WW2 London Blitz Private Tour

Explore London’s WWII Landmarks with an Intimate Private Tour

The WW2 London Blitz Private Tour offers a compelling and personal way to explore the city’s wartime history. Priced at $239.50 per person, this 3-hour experience is designed for those who want a detailed and less crowded look at London during the Blitz era. The tour features pickup service, group discounts, and a private guide, ensuring a tailored experience that emphasizes the stories behind the sights.

This tour departs from Caffè Nero at Portcullis House and concludes at St. Paul’s Station, providing a convenient start and finish point in central London. With an average booking lead time of 91 days, it’s clear that this experience appeals to history enthusiasts and those seeking a well-structured, exclusive exploration of WWII landmarks. While it does not include transportation to each attraction, the walking route covers some of the most significant wartime sites, making it a manageable and rewarding stroll through London’s wartime past.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a professional guide
• Highlights major WWII landmarks in central London
• Includes free visits to memorials, statues, and parks
• Outside visits to Churchill War Rooms and 10 Downing Street
• Includes entry to Mudchute Park and Farm and Christchurch Greyfriars Church Garden
• Tour duration is approximately 3 hours, designed for moderate physical activity

Starting Point at Caffè Nero in Portcullis House

The tour begins at Caffè Nero located inside Portcullis House on Bridge Street. This meeting point offers easy access for travelers arriving via public transport or walking. The private nature of the tour means your group will enjoy undivided attention from the guide, making it ideal for those who prefer a more personal experience.

From here, the guide leads you through London’s streets on a route that covers both well-known and lesser-visited WWII sites. The pickup service enhances convenience, especially for visitors staying in central London, and the group discounts make it more affordable for families or small groups.

Visiting the Battle of Britain Monument

The first stop is the Battle of Britain Monument, situated just minutes from Big Ben and behind the War Office. This free monument honors those who fought in the critical aerial battle in 1940. The guide explains the significance of this memorial, giving context to the fierce air battles that defended Britain from invasion.

This location provides an impactful start to the tour, setting the scene with a focus on the aerial combat that marked the early stages of WWII. The short 5-minute stop allows for photographs and initial explanations, without feeling rushed.

Reflecting on the Cenotaph and War Memorials

Next, the tour visits the Cenotaph, London’s national War Memorial. This free site offers a somber moment for reflection on the sacrifices made during wartime. Again, the stop lasts about 5 minutes, giving enough time to appreciate the memorial’s symbolism.

The Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey are passed during the walk, with brief external views. While inside visits are not included, the guide shares insights into their importance during wartime, especially the role of the Parliament in wartime decision-making.

Standing Outside 10 Downing Street and Horse Guards Parade

The tour then takes you outside 10 Downing Street, where you can view the Prime Minister’s residence, both now and during Churchill’s leadership. This quick 5-minute stop emphasizes the political heart of wartime Britain.

Next, Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall offers a 10-minute stop at The Citadel, which was prepared as London’s last line of defense in case of invasion. The guide explains the military significance of this historic site, highlighting how London was prepared to resist an invasion under Nazi threat.

Viewing Churchill’s War Rooms from Outside

The Churchill War Rooms are a major highlight. Although the tour only visits from the outside, this famous bunker is where Winston Churchill directed wartime Britain. The guide provides insights into Churchill’s leadership and the importance of this underground HQ, which remained active during the bombing of London.

The 5-minute outside view offers a glimpse into the secret underground command center that played a pivotal role in WWII. Inside visits, which are not included, are available separately for those interested in a more detailed exploration.

Churchill’s Statue and Parliament Square

The Winston Churchill Statue is inspected next, depicting the Prime Minister inspecting bomb damage to Parliament during The Blitz. This free statue provides a striking visual of Churchill’s resolve amid the chaos.

The walk continues through Parliament Square, a historic hub of democracy and protest, with 10 minutes allocated to explore the surroundings and see some remaining signs of WWII air-raid shelters. The guide shares stories of London’s resilience during the Blitz.

Passing by the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey

While not entering, the guide points out the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, emphasizing their importance during wartime. The not included admission allows visitors to appreciate these iconic landmarks from outside with context provided by the guide.

Visiting Mudchute Park and Farm

The tour’s first paid entry stop is Mudchute Park and Farm, where a 3.7″ Ack Ack gun is displayed in an original emplacement. This 15-minute stop offers an authentic look at wartime defenses used to protect Millwall Docks from Luftwaffe attacks.

The gun and its emplacement illustrate the urban military efforts to defend vital infrastructure, adding a tangible element to the historical narrative.

Christchurch Greyfriars Church Garden as a Memorial Site

Next, the guide leads the group to Christchurch Greyfriars Church Garden. This area was devastated during a major raid, and it now functions as a memorial garden. The 10-minute stop highlights the destruction and remembrance of civilians affected during the Blitz.

The site offers a peaceful reflection point amidst the tour, emphasizing the human cost of war.

Viewing St. Paul’s Cathedral from Outside

The tour passes St. Paul’s Cathedral, Hitler’s number one target during The Blitz. While inside visits are not included, the exterior view and the guide’s commentary reveal the cathedral’s symbolic importance as a resilient centerpiece of London.

Firefighters Memorial and Bethnal Green Disaster

The National Firefighters Memorial is a free stop, honoring the sacrifices of London’s firefighters. The tour also visits the Stairway to Heaven Memorial in Bethnal Green, dedicated to the 173 civilians who perished during the worst civilian disaster of the Blitz.

Both sites take around 10-15 minutes each and provide meaningful insights into the bravery of emergency services and civilian victims.

End at St. Paul’s Station

The tour concludes at St. Paul’s Station, making it easy for visitors to continue exploring or return to their accommodations. The 10-minute walk back offers a chance to review the sights seen, with the whole experience designed to be manageable for those with moderate physical fitness.

Overall Value and Suitability

This private tour excels in providing a detailed look at London’s WWII landmarks in a relaxed, personal setting. The professional guide enhances the experience with engaging commentary, especially on sites like the Churchill War Rooms, Parliament Square, and the Ack Ack gun emplacement.

While some sites such as Dowing Street, inside Churchill War Rooms, and inside Westminster Abbey are not included, the outside views and stories deliver a comprehensive snapshot of wartime London. The 3-hour pace balances sightseeing with reflection, suitable for history buffs who appreciate detailed storytelling and fewer crowds.

Is This Tour Right for You?

The WW2 London Blitz Private Tour is well-suited for those interested in military history, WWII, and London’s resilience during wartime. Its private format ensures a personalized experience, perfect for families or small groups. Keep in mind that it’s designed for moderate physical activity and involves walking to multiple sites.

The tour offers a compelling, well-organized way to uncover London’s wartime past, with a knowledgeable guide making the history come alive. It’s an excellent choice for visitors seeking an in-depth, private exploration of WWII landmarks in central London.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $239.50 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Caffè Nero in Portcullis House and finishes at St. Paul’s Station.

Are admission fees included?
Some stops, like Mudchute Park and Farm and Christchurch Greyfriars Church Garden, include admission, but sites like Churchill War Rooms, 10 Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral are not included.

Is transportation to each attraction provided?
No, the tour involves walking between sites; transportation is not included.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness, but it is manageable within the 3-hour walking distance.

Can I cancel the tour for a full refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is often booked 91 days in advance, indicating strong demand.

Is there a guide included?
Yes, a professional local guide provides commentary throughout the tour.

What makes this tour different from other London WWII tours?
Its private format, focus on less crowded sites, and in-depth commentary make it stand out.