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Iconic. Tower bridge. Our guests see this world beating bridge each day on our famous walking tour : "See the top sights of London" https://www.londontopsightstours.com #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #londonthingstodo #bbctravel #england #visitlondon #londonisopen #timeoutlondon #beautifuldestinations #mysecretlondon #amazinglondon #greatbritain #historiclondon #uk (at Tower Bridge) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsdkvcmnIiH/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1shlxnstjch3m

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St Paul's Cathedral. Incredible architecture & surrounded by modern buildings. Located on the edge of London's famous square mile Our guests take our walking tour a d then enter this amazing place Https://www.londontopsightstours.com #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #stpauls #squaremile #thisislondon #bbctravel #uk #england #visitlondon #londonisopen #timeoutlondon #beautifuldestinations #mysecretlondon (at St. Paul's Cathedral) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bscy4DKHRyK/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1n7mphl6hjaaf

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The Southbank, one of the best areas of London. Street art = Shakespeare Street artist = our favorite chap. Music & Fire! We walk through this area everyday with our guests! Https://www.londontopsightstours.com #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #southbank #shakespeare #theglobe #theshard #southwark #londonbridge #londonisamazing #amazinglondon (at South Bank London) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bsch_00H2xP/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=irb0crwrbciw

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Parliament and palaces tour group. Finishing at Westminster. In the background is our favorite King : Richard 1st aka The Lionheart Https://www.londontopsightstours.com #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #westminster #Downingstreet #whitehall #londonarchitecture #queenslifeguard #britishmonarchy #westminster #kingsofengland #richard1st #lionheart #housesofparliament #westminsterpalace (at Palace of Westminster) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsZ_Du2nrlM/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1oo3dhwizjlim

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Queens Life Guard. Leaving Horse Guard parade on their way to Buckingham Palace We see them everyday on our walking tour of London Https://www.londontopsightstours.com #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #westminster #Downingstreet #whitehall #londonarchitecture #queenslifeguard #britishmonarchy #queenofengland (at Horse Guards) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsZ-UmIHugl/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=xgtodg785npo

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Showing guests the best Potter filming locations in London. Happy & warm(ish) group! https://www.londontopsightstours.com #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #westminster #harrypotterLondon #harrypotter #harrypottermovies #fantasticbeasts (at Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) https://www.instagram.com/p/BsUw_Sln2ZG/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=12fg660501kef

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Love the fact that my country is a true democracy Brexit demonstration at the feet of Winston Churchill at Parliament Square in Central Westminster Photo take whilst waiting for guests who had booked a private tour of the area https://www.londontopsightstours.com #brexit #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #westminster #Downingstreet #whitehall #londonarchitecture #churchill #democracy #unitedkingdom #greatbritain #rulebritania #parliamentsqaure #housesofparliament (at Parliament Square) https://www.instagram.com/p/BrANcTYHZUq/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=12r3de9g1jhus

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Home of the prime minster! We walk past Downing street twice a day on our top sights of London walking tour!! https://www.londontopsightstours.com #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #westminster #Downingstreet #whitehall #londonarchitecture #queenslifeguard #britishmonarchy #westminster #bestphoto #londonthingstodo (at Downing Street) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bq9mIf1n2dF/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=qhfqro30csby

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One of the best photo spots for our daily walking tour! Horse guard parade on Whitehall, Westminster. https://www.londontopsightstours.com #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #westminster #Downingstreet #whitehall #londonarchitecture #queenslifeguard #britishmonarchy #westminster #bestphoto #londonthingstodo (at Horse Guards Parade) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bq8XpLJnwSi/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=55fvmh9fn771

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Westminster Abbey.. We see this incredible building twice a day on our London Top sights tour! https://www.londontopsightstours.com (at Westminster Abbey) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bq3DOHpn0Y2/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=nmpw8lmmkxfb

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A surprise guest at the Changing of the Guard the other day! - The Irish Guards’ wolfhound mascot! https://www.londontopsightstours.com #london #londontopsights #londontopsightstour #londontours #besthistorytoursinlondon #walkingtourslondon #londonattractions #westminster #Downingstreet #whitehall #londonarchitecture #queenslifeguard #britishmonarchy #queenofengland #england (at Buckingham Palace) https://www.instagram.com/p/BquKDgSH0yS/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=2v5mzsn97oz0

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Our website! Book your tour with us now!

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The Best Walks in London

London is a vast city with plenty to do for everyone! Being as big as it is, London has some wonderful walks that any visitor or city dweller can do on their own or with friends.  Here is a list of the top 10 walks you can take when visiting the English Capital.

St James's Park

St. James Park is the oldest Royal park in London. The area where St. James's Park lies today was actually once the site of a lepers hospital for women. The history of this park goes way back to King Henry VIII buying the land from Eton College in 1532, and transforming the land into his own personal deer-hunting and duck-shooting ground. King James I even introduced various exotic animals to the park in 1603, such as crocodiles and even an elephant and a camel. In the 1820s, the park got an extreme home makeover. It was remodeled in the new naturalistic style. On a walk, a visitor can now stroll alongside a curving lake, winding path,  and beautiful shrubberies all designed by landscaper John Nash in 1827. The work was commissioned by the Prince Regent, later George lV. It was part of a huge project that created many of London's best-known landmarks, including Regent's Park and Regent's Street. The park you see today is still very much as Nash designed it and there have been only small changes since. Traffic was allowed to use The Mall in 1887, and the area outside Buckingham Palace was remodelled in 1906 to make space for the Victoria Memorial.  What was once an elegant suspension bridge was built across the lake in 1857 and was replaced 100 years later by the concrete, and much safer structure we use today.  An added bonus is that this park is centrally located in Westminster, and from certain parts of your stroll, Buckingham Palace is visible.

The Capital Ring Walk 

The Capital Ring Walk  is a circular “Walk London route”. While it covers almost 78 miles, the walk is conveniently split up into 15 sections so anyone can walk at their own pace. One particular point of interest on this walk is the Abney Road Cemetery. Abney was unique in being the first arboretum to be combined with a cemetery in Europe; offering an educational attraction that was originally set in a landscape of fields and woods, some distance from the built-up boundary of London. This sight is considered to be one of the “Magnificent 7” cemeteries in London, meaning that it is one of the biggest and most beautiful cemeteries in the English capital, that sprung up during the Victorian age.

The London Wall Walk 

From around 200 AD, the shape of London was defined by one single structure; it’s massive city wall. From Tower Hill in the East to Blackfriars Station in the West, the wall stretched for two miles around the ancient City of London. In modern London, the layout is very different, but the remnants of its ancient past are still apparent. On an afternoon stroll, a walker should start at  Tower Hill, and then travel north to Aldgate and Bishopsgate where parts of the wall still steadily stand. Following the layout of the old wall, travelers should head along the north, past Moorgate, Cripplegate and West Cripplegate. In this section, there are remains of an old Roman Fort, the wall ends South towards Newgate, Ludgate and Blackfriars, and a walker will conclude in modern London, having traveled in the footsteps of its ancient citizens.

Thames Path

The Thames path may seem a little self explanatory but it is anything but ordinary. On this path, a traveler can see the greatest river in England for 184 miles from its source in the Cotswold hills to the sea and all around London. While this path stretches  79.5 miles down one side, it is divided into four sections on both the North and South Bank. Being right alongside the Thames, it also passes by some of the greatest city landmarks such as Parliament, The Globe, The London Eye, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Thames Barrier, South Bank, Hampton Court Palace, Chiswick Pier, Albert Bridge, Erith Marshes and The Royal Docks. Travelers looking for a more laid back stroll may be interested in the  Hampton Court to Albert Bridge stroll on the path. This long and winding walk will have you soaking up the Royal Palaces of Hampton and Kew, and give you the chance to enjoy an incredible view of the Thames floodplain below Richmond Hill.It’s a well sign posted route, with plenty of spots along the way for you to drink, shop, stop, or have a meal.

South Bank stroll

One of London's most iconic walking routes is South Bank. Easily accessible and on pavement for those with ability concerns, this leisurely walk will take you past The Globe Theatre and the Tate Modern, and if any should peak your curiosity, you can easily pop in and out without ever leaving the paths route.   Continuing along the river, you pass HMS Belfast, a Royal Navy battleship that served in the Second World War, and is now open to the public. After passing HMS Belfast, although you can continue along the river a short way, it's better to head away from the river through Hay's Galleria, a shopping arcade - you can't miss it, it's dominated by a vast vaguely-boat-shaped statue - onto Tooley Street, where there is a view of London Bridge.

East End Walk 

Fancy a walk in the hippest part of town? Try the East End Walk. Start at the curious dog-shaped Aldgate Pump and discover Leadenhall Market and the ever trendy Brick Lane. This walk will also take you past old Spitafeilds market, one of the most historic shopping venues in London. There has been a market on the site since 1638 when King Charles I gave a licence for flesh, fowl and roots to be sold on Spittle Fields.  After the rights to the market had seemingly lapsed during the time of the Commonwealth, the market was re-founded in 1682 by King Charles II in order to feed the burgeoning population of a new suburb of London. Now, the market is home to trendy clothes, artisanal foods, art and music. The East End walk will have something to entertain everyone in your group.

Westminster to Whitehall Walk 

If you’re spending the day taking in the sights and sounds of historic Westminster, the Westminster and Whitehall Walk is easily accessible via any route in the area. Short by walking trail standards, this three mile walk takes you past some of London’s most famous tourist attractions including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square and Number 10 Downing Street. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly in order to catch the changing of the Guard outside of Buckingham Palace.

Hampstead Heath

In contrast to the finely trimmed walks of central London, the enormous Hampstead Heath nature reserve offers a wild, untamed walking experience with great views across the city. This royal park  has over 30 ponds, huge bright rhododendron bushes bursting with colour, and a vast variety of wildlife. Running along its eastern perimeter are a three open-air public swimming pools which were originally reservoirs for drinking water from the River Fleet. To the north east of the heath is a derelict site within the conservation area comprising the grounds and mansion of the former Caen Wood Towers.This historic building, currently in disrepair, was built in 1872 for Edward Brooke, aniline dye manufacturer. In 1942 the building was taken for war service by the Royal Air Force and was used to house the RAF Intelligence. Casually strollers can feel free to explore this building if they wish.

Beautiful Hampstead Heath is one of the  biggest green areas in London – over 791 acres of woodland and meadows. So be sure to bring your walking shoes, and bug spray!

London’s City Tree Trail 

On the theme of nature in a big city, the City Tree Walk is the perfect stroll for those looking for a little green while not wishing to leave London. A short walk, the trail is designed to take in eleven significant trees found within a two-mile route of St Paul’s Cathedral and also incorporates sites of historical importance such as the London City Wall, the Barbican, Smithfields Market, the Old Bailey, Cheapside, Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral. This walk should take you roughly one hour, however if you are pushed for time, there is a shorter route of thirty minutes which can be followed on the map. There are plenty of parks and gardens along the way to sit and relax in, enjoy a picnic or have fun on the play equipment.

London’s City Tree Trail is described as a celebration of the diverse tree population and history of the Square Mile. It is also intended to highlight the importance of urban trees across the world and the need for people to continue planting and caring for them.

Jack The Ripper Walk

Founded on some of London's more sordid history, visitors of London can recreate the murderous path of one of the city's most infamous residents.

Between August and November 1888,the Whitechapel area of London was the scene of five brutal murders. The killer was dubbed 'Jack the Ripper'. Although a murderer was never found, there has been much speculation as to the identity of the killer. It has been suggested that he or she was a doctor or butcher, based on the evidence of weapons and the mutilations that occurred, which showed a knowledge of human anatomy. Many theories have been put forward suggesting individuals who might be responsible. One theory links the murders with Queen Victoria's grandson, Prince Albert Victor, also known as the Duke of Clarence, although the evidence for this is insubstantial.On this spooky walk,  visitors will stroll through the dark and narrow streets of London’s famous Victorian East End and  trace the footsteps and crime scenes of the murders Jack the Ripper committed. This walk  is not for the faint hearted.

Be sure to check out our own Jack The Ripper walking tour and all of our other exciting tours on our website! 

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Food, Sights, and Sounds on London’s  Brick Lane

Brick Lane has a lot more to offer than its proximity to the historic Jack the Ripper killings. Once a low income part of town, it recently began to bounce and become a top London tourist attraction. Whether it’s food, shopping, history or culture, brick lane has it all and is a perfect day trip in London for the whole family. Be sure to book a tour with us today! 

Brick Lane is the gem of East London. The crowds flock to this part of the city to have fun and shop in the numerous vintage stores and hip boutiques. Filled with pubs, shops and galleries, this area is a great place to hang out with friends or to stock up on items that you need. You can check out Blitz, Rokit, and East Gallery, Beyond Vintage, Brick Lane Vintage Market, Cold Winter as a few options for shopping and galleries. For food and drink, head over to Cinnamon, The Brickhouse, Big Chill or visit the Brick Lane Food Market on Sundays.Brick Lane is famous for its streets being alive with musicians, and vivid street art. It brings the streets to life at all times of the day and night. With all these options, you can easily spend a whole day on Brick Lane.

Brick lane is a rich in history as it is in sights to see. Since the 17th century, waves of immigrants have helped populate the area and develop its culture. The French Huguenots were first, and through them, the area became a centre for weaving, tailoring and the developing clothing industry. As one strolls the roads leading into brick lane, evidence of iron signs hanging over doorways indicated that a Huguenot taylor may have lived there centuries ago. The second wave of immigrants were both Irish and Ashkenazi Jew, The Sunday markets littering the brick lane area are actually derivatives of special dispensation given by the government to the Jewish community in the 19th century. At the time, there were no Sunday markets open because of the Christian observance of Sabbath. The final wave of immigrants came in the 20th century from Bengal. Many Bangladeshi immigrants to Brick Lane were from the Greater Sylhet region. These settlers helped shape Bangladeshi migration to Britain. As you walk brick lane today, the bangladeshi food stalls spill incredible aromas into the streets so be sure to stop in and see these iconic eateries!

Evident of these migrations is a The Brick Lane Mosque. The Mosque adapted with the chain of migration first being known as a christian chapel named “ La Neuve Eglise”, when the French inhabited brick lane, and later being changed into a Jewish synagogue. When the synagogue was moved to North London, the building was converted to accommodate the growing Muslim population in the 1970’s.

Among the historically relevant buildings to see on Brick Lane, this top London tourist attraction is also home to some of the best food in the Capital. Historically important to anglo-asian fusion cuisine, brick lane has an amazing array of Indian eateries lining the streets. To name a few options,  Brick lane Brasserie serves a mixture of Indian and Bangladeshi food, including fish specialties, shatkora chicken and lamb ureebisi gatta, as well as a large range of traditional curries. City Spice bills itself as the ‘King of Brick Lane’. The menu is a mix of Mughal, Bengali and classic Indian dishes with tandoori roopchanda and chana makhoni.  Meraz Café Just off Brick Lane on Hanbury Street,has a wonderful curry selection and lastly,  Dishoom shoreditich serves a unique dish called lamb raan (spiced and flame-grilled lamb leg, which also comes burger-style in a sourdough bun), while the house black daal, pav bhaji and breakfast bacon naan are also much-loved.

Besides the savory foods of India, Brick Lane is also home to the cereal killer cafe which is kid friendly and serves nostalgic american cereals in a fun setting. Also, in a throwback to Brick Lanes Jewish roots in the mid 20th century, brick lane is home to two iconic bagel shops. Both the Beigel Shop and Beigel Bake.The two shops, referred to by locals as "the white one" and "the yellow one," are known for having the best bagels in London, and a literally doors away from one another. The best part about theses two brick lane institutions are that you can enjoy lunch for roughly under £2.

No matter what you enjoy doing, eating, wearing or learning about, Brick Lane has something for the whole family to enjoy.

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10 Best Things to do in The Southbank Area

The Southbank Area of London is as rich in cultural heritage as it is in theatre, art, gourmet food, and nightlife. With so much to do an experience, we’ve compiled a short list of the best things to to in Southbank. Take a hop on over to the other side of the River and see what Southbank has to offer!

Also, be sure to check out our exciting walking tours that will take you to these sights and beyond! 

1.

SEA LIFE London Aquarium

Since 1997,  SEA LIFE London Aquarium has been home to one of Europe’s largest collections of global marine life! Guests are invited to spend the day exploring the wonders of the sea and encountering seahorses, octopus, zebra sharks,  clownfish, and even the deadly stone fish. Guests are also welcome to feed the aquariums collection of friendly stingrays all without ever having to leave the heart of the British Capital.

2.

The Coca-Cola London Eye

Hard to miss along the Thames River, the famed London eye soars above the water a 135 meters high. The Eye has 32 capsules one for each of the city's 32 boroughs, and encapsulates 25 people at a time. Riders are free to walk around the capsule during the 30 minute ride, and take in the spectacular view of London. On a clear day, a rider will be able to see for about 40 miles in each direction!

3.

National Theatre

Comprised of three separate theatres, the main national theatre was opened in 1977 and named the Olivier, after the first national theatre director, Laurence Olivier. Today, the theatres put on a collective 25 new shows a year, and is also hosts a learning centre, theatre tours, restaurants, a riverside bar and a bookshop.

4.  

Shakespeare’s Globe

A neighbor to The National Theatre is The Globe Theatre, which spherical build and straw thatched roof harkens back to the streets of Elizabethan London. Modeled after The Original Globe which stood on Southwark, Shakespeare's Globe was opened in 1997 by Actor/Director Sam Wanamaker. The Globe is most famous for its original practice Shakespeare productions, where guests can choose between a seated ticket, or a “groundling” ticket which lets you stand close to the stage just as peasants would have done at the Original Globe. While the Shakespeare season runs from the summer to early autumn, The Globe also has a winter season where guests may sit indoors in a beautiful recreation of the 17th century Blackfriars Theatre.

5.

BFI IMAX

Centrally Located just north of Waterloo station, The BFI IMAX plays host to all the latest films, as well as special screenings of classics on the UK's biggest cinema screen. Owned by the British Film Institute, BMI IMAX is open to the public, but also host to some of the biggest and most star studded film premieres in Britain.

6.

  Old Vic and Young Vic Theatre

Southbank is a great place to take the whole family because of the variety of things to do in the area. When it comes to theatre, The young Vic and The Old Vic are at the forefront of running both classical and experimental productions that everyone can enjoy. The old Vic, active since 1818 is famous for its original emphasis on the Shakespearean Repertoire. Today, the legendary theatre aims to be a surprising, unpredictable, ground-breaking, rule-breaking, independent beacon of accessible, uplifting and intimidating art.

At the Old Vic, visitors are treated to a more experimental view of theatre, and reworkings of older, more traditional shows on a modern and fresh context.

The young Vic boasts the most diverse and engaged audience in London, and high quality works at low prices.

7.

  The Cut

Located right above the Young Vic, The Cut is an independent bar that is host to some of the best dishes an artisanal cocktails in all of London. Their cocktail menu varies based on what is being put on at the theatre, but specializes in handcrafted drinks with high attention to detail. The Wine and beer list is varied with over 40 selections to choose from. As for the food, The Cut Prides itself on being all about fresh and seasonal food from organic, free range and sustainable sources.  For an added flair be sure to grab a seat on the balcony for a nice view while you eat.

8.

     Borough market

Often referred to as the most famous market in London, Borough market is located just steps away from the London Bridge tube and is host to over 100 gourmet food, and specialty stalls. A historic venue, borough market is one of the largest and oldest food markets in London,with a market on the site dating back to at least the 12th century.

9.

Tate Modern

Directly across the Millenium Bridge stands a large unassuming building that houses some of the greatest works of modern art in the whole world. With a constant rotation of new and exciting shows and exhibitions, guests will be able to experience a variety British and international  art from the 16th century to the present day. Best of all, the Tate offers free admission to all of its visitors.

10.

Southbank Centre

Finally on our list is the Southbank Centre, which opened 67 years ago as a performance space, and over time expanded to include five beautiful and diverse venues! Of them most popular venues located in South bank is Royal Festival hall, which transforms itself around Christmas time into a winter wonderland.  Royal Festival Hall produces magical family shows, markets, twinkling lights, and other seasonal delights. In the Summer, the hall is home to major exhibitions by world famous artists. The Southbank Centre has a variety of attractions and is sure to be enjoyed by the whole family.

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Visit Shakespeare's Globe in Modern London

When it comes to Shakespeare, it is hard not to think of London and the famed Globe Theatre. Originally built in 1599, The Globe saw the fabled openings of some of William Shakespeare's most iconic plays, and catered to the whims of Queen Elizabeth the first as she ruled over England, Ireland, Scotland, and France. Although a cultural hub, the original Globe often fell victim to the usual Medieval annoyances such as censorship, vandalism, and a lengthy closure due to the spread of the bubonic plague.

London Top sights offers a tour of The Globe and many other London sights, so be sure to book today! 

In 1613 The Globe Theatre burst into flames during a performance of Henry VIII as a cannon was set off as part of the staged drama. The Globe was rebuilt a short time afterward but ultimately destroyed by Puritans who disapproved of the playwright decades after he had died. For the memory of Shakespeare's Globe, all seemed lost until nearly four hundred years later when American Actor Sam Wanamakers “Globe Trust” finished the construction of “Shakespeare's Globe” along the riverside in Southbank.

The reconstruction was carefully researched so that the new building would be as faithful a replica of the original as possible, and to this day, The Globe has the first and only thatched roof permitted in London since the Great Fire of 1666. 

Today, Shakespeare's Globe does not hold its relevance from simple history alone. Since 1997, the theatre has become a cultural institution independently, producing both a summer and winter season, as well as classes, tours and exhibitions for theatre goers and historians.  

As a bit of old world theatre, in the heart of modern London one of the most popular attractions at The Globe is their summer Shakespeare series. Guests have the option to purchase a seat, and view the play as nobility would have in Shakespeare's time.  Alternatively, and for only £5, guests can stand in “The Groundlings” as close to the stage as they would like, and get an up close experience to some of Shakespeare's greatest works.  This legendary theatre is not only a must see for theatre lovers, but anyone visiting London who wants to experience the best of modern theatre, combined with the history of days gone by.