London: Top 30 Sights Walking Tour and The Shard Entry

Explore London’s most iconic landmarks on a comprehensive 7-hour walking tour priced at $114.49 per person. This experience combines a guided exploration of top sights like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and more, with an admission ticket to The Shard, Europe’s tallest building. The tour begins from outside the Ritz London, with a small group size that ensures personalized attention from a local guide passionate about the city’s stories.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a detailed walking itinerary covering 30 landmarks and the chance to see London from high above on The Shard’s observation decks. The high-speed elevators take you up 6 meters per second to two indoor viewing floors and an open-air skydeck, providing breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. While the tour offers a fantastic overview of London’s highlights, it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and eager to see many sights in one day.

Key Points

• Includes entrance ticket to The Shard with access to observation decks and skydeck.
• Guided walking tour covers 30 major landmarks across London, including Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge.
• Start point at The Ritz London, next to Green Park station.
• Tour duration is 7 hours, with a flexible schedule and live English-speaking guide.
• Visit popular spots like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, London Eye, and more.
• Small group experience ensures personalized storytelling and attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting from The Ritz London: The Tour’s Meeting Point

The tour kicks off outside The Ritz London, marked by two red telephone boxes nearby. The closest tube station is Green Park, making it convenient for travelers arriving by public transport. Once booked, a confirmation email provides clear instructions on where to meet, ensuring a smooth start to your day.

The initial part of the tour involves a walking exploration of central London, with stops at key landmarks. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making it easy to plan other activities after the tour.

Exploring London’s Top 30 Landmarks on Foot

The guided walking tour takes you through Westminster, Whitehall, and London Bridge areas, providing insights and stories about each site. Your guide leads you through notable stops such as Trafalgar Square, Horse Guards Parade, and Downing Street, which includes photo stops and brief guided visits.

Westminster Abbey is a highlight, where a 20-minute guided tour offers a glimpse into its history and architecture. The itinerary also includes photo stops at Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, and St Paul’s Cathedral, giving you plenty of chances to capture memorable moments.

The tour also covers modern sights like the London Eye and historic sites such as Borough Market, HMS Belfast, and Tower of London, ensuring a well-rounded experience of London’s diverse architecture and history.

Visiting Iconic Landmarks: From Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge

A key highlight is the photo stop at Buckingham Palace, where you may witness the Changing of the Guard if the schedule aligns (on selected days). The guide then directs you through Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, and Parliament Square, enriching your understanding of London’s political and cultural heart.

The walk continues past Horse Guards Parade, 10 Downing Street, and Westminster Abbey. After crossing London Bridge, the tour reaches Borough Market, a lively area perfect for a quick snack or photo opportunity.

The final stops include Southbank Centre, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and Whitehall, before heading to The Shard for the viewing experience.

The Shard Experience: Panoramic Views of London

After the walking portion, the tour guides lead visitors to The Shard, where you’ll spend about an hour exploring Europe’s tallest skyscraper. The high-speed elevators whisk you up to over two floors of indoor observation decks and an open-air skydeck.

From the observation decks, you enjoy stunning 360-degree views of London, ideal for appreciating landmarks like Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and the Thames River from a new perspective. The tickets are included in the tour price, allowing you to skip lines and maximize your viewing time.

It’s worth noting that guides will not accompany guests inside The Shard, but they will ensure a smooth transition and provide context before you ascend.

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Practical Details: Logistics, Group Size, and Tips

The tour includes a guided walking experience and entry to The Shard, but not transportation or snacks and drinks. Travelers should bring a topped-up Oyster card or contactless bank card for the Underground stops during the day.

The group size tends to be small, providing a more personalized experience. The tour is suitable for most guests who can comfortably walk and stand for periods. The meeting point is easy to find, and cancellation is free if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

The duration of 7 hours offers a thorough exploration without feeling rushed, but it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a day of sightseeing.

The Role of Guides in Delivering a Memorable Experience

The guides receive high praise for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to share engaging stories. Reviews highlight guides like Nathaniel, Henry, and Chris for their expertise and humor, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

One reviewer mentions Nathaniel’s deep research and storytelling, which added richness to the tour. Guides are also attentive to timing, ensuring guests get the best views and photo opportunities.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This combination of walking and high-rise viewing appeals to history buffs, architecture lovers, and first-time visitors eager to see London’s highlights efficiently. It’s especially suitable for those who want an overview of London’s major sights along with a breathtaking view from The Shard.

Because the tour involves considerable walking, those with mobility concerns may want to plan accordingly. The small group setting fosters a friendly atmosphere, making it a good choice for travelers seeking personalized guidance.

Why Choose This Tour? The Bottom Line

This 7-hour experience offers a compelling mix of sightseeing, history, and panoramic views. The cost includes both a guided tour of 30 landmarks and skip-the-line access to The Shard. The expert guides help bring London’s stories to life, ensuring the day feels engaging and informative.

While the tour does not include transportation or snacks, its comprehensive itinerary and incredible view from The Shard make it a valuable option for visitors wanting to maximize their time and experience in London. The high praise from past participants underscores its quality and appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves a good deal of walking and standing, so it’s best for older children or those comfortable with physical activity.

Are tickets to The Shard included?
Yes, the admission ticket to The Shard is included in the tour price, allowing guests to skip lines and enjoy the views.

What landmarks will we see during the walking tour?
You’ll see Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, Tower Bridge, and many others, totaling 30 sights.

Does the guide accompany me inside The Shard?
No, the guide guides you to The Shard, but does not accompany inside. You explore the observation decks independently.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts outside The Ritz London, next to two red telephone boxes, with Green Park station nearby.

How long is the walk?
The walking portion lasts approximately about 6 hours, covering many landmarks across central London.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refund is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there a small group option?
Yes, private groups can be accommodated, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a Travel card or contactless payment method for underground stops, and wear comfortable shoes.

Is this tour good for first-time visitors?
Absolutely — it provides a rundown of London’s highlights with a chance to see the city from The Shard.

This London: Top 30 Sights Walking Tour and The Shard Entry offers a well-rounded, engaging day packed with sightseeing and stunning views, perfect for those eager to see the city’s most famous landmarks with expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby