See More Taxi Tours: City Sights from Above and Below

If you’re looking for a way to explore London that feels both personal and immersive, this See More Taxi Tours experience might just fit the bill. Offering a blend of above-ground sightseeing and underground adventures, it promises to show you a side of London most visitors don’t get to see. The fact that it’s a private tour means you can tailor the experience to your interests, and with knowledgeable guides, you’ll feel like you’re exploring the city with a friendly local.

What really caught our eye is how this tour combines unique vantage points—from riding in a classic black cab over the Thames to climbing historic monuments—and hidden underground tunnels that reveal London’s lesser-known history. Plus, the inclusion of great views from landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Thames Cable Car makes this experience stand out. One thing to consider, though, is the price, which is at a premium compared to typical bus tours. But if you value comfort, exclusivity, and a flexible itinerary, this could be well worth it.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth look at London’s sights, especially those interested in history and panoramic views. It’s not ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer big group tours. If you like your sightseeing with a dash of local stories and some adventure, then it might just become a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with a knowledgeable guide — perfect for a personal touch.
• Combines above and below-ground sights, giving a comprehensive view of London’s history and architecture.
• Includes iconic landmarks like St. Paul’s, the Monument to the Great Fire, and views of Big Ben.
• Unique vantage points such as underground tunnels, church crypts, and the top of tall monuments.
• Comfortable transportation in a classic black cab with modern features like a glass roof.
• Optional add-ons include the Thames Cable Car, enhancing the experience but at an extra cost.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting with a Classic London Black Cab

The journey kicks off with hotel pickup in a shiny black taxi, which is a treat in itself. These cabs aren’t just for transport; they’re a symbol of London and add a touch of authenticity to your adventure. The driver/guide greets you warmly and starts with a quick introduction to the city’s history, setting the tone for the four hours ahead.

Once seated, you’ll get to enjoy comfortable air-conditioned seats and a panoramic glass roof—a nice touch that makes sightseeing more enjoyable as you glide through streets and over bridges. From the start, you’ll notice how this setup allows for a more intimate and flexible experience compared to larger bus tours.

Exploring London’s Underground Tunnels

One of the tour’s standout features is the exploration of London’s underground tunnels. This isn’t a typical sightseeing stop, but rather an adventure into the city’s secretive and often overlooked subterranean world. Your guide will take you through parts of an underground network beneath the River Thames and visit a historic church crypt.

Many reviews highlight how fascinating this part is. As one reviewer described, the tunnels played a vital role during Victorian times and the world wars, offering a glimpse into London’s resilience and ingenuity. The crypt adds a mysterious, almost eerie element that appeals to those fascinated by history and hidden spaces.

Climbing the Monument to the Great Fire

Next, you’ll head to the Monument to the Great Fire of London. This towering column, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, is not just a landmark but also a symbol of London’s recovery from disaster. The highlight here is climbing the 311-step staircase inside the monument to reach the viewing platform.

The ascent is well worth it; the views from the top are impressive, giving you a panoramic snapshot of the city’s skyline, including nearby St. Paul’s Cathedral. Several reviewers mention how this climb is a fun challenge and provides a unique perspective you can’t get from street level.

Gazing at St. Paul’s Cathedral

No trip to London is complete without taking in St. Paul’s Cathedral, and this tour offers an up-close look at its grand dome. While you won’t necessarily go inside unless you purchase additional tickets, the guide points out the cathedral’s impressive architecture and shares stories about its design and history.

Some guests appreciate how this tour brings together the architectural marvels with storytelling that enhances the visual experience. From the outside, the dome appears even more spectacular, especially when you understand the craftsmanship behind it.

Optional Crossings and Views

If you choose the additional Thames Cable Car ride, you’ll cross the river on a modern cable car, offering spectacular views of the Thames and London’s skyline. It’s a contemporary way to see the city from a different angle, connecting the Royal Docks to Greenwich.

While this is an extra charge (around £8.60 per person), many reviews mention how this view is a highlight and adds a modern, scenic element to the tour. The cable car also provides an opportunity for memorable photos and a different perspective on London’s river.

Final Stop and Tour End

The tour wraps up after about four hours, with the option to be dropped off at your hotel or to finish at a central location like Westminster. The flexibility and personalized nature of this experience mean you can tailor the ending to suit your plans.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating based on 19 reviews. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—from David, Jason, Steve, to Gordon—highlighting their friendliness, adaptability, and depth of knowledge. Many mention how the guides tailored the stops to their interests, adding extra stops or focusing on particular sights.

One reviewer noted, “He quickly learned our interests and took us places we wouldn’t have gone on our own.” Another shared, “Our guide Gordon gave us a very personalized tour, extremely knowledgeable and personable.” These comments underscore how important the guide’s expertise is to making this tour memorable.

The views also earn high marks. Tourists love being able to see London’s skyline, iconic landmarks, and secret corners that aren’t typically part of larger group tours. The experience of riding through the city in a classic cab, combined with stops on tall monuments, offers a sense of exclusivity and comfort.

Practicalities and Value

While the cost is $685.49 for up to six people—which might seem steep—it’s crucial to consider what’s included. This isn’t a standard sightseeing bus; it’s a private, tailored experience that combines comfort, flexibility, and insider access. The reviews confirm that most travelers find it worth the price, especially if you appreciate a personal touch and want to avoid crowded tours.

The tour’s duration of about four hours makes it a manageable but comprehensive way to see a lot of London’s highlights without feeling rushed. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, especially after a long day of traveling or if you’re staying centrally.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who value personalized attention and want a more in-depth and flexible way to see London. If you’re fascinated by historic sites, architecture, and hidden tunnels, you’ll appreciate the variety and depth of stops. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling and are eager to learn beyond the surface.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children with an interest in history and a steady climb (like the 311-step Monument) might find this engaging. However, it’s primarily geared toward adults or older teens who can comfortably navigate the physical aspects.

If you’re after a stress-free, comfortable exploration in a classic London cab with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a unique blend of sights, stories, and views. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview with a personal touch, or for repeat visitors eager to see London from a fresh angle.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from your centrally located London hotel are included, making the experience convenient and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 4 hours, giving enough time to explore key sights without feeling rushed.

Can I add the Thames Cable Car?
Yes, the cable car crossing is available for an additional charge (around £8.60 return per adult). It’s a popular extra that provides fantastic views of the Thames.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to places like Westminster Cathedral or the London Cable Car are not included. You might find these tickets cost a few pounds extra, but they are optional.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for kids, older children interested in history and architecture might enjoy it. The climb inside the Monument involves 311 steps, which may not be suitable for very young children.

What makes this tour different from a regular bus tour?
The private black cab, personalized guide, and focus on both above and underground sights create a more intimate and flexible experience, with fewer crowds and tailored stops.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 6 people per group, making it a cozy, private experience.

What’s the cost?
The price is $685.49 per group, which covers the private tour for up to six travelers. When split, it often makes for good value, especially given the personalized service.

To sum it up, if you’re after a tour that combines luxury, personalized storytelling, and a mix of above and below-ground sights, this Black Cab experience offers something quite special in London. The knowledgeable guides and unique vantage points make it a memorable way to see the city, especially if you enjoy a relaxed pace and insider insights. It’s a splurge, but one that many travelers say was well worth the cost for the quality and intimacy it provides.

This tour best suits those who want a comprehensive, flexible, and comfortable London experience, especially if you’re curious about hidden tunnels and panoramic views. For anyone seeking a personalized, story-rich adventure that takes you beyond the typical tourist spots, this could be just the thing to elevate your London trip.