Climb The O2 Arena & See London’s Main Sights Walking Tour

Discover London with an Exciting Mix of Walking and Climbing Adventures

This 6-hour tour in London offers a unique way to explore the city’s famous sights on foot, followed by an exhilarating climb up The O2 Arena. Priced at $161.77 per person, it includes admission to the O2 climb and a guided walk through London’s most iconic locations. The tour is designed for those who enjoy a mix of culture, history, and a dash of adventure, making it ideal for thrill-seekers and curious explorers alike.

Starting at The Ritz London, the tour begins with a comprehensive walking route that covers landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and the Houses of Parliament. After absorbing the city’s sights on foot, the experience shifts gears with a safety-guided climb up The O2 Arena, which promises spectacular views of London from a vantage point most locals won’t see. The entire experience is curated to maximize both sightseeing and excitement, with small groups to ensure personal attention.

Key Points

• Includes a guided walking tour of central London featuring major sights like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey.
• Climb up The O2 Arena with all safety gear and expert supervision included in the price.
• Visit over 30 top London sights in a single day, with walking segments led by a knowledgeable guide.
• Start at The Ritz and end near the O2 in Peninsula Square, with easy access to public transport.
• Tour duration is approximately 6 hours, with a mix of sightseeing, walking, and climbing.
• Small group size (max 15) ensures a personalized experience and better engagement.

Starting Point and Schedule

This tour departs from The Ritz London at 10:00 am, located at 150 Piccadilly. The guide leads you through early landmarks like Buckingham Palace, where stories of the Royal Family add context to the stunning architecture. The walk then takes you to Trafalgar Square, Horse Guards Parade, and Whitehall, where the historic Downing Street and government buildings await.

The schedule includes time for photos and brief stops at famous landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye. After the walking route, there’s a short underground journey to Southbank, home to Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. The walk continues along the Thames before heading to Borough Market for local food and a peek at Southwark Cathedral.

Exploring the Major London Sights on Foot

The first part of the tour focuses on London’s most recognizable landmarks. Buckingham Palace is the initial stop, where the guide shares stories of British royal history. On certain days, guests may watch the Changing of the Guard—a spectacle that occurs Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 10 am—though schedules are set by the British Army and may change.

Moving along the Royal Mall, the group reaches Trafalgar Square, where Nelson’s Column and the fountains create a lively atmosphere. The group then visits Horse Guards Parade, with its iconic arch, before heading to Whitehall to see Downing Street and other grand government buildings. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are next, offering impressive views of the Palace of Westminster and nearby sights like the London Eye and Churchill Statue.

Visiting Westminster Abbey and Southbank’s Cultural Hotspots

The tour continues with a visit to Westminster Abbey, a building that has hosted British monarchs’ coronations for over 1000 years. The guide points out the Abbey’s stunning architecture and highlights its significance in British history. Afterward, the group takes a quick underground trip to Southbank, a lively area filled with cultural venues such as Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

Walking along the Thames, visitors enjoy views of Millennium Bridge—locally known as Wobbly Bridge—which offers a scenic route to St. Paul’s Cathedral. From here, the group heads to Borough Market, a bustling food market known for local delicacies and secret Harry Potter filming locations. The market visit is a highlight for food lovers and those interested in film lore.

Iconic Sights at London Bridge and the Shard

Next, the group visits London Bridge, renowned for its views of Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and HMS Belfast. The Shard skyscraper also looms nearby, offering a modern contrast to historic London. The walking segment concludes at Square Mile, London’s financial district, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Climbing the O2 Arena for Panoramic Views

The final part of the adventure takes you to The O2 Arena, a world-famous entertainment venue. The admission ticket included allows you to safely climb up the arena’s roof with expert guidance. The climb lasts approximately one hour, during which you ascend the largest tent structure in the world for breathtaking panoramic views of London’s skyline.

While the guide does not accompany visitors during the climb, clear instructions and tickets are provided at the end of the walking tour. The climb offers sights of the London Eye, The Shard, and the City of London from a vantage point only accessible via this guided experience.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour keeps the group small—maximum 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience. The meeting point at The Ritz is easily accessible via public transportation, and the tour ends at Peninsula Square, close to transport links to the O2 and central London.

The climb at The O2 is scheduled after the walking tour, with tickets and directions provided at the end of the sightseeing route. The cost of transport to the O2 (around £5) is not included in the tour price, so travelers should prepare accordingly.

Tour Inclusions and Limitations

Included in the $161.77 fee are admission tickets for the O2 climb, a guided walking tour of 30+ London sights, and a small group experience. The guide shares stories and insights throughout the walk, enhancing the sightseeing.

Not included are snacks, drinks, lunch, or transportation to and from the hotel. The Changing of the Guard is available Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 10 am, but this may be subject to changes by the British Army.

Realistic Expectations from the Tour Experience

While the tour is highly rated with a 5.0/5 from 23 reviews, one review mentions a miscommunication regarding the O2 climb, noting that the guide did not assist with transportation to the arena. However, the overall consensus remains positive, emphasizing the spectacular views from the climb and the expert storytelling of the guide during the walk.

The small group size and comprehensive itinerary make this tour suitable for those who want a full day of sightseeing with a mix of culture and adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for people with moderate physical fitness who enjoy walking and a bit of physical activity like climbing.

Climbing The O2 and Seeing London from Above

The highlight for many is definitely the climb up The O2. The ticket is included, and it offers an unmatched perspective of London’s skyline. The climb is supervised by experts, ensuring safety throughout the ascent. The views from the top showcase London’s mix of historic and modern architecture, making it a memorable part of the day.

Travelers should note that tickets for the climb are separate from the guide-led tour but are handed out at the end of the walking segment. The climb lasts about an hour and provides an excellent photo opportunity with some of London’s most famous landmarks in sight.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

This London sightseeing tour provides a rich blend of history, culture, and adventure all in one day. The guided walk ensures comprehensive coverage of London’s top sights, while the climb up The O2 adds an adrenaline rush and stunning panoramic views.

At $161.77, the price reflects both the guided experience and the admission to the O2 climb. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make it a particularly personal experience, ideal for visitors who want to see a broad swath of London’s highlights without rushing.

This tour is a smart choice for visitors seeking a balanced combination of sightseeing and physical activity, especially those interested in getting a new perspective on London from high above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour fee?
The fee includes a guided walking tour of over 30 London sights, tickets for the climb up The O2 Arena, and a small group experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at The Ritz London and ends in Peninsula Square, near the O2 Arena.

How long does the walk last?
The walking segment lasts approximately 4 hours, covering major landmarks and cultural sites.

Is the climb up The O2 suitable for all?
The climb requires moderate physical fitness. Safety gear and supervision are provided, but participants should be comfortable with heights and physical activity.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, the tour does not include snacks, drinks, or lunch. Visitors should plan to bring their own or purchase at local stops.

Can the guide assist with transportation during the tour?
The guide helps with directions and tickets after the walk but does not accompany guests during the climb or assist with transportation to the O2.

What about the Changing of the Guard?
This ceremony occurs Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 10 am. Watching it is optional and depends on scheduling.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While suitable for most visitors with moderate physical fitness, those with young children or mobility issues should consider the climb’s physical demands.

What if I want to cancel?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

How accessible is the tour?
The tour is near public transportation, making it convenient to reach from various parts of London.

This tour strikes a balance between sightseeing, history, and thrill, making it a compelling choice for those who want to see London from many angles in a single day.