London Taxi 50+ Sights Tour & Kensington Palace Entry

If you’re looking for a way to see London’s most iconic sights without the rush of large crowds or the hassle of navigating public transport, a private black cab tour could be just what you need. This particular experience promises a personalized journey through the heart of the city, with the chance to see over 50 landmarks from the comfort of a vintage London cab—and to top it all off, visit Kensington Palace, the royal residence of Prince William and family.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its intimate size (up to 6 people) ensures a more relaxed and tailored experience, and second, the guide is a real London cabbie, which means you’re getting local insights from someone who knows the city inside out. A third great point is the inclusion of Kensington Palace, offering a royal touch that many tours skip.

Of course, no experience is perfect. The price of around $321 per person might seem steep for some, especially if you’re traveling alone or as a couple. Plus, six hours can be a long day if you’re not used to such jam-packed sightseeing. But overall, this tour could be especially suitable for those who want an efficient, comfortable, and informative way to tick off many of London’s top sights in a single go—particularly if you’re a history buff or a first-time visitor eager to get a broad overview.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (max 6) ensures a more intimate, tailored tour.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: Up to 50 landmarks in 2.5 hours, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Tower of London.
• Expert Guide: A local cabbie adds genuine insights and fun storytelling.
• Royal Connection: Includes a visit to Kensington Palace, home to the Royals.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private pickup from central London and a relaxed pace.
• Value for Money: Offers a lot of sights in a single tour, but price may be a consideration for budget travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

Picture this: you’re comfortably seated in a vintage black cab, the windows open or closed depending on the weather, and your driver-guide is chatting away about London’s history, quirks, and legends. This isn’t a scripted bus tour; it’s a personal journey where your driver caters the experience based on your interests, stopping at key spots for photos or quick walks.

Starting Point & Pickup: Your tour begins near Temple Station, a convenient central spot that’s accessible from many parts of London. If you select the private tour option, your driver will pick you up directly from your hotel, which is a real bonus for hassle-free start.

Length & Pace: The 2.5-hour taxi ride is just enough to cover many of London’s highlights without feeling rushed. You’ll see landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square—all from the comfort of your cozy cab. Along the way, the driver shares stories and facts, making the sightseeing feel more like a friendly local giving you a tour rather than a scripted commentary.

Photo Stops & Sightseeing: Some landmarks are best appreciated with a quick photo, and your driver will likely accommodate this. Notable stops include HMS Belfast, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. While you won’t go inside most of these sites during the taxi tour, you’ll get enough context and visuals to appreciate their significance.

Kensington Palace Visit: After the city tour, you’ll head to Kensington Palace. The ticket to explore the Palace is included, and you’ll have around two hours to stroll through the historic rooms, gardens, and exhibits. This royal residence is a highlight for many visitors interested in British royalty and history.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

This tour packs many of London’s top sights into a single half-day experience. Here’s what you can expect to see and do:

• Cleopatra’s Needle: An Egyptian obelisk on the Victoria Embankment, a quick photo opportunity and a piece of history dating back over 3,000 years.
• Big Ben & Parliament Square: Iconic clock tower and political heart of London. Your driver might tell you stories behind the buildings here.
• Westminster Abbey: A prime photo stop and a chance to marvel at its medieval architecture and royal connections.
• Buckingham Palace: The Queen’s official residence, where you can catch the Changing of the Guard if timing aligns.
• Piccadilly Circus & Trafalgar Square: The lively heart of London’s West End with giant screens, fountains, and historic statues.
• Whitehall & The London Eye: Parliament’s government hub and the giant Ferris wheel offering spectacular views, which you’ll see from afar.
• St Paul’s Cathedral: The majestic dome is an impressive sight, and your driver might share interesting facts.
• HMS Belfast & Tower Bridge: Two of London’s most recognizable structures with rich histories. Your driver will stop for photos.
• Tower of London: A quick stop for photos and history, home to the Crown Jewels and stories of royal intrigue.
• Westminster & Kensington: The tour concludes with the royal residence visit, providing a regal finish to your day.

This itinerary balances the need to see many sights without feeling overwhelming. Plus, the driver’s commentary brings each place to life, making even a short stop meaningful.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views they get from the cab. One reviewer mentioned, “Our driver was full of fun stories and made the tour feel like exploring with a friend.” Others highlight the convenience of hotel pickup and the chance to see so much in a short time.

Some found the price on the higher side but felt it was justified given the convenience, private setting, and the inclusion of Kensington Palace. A few pointed out that the tour is quite packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you might want to consider longer or separate tours.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

For around $321, you’re paying for a well-organized, private experience that covers much of central London’s highlights in one go. If you’re short on time, this is a practical way to get a rundown, especially because it combines sightseeing with a royal visit.

However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or want to spend more time inside individual sites, this might feel a bit rushed. The price also reflects the exclusivity of a private tour and the personalized attention from your cabbie guide.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of London’s top sights without the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s also suited for those who prefer comfort and a personal touch over large group tours.

Travelers interested in British royalty will appreciate the Kensington Palace visit, and others who enjoy storytelling and local insights will find this a real treat.

If you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple, you’ll find the intimacy and flexibility very appealing. Just keep in mind the tour’s length and price — it’s a good value if you want a thorough, personalized day out.

FAQ

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, if you book the private tour, your driver will pick you up from most locations within central London. Just provide your preferred address at checkout.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The taxis can accommodate some mobility aids, but it’s best to contact the provider beforehand to confirm specific requirements.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring water or snacks, especially if you plan a long day.

How long is the Kensington Palace visit?
You’ll have about two hours to explore Kensington Palace after the taxi tour.

Does the tour operate in multiple languages?
The tour is offered in English, with a live guide sharing stories and facts.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it doesn’t specifically mention family or children’s activities. It’s mostly sightseeing and storytelling, so consider the interests and stamina of younger kids.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private London taxi tour offers a practical and engaging way to see many of the city’s highlights in one go. The combination of personalized service, stunning views, and the chance to visit Kensington Palace makes it particularly attractive for first-timers or anyone eager to get a good sense of London’s core attractions without the stress of planning every detail.

While the price might be a barrier for some, the overall experience—especially with a knowledgeable local guiding you—can be well worth it. If you’re craving a relaxed, customized sightseeing day and love the idea of exploring in style, this tour could turn out to be a highlight of your London trip.

Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and prepare for an immersive day in one of the world’s most fascinating cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: