London: South Bank Walking Tour & Enter The Tower of London

Exploring London with the South Bank & Tower of London Tour

If you’re planning a trip to London and want a well-rounded experience that combines iconic sights with a touch of history, this tour might just be what you’re after. It promises to take you over 15 of London’s most famous landmarks along the lively South Bank and then escort you inside the historic Tower of London — complete with Crown Jewels and a Beefeater-led tour. From what we’ve gathered, this tour offers a compelling mix of sightseeing, history, and some of the best views the city has to offer.

What we really like about this experience is how it packs so much into just four hours. First, you’ll get a guided walk through the buzzing South Bank area, with insights into London’s past and present. Then, the ticket to the Tower of London, combined with the option to join a Beefeater-led tour, provides a deeper dive into the city’s medieval roots. However, a potential consideration is the pace — a lot is packed into a short span, so it requires moving briskly and wearing comfortable shoes. This tour suits those who enjoy a structured but flexible approach to sightseeing and are okay with a busy schedule.

Whether you’re a history buff, a first-time visitor, or someone who loves city views and stories, this combination tour offers a practical way to see a lot without the hassle of planning each stop independently. It’s especially appealing if you’d like an overview of London’s most recognizable sights, with the added value of inside access to the Tower of London.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience with over 15 landmark visits in just 4 hours
• Expert guides share entertaining facts and stories about London
• Exclusive entry to the Tower of London, including Crown Jewels and White Tower
• Optional Beefeater tour included at no extra cost
• Great views of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Square Mile, and iconic bridges
• Accessible and flexible, with cancellation options and wheelchair access

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and the South Bank Walk

The adventure begins outside Southwark Underground Station, a prime and easy-to-find meeting point. From there, your guide leads you along the lively South Bank, a stretch packed with cultural landmarks, eateries, and stunning river views. This initial part of the tour is a relaxed walk, but don’t mistake relaxed for slow — you’ll cover a lot of ground in about two hours.

Highlights of the South Bank

During the walk, you’ll see London Bridge and Tower Bridge, two of the most recognizable structures in London. The guides are known for sharing interesting tidbits and amusing stories about these sights, so keep your ears open. You’ll also catch glimpses of The Clink Prison, The Shard, and The Globe Theatre — all landmarks that tell different parts of London’s story.

A standout moment is enjoying a panoramic view of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the surrounding Square Mile, which looks especially striking from certain viewpoints. The guides emphasize fun facts, making the walk engaging whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned London enthusiast.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Tower of London Experience

After the walk, it’s time to step inside one of London’s most historic sites. Your included ticket grants access to the Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels, White Tower, and other fascinating exhibits. The White Tower itself is a marvel — nearly 1,000 years old and filled with medieval armor and artifacts.

One of the tour’s real perks is the chance to join a Beefeater-led tour, which starts every half hour. These guides are full of captivating stories and ensure you get a vivid picture of the Tower’s dark and glorious history. Many reviews highlight the Beefeater guides as a highlight, praising their friendly, humorous, and informative storytelling.

Timing and Group Dynamics

The entire experience lasts about four hours, including the walk and the Tower visit. The group size tends to be manageable, and the guide keeps things lively and informative. To make the most of the tour, arriving 10 minutes early is advised — lateness means missing out, and refunds aren’t available for late arrivals.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value, especially considering it covers both sightseeing and entry to the Tower of London. Included in the price are a fun local guide, the walking tour of South Bank, your entrance ticket, and the option to join a Beefeater tour at no extra charge.

However, you’ll need to cover your own expenses for food, drinks, and transportation. The tour recommends bringing some snacks and a drink, as there’s no food included. Also, there’s a small additional cost (~£5) for an underground journey, which you should be prepared for if you plan to use public transport.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking and standing for a good chunk of time.
• Bring an umbrella or raincoat, just in case the weather turns.
• Pack some snacks and water to keep energized during the walk.
• Have your contactless payment card ready for the underground journey.
• Arrive a few minutes early to meet your guide and settle in.

The Value of This Tour

At roughly $132 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines outdoor sightseeing with inside access to a top historic site. The guided walk is designed to give you a sense of London’s layered history, and the Tower visit deepens that understanding with its impressive collection of artifacts and stories.

Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, praising their storytelling and interesting facts that bring London’s history to life. The stunning views of iconic landmarks from the walking route add visual excitement, making this a memorable way to experience the city.

While it’s a busy schedule, the tour’s structure is flexible enough to suit those who enjoy a brisk pace and want to maximize their time. The inclusion of the Beefeater-led tour is a notable bonus, providing a fun, authentic insight into the Tower’s history that many solo visitors might miss.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see a wide spread of London’s top sights in a relatively short time. If you love stories and engaging guides, you’ll enjoy the lively commentary. It also works well for those interested in history, architecture, and panoramic city views.

Given the walking component and timing, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable moving at a brisk pace and wearing comfortable shoes. Since no food or drinks are included, it’s better for those who don’t mind bringing their own snacks. It’s a flexible, accessible option for most, including wheelchair users.

FAQs

How long is the walking tour?
The guided walk lasts about two hours, covering key sights along the South Bank.

Do I need to pay extra for the Beefeater tour?
No, joining the Beefeater-led tour at the Tower of London is included in your ticket and starts every half hour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, an umbrella, snacks, and a contactless card for the underground journey.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly geared towards kids, the storytelling style and sights are engaging for most ages. Just ensure children can handle the walking pace.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for those with mobility needs.

Final Thoughts

This combined South Bank and Tower of London experience offers a practical and engaging way to see the heart of London. It balances outdoor exploration with inside access, guided by passionate, knowledgeable guides who add personality and insight to each stop. If you’re looking for a structured, well-organized way to cover many iconic sights in a short time, this tour delivers.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling and stunning city vistas without spending hours on logistics. While it’s a busy schedule, the inclusion of the Tower’s highlights and the optional Beefeater tour makes it a solid choice for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike.

For those wanting a compact, informative, and lively introduction to London’s crown jewels, bridges, and neighborhoods, this tour could become one of your favorite memories of the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: