London: Landmarks & Secrets Bike Tour with Pub & Street Art

If you’re looking to see the best of London without wasting hours on foot or stuck in traffic, a guided bike tour could be just what you need. This particular experience, the London: Landmarks & Secrets Bike Tour with Pub & Street Art, has earned a glowing reputation, with an impressive 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 290 reviews. It promises a lively mix of sightseeing, local culture, and a touch of creativity—all in just three and a half hours.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it uses handmade English Pashley bicycles, blending style with practicality. Second, it combines the must-see sights like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square with lesser-known gems and secret spots most travelers never find. Lastly, it offers an authentic touch of London’s pub culture and street art scene, making it an experience you can feel proud of sharing.

The one thing to consider? If you’re not comfortable cycling in busy city traffic or have mobility issues, this might be less suitable. However, for most travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure, this tour really hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for curious travelers wanting an active, engaging way to start their London trip—whether you’re a history buff, a street art fan, or just eager to see the city from a different perspective.

Good To Know

• Authentic experience with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
• Balanced itinerary covering iconic sights and hidden corners.
• Fun inclusion of pub culture and street art activities.
• Comfortable, stylish bikes that make cycling easier and more enjoyable.
• Ideal for active travelers aged 12 and up who appreciate a bit of history and local flavor.
• Great value at around $87.55, considering the sights, activities, and inclusive elements.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at Tally Ho Experiences in Lambeth, a convenient spot near Lambeth North and Waterloo stations. The meeting process is straightforward, and the staff is helpful with gear, including optional helmets and even tweed flat caps for that classic London look. You’ll get a quick briefing, then hop on a stylish handmade Pashley bicycle—these bikes are not only beautiful but designed for city riding, making the experience smooth and comfortable.

Exploring Westminster and Royal London

The route kicks off by crossing the River Thames into Westminster, where you’ll feel the buzz of the city right from the start. The tour navigates through lesser-known backstreets of Westminster, giving you a taste of the real London away from tourist crowds.

A highlight is the photo stop at Lambeth Palace Road, where you can snap some shots before heading into the core of Westminster. Expect to glide past landmarks like Big Ben, with the guide sharing stories about the history and architecture behind the clock tower. Though you’ll pass by Big Ben, the tour focuses on the quieter side streets, giving you a more authentic and less crowded view.

Royal Landmarks and Iconic Sights

Next, you’ll visit St John’s Smith Square and Dean’s Yard, historically significant yet often overlooked spots. A quick photo stop here lets you appreciate these architectural gems.

The ride then takes you past Westminster Abbey, where you’ll learn intriguing tidbits about the historic church—though the tour doesn’t include entry, the exterior views are enough to spark curiosity.

St James’s Park is a tranquil, green oasis for a short pedal through, and if the timing aligns, you might spot the Queen’s Guards at Buckingham Palace in their striking uniforms, a true highlight for many.

Crossing into the area around Admiralty Arch and Trafalgar Square, you’ll get photo opportunities of London’s most famous landmarks, with plenty of time to capture the moment and ask your guide questions.

Relaxing Break at a Historic Pub

A welcome pause comes at Lamb & Flag, the oldest pub in Covent Garden, where you can try a refreshing pint of real ale—a highlight for many reviews. This break isn’t just about the drinks; it’s a chance to mingle, swap stories, and soak in the lively pub atmosphere. Several reviewers mentioned that the pub stop could be earlier in the tour, but most found it a perfect way to relax before heading into street art territory.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Street Art and Creative Expression

The tour’s final flourish is the street art segment at Leake Street, a famous graffiti zone. Here, participants are encouraged to channel their inner Banksy with spray paint provided on-site. This part of the experience is both fun and memorable, especially since many reviewers have commented on how engaging and interactive it is. One reviewer noted that “the spray painting was my favorite part,” and others appreciated the opportunity to unleash their creativity in a famous urban art hotspot.

End of the Tour and Reflections

The route loops back to the starting point, passing by Westminster Bridge for one last photo stop. After 3.5 hours of riding, sightseeing, and socializing, most agree that this tour offers fantastic value—a well-paced mix of history, culture, and fun activities.

Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviews praise guides like Jasper, Olivia, Stewart, and Katie for their humor, storytelling ability, and local insights. They make history engaging and answer questions with ease, making the experience feel personalized.

Stunning Views and Unique Stops: You’ll see London’s iconic sights but also discover hidden corners, wartime bunkers, quiet backstreets, and street art spots that give you a deeper appreciation of the city’s layers.

Authentic Experiences: The pub break at an historic tavern and the graffiti activity add local flavor that many travelers miss if they stick to standard sightseeing. These elements create memorable moments and give you stories to tell back home.

Great Value for Money: For around $87.55, the tour offers a comprehensive route, quality bikes, a friendly guide, and engaging activities. Considering the inclusion of street art spray paint and pub stops, it’s a well-rounded choice for those wanting more than just the typical sightseeing bus.

Active and Fun: Covering a lot of ground on bikes means you get a workout and see more in less time. The bikes are suitable for city riding, and the route is designed to avoid heavy traffic where possible.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, culture, and social activities. It’s perfect if you want to kick off your London visit with a lively, engaging experience that balances famous landmarks with hidden treasures.

It’s especially suited for those comfortable on a bike and eager to explore the city at a relaxed pace. Families with teenagers might find it appealing, though children under 12 are not suited for this experience. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an authentic taste of London’s vibrant spirit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really, as all bicycles are adult or teen-sized, and the tour is geared towards those comfortable cycling in urban environments.

What should I bring?
Just your curiosity and a camera. Rain ponchos are provided if the weather turns, but you might want to bring sunglasses or sunblock depending on the forecast.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with starting times available based on the day.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included, along with optional tweed flat caps for a classic London look.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, with a full refund available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Do I need prior cycling experience?
Not necessarily, but comfort riding on city streets is recommended. The route is designed to be manageable for most participants.

Is the tour rain or shine?
Yes, the experience takes place regardless of weather, so dress accordingly. Rain ponchos are provided in case of showers.

The London: Landmarks & Secrets Bike Tour offers a delightful way to see a side of London many visitors miss. It balances the must-see sights with secret spots, all wrapped in a fun, interactive package. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and humor, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The inclusion of a pub stop and street art activity adds layers of local flavor, making it more than just a sightseeing tour—it’s a lively introduction to London’s vibrant culture. The bikes are comfortable and stylish, perfect for city riding, and the route covers a good mix of historic and modern landmarks.

For those who enjoy active sightseeing, engaging storytelling, and authentic experiences, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a fantastic choice for first-timers wanting an energetic overview and for seasoned visitors eager to discover London’s lesser-known corners.

Overall, if you want a lively, memorable, and well-organized introduction to London that combines history, culture, and fun, this bike tour could be exactly what you’re looking for.

You can check if your dates are available here: