London’s reputation as a city of history, culture, and quirks makes it a perfect place for memorable tours. The city’s diverse range of experiences includes everything from immersive Harry Potter adventures to elegant river cruises and historic palace visits. Among our favorites is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of the films, complete with sets, costumes, and props that bring the wizarding world to life. Whether you’re a dedicated Potterhead or just love film history, this tour’s 4.7-star reviews reflect its popularity and quality.
London’s appeal also lies in its variety of tour types—guided walks, theme park visits, river cruises, and historic site explorations—all designed to suit different interests, budgets, and schedules. We’ve compiled a list of the 15 best tours in the city, highlighting what makes each one unique, practical tips, and what kind of traveler it best suits. Whether you’re after a quick, budget-friendly experience or an in-depth day trip, there’s something here for everyone.
The Types of Tours on Our List
Our list covers a wide spectrum of London adventures. From the magical Harry Potter experiences like the Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour to historic landmarks such as Windsor Castle, there’s plenty to choose from. For those interested in iconic architecture, the London: Tower Bridge Entry Ticket offers a close-up view of this Victorian marvel. And if you want to see London from above, the The View from The Shard provides spectacular panoramic views. For a relaxing day, consider the Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise, which combines sightseeing with a scenic boat ride. Curious about the royal family? The Buckingham Palace: The State Rooms tour is a perfect fit. Below, we explore each of these top choices in detail.
1. From London: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour
This tour is a must for Harry Potter fans wanting to step into the wizarding world. It includes transport from Victoria Coach Station, a guided bus ride, and 4 hours at the studio where the movies were filmed. You’ll explore iconic sets like Diagon Alley, the Forbidden Forest, and the Hogwarts Great Hall. The tour also offers access to costumes, props, and special effects, making it a full immersion into film magic.
What makes this tour shine is the behind-the-scenes insight, with guides sharing fascinating secrets about how the films were made. The reviews highlight the convenience—picking you up in London and giving plenty of time to explore—plus the fun of walking through the actual sets. For around $141, it’s a pricier day but well worth it for fans who want to experience the magic firsthand. This tour suits those who love film, Harry Potter, or just want a fun, immersive experience outside the city center.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for Harry Potter devotees who want the full studio experience, with detailed sets and behind-the-scenes stories.
2. Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour
For a more interactive and city-centered experience, this 2.5-hour guided walking tour covers Harry Potter-themed sites in central London. It includes a boat or Underground trip, weaving together London’s landmarks like Borough Market, London Eye, and Trafalgar Square, with Harry Potter stops such as Diagon Alley and the Leaky Cauldron. The guide tests your Harry Potter knowledge and even helps determine which Hogwarts house you’d belong to.
Guests rave about the enthusiastic guides and the engaging quiz-style format, making it ideal for families or casual fans. The tour’s focus on London’s iconic sites alongside Harry Potter references makes it a great way to combine sightseeing with fandom fun. At about $28, it offers excellent value, especially for those who want a shorter, lively adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Perfect for fans wanting a lively, city-based Harry Potter experience with a focus on London’s famous landmarks.
3. London: Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter Tour & Branded Bus
This full-day tour combines the studio experience with transport on Warner Bros.-branded buses that include film clips aboard. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive Harry Potter day with 7.5 hours of exploring. Starting from South East England, it includes a behind-the-scenes walk through sets, costumes, and props, plus a chance to walk down Diagon Alley.
Guests appreciate the premium branding and the inclusion of the bus ride with movie clips, which adds to the overall immersion. The tour is well-rated, with a 4.7/5 from thousands of reviews, making it a top choice for dedicated fans looking for a hassle-free, in-depth experience. Suitable for families and Potter obsessives alike, it balances quality and convenience.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one experience that combines studio magic with comfortable transportation, perfect for serious fans.
4. London: Tower Bridge Entry Ticket
A visit to Tower Bridge is a classic London highlight. This ticket grants access to the glass floor walkways and Victorian engine rooms, offering stunning views over the Thames. The audio guide enriches the experience with detailed history, and the views from the top are exceptional, especially at sunset.
Guests say the glass walkway is a “great idea,” and the Victorian engine rooms provide insight into how the bridge operates. At just over $21, this is a great value for an hour-long experience that combines history, engineering, and incredible views. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick but memorable stop at one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective, must-see attraction that offers breathtaking views and fascinating engineering history.
5. London: Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise
This cruise offers a scenic one-way or round-trip ride on the Thames, between Westminster and Greenwich. It’s a relaxing way to see London’s famous sights while enjoying panoramic views from the deck. The audio commentary available in six languages makes it easy to learn about landmarks like the Tower of London, the London Eye, and the Shard.
Guests love how the boat is spacious and the commentary fun and informative. The flexibility to hop off at Greenwich and explore the market or the Royal Observatory adds to its appeal. At around $22, it’s a budget-friendly way to see the city from the river without a strenuous walk.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable, laid-back way to see London’s riverfront and key sights, ideal for families and those wanting a leisurely experience.
6. London: Madame Tussauds London
Visit the world-famous wax museum and get up close with over 150 lifelike celebrities. The experience includes the Marvel 4D Movie, a Royal Family photo opportunity, and new exhibits like Harry Styles. It’s a lively, interactive attraction perfect for families and pop culture fans.
The reviews highlight the 4D movie and the entertainment value, with visitors noting how it blends history and contemporary pop culture seamlessly. For around $39, it’s a good value considering the hours of fun and photo ops. You’ll also get to visit the Royal Balcony, which is a nice touch for royal fans.
Bottom Line: A fun, engaging attraction for all ages, blending celebrity wax figures with immersive experiences.
7. London: St Paul’s Cathedral Entry Ticket
Climbing to the top of St Paul’s Cathedral’s dome offers arguably the best panoramic views of London. The ticket includes multimedia guides, access to the crypt, and the chance to see where Princess Diana and Prince Charles married. The architecture and history are awe-inspiring.
Visiting the crypt and the galleries gives a deeper appreciation of this architectural masterpiece. Guest comments praise the breathtaking views and the informative guides. At about $35, it’s a solid investment for history lovers and those wanting to see London from a new perspective.
Bottom Line: An unmissable experience for view-seekers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
8. London: Jack the Ripper Guided Walking Tour
Explore Victorian London’s most notorious criminal case on this 2-hour walking tour, visiting real crime scenes around Whitechapel. Led by a Ripperologist, the tour offers a gripping narrative of the murders and the suspects.
Guests particularly enjoy the expert storytelling and visit places like Mitre Square and Petticoat Lane, which feel like stepping back in time. For just under $27, it’s a compact but richly detailed experience. Suitable for history buffs and crime fans who want a dark, atmospheric walk through London’s past.
Bottom Line: For those fascinated by crime history, this tour offers a chilling, well-informed journey through London’s dark side.
9. Windsor Castle Admission Ticket
Visit Windsor Castle, the oldest continually inhabited castle in the world. The ticket includes access to the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and treasures from the Royal Collection. The multimedia guides enhance your visit, giving context to the artworks and history.
Reviews mention the beautiful artwork and the possibility of seeing royals during your visit. Visitors love the self-guided tour, which allows plenty of time to explore at your own pace. At $42, it’s a bit of a splurge, but a worthwhile day trip for history, architecture, and royal enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A regal, fascinating day trip that combines history, art, and royal traditions.
10. Harry Potter: Warner Bros. Studio Tour from King’s Cross
This tour mirrors the studio experience but includes round-trip transportation from King’s Cross. It’s perfect if you’re staying near central London and want a magical day exploring sets like The Great Hall and Hogwarts Express.
Guests appreciate the extended time to see everything in detail, although some mention the bus delays and the limited charging options. At about $144, it’s a premium experience suited for Harry Potter fans who want a more flexible schedule and easy transportation.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fans who prefer convenient pickup and longer exploration at the studio.
11. London: The View from The Shard
Climb to Western Europe’s highest viewing platform on the 72nd floor of The Shard. From 800 feet up, you’ll see a 360-degree panorama of London’s skyline. The multimedia exhibits tell stories of London’s history, and the photo opportunities are endless.
Guests mention the fantastic sunset views and friendly staff. Tickets at about $46 include no time limit, so you can linger to soak up the scenery. It’s perfect for romantics, first-timers, or anyone wanting a memorable view.
Bottom Line: A breathtaking viewpoint offering a unique way to see London from a height unmatched by other attractions.
12. Buckingham Palace: The State Rooms Entrance Ticket
A visit to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms reveals royal treasures and exquisite artworks. The multimedia guides make the tour informative, and the gardens provide a peaceful ending. The location is central, and the atmosphere regal but accessible.
Reviews praise the fantastic treasures and the well-organized experience, despite some long queues. At $43, it offers excellent value for a royal experience that’s both grand and intimate.
Bottom Line: A must-see for those interested in royal traditions and the opulence of Buckingham Palace.
13. From London: Full-Day Cotswolds Small-Group Tour
Escape the city with this 9.5-hour tour exploring the charming villages of the Cotswolds. Traveling in an air-conditioned minibus, you’ll visit Burford, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold. The tour includes free time at each stop, allowing you to explore independently.
Guests love the knowledgeable guide and the scenic beauty of the villages. For about $120, it’s a great value for a relaxed day out in the countryside. The trip is best suited for those craving a peaceful escape with picturesque views and historic towns.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a peaceful, scenic day away from London’s hustle, with plenty of time to soak in the English countryside.
14. London: Emirates Stadium Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Get behind the scenes at Arsenal Football Club with this stadium and museum tour. Walk through the changing rooms, sit in the dugout, and learn about the club’s history with an audio guide. It’s great for sports fans and families interested in football lore.
Reviewers mention the interactive elements and friendly staff, making it a fun and engaging experience. Priced at about $47, it offers good value for a sports-themed day out in London.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended tour for football fans wanting an authentic look at Arsenal’s legendary stadium.
15. London: Harry Potter Studio Tour and Oxford Day Trip
Combine a Harry Potter studio visit with a guided tour of Oxford on this full-day adventure. After exploring Warner Bros. studios, you’ll wander the cobbled streets of Oxford, learning about the university’s history. The tour includes transport, guided walking, and free time in both locations.
Guests praise the engaging guide and the well-organized itinerary. At about $187, it’s a long day, but offers a diverse experience for fans of both Harry Potter and historic towns. It’s suited for those who want a comprehensive day trip with a touch of both magic and academia.
Bottom Line: A great pick for travelers who want to combine film magic with historic exploration in one day.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When choosing a tour in London, consider your budget, time available, and personal interests. Fans of Harry Potter should prioritize either the studio tour or the guided walk, depending on whether you want an immersive studio experience or a city walk. Those interested in history and architecture will love the Tower Bridge experience or St Paul’s Cathedral. For a leisurely day, the Thames cruise offers scenic views with minimal effort. And if you’re curious about royal traditions, the Buckingham Palace tour won’t disappoint.
Booking early, especially for popular attractions like Windsor Castle or The Shard, helps avoid long lines. Check availability ahead of time to pick the best times for your schedule and preferences.
Final Thoughts
London offers an incredible variety of tours suited for every type of traveler. If you’re a Harry Potter fan or a history lover, you’ll find plenty of options that bring the city’s stories to life. For those seeking spectacular views or a relaxing river cruise, the city’s landscape provides stunning backdrops and memorable experiences.
Two standout choices are the Warner Bros. Studio Tour for magic lovers and the full-day Cotswolds trip for countryside escapees. For a royal experience, Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms is a top contender. Whatever your interests, booking early and planning according to your schedule will ensure you make the most of your time in London.
