together preserving much of the spirit of a bygone London. Architectural treasures range from the 12th century Temple Church and the Tudor gateway at Lincoln’s Inn to the Georgian splendors of New Square and the Victorian grandeur of the Royal Courts of Justice.

The Inns Through History

This area is steeped in cultural and political history: the first performance of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night was staged in the Middle Temple (for those interested, we also offer a London Theater Tour), and the young Charles Dickens worked unhappily here as a young clerk—in fact, the opening passage of Bleak House is set in Lincoln’s Inn Hall. No fewer than 15 Prime Ministers have been members of Lincoln’s Inn; both Tony Blair and Margaret Thatcher once practiced as barristers.

On The Walk

We'll begin our walk at the foot of the Middle Temple Lane beside the Thames and pass through the center of the Inn, taking in the Temple Church—once the headquarters of the medieval Knights Templar and later remodeled by Sir Christopher Wren—as well as the 16th century Middle Temple Hall.

Those interested in Wren may also enjoy our Christopher Wren Churches Tour.

Royal Courts of Justice and Lincoln's Inn

Continuing north, we'll enter the imposing hall of the Royal Courts of Justice, which houses both High Court and the Court of Appeals of England and Wales. Here, we'll visit one of the courts, discussing both the building's historical importance and day-to-day operations. Moving on, we'll have the opportunity to visit Lincoln’s Inn—itself home to a wide array of architectural styles due to continual additions throughout the centuries—to admire the hall and chapel.

Finally, we'll move to West End's Holborn district, where we will visit the Staple Inn, which boasts the only timber-framed façade to survive the Great Fire of London in 1666, as well as Gray’s Inn, famous for its "Walks" or gardens.

Take Aways

In the company of our docent, we will learn about century-old traditions and rules that have defined the distinct character of the legal profession in Great Britain. At the end of our walk, we will have gained a deeper understanding for the role of the Inns and the past and present of barristers in London.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins in the area near Temple tube stop and ends at Gray’s Inn. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

This walk covers about 1 mile overall. There are occasional opportunities to sit if needed.

The Tate Modern is one of the best modern art museums in the world, also featuring some of the world's most innovative contemporary art exhibitions. Our Tate Modern Tour, led by an art historian or curator, is a rich, immersive experience for anyone looking to track the development of art throughout the modern age, from its origins in the early 20th centuries, through surrealism, postmodernism, and up to today.

• Traces the development of modern art, featuring artists like Matisse, Magritte, Miró, Warhol, Beuys, and Judd
• Led by an art historian or artist
• Group tours are capped at 6 people

Tate Modern Tour

We will begin by discussing the history of Tate Modern, particularly the conversion and opening of the gallery in a disused power station in 2000. We will also look into the history of the area, Southwark, and its historical associations with entertainment and industry. Once inside, we will spend some time in the Turbine Hall, which usually features a current installation, before moving into the permanent collection. As we move around the gallery, we will discuss Tate Modern's ground-breaking hang, which challenges the convention of displaying art chronologically and is instead organized around four wings, each of which is centered on a seminal artistic moment of the twentieth century.

A Thematic Approach

As we work our way through twentieth-century art we will discuss why certain styles and movements proliferated at this time and examine different artists and works in relation to not only the artistic tradition but also the socio-political climate of the period. We will begin with early challenges to traditional modes of painting, focusing on Cubism, which was pioneered by Picasso and Braque and which questioned the way in which we perceive things, alongside the works of the colorist Henri Matisse, who wanted his art to have the effect of a good armchair on a tired businessman. Tate Modern has one of the finest Surrealist collections in the world; in relation to works by Dali, Magritte, and Miro, we will discuss the beginnings of the movement in the 1920s, its attempts to produce an art of the unconscious, and its ability to question our ideas about reality. Giacometti's sculptures of slender figures will begin an inquiry into how the trauma of World War I and World War II affected modes of representing the human figure as well as the relationship between art and humanity.

Want to see another seminal London museum? Try our National Gallery Tour.

This Is Not a Pipe

We will also look at Marcel Duchamp's radical use of unconventional materials and ready-made objects in the early 1900s and his influence on mid-twentieth century artists such as Andy Warhol, who represents pop art and how it challenged consumer culture; Joseph Beuys, who represents conceptual art and its emphasis of idea over object; and Donald Judd, who represents minimalism and its strongly abstracted works using modern, industrial materials. Last but not least, we will examine works by contemporary practitioners, considering not only their context, but also their place in the trajectory of twentieth-century art.

Take Aways

At the end of our time together we will have a deeper understanding of 20th century art and the work of several practicing contemporary artists. This walk perfectly compliments our Thames River Tour, which takes us down the banks of the River Thames towards Tate Modern.

For centuries the University of Oxford, and, by proxy, the town in which it is located, has been considered a beacon of learning, imagination, and creativity. During our walks through Oxford, near London, we will consider the prestigious history of the town, its present role and the far-reaching influence that the institution has had on modern intellectual thought, religion, politics, art, and architecture.

• Led by an Oxonian.
• Explore the colleges with an insider.
• Small groups, max 6 people.

Oxford Tour

Our starting point will be Christ Church, perhaps the best known of the university's colleges. A discussion of the structured architectural plan of the colleges (including interlocking dormitories, courtyards, dining facilities, and chapels) will segue into a reflection on the town's rich and varied architectural culture, which we will explore further at Sir Christopher Wren's Sheldonian Theatre, James Gibbs' Radcliffe Camera, and even the Malmaison Hotel, a converted nineteenth-century prison. We may then climb the tower of St. Mary's Church to admire those aforementioned "dreaming spires."

A Look Inside

Oxford exudes intellectual activity and scholarly pursuits. Our visits to the colleges will inform our understanding of student life, both past and present, from the point of view of an insider. We will visit memorials that bear witness to important moments in history, including the that of the Oxford martyrs of the Reformation. We'll also Charles I's Royalist headquarters in Oxford during the English Civil Wars and consider Oxford as a hub of religious change during the Victorian period, as illustrated by such figures as Cardinal John Newman, fellow of Oriel College and protagonist of the Oxford Movement.

"Loved the insights she had into both historical and current affairs."

Additional Options

For those interested in a full day excursion, we can plan a longer itinerary that includes a visit to Blenheim Palace and its ‘Capability’ Brown landscape garden. Those interested in our Oxford Tour may also enjoy our Cambridge Tour or our Stonehenge Tour.

FAQ

Where are we meeting our guide?

You will meet your guide in Oxford, at the train station, however, if you are booking a private tour, we can arrange for a different meeting point. There are trains leaving London to Oxford from Paddington Station every half hour.

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

You will go inside colleges and other sites. We will purchase tickets at the time of the visit.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

We cover about 2.5 miles during the walk. There are plenty of opportunities to sit down and rest, but please let us know if you have any concerns.

London is one of the world's powerhouses for contemporary art, bristling with major museums and galleries. A good knowledge of the city will begin to uncover this network, but there is another, hidden world that remains closed to even the most intrepid member of the public—the galleries of the artists themselves. This London Studio Tour, led by a local curator and gallerist, delves into artists' studios for an unparalleled look at cutting-edge contemporary art in progress. With the ability to chat with the artist and see recent creations in an intimate setting, we'll experience the best of London's contemporary art scene in a way few others can.

• London Studio Tour led by a curator and gallerist.
• Meet the artists
• Exclusive access to studios and galleries

" It was a special opportunity to meet several artists and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Memorable!"

London Studio Tour

London's periphery boasts a huge artistic community and, nestled away in their studios, one can find emerging and internationally-established artists alike. This tour gives exclusive access to an ever-evolving, curated selection of artists' studios. It offers a chance to see how cutting-edge, contemporary artists produce their work, a chance to view their latest output, a chance to ask those questions a museum or gallery can never answer, and a chance meet today's artists in their most intimate surroundings.

For seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts alike, this three-hour tour will give an insight into the artists' studios in a selected portion of London. No two tours will ever be the same.

A Unique Experience

This tour is entirely customizable depending on the client's interests and the availability of the artists at the time of the tour. There may be some travel time between studios but the wait promises to be rewarding. These journeys will provide time to discuss studio practice, locations, and etiquettes to ensure you get the most out of your experience.

The cost of this tour includes a private car service. This is necessary to move from one studio to the other as many of them are located in East and South London

Looking to see modern art in London? Try our Tate Modern Tour. For a more encompassing look at art through the centuries, we recommend our National Gallery Tour.

Canterbury is a town rightly famous for its cathedral and the pilgrimages that its shrine to Thomas Becket has inspired over the years—including the pilgrims in Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. However, there is much more to the UNESCO World Heritage Site than its status as an important religious site. This Canterbury Tour, led by a local historian, examines the Roman remains of the town in addition to both more-famous and lesser-known medieval buildings, painting a wide-ranging picture of Roman Britain and medieval England.

• Canterbury Tour led by local expert historian
• Discover Canterbury's lesser-known Roman origin
• Includes a visit to the Canterbury Cathedral
• Small group—6 people max

Canterbury Tour

Taking the train from London, we will arrive in town at Canterbury West station. From here, we will enter the city through the Westgate, the same point at which so many pilgrims throughout the years have entered. The gate lies on the site of the Roman gate into the city, so this monument can be seen as representative of much of Canterbury's early history. Depending on the time and the interest of the group, we may pop into the Roman Museum where we will examine the remains of a rich Roman house and its mosaics, while discussing Roman domestic life amongst the elites. Alternatively, we may take the short walk to the church of St. Mary Northgate, where the remains of the Roman wall of the town, almost at its full height, can still be seen in its north wall.

Following the Roman Wall

Continuing along the path of the Roman wall, we'll arrive at St. Martin's Church, whose site marks the beginning of English Christianity in the late sixth century. We will look at the history of this church and its importance. From here, we may consider Eastbridge Hospital, which was built in 1176 in response to the huge influx of pilgrims now arriving to see the shrine of Thomas Becket.

Those interested in medieval London may also be interested in our Hidden London Tour.

Finding the Friars

A stone's throw away is the thirteenth-century Blackfriars. What is visible today today is all that remains of a much larger friary that was situated on an island in the middle of the Stour River, which runs though Canterbury. The Blackfriars, the Dominican order of monks, were part of one of three orders who settled here in the medieval period. The others were the Greyfriars and Whitefriars, the Franciscan and Carmelite orders respectively. It is to the latter we now go, where we will briefly discuss a recent archaeological dig that has brought to light much of the history of Canterbury.

Take Aways

From there, our walk will take us to the famous, eleventh- and twelfth-century cathedral, where we will examine the location of the Archbishop Thomas Becket's murder and later shrine. This shrine was the focus for the pilgrims arriving in the city and formed the inspiration for Chaucer's 'A Pilgrim's Tale'. The importance of the shrine and its appearance, as it was destroyed during the Reformation, will be discussed, and will serve as the end-point of our walk.

If you are interested in learning more about the relationship between church and government, you may enjoy our London Parliament Tour.

FAQ

Where will we meet our guide?

We meet at Canterbury West Train Station. Once you book, we will send you detailed instructions on how to reach the station and find your docent.

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

We visit several sites, including Canterbury Cathedral.

Will you pre-purchase tickets?

You will purchase your Cathedral ticket at venue, but your docent will have special access privileges, so you will not wait in line.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The walk covers about 2 miles, but it's at leisurely pace and on even ground. The walk is fully accessible. The Cathedral Welcome Centre has a small number of wheelchairs available for free loan to visitors (for use within the precincts).

With its dome commanding the London skyline, St. Paul's Cathedral stands emblematic of London's 17th century—the era of Newton, the Great Fire, and the emergence of England as a world power. It also took on a newfound importance in the modern era, with its continued standing representing the resilience of the British during World War II. In this St. Paul's Cathedral Tour, led by an architectural historian, we'll dive deeply into this masterpiece, the history it encompasses, and its continued impact.

• Discover the impact behind St. Paul's Cathedral
• Led by an architectural historian
• Small group—6 people max

The Fire

We'll begin with a short walk of the grounds of St. Paul's Cathedral, where archaeologists have recently uncovered the foundations of the Chapter House and St. Paul's Cross, a significant discovery that predates the present structure. However, our conversation will focus on what was arguably the most significant event of the 17th century in London—the Great Fire of 1666. Using drawings, maps, and other ancillary materials we will narrate the events of the Fire and its aftermath.

We will also discuss Old St. Paul's, the Gothic structure that occupied this site until 1666 when it was destroyed in the fire. This will help us understand how this part of London served as the center of the Roman Catholic Church in London before the sixteenth-century Reformation transformed England's religious affiliation.

St. Paul's Cathedral Tour

On entering the cathedral, we will be confronted by a magnificent and spacious interior, beautifully adorned with natural light. This lends itself to a detailed discussion of its designer, Sir Christopher Wren, the Latinist and Aristotelian scholar who became surveyor general of London in the wake of the Fire. As we explore, our attention will be drawn to the architectural details conceived by Wren and made executed through the insight and ability of his trusted team of master craftsmen. We'll look at how Wren was influenced by antiquity and the great architects of his age, including Bernini, whom he met in Paris.

Interested in learning more about religious architecture in London? Try our Westminster Abbey Tour.

The Impact

No monument exists in a vacuum, and this is true of St. Paul's. We will look at some of the nineteenth-century Victorian additions to the structure and their impact on the integrity Wren's vision. We will also look at some of the monuments and tombs that commemorate illustrious eighteenth- and nineteenth-century figures, including Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington, heroes of the Napoleonic Wars. At the east end of the cathedral, we will find the American Memorial Chapel, which was dedicated to the 28,000 members of United States Armed Forces who gave their lives on British soil during World War II and which holds a Roll of Honor that names them all. And, of course, we'll stop by Wren's own tomb where the epitaph reads "Si monumentum requiris circumspice" ("If you seek his monument, look around.")

Thematic Approach

The ways in which St. Paul's has been used as a religious and cultural symbol throughout its history, as well as the position it has held as a focal point for English and British national identity will become apparent in a number of ways when we discuss St. Paul's: as an architectural tour de force, as the vision of one man, as a place to remember and celebrate great figures and events from history, as a site of historical importance for London, and as an Anglican place of worship.

Then, depending on the preference of the group, we can either climb the dome to further examine Wren's architectural innovations, experience spectacular views of the city skyline, and hear ghostly whispers in the famous Whispering Gallery, or we can continue exploring Wren's architecture with a short city walk looking at several of his smaller city churches.

Take Aways

On this tour, we'll use St. Paul's as a text of sorts, where it is possible to read the history London's Stuart age. Together, we'll discover that it emblematic not just of man's desire to reflect divinity on earth, but also of our apparent need to memorialize the great figures and momentous events that are scattered across centuries of this land's history.

This is a great companion to our London City Tour.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins near St. Paul’s and ends inside the cathedral. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and emergency phone number.

Is this tour good for kids?

While we do have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children, we have a separate walk, The Blitz: London During the War. This includes St. Paul’s among other other locations, and is specifically geared towards children.

What if it’s raining?

This tour takes place almost entirely indoors.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

No, this tour takes place almost entirely within the cathedral.

Architectural icon and cultural trendsetter, Bath has been a favorite destination among posh Londoners for over 200 years. While the city may be known primarily for its iconic Roman baths dating back to the AD 60 and icons of Georgian architecture like the Royal Crescent, the story of this city's rise to prominence in the 18th century provides a fascinating frame through which to view the city. This Bath Tour, led by a local historian, explores the many facets of this idyllic South West city, making for a scenic, satisfying day trip from London.

• Bath Tour led by a local historian.
• Explore the Roman Baths, Royal Crescent, and the Circus.
• Perfect day trip from London

Bath Tour

Taking the train from Paddington Station to the city of Bath, we will meet our docent as we disembark, beginning our discussion along the cobbled streets as we walk towards the beautiful Gothic abbey. While admiring the nave and the wonderful west façade of the building, we will consider the role of Bath as an ecclesiastical center and wool trading town during the Middle Ages.

Georgian Architecture

Our day will proceed with a visit to the Royal Crescent and the Circus. Possibly the most famous symbols of Bath, these beautiful Georgian structures tell us the story of the city's renaissance. Here, we will take the opportunity to discuss the architecture, the development of England during the eighteenth century, the importance of landscape architecture, and those characters closely linked to Bath, such as Richard Nash and John Wood the Younger—local entrepreneurs who transformed the city into a fashionable getaway and hub of Georgian architecture.

Looking for another day trip from London? Try our Oxford Tour.

The Roman Baths

We will continue the discussion with another symbol of the city and its origins: the Roman Baths. Here our docent will give an introduction to the museum and how the location of the hot springs determined the foundation of the city in 44 CE. We will discuss the various eras of the building, beginning with the ruins of the Temple of Sulis Minerva under the Grand Pump Room and continuing with the Great Bath. We will also learn how the tradition of using hot springs fell into disuse during the Middle Ages, only to be rediscovered and made fashionable at the end of the seventeenth century.

Please Note: Guiding inside the Roman Baths is not allowed. Our docent will give an introduction outside the Baths but will not be able to discuss the site inside. Audio guides are available.

Please Note: This can be organized privately as a full-day excursion, and may also include other sites like Stonehenge (we also offer a full-day Stonehenge Tour of the South West). In this case, the use of a car and driver will be necessary. On the normal half day, clients depart by themselves from London Paddington station at 10:00 am and arrive in Bath around 11:25 am, where the docent is waiting. We can also arrange private excursions for clients wishing car transportation from London or for visitors staying in Bath. Please contact us for a quote.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

If you're coming from London, the walk begins at the Bath train station and ends back near the station. If you're booking privately and staying in Bath, we will generally start and end near the Roman Baths. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24 hour phone number. From London, Bath is very easy to get to by train and the journey is about 1.5 hours from, leaving every half hour from London Paddington Station.

Do you pre-purchase tickets to the Roman Baths?

The Roman Baths do not allow for tickets to be purchased ahead of time. Tickets can be purchased on arrival at the Roman Baths. Prices are £15 for adults, £13.25 for seniors and students, and £9.50 for kids under 16. Under 6s are free.

Is this tour walking intensive?

We cover about 1.5 miles total at an easy pace.

Step in to the decadence and Victorian formality of Leighton House Museum, built in the mid-nineteenth century as the home and studio of artist Lord Frederic Leighton. The newly-restored house and art collection, located in London’s affluent Holland Park neighborhood, showcases not only the objects and spaces that inspired Lord Leighton, but also the beauty of his private world. This Leighton House Tour explores both Leighton's life and the stories behind his beautiful home in the company of a local art historian.

• Small group walks - no more than six people.
• See Leighton’s Arab Hall
• Leighton House tour led by an art historian

Leighton House Tour

In true Victorian style, Leighton was an avid collector of antiquities, and focused much of his attention on the objets d’art that inspired his own creativity and that presented his taste and status to his clients. Leighton trained as a painter in Florence at the Academia di Belle Arti before moving to Paris in 1855, where he rubbed elbows with French Academy painters such as Delacroix and Ingres. By 1860, Leighton returned to London, where he created one of the city’s most remarkable 19th-century estates and a perfect summation of the period’s Orientalist taste.

Leighton's Collection

Leighton brought back the flavor of his travels to his atelier in London, where he incorporated the subtleties of the Orient, the formality of the French, and the opulence of the Italian Renaissance in the adornment of his workspace at his Holland Park home. Accompanied by a local art historian, we'll marvel at the richly decorated interiors of this historic house as we learn more about how Leighton's home reflects the Victorian English society. We'll start in the dining and drawing rooms with an overview of Lord Leighton’s life and career, discussing the relevance of his work to that his contemporaries.

Exotic Tastes

We will then move through the deep blue Narcissus Hall with its mosaic floors and tiled walls into the Arab Hall, the most decorated part of the home. Here, we will look at the fabulous collection of rare Islamic tiles from Damascus and Syria. The walk will continue to the upper floor with a peek into the double-height Studio and the Silk Room, named for its green silk wall coverings and housing the Mashrabiyah window, a decorative screen that allows for hidden glimpses into the Arab Hall. We will end by seeing Leighton’s austere private bedroom.

Looking to see more of London's opulence? Try our Hampton Court Tour or our London City Tour of Kensington and Knightsbridge.

Take Aways

At the end of the walk, we'll come away having experienced unique example of house museum, and having gained a deep understanding of Leighton's life and influence in London and in Europe.

Read more about the restoration on our post detailing the restoration of the Leighton House Museum.

The Victoria and Albert Museum possesses one of the world's greatest collections of decorative art and design in the world, with a collection running the gamut from preparatory materials for the Sistine Chapel to exquisite Islamic art, like the Ardabil Carpet. Our Victoria and Albert Museum Tour, led by a local historian, explores not only the history of the V&A, delving into its origins in the 1851 Great Exhibition, but provides a comprehensive look at a few of the most important galleries in this expansive museum.

• Victoria and Albert Museum Tour led by a design and history expert
• Small group V&A tours—6 people max
• Discover one of the most diverse fine art collections in the world.

Victoria and Albert Museum Tour

After receiving a brief overview of the museum's history outside the building, our tour will continue inside the museum with a visit to the famous Raphael Cartoons (1515-16), which were created by Raphael as preparatory drawings for tapestries intended to hang in the Sistine Chapel (nota bene: for those also headed to Italy, we offer a Vatican Museum Tour), but which today are considered works of art in their own right. Raphael's drawings depict scenes from the lives of St. Peter and St. Paul; we will analyze each in some depth with a discussion of the history of the cartoons, the Renaissance ideals in art, and the relationship between painting and tapestry weaving. We will continue by discussing the history of art and sculpture in the sculpture galleries with works by the Baroque sculptor Bernini, the neoclassical artist Canova, and the late-nineteenth century sculptor Rodin before moving on to the Cast Courts, which contain casts of artworks and objects from around Europe. The collection includes casts of Michelangelo's sixteenth-century 'David', of the first century Trajan's Column, and of the spectacular sixteenth century tomb of St. Sebaldus. Here, we will discuss the Victorian interest in collecting casts.

A Global Collection

From the Cast Court, we'll move to the British Galleries, which chart the changes in British art and design from the Tudor monarchs in the 1500s to Queen Victoria in 1901, in order to consider in greater depth how different styles arose over the centuries and how the social, cultural, and historical contexts influenced these changes. We will focus on a diverse array of objects such as the sixteenth-century 'Great Bed of Ware', the writing box belonging to Henry VIII, the eighteenth-century Rococo music room from Norfolk House, and the Arts and Crafts style as represented by William Morris in the late nineteenth century.

The Islamic Gallery

We will then compare this emphasis on style and design in Western European production with a visit to the Islamic Gallery, where we will focus on the sixteenth-century 'Ardabil carpet' in relation to the function and design of the art object in the Islamic world as well as the tension that developed between art production and science. Here, we will also explore the effects of trade and cultural exchange on design.

Take Aways

Then, depending on time and interest, we can explore the extensive fashion collection (on which we also offer a Victoria and Albert Museum Fashion Tour), visit the exquisite jewelry galleries, or alternatively discuss the form and function of glass over the centuries.

 FAQ

What's in the V&A museum?

The Museum’s collections span over 2000 years of human creativity, in virtually every medium and drawn from across Europe, the Middle East, India, China, Japan and many other parts of the world.

Is it true that we can see a replica of the Trajan’s Column?

Yes, the tallest object in the collections is a plaster cast of Trajan’s Column, reproduced from the marble original in Rome. It is displayed in two separate towers which if put together would reach 35.6 m high.

Do we need to pay a ticket to get in?

No, unless you want to see one of the temporary exhibitions, the museum is free. However, donations are greatly appreciated.

Though born in Germany, composer George Frideric Handel lived most of life in London as an icon of the 1700s British musical scene. In fact, Handel received so much acclaim, he was given full state honors and a burial in Westminster Abbey, after having died wealthy and renowned. In this London Music Tour, led by a music historian, we will trace a course through Mayfair and Piccadilly, visiting some of the city’s most historic theaters and concert halls as well as the churches and houses where Handel worked and lived.

• Led by a music historian
• Small group—6 people max
• Discover the origins of London's love for music and theater

London Music Tour

Using art and architecture to tell the story, and equipped with audio players that allow us to listen to some of the works we are discussing, we will immerse ourselves in the world of eighteenth-century Baroque London, when the British empire was expanding rapidly, and in the music that reflected this greatness.

On The Walk

Our tour will include visits to Burlington House, St. George Hanover Square, and Theatre Royal Haymarket, where the Messiah made its debut performance in London. We will also visit Handel's home, where he lived for thirty years.

Interested in more art in London? Try our National Gallery Tour or Tate Modern Tour.

London and the Arts

Although ideal for music lovers, this walk is very much designed and geared for any culturally-curious person. We will learn about the role of the musical arts in London, and how, in the time of Handel, the city had an insatiable craving for new music. We will discuss the composer's complex relationship with his patrons and how he went from being a foreign composer to providing the anthems for the coronation of George II (including Zadok the Priest, which has been performed at every British coronation since).

Part of this walk will also dive deeply into opera and the differences between opera and oratorios, anthems and organ concertos as well as how Handel composed different works at different times of his life.

Take Aways

At the end of our time together, we will emerge with a much better appreciation of how Handel guided and nurtured music in Britain during the eighteenth century and how he still does today.

N.B. For private tours, we can include a private performance of Baroque Music as part of the tour.

FAQ

Do we go inside the venues or just see them from the outside?

You will go inside the Handel House Museum and may pop into some churches that are relevant to the history of music in London.

Do we need to pre-purchase tickets?

There is no need to buy tickets in advance. Our docent will facilitate any ticket buying so you will not have to wait in line.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The pace of this walk is very relaxed, we cover about 1.5 mile.

By the second half of the 18th century, London was the capital of a vast Empire, stretching from India to North America and trading in goods and commodities from every continent. This empire, fueled in part by mercantilism and in part by missionary zeal, created a solid economic base for the development of what became the largest formal empire that the world had ever known. However, a less talked about side of the Empire was its complicity in the slave trade; indeed, until the national abolition in 1833, London was a primary actor in the slave trade, financing, purchasing, and protecting shipping routes for slaves. On this London Slavery Tour, led by a local historian, we discover Britain's role in the slave travel, as well as the fight to end it.

• London Slavery Tour led by social historian
• Small groups—max 6 people
• Discover the lesser-known history of London's role in the slave trade

London Slavery Tour

During this 3-hour London Slavery Tour, we will look at how Britain's involvement in the slave trade, starting in the 1500s, remained for centuries the basis of the economic success of the empire. We'll learn how profits gained from human trafficking helped support the expansion of the British Empire as well as the Industrial Revolution. We'll also consider how a combination of economic interests, political changes, and humanitarian struggles changed the role of London from enforcer of the trade to beacon in the fight against the commerce of human beings. We'll analyze the importance of cases like the 1772 ruling that began the long road towards the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade.

On The Walk

Our walk begins at Guildhall, site of the trial for the Zong massacre, the first legal case in Britain involving a slave ship. From here we'll proceed to St. Mary Woolnoth where John Newton, who wrote the words to Amazing Grace and had been a slave ship captain, was rector. Continuing along the streets of the city we'll discuss the importance of the coffee houses as places where traders would conduct business, as well as religious halls where Abolitionist meetings were held.

Interested in learning more about London history? Try our Churchill War Rooms Tour or New York Times

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

Generally speaking, the walk begins near Guildhall. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24 hour phone number for any last minute issues. The walk typically ends at the Slavery and Sugar gallery of the Docklands museum.

What if it’s raining?

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

This walk covers about 1 mile overall. There are occasional opportunities to sit, use the bathroom, and get something to drink if needed.

The fashion collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum is a unique treasure trove for trend setters and fashion lovers. This Victoria and Albert Museum Fashion Tour takes dedicated followers of fashion on a journey though 250 years of “la mode” in the fashion collection at the V&A Museum. In addition to learning about the history of couture and the ways style has evolved through the decades, we'll also discover why London was, and still is, a hub for high fashion.

• Led by a fashion or art historian.
• Learn about fashion history in the world's capital of trend.
• Small group—maximum 6 people.

Victoria and Albert Museum Fashion Tour

What made English trend-setters exchange their muslin prints, silks, and pearls for safety pins, plaid, and underwear as outerwear? What did the ton—the fashionable society—wear in the eighteenth century, and how did the Industrial Revolution in Britain affect what we wear in the twenty-first century? What made the 1930s slink, the 1960s swing, and the 1980s rock?

For a more general look at the galleries, try our Victoria and Albert Museum Tour.

Using the museum galleries as a backbone, we will weave a narrative connecting the history of Britain, its geographical and cultural expansion and the influence that this had on the development of fashion. From fabrics and precious stones brought in from the four corners of the Empire, to the traditional Harris Tweed woven in the Hebrides, we will discuss all aspect of the fashion industry and how they survive in Great Britain.

Fashion Icons Through the Ages

We will consider past movers and shakers that have made London the most creative and dynamic centre for fashion in the world in the twenty-first century. We will admire one-of-a-kind court dresses from 1750, consider style icons of the past, and discuss the role of contemporary fashion muses. There will also be an opportunity to explore the greater picture and consider how 250 years of history and the spirit of the times are reflected in that phenomenon we call fashion.

Those interested in visiting today's finest department stores may be interested in our London City Tour of Kensington and Knightsbridge.

For private tours this walk can be extended to include a visit to boutiques and fashion designers around London.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where do we end?

We will meet near the V&A, and end inside the museum. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point, along with a map and emergency phone number.

Is this tour good for kids?

Yes! We some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of kids and teens. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.

Is this a walking intensive tour?

The tour moves at a leisurely pace. There are opportunities to sit, and use the restroom if needed.

Is the V&A mobility friendly?

Yes, the museum has a stair-free entrance, and the majority of the museum is accessible to wheelchair users.

Our in-depth walking tours are designed to paint an inspiring picture of the city, creating memorable experiences of learning and discovery along the way. Concentrating on the wealth of knowledge our London city guide has to offer, it can be tough to remember to capture these travel memories. We’ve teamed up with Flytographer to offer a special package: those booking private walks with us in London have the opportunity to be joined by professional local photographer for part of their walk.

• Memorable moments captured.
• Custom London Walking Tour with photo shoot
• Professional photos.

Custom London Walking Tour with Photo Shoot

Flytographer helps travelers capture stunning vacation photos of everyone together, in amazing places. They have local, carefully vetted, photographers available in over 160 destinations, who will meet you for a fun, candid photoshoot. The result? Wall­-worthy vacation photos with everyone together. Gorgeous photos you can't capture alone. A charming local photographer. A priceless souvenir of your trip.

Combine a Flytographer photo shoot with your choice of Context walk in London with our special package. Just write which of our London walks you’d like to combine with your Flytographer shoot in the Trip Notes section when placing an order.

Within 5 business days of the walk, digital photos will be emailed to the you via an online gallery, along with a link to download all the high resolution photos.

The default price for this package is £650, which is based on a 3-hour walk and 1.5 hours with the Flytographer (usually the first 30 minutes are spent with the photographer alone, before the walk starts), followed by 45 photographs. Please also note that certain tours cannot run every day of the week. We will work with you to adjust scheduling and pricing (should the tour you request be a non-standard price) before charging..

FAQ

How will I know which walks work best for a photoshoot? We find that natural light is best, and encourage walks with interesting or iconic backdrops that showcase a sense of "place." If you have a question about choosing a walk, don't hesitate to ask us.

How long will it take for my photos to be processed? How will they be delivered? Within 5 business days of the tour, digital photos will be emailed to you via an online gallery, along with a link to download high resolution photos. Do contact us at info@contexttravel.com should you have additional questions about this service.

I use a wheelchair, can I book this tour? Absolutely. Please contact us to discuss which of our tours will work best for your mobility needs.

Will I know in advance who my photographer will be?Flytographer works with a number of photographers in each city and the photographer assigned to you will depend on availability for your tour date. Feel free to browse Flytographers at the above link and let us know if you have a particular preference - we'll do our best to match you with your choice, although please be aware that we cannot guarantee which photographer you will be paired with until we check availability.

What qualifications will my photographer have? All Flytographers have a minimum of 2 years' professional experience, but many are very much more experienced. They all have a modern, fresh style using lots of natural light. They are also warm, open minded personalities who have experience working with customers.

When is the best time of day to schedule a walk? Morning, before 11 am, or after 2 pm--but remember that in winter this means the walk might finish after dark.

Are there any times of day that will definitely not work? Yes, midday to 2 pm, and anytime after twilight.

Can we book a Flytographer for a walk that takes place indoors? No. To ensure we get fresh, bright, beautiful shots, we’ll need lots of natural light.

Will I meet the photographer before the docent? Yes. We’ve found that it’s best you to connect with your Flytographer around 30 minutes before the walk is due to start, to get to know each other and start capturing some candid shots.

How long will the Flytographer be with my group? The standard photoshoot duration is 1.5 hours, so this usually means an hour on the walk. Then you’ll continue the walk as usual with your docent.

What are Flytographer’s Terms of Service? Context Travel and all end users of Photography Services are subject to the Terms of Service furnished by Flytographer Enterprises Ltd. at the above link and here. Flytographer Enterprises Ltd. reserves the right to update or amend such terms of service at any time, for any reason. Context Travel agrees and accepts, and will make available to each end user and ensure that each end user accepts and agrees to comply with, such terms of service.

You can find Flytographer’s full FAQ here.

Delve into the depths of one of London’s most important eras—the 267 days between September 1940 and May 1941 when German forces made over 70 air raids on the city, known as the London Blitz. During this 3.5-hour tour Churchill War Rooms Tour, led by a historian and also including the Museum of London and St. Paul's Cathedral, we’ll explore daily life in London during World War II and the impact of war on the city. We’ll look closely at the daily life of Londoners during the war, and focus closely on the figure of Winston Churchill and the key decisions that he made.

For centuries, London has been the center of the art market. Names like Christie's, Sotheby’s, and Bonhams are synonymous with luxury art trade today, but where does this tradition come from? On this walk we'll learn about the history of the auction houses, how art dealers function, and how the two interrelate.

Feel like a million dollars behind the wheel of this stunning 4.7l V8 Maserati GranCabrio. Have the roof down and the wind blowing through your hair - the Maserati's exotic engine roar is guaranteed to put a huge smile on your face. Roar past Buckingham Palace, or perhaps a cruise up to the beautiful and tranquil Regent's Park - the perfect spot to get to grips with this incredible machine. Tour can be tailored to the perfect route for your favorite London sites. If you would rather escape the hustle and bustle of city life, why not head out of town on a Bond-style country getaway. Engage "sport mode" while tackling winding country roads in the beautiful English countryside and feel absolutely fantastic. For those who don't fancy driving, let the driver/guide take over instead while you sit back and bask in the Maserati luxury. Choose between 2 different durations, and 2 times of the day. You and up to 2 extra guests (ages 14 and up) can fit into this luxury vehicle.

Your highly personal supercar experience of a lifetime begins at the café at Speakers’ Corner in Hyde Park, near Marble Arch, in the heart of London at your predetermined time. There, you will meet your friendly and knowledgeable guide - the man with the keys. Your guide will help you tailor the perfect route for your ride. Following a quick safety briefing it’s off to meet Harry, the Maserati. You can choose from a 60-minute stylish cruise around your favourite London sites or head out of town on an incredibly special 2-hour country ride, where you will be able to open Harry up on the motorway and along winding country roads. Whatever your choice, you will be certain to fall in love with this incredible machine. Remember, the Maserati has two rear seats so you can bring along up to two passengers to join in and capture the whole thing on camera. At the end of your ride you will return to Hyde Park.

You must be between 21 and 65 years of age and hold a full and valid UK license to drive. If you hold a full and valid license from another country and you have experience driving in the UK, please get in touch explaining your circumstances before booking. If you would rather not drive, then the guide can drive you instead while you sit back, relax and take in the sites.

Our private One Day London Tour is completely customizable. Typical itineraries follow a theme: from royal London, to art and collectors, architecture, urban planning, or those just looking for the best food in the city, our team of experts can accommodate nearly every request.

• One Day London Tour led by a local expert and city insider
• Hotel pick-up can be arranged
• Custom-designed itinerary based on your interests

With a network of local experts on the ground we can design a private tour of London on a wide range of topics. However, before requesting a custom tour, you might want to take a look at our full list of London walking tours—chances are, we've likely thought about it. For example, if you're looking for a solid introductory walking tour of the city, take a look at our London City Tour. Or, art lovers should consider our Tate Modern Tour, which provides a art historian-guided introduction to the legendary Vatican Museum. We also offer a London Food Tour, introducing visitors to traditional English fare and historically important shops.

Something Else in Mind?

If none of these pre-designed tours fit your needs, we'd be happy to work with you to develop something personalized. In the notes section of this booking form, let us know the following:

• How many hours would you like the walk to be?
• What are your main goals for the walk?
• Which sites and museums would you like to prioritize? Do you want to just pass by or explore inside as well?
• Give us one or two words to describe your group.

Once we receive your custom walk request, we'll review these details and follow up with you by email to refine your itinerary and give you final pricing.

Don't worry, we will not be charging your card at this point. Your order will go into our system as pending.

Please note that clients requesting a full day that includes either the Tower of London or the Royal Mews will be charged for advance tickets in order to avoid lines at the time of the tour. If you are interested in visiting Buckingham Palace, keep in mind that the palace serves as both the office and London residence of Her Majesty the Queen. Visitors are only allowed during specific times of the year - normally during the summer.

Your guide will be practical, punctual, reliable and thrive on the unexpected, welcoming individuals or groups, here on business or for pleasure. Your service can start at your selected time from any central London hotel or any of the major airport hotels. Maximum disposal time is 4 hours per day.

You can personalize your entire day with the assistance of your knowledgeable chauffeur whether its for a business trip to London, meetings, sightseeing or even a shopping day out. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, you can choose what you visit. See famous Big Ben, St Paul Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace.

Blue Badge Guides are often the only external guides permitted to conduct tours at many attractions, including Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London. the guide bring the sites to life, often telling the stories that are not in the guide books or audio tours. With your own knowledgeable and entertaining guide, you can ask questions and find out more about what interests you.

Make the best of your stay in London.

You will be picked up from your Southampton Cruise Terminal and taken directly to central London hotel or address.
Your chauffeur will arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time and will meet you with your name on a Board Sign inside the cruise terminal. the chauffeur will assist you with your luggages and then escort you to your Vehicle.
Sufficient time will be allowed for any traffic delay so you are always on time and never late.

When making a booking, you will need to provide your pickup time and address/hotel and the name of the cruise ship. Your transfer will be confirmed instantaneously. The price is for a Sedan, based on 2 adults with 2 big suitcases, 3 small suitcases.

You will be picked up from your Southampton Cruise Terminal and taken directly to the Heathrow airport. Your chauffeur will arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time and will meet you with your name on a board sign inside the cruise terminal. the chauffeur will assist you with your luggage and then escort you to your vehicle. Sufficient time will be allowed for any traffic delay so you are always on time and never late.

When making a booking, you will need to provide your pick-up and name of the cruise ship. The price is for a MPV, based on 4 adults with 4 big suitcases, 4 small suitcases.

You will be picked up from your central London hotel or address and be taken directly to the cruise terminal with no stress or fuss. Your chauffeur will arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time. Sufficient time will be allowed for any traffic delay so you are always on time and never late.

Provide your preferred pick up time when booking.

Passengers traveling to Southampton Seaport needs to have a plan handy, as it would be challenging to reach the Seaport on time especially if you are in the urge of boarding a ship and if your located in central London. Book a transfer which would always be your best traveling partner to reach the seaport on time and allows you to concentrate on nothing but your journey. You will be collected by a well trained driver who can easily handle any traffic congestion at ease.

Areas of Central London which would be covered are: W1, WC1, WC2, EC1, EC2 and EC3
When making a booking, you must provide the following information in the special requirements box:
Pickup Time
Name of cruise/ship
Hotel/Accommodation name and address

Vehicle Capacity Details:

Saloon Car – 4 Seater

Passengers: 4
Check-in Luggage: 2
Hand Luggage: 2

MPV Car – 5 Seater

Passengesr: 5
Check-in Luggage: 4
Hand Luggage: 3

8 Seater Car

Passengers: 8
Check-in Luggage: 8
Hand Luggage: 8

Private transportation is provided for you or your family from London Heathrow airport to anywhere in London. With a large fleet of vehicles ranging from saloon (4 passengers) to MPV Plus (8 passengers), all drivers are fully licensed and vetted by Transport for London. The vehicles are regularly serviced and maintained in high standard to provide a safe and comfort journey to all passengers. All the vehicles are fitted with GPS and tracked to ensure a smooth passenger transfer. Details of your driver will be provided prior to your travel.

Pricing includes meet and greets at the airport arrival lounge. Your driver will be holding a name-board with your given name and wait in the arrival lounge in front of following retailers:

London Heathrow Terminal 1 - Airport Information
London Heathrow Terminal 2 - Travelex Bureau de change
London Heathrow Terminal 3 - British Hotel reservation
London Heathrow Terminal 4 - Costa coffee
London Heathrow Terminal 5 - Costa coffee

All incoming flights will be monitored and your driver will be waiting at your terminal accordingly. Pricing includes 90 minutes of waiting from the time you flight lands however if any unexpected situation arises then the wait will be extended with additional parking cost only. All vehicles booked are for your private transportation only. Please see the list below for the maximum vehicle capacity:

Saloon - 4 Passengers, 2 Large Suitcases, 2 Small hand Luggages
MPV - 6 Passengers, 3 Large Suitcases, 3 Small Hand Luggages
MPV Plus - 8 Passengers, 6 Large Suitcases, 6 Small Hand Luggages

Please Note: Your driver may ask for your booking vouchers to identify the right passengers.

• Private transfers operate 24 hours, 7 days a week

Your driver will meet you at your terminal holding a sign with your party's name on it. Assisting you with your luggage, your driver will provide a leisurely drive to your destination at Dover Port. Your vehicle allows for a spacious environment for both you and your luggage. Service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, allowing for transportation at anytime. Sufficient time will be allotted to ensure your timely arrival aboard your cruise ship.

Note: When making a booking, you will need to advise your flight and port details.

Meet your private chauffeur accommodation/Hotel. They will be holding a sign with the lead traveler's name on it. The driver will then assist you with your luggage and load it into the awaiting vehicle, that is no more than 3 years old. Sufficient time will be allowed for any traffic delay so you are always on time and never late. Begin your smooth and comfortable transfer to the Dover Port as soon as you are situated in the vehicle.

Admire the England countryside as you cruise along the roads. Arrive at your destination, Dover Port in a timely manner. The driver will once more assist you with your luggage and bid you farewell as you board your cruise ship.

1. Private transfers operate 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Upon your arrival, a professional chauffeur will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall and holding a sign with the lead traveler's name printed on it. Proceed with a meet and greet by driver, who will ensure that you will receive the best customer care the entire way. The driver will be tracking your flight, so if your flight is delayed or set for an early arrival, they will make sure to be available for you. After meeting your driver, head to the private vehicle awaiting you outside.

Relax comfortably as the chauffeur loads your luggage into the trunk for you, ensuring you will not have to lift a finger. As you drive along London, admire the sights and views of the city, even perhaps picking out areas you look forward to exploring later into your vacation. Arrive at your accommodations in a timely manner and bid your driver farewell.

You will be provided with a chauffeur driven car service from central London to Southampton cruise port. The vehicles are 5 years or newer, clean, modern and fitted with the latest satellite Navigation system.  Your driver will come inside to collect you from the arrival hall displaying your name board. He/she will help you with your luggage and drive you to your destination by using latest navigation system with live traffic information.

Customers must choose pick up time wisely and provide all necessary details such as ship arrival time during booking process. 
Time may take between one hour to one hour and 30 minutes to reach arrival hall depending your cabin location.

This private transfer is available to drop passengers off or pickup from following post codes in central London area only:
Post code area : E1, WC1, WC2, EC1, EC2, EC3, EC4, SE1, W1, W2, W3, W5, W6, W7, W8, W9, W10, W11, W12, W13, W14, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, SW1, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7, NW1, NW2, NW3, NW4, NW5, NW6, NW7, NW8, NW9, NW10, NW11

You will be provided with a chauffeur driven car service from Heathrow Airport to Gatwick Airport. All flights will be monitored by the assigned driver and if there are any flight delays, there will be no extra charge. Your driver will come inside to collect you from the arrival hall displaying your name board. The driver will help you with your luggage and drive you to your destination by using latest navigation system with live traffic information.

Customers must choose pick up time wisely and provide all necessary details such as flight number, email address, mobile number with intentional dialing code during booking process. Business class passengers and hand luggage only passengers may request pick up time after 30 minutes of flight landing time and all other passengers may request their pick up time after 45 minutes from flight landing time.

Try avoid booking flights with short traveling time during morning and evening rush hours. Traveling between two airports may take up to 2 hours or more during rush hours.

You will be provided with a chauffeur driven car service from Heathrow Airport to Stansted Airport. All flights will be monitored by the assigned driver and if there are any flight delays, there will be no extra charge. Your driver will come inside to collect you from the arrival hall displaying your name board. The driver will help you with your luggage and drive you to your destination by using latest navigation system with live traffic information.

Customers must choose pick up time wisely and provide all necessary details such as flight number, email address, mobile number with international dialling code during booking process. Business class passengers and hand luggage only passengers may request pick up time after 30 minutes of flight landing time and all other passengers may request their pick up time after 45 minutes from flight landing time.

Try avoid booking flights with short traveling time during morning and evening rush hours. Traveling between two airports may take up to 2 hours or more during rush hours.

You will be provided with a chauffeur driven car service from Heathrow Airport to Luton Airport. All flights will be monitored by the assigned driver and if there are any flight delays, there will be no extra charge. Your driver will come inside to collect you from the arrival hall displaying your name board. The driver will help you with your luggage and drive you to your destination by using latest navigation system with live traffic information.

Customers must choose pick up time wisely and provide all necessary details such as flight number, email address, mobile number with international dialling code during booking process. Business class passengers and hand luggage only passengers may request pick up time after 30 minutes of flight landing time and all other passengers may request their pick up time after 45 minutes from flight landing time.

Try avoid booking flights with short traveling time during morning and evening rush hours. Traveling between two airports may take up to 2 hours or more during rush hours.

You will be provided with a chauffeur driven car service from Heathrow Airport to London City Airport. All flights will be monitored by the assigned driver and if there are any flight delays, there will be no extra charge. Your driver will come inside to collect you from the arrival hall displaying your name board. The driver will help you with your luggage and drive you to your destination by using latest navigation system with live traffic information.

Customers must choose pick up time wisely and provide all necessary details such as flight number, email address, mobile number with intentional dialing code during booking process. Business class passengers and hand luggage only passengers may request pick up time after 30 minutes of flight landing time and all other passengers may request their pick up time after 45 minutes from flight landing time.

Try avoid booking flights with short traveling time during morning and evening rush hours. Traveling between two airports may take up to 2 hours or more during rush hours.

You will be provided with a chauffeur driven car service from Heathrow Airport to Southampton cruise port. The vehicles are 5 years or newer, clean, modern and fitted with the latest satellite Navigation system.  Your driver will come inside to collect you from the arrival hall displaying your name board. He/she will help you with your luggage and drive you to your destination by using latest navigation system with live traffic information.

Customers must choose pick up time wisely and provide all necessary details such as ship arrival time during booking process. 
Time may take between one hour and 3 hours to reach arrival hall depending your cabin location.