London’s 5 Best Walking Tours

The London Tube is great. It’s convenient and has pretty cool infrastructure. But, let's face it, sometimes you yearn for a change of pace, a chance to slow down and immerse yourself in the city's rhythm. That's where walking comes in.

Lace up your shoes, embrace the freedom of your own two feet, and prepare for a journey that guarantees a workout and unveils some of London's most breathtaking, picturesque views.

During your visit to London, why not bid farewell the stuffy tunnels and change them for some open air with one (or some) of the following walking tours? Each of the following walking tours in London provides a unique experience of history and culture that will make your trip more memorable. You can find something for everyone on this list.

1. Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour

This tour fills your history and culture bucket to the brim. You begin the tour at Piccadilly Circus, where you will gather to learn about the rich background behind the changing of the guard ceremony. This age-old tradition captures the grandeur and ceremonial beauty of British history. From there, you can expect to walk by some of London’s top sights as you walk by the elegant Pall Mall and distinguished Waterloo Place.

Once you arrive at St. James Palace, you can witness the uniform inspection, showcasing the guards' precision, discipline, and timeless tradition. And later, you can march in step with the guards. On some occasions, you may be treated to the enchanting melodies of the band accompanying the guards! And here's a fun fact to enhance your appreciation: The guards' shifts last for two hours.

The changing of the guard ceremony is a symbol of national pride and heritage, and by participating in this walk, you become part of that legacy.

The tour lasts 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Closest Metro Stop: Piccadilly Circus.

Price: € 25.61 per person.

Meeting start point: Outside the Criterion Theatre, next to the Statue of Eros on Piccadilly Circus.

Tickets: Changing of the Guards tour

2. No Diet Club Food Tour

Curated by two knowledgeable local foodies, the No Diet Club Food tour will introduce you to great places you might not have encountered. On this walking tour, you will be sampling foods from Old Spitalfields to the Borough Market, oh and the food is included.

London is a multicultural hub full of delicacies and exciting fusions. Look forward to trying local cheeses, artisanal ice cream, chai, and more surprises along the way. Go off the beaten path and leave the guidebooks behind to eat like a proper Londoner with one of the best London walking tours for food lovers. And fear not, if the markets capture your heart (and appetite), you can always revisit them during your trip, delving even deeper into their wonders and exploring their products.

Before concluding this gastronomic adventure, savor the mushroom risotto at Borough Market! So, whether you're a dedicated food lover, a curious culinary explorer, or simply someone who enjoys the delights of the palate, this walking tour promises to be an experience like no other. Allow the flavors, aromas, and stories of London's food scene to captivate your senses, and let the city's culinary treasures become a cherished part of your London adventure.

The tour lasts 4 hours.

Closest Metro Stop: Liverpool Street.

Price: From €59 per person.

Meeting start point: St. John Bread and Wine.

Tickets: No Diet Club East London Tour

Things to Keep in Mind

All of the walking tours mentioned in this article are different. They explore different parts of the city and are aimed to appease different sets of interests.

However, they have one thing in common: large bags and suitcases are prohibited. But if you have a large bag, don’t worry, we have a solution. Find a nearby Nannybag storage location!

With Nannybag, you pay a flat rate per bag, and your bags are insured to complete your walking tours without stress. Finding a location to drop off is simple: download the mobile app, browse drop-off points close to you, and complete your booking. So make sure you’re securing your luggage in safe storage with Nannybag. After all, you can’t do a walking tour if you’re full of luggage!

3. Historical Pub Tour

Indulge in London’s diverse beer scene with this historical walking pub tour. Throughout the tour, you will visit 4 of the city’s most historical pubs while learning their fun and quirky history from 1549. As you step into these historic establishments, you'll be transported to a bygone era, walking in the very footsteps of literary giants like Shakespeare and Dickens, who found inspiration within the walls of these legendary pubs. Who knows, maybe within, you too will discover a newfound inspiration that will forever shape your creative journey.

The tour is a gentle 2 miles, allowing you to soak in the city's sights, sounds, and flavors. It includes a stroll through the “street of shame,” a historically notorious locale with captivating stories and secrets. The trip finishes close to the vibrant vicinity of Strand and Covent Garden, where you can feel free to continue your pub-hopping adventure, discovering more hidden gems and indulging in the flavors of London's thriving beer culture.

This historical walking pub tour isn't just about the beer; it's a celebration of London's rich heritage and an invitation to the past. Don’t forget to bring your ID for this one! Cheers!

The tour lasts 3.5 hours.

Closest Metro Stop: St. Paul.

Price: From € 29.10 per person.

Meeting start point: outside St. Paul's underground station (Exit 2) on Panyer Alley.

Tickets: Historical Pub Tour

4. Ted Lasso Tour

Calling all AFC Richmond fans and admirers of Apple TV's beloved show, Ted Lasso—this experience is tailor-made for you. Venture out to West London and spend the day in Richmond for this walking tour. The tour is led by a local guide knowledgeable about the area and a devoted fan of the show. This tour promises to provide exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and fascinating trivia about the making of Ted Lasso.

They will take you to 12 of the filming locations and a couple of iconic spots. Prepare to be filled with excitement as you approach Ted's front door. Later, stroll to the Crown and Anchor, the beloved local pub where the AFC Richmond squad congregates and shares moments of triumph. You'll even have the chance to visit the spot where Roy and Keeley had their first date (sorry, Jamie, Keely, and Roy are endgame).

If the three seasons of Ted Lasso have left you craving more, then this walking tour is an absolute must-do in your London itinerary. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself fully in the show's world, walk the same paths as your favorite characters, and experience the magic of Ted Lasso in a whole new way. So, this tour is for you whether you're a die-hard fan, a casual viewer, or simply someone who appreciates a heartwarming and uplifting story and wants to visit Richmond.

The tour lasts 2.5 hours.

Closest Metro Stop: Richmond Railway Station.

Price: From € 37.27 per person.

Meeting start point: Outside the main entrance/exit of Richmond Railway Station.

Tickets: Ted Lasso Tour

Rain or shine, the tour continues, so make sure to dress accordingly and check the weather beforehand!

5. Serial Killers: The Blood and Tears Walk

Embark on a chilling journey through the sinister underbelly of London as you delve into the darker and more eerie aspects of its history with The Blood and Tears Walk tour. This isn’t solely a jack ripper tour but encapsulates a myriad of the horrific events that have taken place in the city.

Brace yourself for a spine-tingling adventure that will take you through 11 different sites, unraveling tales of notorious serial killers and the world of grave robbers. The tour is guided by none other than the author of “Bloody London,” Declan McHugh, and for an upgrade, you can include the autographed book in your admission.

A souvenir and tour all in one! But be prepared to experience various emotions; the tour might even inspire a few haunting nightmares. The tour terminates at Princess Louise Pub, known for its extraordinary Victorian décor so you can cool off and grab a drink… if you dare go in after hearing the final serial killer story.

Warning: It is important to note that this tour is not for the faint of heart. The tales you will hear and the sights you will witness are not for the easily frightened or those seeking a lighthearted evening. The tour commences promptly at 7 pm, ensuring an atmosphere of intrigue and mystery as you venture into the dimly lit streets of Central London. As a heads-up, some trivia is sprinkled throughout the tour, so I’d freshen up on my history before scoring some questions correctly.

The tour lasts 2 hours.

Closest Metro Stop: Barbican.

Price: From € 17.71 per person.

Meeting start point: Opposite the only exit at Barbican station.

Tickets: Serial Killers: The Blood and Tears Walk

Bonus: Chocolate Ecstasy Tour

The journey begins at one of the esteemed Hotel Chocolat locations, where you will be greeted by local guide and chocolate expert extraordinaire Jennifer Earle. Upon arrival, you will be treated to a hot chocolate (make sure to get the chocolate whipped cream) and go downstairs to learn a bit about the history and manufacturing of chocolate and techniques to identify good quality chocolate.

Once you've acquired a newfound appreciation for the craft, it's time to venture into the vibrant neighborhoods of Soho, Piccadilly, and Mayfair. On the tour, you’ll visit several shops and get to sample late Queen Elizabeth’s favorite chocolate, sip on creamy hot cocoa from world-renounced chocolatiers, and you will also have discounts at the stores in case you want to buy souvenirs or some chocolate for later. This tour is hefty on chocolate, so be prepared to satisfy your tastebuds and be indulged.

This tour is a bit more of a splurge but a must-do if you’re a self-proclaimed chocolate connoisseur or want to be!

The tour lasts 3 hours.

Price: From €360 per private group.

Meeting start point: Hotel Chocolate (further details after the booking).

London's walking tours provide experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, a TV show fan, a food lover, or simply seeking to indulge your sweet tooth, there's a walking tour in London that will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories.

By venturing beyond the London Tube's convenience, you can uncover hidden gems, soak in breathtaking views, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere. Each walking tour offers a unique perspective, providing insights, stories, and behind-the-scenes knowledge that enhance your understanding and appreciation of London's rich history.

So step off the beaten path, embrace the open air, and let the city's abundant streets guide you on a memorable adventure. Immerse yourself in London's history, culture, flavors, and delights, creating cherished memories (all on your feet) that will last a lifetime.