London: The London Top Sights Tour. Kids Free!

Exploring London with the Top Sights Tour: A Practical Guide

Imagine walking through the heart of London, ticking off more than 30 major landmarks in just five hours. That’s exactly what the London Top Sights Tour offers. Starting outside the grand Ritz Hotel, this small-group adventure takes you past Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and along the historic South Bank. The tour costs around $87.55 per person, with kids under 12 joining free, and lasts approximately five hours—making it a compact way to see some of the city’s most beloved sights.

What we love about this tour is how it combines walking, photo opportunities, and stories from a lively local guide—making history feel lively and fun. The stops at Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard (on select days) and Tower Bridge are real highlights, offering a chance for memorable photos and fresh insights. Also, the small group size makes it easier to stay engaged and ask questions, creating a more personal experience.

However, a potential downside is the pace—with so many sights packed into five hours, it can feel rushed if you prefer a leisurely exploration. It’s best suited for energetic travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of navigating on their own, especially families with kids who can join free and enjoy the lively, engaging storytelling.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, family-friendly way to see London’s top landmarks—especially if it’s your first visit—this tour offers an excellent introduction, balancing scope with intimacy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage of over 30 iconic London landmarks in just five hours
• Knowledgeable local guide enhances storytelling and engagement
• Kids under 12 free, making it family-friendly and economical
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Starting point near Green Park makes it easy to access via public transport
• Limited to walking, so comfortable shoes are a must

The Details of the London Top Sights Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off outside the Ritz London (150 Piccadilly), a location that screams elegance and is easy to spot. You’ll meet your guide next to the red telephone boxes and souvenir stands, right under the Ritz sign, with Green Park Underground station just a short walk away. The convenience of the location means you can plan your morning around it, and it’s a central starting point for exploring the West End.

The Route and Key Stops in Detail

Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

Your first major stop is Buckingham Palace, where you’ll have about 30 minutes for photos and sightseeing. The highlight here is witnessing the Changing of the Guard—a spectacle of precision and tradition (on certain days and times). We loved the way the guide explained the history behind this ceremony, making it more than just a photo opportunity.

Note that this part of the tour only happens on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10 am. Weather can sometimes cancel or alter the ceremony, so be prepared for a possible change in plans. Still, even without the guard change, just standing in front of the palace is a thrill.

Westminster and Nearby Landmarks

Next, the tour heads through Green Park and up the Royal Mews, passing Prince Charles’ residence, Clarence House. The walk along The Mall takes you to Trafalgar Square and the statues of Admiral Nelson and King George VI. This area is lively, with street performers and cultural buzz.

From there, you’ll stroll down Whitehall, past Downing Street, and arrive at Parliament Square. Here, you’ll see Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament—all iconic symbols of London’s political and religious history.

We appreciated how the guide highlighted the stories behind these buildings, making the sights more meaningful than just a photo stop. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, which is enough to take pictures and get a sense of the area’s grandeur.

From Westminster to the South Bank

The next leg takes you toward London Bridge and onto the South Bank. Along the way, you’ll pass Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, HMS Belfast, and enjoy views of Tower Bridge. This part of the tour is lively, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the river and the city skyline.

Walking along the Thames, you get a sense of London’s bustling, vibrant energy—something we particularly enjoyed. This stretch also offers insights into London’s maritime history and how the city evolved around the river.

Tower of London and Tower Bridge

The final major stops include Tower Bridge and the nearby Tower of London. You’ll get about 15 minutes at each, enough to admire the architecture, snap photos, and hear snippets of their stories. The Tower of London’s history as a royal palace, prison, and treasure vault makes it a fascinating highlight.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a lively local guide and access to 30+ sights, all in a comfortable small group. Kids under 12 are free, which makes it particularly good for families. It’s a walk-only tour—so no transportation or food is included—so plan to bring snacks or water if needed.

Practical Considerations

Starting at Green Park station makes it easy to include this tour in your London itinerary. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking for most of the day—and bring an umbrella, just in case. Since large bags aren’t allowed, travel light.

The tour ends back at the starting point, making it simple to continue exploring or return to your hotel. If you’re considering the Changing of the Guard, note that it only happens on specific days and times.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

One of the things we found most reassuring was the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guide. While a couple of reviews mention that the guide in their experience wasn’t as engaging, others, like one reviewer, praised Nicholas as an excellent guide who made the tour interesting and fun.

It’s clear that the guide’s personality can make a difference—so if you love lively storytelling, you might want to confirm who will lead your tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is particularly suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of London’s highlights. Families with children will appreciate that kids are free, although the pace may be brisk for very young children or those who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing experience. It’s also ideal for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing in a limited amount of time without the hassle of navigating alone.

Final Thoughts

The London Top Sights Tour offers a well-rounded, energetic way to see London’s most famous landmarks in a manageable timeframe. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a guided experience that brings the city’s stories to life, with the added benefit of a small group for intimacy and interaction.

While the speed might not suit everyone—especially those who prefer a more relaxed, deeper exploration—the value in covering so many sights with a knowledgeable guide is hard to beat. Perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a quick but comprehensive London experience, this tour balances practicality with a lively, authentic feel.

Whether you’re here for a brief visit or want a solid orientation, this tour helps you get your bearings and leaves you with plenty of memories—and photos—to cherish.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about five hours, allowing for a thorough exploration of over 30 major sights.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts outside The Ritz London at 150 Piccadilly and ends back at the same location.

Is the Changing of the Guard part of the tour?
Yes, but only on the 10 am tour on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. It’s weather-dependent and subject to schedule changes.

Are children allowed?
Yes, kids under 12 can join for free—just let the guide know when booking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, an umbrella, some cash for extras, and food/drinks if desired. Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What’s included in the price?
A fun local guide, access to over 30 sights, and a small group experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it’s a walking-only tour, so be prepared for some brisk walking.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now, pay later options are available for flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here: