Black Taxi Tour Of London

The Black Taxi Tour of London offers an intimate and flexible way to explore the UK capital. Priced at $549.45 per group for up to six people, this 4-hour private experience is perfect for families, small groups, or anyone seeking a personalized sightseeing adventure. The tour departs from Embankment Place, and includes pickup and drop-off within 5 miles of Trafalgar Square, with the option to be collected from your hotel or Airbnb.

What truly makes this tour stand out are the spacious, accessible taxis with big windows and glazed roofs, allowing optimal views of London’s landmarks. The private guide driver is known for their extensive knowledge and friendly service, making your journey both informative and comfortable. While the tour is customizable, the fixed price offers great value considering the personalized approach and the private nature of the experience. The tour’s most notable limitation is that it does not include airport or port pickups, but these can be arranged at an extra cost.

This tour suits those who want a flexible, private, and in-depth look at London’s sights, especially if they prefer avoiding crowds or waiting for large tour groups. With 258 reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating, the Black Taxi Tour consistently earns praise for its knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and tailored itineraries. It’s a compelling choice for travelers who value comfort, customization, and local insights in their sightseeing.

Key Points

• Private, customizable London tour in a spacious black taxi
• Up to 6 travelers, with pick-up and drop-off included within 5 miles of Trafalgar Square
• 4-hour duration allows for visiting iconic landmarks and hidden gems
• Flat fare of $549.45 covers the entire group, offering excellent value
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach
• Accessible taxis with big windows and glazed roofs for optimal sightseeing

A Personalized London Experience in a Classic Black Taxi

The Black Taxi Tour of London provides a private, tailor-made exploration of the city. This tour allows groups of up to six to enjoy the flexibility of requesting specific stops, emphasizing landmarks or attractions that interest you most. The driver-guide acts as a dedicated host, sharing stories, history, and insights, making this a highly interactive experience.

The 4-hour itinerary begins at Embankment Place and can be customized to suit individual preferences. Whether you want to see the classic sights like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, or prefer discovering lesser-known locations, the guide adjusts to your interests. The flat fare means there are no surprises or hidden costs, making this a cost-effective option compared to larger bus tours.

Exploring Iconic Landmark Highlights: Apsley House and Wellington Arch

One of the earliest stops is Apsley House, home of the Duke of Wellington since 1825. This grand residence, located at Number One London, is a key historical site linked to Wellington’s military triumphs. Opposite is the Wellington Arch, which has undergone several transformations from a victory monument to a gate for Buckingham Palace.

The Wellington statue was once larger and stood at Number One London, but was moved after Queen Victoria’s reign. Today, the arch features a quadriga statue of Nike, the Goddess of Victory, atop one of the largest equestrian statues in Europe. This stop offers a glimpse into London’s monumental history and architectural grandeur.

Westminster Palace, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament

The tour includes iconic Westminster Palace, the seat of the UK Parliament. The structure has been rebuilt between 1834 and 1870, designed by Augustus Pugin and Charles Barry, and is home to both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

Big Ben, the renowned clock tower and bell, was renamed The Elizabeth Tower in 2012. Opened in 1859, it remains one of London’s most recognizable symbols. The clock’s Gothic Revival style makes it an architectural highlight visible from many parts of the city, and the tour offers a close-up view from your private taxi.

The Historic Significance of Downing Street

Downing Street, located near Whitehall and the Thames, is the home of the UK Prime Minister at Number 10, and the Chancellor of the Exchequer at Number 11. Built in 1680 by Sir George Downing, the street has been a political hub for centuries, offering a unique perspective on London’s government districts.

The tour passes by this iconic street, giving a sense of the powerful institutions housed within, and providing a chance to see the exteriors of the Prime Minister’s residence, which is otherwise not open to the public.

Westminster Abbey: Coronations, Royal Weddings, and Royalty Burials

Westminster Abbey, officially the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter, has been the site of every Coronation since William the Conqueror. Founded in 960 AD, the Gothic structure was extensively rebuilt in the 13th century under Henry III.

The Abbey has also hosted sixteen royal weddings and is the final resting place for many British monarchs. The big Gothic windows and historical tombs make it a must-see on the tour. Its Grade One listing and status as a World Heritage Site emphasize its importance in London’s history.

Crossing the Historic Bridges of London

The tour features several historic bridges spanning the Thames. The original London Bridge, built between 1176-1209, was once Europe’s longest inhabited bridge, hosting shops, houses, and even a chapel. Today, the third London Bridge stands as a modern structure.

Tower Bridge, constructed between 1886 and 1894, is famous for its bascule and suspension design, often called the Wonder Bridge. The tour offers views of these engineering marvels, capturing their blend of history and functionality.

The Victoria Embankment and Riverside Landmarks

Stretching from Palace of Westminster to Blackfriars Bridge, the Victoria Embankment features memorials like the Battle of Britain, and hosts retired vessels such as the HMS President. Built between 1865-1870 under Joseph Bazalgette, it transformed the riverfront and provides scenic views along the Thames.

The route along the Embankment includes a look at the Victoria Gardens and the Embankment Gardens, perfect for appreciating London’s public spaces and riverfront history.

St Paul’s Cathedral: From Medieval to the Present

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most recognizable structures, with four previous cathedrals built on the same site since 604 AD. The current building, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, dates from 1675 to 1710.

Notable for its massive dome at 365 feet, it was once the largest building in the UK until the Great Fire of London in 1666. The interior and exterior architecture demonstrate the Baroque style, and the tour offers views from outside, with an emphasis on its historical and architectural significance.

The Flexibility and Customization of the Tour

The Black Taxi Tour is praised for its personalized approach. Guests can request specific stops, explain their interests, or let the guide choose the route. This flexibility allows for a tailored experience that covers both main attractions and lesser-known sites.

The guide driver is known for extensive knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to adapt to various preferences. The private setting ensures comfort and no waiting on others, unlike large bus tours.

Accessibility and Comfort in a Private Taxi

The spacious, accessible taxis are designed for comfort, with big windows and a glazed roof to enhance sightseeing. These features make it easier to see and photograph landmarks, especially when the traffic or crowds can be challenging.

Plus, pick-up and drop-off from hotels or Airbnbs within 5 miles of Trafalgar Square makes this tour convenient for visitors staying centrally. Service animals are permitted, and the professional driver-guide ensures a safe and smooth journey throughout.

Why This Tour Continues to Earn a Perfect Score

With a 5.0 rating based on 258 reviews, this tour maintains a reputation for excellent service and value. Reviewers consistently highlight the guides’ knowledge, the flexibility of stops, and the stunning views from the taxis.

Many reviews mention the personalized nature of the experience, with guides like Bryan, Morris, Dave, and Tony receiving particular praise for their friendly attitude and depth of knowledge. The 4-hour format strikes a good balance between seeing many key sites and avoiding fatigue.

The Sum Up: A Private and Personalized London Tour

The Black Taxi Tour of London offers a unique, private experience that emphasizes customization, comfort, and insider knowledge. This tour is especially well-suited for those who want to avoid crowds, see both iconic and hidden sights, and enjoy a flexible itinerary tailored to their interests.

While it may lack early access to some sites or luxury extras, its competitive flat fare and personalized approach make it a great value for small groups. The spacious taxis with panoramic views provide a truly memorable way to explore London’s streets and landmarks.

This tour remains an excellent choice for families, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive introduction to the city. The consistent high ratings and glowing reviews reflect its trustworthiness and quality in providing a personalized London experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for small children or people with mobility issues?
Yes, the spacious, accessible taxis are designed to accommodate various needs, and the guide driver can adapt the route accordingly.

Can I customize the stops on the tour?
Absolutely, this tour is highly flexible. You can request specific sites, or explain your interests, and the guide will tailor the journey to match.

What landmarks are included in the standard route?
Key stops include Apsley House, Wellington Arch, Westminster Palace, Big Ben, Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, London Bridge, Tower Bridge, Victoria Embankment, and St Paul’s Cathedral.

How long does the tour last?
The 4-hour experience provides ample time to see major sights and enjoy a relaxed pace.

What is the price and what does it include?
The flat fee of $549.45 covers the entire group, including pickup and drop-off, private guide driver, and the use of accessible taxis.

Are airport pickups included?
No, airport collections are not included but can be arranged for an extra charge.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, it operates from July 7, 2020, to June 7, 2026, Monday through Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made through the provider, London Sightseeing Tours, via their contact details or the booking platform.

Would this tour suit someone interested in London’s history?
Definitely. Guides are praised for their extensive knowledge and ability to share fascinating stories about the city’s landmarks, past and present.