21 best London walking tours: London's top guided walks

Nearest Tube: Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee and Northern lines)
When: Daily: 8.30am, 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm and 4.30pm
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes

Explore the historic heart of London on a Welcome to London Guided Walking Tour from the South Bank to Westminster. Discover the city’s political and cultural significance with an expert guide as you spot famous landmarks including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye. Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour offers a memorable introduction to London’s must-see sights and riverside attractions in one easy walk.

Best for: First-time visitors, history and culture enthusiasts.
Good to know: We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and footwear – the tour includes plenty of walking.

Nearest Tube: St James’s Park (Circle and District)
When: Daily: 10am
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes

Get to know the royal family like never before on this Royal Walking Tour, Changing of the Guard. Led by an expert guide, you'll uncover fascinating tales of monarchs past and present while exploring London's royal landmarks, including St James's Palace, Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. Along the way, venture beyond the headline attractions to discover elegant streets, historic shops and hidden royal connections, from the Royal Warrant holders of Jermyn Street to lesser-known corners of the capital.

Best for: Royal enthusiasts, history lovers and anyone wanting to see famous royal landmarks.
Good to know: The Changing of the Guard takes place outside Buckingham Palace at 10.45am on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, and can be seen on tours running on those days. Please note that the ceremony may be cancelled at short notice due to adverse weather.

Nearest Tube: Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee)
When: Daily: 7pm and 9pm
Duration: 60-70 minutes

See London’s most iconic landmarks after dark on this guided Westminster by Night Walking Tour. As the city lights begin to twinkle, explore one of London’s most significant neighbourhoods and uncover stories of British history and politics. Led by an expert guide, stroll through Parliament Square and Whitehall, spot the famous gates of 10 Downing Street, and admire illuminated sights including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.

Best for: First-time visitors, photography enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the beauty of Westminster in the evening.
Good to know: This walking tour combines sightseeing and history at a relaxed pace, offering plenty of opportunities to stop for photos in Westminster along the way.

Nearest Tube: Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee)
When: Tue, Wed and Sat: 8.30am
Duration: Approximately 3 hours

The Westminster Walking Tour with Churchill War Rooms takes you through the heart of historic Westminster, passing world-famous landmarks including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and the London Eye. Then step beneath the streets into Churchill War Rooms, the secret bunker where Britain’s wartime leaders made history. Explore preserved corridors, the Cabinet Room and Churchill’s private quarters, and uncover the stories behind one of London’s most fascinating wartime sites.

Best for: History enthusiasts and anyone keen to explore London's political and wartime heritage.
Good to know: Your visit to Churchill War Rooms is self-guided, with an audio guide included to help bring the stories of the bunker to life.

Nearest Tube: Monument (Circle and District)
When: Daily: 11am
Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Discover the magic behind the movies on the Wizard Walk of London. Visit Harry Potter filming locations including Leadenhall Market and St Paul’s Cathedral’s Geometric Staircase, featured in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Along the way, take in some of London’s most iconic landmarks before ending at Borough Market, where you’ll find the location used for the memorable Knight Bus scene. Packed with fascinating stories and photo opportunities, this guided tour is perfect for fans looking to experience Harry Potter in London.

Best for: Harry Potter fans, first-time visitors looking to explore London in a fun and unique way.
Good to know: Don’t forget your camera, there are plenty of photo opportunities at filming locations and must-see landmarks along the route.

Nearest Tube: Soho & Mayfair tour: Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly), Marylebone & Abbey Road tour: Baker Street (Bakerloo, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee and Metropolitan)
When: Soho & Mayfair tour: Sun 11am, Marylebone & Abbey Road tour: Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun 10.30am and 2.30pm
Duration: 2 hours-2 hours 30 minutes

Follow in the footsteps of John, Paul, George and Ringo on two fascinating Beatles walking tours of London. Choose the Soho and Mayfair tour to explore hidden studios, album cover locations and the vibrant streets where the Fab Four worked and played. Or join the Marylebone and Abbey Road tour to discover famous filming, recording and performance sites, including Beatles homes, the place where Yesterday was written, and the world-famous Abbey Road crossing and studios.

Best for: Beatles fans, music lovers and those keen to uncover the stories behind some of London's renowned music landmarks.
Good to know: The Marylebone and Abbey Road tour includes a short bus ride from Baker Street to St John's Wood, so you'll need a contactless card, Oyster card or Zone 1 Travelcard. Read our review of the Beatles Walking Tour on the Visit London blog.

Nearest Tube: Paddington (Bakerloo, Circle, District, Elizabeth and Hammersmith & City)
When: Sat: 10.30am, also takes place on Tue during UK school holidays
Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Get the family together and follow in the footsteps of London’s most famous bear on a Paddington Bear Walking Tour. Discover recognisable locations from the beloved books and films, starting at Paddington Railway Station and the Paddington Bear statue. Along the way, hear fascinating stories about Paddington’s adventures, visit Mr Gruber’s antiques shop, explore colourful Portobello Market, browse Paddington memorabilia at the Paddington Shop and enjoy plenty of fun photo opportunities.

Best for: Fans of the Paddington books and films, families and young explorers.
Good to know: You'll need a contactless card, Oyster card or valid Zones 1-2 Travelcard for a short bus journey along the route. For more insider insight, read our review of the Paddington Bear Walking Tour on the Visit London Blog.

Nearest Tube: Tottenham Court Road (Central, Elizabeth and Northern)
When: West End Musical Tour: Sat and Sun 2.30pm, Drag Queen Disco Diva Tour: Fri 6.30pm and Sat 5.30pm
Duration: 2 hours

Sing, dance and experience London like never before on a Silent Disco Walking Tour. Choose from two fun-filled routes: the West End Musical Walking Tour, taking in Theatreland hotspots such as Leicester Square, Shaftesbury Avenue and Old Compton Street, or the Disco Diva Walking Tour through Soho and Chinatown. Pop on your silent disco headset and follow your energetic host for chart-topping tunes, interactive dance routines, quirky trivia, behind-the-scenes stories, and a digital photo and video souvenir. 

Best for: Musical theatre fans, disco lovers and anyone looking for a fun evening out in the capital.
Good to know: Tours are suitable for ages six and over, with the Disco Diva tour recommended for ages 12+. Tours run in all weather conditions, so we recommend dressing appropriately. Free ponchos are provided in heavy rain, and you'll be contacted about any changes or cancellations due to extreme weather.

Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly)
When: Sat: 10.30am and Wed Feb-Nov 10.30am
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Step into the world of the famous detective on a Sherlock Holmes Walking Tour. Follow in the footsteps of Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary sleuth as you visit landmarks, hidden streets and locations featured in the original stories, films and TV adaptations. Discover where Holmes and Watson first met, see the gentlemen’s clubs and grand hotels that inspired the tales, hear behind-the-scenes stories from your expert guide, and finish at the magnificent Somerset House.

Best for: Sherlock Holmes fans, literary lovers and budding detectives.
Good to know: Feel free to wear a deerstalker hat or Victorian-style outfit and step into the world of Sherlock Holmes. The tour ends at Somerset House, where we recommend exploring the latest exhibition.

Nearest Tube: Chalk Farm (Northern)
When: Sat: 2pm
Duration: 2 hours

Explore the beating heart of London’s music scene on a Rock ’n’ Roll Walking Tour of Camden. Weave through the area's vibrant streets and uncover its rich musical heritage, passing iconic venues including the Roundhouse, Electric Ballroom, Camden Assembly and Dingwalls. See the pub where Madness were discovered, the flat where Amy Winehouse lived, and Camden’s own Music Walk of Fame. Along the way, hear stories of legendary artists who helped shape one of London’s most influential music neighbourhoods.

Best for: Music lovers, rock ’n’ roll fans and visitors looking to explore London’s legendary music scene.
Good to know: We suggest allowing extra time before or after the tour to browse Camden Market's shops, food stalls and music memorabilia.

Nearest Tube: Notting Hill Gate (Central, Circle and District)
When: Sat: 10.30am
Duration: 2 hours

Discover the hidden gems of one of west London’s most charming neighbourhoods on a Notting Hill Walking Tour. Stroll past colourful townhouses, celebrity homes and famous film locations, including the Blue Door and the travel bookshop from Notting Hill. Along the way, hear stories of the area’s rich history, bohemian spirit and world-famous carnival. Finish at the bustling Portobello Road Market, where antiques, vintage finds and street food add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Best for: Fans of the Notting Hill film, culture lovers and those looking to discover west London’s hidden gems.
Good to know: The route is around 1.5 miles (2.4km) long and mostly flat, although some sections include uneven surfaces, different levels and cobbled streets. Comfortable footwear is recommended.

Nearest Tube: Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern)
When: Sat: 10.30am, also takes place on Thu during UK school holidays
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Uncover the world of Britain’s most famous secret agent on a James Bond Walking Tour. Stroll through Westminster as your expert guide reveals the secrets behind the iconic films and the real-life British intelligence services. See more than 10 filming locations across the capital, including a glimpse of the MI6 headquarters in Vauxhall, and snap photos at sites featured in Die Another Day, Skyfall, Spectre and No Time To Die.

Best for: 007 fans, film buffs and aspiring secret agents.
Good to know: The tour includes a short bus journey, so you'll need an Oyster card, contactless payment card or valid Travelcard before setting off.

Nearest Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District)
When: Daily: 3.30pm and 6pm
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes

Step back to 1888 and uncover one of London's most enduring mysteries on a Jack the Ripper Walking Tour. Join an expert guide through the atmospheric streets of Whitechapel and Spitalfields as you trace the story of history's most notorious unidentified killer. Visit key locations linked to the case, including Mitre Square, and hear the chilling tales, shocking discoveries and unanswered questions that continue to fascinate visitors more than a century later.

Best for: True crime enthusiasts, mystery lovers and those interested in London’s darker past.
Good to know: Due to discussions of historical crimes and graphic details, this tour is recommended for ages 12 and over. Under 16s may attend at their parents' discretion.

Nearest Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District)
When: Wed-Fri: 8pm
Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Uncover the darker side of the capital on the Ghastly Ghost Tour and hear spine-tingling tales of London’s haunted past. As night falls, follow your expert guide through the City’s historic streets, passing key landmarks including the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral. Along the way, discover chilling stories of treachery, murder, ghosts and restless spirits, and explore the eerie locations that have earned London its reputation as one of the world’s most haunted cities.

Best for: Ghost hunters, thrill seekers and fans of haunted history.
Good to know: This after-dark tour is recommended for ages 10 and over. During colder months, we recommend wrapping up warm as you explore the historic streets of the City of London.

Nearest Tube: London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern)
When: Daily: 10.30am, 11am and 3pm
Duration: Approximately 3 hours

Discover the very best of British cuisine on a Borough Market Food Tour. Join a local guide to explore one of London’s most famous food destinations, soaking up the market’s vibrant atmosphere while sampling classic favourites. Feast on a bacon and egg bap, award-winning fish and chips, a traditional sausage roll, British cheeses paired with ale or cider, and a classic dessert with English tea. As you make your way through the market, uncover the history of Borough Market and its surrounding streets.

Best for: First-time visitors, food lovers and those looking to explore London's food scene.
Good to know: The tour is family-friendly, although Borough Market can get busy, so families with young children may want to plan accordingly. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, just let your guide know on arrival or contact the organisers in advance.

Nearest Tube: Varies by tour
When: Tue-Sat: 11am-5pm
Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours

Embark on a food-filled adventure across London with Gourmaze, an immersive treasure hunt that combines sightseeing, puzzles and delicious dishes. Guided by clues sent to your phone, explore hidden corners of the city, solve riddles and unlock handpicked food stops. Choose from adventures featuring British pub classics, Asian street food, tacos or sweet treats, while discovering neighbourhoods including Bankside, Soho, Shoreditch and Covent Garden in a fun new way.

Best for: Foodies, puzzle lovers and visitors looking to explore London differently.
Good to know: You'll need at least one smartphone per team with WhatsApp and mobile data, as all clues, riddles and game updates are delivered directly to your phone throughout the experience.

Nearest Tube: Aldgate East (Circle, District and Hammersmith & City)
When: Daily: 7pm
Duration: Approximately 3 hours

Set your taste buds tingling on the Brick Lane Indian Food Tour as you explore one of London’s most vibrant food neighbourhoods. Navigate Brick Lane’s bustling streets with an expert guide, discovering the history of Indian cuisine and its influence on London’s food culture. Sample a range of authentic dishes from across the Indian subcontinent, including curries, pakoras, dhokras, tandoori favourites and traditional sweets, while uncovering the stories behind the area's rich culinary heritage.

Best for: Foodies, cultural explorers and lovers of authentic Indian cuisine.
Good to know: We recommend arriving early or staying afterwards to explore Brick Lane's street art, independent shops and nearby Spitalfields.

Nearest Tube: Temple (Circle and District)
When: Daily: 1.30pm
Duration: 90 minutes

Explore the sights, stories and showbiz history of London's vibrant West End on a Theatreland Walking Tour. Wander through Covent Garden and the Strand, taking in the world-famous market, buzzing eateries and some of the capital's most iconic theatres, including Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Along the way, hear tales of kings, ghosts, writers and celebrated performers, discover the area's fascinating history, and experience the atmosphere of London's famous theatre district.

Best for: First-time visitors, theatre lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Good to know: The tour is a great introduction to the area, leaving you with plenty of ideas for where to eat, drink and catch a West End show afterwards.

Nearest Tube: Varies by tour
When: Wed-Sun: Times vary
Duration: 75-90 minutes

Go behind the scenes of London's Underground network on a Hidden London tour and uncover the secret spaces beneath the city streets. Led by expert guides, these exclusive tours take you through disused stations, forgotten tunnels and Second World War shelters, revealing the stories behind London's transport history. From Euston to Clapham South, explore fascinating locations usually closed to the public and discover a hidden side of the capital few people get to see.

Best for: Transport enthusiasts, history buffs and curious minds keen to explore hidden underground spaces.
Good to know: Some parts of the tour may be unsuitable for those with claustrophobia and may have low lighting. As surfaces can be uneven, flat, sturdy footwear is required throughout the tour.

Nearest Tube: Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Elizabeth, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan)
When: Sat and Sun: 10am
Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes

Discover the ever-changing world of east London's street art on a Shoreditch Street Art Walking Tour. Explore the colourful streets of Shoreditch and Brick Lane as a specialist guide reveals the stories, techniques and inspirations behind striking murals and hidden artworks. See pieces by renowned artists including Banksy, Eine, D*Face, Sweet Toof, Pure Evil, Swoon and Blek Le Rat, while uncovering one of London's most vibrant and creative neighbourhoods.

Best for: Street art enthusiasts, art lovers and creative explorers.
Good to know: Make sure to bring your camera, as you'll see some of east London's most colourful murals and creative street art. You'll receive a post-tour email with more information about the artists featured on the day.

Nearest Tube: South Kensington (Circle, District and Piccadilly)
When: Daily: 11am
Duration: 2 hours

Travel through 4.5 billion years of history on a guided tour of the Natural History Museum. Led by an expert guide, explore fascinating galleries filled with dinosaurs, mammals and geological wonders, from Sophie the Stegosaurus and the dodo skeleton to the spectacular blue whale suspended in Hintze Hall. Discover 80 million specimens, uncover the story of Earth's evolution, and gain a deeper appreciation of the natural world as you journey through one of London's most iconic museums.

Best for: First-time museum visitors, dinosaur lovers and science enthusiasts.
Good to know: The experience is recommended for ages 11 and over. We recommend allowing extra time after the tour to revisit your favourite galleries or explore temporary exhibitions.