london bridge on london private tours

14 Best London Private Tours to Take in 2023

If you’re planning a trip to London and want to make the most of your time in this incredible city, then why not consider a London private tour?

Are London private tours worth it?

With so much history, culture, and hidden gems to discover, a private tour guide in London is the perfect way to explore at your own pace while having an expert guide by your side.

Whether you’re into iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace or prefer off-the-beaten-path neighbourhoods and local haunts, these private tours London has to offer are amazing!

Having spent four days in London on a city break from Paris, I wish I would have taken a private London tour guide. Don’t make the same mistake I did!

Instead, take one of these best private tours in London!

Elevate your experience and get ready for an unforgettable adventure as I share these fun-filled private tours of London England!

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4 Top Walking Tours by Locals London

1. Welcome a Private Tour London with a Local Guide

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  2 to 6 hours

Embark on a London walking tour with an enthusiastic guide who will unveil the city’s hidden gems, ensuring you live it like a true local. Choose your own adventure based on your interests and preferences.

Tour Guide London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Customized walking tour with a local guide
  • Flexibility to request a specific time for the tour
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Does not include entrance fees or activity costs
  • Does not include food and drink
  • Does not include transportation around the city
  • Children ages 3-12 will receive a 50% discount
  • Don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes and your camera

“Liam was just a wealth of information. We walked the areas around where we stayed, visited a few pubs, made our reservations for Sunday roast at a spot he recommended..it was excellent. We saw and learned so much in our 2+ hours. Great stories, knows the history and a delightful personality.

Liam is definitely a great guide and easy to see why he is successful in this business. Had a fabulous stay in London. Thanks Liam.”

Shirley of USA

Ideal for First-timers to London: Check Prices and Availability!

2. Off the Beaten Track Private City Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours

Uncover the vibrant hipster charm of London’s Shoreditch neighbourhood led by a knowledgeable local guide.

Private Tour Guide London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Neighbourhood walking tour with a local guide
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Does not include food and drink
  • Not ideal for wheelchair users or mobility limitations
  • Does not include transportation around the city
  • Don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes and your camera

“Anais was so generous with her knowledge and time – especially as it was a 34 degree day in London and it could have been hard going. She met us at the Whitechapel art gallery, and took us through laneways and markets and showed us hidden connections in Spitalfields and Shoreditch which allowed us to retrace our steps and return to vintage clothing stores, cafes and streetscapes we’d seen along the way.

We couldn’t have found our way with her. We have 3 kids (aged 11-15). They loved the street art in particular!”

Jane of Australia

Ideal tour for Hipsters: Check Prices and Availability!

3. Private Bicycle Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours

Discover London’s top sights and routes on a private bike tour. Led by a knowledgeable guide, pedal along cycle paths, past monuments, and iconic landmarks for an immersive experience of the city’s highlights.

London Private Tour Guides: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Choice of four 3-hour bike routes
  • Includes bike rental, helmet and child seats if needed
  • Personal tour guide (can select multiple languages of Dutch, French, German, and Italian)
  • Flexibility to request a specific time for the tour
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Does not include food and drink

“Our guide Birgit gave us a great day in London. The private tour in German with our two children aged 11 and 14 was just right for our family. We were able to visit London highlights and get to know lesser-known places. Highly Recommended!”

Claudia of Switzerland

Ideal for families: Check Prices and Availability!

4. Notting Hill, Downtown & Markets Private Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours

Explore the vibrant and colourful Notting Hill and Soho neighbourhoods. Delight in the flavours of Britain with a pastry and coffee from a traditional bakery, and uncover the treasures of the renowned Portobello Market along the way.

London Guided Tour: What’s Included & Important Details

  • English-speaking local guide
  • British pastry and coffee or tea
  • Metro tickets
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • If you have children, just let the local guide know and they will tailor it for them

“Micheal was the best tour guide I have ever had. He was so informative and taught us so much about London. He called me the day prior to confirm meeting spot and time.

The tour hit all the right parts of London and Micheal told us a lot of history and showed us parts of London you would never find on your own. I highly recommend the private tour. It’s well worth the money. We had a family of 5 and it was perfect.”

Stephanie of USA

Ideal for hidden gem seekers: Check Prices and Availability!

4 Best London Private Tours by Car

1. Beatles’ Magical Tour by Black Cab

⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours

Trace the footsteps of the Beatles from the comfort of an iconic black cab. Delve into the rich history of the Fab Four, and immerse yourself in their lives as you witness the places they called home, where they created their masterpieces, and where their melodies filled the air.

Private Car Tours London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Transportation in an iconic London taxi cab
  • English-speaking registered guide (Blue Badge, City of London or City of Westminster)
  • Photo stops at all major attractions
  • Pick-up and drop-off at central London hotels
  • Does not include any entrance fees
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Does not include food and drink
  • Wheelchair accessible

“Greg is extremely knowledgeable about the Beatles. His presentation was very informative and enjoyable. It was a pleasure taking part in his tour. There were so many details that he showed how much of the London music scene of that time were interconnected.

He made our stay in London worthwhile.”

Lynn of USA

A must for music lovers: Check Prices and Availability!

2. Custom Private Tour by Car

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  4 to 8 hours

Experience London’s top attractions in the luxury of a private car tour tailored to your preferences. Choose your tour duration and route, ensuring a personalized adventure.

Enjoy the convenience of being picked up directly from Heathrow Airport or your central London hotel, making your exploration seamless and memorable.

Personal Tour Guide London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Pickup from hotel/accommodation or airport
  • Private car or minivan
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • English-speaking driver
  • Price is per group (up to 3 people)
  • Does not include food and drink
  • No entrance tickets

“Joe our driver was great! This private tour was one of the highlights of our vacation in London. Thank you Joe for showing us the sights, for the local tips, and for all the laughter. We hope to cross paths with you again on our visit back to London soon. Thank you!”

Michelle of USA

Ideal for a personalized experience: Check Prices and Availability!

3. James Bond London Locations Tour by Black Taxi

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours

Movie buffs get to step into the shoes of James Bond for a day during a driving tour of London’s renowned Bond movie locations, including the iconic “Skyfall.”

Cruising in an iconic London taxi, delve into the world of spies as you explore authentic sites frequented by 007, uncover hidden bunkers, and embark on a thrilling journey of espionage.

Private Guided Tours London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • An English-speaking driver is a registered guide (Blue Badge, City of London, or City of Westminster)
  • Photo stops at all the major attractions
  • Pick-up/drop-off from your central London hotel
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Price is per group (up to 6 people)
  • Does not include meals
  • Is wheelchair accessible
  • No entrance tickets

“Driver knew so much about the city that I wish we could have spent the week with him. Saw some great Bond sights, learned some great Bond trivia, fantastic pictures that he took will give us memories for a lifetime. I would rexommend this company to anyone”

William of USA

Ideal for movie buffs: Check Prices and Availability!

4. Harry Potter film locations Tour in London

⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours

Get ready to take on a magical journey through London’s Harry Potter locations aboard an iconic black taxi cab.

From Gringot’s Bank to Platform 9 ¾, trace the footsteps of the wizarding world. Follow Harry’s broomstick flight along the enchanting River Thames, all while receiving captivating tales of Potter, Hogwarts, and their fascinating lore from your guide.

Private Guided Tours London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Private tour in an iconic London taxi with pick-up/drop-off at your central London hotel
  • English-speaking guide and driver
  • Photo stops at all the major attractions
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Price is per group (up to 6 people)
  • Does not include meals
  • Is wheelchair accessible
  • No entrance tickets

“Top notch. Can only recommend. Lots of info about Harry Potter and London. We saw enchanted corners reminiscent of Potter and which hardly any normal tourist finds. Was a great experience. Not cheap but worth every penny.”

Traveller of Luxembourg

Ideal for Harry Potter fans: Check Prices and Availability!

4 Sightseeing London Tour Guides to the Top Landmarks

buckingham palace with statue on london private tours

1. Churchill War Rooms & WW2 Westminster Private Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours

History buffs get to retrace the path of Winston Churchill, the iconic British Prime Minister. Uncover the secrets of history as you venture into the underground bunkers where the strategies to defend Britain from World War II invasions were meticulously crafted.

Personal Tour Guide London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Knowledgeable guide experience in the Churchill War Rooms
  • Tickets and entry reservations to the Churchill War Rooms
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Does not include food and drink
  • Not suitable for those with mobility impairments

“Fabulous guide. She was very knowledgeable and gauging the entire three hour tour. Her introduction to the contextual circumstances of Winston Churchill was especially beneficial we also enjoyed the time we spent outside the war room, changing of the guard, a view of the house of commons and house of lords, Westminster Abbey, and the statues in the region.

The guide had an excellent knowledge of the war room, and what took place there and the pivotal figures that help Churchill.”

Abraham of USA

Ideal for WWII history buffs: Check Prices and Availability!

2. Private Landmark Tour with Professional Photographer

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  45-75 minutes

Elevate your holiday snapshots with the expertise of a professional photographer who will lead you through London’s iconic sights. Let your personality shine against the backdrop of Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Westminster, and Big Ben, while capturing stunning, high-quality images.

Tourist Guide in London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Professional photographer
  • Digital high-resolution pictures with editing
  • 48-hour delivery
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Does not include food and drink
  • No printed photos
  • Does not include entry to monuments
  • Not suitable for those with mobility impairments

“Zac was great, had us relaxed and laughing. Knew where to head and angles for photos we would not have got otherwise. Zac helped make great memories for us. Thank you Zac.”

Jacqueline of Australia

Ideal Instagrammers: Check Prices and Availability!

3. Secrets of Hampton Court Palace Guided Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours

Accompany your historian guide, featured on TV’s ‘Secrets of Henry VIII’s Palace,’ for an exclusive and personalized exploration of Hampton Court.

Unveil the secrets of this historical treasure during a private, custom-tailored tour crafted to your preferences.

Private Tours London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Tour with a historian guide
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • The tour will be adapted to suit all ages, interests, and abilities
  • Does not include an entrance ticket
  • Does not include food and drink
  • Does not include transportation to and from

“I loved the tour, the guide was amazing, so kind and pleasant to be around and oh my how much she knows about Hampton Court and the history around it☺️

I recommend private guide, there was a lot of people at hampton court so it was quite hectic to walk around if you don’t know where to go, it’s also very big there so if you haven’t been there before you can end up walking around without knowing what is what or where to go.

With a guide you get explained where everything is and the history around it☺️”

Traveller from USA

Ideal history and culture lovers: Check Prices and Availability!

4. Westminster Abbey Skip-the-line Entry & Guided Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.8/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  2 – 5.5 hours

Unveil the hidden mysteries of Westminster Abbey, a regal church steeped in history and the stage of coronations since 1066. Enhance your experience with this private tour of Westminster Abbey and the City of Westminster (the number of attractions depends on the selected option).

Private Tours London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Licensed expert guide speaking fluently in the chosen language (Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian)
  • Skip-the-line ticket to Westminster Abbey
  • Walking tour of the City of Westminster (only in 4 and 5.5 hour options)
  • Private car transfer with a pickup and drop-off (only in 3.5 and 5.5-hour options)
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

“Our guide, June, was amazing! It was fascinating to learn about Westminster Abby. The private tour was well worth the investment and absolutely the way to go to cut through the crowds and to get all our questions answere. We learned so much!”

Lisa of USA

History and architectural enthusiasts: Check Prices and Availability!

2 Private London Day Tours

church on private tour london

1. From London to Stonehenge, Bath & Lacock Full-Day Sunrise Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours

History and Jane Austen fans take note! Take a full-day tour to two of England’s most iconic attractions from London. Witness the breathtaking sunrise over the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge during an exclusive private viewing.

Afterward, be enchanted by the architectural wonders of Bath, where Georgian buildings harmonize with Roman baths, creating a truly immersive experience.

Tour Guide London: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Exclusive entrance to the inner circle at Stonehenge
  • Entrance to the Roman Baths Museum
  • Transportation by luxury, air-conditioned minivan or car
  • Cancel up to 8 days in advance for a full refund
  • Arrive 10 minutes prior to departure time
  • An optional walking tour to the 17th-century Sally Lunn tea room and Jane Austin Museum in Bath
  • If you are bringing a child under 3 years old, please inform at booking
  • Does not include food and drink

“We had the best day, a wonderful experience. Our guide Toby was fantastic & made the whole day fun, with lots of valuable information & anecdotes. Our driver Neil gave us a safe smooth & comfortable ride.

Stonehenge was amazing & Wendy was so knowledgable & gave us a very special experience. Breakfast was good at Lacock & what a quaint beautiful medieval village. Than to Bath in all its glory & history. Such a memorable day, Thankyou.”

Narellle of Australia

Ideal for Day Trippers: Check Prices and Availability!

2. Windsor Castle Private Half-Day Trip from London

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  4 to 5 hours

Indulge in the grandeur of regal living with a half-day excursion from London to Windsor Castle – a cherished haven of Queen Elizabeth II.

London Private Tour Guide: What’s Included & Important Details

  • Skip-the-line tickets to Windsor Castle
  • Official audio guide in your native language (German, Italian, French, English, Spanish, Russian)
  • Guided tour of castle courtyards led by an Expert Guide who is fluent in the language of your choice (5-hour option only)
  • Private car transfers with pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in London
  • Standard car (sedan) for 1-4 people or in a larger van for groups of 5 people and more. You can book a 5-people tour for a larger vehicle.
  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Does not include a guided tour of the interior castle
  • Guided tours inside Windsor Castle and St George Chapel are prohibited
  • Tip: the Changing of Guards takes place daily at 11 AM, recommend booking a tour in the morning hours
  • Does not include food and drink
  • Wheelchair accessible

Ideal for Royal Family Enthusiasts: Check Prices and Availability!

9 Reasons London Private Guided Tours Are Beneficial

  1. Personalized Itineraries: London private tours offer the flexibility to customize your itinerary according to your preferences and interests. Whether you want to explore historical landmarks, discover hidden gems, or delve into the city’s vibrant culture, a private tour allows you to tailor your experience.
  2. Expert Local Guides: With a London private tour, you’ll have the privilege of being accompanied by knowledgeable and passionate local guides. These experts are well-versed in the city’s history, architecture, and cultural heritage, providing valuable insights that enhance your visit.
  3. Skip the Crowds: One of the main advantages of opting for a private London tour is avoiding large crowds commonly found in popular tourist destinations. Your guide will take you on alternative routes and timings to ensure a more intimate experience at iconic attractions like Buckingham Palace or Tower Bridge.
  4. Flexibility & Convenience: Private tours cater to your schedule and pace rather than adhering to rigid timetables followed by group tours. You can start and end at times that suit you best while having the freedom to spend more time exploring places that captivate your interest.
  5. Access Exclusive Locations: Some attractions or experiences in London may require special permissions or reservations not easily accessible to independent travellers. A reputable private London tour guide operator can arrange visits to exclusive locations such as historic houses, royal palaces, or behind-the-scenes access at renowned theatres.
  6. Local Recommendations & Tips: Your expert tour guide for London will be happy to share insider knowledge about lesser-known cafes, restaurants with exceptional cuisine, boutique shops, or off-the-beaten-path spots worth exploring during your stay in London.
  7. Safety & Peace of Mind: Traveling with an experienced guide ensures safety and peace of mind throughout your journey in an unfamiliar city like London. They can navigate through busy areas efficiently while providing helpful advice on public transportation options and general safety precautions.
  8. Engaging Stories & Anecdotes: The best London tour guides often bring history and culture to life by sharing captivating stories, intriguing anecdotes, and lesser-known facts about London’s landmarks. These personalized narratives make the tour not only educational but also entertaining.
  9. Tailored for Families or Small Groups: If you’re travelling with your family or a small group of friends, a private tour allows everyone to actively participate and engage with the guide. This creates a more immersive experience for all members, ensuring an enjoyable time that is a bit more intimate and most times cost-effective.

FAQs About Private London Tours

What are London private tours?

London private tours are personalized guided experiences tailored to your interests and schedule. They offer exclusive access to attractions, flexible itineraries, and the expertise of a private guide.

What can I expect from a London private tour?

In a London private tour, you can expect a customized itinerary based on your preferences. You’ll have a private guide to show you around, share insights, and provide a more personalized experience.

Are London private tours expensive?

London private tours can be more expensive than group tours, but they offer personalized attention and a tailored experience. The cost varies based on the duration, attractions visited, and the expertise of the guide.

Can I choose the attractions I want to visit during a private tour?

Yes, one of the advantages of a private tour is the ability to customize your itinerary. You can choose the attractions, landmarks, and neighbourhoods you want to explore.

Can I have a private tour guide for specific interests, like history or art?

Absolutely. Private tour guides often have expertise in various subjects, such as history, art, architecture, and more. You can request a guide who aligns with your interests.

Are private tours suitable for families or small groups?

Yes, private tours are great for families and small groups. They allow you to travel together, receive personal attention, and tailor the experience to the interests of your group.

Are private tours available in languages other than English?

Yes, many private tour guides in London offer tours in languages other than English. It’s advisable to inquire about language options when booking.

Are private tours of London’s major attractions available?

Yes, private tours can cover major attractions like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum. Your guide can provide insights and historical context during your visit.

As a Holidaymaker

As you wrap up your exploration of London through private tours, you’ve glimpsed the city’s rich history and hidden gems.

But this is just the start. Uncover more by diving into other articles about London’s culture, history, and lifestyle. Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Covent Garden – there’s so much left to discover. Explore more now!

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