20 Major London Attractions – Guided Tour With Video and Photos

If you’re like us, trying to capture the essence of London without spending days on end, you’ll appreciate tours that pack a punch in a short time. The 20 Major London Attractions Guided Tour aims to do just that—covering everything from Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge in about three hours. It promises a whirlwind of sights, some insider secrets, and a fun little digital keepsake. While it sounds perfect for a quick glimpse of the city, there are some details worth knowing before you book.

What really caught our eye are the small group size—max 8 people—which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. Plus, the inclusion of a free video of your exploration is a neat touch that helps you relive the trip later. On the downside, since the tour doesn’t include inside visits of paid attractions, you’ll get a good view but not necessarily the full experience of each site. It’s best suited for those with limited time, first-timers eager to see the highlights, or travelers who prefer guided walking rather than navigating on their own.

This tour is a solid choice if you’re after an efficient way to see many of London’s most iconic landmarks without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s also worth considering if you enjoy small groups, as this creates a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere. However, if you’re after a deep dive into any one site or want to go inside the attractions, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Concise yet comprehensive: You’ll see over 20 landmarks, making it perfect for a quick overview of London’s highlights.
• Small group advantage: Max of 8 travelers, meaning more personalized interaction and less jostling.
• Includes a free video: Great for sharing your trip later or just reliving the moments.
• Primarily walking: Easy to follow, but expect to walk quite a bit, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Tour doesn’t include inside access: You see the sights from outside, which keeps things brisk but might miss some details.
• Good value: At around $67, it offers a lot of sightseeing for a reasonable price, especially considering the guided experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Green Park and Buckingham Palace

The tour begins at Green Park station, a peaceful green space amid London’s hustle. We loved the way it set a relaxed tone for the walk, with its expansive lawns and iconic Canada Gate. From there, your guide will lead you to Buckingham Palace, where you might catch the famous guard changing ceremony if your timing lines up (it’s every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10:45am). This is one of the few attractions that require no entry fee but offer a photo-worthy moment of royal pomp.

A lot of travelers, including one reviewer, appreciated the “serene escape” Green Park offers, especially in the middle of a busy city. This initial part of the tour feels like a gentle warm-up, setting the scene for what’s to come.

From Piccadilly Circus to Trafalgar Square

Next, you’ll pass through Piccadilly Circus, which is essentially London’s neon-lit postcard, perfect for photos with its giant billboards and lively crowds. It’s a quick stop but one that encapsulates London’s vibrant, energetic vibe. Then it’s a stroll through Trafalgar Square—home to Nelson’s Column and lion statues. This square is not just a landmark but a hub of activity and culture.

We found it interesting that the tour includes a visit to The National Gallery here, boasting masterpieces from da Vinci to Van Gogh. Admission is free, which is a great perk, giving you a chance to appreciate world-famous artwork without extra cost. If you’re an art lover, you’ll be glad to know the gallery offers a treasure trove of paintings to explore.

Passing by Whitehall and Westminster

Whitehall’s Horse Guards Parade and Downing Street are nearby, adding a touch of political history and architecture to the mix. Your guide will point out these sites as part of the narrative, giving context to London’s government hub. From there, you’ll make your way to Parliament Square, flanked by the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey—two of London’s most recognizable structures.

Here, the tour highlights the London Red Telephone booths, perfect for classic photos, and offers a quick view of Westminster Abbey—a Gothic masterpiece and the site of coronations for centuries. The Big Ben clock tower is also front and center, providing that quintessential London shot, especially for first-timers.

Views of the Thames and the City

Crossing Westminster Bridge, you’ll take in sweeping views of the River Thames, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben. The tour then continues along the South Bank, where the London Eye and Shakespeare’s Globe are visible. The walk over the Millennium Bridge is a highlight—it’s modern, sleek, and offers a photograph-friendly shot of the river and city.

We liked that the tour touches on London’s skyline from different vantage points—it’s a great way to get a sense of the city’s layout, especially from St. Paul’s Cathedral. From there, it’s a short walk to Borough Market, where the smell of fresh food and eclectic stalls make for a lively atmosphere, even if you don’t buy anything.

Ending at Tower Bridge and The Queen’s Walk

Finally, the tour wraps up at Tower Bridge, one of London’s most iconic landmarks. You get a good outside view of the bridge’s bascules and the nearby Tower of London—a site with centuries of history, though no inside visit is included. The Queen’s Walk along the river is the perfect final spot to soak in the city’s sights, street performers, and vibrant ambiance.

HMS Belfast, The Shard, and London’s tallest skyscraper are also along this route, offering stunning views and photo ops. The tour ends near London Bridge Station, making it convenient for onward travel.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer summed it up as “the quickest way to see and experience major highlights of London,” especially appreciated if your time is limited. However, not all feedback is glowing. There are honest reports of guides not showing up or being hard to reach, which underscores the importance of choosing reputable operators. Our source confirmed that the guide was present at the start point, and the small group size contributes to a more engaging experience.

A couple of travelers mentioned that since the tour doesn’t include inside visits, you might feel a bit rushed or miss the deeper stories behind each landmark. But overall, most reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views from various spots as major pluses.

The Value of This Tour

At around $67 per person, you’re paying for a guided overview of London’s top sights. It’s a cost-effective way to tick off many landmarks without wasting hours figuring out transportation or walking around aimlessly. The inclusion of a free video is a nice bonus, perfect for sharing or reminiscing.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a deep dive into any particular site. It’s a fast-paced overview meant to give you a flavor of London’s grandeur. If you’re someone who loves history, inside access, or more leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. But if your goal is to maximize sightseeing in a short window, it’s a solid pick.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-timers eager to get a broad overview of London’s most famous sights. It’s also perfect for travelers with limited time, or those who prefer guided walks over self-navigation. Smaller groups make it more personal, and the quick stops mean you can fit it into a busy day.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the various vantage points and scenic views will give you plenty of photo opportunities. Food lovers might find Borough Market tempting, but since food isn’t included, plan to explore the stalls on your own afterward.

Final Thoughts

The 20 Major London Attractions Guided Tour offers a well-organized, compact snapshot of London’s most recognizable landmarks. The small group size and included video make it a memorable experience, especially for those wanting a hassle-free way to see many sights in a limited time. While it doesn’t go inside the attractions, you’ll get outside views and context that make your photos and memories richer.

If you’re comfortable with walking, enjoy guided narratives, and want a quick yet rundown of London, this tour is worth considering. Just remember, it’s best suited for those who want to see the highlights without the inside tours, and who are okay with a brisk pace.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours, with most of that time spent walking between sites and brief stops. The actual sightseeing time at each stop is usually around 15 minutes.

Is this a walking-only tour?
Yes, it’s primarily a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

Are inside visits included?
No, the tour doesn’t include inside access to any paid attractions. You see the sights from outside, which keeps everything quick and manageable.

What’s included in the price?
You get an experienced guide, a walking route covering 20+ landmarks, and a free video of your exploration. The small group size (max 8) enhances the experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most travelers book about a month in advance—average booking is around 31 days ahead. It’s best to secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed for children, the walk is manageable for most ages, but consider your family’s stamina and interest levels.

What should I bring?
Bring a fully topped-up Oyster or contactless card for travel, a water bottle, and an umbrella (London’s weather is unpredictable).

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Green Park station and concludes near Tower Bridge, with easy access to public transportation for onward travel.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, well-guided overview of London with some memorable photo moments—this tour is a good bet. Just keep in mind it’s a quick snapshot, so if you want to go inside each site, consider supplementing this with additional visits later.