— Our tours

Private tours of London

Best UK Tours offer private tours of London and other iconic destinations across the UK. Travelling in luxury transport, these small group sightseeing tours of London ensure you experience the sights and the history that England’s capital has to offer. 

— Private Tours

Private Tours of London

 You can select ready-made day tours of London, opt for an epic multi-day tour, or we can work with you to design a completely bespoke trip based on your individual wishes. You have complete flexibility on where you wish to go whilst on vacation in London, so you can return home satisfied by a truly unforgettable trip.

Get in touch today to start planning your bespoke, private tour of London. When you choose Best UK Tours, your dream adventure awaits you. 

The Shard and Tower Bridge lit at dusk above the River Thames
Aerial view of London at night, with Tower Bridge, the Thames and City Hall lit up below

— history on every corner

What to expect from our London tours

A personalised private tour of London: When you embark on a private tour, you experience an itinerary that has been especially tailored to your interests, ensuring you see and do everything you want to during your time in London, entirely at your own pace.

London’s history brought to life: Our tour guides are highly experienced and have extensive knowledge of London. On your private tour, you will receive one-on-one attention at all times including engaging stories, fascinating insights, and an immediate answer to all of your burning questions.

Luxury transport: Travel for your guided tour of London will be in total comfort in a luxurious 4-seater Mercedes E220. For larger groups or special requests, we can arrange alternative transport, including a minibus for large parties by special arrangement. We want your experience to be as comfortable as possible, so we will do all we can to accommodate your transport needs.

— London tours

Available Small Group Tours of London

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben across the Thames, with a red bus on Westminster Bridge

Full Day London Tour

Explore London’s most iconic sights and discover all of the city’s enchanting hidden gems on this London tour. Whether you want to visit historic sites like the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, and Big Ben, or catch glimpses of Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, and enjoy a river cruise, we can tailor the day to include as much or as little as you’d like. From shopping in Covent Garden and sightseeing around the city to soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Soho, this tour makes London your oyster.

Buckingham Palace behind the Victoria Memorial and beds of red summer flowers

3-Day British Odyssey

From the city of London to the towns and villages beyond its city walls, England is rich in beauty and wonder. This three day tour gives you the opportunity to experience all of England’s most iconic sites, from its grand royal grounds to its charming towns steeped in heritage. This tour combines culture, history, and scenery for a glimpse into England’s past and present.

St Paul's Cathedral at dusk seen from the Millennium Bridge, with people walking across

Harry Potter tour of London by private black cab

Experience Harry Potter's London on a private tour that brings the films to life. This is a relaxed, chauffeur-driven experience ...
Buckingham Palace behind the Victoria Memorial and beds of red summer flowers

London layover tour from Heathrow by private black cab

Transform your London layover into an unforgettable adventure with a private tour crafted specifically for travellers near Heathrow. Immerse yourself ...
The Royal Albert Hall in Kensington, with a memorial statue on the steps in front

London rock and roll tour by private black cab

Discover London’s rock and roll legacy on a private tour that guides you to the sites where iconic music was ...
Riverside houses and pubs at sunset beside the Thames at Richmond, swans on the water

Ted Lasso filming locations tour by black cab

Discover Ted Lasso's world on a private tour of Richmond upon Thames, exploring authentic locations that shaped AFC Richmond. This ...
Union Jack double-decker bus signed "Tour of London" parked on the road near Big Ben

London afternoon tea bus tour on a 1960s Routemaster

Enjoy a unique London experience, afternoon tea while sightseeing on a classic 1960s Routemaster bus. Travel through the heart of ...

— where from?

Pick up points for your sightseeing tour of London

We are able to begin your tour of London directly from your arrival in England, or from your London hotel. Whether you’re in the UK for a short while, or enjoying a longer vacation to soak up everything London has to offer, Best UK Tours make visiting London sights as convenient as possible. As well as direct-from-hotel pick ups, we can meet you at the following locations to get your London sightseeing trip started: 

  • Gatwick Airport
  • Dover Port
  • Heathrow Airport
  • Southampton Airport
  • Tilbury Port

If you’re arriving or staying elsewhere, do talk to us about the custom pick ups that are possible – we can often come and meet you at a location of your choice. 

Where our guests visit from

We count ourselves lucky to have tour guests visiting London from around the world, from our neighbours in mainland Europe, to our those travelling across the Atlantic from the USA and beyond. We are so proud to help reveal London’s magic to you no matter where you’re from; get ready to see our spectacular city. 

Tower Bridge over the Thames, with the City of London skyscrapers behind it

— why us?

Why Choose Best UK Tours for guided tours of London?

At Best UK Tours, we don’t just offer private tours and London daytrips: we craft captivating, unforgettable experiences tailored specifically to you and your interests. From the vibrant and bustling city of London to the grand royal sites that neighbour the city walls, we are dedicated to creating spellbinding memories that last a lifetime.

We are extremely proud of our passionate and knowledgeable guides who bring the beauty and serenity of London to life with true finesse. With fascinating storytelling, historical insights, and local insider tips, we can help you to gain a deeper connection to every site you visit. And with luxury transport, priority access, and smooth logistics, you will spend less time waiting and more time exploring.

We’ve proudly hosted thousands of happy travellers from across the globe. Our friendly, responsive team are here to help from the moment you reach out to us until the end of your tour and beyond, turning your travel dreams into reality.

Contact us today to start planning your perfectly tailored private London tour experience with Best UK Tours.

— Rich history

A History of London

London began as a Roman settlement called Londinium around 2,000 years ago, having been chosen for its strategic position on the River Thames. After the Romans left, London endured centuries of invasions and regrowth, becoming a key medieval trade hub.

By the 17th century, London had become the political and cultural core of England, surviving a number of challenges including the Great Fire of 1666. London subsequently underwent a massive transformation through the Industrial Revolution, both for better and for worse. Most notably during this time period, London made huge leaps in terms of transportation, infrastructure, and public health.

20th century London saw war, reconstruction, and vast immigration, shaping its current identity: today, London is a dynamic and diverse global capital with so much to offer. Its rich and complex historical legacy has been well preserved over time, offering tourists and visitors an incredible and vibrant experience.

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament above the Thames at sunset, boats moored along the embankment
London Underground train with red doors at an open-air platform beside a brick viaduct

— Choose London

Book your private guided tour of London

London is one of the world’s most iconic and dynamic cities, offering a captivating range of history and culture. From ancient landmarks like the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey to world-renowned museums, theatres, and royal palaces, the city is overflowing with unforgettable experiences.

To immerse yourself in this vibrant and bustling capital city, reach out to us today to start planning your bespoke, private tour of London.

— What to do when i’m there?

What to See and Do in London

The Tower of London seen from across the Thames, the White Tower rising above its outer walls

Tower of London

Steeped in 900 years of history, especially from the Tudor period, this impressive castle is home to the Crown Jewels and would make a fascinating trip for lovers of history.

Houses of Parliament and Big Ben lit at dusk across the Thames, a riverboat passing

The Thames

The River Thames cuts through the heart of London, offering views of landmarks like Tower Bridge, Shakespeare’s Globe, and St Paul’s Cathedral. It makes a scenic spot for walking or taking a river cruise.

Elizabeth Tower and Big Ben rising above the Houses of Parliament in London under a cloudy sky

Big Ben

One of London’s most iconic landmarks, Big Ben is the bell inside the Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament. It’s a must-see for visitors and a simply unmissable part of the London skyline.

Downing Street SW1 street sign on the white stone wall of a Westminster building

10 Downing Street

10 Downing Street is the official residence of the Prime Minister, located in the heart of Westminster. While you can’t go inside, the black door is an iconic part of British politics.

London Underground roundel sign at Piccadilly Circus, with the illuminated advertising screens behind

Piccadilly Circus

This iconic, bustling square is filled with bright lights and big screens. It’s a lively spot to take in the city’s energy and is surrounded by theatres, shops, and restaurants.

London shopping street strung with Union Jack flags, busy with shoppers and pavement cafes

Leicester Square

Known for its opulent hotels and grand theatres, Leicester Square is the place to be for entertainment lovers. It’s also a lovely area for grabbing a bite or people-watching.

Covent Garden Market hall in London, people at cafe tables beneath the iron and glass roof

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is vibrant spot full of shops, street performers, and lively markets. It’s perfect for a casual stroll, dining, or enjoying a show at the Royal Opera House.

Illuminated red Soho neon sign on the side of a brick building in London at night

Soho

A vibrant and eclectic neighbourhood that comes alive both day and night, Soho is known for its buzzing nightlife, diverse restaurants, and creative atmosphere.

— a typical tour itinerary

Full Day London Tour Itinerary

Stop 1: Tower of London Excursion


Begin the day with a visit to the historic Tower of London. Explore the ancient fortress, learn about its fascinating history, and marvel at the Crown Jewels for a truly iconic start to your London adventure.

Stop 2: Scenic River Tour


Next, enjoy a picturesque river tour along the Thames. Take in stunning views of London’s skyline, including landmarks such as the Tower Bridge, Shakespeare’s Globe, and St Paul’s Cathedral.

Stop 3: London Landmarks


Discover some of the city’s most famous sights, from the grandeur of Big Ben to the stately 10 Downing Street and the vibrant lights of Piccadilly Circus. This stop is perfect for soaking up the classic London atmosphere.

Stop 4: Leicester Square Experience


Immerse yourself in the lively energy of Leicester Square, the heart of London’s entertainment district. Known for hosting the UK’s biggest film premieres, this spot is a must for movie enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.

Stop 5: Covent Garden

Wander through the bustling streets of Covent Garden, famed for its eclectic mix of boutique shops, artisan markets, and street performers. It’s an ideal place to shop, explore, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Finale: Soho Exploration

Conclude your day in the lively neighbourhood of Soho. Known for its dynamic dining scene, quirky bars, and unique charm, this is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy great food, and reflect on your day’s adventures.

— FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best day tour of London?

For a first visit, a full day covering the Tower, Westminster, the South Bank and the parks is hard to improve on, because it puts the city in order before you explore on your own. Returning visitors usually do better with something narrower: a themed black cab tour, or a day built around one interest. Our full day London tour is the broad option.

How many places can I also visit outside of London?

That depends on your itinerary and your pacing preferences. Windsor, Hampton Court and Oxford all sit within easy reach, so a faster paced day can add two or three of them to a morning in the city. A slower one usually means one place done properly. The car is yours either way, so the decision can wait until the day itself. Our private day trips from London page sets out the ready-made options.

Are London black cab tours worth it?

For the right kind of day, very much so. A black cab gets down streets a coach cannot reach and stops where a coach cannot stop, and London cabbies know the city in a way that takes years to learn. They suit themed tours particularly well, which is why ours run that way. The Harry Potter film location tour is the one guests ask for most.

Can you tour London during a layover at Heathrow?

Yes, if the layover is long enough to be worth leaving the airport for. The practical constraint is the return journey and security, so the day has to be planned backwards from your onward flight rather than forwards from landing. Our London layover tour from Heathrow is built for exactly that, with a black cab collecting you at the terminal.

Which private London tours work well for families?

Themed tours tend to work best with children, because a story holds attention where a list of buildings does not. The Harry Potter film locations are the obvious draw, and an afternoon tea bus tour turns lunch into the attraction. Because the vehicle is private you can also cut the day short without asking anyone’s permission. Our post on touring with children covers how we pace family days.

Which royal palaces can you visit in and around London?

Buckingham Palace opens its State Rooms in the summer months, the Tower of London and Kensington Palace are open year round, and Hampton Court and Windsor Castle sit a short drive outside the city. A private car makes the outlying two straightforward in a single day. Our guide to places to learn about the monarchy sets out what each one offers.

Is food included?

Light refreshments are provided for the journey, all you need to do is have money available to buy lunch – there are so many amazing foods to try in London!

How much does a private tour of London cost?

Costs are worked out case by case, because a half day in the centre and a day that reaches Windsor are not the same job. What moves the figure is how long the tour runs, how far we travel and what we book on your behalf. Our ready-made London tours give you a sense of the range, and you will have a firm quote before anything is confirmed.

What is the cancellation policy for London tours?

The site’s refunds policy says most tours can be cancelled free of charge up to 14 days before the tour, while some products may have their own terms. Use the cancellation terms in the booking confirmation for the specific tour.

Do you collect from London airports and cruise ports?

Collection depends on the airport or port, destination, date and vehicle availability. Send the flight or sailing details and we will confirm the pickup arrangements in writing.

— What our tour clients say

Customer Reviews