Top 10 London Tours: Best Picks and Those to Skip

London is a remarkable city to visit! With its diverse neighbourhoods to explore, stunning palaces to discover, and bustling markets, it offers something for every visitor. However, with this abundance of options comes a dizzying array of tours available to experience while you’re in the city.

From castles to historical sites, markets to the finest West End performances, you will undoubtedly have an overwhelming selection.

Nevertheless, it is not always necessary to engage in a tour to see the best landmarks in the city. Remember, there are numerous free activities in London that will enrich any trip. These include renowned museums such as The British Museum, The Natural History Museum, as well as art galleries like the Tate Modern. Many of London’s iconic attractions are free to experience.

To assist you in optimizing your time, I would like to share some of the most exceptional tours in London that you should prioritize. This will allow you to focus solely on enjoying your visit without the burden of extensive research.

Wishing you a wonderful trip to London.

1.) Westminster Abbey Tour

It is undeniable that London is rife with historical buildings, with Westminster Abbey ranking among the most renowned sites in the city.

While you may not require a tour to enter, acquiring a Westminster Abbey ticket is necessary for entry. Like many locations in London, booking in advance is advisable as slots can quickly fill up.

If you are eager to learn more about Westminster Abbey’s rich history including important coronations, royal weddings, and funerals, consider participating in this guided tour. The experience offers insights into centuries of history.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to view the tombs of notable historical figures, from Charles Darwin to various members of the royal family.

2.) The Tower of London Tour

The Tower of London, one of London’s most iconic structures, has seen a tumultuous history as a royal palace, an execution site, a prison, and the home of the Crown Jewels—it has served multiple roles throughout history.

To gain entrance, these Tower of London and Crown Jewels tickets are recommended for a swift entry. It’s worth noting that a guided tour might not be necessary due to the plethora of information available within the Tower. Thus, independent exploration could be advantageous.

3. The Harry Potter Studios Tour

If you are a fan of Harry Potter, then a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is essential. Be sure to obtain your Harry Potter Studio tickets ahead of time to ensure a smooth visit.

This preparation ensures that all arrangements are in place when you arrive, as the venue can be quite busy during peak times.

Again, for the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour, there is no need for a guide, but the organized transfer is helpful since it is located outside Central London. This tour is among the best in London as it permits exploration at your own pace.

For directions, refer to this Google Maps link.

If you have already visited the studios, consider joining this entertaining Harry Potter walking tour, which is also a fantastic way to discover more of London.

4.) The London Eye

Perhaps the most iconic Ferris wheel in the world, the London Eye has been an integral part of the London skyline since the turn of the millennium.

Personally, a guided tour of the London Eye is unnecessary; however, obtaining tickets for standard or fast-track admission is advisable as it ensures prompt boarding. We consistently opt for the Fastrack London Eye tickets given the potential long queues during busy periods.

5.) London Food Tour

London is a culinary haven, with offerings tailored to every palate. This guided London food tour is an outstanding opportunity to indulge in exceptional local produce and dishes.

You will not only sample traditional ales and British ciders but also have the chance to savor delights like the scrumptious sticky toffee pudding.

6.) The British Museum Guided Tour

The British Museum ranks among the most distinguished in the world, showcasing artefacts from across the United Kingdom and beyond. It is a location you could spend days exploring due to its extensive collection.

The British Museum is free to enter, making it ideal for self-guided exploration. Nevertheless, if you seek a deeper understanding of the exhibits, consider participating in this excellent guided tour. You will witness key artefacts such as the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and numerous items from Egypt.

Additionally, the museum holds an extensive collection of history from mainland Europe and other global regions.

7.) The Street Art Tour

London is home to some of the most celebrated street artists globally, with numerous neighbourhoods showcasing their work.

A convenient method to view exemplary street art in London is by joining this alternative guided tour. You will be accompanied by a local guide and have the chance to visit areas such as Shoreditch and Brick Lane, which are exceptionally vibrant.

Ensure to reserve your spot on this street art tour ahead of time, as places can fill up quickly. This tour is an excellent opportunity to view works by artists such as Banksy, ROA, Invader, and Shepard Fairey, reflecting London’s vibrant art scene.

8.) Tower Bridge Tour

Tower Bridge is one of London’s, and perhaps the world’s, most famous bridges. Nevertheless, many visitors are unaware that you can also explore the interior of Tower Bridge.

Prior to your visit, it is advisable to acquire Tower Bridge tickets, which will allow access to the upper levels of the bridge. Furthermore, you’ll gain insight into the bridge’s mechanics and experience aspects that are not visible without a ticket.

9.) Riverboat Tour

One of our favorite leisurely activities in London is embarking on a serene boat tour along the Thames River. This is an excellent way to view the city in a tranquil and comforting manner.

However, it is advisable to reserve your guided boat tour ahead of time, as space may be limited during certain times of the day.

This tour is among the premier activities available in London, taking you from Westminster to the picturesque area of Greenwich. Upon arrival, be sure to check out the attractions in Greenwich that are not to be missed.

10.) Jack The Ripper Walking Tour