Rich people behaving badly

If you’re after a tour that peels back the curtain on London’s more scandalous side—focusing on the antics, greed, and vanity of the city’s upper classes—then Rich People Behaving Badly might be just what you’re looking for. This private walking experience promises more than just the usual sights, offering stories of royals and aristocrats that you won’t find in standard guides.

What everyone raves about most is the guide’s ability to combine humor with historical facts, making it a fun yet educational way to spend a couple of hours. Another highlight is the intimate nature of a private tour — no crowds, just your group and a guide giving you full attention.

However, a possible consideration is the focus on scandal and the elite, which might not appeal if you’re interested in broad history or more traditional sightseeing. Still, if you enjoy stories about the naughty side of London’s past, this tour will keep you entertained.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who want a unique perspective on London’s history, beyond the usual landmarks. It’s perfect for those who love gossip, royal stories, or just a different way to explore the city’s streets.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with undivided attention from your guide
• Focus on scandal, greed, and vanity of London’s elites—think royal antics and hidden stories
• Accessible and affordable at around $41 for two hours of fun and learning
• Walks through lesser-known streets and landmarks off the main tourist trail
• Great reviews for guides’ knowledge and wit—many say it’s both fun and educational
• Ideal for those interested in a different side of London, especially if you love gossip and history

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is an excellent choice if you’re curious about the less glamorous, more provocative side of London’s history. It’s designed as a private experience, which means your group gets the full attention of the guide — a real plus for those who prefer a more tailored storytelling approach.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at the Royal Academy of Arts
Here, you won’t just admire beautiful paintings—you’ll hear about the lascivious stories of the upper classes and how some used their wealth for self-indulgence. The guide notes that while some have used their money for good causes, none of those are the focus here. Expect tales of lust, greed, and vanity, setting the tone for the tour. Visitors have appreciated how the stories are infused with wit, making history lively and sometimes hilarious (one reviewer called it a “fun and informative” experience).

Visit Burlington Arcade
London’s first shopping mall, but more than that, a symbol of high-end shopping and luxury. It’s a perfect place to reflect on how wealth and morality might clash when money is no object. The arcade’s grandeur helps set the scene for the stories to come, and since it’s so close to other historic sites, it’s a quick but impactful stop.

Sotheby’s Auction House & Nell Gwyn’s Neighborhood
Walking past one of the world’s most famous auction houses, you’ll hear about scandals that unfolded here over the years. The guide tells stories about Nell Gwyn, one of Charles II’s most famous mistresses, highlighting her ambition and shrewdness. Reviewers find her story both amusing and thought-provoking—was she a symbol of cleverness or morals?

Historic Love Games and Royal Scandals
Next, you’ll visit a place linked to King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, where love and betrayal played out publicly centuries ago. It’s a reminder of how scandal has long colored the city’s history, with each era adding its own layers of intrigue.

St. James’s Park
Charles I’s walk to his execution is a somber, powerful story that many find moving. The guide smoothly connects these moments to broader themes of power, sacrifice, and human flaws. Visitors often mention that learning about these events in a park where history unfolded makes the stories more tangible.

Old Queen Street & Royal Gossip
The final stop takes you into the world of Queen Anne, recently portrayed in pop culture, and her famously tumultuous reign. The stories here touch on human nature—desire, ambition, and rivalry—adding a playful yet insightful dimension to the tour.

The Experience: What’s It Like?

Walking through London with a guide offers the advantage of exploring hidden alleys, streets, and small landmarks that bigger bus tours usually ignore. Many reviews mention how the experience feels like a friendly chat rather than a formal lecture, making history accessible and engaging.

The guide’s wit and storytelling are often praised. Several reviewers note that Terry, the guide, is “friendly, engaging, and very funny,” making the two hours fly by. People appreciate that he adds colorful stories about royals and aristocrats—not just dry facts but tales packed with humor and intrigue.

The Practical Side

At around $41 per person, this tour offers good value for money considering its private format and the depth of stories. It runs for about two hours, which is enough time to cover significant stories without losing attention. The tour is mainly outdoors, so good weather is key—rain might make walking less pleasant, though the tour provider does offer rescheduling or refunds if canceled due to bad weather.

Accessibility is good, with most travelers able to participate, and service animals are allowed. The meeting point near Parliament Square and Westminster Tube Station makes it convenient for most London visitors.

How Does It Compare to Other Tours?

Many reviews highlight that this is a standout experience compared to typical sightseeing. It’s especially appealing if you’ve already seen the main landmarks and want a more intimate and quirky story of London. The focus on scandal and the upper classes makes it different from typical history walks or bus tours.

Reviewers mention that it’s perfect for those who enjoy stories about royal misbehavior, aristocratic greed, or just want a fun, engaging way to learn about London’s past. The private setting means fewer crowds and more tailored stories, often making the experience more memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history buffs who appreciate the human side of London’s past, especially if you’re interested in royal gossip and scandal. It also suits those looking for a personalized, relaxed experience without the hustle of big group tours. If you’re a fan of witty storytelling and want to explore some off-the-beaten-path streets while learning about London’s sometimes sordid past, you’ll find this tour a gem.

While not specifically aimed at families or children, adults and older teens who enjoy lively stories will get the most out of it. It’s a perfect way to add some spice to your London trip, especially if you’re tired of the usual tourist spots.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving a different perspective on London, especially one that’s packed with juicy gossip and scandal, this private tour offers a fantastic balance of entertainment and insight. The knowledgeable guide and engaging stories make it a highlight for many, and the small-group format keeps things personal and flexible.

The price is reasonable for the quality of storytelling and the intimate nature of the experience. It’s particularly suited for those who love history with a humorous twist or are curious about the less-polished, more human stories of London’s aristocratic elite.

If you’re after a fun, lively, and informative experience that takes you through the city’s secretive and scandalous corners, this tour will definitely leave you feeling like you’ve uncovered some of London’s best-kept secrets.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically aimed at families, most travelers of teenage age and above seem to enjoy the stories, especially if they’re interested in royal scandals. Younger children might find some stories less engaging or too detailed.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a perfect short activity to fit into an afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
You get a private walking tour with a knowledgeable guide. The price of around $41.41 per person covers the guide’s time and storytelling, with no additional entrance fees for the stops listed.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Since the tour is outdoors, good weather is recommended. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 5A Burlington Gardens and finishes near Queen Elizabeth II Centre near Westminster.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice may result in no refund.

This tour makes for a memorable, often hilarious journey into London’s more scandalous past. It’s perfect for those wanting a personal, story-rich experience that’s different from the usual sightseeing fare. If you’re into royal gossip, aristocratic antics, and hidden city corners, this is one adventure that’s worth considering.