Sir Winston Churchill Private Walking Tour & War Rooms

Exploring London through the lens of Winston Churchill offers a compelling journey into Britain’s wartime past. This private walking tour, priced at $269.15 per person, lasts approximately 4 hours and is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to see London’s iconic landmarks associated with Churchill’s life and leadership. It includes hotel pickup, group discounts, and entry to the Churchill War Rooms, making it a comprehensive and personalized experience.

The tour’s highlights include visits to Churchill’s childhood home, 10 Downing Street, and his favorite cigar shop, along with countless monuments and locations tied to his legacy. The guide’s depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling turn a sightseeing walk into a vivid history lesson. While the tour covers many significant sites, it involves quite a bit of walking, so it suits those comfortable with active exploration.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour focusing on Winston Churchill’s life and WWII role
• Includes entry to the Churchill War Rooms, preserved as in 1945
• Visits notable London locations such as Piccadilly Circus, Burlington Arcade, and St. James’s Palace
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling
• Walking pace allows exploration of areas often missed by larger tours
• Tour departs from The Criterion Theatre and ends just outside the War Rooms

Starting Point at Piccadilly Circus and the Statue of Eros

The tour begins at Piccadilly Circus, one of London’s most lively and recognizable spots, where the statue of Eros stands prominently. Here, the guide explains its significance during times of war and celebration, setting the stage for the journey through London’s wartime history. It’s a quick 2-minute stop, but a great photo opportunity and a chance to understand London’s wartime symbolism.

Walking along Regent Street to Mayfair’s Historic Sites

From Piccadilly, the tour proceeds along Regent Street, exploring the famous Mile of Style as it transitions into the elegant Mayfair area. The walk covers about five minutes and highlights London’s shopping and historic districts. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the city’s architecture and how it intertwined with Churchill’s life, since many locations reflect famous periods in his career.

Visiting Savile Row and Henry Poole & Co

A highlight of this walk is Savile Row, world-renowned for bespoke tailoring. The guide points out where Churchill, and even the Queen, had their clothes made. The stop at Henry Poole & Co, a prestigious tailor with a well-known Churchill story, offers insight into Churchill’s personal style and his affinity for fine clothing. While the visit to the tailor shop itself is brief (about 2 minutes), it adds a personal touch to Churchill’s image.

Churchill and Roosevelt Allies Sculpture and Burlington Arcade

At the Churchill and Roosevelt Allies Sculpture, travelers can snap photos of the wartime allies in a high-end London setting. This location emphasizes Churchill’s alliance with Franklin D. Roosevelt during WWII. The tour also includes a 10-minute visit to Burlington Arcade, a stunning shopping arcade that Churchill appreciated for its luxury. Here, visitors get a sense of Churchill’s taste for the finer things, as he famously preferred high-quality goods.

Visiting Turnbull & Asser and Spencer House

The tour takes you to Turnbull & Asser, a premier tailor where Churchill’s Siren suit from WWII is displayed (shop closed on Sundays and holidays). It’s a rare glimpse into Churchill’s wardrobe. Moving on, Spencer House, Churchill’s childhood home, offers a personal look at his early years and family life. While the house is not open for entry, the exterior view and historical context enrich the narrative.

Exploring Lock & Co. Hatters and Cigars at James J. Fox & Robert Lewis

Travelers visit Lock & Co. Hatters, London’s oldest hat shop, which supplied Churchill with headgear. Nearby, James J. Fox & Robert Lewis provide insight into Churchill’s cigar habits; this shop supplied cigars to the British Royal Family and Napoleon. If available, visitors can sit in Churchill’s preferred smoking chair or purchase a cigars-related souvenir. These stops highlight Churchill’s personal style and habits.

Royal and Military Monuments: St. James’s Palace, King George VI Memorial, and Charles De Gaulle Statue

A series of important monuments follow: St. James’s Palace, the royal residence above Buckingham Palace; the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Memorial, depicting Britain’s wartime monarchs; and the Charles De Gaulle Statue, honoring the French leader and Churchill’s complex relationship with France during WWII. These stops deepen understanding of Churchill’s diplomatic and royal ties.

The Reform Club and Carlton House Terrace

Next, the Reform Club, where Churchill was a member, offers insight into his social life and political connections. The walk continues to Carlton House Terrace, home to monuments related to the Battle of Britain and the unique Nazi memorial, which reflects the complex historical context of WWII and Churchill’s leadership.

Memorials to War Heroes: Sir Keith Park and Giro the Dog

The guide highlights Sir Keith Park’s Memorial, honoring the air officer credited with crucial contributions to the Battle of Britain. Plus, the story of Giro, the German ambassador’s dog, introduces an unusual Nazi memorial in Britain, showcasing the quirks of wartime commemoration.

The Mall, Admiralty Arch, and Trafalgar Square

On The Mall, the tour passes a WW2 remnant still visible today. Stops at Admiralty Arch reveal where Churchill worked during WWI, and Trafalgar Square features statues of Lord Nelson, emphasizing Britain’s military history. These locations provide a broader context of Britain’s military resilience.

Government and Military Sites: Ministry of Defence and Horse Guards Parade

The group visits the Ministry of Defence and the War Office, where Churchill’s wartime decisions were made, along with statues of WWII generals. At Horse Guards Parade, the tour covers Churchill’s wartime military headquarters and discusses his dislike for certain wartime sites, adding personal anecdotes.

Commemorating WWII and Churchill: The Cenotaph, Churchill Statue, and Parliament Square

The Cenotaph stands as Britain’s primary war memorial; the Winston Churchill Statue offers a prime photo opportunity, and Parliament Square showcases Churchill’s influence on British politics. Visitors can view the church where Churchill married and get a sense of his enduring legacy.

The Churchill War Rooms: Final Stop Underground in WWII Bunker

The tour concludes at the Churchill War Rooms, an authentic underground bunker used by Churchill during WWII. Preserved as it was in 1945, this site provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to see the planning rooms, maps, and communication centers Churchill used during the war. Entry is included in the tour, and the visit lasts about an hour.

Practical Aspects and Logistics of the Churchill Tour

The tour begins at The Criterion Theatre on Piccadilly and ends just outside the Churchill War Rooms. It involves walking through central London’s historic districts, with stops at numerous landmarks. The tour includes hotel pickup and entry tickets to the War Rooms, but does not cover transportation via London Underground.

The group is private, meaning only your party participates, which allows for a customized and flexible experience. Most reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially Martin and Kevin, whose storytelling and expertise bring London’s history and Churchill’s story to life. The walk is paced to balance sightseeing and storytelling, making it suitable for most physically capable travelers.

Value and Booking Tips

At $269.15, this tour offers comprehensive access to many sites associated with Churchill and WWII. Booking up to 74 days in advance ensures a spot, and cancellations are free if done 24 hours prior. The tour’s reviews consistently praise the guides for their engaging manner and deep knowledge, making it worth the price for those interested in Churchill, WWII, or London’s history overall.

Final Advice for Potential Attendees

Participants should wear comfortable clothing and expect a good amount of walking, though the pace remains relaxed and engaging. The tour is ideal for history buffs, WWII enthusiasts, and those who appreciate detailed storytelling combined with London sightseeing. It suits individuals or groups seeking a personalized, in-depth exploration of Churchill’s London and his wartime legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a local professional guide, private tour experience, hotel pickup, and entry tickets to the Churchill War Rooms.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 hours, with the walk and site visits, and includes about an hour inside the War Rooms.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Criterion Theatre in Piccadilly and concludes just outside the Churchill War Rooms.

Is transportation to each site provided?
No, the tour involves walking between locations, and transportation via London Underground is not included.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, guides are open to tailoring the experience to your interests and pace.

Are the Churchill War Rooms included in the tour?
Yes, admission to the War Rooms is included, and entry is generally scheduled between 12.45-1.45 pm.

What type of guide leads the tour?
The tour is led by knowledgeable, engaging guides, with excellent reviews highlighting their storytelling skills and deep expertise.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, as the pace is moderate, and children interested in WWII or history will find it engaging. However, consider the walking distance and the age of children.

What should I wear on the tour?
Casual clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended, given the walking involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.