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21 best london tours of 2024.

From exploring Harry Potter movie sets to cruising on the River Thames, these are the best tours of London.

The Best London Tours

Courtesy of Secret Food Tours

If you're looking for the best things to do in London, but are unsure where to begin, consider a guided tour of the city. Many sightseeing excursions cover the highlights (think Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge ), while other London tours focus on Harry Potter, Jack the Ripper and day trips to Stonehenge. Read on to discover a variety of well-rated tours in London.

Editor’s Pick: Premium Tours – Full Day London Tour

Price: Adults from 143 pounds (about $183); kids from 133 pounds (about $170) Duration: 9 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send  Laura French , an award-winning British travel writer currently based in London, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. Premium Tours – Full Day London Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

This full-day bus tour packs in an impressive number of London’s must-see sights, with free time to explore at each stop. We boarded at Victoria Coach Station before ambling through Westminster, getting up-close views of honey-hued Parliament Square – framed by the Houses of Parliament , Big Ben and Westminster Abbey – from the bus. From there it was on to St. Paul’s Cathedral , where we were given a guided tour of this chandelier-bedecked marvel as our English guide shared intriguing facts about its history. Next up was Buckingham Palace, where our guide timed it so we’d catch the changing of the guard. Our next stop was the Tower of London , where we had a brief lunch break and guided orientation before having a couple of hours to roam freely. Most of the tour group made an immediate beeline for the crown jewels, eyes goggling at the impressive collection of diamond encrusted crowns and gold chalices. We rounded off the day with a cruise along the Thames. The tour ended at the London Eye , where several in the group had opted for an add-on whirl on the wheel, and a few left for cream tea at Harrod’s (two activities included in the upgraded ticket option).

Tours run daily from 7:45 a.m. to around 4:30 p.m. It’s worth noting the changing of the guard only takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, so if you’re hoping to catch it, book the tour for one of those days (and while guides will do their best to accommodate seeing the changing of the guard, there’s never a guarantee).

You’ll be on your feet a fair amount, so it's best to wear comfy shoes . You'll also want to pack light – in the morning, you can leave things on the bus, but when you get off at the Tower of London, you’ll need to take everything with you, as the rest of the tour is on foot and by boat. Also, you'll have to queue a bit for the crown jewels, but it’s worth the wait!

Laura French

Why we love it:

• Beyond the official stops, our guide pointed out plenty of other intriguing spots along the way – from Downing Street, official home of the prime minister, to Fleet Street, the former epicenter of British journalism, and the West End , the biggest theater district in the world. Despite having grown up in and around the city, I gleaned plenty of new historical facts myself, and spotted things I’d never noticed before (including the building that served as Gringotts Wizarding Bank in the "Harry Potter" movies).
• The tour ticket covers the cost of entry for St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and the river cruise.
• The guide also gave us plenty of other tips – such as when to come to see the dress rehearsals for the Trooping the Color (the king’s official birthday) – and pointed out a good fish and chip shop by the Tower of London for a classic British lunch.

– Laura French

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Secret Food Tours – London Bridge

Price: Adults from 79 pounds (about $100); kids from 69 pounds (about $88) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

British food often gets a bad reputation, but this tour will change your mind. You'll visit seven different eateries, sampling everything from sausage rolls to sticky toffee pudding.

The tour begins at bustling Borough Market, where you'll snack on a bacon and egg bap (the U.K. version of a breakfast sandwich) as your guide tells you about the history of the market, as well as an overview of the city's history and culture. Other stops include a historic pub for a cheese tasting paired with English cider. And – as is standard on a Secret Food Tour – there will be a secret dish offered somewhere along the way. As you eat your way through London, you'll also enjoy great views of the city skyline, London Bridge and Tower Bridge. Past participants appreciate the quantity and quality of food provided, as well as the entertaining guides.

Tours depart several times a day between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Secret Food Tours also offers tours of the Shoreditch district, among other areas.

BrakeAway Bike Tours – The Secret London Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 32 pounds (about $41); kids from 26 pounds (about $33) Duration: 3.5 hours

This London bike tour leads riders past famous sights, such as the Tower of London and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, but also explores lesser-known features of the city, including its street art and secret passageways. It also includes a 20-minute stop at Brick Lane. Reviewers extol the fun guides and say the tour is ideal if you want a break from the tourist crowds. Plus, they say it's a great value for the money.

Tours are offered daily from late March through October at 3 p.m. Tour prices include bikes, helmets and rain ponchos. Children 9 and younger are not permitted on the tour, and groups are capped at 12 participants. For a more traditional tour of London, consider the company's Grand London Bike Tour.

Liquid History Tours – Drink London Tour

Price: From 25 pounds (about $32) Duration: 3 to 4 hours

If the idea of walking – and drinking – in the footsteps of literary luminaries like Shakespeare and Dickens appeals, this is the tour for you. On the Drink London Tour, you'll walk along the "Street of Shame" (Fleet Street) for approximately 2 miles and stop in at least four historic pubs, some centuries old. You'll stroll by St. Paul's Cathedral, peek into secluded courtyards and listen to tales about Sweeney Todd. Travelers love the stories the guides share just as much as they enjoy drinking the local brews.

Note that the cost of drinks is not included, and reservations are required for this tour. Participants must be at least 18 years old. If you're traveling with a group, consider one of Liquid History Tours' private excursions.

The Ghost Bus Tours

Price: Adults from 25 pounds (about $32); kids from 17 pounds (about $22) Duration: 75 minutes

Ride a vintage double-decker bus for a spooky peek into London's lesser-known history with Ghost Bus Tours. Mixing horror with a fair bit of comedy – an aspect reviewers love – the actors-turned-guides describe the haunted history of top attractions, such as the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, among other famous landmarks. Both visitors and locals value the obscure stories guides share.

Tours last approximately 75 minutes and run several times each evening, though departure times vary by day.

London Bicycle Tour Company – The Classic Tour

Price: Adults from 33.95 pounds (about $43); kids from 24.95 pounds (about $32) Duration: 3 hours

Travelers consistently give the London Bicycle Tour Company high marks for its fun guides who are vigilant about ensuring riders' safety. On the Classic Tour – which travels about 8 miles – you'll breeze past Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Banksy Tunnel (where you'll likely witness artists at work) and other local landmarks. Your tour guide will offer commentary and give you plenty of time to stop and take photos. Children need to be at least 10 years old and stable riders to participate.

Tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. To admire the city lights at night, consider the company's daily sunset ride.

Courtesy of Alternative London

Alternative London – Street Art Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds ($25); kids from 14 pounds (about $18) Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Promising to show you things London guidebooks don't cover, Alternative London's walking tour takes you to East London, where guides showcase the area's street art and discuss its culture and history. The company employs street artists and other creative types as guides so you get an insider's look into the community, something travelers say makes the tour unique. No two tours are alike because every guide has their favorite route and spots to highlight. Past tourgoers say the tour is fun and full of interesting insights.

Tours run at 11 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and Tuesdays, as well as 2 p.m. on Fridays. Outings are limited to 20 people. Looking to explore more of London's hidden spots? Alternative London offers a bike tour that emphasizes street art.

The English Bus – Stonehenge, Bath & A Secret Place Tour

Price: From 134 pounds (about $170) Duration: 12 hours

After you've had your fill of London's hustle, take a day trip to the countryside for a tour of Stonehenge . On this small tour of 16 people or fewer, you'll depart London in a Mercedes minibus and head to both Stonehenge and Bath. At Stonehenge, you'll have time to walk around the ancient stones and marvel at their enormity. In Bath, you'll have time to stop for lunch and either explore on your own or take a guided tour. The twist to this tour is that you'll also visit a secret spot on the way back to London, which is only revealed when you arrive.

The English Bus's vehicle, with panoramic windows and a glass roof, is small enough to go down back roads and through the countryside – a feature travelers love. Reviewers are also complimentary of the guides, who they describe as friendly, educational and well-versed in British history.

Tours depart daily at 8:45 a.m. and return to central London around 8:30 p.m. Tickets do not include food, drinks or admission to Stonehenge. The English Bus also operates daylong trips to the Cotswolds, Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon, among other destinations.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Price: Adults from 53.50 pounds ($68); kids from 43 pounds ($55) Duration: 3.5 to 7 hours

If you're a fan of Harry Potter, you already know that this London tour is a must – and previous tourgoers confirm it lives up to the hype. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter offers a behind-the-scenes look at sets, props and costumes used in the film franchise. Walk through the Great Hall – which is set for dinner – and explore Diagon Alley and Platform 9 3/4. Other exhibits include Creature Effects, where you can see how characters like Buckbeak the Hippogriff and Aragog were brought to life. You can even enjoy a butterbeer in the Backlot Café. Special exhibits are also displayed throughout the year and around the holidays.

Plan to spend at least half a day to fully experience the collection and discover its intricate details. Themed packages and add-on experiences are also available. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

City Experiences – Evening Cruise on the River Thames

Price: From 30 pounds (about $38) Duration: 2 hours

City Experiences offers evening cruises on the River Thames, a lovely way to end your day in London. Upon boarding, a server greets you with a complimentary glass of prosecco, and hors d'oeuvres are served throughout the two-hour cruise. You'll enjoy live background music as you take in the sights from your seat on the open-air upstairs deck or inside the saloon with picture windows. Previous travelers say they enjoyed the cruise, noting it is relaxing and affords spectacular views for photos.

In the warm weather months, cruises run daily at 6:30 p.m.; beginning in October, cruises are available Thursday through Sunday only. Patrons must be age 13 or older to join the tour. Other London river cruises offered by City Experiences include a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing cruise.

Courtesy of Jack the Ripper Tour

The Jack the Ripper Tour With Ripper-Vision

Price: Adults from 18 pounds (about $23); kids from 10 pounds (about $13) Duration: 2 hours

This offbeat Jack the Ripper tour has a unique spin: the company uses what it calls "Ripper-Vision" to tell the story of the notorious murderer. A hand-held projector, "Ripper-Vision" displays pictures on walls and sides of buildings throughout the tour, allowing the guides to show (and tell) all about the infamous serial killer. You'll visit the actual murder sites where Jack the Ripper commited his crimes, and will get a glimpse of what London was like in the late 1800s. Tourgoers say guides are informative, entertaining and skilled at retelling the stories of Jack the Ripper's escapades.

Tours are offered nightly at 7:30 p.m., with an additional 5 p.m. tour on select days. The company also offers Jack the Ripper pub tours.

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Eating Europe – East End Food Tour

Price: Adults from 85 pounds (about $108); kids from 70 pounds (about $89) Duration: 3.5 hours

Eating Europe's East End food tour is a 3.5-hour exploration of one of London's most diverse and interesting neighborhoods. Participants will enjoy food at six restaurants, pubs, markets, bakeries and shops. Along with classic (and award-winning) fish and chips, you'll also sample some of the city's best curry, bagels and pastries. Reviewers rave about the delicious and varied offerings on this tour and encourage future participants to pace themselves so they can enjoy every bite.

Tours run throughout the day, every day, beginning at 11 a.m. There is a maximum of 12 people per tour. Eating Europe also offers tours of Soho and Borough Market.

Fat Tire Tours – Royal London Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 35 pounds (about $44); kids from 29 pounds (about $37) Duration: 4 hours

Fascinated with the monarchy? On this approximately four-hour cycling excursion from Fat Tire Tours, expert guides lead you to spots like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Kensington Palace, all while sharing intrigue and stories about British royalty. Midway through the tour, there is a half-hour lunch break near Trafalgar Square (at your own expense). Bikers say the tour provides a great way to see iconic sights and describe guides as informative and friendly.

Rides are offered daily at 10:30 a.m.; an additional 3:30 p.m. tour may also be available depending on the day and month. Schedules vary during the winter. Travelers should note reservations are required for this tour, and helmets are provided. Fat Tire Tours also offers cycling tours along the Thames, bike rentals and private tours.

Evan Evans Tours – Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

Price: Adults from 95 pounds (about $121); kids from 85 pounds (about $108) Duration: 11 hours

The first stop on this day trip from London is Windsor Castle – the largest occupied castle in the world. Here, you'll have time to stroll the immaculate grounds and pay a visit to St George's Chapel, the location of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 2018 nuptials. From there, you'll head to the city of Bath, England – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's home to the world-famous Roman Baths. The last stop of the day is Stonehenge. In all, the tour lasts about 11 hours. Reviewers rave about the entertaining, passionate guides, but some do bemoan the pace of the tour, saying certain parts felt rushed. However, all agree this is a great way to cross some must-see landmarks off your bucket list.

Tours depart Victoria Coach Station daily at 8 a.m. Evan Evans Tours also operates a similar tour that stops in Oxford instead of Bath.

Courtesy of Brigit's Bakery's Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Brigit's Bakery London – Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour

Price: Adults from 45 pounds (about $57); kids from 35 pounds (about $44) Duration: 1.5 hours

Offering a unique twist on a bus tour and afternoon tea, Brigit's Bakery London's Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London Tour combines the two for a tasty outing. During the tour, you'll ride on a vintage double-decker Routemaster bus through central London, passing by Big Ben, Hyde Park, Downing Street and more. As you sightsee, servers pour tea and offer sandwiches, cakes and pastries. In addition to the tour's novelty, visitors find the prerecorded commentary entertaining and informative, and most say they enjoyed the food.

Tours, which last about 90 minutes, run several times daily and depart from either Northumberland Avenue or Victoria Coach Station. The tour accommodates several dietary restrictions, though these options may have an additional fee. Children ages 4 and younger are not permitted. Prefer gin to tea? The company also offers a Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, among other options.

Tally Ho! – Landmarks and Gems Royal London Bike Tour

Price: From 55 pounds (about $70) Duration: 3.5 hours

On the London Landmarks & Gems cycling tour, Tally Ho! leads visitors to the city's major sights, while expert guides offer their insights and informative commentary – a point of praise for many reviewers. Other highlights include seeing the royal guards (and possibly the changing of the guard ceremony), spray painting in the Leake Street tunnel and grabbing a pint at a pub. The tour covers about 5 miles and travels at a leisurely pace, with time for photo stops.

Tours ride twice daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., though times may vary seasonally. There may only be an afternoon ride during the fall and winter months, and an additional tour at 9:30 a.m. runs during the summer months. There is a maximum of 12 people per tour. A helmet or tweed flat cap and spray paint are provided to bikers. Tally Ho! offers a variety of cycling and walking tours, including a gin "safari."

Thames Rockets – Ultimate London Adventure

Price: From 49.95 pounds ($63) Duration: 50 minutes

The 50-minute Ultimate London Adventure tour is a sightseeing cruise like no other. As your actor-turned-guide narrates your trip, you'll take in iconic sights along the Thames, such as the Tate Modern, the Gherkin and the Houses of Parliament. Once you get under the Tower Bridge, the speedboat captain ramps up to speeds of 30 knots (35 mph) and takes you on a thrilling ride as the music blasts and passengers shriek. Tourgoers describe it as an exhilarating, fantastic experience.

Tours depart several times daily. Keep in mind: From November through January tours are only offered Thursday through Sunday. Thames Rockets also offers adults-only evening rides, as well as longer 80-minute cruises, among other options.

Courtesy of Tour for Muggles

Tour for Muggles

Price: Adults from 17 pounds (about $22); kids from 15 pounds (about $19) Duration: 2 hours

One of the best Harry Potter tours in London , this option garners rave reviews from witches, wizards, Muggles and Squibs who appreciate both the knowledgeable tour guides and seeing their favorite "Harry Potter" locations in real life. Tour for Muggles takes visitors through London for approximately two hours to see locations where the movies were shot, as well as places that inspired author J.K. Rowling.

Tours are limited to 20 people and run several times a day Tuesday through Sunday.

Gin Journey London

Price: From 75 pounds (about $95) Duration: 4.5 hours

If you enjoy imbibing in gin, you'll love taking a tour with Gin Journey, where your expert "gin guardian" takes you to five different venues in London in a chauffeur-driven minibus. During the 4.5-hour tour, you'll sample five different gins, enjoy five gin cocktails, visit a distillery and learn all about this spirit and why it's having a modern renaissance. Reviewers praise the guides, the drinks and the tour's great organization.

Gin Journeys can be booked in different neighborhoods, including Hackney and Soho. Tours, which are capped at 20 people, are offered every Saturday at 1 or 2 p.m., depending on which neighborhood you choose to book. Ticket discounts may be available for early bookings.

Strawberry Tours – Free Soho Tour London

Price: Free Duration: 2 hours

Since the mid-19th century, Soho has been a haven for musicians, writers and bohemians. Learn about the neighborhood's famous residents and much more on this free two-hour London walking tour. Your guide will talk about famous bands like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones and their connection to the area. You'll also learn about the history of Soho's sex industry, a topic not always discussed on tours. Guides will take you by the Old Red Light District, Carnaby Street, the West End Theatre District and more. Tourgoers rave about the expert guides and are awestruck by the history of the area.

As its name suggests, the tour is free, but at the end of tour, you can pay your guide what you wish. This tour runs Wednesday through Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Tickets must be reserved in advance. Strawberry Tours offers other free excursions around London, such as street art-themed tours and several London landmarks tours.

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Free Tours by Foot – World War Two Tour of London

On this two-hour walking tour of London, you'll learn about London during the Blitz, hear tales of how the city was rebuilt after the war and walk past landmarks that survived the bombings, such as St. Paul's Cathedral. Tour-takers value the engaging guides and the amount of history shared on the tour. They also say guides tailor the tour to participants' interests.

Visitors can name their own price, paying what they think the tour was worth at the excursion's conclusion. Tours operate Thursday at 2 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Reservations are required to guarantee a spot. Free Tours by Foot offers a variety of walking and food tours, including tours of Westminster and London street art, among many others.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in London
• The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace
• The Best Stonehenge Tours from London
• The Best International Travel Insurance

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Admire the Big Ben and the imposing Houses of Parliament

As you touch down in London, you’ll surely be searching the skyline for Big Ben, the iconic Clock Tower at the Palace of Westminster, or the Houses of Parliament. You'll have the chance to admire these impressive buildings in the company of your London travel guide and listen for the famous chimes that have been ringing out across London since 1859.

Learn about the history of the Buckingham Palace

You’re in for a royal time at Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British royal family since 1837. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in London, and we’ll take you to marvel at this magnificent palace, learn about it’s centuries-old history, and perhaps even wave to the King if he’s home.

Ramble through London's picturesque Royal Parks

If you love a lush park or garden, you’re in for a real treat in London, with over 5,000 acres of gorgeous green space across the eight Royal Parks. Spend your days strolling, cycling, or simply relaxing in these beautiful parks, from the famous Hyde Park to the ornate Kensington Gardens.

Go on a shopping spree around Carnaby Street and Soho

We’ll dive into London’s West End with a tour around the buzzing borough of Soho, where you’ll get a taste of London’s diverse culture, history and cuisine. Wander down the iconic Oxford and Regent Streets and of course, Carnaby Street, the city’s shopping mecca, and the epicentre of the Swinging Sixties in London.

See the stately Changing of the Guard

You’ll watch history come alive when we take you to Buckingham Palace to witness the spectacular Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a full-on display of royal pomp and military tradition, with the soldiers of The Queen’s Guard in bearskin hats and bright-red uniforms marching down the Mall, and you can’t miss it on your London trip.

Our top 5 things to do in London

With an overwhelming number of iconic London attractions to explore, where to begin? When you travel London with Trafalgar, we’ll show you all the very best of the city.

Tate Modern

As one of the world’s largest museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern is an unmissable London attraction. You’ll find everything here from vibrant artworks to films and performance art, and you can’t miss the giant Turbine Hall, a five-storey tall room used to display extraordinarily large art installations.

Museum of London

If you’ve ever wanted to learn the history of this great city, the Museum of London is the place to go. It’s the world’s largest urban history collection and you’ll learn all about England’s capital from prehistoric to modern times. The museum even overlooks the remains of the Roman city wall on the edge of the oldest area of London.

Science Museum

You could spend hours exploring the treasures of the Science Museum including the world’s greatest innovations, ranging from Puffing Billy, the oldest surviving steam locomotive, to the first jet engine, to the Apollo 10 command module. You’ll travel from the Industrial Revolution all the way into the future in this amazing playground of the mind.

Best museums in London

London’s museums are among the world’s best, with millions of visitors each year to marvel at the incredible history, art and design. What treasures will you find when we take you to these great institutions?

Cottage Pie

It doesn’t get more comforting than a traditional cottage pie, and you’ve got to order this English staple at least once in a classic London pub. It’s been a beloved dish for generations, originating as a clever way to make a hearty meal from leftovers like beef, peas and carrots, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Cornish Pasty

Make a beeline for the nearest bakery in London and discover these little pockets of deliciousness. They’re made from shortcrust pastry stuffed with beef, potatoes, swede, onion and egg, then baked until golden, forming a rich gravy inside its own tasty casing. You’re sure to go back for more than just one Cornish pasty!

Named after the prestigious boys’ boarding school of the same name, this simple yet delicious treat is made from a refreshing blend of cream, strawberries and crushed meringue. It’s a classic British dessert and you can even try it at The National Café at the National Gallery, one of the best art museums in London.

Best food in London

Our London tours are big on foodie experiences, and you can go from a traditional English afternoon tea, to a delicious culinary adventure through Chinatown in the West End.

What to pack for London

Waterproof coat

London is known for its drizzles and rain showers, so pack a waterproof coat or travel-sized umbrella to keep your dry and warm on your London trip.

Comfortable shoes

This city was made for walking, and with so many incredible monuments, museums, parks and markets to explore, you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes to get you around London.

Camera & extra SD cards

From Big Ben to the London Eye, your camera is sure to get a good workout. Pack some extra SD cards so you never run out of space to capture all of London’s pinch-me moments.

Waterproof day bag

Keep your hands free on your London tours with a waterproof day pack, perfect for holding all your shopping and souvenirs and keeping them dry in wet weather.

Warm layers

London is known for experiencing four seasons in one day, so it’s best to wear layers that will keep you warm in the cold weather and cool when the sun comes out.

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Private London Tours

Our private tours in london are 5-star rated on tripadvisor, fantastic london private tours & uk tours with a local guide.

We offer professional local guides, delivering fantastic, in-depth  private London tours . Whatever you want to see and do in London , we can show you. Our team of expert guides know London like the back of their hands and so you will get to know the city like a local on one of our London Tours .

Whether it’s your first time visiting or if you’re just returning for a day trip , we have an expert guide waiting to make your journey unforgettable.

Our Most Popular Private Tours of London

Westminster abbey private tour, london highlights walking tour, tower of london & westminster abbey walking tour, why book a private tour with us.

• All of our Guides are Blue Badge holders, this is Britain’s highest professional tourist-guiding qualification, they are the only external guides able to show you around the most famous attractions and museums
• Skip the Line, we buy all our entrance tickets in advance avoiding long queues, leaving you with more time to discover those hidden gems
• We pride ourselves on being able to tailor tours to your interest, your personal guide will bring your tour to life, making it enjoyable for all ages, groups and families.
• Blue Badge guides are carefully selected for an intensive 2 year course culminating in an extensive series of exams in all aspects of British History, Art, Architecture, Contemporary Britain and much more
• Your time on holiday is precious, let our expert team make it memorable for all the right reasons with our private sightseeing tours

Other Popular Tours Around the UK

As well as our central London tours , we also run other tours in the UK . We cover most major cities and our local private tour guide can deliver the same high standards that you can expect from our London tours . 

Glasgow Highlights Tour

Tour of edinburgh, bath highlights tour, private walking tours of london, let our private guide make your trip memorable for all the right reasons, tripadvisor reviews, grab your special london travel guide.

The BEST Full Day London Tours

Book london in a day tours, day trips to stonehenge & windsor castle, and more.

Want to take the hassle out of planning an amazing day in London? Our top-rated full-day tours of London have you covered! With skip-the-line access, perfectly designed itineraries, and some of the best guides in the city, you’ll see more than you ever thought possible in just a day. And you might save a little money too! Combine the Tower of London with Westminster Abbey, squeeze in a cruise on the River Thames, or take a day trip to the stunning Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath!

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London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

Explore Buckingham Palace, see the Crown Jewels, take a river cruise on the Thames, and more!

Small Group Day Tour of Bath, Windsor Castle, and Stonehenge from London

Explore the rich history of England with an ultimate historic experience covering three iconic sites

Private London in a Day Tour

Discover London's deep history at Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, and the Changing of the Guard

Harry Potter Studio & Oxford from London: Magic Behind the Scenes

Roam the streets of Oxford, visit Hogwarts Castle, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express!

From London: Warner Bros Studios & Walking Tour of Oxford in a Small Group

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter and immerse yourself in a historic university city

Semi-Private Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter

Discover the cinematic sorcery behind the world’s most famous wizard in this fully guided tour

Windsor, Stonehenge, & Bath Full-Day Tour with Lacock Pub Lunch from London

Enjoy coach travel, early entry to Windsor Castle, and a pub lunch on this action-packed day trip

Things to do in London

Westminster Abbey Tours | Changing of the Guard Tours | Private London Tours | Windsor Castle Tours | Harry Potter Tours | Stonehenge from London | Buckingham Palace Tours | Tower of London Tours | London Food Tours | Day Trips from London | Half Day London Tours | Full Day London Tours

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Privileged entrance vatican tour with sistine chapel.

Skip the line and gain direct access to the Raphael Rooms, Creation of Man, and St. Peter's Basilica

Ultimate Palace of Versailles Tour from Paris

Breeze past the lines for the palace and gardens with a friendly English speaking guide

Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Explore the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and more!

Semi-Private Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

Enjoy a premium and exclusive tour of the Raphael Rooms, St.Peter's Basilica, and more!

St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Half-Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Explore St. Mark's Square's most iconic attractions with skip-the-line tickets and an expert guide

Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Skip the line at the Colosseum, plus Arch of Titus, Temple of Julius Caesar, and more!

Venice in a Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Visit St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, Rialto Bridge, and the hidden areas of Venice

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London Tour Guides

Since 1958 , British Tours has recruited many of the best tour guides available in England.

Our team of 47 London tour guides , both men and women, are chosen for their enthusiasm, personality, academic backgrounds and professional experience. They are extensively trained by us and qualified and registered with the London Tourist Board.

Many also have in-depth knowledge in  specialised areas  such as:

• Archaeology
• Architecture
• London for Kids
• England's Gardens
• TV & Film Locations
• Legal London  & The Inns of Court
• The British Museum
• John Wesley
• Museums & Galleries
• Historic Pubs
• Rock 'n' Roll London
• Shopping Tours
• Military & WW2 History

Your guide will collect you by car or minibus  - or larger parties by coach - from any London location and personally guide you inside places of historic importance. 

We have tour guides speaking most languages including French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese and Chinese

Colin  is a Justice of the Peace and a College Lecturer specialising in the Military and Battlefields of Europe.

Harri  is a former Detective in the C.I.D. at New Scotland Yard. He is the only qualified Welsh speaking guide in England and also a British Museum guide.

Sylke  is a linguist, keen traveller, and specialises in Art, Antiques, England's Gardens and family tours. Sylke is the former Sales Manager of London's prestigious St Giles' Hotel.

Jim  is a former Group Captain in the Royal Air Force and Military Attache at the British Embassy in Paris. He was recently awarded the OBE by the Queen.

Sam , as an engineer and diver, worked on the raising and restoration of Henry Vlll's Tudor flagship the Mary Rose that sunk in 1545. He lives next door to Highclere Castle in Berkshire, better known as Downton Abbey, and has a passion for walking and enjoying our wonderful historical buildings.

Ulla  is a St Martin's School of Art Graduate and former Editor of several London Tourist and Shopping magazines. Ulla specialises in the Monarchy, the Social Season, Gardens and Architecture.

Jonathan  is fluent in French, German and Italian and specialises in tours of Normandy by Private Plane, London, Hampton Court and his old University City, Oxford. One of Jonathan's many 'claims to fame' is as a leading extra with Hugh Grant, in Hugh's first movie!

Callum was born in London and educated in Scotland. A physics graduate and former management consultant with Accenture and Unisys, he has always loved discovering and imparting the facts. Qualified as a guide to the City of London and City of Westminster, he is currently reading an MA in Historical Research at the University of London.

Olga loves sharing her passion for History with visitors from all over the world - she guides expertly in five languages!

Mark  grew up in London and Dorset, the county that features in the novels of Thomas Hardy. He holds a degree in English Literature and his thesis on H.G. Wells is in the British Library! Mark worked in the British Museum for several years and specialises in the British Museum, The National Gallery, The Tate Britain, East London and the Docklands.

Jeremy  is an expert in British History (he used to teach the subject) and passionate about it. He has an International career in import and export, working with the Middle East, France and India.

Richard  worked for the BBC World, Sky News, ITN. With a background in journalism, he worked as a foreign affair reporter, political correspondent and television presenter.

Geoff  ‘s areas of expertise include prehistoric Britain and the history of the monarchy. After thirty years as a police detective in London, Geoff now enjoys "meeting new people every day who are actually pleased to see me!" 

Rod  is a published author and lived in Europe for a number of years. Rod specialises in the military history and is currently involved with writing a further volume on the war dead of his home village. 

Nikki specialises in modern and classic art and has led tours all over the world with private adult groups and students. She is renowned for being able to engage with all age groups and tailors her tours accordingly. She has a particular love of all things Royal and knows all the gossip! She's a good all rounder too. 

Mike , as a former BBC TV news correspondent, has reported from many of the world's trouble spots before going on to found a TV production company specialising in history programmes. His special interests are the Royal Navy - especially in the 18 century - and Tudor England. His family home is next to Downton Abbey (Highclere Castle) in Berkshire (although he's not appeared in the tv series yet!) and the Middleton's live in the next village so he's up on royal gossip.  

Alan  first guided for us as a student before entering a career in chartered surveying. Alan's interest in historic buildings has led him to Postgraduate studies in building conservation & architectural history. His special interests include Georgian architecture, Parish Churches and Cathedrals - notably St Paul's Cathedral where he has worked as a volunteer guide for a number of years.

David  has extensive knowledge of Scotland and Wales, specialises in World War l and ll and has guided many tours to the East Anglian airbases as well as the Normandy beaches.

Steve  is an architect who has specialised in restoration work to a number of England's Museums, Art Galleries and Palaces including Hampton Court Palace.

Michael  is a London university lecturer in Art and Design history. Michael is a born Londoner and cannot remember a time when he was not exploring the city’s streets, museums and markets. His special interests include Architecture, Fine Art, Museums & Galleries and Sport.

Nick  was educated at Eton and is a History Teacher. His special interests include tours of his University City, Cambridge.

Tom  studied Modern History at Oxford and his career has included journalism, teaching and magazine editing. Tom has travelled extensively throughout Great Britain and specialises in extended tours throughout England, Scotland & Wales.

Sue  is a registered guide in London and the West Country and specialises in tours of Bath, Windsor Castle and country houses and gardens.

Sheila  studied History and History of Art at the University of London and her many special interests include the Houses of Parliament, Garden History and Victorian London.

Nigel  graduated in Law and worked in film, commercials and light entertainment with names such as Bob Hope, Tommy Cooper and John Cleese. On leaving the industry Nigel went sailing for 10 years+ skippering his own 48' sailing yacht the length and breadth of the Mediterranean and across the Atlantic to the Caribbean. Nigel's interests include history, architecture, the sea and the arts.

Adrian  is an author, linguist and former Royal Engineers officer, Army freefall parachute instructor and diplomat who served in Cyprus, South Vietnam, Ireland, Switzerland, Canada, South Korea (as Olympic Attache for the Seoul Games) and Jamaica.

Some illustrious former guides

W e have tour guides in other cities - please  contact us  for more information

Luckily, we found British Tours! The flyover of the Normandy beaches was superb

Alexandra Linders

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Free Quote for London Private Tours

Award-winning 5-Star Premium Private Tours of London ➡️ tailor-made just for you ➡️ with everything taken care of by us ➡️ using the finest fully-licensed local private tour guides ➡️ whose English you will actually understand ➡️ in a 100% Unique Experience ➡️ without waiting in lines ➡️ all organized for you by our Chief Magic Maker !

Distinction: We are not a mass marketplace of random cookie-cutter tours and guides and we do not do high volume, low-quality private tours. We specialize in bespoke private tours run by the top licensed local guides with 5-star personalized service.

Examples of Private Tours our Clients ask us to customize for them in London:

So if you are looking for the absolute best in London & surroundings with authentic local fully-licensed native guides whose English you can actually understand and with an exclusive and amazingly fun itinerary tailored just for you all wrapped in a 100% premium private tour experience, then tell us everything you want in the form on the left below and our sought after Chief Magic Maker will curate a unique experience just for you and make it happen with our 5-star Team of Hall-of-Famers ! You won't see a menu of prices on our site because we don't offer boring cookie-cutter tours or mixed group tours. Instead, we tailor each private tour to each of our individual clients and carefully craft your experience with our unbeatable recommendations to give you the best tour you will ever do! No two of our tours are alike, so whether you want to move around in a Luxury Mercedes Van & Chauffeur or "like a local" on foot, or need awesome Corporate Incentive Tours or tours that are fun for the whole family , or even tours in other cities in Europe , we've got you covered . Need tour ideas? Just scroll down here and don't hesitate to ask us for our customized recommendations as well! Our award-winning bespoke private tour service is genuinely unparalleled in London and that's why it has a best-in-class 98% client satisfaction rate . So let's make the magic happen because we guarantee you'll take wonderful lifelong memories back home with you after enjoying our Private Tours in London !

Limited Availability: Our superior guides and coveted skip-the-line tickets have limited availability and are in high demand in London after winning TripAdvisor's rare Hall of Fame Award, so we strongly recommend making a no-obligation free inquiry now so that you don't miss out on our magic later.

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(Example: Full-Day Tours of London, Oxford & Cotswold, Windsor Castle & Hampton Court Palace, and Stonehenge & Salisbury & Bath on July 4, 5, 6 and 7, each with a private guide and vehicle with chauffeur, include Skip-the-line Tickets everywhere possible, and with pick up and drop-off at The Savoy Hotel.) Multi-city Tours: If you need multiple Tours in Barcelona , Madrid , Seville , Cordoba , Granada , Lisbon , London , and/or Paris , just let us know and we'll take care of all of it for you !

Our Advantages

Premium 5-Star London Private Tours

Tour london & surroundings with your very own 5-star guide.

The advantages of the Private Tour are significant: you get a lot of flexibility in terms of what you can see, the pace, info, interaction, and engagement, plus we have the option of improvising and changing course along the way while focusing on what you find most interesting without any distractions from other visitors!

Tailor-Made Private Tours of London ★★★★★

Discover London your way with our exclusive Private Tours, designed for the discerning traveler seeking a journey beyond the ordinary. Say goodbye to one-size-fits-all itineraries and the company of strangers. With us, your travel aspirations take center stage, leading to a tailor-made experience that perfectly aligns with your unique interests and desires.

Our expertise lies in crafting bespoke tours that are as unique as our clients. Whether you're keen to explore hidden gems away from the bustling tourist spots, seeking an intimate exploration of London's renowned landmarks, or anything in between, our commitment to personalization ensures that no two journeys are the same. This unparalleled flexibility allows us to cater to even the most specific of requests, ensuring your visit to London is memorable, secure, and entirely your own.

From solo adventurers eager to tread off the beaten path to corporate groups looking to unwind in style after a conference, our tailor-made Private Tours promise an authentic exploration of London and more, should your travels extend beyond. All of this is brought to life by our 5-star Private Guides, whose passion and local insight will transform your visit into an unforgettable experience.

Ready to experience London like never before? Let us know what inspires you, and we’ll handle the rest. Your journey of discovery awaits.

"Best of London" Private Tour ★★★★★

"London like a Londoner" Off the Beaten Path Private Tour ★★★★★

Day Trips Outside the City ★★★★★

Combine: oxford & the cotswolds, windsor castle & hampton court palace, stonehenge & bath & salisbury, white cliffs of dover & canterbury, and so much more, the combinations are endless.

Stonehenge Private Tour ★★★★★

Combine with: bath, salisbury, the cotswolds, oxford, windsor castle and more.

The Cotswolds Private Tour ★★★★★

Combine with: oxford, stratford-upon-avon, bath, warwick castle, and more.

Windsor Castle Private Tour ★★★★★

Combine with: hampton court palace, stonehenge, bath, oxford, and more.

Bath Private Tour ★★★★★

Combine with: stonehenge, the cotswolds, salisbury, oxford, and more.

White Cliffs of Dover & Canterbury Private Tour ★★★★★

...And So Much More! Design your own Private Tour! ★★★★★

We do it ALL! ★★★★★

We are here for You ★★★★★

So if a 5-star Bespoke Private Tour sounds like what you're looking for, then inquire now with the details of what you'd like and we'll send you a free quote in less than 24 hours !

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Top Tours in London, England

London tours.

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• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
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• Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

2. Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

3. Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour

4. Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

5. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Transport from London

6. Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath with Pub Lunch in Lacock

7. Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

8. Private Excursion Tour from London to Southampton via Stonehenge

9. The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

10. Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)

11. Stonehenge and Windsor from London

12. Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

13. City Sightseeing London Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

14. Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London

15. Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

16. Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

17. Royal Tour w/ Buckingham Palace Tickets - Semi-Private 8ppl Max

18. Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Thames Cruise in London

19. Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip from London with Guided Cathedral Tour

20. Windsor Castle Half Day Trip from London

21. London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River

22. The British Museum London Guided Museum Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max

23. Ghost, Ghouls and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride

24. London Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

25. Buckingham Palace State Rooms Entry ticket

26. Vintage London Bus Tour Including Cruise with London Eye option

27. Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle & White Cliffs Guided Day Tour from London

28. See Over 30 Top London Sights! Fun Local Guide!!

29. Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

30. Best of London Tour inc Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

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London to Bordeaux, the Basque Country and the Beach

I found the week quite pleasant especially the stay in San Sebastián. The train journeys were interesting and punctual but I didn’t enjoy the constant walking though...

Five stars for Magdalena as tour leader who went over and beyond to ensure w...

Excellent tour. Train travel was a new experience. Very good

See all London reviews

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sightseeing attractions in london and uk

London tour services: top tours and attractions in England

We offer attractions tickets and tours in london.

London tour services is specialized in attractions and tours of London and its surroundings. In other words, we offer tours and guided tours of London, but also attractions and specialized visits to other cities and places in England. In particular, we can arrange train or bus trips. Not to mention trips from London to other places not in England for example Paris. However, we specialize in tours and attractions for the city of London, Bath, Oxford, Liverpool, York and Edinburgh.

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London tour services

Bus tours from london to the rest of uk.

After that, we have been offering bus tours from the city of London to Stonehenge, Windsor , Stratford, Cotswolds and many more. Through our tours you can learn about the history and beauties of the United Kingdom. For instance, you can browse and learn about all the attractions offered online. Not to mention that the prices you find on our internet pages are not priced at any additional price. In particular, when you book an attraction with us at the entrance you save time and money. In short, with the early purchase of the entrance tickets, you save long waiting lines at the entrance to the attractions .

London tour services offers tickets for musicals,operas and concerts

Also airport transfers by shuttle or private car.

Finally, do not forget London tour services can also book tickets for London theatres. Specifically, we can book musicals operas or concerts in the English capital. In conclusion, we can help you during your stay in England. Similarly, we can book you a private car or shuttle transfer to or from London’s major airports. As a result, book your attractions and organize your stay in England with us. Likewise, we are at your complete disposal. To sum up, good navigation and please remember if you do not find in our pages what you are looking for please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to help you.

London tour services: best top attractions

Must-see attractions in london.

Four fantastic attractions in London not to be missed. In particular, Harry Potter lovers you can’t miss the visit to these magical studios. Meanwhile, you should visit the was museum Madame Tussauds . Likewise, you can’t pass through the English capital without visiting the fantastic Tower of London  and Tower Bridge . At the same time, you have to admire the city from the famous London Eye . Finally, visit the city of London on an incredible bus tour . Likewise, an adventurous Thames River cruise

The Making of Harry Potter

Experience the magic of the fantastic world of Harry Potter

Tower of London

Visit one of the most famous historic castles in central London

Ascend to 135 meters into the London sky and enjoy its 360-degree view

London bus tour

Sit back and relax as a tour guide gives you insight into London’s most important attractions

Enjoy London and UK

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London by night

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Jason ropell outlines growth ambitions for mubi as he & ‘past lives’ producer christine vachon reflect on state of independent market: “with disruption comes great opportunity” — karlovy vary, breaking news.

Ian McKellen Pulls Out Of ‘Player Kings’ Tour “With The Greatest Reluctance” After Fall

By Max Goldbart

Max Goldbart

International TV Co-Editor

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British acting icon Ian McKellen has pulled out of the Player Kings tour following a June 17 onstage fall that saw him fracture his wrist and sustain other injuries.

The Lord of the Rings star had initially thought he could return to Player Kings once the UK leg of the tour started but the production has just shared a statement on social media announcing he will step down “with the greatest reluctance.”

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McKellen said he had been “so looking forward” to travelling with the production to Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.

The production said his place will be taken by understudy David Semark , who had already played the role of John Falstaff in Player Kings ‘ final three West End shows at the Noël Coward Theatre. The tour lasts through this month.

A performance of  Player Kings was canceled last month after McKellen fell from the stage, hurting his wrist and sustaining other injuries.

McKellen then exclusively told Deadline : “Doctors have assured  me that my recovery will be complete and speedy and I am looking forward to returning to work.”

With a career spanning more than six decades, the 85-year-old McKellen has received a Tony Award, six Olivier Awards, a Golden Globe, five BAFTA Awards, five Emmys and two Oscar nominations. A British cultural icon, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1991, and most famously played Gandalf in  Lord of the Rings.

Update on casting for the national tour of Player Kings (3 – 27 July 2024): pic.twitter.com/Ys1ZnjZXRH — Player Kings (@PlayerKingsPlay) July 1, 2024

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Eritrea’s Biniam Girmay becomes the first Black rider to win a Tour de France stage

Turin, Italy — Eritrea's Biniam Girmay became the first Black rider to win a Tour de France stage on Monday.

Girmay said his sprint win in the mostly flat third leg was “for all Africans.”

“We must be proud now. We are really part of the big races,” he said. “Now it’s our moment. It’s our time.”

Before the podium celebration, Girmay went over and greeted Eritrean fans waving their country’s green, red and blue flag.

“There is a whole continent that has been waiting for this," said Aike Visbeek, the performance director for Girmay’s Intermarche-Wanty team. "It’s been done now, and I hope it will open the floodgates for more riders from Africa. He’s an ambassador in every way.”

Meanwhile, Mark Cavendish’s pursuit of a record-breaking 35th stage win was postponed by a crash ahead of him in the finale, and Olympic champion Richard Carapaz took the yellow jersey from Tadej Pogacar , making him the first Ecuadorean to lead cycling's biggest race.

Girmay also made history in Italy two years ago when he won a stage at the Giro d’Italia to become the first Black African to take a victory in a Grand Tour. But Girmay’s Giro victory was marred when he was rushed to a hospital after getting hit in the left eye by a prosecco cork he popped open during the podium celebration — forcing him to abandon the race.

Also in 2022, Girmay became the first rider from a sub-Saharan country to win a single-day classic at the Gent-Wevelgem race .

Riders from only one other African country — South Africa — have won Tour stages: Robert Hunter (2007) and Daryl Impey (2019). Four-time Tour champion Chris Froome was born and raised in Kenya but represented Britain.

The 231-kilometer (144-mile) leg from Piacenza to Turin — the longest stage of this Tour — provided the first chance for a mass sprint. There will be at least a handful of other opportunities for sprinters as the race prepares to cross back into France following the first four stages in Italy.

With time to start raising his arms before he crossed the line, Girmay finished just ahead of Fernando Gaviria and Arnaud De Lie.

Cavendish has been tied with Eddy Merckx on 34 wins for three years and put off retirement to try again this year to break the record.

Members of the Israel-Premier Tech team fell ahead of Cavendish, who crossed 113th but was given the same finishing time as Girmay as per rules that neutralize the times in case of crashes in the final five kilometers.

“I was just looking to stay up. I’m too little to see what’s going on but I could hear it,” Cavendish said. "Someone skidded and I was just waiting for someone to hit from behind. Luckily they didn’t and we kind of got through, but we were way off it and with 2.5K to go we were out of it. I don’t think anybody was seriously hurt and that’s the main thing.”

Cavendish complimented Girmay, who won a reduced sprint.

“That’s just massive. Cycling is massive in Eritrea. It’s super good for him and for African cycling," Cavendish said. "He’s a legend, isn’t he?”

Pogacar dropped to second overall, with the same time as Carapaz.

Remco Evenepoel — the 2022 world champion and Spanish Vuelta winner — is third overall; and two-time defending champion Jonas Vingegaard is fourth, both also with the same time as Carapaz.

Danish rider Casper Pedersen had to abandon the race after falling with 15 kilometers to go and breaking his collarbone.

The race crosses back into France on Tuesday during Stage 4, the first big mountain leg going up to Sestriere and over the Col du Galibier — one of the Tour’s classic climbs — in the 140-kilometer (87-mile) route from Pinerolo to Valloire.

Pogacar, who won the Tour in 2020 and 2021, and Vingegaard will be favored to take the yellow jersey from Carapaz, who won the Giro in 2019 before taking gold in Tokyo three years ago.

"Tomorrow will be a big day,” Carapaz said. “It will be complicated. I’m going to try and give everything. I’m going to try and enjoy every single moment in the yellow jersey.”

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

This £25 London tour is officially better than ‘life-changing’ bucket list attraction

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Visitors to London are spoilt for choice when finding fun stuff to see and do, whether it’s a walk through Hyde Park or a visit to one of our incredible museums .

But one activity has beaten some extremely stiff competition to be named one of the best tourist attractions – not just in the capital or the UK, but across the globe.

Review site Tripadvisor recently released the winners its 2024 Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best awards experiences, and Britain’s reputation as an in-demand destination is firmly intact with 11 UK entries featured in various lists. 

Our reputation as a nation who loves a trip to the boozer is also going nowhere, as Blighty was represented in the category of ‘top experiences’ by a good old-fashioned pub tour.

With a seriously impressive 5/5 score, the Small-Group Historical Pub Walking Tour of London came in 19th in the ranking, which takes into account the the quality and quantity of reviews posted on Tripadvisor over a one-year period.

To put this into perspective, the activity finished above Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching in Alaska – something described by user Chuckr684 as ‘life-changing’ – as well as the gorgeous Cappadocia Balloon Rides in Goreme, Turkey. 

The UK is known for its pub culture, but this historical tour of the capital leaves guests feeling especially satisfied according to the ratings; it’s recommended by 99% of travellers who gave it a score of four or higher. 

According to its official description, the tour gives visitors ‘a local’s perspective of London’ in small groups for half a day. There’s also an opportunity to try a range of local brews, see hotspots like St Paul’s Cathedral, Fleet Street, Prince Henry’s Room and Covent Garden, and hear stories over a pint for £25 per adult (although drinks must be purchased at your own expense). 

One US-based reviewer, Ctcurry23, gushed, ‘Only take this tour if you want a perfect afternoon in London,’ while MelissapX1299RI shared: ‘We had the most amazing day with our guide, and I highly recommend this tour for anyone looking for some history and fun!’

Experiences weren’t the only category where the UK shone either.

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Alton Towers in Staffordshire finished 8th and The Milky Way Adventure Park in Clovelly, Devon, was 12th in the ‘amusement and water parks’ worldwide list, followed by Drayton Manor in Tamworth, Staffordshire, in 20th place. 

Although we don’t have the best reputation when it comes to cuisine, Scotland ensured we still garnered props in the ‘food and drink’ field. Edinburgh’s The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience finished in 4th position, above a local tapas and wine rooftop experience in Madrid and a Florence pasta class at a Tuscan Farm . 

Another in which we performed well was ‘water sports’, which included London’s High-Speed River Speedboat (10th) and the Whitewater Rafting Adventure in Llangollen (20th). 

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With all these options right on our doorstep, you might want to book your summer staycation now.

Tripadvisor's top travel experiences for 2024

• The Unvanquished Tour of Porto City Center, Portugal
• All-Inclusive Ubud Private Tour, Indonesia
• All-Inclusive Amsterdam Canal Cruise by Captain Jack, Netherlands
• Small Group Explore Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour from Siem Riep, Cambodia
• Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour, Mexico
• Renaissance and Medici Tales of Florence, Italy
• Classic Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu, Peru
• Budapest Danube Cruise, Hungary
• Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi, Vietnam
• Snorkelling Between Tectonic Plates, Iceland
• Oahu Circle Island Tours, Hawaii
• Dubai Red Dune Desert Safari, United Arab Emirates
• Madrid Essential Tour, Spain
• Honolulu Xtreme Parasail, Hawaii
• History and Hauntings of Salem Walking Tour, USA
• Blue Cave Small Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Dubai to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Ultimate Island Jeep Safari, Aruba
• Historical Pub Walking Tour of London, UK
• Communa 13 Graffiti and Street Food Tour, Colombia
• Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching, USA
• Cappadocia Balloon Ride and Champagne Breakfast, Turkey
• Krakow to Xakopane Thermal Hot Bath Day Trip, Poland
• Zipline Cape Town from Foot of Table Mountain, South Africa
• Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour, Poland

You can find the full list here .

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Pearl Jam cancel more tour dates due to illness

Pearl Jam say that "despite everyone's best efforts" the band "has yet to make a full recovery", adding they don't take "these decisions lightly" after calling off the gigs in Berlin, just days after cancelling a date at London's Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Arts and entertainment reporter @BethanyMinelle

Tuesday 2 July 2024 09:38, UK

Pearl Jam have cancelled two more tour dates due to illness, after pulling out of a London gig last week.

The rock group had been due to play in Berlin on Tuesday and Wednesday but called it off because "the band has yet failed to make a full recovery".

The type of illness, or which band members have been affected, has not been revealed.

They said tickets would be refunded at point of purchase, adding that while they wished "a reschedule had been possible for this tour leg" they "hope to come back to Berlin soon".

On Friday, they cancelled their Tottenham Hotspur Stadium show scheduled for Saturday night due to illness in the band, saying they had "no other option".

The band said in a statement shared on Instagram: "We are sorry to share that the Pearl Jam concerts scheduled for Tuesday, July 2nd and Wednesday, July 3rd in Berlin are cancelled.

"Despite everyone's best efforts, the band has yet to make a full recovery."

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They went on: "The impacts of this decision are not lost on us. We feel deeply that so many people spend their time, money, and emotional energy to get tickets and then to come see the band and it is heart wrenching to have to disappoint you.

"We also appreciate the many people whose hard work goes into making these shows happen."

"Please trust we never take these decisions lightly and try to do everything possible to show up for you all."

The statement concluded: "Thank you for continued understanding and support, it means the world."

The band, which formed in Seattle, Washington, in 1990, is fronted by Eddie Vedder, along with lead guitarist Mike McCready, drummer Matt Cameron, bass guitarist Jeff Ament and rhythm guitarist Stone Gossard.

They are currently touring the world to promote their latest album, Dark Matter.

Support acts include former Verve frontman Richard Ashcroft and Irish indie rockers The Murder Capital.

Their next live show is currently scheduled for 6 July in Barcelona.

The band are set to launch the US leg of their tour on 26 August.

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