London shines as a city where every brick tells a story. Its streets are layered with centuries of history, from medieval castles to Victorian pubs and modern architecture. What makes London particularly special is how accessible its stories are—many tours put you right at the heart of the action, often with local guides who make history come alive. We love a good pub crawl in the city’s historic watering holes, like the London: Soho Music and Historic Pubs Walking Tour — where legends like The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix once drank. Or, for a taste of regal grandeur, the Royal Historic Pubs tour takes you to pubs with ties to Churchill and the Queen. Whether you’re into royal tradition, dark crimes, or ancient architecture, London offers a tour that’s just right for your curiosity.
In this list, we cover a variety of experiences, from walking tours through medieval sites to bus journeys into rock ‘n’ roll history, and even a specialized boat cruise in the Docklands. Whether you’re after a quick 2-hour walk or a 4-hour pub crawl, there’s a tour here that suits your time and style. Want to snap photos of London’s landmarks? The Private Landmark Tour with a Photographer offers personalized photos that you’ll cherish forever. For those fascinated by architecture, the Brutalist Architecture & History Walking Tour reveals London’s modernist side. Read on for full details and find your perfect way to explore London’s fascinating past.
1. London: Soho Music and Historic Pubs Walking Tour
This tour is a lively walk through Soho, the heart of London’s entertainment scene, visiting 4 iconic pubs with a focus on musical legends like The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and David Bowie. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll discover the stories behind places where Marilyn Monroe once partied and Lennon drank. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, making it perfect for an afternoon adventure. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and fascinating stories, with reviews highlighting the “entertaining” and “informative” nature of the tour. Expect to hear wild tales of legendary bands and visit hidden landmarks most visitors miss. For about $39, this tour offers great value for an intimate look at London’s boozy and musical history. Perfect if you enjoy lively storytelling combined with a bit of pub culture.
Bottom line: A spirited and personal tour that combines history, music, and a taste of London’s pub scene—great for fans of London’s musical legacy who want a relaxed walk.
2. London: Historic Pubs of Central London Walking Tour
This 3.5-hour guided walk covers 4 of London’s most historic pubs, exploring the city’s drinking history along busy streets and quiet back alleys. Led by guides with extensive knowledge, you’ll stroll down “the street of shame” and visit Victorian gin palaces with massive collections of spirits. Guests love the quirky facts and hidden backstreets revealed along the way, with reviews remarking on the guide’s storytelling and local tips. For $39, this tour offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and local flavor—ideal for those who want to experience London’s pub scene in a relaxed setting. The tour is especially good for curious drinkers who want to learn about London’s long relationship with ale and gin.
Bottom line: An engaging walk through London’s historic drinking spots, perfect for lovers of history and a good pint in authentic surroundings.
3. London: Royal Historic Pubs Walking Tour
On this 2.5-hour tour, you’ll explore London’s royal district and visit 4 hidden pubs steeped in royal history, some frequented by Winston Churchill and others with ties to the monarchy. Your guide shares stories of royal ceremonies, coronations, and historical figures as you walk past palaces and secret alleyways. Guests consistently mention how informative and fun the guides are, with a particular highlight being a visit to Churchill’s house. At $39, this tour offers a rich mix of history, architecture, and local lore. It’s well suited for history enthusiasts interested in royal tales and historic taverns that have withstood the test of time.
Bottom line: A regal stroll through London’s historic pubs with royal stories, ideal for history lovers and those interested in London’s monarchy.
4. London: Medieval History Walking Tour from The Tower
This 2-hour tour is a deep dive into London’s medieval past, passing by landmarks like the Tower of London and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. It starts at Tower Hill, where your guide takes you inside the Tower, revealing its 1000-year history. The route includes crossing Tower Bridge, visiting HMS Belfast, and walking in the footsteps of Shakespeare. The tour also explores Winchester Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Guests comment on how comprehensive and engaging the guide is, with many feeling they leave with a solid understanding of medieval London. At just $24.25, it’s an excellent value. Particularly suitable for history fans who want a thorough overview of London’s early history in a short time.
Bottom line: A compact yet detailed tour of medieval London sites, perfect for history buffs eager to see iconic landmarks with context.
5. London: Westminster Abbey Tour with a Royal Heritage Guide
This 2-hour guided tour provides insider access to Westminster Abbey, a site of royal coronations, weddings, and funerals since 1066. Led by an expert guide, you’ll stand where monarchs have been crowned, and learn about historic ceremonies and notable figures buried there. The guide shares stories of royal pageantry and the Abbey’s Gothic architecture, including the Coronation Chair. Reviews mention engaging guides and skip-the-line access. Priced at around the cost of a typical entrance ticket, this tour offers extra depth and storytelling that enriches the experience. Suitable for travelers interested in British royal traditions and Gothic architecture.
Bottom line: A must for royal history fans wanting an in-depth look at Westminster Abbey’s role in Britain’s monarchy.
6. London: Rock ‘n’ Roll History Tour
This 3.5-hour guided bus tour takes you to famous music landmarks like Abbey Road, Queen’s Kensington residence, and sites related to Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles. Led by Clive, the guide shares stories about London’s role in shaping rock history, and the bus allows access to places you might not walk to. Guests emphasize the knowledgeable guide, with many mentioning the photo opportunity at Abbey Road as a highlight. The tour costs $87.55, offering a rundown of London’s musical scene. It’s best suited for music fans who want to see the city from a different angle, with stories behind the iconic album covers and legendary performers.
Bottom line: A lively, informative journey through London’s musical heritage—ideal for fans wanting a mix of sightseeing and rock ‘n’ roll tales.
7. London: Witches and History Bankside Walking Tour
This 75-minute tour blends London’s dark history with tales of witches, secret alleys, and landmarks like The Clink prison and Shakespeare’s Globe. Led by a charismatic character guide, you’ll visit sites linked to witchcraft accusations and explore the sinister side of London’s past. Reviews praise the storytelling and the fun, spooky atmosphere. Costing only $24.25, it’s perfect for those with limited time who want a quick but atmospheric history lesson. Fans of ghost stories and medieval law will find this a fascinating and entertaining walk.
Bottom line: Engaging and quick, great for horror enthusiasts or anyone curious about London’s darker history.
8. London: 2-Hour Historic Pub Tour
This short but rich 2-hour tour explores London’s oldest drinking establishments. Led by George, you’ll visit 3 pubs with histories dating back centuries, including Charles Dickens’ favorite haunts. The tour includes a complimentary half-pint and plenty of lively stories about London’s seedy underbelly. Guests love the friendly guide and the relaxed pace, with reviews highlighting the fun and informative nature. At $40.41, it’s a quick taste of London’s pub history with local flavor. Best for those short on time but eager for authentic pubs and intriguing stories.
Bottom line: A lively, convivial introduction to London’s historic pubs—ideal for a short, fun outing.
9. London: Natural History Museum Tour
For a scientific twist, this 2.5-hour tour explores over 4.5 billion years of history at London’s Natural History Museum. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll see fossils like the Iguanodon teeth, Pompeii casts, the Dodo skeleton, and even a first edition of On the Origin of Species. Guests rave about the guide’s expertise and engaging manner, making the museum’s exhibits come alive. At $96.96, it’s a premium experience, well worth it for families or nature lovers curious about Earth’s history. The museum’s vast collections make it suitable for all ages, especially those interested in natural sciences.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, engaging museum tour for those eager to learn about Earth’s and life’s history in a world-famous setting.
10. London: Historic Pubs of London Walking Tour
This 4-hour walk is a deep dive into London’s historic pubs, visiting 4 establishments including London’s oldest licensed premises. Led by Mike, you’ll explore Covent Garden and uncover stories of British folklore, legendary figures, and hidden taverns. Guests praise Mike’s storytelling and the chance to meet locals in authentic pubs. For just $18.86, this tour offers excellent value, particularly for those wanting a longer, more relaxed pub crawl. It’s especially good for travelers interested in British culture, food, and drink traditions.
Bottom line: An extended pub tour blending history, local legends, and lively atmosphere — perfect for a relaxed, social experience.
11. London: Private Landmark Tour with a Professional Photographer
For personalized memories, this private 20-45 minute photoshoot with a professional photographer is ideal. Led by Surjan or Mariana, you’ll visit iconic spots like the Queen Victoria Memorial and The London Eye, ending with professionally edited images in a downloadable gallery within 48 hours. Guests highlight the ease of posing and the quality of photos, making this a popular choice for families and couples. Priced at $150.19 per group, it’s a bit of an investment but offers genuine keepsakes of your London trip. Suitable for those who want beautifully captured moments without hassle.
Bottom line: A unique way to preserve your trip with professional photos in London’s most photogenic locations.
12. London: Jack the Ripper Tour with Historic Pub Stops
This 2.5-hour tour walks through the shadowy streets of Whitechapel, focusing on the infamous Jack the Ripper case. Led by Jude or Yasin, you’ll visit historic pubs linked to the case and hear gripping stories of Victorian London’s dark side. Reviewers mention the fascinating storytelling and the well-paced route that balances history with its haunted reputation. At no cost mentioned, this tour offers a chilling experience perfect for true crime fans. It’s great for those who want a compact, intense dose of London’s sinister history.
Bottom line: An atmospheric walk for crime enthusiasts, blending Victorian tales withauthentic pub stops.
13. London: Historic Pubs, British Ales & Classic Dishes
This 3.5-hour tour combines historic pubs, traditional British ales, and classic dishes. Led by Judd, you’ll visit 4 historic pubs, taste local beers, and play pub games with new friends. The food tastings and lively atmosphere make it stand out. Guests love the personable guide and the chance to chat with staff and locals. With a cost of $92.94, the tour provides a full evening of eating, drinking, and storytelling—especially suited for foodies and drink lovers eager to mingle in London’s authentic pub setting.
Bottom line: A flavorful, social tour blending history with great food and drink—perfect for a relaxed evening.
14. London: Hot Tub Boat Guided Historical Docklands Cruise
This 75-minute cruise offers a hot tub experience on the Thames, exploring London’s Docklands. Led by Hayden, you’ll relax in warm water while seeing Canary Wharf and the historic docks. Guests enjoy the novelty of combining scenic views with a soothing soak, ideal for those seeking relaxation and a different perspective on the city’s modern development. The tour costs $60.61, with drinks available for purchase. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a leisurely, memorable experience that combines sightseeing with comfort.
Bottom line: A unique, relaxing way to see London’s Docklands, especially suited for those who like a bit of luxury and novelty.
15. London: Brutalist Architecture & History Walking Tour
This 2.5-hour tour takes you into London’s post-war architectural style, focusing on Brutalist buildings like the National Theatre. Led by Evan, you’ll learn about the use of concrete and the social history behind these striking structures. Guests appreciate the engaging explanations and the chance to photograph London’s modernist landmarks. At $47.14, it’s a good value for architecture enthusiasts eager to explore an often-overlooked part of London’s urban landscape. The tour is suitable for those interested in 20th-century design, history, and photography.
Bottom line: An educational tour of London’s boldest architecture, ideal for modernist architecture fans and urban explorers.
How to Choose Your Perfect London Historical Tour
When selecting a London tour, consider your interests—are you a fan of royalty, architecture, music, or crime stories? For those wanting a deep dive into royal traditions, the Westminster Abbey Tour offers a detailed experience. If your passion lies in music and nightlife, then the Soho Pub Tour or the Rock ‘n’ Roll Tour are excellent options. Budget-wise, shorter walks like the Medieval Walk from The Tower or the Witches and History Tour offer great value. For a customized memory, the Photographer Tour ensures you leave with stunning photos.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the Private Landmark Photoshoot or the Jack the Ripper Tour, which tend to fill up quickly. Think about your fitness level and how much walking or standing is involved—some tours are short and relaxed, while others are more extensive.
In sum, London offers a brochure of experiences suited to all tastes. Whether you want to walk through medieval alleys, sip in royal pubs, or capture your memories with a professional photographer, the key is to pick what excites you most and plan ahead.
If you want a lively pub crawl with stories of legendary bands, the London: Soho Music and Historic Pubs Walking Tour is a must. Prefer exploring royal secrets? The Royal Historic Pubs will satisfy your curiosity. For architecture aficionados, the Brutalist Architecture offers a peek into London’s modernist structures.