Climb The O2 Arena & See London’s Main Sights Walking Tour

Planning a day in London that combines sightseeing with a touch of adventure? This tour offers a unique blend of exploring London’s iconic landmarks on foot, guided by knowledgeable locals, and then scaling the famous O2 Arena for stunning panoramic views.

What we love about this experience: first, the comprehensive sightseeing route that hits all the must-see spots; second, the chance to see London from above after a lively walk; and third, the intimate group size that keeps things personal. The only thing to consider is that the up at The O2 climb isn’t included in the guide’s narration, so you’ll need to be prepared to handle the logistics yourself after the walk.

If you’re a curious traveler who enjoys a balanced mix of history, culture, and a dash of adrenaline, this tour is perfect. It’s especially great for those who like to get off the beaten path, with authentic insights from local guides, and seek that memorable photo from one of London’s top vantage points.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining London’s top sights with an active climb
• Expert local guides sharing stories and insider tips
• Small group size (max 15) for a more personal experience
• All entrance fees for the O2 climb included in the price
• Ideal for those with moderate fitness willing to walk and climb
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

A Day of Contrasts: Walking and Climbing in London

This tour makes the most of a full day, roughly six hours, and is designed to give you a well-rounded impression of London’s grandeur. It begins in the luxury setting of The Ritz on Piccadilly before stepping outside into the lively streets that are filled with history and character.

You’ll first visit Buckingham Palace, walking through Green Park on the way. The highlight here isn’t just the view of the palace—it’s the possibility of catching the Changing of the Guard ceremony if your visit falls on a scheduled day (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday at 10 am). As one reviewer pointed out, the guide, Joanne, was eager to help find the best spots for viewing, which adds a layer of insider knowledge that’s priceless during such a popular spectacle.

Next, the tour takes you to Trafalgar Square, with its Nelson’s Column and views of the National Gallery, giving you a great sense of London’s public spaces. From there, you’ll stroll past Horse Guards Parade, taking in the iconic arch and the colorful uniforms of the guards—an image that never gets old.

Walking along Whitehall, you’ll see the grand Government buildings and the famous Downing Street, home to Britain’s Prime Ministers since 1735. This part of the walk offers a taste of political history and the city’s administrative heartbeat. Then, it’s on to Parliament Square, where the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben are impossible to miss—perfect photo ops and an opportunity to marvel at the historic architecture.

Your guide is keen to share stories about the buildings and figures behind them, keeping the experience engaging. The tour continues with a visit to Westminster Abbey, where over a thousand years of monarchy and history have unfolded. Though the Abbey’s interior isn’t part of this tour, the exterior views combined with the guide’s anecdotes make for a memorable stop.

Exploring the Southbank and Beyond

After a quick underground ride, you arrive at the vibrant Southbank area, home to modern art venues like the Tate Modern and the world-famous Shakespeare’s Globe theatre. Here, the atmosphere is lively, with street performers and food stalls adding to the scene. You’ll get around 40 minutes here to soak it all in and even enjoy some free time.

Walking onto Millennium Bridge offers a striking view of St Paul’s Cathedral, especially with its large dome dominating the skyline. The guide will point out interesting facts as you cross, and you might find yourself snapping photos of the splendid architecture from this unique vantage point.

Next, you’ll venture into Borough Market, one of London’s most beloved food hubs. Your guide will take you inside, where you can sample local delicacies or simply enjoy the bustling atmosphere. The market is also known for its connection to Harry Potter filming locations, adding a fun twist for fans. Nearby, the historic Southwark Cathedral offers a quiet contrast to the market’s energy.

The tour then moves to London Bridge, providing fantastic views of sights like Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and the towering Shard. This part of the tour is great for photos and absorbing the city’s mix of history and modernity.

The Climb Up The O2 Arena

After approximately 30 minutes at London Bridge, the adventure takes an adrenaline-filled turn: the climb up The O2 Arena. You’ll meet your guide outside the arena and receive tickets and instructions for the ascent.

The climb lasts around an hour and takes you high above the city, offering breathtaking, 360-degree views of London. Reviewers consistently praise this part of the experience: “It’s a safe climb, supervised by experts, and the views are stunning—well worth the effort.” Since tickets are included in the price, you won’t need to worry about extra costs beyond transportation to get to the arena, which is about a 20-minute journey on public transit.

While the guide doesn’t accompany you during the climb, they provide all the necessary information beforehand—making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned climber. The view from the top is described as “something most locals don’t get to see,” making it a memorable highlight.

Practical Details and Tips

Tour Price & Value: At around $161.77 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the inclusion of the O2 climb, a comprehensive sightseeing route, and a knowledgeable guide. It’s perfect for those who want a hassle-free way to tick off multiple landmarks and add some adventure to their day.

Duration & Group Size: The six-hour schedule is well-paced, with enough time to enjoy each stop without rushing. Limited to 15 participants, the small group size ensures more personal attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Physical Fitness: The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and climbing approximately 90 minutes up The O2. Reviewers mention a moderate fitness level is recommended, but it’s manageable for most travelers in decent shape.

Meeting & Ending Points: Starting at The Ritz London, the tour ends near the Southbank. It’s convenient for public transport, and the guide will provide directions for the climb afterward.

Additional Costs: Snacks, drinks, and lunch are not included, so plan to bring some water or small snacks. Also, transportation costs from the meeting point to The O2 are about £5, which you should budget for.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

One reviewer pointed out a potential hiccup: “Don’t do it! This tour was primarily advertised as the O2 climb and a walking tour secondary. When I asked the guide Joanne how we were getting to the O2, she said she’d get me to the underground station and I was on my own.” While isolated, this feedback highlights the importance of being prepared for independent transfer after the tour, as the guide doesn’t accompany you during the climb.

Conversely, many appreciated the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. “Joanne was eager to help find the best spots for viewing the Changing of the Guard,” one reviewer said, emphasizing the value of a personable guide who enhances the experience with insider tips.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, active day in London. It’s ideal for those who appreciate history and architecture, enjoy small group settings, and aren’t afraid of a bit of physical activity. It also suits visitors keen to combine sightseeing with an exciting climb that offers a totally different perspective of London.

Final Thoughts

This experience provides a fantastic way to see some of London’s most iconic sights while adding a memorable highlight—the climb of The O2 Arena. The knowledgeable guides, accessible itinerary, and inclusion of the climb make it a strong choice for curious travelers who want both culture and adventure.

If you’re after a full day that balances sightseeing, storytelling, and a touch of adrenaline, this tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring some water, and be ready for a climb that’s both safe and spectacular.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
It is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, so older children and teenagers should be fine, provided they’re comfortable walking and climbing.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes guided sightseeing of over 30 London sights, entrance tickets for the O2 climb, and the services of an expert guide.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, if your visit falls on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday at 10 am, the guide will help you find a good spot to watch the Changing of the Guard.

How long is the walk between landmarks?
The walk covers several key sites, with each stop lasting between 20 to 40 minutes, and the entire route is paced comfortably over six hours.

Are the entrances to sights like Westminster Abbey included?
No, the tour does not include admission to Westminster Abbey or other individual attractions—outside of The O2 climb, which is included.

How do I get to The O2 after the walking tour?
Your guide provides tickets and directions for the approximately 20-minute public transport journey to The O2 Arena once the walking tour concludes.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and dress appropriately for the weather as most of the tour is outdoors.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, there are designated stops where you can take photos or grab a snack before moving on to the next site.

What if I want to skip parts of the tour?
Since it’s a guided experience, it’s best to communicate with your guide if you wish to skip certain stops, but the itinerary is designed for a full experience.

Is the climb up The O2 arena challenging?
The climb is supervised and considered safe for most, but it does require a moderate level of fitness. It’s a rewarding experience with stunning views at the top.