Downing Street

The home of some of the most important members of the British Government, including the Prime Minister himself.

TravelCurious Tip

Don’t expect much more than a view of the front door - security is tight, and only designated visitors get to see inside!

A seat of power

Downing Street is known the world over as home to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom: ‘Number 10’ has been the official ministerial residence for almost 300 years. Less famously, the Chancellor of the Exchequer lives just next door at Number 11; other senior members of the Cabinet, like the Chief Whip, frequently reside there in Number 9 or Number 12.

Downing Street was built in the 1680s and named after its Anglo-Irish creator Sir George Downing, 1st Baronet, who had amassed a substantial fortune as a soldier and spy for Oliver Cromwell and later King Charles II. He purchased the land near St. James’s Park which once held the Hampden Mansion, a townhouse and a cottage, which he tore down in order to build a set of townhouses for esteemed British noblemen – or ‘persons of good quality’.

In later years the houses served not only as official residences but also as the offices of certain branches of government such as the Treasury Office, the War Office, the Privy Council Office and the Colonial Office. Number 10 has always been home to the First Lord of the Treasury, which since 1735 has been a role fulfilled by the Prime Minister (though before 1787 it was actually Number 5).


A ‘vast, awkward house’

The modest front edifice of this Georgian building - unchanged since the 18th century - belies an interior of around one hundred rooms. A portrait of Sir George Downing hangs inside the door of Number 10, though the Baronet probably never actually lived on the street at all, spending his remaining years in Cambridge. The building’s longest-standing resident, William Pitt the Younger, fondly called it ‘my vast, awkward house.’

As the residence of the Prime Minister it serves an important political function, and the beautiful state rooms have received some of the most important figures in world history as guests - though its status as a seat of power has also attracted protestors. In recent years it has been adopted as the official Twitter handle of David Cameron’s office, @Number10gov.

Interestingly, the door to Number 10 cannot be opened from the outside, so there is always someone waiting indoors to open it, as well as at least one policeman posted outside the door at all times. The distinctive white lettering of Number 10 has featured in many films, including Love Actually, where Hugh Grant’s down-to-earth Prime Minister dances his way through its halls and finds love (actually!).

Today, Downing Street is gated and there are armed security guards standing by; yet you will always see tourists peering through the iron bars at this famous London cul-de-sac. A visit provides a thrilling glimpse at the heart of the English Government - and, of course, at one of of the most famous doors in the world.

Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in London
Horse Guards Parade at St James's Park
An old tournament ground that now serves as an area for royal and military ceremonies.
Whitehall Place
Recognised as the centre of Her Majesty's Government and the seat of power for the United Kingdom.
Churchill War Rooms
A fascinating underground museum preserving the bunker from which Churchill's government directed the war effort.
Old War Office Building
The neo-Baroque building served as Churchill's Old War Office during World War II.
The Cenotaph
A national war memorial in London.
Westminster Tube Station
The Westminster Tube Station is a subway station managed by the London Underground in the city of Westminster. The famous movie, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, recorded a scene at the Westminster Station.

Related Tours

London in a Day: Private Walking Tour including the London Eye
This full-day tour is the perfect way to see London's most iconic attractions in a day, making the most of your time in the English capital by the hand of a professional tour guide who will share local stories and the history of the city.

On your full-day walking tour, you will: 

  • Spend a day in London with a Blue Badge tour guide who will share the history behind the most popular landmarks and hidden gems;
  • Get access to the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey and take a ride in the London Eye;
  • Visit the Tower of London and see the impressive Crown Jewels, while learning about the Line of Kings and the Royal Family;
  • Stop for lunch at one of the many options near the Tower of London (Lunch not included);
  • Hop aboard a Thames River bus to see some of the best sites from the water, including St Paul’s Cathedral, the Globe Theatre, and Tower Bridge;
  • Explore one of the world’s most famous Gothic cathedrals, Westminster Abbey, and see the place where royal coronations take place;
  • Enjoy a walking tour of the city of Westminster, where you’ll see St James’s Palace, Buckingham Palace, the Horse Guards, the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben;
  • Conclude your tour at the London Eye, where your guide will give you Fast-track tickets to see the city of London from above.

Meet your guide at the Tower of London and explore one of the oldest buildings in the city where some of the greatest events in English history occurred. You will have the opportunity to admire the unmissable and stunning Crown Jewels which are kept here behind extensive security in the aptly-named Jewel House.

On leaving the Tower, enjoy a lunch break before travelling to Westminster by River Bus for a guided visit to Westminster Abbey, London’s royal church, the site of 39 coronations and the venue for the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. You will learn about the Coronation ceremony and enjoy the beauty of this 800-year-old treasure. 

Your full-day tour will continue with a walking tour past some of London’s most famous buildings including St James’s Palace, Buckingham Palace, Horse Guards, the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben. 

After a day in London filled with history, culture and visits to the most iconic landmarks, it's time for a relaxing ride on the London Eye, one of the world's biggest Ferris Wheels for spectacular views across London that you will enjoy with your group.


Please Note: timing of the itinerary, including lunch and Westminster Abbey, are subject to change.
Horse Guards Parade, Westminster & Tower of London: Full-Day Tour
Experience a full-day private tour of London's spectacular Royal landmarks with a private and knowledgeable Blue Badge guide and discover the most popular sites including the Tower of London, the best of Westminster and the opportunity to see the Changing of the Guard. 

On your private full-day tour, you will:

  • Visit  Parliament Square and see the famous Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey (from the outside only);
  • Walk through St James’s Park, see the giant marble memorial to Queen Victoria in front of Buckingham Palace and follow the famous Changing of the Guard parade;
  • See St James's Palace and Horse Guards Parade;
  • Walk along Whitehall to see number 10 Downing Street and through Trafalgar Square;
  • Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Thames with views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the Globe Theatre;
  • Explore the Tower of London, a former royal castle turned traitor's prison;
  • Go round the White Tower, the armoury and mint; 
  • Step inside the dungeons and torture chambers, walk the battlements and visit the Chapel Royal; 
  • Learn about the Princes in the Tower, Henry VIII and the fate of his wives Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, the young Lady Jane Grey, Sir Walter Raleigh, and many others; 
  • Meet the ravens and the Beefeaters or Yeoman Warders who guard the Tower;
  • Admire the dazzling Crown Jewels;
  • End outside the Jewel House where you are free to explore more at your own leisure or exit the Tower with your guide. 

Please note: that the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, but can be subject to change and weather conditions. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will see the changing of the Horseguards at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall.
You can check the schedule here: https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html

Enjoy Royal London on this fantastic day tour that begins in the heart of Westminster, follows the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and ends with the sight of the dazzling Crown Jewels at the Tower of London. 

Meet your guide at Westminster for a tour outside the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Learn about the political history of Parliament Square and its relationship to The Crown. Westminster Abbey has been the site of 38 coronations since 1066, and numerous royal weddings and funerals, including the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, and Her Majesty The Queen's state funeral. 

From Westminster, wander up Birdcage Walk where you will follow the pomp and pageantry of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Follow the Guardsmen and military band, with their famous red coats and black bearskin hats to Buckingham Palace. Head into Trafalgar Square, via Horseguards Parade, and along Whitehall - the political nerve centre of the UK and the address of 10 Downing Street - home to the British Prime Minister. 

Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Thames to Tower Bridge. You'll get to see London and Waterloo Bridges, the London Eye, the Globe, the skyscrapers, and St Paul’s Cathedral from the boat. 

Your guide will then accompany you to St. Katherine's Docks for lunch (not included), after which you will enjoy an exclusive private tour of the infamous Tower of London, with reserved tickets included. 

Then it's time to enter the Tower of London! Walk past Traitor's Gate and discover the many stories and scandals hidden within the walls of this ancient building.  It was formerly a moated royal palace, that became an armoury, a royal mint, a zoo... and most famously the traitor's prison! You'll meet the Beefeaters and the ravens who guard the Tower and discover the stories behind some of the Tower's most famous prisoners from the young Princes in the Tower to Queen Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey whose graffiti you can still see in her prison cell. 

Explore the White Tower, the oldest part of the fortress, walk the battlements, enter the torture chambers (if you dare!) and visit the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula, where some very famous queens are buried.  

Best of all, you will be able to admire the dazzling Crown Jewels which are kept behind extensive security in the aptly-named Jewel House. 

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strict security measures in place and the moving viewing platform, your guide cannot accompany you but will wait for you at the exit.

End your tour inside the Tower to explore more at your leisure - or return to modern life with your guide! 
City of Spies: Espionage in London & Churchill War Rooms Private Tour
This exciting City of Spies private tour has been created exclusively to take you on a fascinating journey through London's espionage history during the Cold War, the origins of MI5 and MI6, and to learn about Churchill's role in bringing down the Nazi regime. 

On your private city of spies tour of London, you will: 

  • Learn London's rich history of espionage at St Ermin's Hotel, where Winston Churchill's meeting known as 'Setting Europe Ablaze’ occurred in 1940, and walk past the Caxton bar located inside this famous spy hotel used by intelligence service officials to meet up;
  • Discover the stories of double agents known as the Cambridge Five: Kim Philby, Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, John Cairncross, and Sir Anthony Blunt;
  • Hear the plots to overthrow the government at some of the most powerful institutions in Westminster, including Downing Street, Whitehall, and Westminster Palace;
  • Learn about the extraordinary life of Sir Mansfield Cumming, the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) first director, known as MI6; 
  • Explore the Churchill War Rooms with your private guide and get up close to the Cabinet Room;
  • See the Map Room, the beating heart of the war rooms;
  • And discover the Telephone Room that allowed direct communication between the US and the UK government.

Your tour guide will take you on a journey through the streets of London to uncover the main characters and buildings that shaped the history of the world while telling you stories that seem more like Le Carré novels than real life. 

After your walking tour, you will visit the Churchill War Rooms, located below the streets of Westminster. An underground network of bunkers that functioned as British wartime offices, planning, and map rooms.

It was here that much of Allied intelligence and strategy was discussed and planned in WWII, as well as serving as a place of refuge and shelter for the government during the blitz. Your guide will give a detailed and fascinating tour of this place that has been left exactly as it was since 1944. 
Royal London: Private Half-Day Tour with Horse Guards Parade
Explore London’s most popular sites on this Royal London half-day tour, including spectacular parks and royal sites in Westminster.

On your private tour, you will:

  • Experience the Changing of the Guard, one of the most popular attractions in the city;
  • Discover Whitehall and 10 Downing Street, the UK Prime Minister's office;
  • Walk by the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, an iconic symbol of London;
  • Hear fascinating British history and London's incredible past;
  • Walk around the Mall, St. James's Palace, and Horse Guards Parade;
  • Explore St James's Park, the oldest Royal Park created for sport-loving Henry VIII and a once-famous duelling venue;
  • See Buckingham Palace from the outside as you learn more about Royal History;
  • Finish your tour at Trafalgar Square, home to the iconic Nelson's Column, the National Gallery, and the National Portrait Gallery.

Please note: that the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, but can be subject to change and weather conditions. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will see the changing of the Horseguards at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall.
You can check the schedule here: https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html

On your tour, your guide will reveal the secrets of the power and politics of Westminster, while seeing some of the most popular landmarks. Learn all about the Houses of Parliament, the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom, and be inspired by its mighty history. 

Amble through the fabulous gardens and sights of St James's Park and have the opportunity to see the Changing of the Guard in front of magnificent Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837. 

This ceremony, seen by millions every year, is a must-see attraction in London. It takes place every other day between Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and Wellington Barracks, and is the perfect reminder of the tight relationship between the armed forces and HM the Queen.

Walk along the Mall and learn curious facts about British kings and queens, who turned the British Empire into the most dominant power on Earth. 

Your tour finishes with a walk through Trafalgar Square, where your guide will show you the best places to grab a bite to eat in the area or direct you to some of the world's most famous artwork, located only metres away in the National Gallery. 
Family-Friendly Royal London: Private Half-Day Tour & London Eye
Discover the most popular sites in Royal London on this family-friendly half-day tour, where you will see London’s unmissable attractions, parks, and finest Royal sites with an expert tour guide while keeping your family entertained. 

On this family-friendly private tour, you will:

  • Explore London with a tour guide handpicked for leading family-friendly tours;
  • Pass by the Statue Of The Duke Of Wellington and walk under the famous Wellington Arch;
  • Admire the grandiosity of Buckingham Palace from the outside and discover the Victoria Memorial;
  • Visit St. James's Park and see the Pelicans donated to King Charles II by a Russian ambassador during a visit in 1664;
  • Walk past Whitehall and 10 Downing St, UK's Prime Minister's office;
  • Enjoy a walking tour of Westminster, where you’ll see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey;
  • Finish your time enjoying panoramic views of the city from the London Eye, a family favourite!
This tour is ideal for those families who would like a taste of London in half a day and want to see London’s unmissable attractions and finest Royal sites in an exciting four hours. 

Whether your family is interested in history, nature, experiencing iconic British traditions or marvelling at beautiful Royal Palaces and Parks, this tour has something for everyone.

Get a peppering of tales, fun facts and stories about London, British Culture and tradition. Hear of the Secret tunnels which lie beneath Buckingham Palace, and the many attempts to steal the Crown Jewels. And the infamous 14-year-old cat burglar caught stealing the late Queen Victoria’s underwear. See London’s famous palace guards, the household cavalry mounted on their famous black horses, and maybe even members of the royal family, if you are lucky!

On this half-day tour, you will also avoid the rush and busyness of a group tour, and enjoy a more intimate, flexible experience. Your tour ends with an adventurous ride on the London Eye. 

Your personal guide will help you quickly navigate London and ensure you have the smoothest, most enjoyable day possible creating great memories with your family. 
The Best of Westminster: Private Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey
Discover the best of Westminster, and see some of London's unmissable attractions in a half-day tour including spectacular parks and royal sites with a Blue Badge tour guide. 

On your private tour, you will:

  • See Whitehall and 10 Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben;
  • Enjoy a privately guided tour of Westminster Abbey, where 38 coronations have taken place;
  • Learn about fascinating English history, British tradition and London's incredible past—from the plague and the great fire of London to the Blitz;
  • Hear stories as you visit the outside of Buckingham Palace, via the beautiful St James's Park and Trafalgar Square.
Reveal the secrets of power and politics on your exciting tour of Westminster, seeing some of the most recognisable landmarks. Learn all about the Houses of Parliament, the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom, and be inspired by its mighty history. 

Then, gain insight into the centuries-old Westminster Abbey (with entrance tickets included), the setting for every coronation since 1066, many royal weddings and the final resting place of 17 monarchs. 

Amble through the fabulous gardens and sights of St James's Park and admire the magnificent Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837. Walk along the Mall and learn curious facts about British kings and queens, who turned the British Empire into the most dominant power on Earth. 

Your tour finishes with a walk through Trafalgar Square, onto Covent Garden, where your guide will show you the best places to spend the rest of your time dining and shopping. 
Churchill War Rooms: Westminster Underground Bunkers Private Tour
Step into the world of Wartime London in the late 1930s and 1940s, where you will hear the stories of larger-than-life Winston Churchill, explore the underground bunkers that British wartime officers used during that time known as the Churchill War Rooms and learn about the resilience of Londoners during that time. 

On your private Churchill War Rooms tour, you will: 

  • Enjoy the personalised attention of a knowledgeable private guide throughout your tour;
  • See the Winston Churchill memorial and the partially bombed buildings from the blitz;
  • Stop at some of the most iconic buildings in London: Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, The Cenotaph, the Old War Office, MI6 headquarters and the Gurkha Soldier memorial;
  • Visit the Churchill War Rooms and travel back in time to the times of the Second World War while your tour guide gives you a private tour of these underground bunkers;
  • Explore the Cabinet Room, hidden under the streets of Westminster and hear the stories about those who worked and lived here;
  • Discover the Transatlantic Telephone Room, which connected Churchill directly to the US president and find out how they disguised this tiny room;
  • See the BBC Broadcast Room, where all speeches were televised from;
  • Visit the Map Room, used around the clock to collate information for King George VI, Churchill,  and the armed forces;
  • Walk the Churchill War Rooms' top-secret winding corridors and get a glimpse of what life would have been from 1939 to 1945.

Begin exploring the heart of London’s parliamentary district. This was the brain and nerve centre for British and Allied forces in Europe and abroad. See the Winston Churchill memorial, and learn about his adolescence, personal life and fascinating rise to government. 

Your guide will take you to see the partially destroyed buildings from the blitz and visit The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the Prime Minister's residence. Next visit The iconic Cenotaph war memorial, special service headquarters and Ghurka memorial.

After your walking tour, dive into the Churchill War Rooms, an underground network of bunkers that functioned as British wartime offices, planning and map rooms. It was here that much of Allied intelligence and strategy was discussed and planned in WWII, as well as serving as a place of refuge and shelter for the government during the blitz.

As you explore the massive layer of concrete known as “The Slab”, you discover that the Churchill War Rooms actually consists of two separate museums. 

The Cabinet War Rooms, whose centrepiece is the fascinating Map Room, detail the strategic and tactical exploits of the war room as a whole. This is where Churchill held no less than 115 cabinet meetings, hammering out the details of Allied offensives across Europe. 

The Churchill Museum unpicks the life and works of the great man himself, from his early childhood to his state funeral. Particularly interesting is the large collection of passionately devoted letters he wrote to his wife Clementine, exposing the softer side of this famously tough statesman.

Your tour finishes in the War Rooms, and you are free to continue exploring at your own leisure or ask your guide for recommendations for food, including Churchill’s local pub. 
The Heart of London: Classic Westminster Private 2-Hour Tour
Westminster is one of the most historic and well-known areas located in the heart of London. It has been home to many kings and queens, including Henry VIII and Elizabeth I and on this 2-hour private tour, you will have the chance to explore Westminster in all its glory.

On your private tour, you will:

  • Walk past Westminster Abbey, where every British monarch since William the Conqueror has been crowned;
  • See Whitehall and 10 Downing Street, where the prime minister lives and works;
  • Pass by the Houses of Parliament also known as the Palace of Westminster and the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom so that you can see Big Ben up close;
  • See Buckingham Palace, home to the British monarchy since 1837 and hear about British kings and queens who turned the British Empire into one of the most dominant powers in history;
  • Take a stroll via the beautiful St James's Park, the oldest Royal Park at the heart of ceremonial London, and see St James's Palace;
  • Explore Trafalgar Square, where Nelson’s Column can be found in honour of Admiral Nelson, after his victory in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
  • End your tour at Covent Garden, a shopping and dining hub in London's West End.

If you want to discover the heart of London, come with us on this private tour!

This 2-hour trip will take you through some of the most famous and beautiful locations in Westminster, including Whitehall and 10 Downing Street, where all the British government happens. We'll also take you to the Houses of Parliament, the supreme legislative body of Great Britain, Somerset House and Big Ben for the perfect photo opportunity!

You'll hear stories about fascinating English history, British tradition and London's incredible past—from the plague and great fire of London to the Blitz, and the secrets of power and politics on our exciting tour of Westminster while you visit some of the most recognisable landmarks in London. 

You will also take a stroll down St James's Park through its fabulous gardens and sights before heading over to Buckingham Palace.

Your tour will end with a walk through Trafalgar Square to see Nelson's column onto Covent Garden, where your guide will show you the best places to spend your time dining and shopping!
The Best of London: Private Driving Tour in an Iconic London Taxi

Explore the best of London by the hand of a well-informed cabbie and professional driver guide, who knows the city like the back of his hand, including the most popular attractions and many hidden gems on this panoramic sightseeing tour of London.

On your private driving tour, you will:

  • Enjoy hotel pick-up from any central London hotel;
  • Catch the ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony for tours starting at 10 am or earlier;
  • Hop back in for an easy drive to Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster;
  • Stop at several quintessential London must-sees, including Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, Royal Albert Hall, St Paul’s Cathedral, and St James's Palace;
  • Drive alongside the Thames River to the Tower of London, where true stories seem more like fiction than fact!


Please note: that the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, but can be subject to change and weather conditions. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will see the changing of the Horseguards at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall. You can check the schedule here: https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html


Your guide will meet and greet you at your central London hotel (or preferred pickup location) and at the conclusion of your 4-hour tour, you can be dropped off at your hotel or any central location of your choice.

On this half-day tour, your guide will stop at a minimum of 6 popular locations to tell you about the fascinating history of these iconic attractions.

This is less of a whistle-stop tour than most of the London highlights tours and invites you to slow down, while those around you hop on and off of buses without enough time to truly appreciate the layers of history and wild stories that surround so many London icons.

There will be plenty of opportunities throughout your tour to take those treasured photos – and if you want to take time out, your London guide knows all the best places to grab a coffee. 

James Bond Filming Locations in London: Private Driving Tour
Delve into the world of espionage with Bond, James Bond on a private tour of London to uncover many filming locations in the city of London that you have seen in your favourite movies for over 40 years.

On your James Bond filming locations tour, you will:

  • Travel in the comfort of a private and iconic London Taxi;
  • Relive your favourite spy flicks and their lead characters with an accredited London Driver Guide who's a 007 aficionado; 
  • Become a special agent of "His Majesty’s Secret Service" and explore the haunts throughout London where Connery, Lazenby, Moore, Dalton, Brosnan and Craig each brought Bond to life;
  • Explore the places behind the stories in Ian Fleming’s iconic novels and the subsequent films;
  • Learn about the real-life world of the Secret Service as you tour Westminster, Whitehall, Downing St, and the National Gallery.

London is a city unlike no other in respect of its long associations with the world of espionage - the spies, double agents, traitors, heroes and villains from every continent played out their cloak-and-dagger games of cunning, deceit and treachery on the mean streets that we shall traverse. 

Like in real life, the city has played host to some incredible spy moments on the big screen, including in Bond film scenes over the past 55 years. Your 007 expert tour guide is here to take you undercover and whisk you through the film locations from ‘Dr. No’ through to ‘Spectre.’
 
James Bond fans will not only get to see those film scene sites - but also most of London's iconic landmarks, plus a special visit inside one of the world's most famous spaces, the National Gallery.
Build Your Own 9-hour Private London Tour in a Black Cab
At Black Cab Heritage Tours, we have a wide range of private tours and day trips from London, but our priority is to make sure you have a memorable experience, and that every detail of your tour is taken care of.

This “Build Your Own Tour” will allow you to work with one of our staff members to create the perfect customised tour according to your requests.

These tours have been designed to be delivered within the city of London. If you want to do a day trip out of town or to a different area, please reach out directly so we can reconfirm the duration and the itinerary for the day.
We look forward to welcoming you to London soon!

Please note
  • No entrance fees are included
  • Guides are not allowed to guide inside certain venues
  • Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off  is only included from Central London
Discover Westminster in an Iconic London Taxi: Private 2-hour Tour

Explore the hub of British politics, power, and royalty on this two-hour private driving tour of Westminster and Central London in an iconic London Black Cab. With your expert private driver-guide, you will pass by all of Westminster’s historic landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, and Westminster Abbey.

On your private tour, you will:

  • See iconic sights including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the Palace of Westminster;
  • Marvel at the architectural wonders of St James' Palace, Westminster Cathedral, St Margaret's Church, and Westminster School;
  • Visit famous and lesser-known places including Downing Street, Central Methodist Hall, Banqueting House, Horse Guards, and the National Gallery;
  • Hear stories and scandals about Trafalgar Square, Nelson's Column, Marble Arch, Wellington Memorial, Lambeth Palace, the London Eye, and the River Thames;
  • End your tour with a drop-off at any preferred Central London location.

Discover the real history of power, politics, and monarchy in London on this express two-hour private tour of iconic London landmarks with an expert Cabbie who not only knows London like the back of their hand but is also a historian... with many royal and historic secrets to share with you!

Whether you are interested in the British monarchy's royal palaces or the historic UK Parliament based at Westminster for over 1000 years, your expert guide is more than happy to spill all the gossip, alongside the history of any topic which may interest you.

Learn about the ancient coronation rituals that have been taking place at Westminster Abbey since William the Conqueror on Christmas Day 1066 up to the late Queen Elizabeth II in 1952 and King Charles III. Admire the awe-inspiring Gothic architecture of the Abbey that has stood the test of time for over 1000 years.

Your guide is ready to discuss anything you throw their way - including filming locations for Harry Potter, James Bond, and Downton Abbey, among many others. In short, for any curiosity, you may have about London today and British history as a whole, you're in great hands! 
City of Spies: Discover London's Espionage History Private Tour
Immerse yourself in one of the world’s largest centres of international trade, finance, geopolitics, and espionage history. Journey through London's role in the Cold War, the origins of MI5, MI6 and Churchill's role in WWII bringing down the Nazi regime. 

On your private City of Spies tour, you will: 

  • Experience the worlds of fiction and reality, uncovering hidden places, bunkers, and luxury hotels.
  • Hear stories of double agents and plots to overthrow the government at some of the most powerful institutions in Westminster, including Downing Street, Whitehall, and Westminster Palace.
  • Follow in the footsteps of the key double agents in the Cold War, such as Kim Philby, Donald Maclean, and Guy Burgess - and ask if there was an unidentified "Fifth Man".
  • Learn about the extraordinary life of Sir Mansfield Cumming, the first director of the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), known as MI6. 
  • Finish your tour with a drink included at the Caxton Bar where, during WWII,  MI5, SIS and Naval Intelligence Division officers such as 007 author Ian Fleming himself met their agents.

In this unique experience, you will walk by and learn about many of the protagonist buildings and sites where these world-changing events have taken place. 

Your guide will mesmerise you with stories that seem more like Le Carré novels than real life. Of course, these stories are not confined to the Second World War and Cold War History, as foreign operatives in London continue to make splashes across global headlines.

Venture out onto the streets of Westminster and discover the area's colourful history of espionage, dirty politics and death. The toppling of regimes, battle against ideology and revolution have all been orchestrated and exercised along these streets. Revisit the setting of infamous covert operations, traitorous meetings involving double agents and murder plots.

Along your walking tour, you will retrace the steps of Britain's most famous spies, enjoy the remarkable tales that later inspired Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels, and hear of the extraordinary success of the Cambridge Spy ring. 

Come and enjoy this unique experience, but please be discreet, the information given on this tour is classified...
Build Your Own 7-hour Private London Tour in a Black Cab
At Black Cab Heritage Tours, we have a wide range of private tours and day trips from London, but our priority is to make sure you have a memorable experience, and that every detail of your tour is taken care of.

This “Build Your Own Tour” will allow you to work with one of our staff members to create the perfect customised tour according to your requests.

These tours have been designed to be delivered within the city of London. If you want to do a day trip out of town or to a different area, please reach out directly so we can reconfirm the duration and the itinerary for the day.
We look forward to welcoming you to London soon!

Please note
  • No entrance fees are included
  • Guides are not allowed to guide inside certain venues
  • Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off  is only included from Central London
Harry Potter Filming Locations in London: Private Walking Tour
Discover the many filming locations of the Harry Potter movies in muggle London on a private walking tour of the most famous landmarks of the city. Unlike other cities, London was used in many of the scenes, so you will have the opportunity to visit the actual sites that made it on the big screen! 

On your Harry Potter private walking tour you will:

  • Start your tour at  Westminster tube station used In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix;
  • Visit the entrance to the Ministry of Magic and the muggle Prime Minister's home;
  • Stop off at several well-known landmarks of London used in books and films, like St Paul's, Trafalgar Square, and Goodwin's Court;
  • Discover Picadilly Circus, where Ron, Hermione, and Harry almost get hit by a red London bus in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1;
  • Snap a photo of Harry Potter's bronze statue in Leicester Square;
  • Cross the Millennium Bridge - the site of the muggle killings by Death Eaters in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince;
  • End your tour at Leadenhall Market, Leaky Cauldron's entrance in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone; or at the Borough Market, the site where Harry disembarks after his ride on the Knight Bus.
Explore the literary and cinematic landmarks inspired by Harry Potter’s world on this magical tour of London with a private guide, who is also a Potter fanatic. 

Prepare for your own sorting ceremony and be sure you know which magical creature you want to bring with you to Hogwarts. On this half-day tour, you'll traverse many of London's hidden passageways and filming locations for the iconic 8 films. 

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Ernie Prang and Stan Shunpike on the Knight Bus!

See Diagon Alley, the Leaky cauldron, and other spellbinding places - both obvious and hidden from muggle eyes. Enjoy fascinating trivia on the series and gain a lesser-known insight into the characters, author and actors. 

Hear tales that even the most dedicated fans and Potterheads will not have heard before! With wands, quizzes and prizes, you will enjoy a unique wizarding experience. 


Note: If you would like to visit Platform 9¾ after the tour to hop aboard the Hogwarts Express, your guide will be happy to direct you to King's Cross Station, a short tube ride away.
The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
Experience all that London has to offer in a day on this whistle-stop driving and walking tour of the most famous landmarks and sites that London is world-famous for, and see more of London in a day than most visitors will see in a week! 

On your private full-day tour, you will: 

  • Travel in style in a private London Black Cab with a licensed cab driver;
  • See London's most famous attractions, including 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 2 Tudor Palaces;
  • Discover St.James's Palace, the historic residence of the British monarchy;
  • Catch the world-famous ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony at Buckingham Palace if your tour's pick-up time is at 10 am or earlier (subject to weather conditions and schedule changes);
  • Take a stroll down Parliament Square, located in front of the Palace of Westminster and discover its surrounding landmarks;
  • See Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower), Westminster Abbey and statues of iconic figures such as Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi, among others;
  • Pass by 10 Downing Street, home to the British Prime Minister;
  • Feel the bustling energy of Piccadilly Circus, an iconic entertainment centre featured in many movies and tv shows; 
  • Marble Arch, 
  • See St Paul’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Sir Christopher Wren;
  • Admire Kensington Palace, a historic royal residence located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea with intricate architecture and lush gardens;
  • Snap a photo at the London Eye and the Shakespeare's Globe, 
  • Explore Borough Market, a culinary hub for locals and visitors alike where you can find fresh produce, artisanal foods, and international delicacies;
  • Get breathtaking views of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, a defining symbol of the city of London for its distinctive design, its unique location and for being showcased in multiple films building an even larger cultural significance,
  • Capture a memorable photo at Abbey Road and more!

Please note: that the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, but can be subject to change and weather conditions. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will see the changing of the Horseguards at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall. You can check the schedule here: https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html

London is a modern capital with an ancient past as for centuries it has occupied a central place in the rich fabric of British life and history. Your expert driver-guide will introduce you to one of the world's most multi-faceted and fascinating cities, home to the King, and aeons of Royal history, not to mention Shakespeare's Globe and a thrumming West End theatre scene.  

On your private, full-day tour in a Classic Black Cab, you'll stop along the way for many photo opportunities and hear the stories of many of the most famous buildings of Britain's Capital city as well as take the opportunity to stroll and explore some of the Victorian alleys and markets such as Covent Garden in the West End and Leadenhall market in the East End (featured in Harry Potter movies). 

This comprehensive tour will include stops all over the city, including Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, Kensington Palace, Tower of London, Tower Bridge,  and many more. 

At each place, you'll be able to capture your memories and share your amazing day on Instagram, before being dropped off at a location of your choice. 


IMPORTANT: This tour does not enter any attractions and no tickets are included
Build Your Own 4-hour Private Tour in a London Taxi
At Black Cab Heritage Tours, we have a wide range of private tours and day trips from London, but our priority is to make sure you have a memorable experience, and that every detail of your tour is taken care of.

This “Build Your Own Tour” will allow you to work with one of our staff members to create the perfect customised tour according to your requests.

This tour can only take place within the city of London due to the tour duration.

We look forward to welcoming you to London soon!

Please note
  • No entrance fees are included
  • Guides are not allowed to guide inside certain venues
  • Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off  is only included from Central London
The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a London Taxi
The Premier Classic London Experience is the perfect way to discover the marvellous city of London for first-time visitors and for those that have a short time in the city. 

On your private driving tour, you will: 

  • Enjoy hotel pick-up from any central London hotel;
  • Discover the best 6 and most popular attractions that are the essence of the city;
  • Get a taste of the real London with a “cabbie”, a professional driver-guide who knows the city inside out,
  • Visit notable sites and landmarks while your local guide shares interesting stories and history at each locale;
  • Stop at several quintessential London must-sees, including Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, Royal Albert Hall, St Paul’s Cathedral, and St James's Palace;
  • Catch the ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony for tours starting at 10 am or earlier (subject to weather and scheduled);
  • Hop back in for an easy drive to Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster;
  • Drive alongside the Thames River to the Tower of London, where true stories seem more like fiction than fact!
  • Enjoy drop-off in any central London location of your hotel.

Please note: that the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, but can be subject to change and weather conditions. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will see the changing of the Horseguards at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall. You can check the schedule here: https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html

During the Premier Classic London Tour, your knowledgeable guide will warmly greet you at your central London hotel or chosen location. 

Throughout the 4-hour tour, you will have the opportunity to discover the history behind at least 6 popular London landmarks, all while comfortably riding in an iconic London Taxi.

This tour has been designed for those who want to take their time to appreciate the rich and fascinating stories that surround these iconic attractions, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, and our fully customisable to suit your needs and interests.

Your guide will ensure that you have plenty of chances to snap memorable photos and can even recommend the best spots for dining, shopping, or any other of your interests for the rest of your trip.

It's important to note that this tour doesn't include entry to any attractions or requires tickets. 

At the end of the tour, you'll have the option to be dropped off at your hotel or any other central location of your choice.
The Extended Ultimate London: Private 8-hour Tour in a London Taxi
If you are looking to visit all of London’s iconic landmarks in a full day, then The Extended Ultimate London Tour is the perfect option for you!

On your private 8-hour tour, you will: 

  • Travel in style in a private and iconic London Taxi;
  • Embark on a memorable journey through the heart of the city of London and immerse yourself in Westminster's grandeur and charm;
  • See more of London in a day than most visitors will see in a week!;
  • Catch the popular ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony at Buckingham Palace if your reservation pick-up time is 10 am or earlier (Subject to weather conditions and schedule);
  • Enjoy a well-deserved lunch break at a traditional British Pub (lunch not included in the price);
  • See London's most famous attractions, including  Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, 10 Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, Marble Arch, Kensington Palace, the London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe; 
  • Stand in awe of Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece: St Paul’s Cathedral at the end of the famous Millennium Bridge;
  • Marvel at the engineering  work of the Tower Bridge that spans the River Thames and captures breathtaking views of the historic Tower of London;
  • Admire Trafalgar Square, home to the magnificent National Gallery and Nelson's Column;
  • Explore Mayfair, the upscale district renowned for its elegance and exclusivity;
  • Visit Leadenhall Market and Borough Market, 
  • Discover musical and film locations of interest and hidden gems;
  • Snap memorable photos at the most famous sights such as Abbey Road. 

Please note: that the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, but can be subject to change and weather conditions. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will see the changing of the Horseguards at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall.
You can check the schedule here: https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html

With a rich history spanning centuries, this tour offers you the opportunity to explore London's most iconic landmarks, from the grandeur of the world-known Westminster Abbey and St Paul's Cathedral to the ancient Tower of London and the iconic Tower Bridge.

In addition to the well-known attractions, your driver-guide will show you some of the hidden gems of the city, including charming Victorian alleys and bustling markets such as Covent Garden in the West End and Leadenhall Market in the East End, famously featured in the Harry Potter movies.

Throughout the tour, there will be many photo opportunities and plenty of time to soak up the history and culture of the city. 

After a full day of exploration, you'll be dropped off at a location of your choice in Central London. 

Don't miss this chance to experience London's wonders, finest landmarks and hidden treasures and create memories that will last a lifetime!

IMPORTANT: This tour does not enter any attractions and no tickets are included
Downton Abbey Filming Locations in London: Private Half-Day Tour
Explore the city of London like a lord or a lady and follow the footsteps of your favourite characters on this Downton Abbey Filming Locations half-day tour.

Even though Yorkshire and Highclere Castle are the main Downton Abbey filming sites for the earlier episodes, central London started to hog the limelight as the show clocked its later innings, and on this tour, you will flashback to the popular scenes set in the city’s iconic landmarks.

Play guessing games to jog your memory as you see: 

  • Buckingham Palace, while not a regular setting, references are made throughout the series due to its importance as the residence of the British monarch;
  • Lancaster House, a neo-classical mansion used for filming historical dramas due to its opulent interiors;
  • Bridgewater House, a privately owned home symbol the exclusivity and wealth of its owner, reflecting the lifestyle of the elite during that era;
  • Belgrave Square, an affluent area in London;
  • Criterion Restaurant, the historic restaurant in Piccadilly Circus;
  • The Ritz London Hotel, built in 1906, 
  • Hyde Park and the Albert Memorial, one of London's largest parks served as a backdrop for strolls and social events;
  • Astor House, 
  • St. Pancras Station, is used in many scenes boarding trains or meeting others in London;
  • and these are just for starters. How many could you spot?

Be bowled over by a few secret filming locations, including Lord Grantham’s London stately home shared by your Professional Private Driver Guide who happens to be a Downton Abbey fanatic as well.

Brace for non-stop peppy conversation, not crisp commentary.
"Darkest Hour" Filming Locations in London: Private Half-Day Tour
"Darkest Hour" is a 2017 British war drama film with Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill in the early days of World War II when he became the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom leading the country through "its darkest hour". The movie received 6 nominations for Academy Awards and an Oscar for Best Leading Actor, and on this tour, your driver-guide will take you to movie spots that will repeat the experience offscreen. 

On this half-day tour,  you will:

  • Travel back to 1940 in one of our traditional London Black Cab time machines, which doubled up as fire engines in WWII, when the wartime leader was under pressure to make peace with Hitler as his armies advanced across Europe;
  • Storm through the violence of ‘The Blitz’ with your private guide;
  • Feel the jitters as you visualise Nazi Germany threatening Western Europe and Great Britain’s very existence; 
  • See the Houses of Parliament, an iconic building where Churchill gave his famous speeches;
  • Discover Buckingham Palace, the residence of the British monarch is also featured in the film;
  • Pass by St. Paul's Cathedral, which plays a significant role in the film, as it was where Churchill attended a service to rally the British people during the war;
  • End your tour at the Cabinet War Rooms, the Imperial War Museum or Warship HMS Belfast. (Tickets not included)

Step into an iconic London black cab and immerse yourself in the history of the capital with a half-day tour of "Darkest Hour" filming locations. With an expert driver-guide at the wheel, you will visit some of the most iconic sites of the movie, from the Houses of Parliament to the Cabinet War Rooms. 

Pass by the places where Churchill stood and spoke to the people of Britain during the country's darkest hour and get a feel for the resilience and determination that helped shape the course of history. 

With a knowledgeable guide to provide historical context and entertaining anecdotes, this tour is a must-do for history buffs and movie lovers alike. 

Sit back and relax as you travel back in time in one of London's most iconic vehicles, taking in the sights and sounds of the city that Churchill called home during this pivotal moment in history.
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