Secret London Private Taxi Tour

Get set for an exclusive journey through London’s lesser-known areas with the Secret London Private Taxi Tour. Priced at $630.62 per group, this half-day adventure lasts approximately 3 hours and offers a highly customizable experience in a classic London black cab. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 14 reviews and recommended by 100% of participants, this tour appeals to those who have already seen the main sights and want to go deeper into the city’s hidden stories and historic corners.

While the tour features pickup from central London and flexible departure times, it involves a good amount of walking to access some of the secret locations. This makes it ideal for visitors who enjoy exploring on foot and are curious about medieval gateways, Roman relics, and ancient houses that have survived the Great Fire of 1666.

Key Points

• Totally customizable itinerary allows adding unique sights and stops
• Private tour with a knowledgeable guide passing the renowned London Knowledge exam
• Travel in style aboard a classic black cab for comfort and style
• Includes hotel pickup and flexible scheduling
• Discover hidden gems like medieval streets, Roman walls, and secret courtyards
• Ages and mobility: most travelers can participate, but expect some walking

Exploring London’s Hidden History in a Classic Black Cab

This private taxi tour offers a unique look at London’s secret spots that most visitors overlook. The tour lasts about 3 hours and is designed for up to 6 people per group, making it perfect for small families, friends, or couples seeking an intimate experience. The price of $630.62 covers the entire group, and the tour can be booked 16 days in advance on average.

Drivers are highly experienced, with over 25 years of driving a London black cab and additional tour guiding qualifications. Their deep knowledge of London’s history, buildings, and stories ensures an engaging narrative throughout the journey. The guides also share personal anecdotes, making each tour feel tailored and lively.

Customizable Experience with Flexible Stops

One of the key features of this tour is the ability to add sights and stops based on personal interests. If there is a specific landmark or hidden corner you want to see, just inform the guide, and they will make it happen. This flexibility means your tour can focus on particular themes or areas, whether it’s medieval architecture, ancient ruins, or historic pubs.

If a stop grabs your attention, you can ask the guide to pause for photos or a closer look. The tour also includes opportunities for comfort breaks or quick refreshments, making it adaptable to your pace and preferences. All stops are part of the private experience, ensuring no distractions or crowds.

Discovering Medieval Gates and Secret Alleyways

The tour takes you to medieval gateways and a secret medieval street, offering a glimpse of London’s medieval past. These sites often escape the typical tourist trail, yet they stand as evidence of the city’s history. The narrow, cobbled streets evoke images of medieval London, with some locations surviving the Great Fire or built in its aftermath.

You’ll also see timber-framed buildings that have withstood 1666’s Great Fire, along with hidden courtyards and secret gardens that have remained largely unchanged over centuries. These tranquil spots provide a peaceful contrast to the bustling city and reveal a quieter side of London.

Roman Remains and Ancient Towers in the Heart of London

History enthusiasts will appreciate the Roman relics found within the city. The tour includes visits to Roman remains and a Roman tower, nestled among modern London streets. These ancient structures offer a tangible connection to the city’s origins as Londinium and highlight how the past is woven into the fabric of today’s London.

The guide explains the significance of each relic and their stories, making these historic sites come alive. Accessing some of these Roman remains involves a bit more walking, but the effort rewards visitors with a rare glimpse of London’s ancient history.

Surviving Structures from the Great Fire of 1666

The Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed much of the city, but several timber-framed buildings still stand today as examples of pre-fire architecture. The tour highlights these surviving structures, emphasizing their resilience and historical importance.

The guide shares stories about how these buildings endured the fire and what makes them special. Exploring these sites provides a more nuanced understanding of London’s architectural evolution and the resilience of its historic structures.

Dickensian Alleyways and 17th-Century Taverns

The tour ventures into narrow alleyways and back streets that Charles Dickens would have known. These historic alleyways still retain their old-world charm, with some hosting 17th-century taverns that have welcomed patrons for centuries.

Walking through these secret passageways feels like stepping back in time, giving visitors a sense of the literary and social history that shaped London’s character. These spots reveal the city’s less polished, more authentic past, far from the tourist-heavy streets.

The Oldest Parish Church and the Henry VIII Statue

A visit to London’s oldest parish church is a highlight, offering a journey back in time through centuries of religious and community history. The church’s architecture and preserved artifacts make it a quiet and absorbing stop.

In addition, the only statue of King Henry VIII in London features prominently in the tour, connecting visitors with the city’s royal history. The guide shares stories about these historic figures and sites, enriching the experience with context and detail.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What truly sets the Secret London Private Taxi Tour apart is its customizability and expert guides. Every aspect, from stops to pace, can be tailored to suit your interests, ensuring a personalized experience. The knowledgeable guides bring stories to life, making history feel immediate and engaging.

On top of that, the tour’s focus on hidden and lesser-known sites offers a fresh perspective on London, perfect for those who have already ticked off the main attractions or prefer exploring quieter, historic corners. The luxury of traveling in a classic black cab combines comfort with style, making the trip both practical and enjoyable.

Limitations to Consider

While the tour emphasizes hidden locations, some sites require additional walking. Participants should be comfortable on foot, especially when accessing narrow alleyways and secret courtyards. This is not a fully seated sightseeing experience—expect to get out of the cab and explore some areas on foot.

The cost of $630.62 for up to 6 people reflects the personalized nature of the tour, but it may seem steep for larger groups or those on a tighter budget. Still, the private, flexible, and knowledgeable experience provides significant value for those seeking an authentic, intimate look at London’s history.

The Sum Up: An Exclusive and Informative Glimpse into Old London

The Secret London Private Taxi Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore London’s hidden history and quiet corners in a comfortable, private setting. The customizable nature of the tour, combined with expert guides who hold a deep knowledge of London’s past, makes it an enriching choice for history buffs and curious visitors alike.

While it involves some walking and a premium price, the chance to see medieval gateways, Roman relics, and 17th-century taverns outside of the usual tourist spots makes it well worth considering. This tour is ideal for those wanting a personalized, intimate experience and eager to discover London’s secret stories.

In sum, the Secret London Private Taxi Tour provides a tailored, immersive journey into London’s quieter, historic side, with the opportunity to learn, see, and photograph places most visitors will never encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but expect some walking and outdoor exploring. Children comfortable with walking and listening to stories will enjoy the experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is totally customizable, allowing you to add stops or focus on specific interests.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private taxi transport, a knowledgeable guide, and hotel pickup from central London. Food and drinks are not included.

How long in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 16 days in advance for availability, especially during peak times.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 6 people per group. For larger parties, book multiple taxis.

What if I want to stop for photos?
Stop opportunities are built into the tour; just inform the guide, and they’ll happily pause for photos.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, you can specify your preferred departure time to fit your schedule.

Is this tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
While generally suitable, some locations involve walking over uneven or narrow surfaces, so accessibility may vary.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.