London is a city that excels at offering diverse and memorable lunch experiences. Whether you’re craving a traditional pub meal, a scenic river cruise, or a lively rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere, London has something to satisfy every palate and preference. We’re particularly fond of the From London: Full-day Cotswolds Tour with Optional Lunch, which combines picturesque villages, charming countryside, and a hearty 2-course meal in a historic coach inn. It’s a great way to escape the city for a day and enjoy authentic English cuisine amidst stunning scenery.
Other standout options include the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, either on Piccadilly Circus or in Piccadilly itself, where you can indulge in American classics surrounded by rock memorabilia. For a more active, London-centric experience, the River Thames Bike Tour and Borough Market Lunch Stop offers a lively blend of sightseeing and gourmet food. Whether you prefer a scenic day trip, a lively pub, or a river cruise, the list below covers a broad range of excellent lunch experiences.
This list features a variety of tours: scenic countryside trips, city sightseeing with lunch, river cruises with dining, and private guided tours. Each offers a unique way to enjoy London’s multifaceted culture and flavors. Now, let’s take a closer look at each one.
1. From London: Full-day Cotswolds Tour with Optional Lunch
Discover the picturesque villages of Burford, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold on this full-day tour into the enchanting Cotswolds. The highlight is the mouth-watering 2-course lunch at the Swan Hotel, a cozy, historic coach inn that perfectly captures the region’s charm. The tour includes a scenic drive through rolling countryside, stopping in Bibury — often called the most beautiful village in the Cotswolds — and a guided walk through Stow-on-the-Wold.
Guests praise the day despite unpredictable weather, noting the well-organized itinerary, excellent stops, and engaging guides. The 2-hour coach ride lets you relax and soak in lush scenery, while the visits offer plenty of photo opportunities, like the small tea house in Burford. For around $152, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of the countryside with a delicious meal included. It’s perfect for those wanting a full day of sightseeing with a hearty, traditional lunch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for countryside lovers who want to combine scenic villages with good food and a guided experience. Be prepared for a full day out.
2. London: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner
Tucked into the heart of Greater London, the Hard Rock Cafe provides a fun and lively atmosphere for a classic American meal. For just about $38, you get a set menu, a complimentary non-alcoholic drink, and the chance to soak up the rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia, from guitars to costumes worn by legends like John Lennon. This experience is perfect if you’re in the mood for comfort food served in a vibrant setting.
Guests rave about the friendly service and eye-catching decor, though some mention the food is not gourmet, but certainly fun and satisfying. The restaurant’s location makes it easy to combine with shopping or sightseeing around Piccadilly Circus or Leicester Square. The set menu offers a good variety, and the memorabilia shop is a nice souvenir stop. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a lively lunch with a musical twist.
Bottom Line: Great for music fans and families seeking an energetic, informal meal with memorable decor at a fair price.
3. Picadilly Circus: Hard Rock Cafe Set Menu Lunch or Dinner
Skip the line at the Hard Rock Cafe in Piccadilly Circus and enjoy a streamlined experience with priority seating. For roughly $40, you can indulge in American classics like burgers and ribs, all served amidst walls decorated with legendary rock memorabilia. The atmosphere here is lively and full of energy, perfect for a casual, fun lunch or dinner.
Guests consistently praise the professional staff and fast service, with many noting the quality of the burgers and the experience of walking through walls decorated with iconic music artifacts. The location right in the heart of London makes it easy to combine with a walk around Regent Street or a visit to nearby theaters. This tour is perfect for those wanting a quick, memorable meal in an iconic London setting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for visitors wanting an iconic, high-energy lunch with easy access to central London sights.
4. London: River Thames Bike Tour and Borough Market Lunch Stop
For a more active way to experience London, this River Thames Bike Tour combines sightseeing with a delicious stop at Borough Market, one of London’s oldest and most celebrated food markets. The 4-hour guided cycle along both banks of the Thames offers views of Tower of London, St. Paul’s, and Shakespeare’s Globe, making it a perfect choice for those who want to see the city from a different angle.
The lunch break at Borough Market lets you sample a variety of local and international food vendors, making this experience both scenic and flavorful. With a 4.8-star rating, guests love the informative guide and safe cycling routes. The combination of fresh air, exercise, and great food makes this a lively day out for adventurous travelers.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers who want to see London’s landmarks while enjoying a vibrant food scene.
5. City Hike London (with Borough Market lunch break)
This City Hike offers a comprehensive walking tour across London’s most famous sights in just 4.5 hours. Starting at Waterloo Station, you’ll see Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s, and Tower of London, all narrated by a knowledgeable local guide.
The highlight for many is the lunch stop at Borough Market, where you can indulge in a variety of local delicacies. The tour ends at a traditional London pub, making it a perfect blend of sightseeing, cultural insight, and authentic food. With a near-perfect 5-star rating, travelers appreciate the entertaining guide and efficient route. This tour is ideal for those who want a quick, active overview of London with a culinary twist.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a fast-paced, comprehensive London experience with a good lunch break.
6. Luxury Private Tour in London with Lunch
For those who value personalized attention, this Luxury Private Tour offers a customizable 5-hour experience. You’ll visit top landmarks like Westminster, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace, with the added luxury of a private guide. It includes a relaxed lunch at a traditional British restaurant, giving you time to savor local flavors in comfort.
Guests praise the professional guides and the ability to tailor the tour to personal interests, whether that’s royal history, parks, or hidden corners. It costs more at about $404 for your group, but the intimacy and flexibility are unmatched. It’s well-suited for families or couples seeking a private, in-depth tour.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a bespoke experience with a luxurious touch and an authentic British meal.
7. London: Christmas Party Lunch Cruise
Celebrate the festive season aboard this 3-hour Christmas-themed lunch cruise on the River Thames. You’ll enjoy a delicious 3-course meal, lively Christmas music performed live, and views of iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament.
The atmosphere is festive, perfect for those looking to combine a special meal with holiday cheer. Many reviewers highlight the excellent food and friendly service, making it a memorable way to celebrate Christmas in London. It’s an ideal choice for holiday travelers seeking a unique, scenic dining experience.
Bottom Line: A festive, scenic option that combines holiday spirit with a leisurely river cruise.
8. Windsor Castle Tour with Fish and Chips Lunch in London
This tour combines a visit to Windsor Castle, the largest occupied castle in the world, with a classic fish and chips lunch in a traditional London pub. For about $159, you explore the stunning state apartments and learn about royal history, then enjoy a quintessential British meal.
The tour is highly recommended for those interested in royal history and iconic British cuisine. Reviewers mention the beautiful castle interiors and the delicious, authentic fish and chips. It’s a full half-day experience that’s well suited for history buffs and food lovers alike.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a royal experience coupled with a classic British lunch.
9. London: Full-Day English Wine Tour with Lunch
Venture into the English countryside on this full-day wine tour, which visits three award-winning vineyards. For about $202, you’ll sample a variety of English wines, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy a delicious lunch served with a glass of English wine.
Guests love the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the chance to taste wines from different regions. The tour features stunning countryside views and visits to traditional villages, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed yet insightful experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for wine lovers who want to explore England’s emerging wine scene while enjoying a hearty meal.
10. Southampton: London via the Cotswolds, Oxford and Pub Lunch
This full-day transfer from Southampton to London combines Cotswolds villages, Oxford’s historic streets, and a traditional pub lunch in a 15th-century inn. For around $242, it’s a relaxed way to see some of England’s most iconic spots en route to London or Heathrow.
Reviewers appreciate the easy door-to-door service, friendly guides, and the delicious chicken lunch. The tour covers a lot of ground but maintains a comfortable pace, making it suitable for travelers wanting a scenic day with good food on the way to London.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers arriving in Southampton who want a scenic, hassle-free route into London with a hearty meal.
11. From London: Cotswolds, Country Pub Lunch & Lavender Fields
This intimate tour explores the beautiful Cotswolds countryside, including lavender fields, snowdrop-filled villages like Broadway, and Chipping Campden. The highlight is a traditional country pub lunch with a drink included, plus visits to scenic spots less crowded than major villages.
Limited to 16 people, this tour offers personalized attention and a chance to enjoy the sensory delights of lavender and rustic scenery. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful, photogenic experience with local food.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups seeking a peaceful, authentic countryside experience combined with a generous pub lunch.
12. From London: The Cotswolds Day Trip with Lunch
This full-day trip offers a classic Cotswolds experience, including visits to Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bourton-on-the-Water. For about $173, you get a guided tour with lunch at a traditional British pub.
Guests note the well-organized itinerary and friendly guide, making it a reliable way to see the best villages without the hassle of driving. The two-course meal is hearty, and the honey-colored architecture makes for stunning photos.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a straightforward, all-in-one Cotswolds experience with good food included.
13. Private Full Day Tour – Fast Track Tower of London and Lunch
This private tour focuses on fast-track tickets to the Tower of London, combined with a full day of exploring London’s landmarks. You’ll enjoy a traditional British lunch and visit sites like St. Paul’s, Globe Theatre, and Borough Market.
Travelers praise the personalized service and efficient itinerary, which allows plenty of time to appreciate the city’s sights. At roughly $211 per person, this tour is best for those wanting a tailored, skip-the-line experience with a good meal included.
Bottom Line: A flexible private option for travelers who want a curated, in-depth London experience.
14. London: Sunday Lunch Jazz Cruise
Join a 2.5-hour jazz cruise on the River Thames for a Sunday lunch with a musical backdrop. For just over $140, you’ll enjoy a set 3-course Sunday meal while drifting past London’s most famous waterside sights. Live jazz music sets a relaxed, festive scene perfect for a leisurely weekend afternoon.
Reviewers highlight the great atmosphere, tasty food, and excellent service, making it a memorable way to spend a Sunday in London. It’s especially suited for music lovers or those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: A charming, musical way to enjoy a traditional Sunday lunch with scenic views.
15. London River Thames Lunch Cruise
For a shorter, 105-minute experience, this River Thames Lunch Cruise offers a relaxed way to see London’s riverside landmarks while enjoying a delicious 2-course meal. The vessel’s panoramic windows make it easy to soak in views of Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and more.
It’s a good choice if you want a straightforward, scenic lunch without the full-day commitment, and reviews often mention the quality of the food and the comfort of the modern ship.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a quick, relaxing lunch with beautiful river scenery.
How to Choose Your Ideal Lunch Experience in London
When selecting the right lunch experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you love scenic countryside, the Full-day Cotswolds Tour offers a full immersion in English villages, while those wanting a quick city fix might prefer the Hard Rock Cafe. Active travelers can enjoy the Thames Bike Tour, and history enthusiasts might opt for the Windsor Castle full-day experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially for private tours and popular river cruises, to secure your preferred time. Think about whether you want a relaxed, scenic outing or an interactive, city-based adventure—there’s truly something for all.
Choosing among London’s diverse lunch options depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. For a scenic escape, the Cotswolds full-day tour is unbeatable. If you prefer a classic London experience with a lively atmosphere, the Hard Rock Cafe offers a fun and iconic setting. For a mix of sightseeing and great food, the Borough Market lunch stop during the Thames Bike Tour hits all the right notes.
Whatever your choice, these experiences promise a memorable midday break—so book early, and enjoy everything London has to offer.