Step into London’s history through carefully selected tours that make the most of your time and money. The Natural History Museum’s guided tours stand out for their expert commentary and behind-the-scenes access. Walking tours focused on wartime London and ancient witchcraft stories offer rich historical content without tourist traps, while intimate pub crawls combine authentic local watering holes with fascinating neighborhood tales.
I especially love the small-group format of these experiences – you’re never lost in a crowd of 50. The guides are top-notch locals who know their stuff and speak clear English. For history lovers, the wartime tours through Churchill’s bunkers and East End bomb sites are particularly moving. Meanwhile, pub tours through historic taverns give you both good beer and great stories about London’s colorful past.
Check out these tried-and-tested London tours that bring history to life:
Good To Know
Highly recommended historical tours in London include guided tours of the Natural History Museum and World War II-themed tours with skip-the-line access.
Themed walking tours, such as the London Witches and History Walking Tour, offer engaging storytelling and exploration of significant historical sites.
Historical pub tours provide an immersive experience, blending local beer culture with the rich history of London’s renowned pubs.
Authentic British food tours allow visitors to sample classic dishes and beverages while learning about the cultural significance of the local cuisine.
Booking in advance, considering group sizes, and researching tour options to match personal interests can ensure a fulfilling and personalized historical experience in London.
London History Taxi Tours
One of the best ways to explore London’s rich history is through London History Taxi Tours. This unique offering provides a private, customizable tour led by knowledgeable local drivers.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the tour covers iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square, the House of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London.
Travelers enjoy flexible timing, private transportation in official London taxis, and the convenience of included entrance fees and pickup/drop-off within 4.5 kilometers of Trafalgar Square.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, stroller users, and those with service animals, making it suitable for most visitors, including infants.
Customer reviews consistently praise the guides and personalized experiences, ensuring an exceptional historical exploration of London.
Read our full review: London History Taxi Tours Review
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The Natural History Museum London Guided Tour – Semi-Private 8ppl Max
Visitors eager to explore the captivating history and geology of the Natural History Museum in London can opt for the semi-private guided tour, which caps the group size at a maximum of 8 participants.
Recommended by 98% of travelers with an impressive 5.0 overall rating, this tour offers a personalized experience as guests explore the museum’s 80 million-piece collection.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides opportunities to hear stories and learn facts not typically encountered.
While the museum may have occasional closures, alternatives are provided, and increased security measures can result in lines even with skip-the-line access.
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London Witches and History Walking Tour
The London Witches and History Walking Tour takes participants on an engaging exploration of the city’s dark past, delving into the real-life stories of suspected witches from centuries ago.
Earning a Badge of Excellence and a 97% recommendation rating from travelers, this tour offers an immersive experience. Guided by knowledgeable and enthusiastic “witches,” the small group size allows for personal interaction as they visit landmarks, hidden gems, and Harry Potter filming locations.
While some reviews note historical inaccuracies, the tour is generally praised for its engaging storytelling, informative content, and enjoyable atmosphere.
Priced at ₹1,770.30 per person, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with various afternoon options to fit into visitors’ schedules.
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Private Tour of Londons Historic Pubs
Discover London’s vibrant pub culture on this private three-hour walking tour that explores the city’s historic watering holes.
Led by a beer expert, you’ll visit four renowned pubs renowned for their locally brewed ales and learn about England’s beer heritage.
Hear captivating anecdotes that blend beer and history as you pass iconic monuments.
The tour is highly recommended, with 100% of travelers praising the knowledgeable and charismatic guide.
You’ll enjoy a warm welcome and feel like an old friend as you savor the unique pubs you wouldn’t have found on your own.
With alcoholic beverages and food included, this is a perfect introduction to London’s rich pub culture.
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Private Guided Tour of Natural History Museum – Skip the Line
Embarking on a private guided tour of London’s renowned Natural History Museum, visitors gain exclusive access through the skip-the-line privilege, bypassing the often lengthy queues.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 27 reviews and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour provides an exceptional experience.
Led by the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide Damiano, the tour is praised for its informative and engaging nature, suitable for all ages.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour offers the use of headphones and ends back at the meeting point in South Kensington.
Priced from $181.61 per group (up to 6), this private guided tour of the Natural History Museum is a must-do for history enthusiasts visiting London.
Read our full review: Private Guided Tour of Natural History Museum – Skip the Line Review
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Small-Group Tour: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London
Traversing the historical pubs of London, this small-group tour offers an immersive experience for discerning travelers.
With a 100% recommendation rate from over 6,470 reviews, the tour takes visitors to at least four traditional drinking establishments, often missed by the crowds.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you will discover the city’s rich drinking culture and pub history while sampling local brews.
The tour explores the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, Fleet Street’s literary legacy, and Covent Garden, providing recommendations for further exploration.
Catering to adults only, this half-day outing promises an engaging and memorable journey through London’s storied watering holes.
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World War II History in London Private Guided Tour
Amidst the pulsating energy of London’s historical pubs, the narrative shifts to uncover the capital’s World War II legacy on this private guided tour.
Delving into Britain’s wartime experiences, this 5-star experience offers skip-the-line access to the renowned Churchill War Rooms, along with admission to the Imperial War Museum.
Catering to various interests, the tour’s duration can be tailored from 2 to 7 hours, ensuring an immersive and personalized exploration.
With a wheelchair-accessible itinerary and knowledgeable guides fluent in your chosen language, this tour promises an engaging and insightful journey through London’s WWII history.
Positive reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and the overall enjoyment of the experience, making this a must-consider option for history enthusiasts.
Read our full review: World War II History in London Private Guided Tour Review
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A Day at the Museum – Natural History Museum London
Enjoy the captivating world of natural history at the renowned Natural History Museum in London.
This private tour offers an expert-guided exploration of the museum’s vast collection of over 70 million artifacts, including impressive exhibitions on dinosaurs, mammals, and insects.
Ideal for groups and families, the tour efficiently navigates the highlights, bringing the exhibits to life through the guide’s expertise.
Enjoy the flexibility of hotel pickup or meeting at the museum, and take advantage of wheelchair accessibility and hygiene measures like hand sanitizers and masks.
With a 4.0 rating and free cancellation, this tour provides a hassle-free and enlightening experience at one of London’s premier cultural institutions.
Read our full review: A Day at the Museum – Natural History Museum London Review
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2-Hour Private LGBTQ History Tour of London With a Licensed Guide
Set out on a captivating 2-hour private LGBTQ+ history tour through the Bloomsbury district of London, led by a knowledgeable and licensed guide.
Discover over three centuries of LGBTQ history and culture, learning about influential artists, writers, and philosophers who left their mark.
The personalized experience caters to groups of up to 15 people, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as allowance for service animals.
After the tour, enjoy refreshments at the nearby Fitzroy Tavern.
With an overall 5.0-star rating from 8 reviews, this tour offers an educational and enjoyable exploration of London’s vibrant LGBTQ heritage.
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Private Group: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London
Alternatively, visitors can opt for a captivating private group tour that explores London’s historical pubs and landmarks.
This half-day pub crawl and walking tour invites guests to discover the city’s rich history through the lens of its atmospheric watering holes. Highlights include stops at St. Paul’s Cathedral, St. Brides Church, and the iconic Temple Inn, with opportunities to purchase drinks and learn about cask ales, gin, and pub lore.
Tailored to the group’s interests, the tour is led by knowledgeable and engaging guides who bring the past to life with humor and personal anecdotes.
With a 5.0 rating from over 470 reviews, this experience is a highly recommended addition to any London itinerary.
Read our full review: Private Group: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London Review
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Natural History Museum London – Private Guided Museum Tour
This private guided tour of the Natural History Museum in London provides visitors with an exclusive opportunity to uncover the wonders of the natural world.
Lasting 2 hours, the tour is conducted by highly praised guides who engage guests with interactive storytelling and efficient navigation through the museum’s busy spaces.
Visitors can explore the museum’s vast collection of specimens and exhibits, with the guide offering valuable insights and making the science engaging and enjoyable.
Wheelchair and stroller-friendly, the tour is ideal for families and individuals alike, though some may find the price point higher than self-guided options.
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Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of Londons Fiery History
Stepping away from the Natural History Museum’s wonders, this walking tour immerses visitors in over 2,000 years of London’s tumultuous past.
“Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of London’s Fiery History” guides travelers through the city’s most iconic landmarks, uncovering the untold stories that have shaped its dramatic transformation.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 160 reviews, this small-group tour offers personalized attention and unique insights not found in guidebooks.
History buffs can explore Roman ruins, Blitz bombings, and even encounter the ghost of Anne Boleyn, all while getting closer to landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral.
The tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation and rescheduling, makes it an ideal choice for discovering London’s fiery history.
Read our full review: Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: A Walking Tour of Londons Fiery History Review
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Small Group Covent Garden Historic Pub Tour in London
Amidst the vibrant energy of Covent Garden, the Small Group Covent Garden Historic Pub Tour in London offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich pub heritage.
With a maximum of 14 travelers, this highly-rated 5-star tour takes guests on a journey through the historic pubs of the area, led by the knowledgeable and animated guide, Rachel.
The tour includes stops at iconic establishments like The Coal Hole on The Strand, allowing participants to enjoy the unique pub culture.
Praised for its fun and informative experience, the tour is particularly helpful for Americans seeking to better understand London’s legendary pub scene.
Read our full review: Small Group Covent Garden Historic Pub Tour in London Review
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The Authentic British Food and History Tour (Try Many British Foods)
Travelers on The Authentic British Food and History Tour in London can expect an immersive exploration of the city’s renowned culinary heritage.
This small-group experience, limited to a maximum of 15 participants, showcases quintessential British classics like sausage rolls, fish and chips, and artisanal cheeses. Knowledgeable guides provide personalized attention, offering insights into the history and traditions behind each dish.
The tour includes a full meal with various samples, as well as alcoholic beverages, coffee/tea tastings, and breakfast treats like scones and bacon sandwiches.
Accessible to wheelchair users and stroller-friendly, the tour earns consistently positive reviews for its food variety, engaging content, and enthusiastic guides.
Read our full review: The Authentic British Food and History Tour (Try Many British Foods) Review
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London Historical Pub Tour: Traditional British Food & Ales
The London Historical Pub Tour: Traditional British Food & Ales offers an immersive journey through the city’s centuries-old drinking establishments, where guests savor quintessential British fare and libations.
Over the course of three hours, a maximum of 12 participants visit four iconic pubs, sampling local specialties like pork pies, fish and chips, and Scotch eggs, accompanied by regional ales and ciders.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour showcases London’s rich pub culture and culinary heritage.
With high ratings and positive reviews highlighting the engaging experiences, this tour provides an authentic taste of the city’s history and traditions.
Read our full review: London Historical Pub Tour: Traditional British Food & Ales Review
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Landmarks & Gems: London Bike Ride Historic Pub Graffiti
This comprehensive Landmarks & Gems: London Bike Ride + Historic Pub + Graffiti tour offers an exhilarating and immersive experience, allowing participants to discover the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems.
With a highly-rated local guide, cyclists explore iconic landmarks, stop at a historic pub frequented by Charles Dickens, and even create their own graffiti masterpiece in the renowned Graffiti Tunnel.
The tour includes a hand-built British bicycle, optional safety gear, and storage for personal belongings.
Suitable for most travelers aged 12 and above, this 5-star experience showcases London’s diverse offerings through an engaging, multi-faceted adventure.
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City of London: Tales and Legends of the Historic Center
For those seeking to unravel the captivating history and lore of London’s city center, the City of London: Tales and Legends of the Historic Center tour offers an immersive experience.
Starting from the Leonardo Royal London City hotel, this highly-rated 5.0 tour takes participants on a journey through the iconic landmarks and hidden gems of the historic City of London.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares fascinating tales and legends that bring the area’s rich past to life.
Accessible to all, the tour culminates at the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the city’s storied heritage.
Priced at $28.54 per person, this tour is a must-do for any visitor interested in London’s captivating history.
Read our full review: City of London: Tales and Legends of the Historic Center Review
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London Beatles History Small-Group Half-Day Tour
Embarking on a captivating journey through London’s Beatlemania, the Beatlemania! small-group walking tour immerses guests in the rich history and cultural legacy of the Fab Four.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the morning tour explores key landmarks, including the iconic Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, and the legendary Abbey Road Studios.
Visitors will also explore the Swinging Sixties by strolling along the vibrant Carnaby Street.
With a maximum of 6 participants, the tour offers a personalized experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the city’s Beatles-related ambiance.
Priced at a starting rate of $19.46, this half-day exploration of London’s Beatlemania is a must-do for music enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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Soho Music & Historic Pubs Tour
Immersing guests in the vibrant musical heritage and storied pub culture of London’s Soho district, the Soho Music & Historic Pubs Tour offers an enchanting journey through the neighborhood’s iconic venues.
With an impressive 1,390 reviews and 100% traveler recommendation, the small-group tour explores sites frequented by legendary musicians, artists, and actors, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Mozart.
Travelers will hear captivating tales about influential figures like Karl Marx and Marilyn Monroe, and discover the recording location of the iconic “Hey Jude.”
Praised for its engaging guides and entertaining storytelling, the tour provides an immersive experience blending music history, local culture, and lively pub visits.
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Historic London Pub Tour
Delving into London’s storied past, the Historic London Pub Tour takes participants on an engaging exploration of the city’s iconic watering holes.
With a knowledgeable local guide, the 2-hour walking tour visits 20 travelers at a time, beginning at Chancery Lane Station and concluding at the renowned Lamb & Flag in Covent Garden.
Along the way, guests sample a half-pint of beer while learning about the fascinating history and colorful stories behind these beloved pubs.
Highly recommended for those interested in London’s rich heritage and vibrant pub culture, the tour offers an immersive experience, complete with insightful commentary and an enjoyable, convivial atmosphere.
Read our full review: Historic London Pub Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Advance Notice Is Required to Book a Tour?
Typically, most historical tours in London require at least a few days’ advance notice to book. However, some popular tours may need to be reserved weeks or even months in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tours?
Most historical tours in London don’t have age restrictions, but some may have requirements for young children. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the tour is suitable for all members of your group.
Can Tours Be Customized to Suit Specific Interests or Needs?
Many tour operators allow customers to customize tours to suit their specific interests and needs. Customers can often request focus on particular historical periods, landmarks, or themes, providing a more personalized experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Various Tour Options?
Most tour companies offer flexible cancellation policies, allowing customers to cancel or reschedule their tours with little or no penalty, often up to 24-48 hours before the tour date. Specific policies vary, so customers should check the details when booking.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for Multiple Tours?
Many tour companies offer package deals and discounts for booking multiple tours. These can provide significant savings, making it more affordable to explore a city’s rich history through a variety of guided experiences.
The Sum Up
London offers an array of captivating historical tours that explore the city’s rich past. From guided walks through iconic landmarks to immersive pub experiences, these tours provide an engaging and informative way to uncover London’s fascinating heritage. Whether you’re intrigued by witches, music legends, or the city’s historic center, there’s a tour that caters to your interests and ensures a memorable exploration of London’s storied past.