Greenwich

Explore London’s fascinating and often dramatic maritime history on this private tour of the Royal Docks on the Isle of Dogs, the financial centre at Canary Wharf, the amazing urban farm at Mudchute, and finally a walk along a hidden footpath under the Thames to the Royal Borough of Greenwich, to see the famous Cutty Sark, the magnificent Royal Naval College, and fabulous views along the Thames.

On your private tour you will: 

• Enjoy a private walking tour through London’s Docklands, Canary Wharf, and Mudchute Farm on the Isle of Dogs;
• Learn about the long and complex history and trade on the docks from the Romans, to the Normans, the Elizabethan age, and the massive growth in the Victorian era;
• Hear how the Thames was often jam-packed with ships and their sails of all sizes; 
• Learn that the docks were designed to facilitate ease of delivery, and prevent too much pilfering!; 
• Hear about the bombing of the docks during the Second World War;
• Take in gorgeous views at Crossrail Place Roof Garden, used as a performance space; 
• Enjoy a brief visit inside the Museum of London Docklands;
• Walk around Canary Wharf, now London’s impressive glass and concrete financial centre;
• Explore Mudchute, one of the largest urban farms in the whole of Europe, used during WW2;
• Walk along the hidden Greenwich Foot Tunnel beneath the River Thames;
• Arrive at the charming Royal Borough of Greenwich famous for its links with London's maritime trade and the Royal Navy;
• Admire the famous 19th-century tea clipper, the Cutty Sark; 
• Enjoy a Walking tour of Greenwich, with its beautiful architecture of the Royal Naval College, designed by Christopher Wren; 
• End your tour at a traditional pub on the river, with spectacular views of the Isle of Dogs, the Tower of London and the Shard.

Learn all about London's exciting maritime history - its global shipping trade, its famous naval captains and sea-dog adventurers and privateers, from Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh to Horatio Nelson. Learn all about the chequered history of the East India Company - founded in 1600 and whose piers were the first to be built.

As you walk around the docklands and royal Greenwich, imagine the Thames filled with vast ships and sails, and the slow traffic of barges, boats, galleons, warships, and faster moving schooners and tea clippers - one of which you'll see: The Cutty Sark in Greenwich.

The London Docklands cover 9 square miles of riverfront along the Thames, including the Isle of Dogs and the historic naval and royal borough of Greenwich, which you’ll explore on this tour. They have been in use for centuries as the hub of Britain’s global trade until most of them were destroyed during WW2.

The West India Docks were three docks, built to import and export goods, and occasionally passengers, from and to the British West Indies. From massive warehouses, today the area of Canary Wharf has been redeveloped into the financial centre of London, famous for its glass and concrete buildings. It is dominated by the 45-story skyscraper, One Canada Square.

Just south of here, you will visit Mudchute Park and Farm, the largest urban farm in Europe. It is a fascinating Nature Reserve where you’ll learn all about biodiversity and also the ‘dig for Britain’ campaign of WW2.

Afterwards, head under the Thames on the footpath connecting the Isle of Dogs to Greenwich: a quaint and architecturally beautiful borough of London with deep connections to its maritime past. Greenwich is home to the magnificent Royal Naval College, which has been used for many filming locations, including Les Miserables, Poldark, and Bridgerton.

End at a quaint pub on the river and enjoy fabulous views across the water of Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. 

Discover the timeless charm of Greenwich, a gem from history that carries contemporary charm. This full-day tour invites you to discover the stories of maritime adventures, royal intrigues and artistic excellence while enjoying your surroundings and the comfort of an iconic London Taxi!

On your private full-day tour, you will:

• Begin your adventure with fascinating tales and sights as you travel to Greenwich;
• Pass by Rotherhithe where the Mayflower first set sail on its famous pilgrim's mission; 
• Your first stop is the legendary Cutty Sark, with tickets included for an escorted visit inside this marvel of engineering, where you can walk beneath the ship and hear all about its past;
• Enjoy a leisurely walk along Greenwich’s scenic riverside, taking in the sights and sounds of this historic area;
• Experience the grandeur of Greenwich as you pass by the historic Greenwich Palace, also known as the Palace of Placentia and home to the artistic masterpiece of the Painted Hall, 
• Immerse yourself in the vibrancy of Greenwich Market and wander through the eclectic mix of stalls, filled with unique crafts, delicious food, and curiosities; 
• Continue your journey with a drive to Greenwich Park for spectacular views of London’s skyline and get a glimpse of the National Maritime Museum;
• Visit the Royal Observatory and witness the iconic time ball drop, a tradition that has marked Greenwich Mean Time for centuries;
• Step inside the elegant Queen’s House to admire the stunning architecture and art collection that make this former royal residence a true masterpiece. 

Our full-day driving tour starts with a comfort pickup in an iconic London Taxi for a journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Greenwich. En route, swing by the Mayflower Pub, a hidden gem, surrounded by cobbled streets, and spot the original 1620 mooring point of the vessel which transported the Pilgrim Fathers to the New World. 

Step aboard the legendary Cutty Sark, the world’s sole surviving tea clipper, and embark on a 45-minute escorted visit. Immerse yourself in history as you marvel at the ship’s unique design, and hear the stories of her voyages.

Enjoy a short walk along the charming riverside as you make your way to the historic Royal Greenwich Park, where 17th-century landscapes frame spectacular views across the River Thames to London’s modern skyline, alongside the statue of General James Woolf.

Your accredited cabbie-guide will tell you the spine-chilling stories of Greenwich, including two bombings in the park - one even featured in an Alfred Hitchcock thriller. 

Stroll through historic Greenwich Market, first opened in 1737, a chance to pick up some gift shopping or even stock up on some sweet treats. Your Guide will tell the stories of St. Alfege Church, where an Archbishop of Canterbury was martyred at the altar. 

After a delectable lunch (cost of lunch not included), visit the Royal Observatory, home to the world-famous Meridian Line where you can have a souvenir picture with a foot in the west and one foot in the east. This must-see attraction also houses the Great Equatorial Telescope, the world’s earliest public time signal the Time Ball, and be mesmerised by the panoramic views of London through the Camera Obscura.

At Queen's House, Britain’s first-ever classical building and masterpiece of 17th-century architecture, take a step back in time to the birthplace of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. Enjoy views fit for royalty across the lawns to the riverbank, and fans of the Netflix blockbuster Bridgerton will recognise the elegant colonnades as a filming location.

End your memorable day with a comfortable trip to your hotel in London, reflecting on the unique experiences.

This full-day tour of Greenwich promises a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, providing an immersive and engaging experience for all. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of art, or simply seeking an escape, this tour has something special for everyone.  

Please note: Guides are not allowed to guide inside venues but they will escort you during the visit.