London is one of the best cities in the world for exploring on foot. Its compact neighborhoods, centuries-old streets, and iconic landmarks make walking tours a perfect way to soak in the sights at a relaxed pace. We love how many of these tours offer more than just sightseeing—they provide stories, local insights, and sometimes even a taste of the city’s cuisine or culture. For example, the Notting Hill Walking Tour with Cream Tea combines the charm of a movie-famous neighborhood with a traditional British treat, making it a memorable experience. Whether you’re into history, literature, food, or royal traditions, there’s something here for everyone.
London’s walking tours shine because they give you access to hidden corners and stories you won’t find in guidebooks. Plus, they often include practical tips and personal stories from guides who love sharing their city. From exploring the colorful Southwark to uncovering the secrets of London’s past as a city of kings, prisoners, and writers—these tours show a different side of London than you’d get from just wandering alone.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a wide variety of walking experiences, from historic and royal tours to literary walks and dark history stories. Whether you want a short introductory walk like London: Landmarks Walking Tour or an immersive themed experience such as the Jack the Ripper Tour, there’s something for every taste and schedule. For food lovers, options like the Bermondsey Food & Drink Tour or the Notting Hill Food & Drink Tour let you taste local flavors alongside sightseeing. For royal enthusiasts, the Changing of the Guard & Royal London Tour offers a peek into Britain’s regal life. Each tour is reviewed, rated, and carefully chosen to help you find the best fit for your interests.
1. Notting Hill Walking Tour with Cream Tea
This 4-hour tour is a delightful way to explore Notting Hill, Portobello Road, and Kensington Gardens with a guide. It starts by showing you the famous blue door of the film ‘Notting Hill’ and the vibrant market stalls. You’ll hear stories about Princess Diana and learn about Queen Victoria’s love for Kensington Gardens. One of the highlights is the chance to sit down to a classic cream tea, complete with scones, clotted cream, and jam—a genuine British experience. The tour has high ratings (5/5 from 223 reviews) and offers excellent value at $80.88.
Guests praise the friendly guides, especially Maddie, who is known for her extensive knowledge and engaging style. The tour balances the neighborhood’s colorful history, film fame, and royal connections, making it perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, comprehensive look at west London. The walk is moderate, with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a relaxed stroll through a picture-perfect neighborhood with a flavorful conclusion.
2. London Bridge Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
At number 2, this private 3.5-hour food tour dives into London’s culinary scene around London Bridge. For $461.32, you get a personalized experience with a knowledgeable foodie guide. The tour features British classics like sausage rolls, fish and chips, and bacon baps, plus plenty of tastings to satisfy your appetite. You’ll also visit historic sites such as the Imperial War Museum and the Royal Navy cruiser moored on the Thames, blending culture with cuisine seamlessly.
Guests note the local expertise and the opportunity to enjoy the best local food in a relaxed setting. The private format makes it great for couples or small groups wanting a more intimate experience. It’s perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with sampling authentic British dishes.
Bottom Line: A fantastic, personalized culinary walk for foodies with a sense of adventure and a hearty appetite.
3. Walking Tours – Sights of London
This 2-hour group tour offers a concise overview of London’s key sights with a guide who is a Cambridge literature graduate. For $385.57, up to 10 people can explore literary landmarks connected to Dickens, Shakespeare, and JK Rowling. The tour covers historic sites like Blackfriars, the Sunken Garden in Kensington Gardens, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, with stories that bring each location alive.
Guests praise the insightful commentary and the chance to see lesser-known literary spots. It’s perfect for literature fans or travelers who want to maximize their time without missing out on London’s cultural fabric.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those interested in London’s literary past, with a knowledgeable guide making it special.
4. Jack the Ripper Walking Tour with Expert Ripperologist
For just $23.33 per person, this 2.5-hour tour takes you through Whitechapel with a costumed expert guide. It’s an atmospheric journey into London’s dark history, retracing the footsteps of the infamous Jack the Ripper. You’ll learn about Victorian murder, media frenzy, and local life in 1888. The guide shares entertaining and detailed stories, with stops at key sites like Mitre Square and Borough Market.
Guests love the theatrical touch of guides in period costumes and the rich storytelling. It’s perfect for those who enjoy dark history and a bit of theatrical fun. The tour also provides practical insights into Victorian London and its criminal lore.
Bottom Line: A gripping experience for crime buffs and history enthusiasts who don’t mind a spooky walk.
5. Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of London’s Fiery History
This 2-hour small-group tour, costing $27.54, weaves through London’s tumultuous past, from Roman ruins to World War II bombings. You’ll see Tower of London, St. Dunstan in the East, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, with stories about fire, siege, and rebirth. The tour reveals legendary tales of the London Stone and the Great Fire, giving a layered look at how the city rebuilt itself.
Guests appreciate the deep historical insights and the opportunity to see famous landmarks up close. It’s a perfect choice for history buffs eager to understand London’s resilience amid destruction.
Bottom Line: An immersive history tour suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, story-rich walk.
6. London: Landmarks Walking Tour
This 2-hour tour for $20.66 covers London’s major landmarks like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square. It’s tailored for first timers who want a quick orientation, with a guide leading you through central London’s most iconic sights. The tour concludes with access to a smartphone app for independent exploration, making it easy to revisit later.
Guests highlight the efficient overview and the engaging guide who manages to tell interesting stories at each stop, even in a short time. It’s ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or those new to London.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for first-time visitors seeking a broad, well-organized overview.
7. London: Kensington Palace Afternoon Tea & Guided Walk
At around $169, this 2-4 hour experience combines a guided walk in Kensington Palace Gardens with a classic afternoon tea inside the Orangery. The tour includes exploring Kensington Palace Gardens, learning about royal figures like Princess Diana, and enjoying British-style sandwiches and scones.
Guests rave about the beautiful gardens and the personalized experience. It’s perfect for those interested in royal history paired with a refined culinary treat. The flexible timing allows for a leisurely day in West London.
Bottom Line: A refined experience suited for royal enthusiasts who appreciate a relaxed pace and good food.
8. Shakespeare in the City Walk
For $24.84, this 2-hour walk takes Shakespeare fans to theatre sites and memorials associated with the Bard, with a professional actor delivering famous soliloquies along the way. Starting outside Blackfriars Station, the tour covers spots like Shakespeare’s former residences and the remains of Blackfriars Theatre.
Guests say the guide’s enthusiasm and acting skills make the stories come alive. It’s an engaging choice for those who want a literary theme combined with London’s historic streets.
Bottom Line: A lively, theatrical walk perfect for Shakespeare fans and literary travelers.
9. London Witches and History Walking Tour
This 1-hour-10-minute tour at $24.84 takes you through Southwark and beyond, uncovering stories of suspected witches, medieval executions, and Harry Potter filming locations. Led by a charismatic witch guide, you explore landmarks like Winchester Palace and Borough Market, hearing dark tales with a touch of fun.
Guests praise the entertaining storytelling and the unique theme that reveals London’s darker side. It’s ideal for those interested in mystery, folklore, and unusual history.
Bottom Line: Short but memorable for travelers who want a dark, story-driven walk with a flair.
10. London Police and Crime Walking Tour
Led by a former officer, this 2-hour-15-minute tour for $41.41 explores London’s criminal past and policing history. Stops include Great Scotland Yard, the Sherlock Holmes pub, and Trafalgar Square. The guide shares inside stories and takes you through notorious cases and law enforcement landmarks.
Reviewers mention the depth of knowledge and the interesting anecdotes, making it ideal for crime history enthusiasts. It’s a practical, engaging way to learn about London’s law enforcement evolution.
Bottom Line: A compelling, insider perspective on London’s crime and policing scene.
11. Booze, Brothels & The Bard: A Walking Tour of London’s Bawdy Borough
At $27.60, this 2-hour tour explores Southwark’s notorious past, including Shakespeare’s Globe and Borough Market. Led by a lively guide, you’ll visit Marshalsea Prison remains, the Hop Exchange, and Old Operating Theatre.
Guests enjoy the entertaining stories and the chance to see hidden spots like George Inn, London’s oldest coaching inn. It’s perfect if you’re curious about London’s lively, sometimes scandalous history.
Bottom Line: An energetic, adult-oriented walk for those interested in London’s more colorful stories.
12. Food & Drink Walking Tour in South East London
This 3-hour tour at $103.50 focuses on Bermondsey’s food scene, with tastings at Borough Market and local artisan producers. Led by engaging guides, you’ll try Venezuelan street food, visit gin distilleries, and explore local street markets. The tour offers a great mix of culinary delights and local history.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the sampling of authentic flavors. It’s perfect for food lovers wanting a deeper dive into London’s diverse cuisine.
Bottom Line: Tasty, small-group experience ideal for foodies who want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.
13. Changing of the Guard & Royal London Small-Group Walking Tour
This 2-3 hour tour for $26.22 is a classic for royal fans. It includes watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and visiting St. James’s Palace, Clarence House, and Westminster Abbey. The small-group format allows for personalized stories and better vantage points.
Reviewers mention how guides like Rachel help them see the best spots and answer questions in detail. It’s a reliable choice for those wanting a comprehensive royal tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for royal watchers, providing a good balance of history, spectacle, and personal attention.
14. Food and Drink Walking Tours in West London’s Notting Hill Area
At about $103.29, this 3-hour tour takes you around Notting Hill’s foodie hotspots. You’ll visit Portobello Market, sample Venezuelan street food, and see the filming sites from the Notting Hill movie. The guide also takes you to the Banksy Tunnel to admire street art.
Guests praise the rich variety of tastings and the chance to learn local history while wandering through colorful streets. It’s great for travelers who want a mix of food, culture, and film.
Bottom Line: A lively, flavorful walk for those interested in food, pop culture, and local art.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour for You
When choosing a London walking tour, consider your interests—are you a history buff, a literature lover, or a foodie? Think about your budget and time availability. For example, if you want a quick overview, the London Landmarks Tour fits well, while those seeking a deep dive into royal traditions might prefer the Royal Tour.
For food lovers, the Bermondsey Food & Drink Tour offers delicious tastings, and if you’re fascinated by London’s darker side, the Jack the Ripper Tour is a must.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons or for private experiences like the London Bridge Food Tour, which are popular.
Final Thoughts
London offers a diverse range of walking tours that cater to all interests and schedules. From royal ceremonies and literary walks to dark history and culinary adventures, the city’s streets are rich with stories waiting to be uncovered. For families, history buffs, or those simply wanting to get your bearings early, a guided walk can be both practical and enjoyable.
For best value, consider tours like the Sights of London or the Landmarks Tour, which offer quick overviews at affordable prices. If you’re after something more specialized—say, the Jack the Ripper Tour or the Royal Tour—booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out. No matter your choice, these tours promise a richer, more personal way to experience London’s storied streets.