London: Cheese Tasting Walking Tour

If you’ve ever wondered whether a cheese-focused tour in London is worth your time, this review aims to give you a clear picture. The London: Cheese Tasting Walking Tour offers an engaging way to explore some of the city’s most renowned cheese shops and delis, all while satisfying your curiosity and appetite for dairy delights. While it’s not a full-blown culinary extravaganza, it’s a cozy, well-curated experience perfect for those who want to combine a bit of sightseeing with some seriously good tasting.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to visit prestigious artisan cheesemakers that are connected to the royal family — yes, Queen Elizabeth used to shop here, and now King Charles does too. Plus, the personalized small-group setting (max 10 people) means you’ll get more attention from your guide, making the experience feel intimate and relaxed. On the flip side, a potential downside is that it’s roughly two hours long, so if you’re a big eater or want a comprehensive tasting journey, you might find it brief. Still, it’s ideal for those interested in the stories behind the cheeses and who enjoy tasting in a laid-back setting.

This tour suits a wide range of travelers — whether you’re a casual foodie, a couple looking for a fun activity, or someone interested in London’s culinary scene without the fuss of a big class or tour. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who loves cheese, or even if you’re solo and want a small, friendly group, this could be a highlight of your London trip.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants, making it more personalized.
• Expert-Led: Guided by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into cheeses and pairings.
• Variety of Cheeses: Tastes include British, French, and Italian options, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Historical Connection: Visits include shops linked to the royal family, adding a special touch.
• Includes Water and Samples: Quench your thirst and enjoy multiple cheese tastings.
• Price & Duration: At just over $74, it offers a focused 2-hour experience that’s easy to fit into sightseeing plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Cheese Tasting Tour

Thinking about booking a cheese tour can sometimes feel like stepping into a marketing trap. But looking at what this tour offers, it’s clear that it’s a straightforward, thoughtful experience designed to give cheese lovers a taste of London’s artisanal side. You’ll visit some of London’s most prestigious cheese shops and delis, each with their own history and specialties, making the tasting more meaningful than just munching on cheese from a supermarket.

The Itinerary — What’s Included?

The tour kicks off outside Green Park tube station, an easy central starting point. From there, your guide will lead you through four key stops across Mayfair and Soho, each with their own cheese sampling. The stops are spaced out so you can walk and chat, with plenty of time to enjoy the cheeses and listen to your guide’s stories.

Stop 1: The Royal Cheesemonger in Mayfair

This shop is where Queen Elizabeth used to buy her cheeses, which adds a regal touch to the experience. Here, you’ll sample a couple of finest English cheeses and learn about the shop’s history and what makes their selection special. According to reviews, guides are very knowledgeable, sharing interesting tidbits like the royal connection and the nuances of British cheeses.

Stops 2 & 3: French and Italian Delicatessens

Next, you’ll cross into F&M, famous for its delicious French cheeses, which are highly praised in reviews. Expect to try a fine French cheese and learn about how it’s made and paired. Then, in the Italian delicatessen, you’ll taste their “drunken cheese”, which gets rave reviews — a cheese soaked in wine or spirits for added flavor.

Final Stop: British Cheeses near Covent Garden

The last tasting takes place at a dairy shop near Covent Garden, where you’ll sample a few British cheeses, rounding out the global flavor profile. Travelers often appreciate the variety, especially the chance to compare British cheeses directly with French and Italian options.

What You’ll Learn

The guide doesn’t just serve cheese; they teach about pairing cheese and wine, which guests find helpful and enjoyable. You’ll also get tips on how to recognize quality cheese and understand its flavors better. The included bottle of water helps cleanse the palate between tastings, keeping your senses sharp.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience both educational and fun. You might even get a few cheesy jokes thrown in — literally. The intimate group size enhances the experience, allowing for questions and casual conversation.

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The Practicalities

The cost of $74.08 is quite reasonable for a guided experience that combines tasting, education, and a little sightseeing. It lasts about 2 hours, which is manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule. The meeting point outside Green Park tube station is straightforward, though it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or any additional purchases, so plan accordingly.

What Are the Downsides?

While the experience is charming and well-curated, it’s not overly extensive. If you’re a dedicated cheese aficionado, you might want more tastings or a longer tour. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or those with food allergies, lactose intolerance, or mobility issues. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive culinary experience or a full-day event, this might feel a little brief.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cheese tasting walk is best suited for adults, foodies, or anyone curious about London’s artisan cheese scene. It’s an excellent choice if you prefer intimate groups, value knowledgeable guides, and want a relaxed walk rather than a high-energy tour. It’s also perfect for those wanting to learn about British cheeses and their international counterparts without the fuss of a formal class.

If you’re traveling with friends who love cheese or are seeking a fun, casual activity that also offers some cultural insights, this tour ticks the box. But if you’re chasing a deep dive into cheese making or need accommodations for dietary restrictions, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The London: Cheese Tasting Walking Tour hits a sweet spot for those who enjoy cheese and want to experience London’s artisan scene firsthand. The combination of historical shops, expert guides, and diverse tastings makes it a memorable activity that’s more about quality and storytelling than quantity.

While it’s not a comprehensive culinary immersion, it offers a relaxed, approachable way to explore local and international cheeses, all within a two-hour window. The small group size and the focus on educational insights make it a rewarding experience for curious travelers who appreciate tasting and learning in equal measure.

If you’re looking for a fun, casual way to spend a couple of hours in London without overloading your schedule, this tour could be a delightful highlight. Just remember to come hungry, wear comfortable shoes, and be ready to enjoy some cheesy jokes along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for kids?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12, mainly because of the tasting focus and the nature of the experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, you meet at Green Park outside the tube station, and the tour involves walking between stops.

What’s included in the price?
You get a guided tour, cheese samples at each stop, a small bottle of water, and the chance to learn about pairing cheeses and wine.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people with food allergies, lactose intolerance, or nut allergies.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it easy to slot into a busy sightseeing day.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot online. You can also cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, which adds flexibility if plans change.

Overall, if you’re a cheese lover or just curious about London’s artisan food scene, this tour offers a friendly, flavorful, and educational experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: