Ready to experience London like a local, not a tourist? If so then this guide to the best London at night tours is DEFFO for you.
Because these London tours by night are led by expert guides who know exactly how you should and should not spend your nights in the English capital.
So, stop worrying about hitting up massively overrated tourist traps and start enjoying London tours at night that are guided by real locals.
Trust me, I should know. I lived in London for over 6 months and know exactly which London at night tours at hot and which ones are not.
So, use this next-level awesome guide to plan the trip of a lifetime as you enjoy all the best nightlife that London has to offer.
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🥂 Busy? Then book this Jack the Ripper Guided Walking Tour now! It’s my personal fave and a great way to learn about London’s dark history. 🥂
Best London at Night Tours for Sights and Storytelling
1. London by Night Sightseeing Open-Top Bus Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (2,706 Reviews) Price: $35 per night Duration: 90 minutes📍Meeting Point: Green Park Station, Piccadilly, W1J 9DZ Tour Operator: See London By Night Details: Read more on Get Your Guide now!
So, a quintessential London activity gets a nocturnal makeover with this London by Night Sightseeing Open-Top Bus Tour.
Because cruising around iconic London landmarks like Big Ben and Trafalgar Square via double-decker bus is a London must-do.
However, this tour adds a twist to this immortal activity by departing at twilight. In fact, departures leave as late as 10:15 pm in the summer months.
“Highly recommended for the first stay in London…Lots of information…sometimes a little too quickly one after the other, but the guide tried very hard to make the trip entertaining…it is advisable to do the trip at the beginning of your vacation as there are many sights to see presented and can look at them later in peace.”
Karin (read more reviews now)
And when the sun doesn’t set until almost 10:00 pm, that’s kind of imperative.
Essentially, this is one of the best London at night tours for first-time visitors to London eager to tick all the icons off their list.
After all, the incredible route this bus uses will take you past the Royal Albert Hall, Harrods, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and Piccadilly Circus.
Plus, so much more.
Then, throughout the experience, a tour guide will entertain you/inform you with a lively commentary about all the sights.
However, London isn’t known for its tropical climate. So, add layers to your London packing list if you want to sit on the open part of the upper deck.
| Pros | Cons |
| Seeing London illuminated at night from a double-decker bus is an unforgettable experience | During May, June, and July, it may still be light and not entirely dark on the earlier tours |
| Multiple departure times | No option to get off during the tour |
| Live tour guide narration | Can get chilly during winter or cold snaps |
| Buses are wheelchair-accessible | |
| Awesome for kids, first-timers, and those with mobility concerns | |
| Discounts apply to those aged 15 and below |
2. Jack the Ripper Guided Walking Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (2,039 Reviews) Price: $18 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Adler St, E1 1FD Operator: See Your City Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Step back in time to the murderous streets of Victorian London with this Jack the Ripper Guided Walking Tour.
See, the Ripper is one of the most notorious criminals to have terrorized the slums of East London.
And in 1888, he was responsible for the deaths of at least five women in the impoverished Whitechapel neighborhood. But, his identity was never revealed and his crimes went unpunished.
“Hannah the tour guide was fantastic , she really bought the tour to life being able to see the photos of all the places and people involved was brilliant. we would definitely recommend the tour I learnt lots but the information wasn’t just dates times etc , Hannah explained it all in detail asked us questions and feedback. only tiny miniscule gripe is would of preferred to be taken back to meeting point as would of been able to get back to our hotel easier but I’m being picky. book it request Hannah you will love it.”
Andrew (read more reviews now)
Therefore, this grisly walking tour spills the details on exactly what is known about the serial killer and his victims.
Plus, while many myths circulate, your knowledgeable tour guide will stick to the facts.
Furthermore, this epic tour offers a peek into the lives of Victorian Londoners living in poverty during the late 19th century.
In fact, this is one of the most popular London at night tours on this list. And then throughout, you can play detective and point your finger at one of the suspects.
But, because this tour demands a moderate amount of walking, do wear comfy footwear and avoid lugging a big bag.
| Pros | Cons |
| Separate fact from fiction and learn about one of London’s infamous unsolved mysteries | Tours cannot be rescheduled on account of wet or windy weather |
| Immersive and engaging | Come prepared for varying conditions of pavements |
| Led by an expert Ripperologist | Not recommended for kids under 12 |
| See locations such as Brick Lane, Spitalfields Market, and the Ten Bells Pub |
3. London by Night Private Taxi Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (53 Reviews) Price: $358 per group (up to 6 people) Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: TBC Operator: Visit London Taxi Tours Details: Read more on Viator Now!
Double-decker buses aren’t the only icon cruising down some of London’s most famous streets. Because black cabs are here too.
Plus, all drivers behind the wheel of the London by Night Private Taxi Tour have passed the Knowledge of London exam.
Essentially, anyone who receives this certification knows by heart the name and location of every single street in London.
“Our guide Alan was terrific! We highly recommend a night time taxi tour. Seeing London this way was amazing!”
Tony (read more reviews now)
Plus, they know the shortest or quickest route to any destination.
In fact, it supposedly takes around 4 years to ace this exam, and it is easily one of the toughest tests in existence.
Therefore, you’re in good hands while enjoying one of the most luxurious London at night tours.
Now, each cab can accommodate up to six passengers. So, you can easily split the cost with five of your closest friends.
And as a private tour, you get a full say in the route. However, your driver can provide recommendations and will impart his wisdom before sharing nifty hacks.
However, in general, the itinerary includes Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. And, of course, you’ll have a chance to hop out of the taxi for group photos.
| Pros | Cons |
| Tours are chauffeured by the best cabbies in London | While black cabs may use bus lanes, there is always the risk of traffic interfering with the experience |
| Drivers will accommodate custom itineraries and sightseeing stops | |
| Choose your own pickup and drop-off locations | |
| Vehicles are wheelchair accessible | |
| Infant seats available |
4. London Evening Bike Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (23 Reviews) Price: $60 per group (up to 6 people) Duration: 4 hours 📍Meeting Point: 135 Mepham St, SE1 8SQ Operator: Fat Tire Tours – London Details: Read more on Viator Now!
While London is known for its buses, cabs, and phone boxes, that’s not to say that cycling isn’t a thing in the capital of England.
And, the London Evening Bike Tour is one of the coolest London at night tours for cyclists.
See, the trip departs near Waterloo station shortly before sunset. Then, once there you’ll get a quick safety briefing, buckle up your helmet, and hop aboard your rental bike.
Your friendly guide will then whisk you down the South Bank, past the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament, where you can check out Big Ben’s recent facelift.
“This was my favorite activity in London! The bikes were easy to manage, even across the bridges. Daniel was a great guide, I would recommend this to everyone.”
Shannon (read more reviews now)
But, no rest for the wicked because this tour then journeys eastwards towards the Monument to the Great Fire of London via the North Bank.
Plus, whenever you pause to catch your breath, your guide will amuse you with anecdotes about the city.
Potter fan? Well, then you’ll love that this tour includes a stop at Leadenhall Market, a filming location from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and one of the best Harry Potter things to do in London.
Just be aware that this tour is restricted to only those over the age of 12.
| Pros | Cons |
| The itinerary covers both sides of the river | Guides take good care of participants but the tour isn’t recommended to anyone who has never cycled or who is a nervous cyclist in urban areas |
| Groups are capped at 12 participants | |
| Helmet and reflective vest provided | |
| Option to stop for a drink during the tour (cost of beverage not included in the booking) |
5. Comedy Horror Ghost Tour on a Bus
⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5.0 (1,317 Reviews) Price: $34 per person Duration: 1 hour 📍Meeting Point: The Grand Hotel, 8 Northumberland Ave Operator: The Ghost Bus Tours Ltd Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Only in London will you find the words comedy, horror, ghost, and bus in one sentence.
Because once you clamber aboard the Ghost Bus, you’ll tour the West End while hearing about all those gruesome tidbits of information that are never mentioned in regular tours.
Furthermore, your host – the creepy conductor – is a bona fide comedy actor. So, they’ll manage to terrify you while leaving you laughing hysterically.
“We had a fantastic experience on the Necrobus with Allister Cringley. My husband is not easily amused when i drag him on adventures with me but this tour had him amused from beginning to end. Cringley did a wonderful job and put on a great show! We learned a lot of interesting facts about the city and from a crime junkie my self I enjoyed them all. I will be recommending to anyone I know coming to the area.”
Jessica (read more reviews now)
But, this is no standard ghost tour. Because the commentary is loaded with concrete facts about the city that you can share with all your pals back home.
Additionally, the route covers a mixture of famous spots and secret monuments you’ve likely never noticed. So, you’ll be able to experience some of the best hidden gems in London too.
So, in a nutshell, this theatrical escapade is one of the quirkiest London at night tours.
Also, generally speaking, the tour is suitable for kids and younger teens.
However, bear in mind that some of the stories are dark and the host may crack one or two adult jokes.
| Pros | Cons |
| Hosted by a professional actor | Not suitable for wheelchair users |
| Entertaining and educational | Food and drinks are not allowed on the bus |
| Fun even in the rain | Can’t get off during the tour for photos. |
| General feedback suggests the tour is appropriate for family groups |
Best London at Night Tours on the River
6. River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapés
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (1,124 Reviews) Price: $42 per person Duration: 2 hours📍Meeting Point: Tower Millennium PierLower Thames St, EC3N 4DT Operator: City Cruises Plc Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Experience the English capital from the water during this River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapés.
Because as one of the best London at night tours for couples, you’ll float past London’s glorious landmarks beneath the moonlight.
Plus, upon leaving Tower Millenium Pier, you’ll pass by the Globe Theater, Tate Modern, and the Tower of London en route to the towering skyscrapers of Canary Wharf.
Plus, your ticket includes one glass of bubbles. Therefore, you’re sure to sail in style.
“The evening cruise was a fantastic experience, we were welcomed aboard by a very friendly crew and given our champagne and canapés which were delicious, we had plenty of space to social distance The cruise itself was brilliant and we got a difficult perspective on London from the river and the entertainment on board was excellent.”
Yvonne (read more reviews now)
Now, subject to what the weather decides to do, you have the choice of hunkering down in the saloon or lounging on the open-air panoramic deck.
In reality, you’ll want to experience a bit of both. So, remember to add a warm coat to your London packing list if you book this tour in winter.
And, the cherry on top is that live performers will serenade you with covers of pop songs while you glide along the Thames.
| Pros | Cons |
| 1 glass of sparkling wine (or soft drink) with tasty snacks presented on arrival | Children under the age of 13 are not permitted |
| Cash bar available for additional drinks | Not possible to reschedule in case of inclement weather or poor visibility |
| Vegetarian canapés available | Catering not available to specific diets such as celiac, vegan, or allergies |
7. Thames Sunset Speedboat Experience with Drink
⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (6 Reviews) Price: $60 per person Duration: 50 minutes📍Meeting Point: Boarding Gate One, London Eye Millennium Pier – London Bridge Pier, SE1 7PB Operator: Thames Rockets Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
So, if the bubbly and canapés cruise didn’t quite float your boat, try this one on for size.
Because this Thames Sunset Speedboat Experience with Drink swaps out a trusty riverboat for something swifter.
Therefore, after rendezvousing with your guide just after sunset, you’ll settle into a sleek RIB vessel and jet off east.
Surfing the waves, you’ll hit top speeds of 35 mph while taking in the skyline under a cloak of darkness.
Yeah, this is without a doubt one of the top London at night tours for adrenaline junkies.
“It was amazing. Max was a fantastic tour guide, very informative and funny. Brad was an awesome speed boat driver. Lovely to see London at sunset from the Thames.”
David (read more reviews now)
Plus, your live guide will have you chuckling the entire time with a guided commentary that is laced with witty banter.
And if you need some liquid courage, this tour includes one seasonally inspired tipple.
| Pros | Cons |
| An exciting way to see the sights of London | Only available to individuals 18+ |
| An expert driver will twist the boat with nail-biting precision | Waterproof clothing not provided |
| Lifejackets are provided to all guests | Not suitable for anyone who is pregnant, has back problems, or is a wheelchair user |
| 1 alcoholic (or equivalent) drink included |
Best London at Night Tours for Food and Pubs
8. Twilight Soho Food Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (130 Reviews) Price: $155 per person Duration: 3.5 hours📍Meeting Point: 6 Moor Street Operator: London Food Tours by Eating Europe Details: Read more on Viator Now!
Enjoy a taste of London’s nightlife in electric Soho, one of the most happening areas after hours in the city.
Now, this Twilight Soho Food Tour is led by a fleet of food-obsessed locals.
So, you’ll sidestep all the tourist traps and sink your teeth into lesser-known joints for a taste of London’s international food scene.
“An awesome trip in Soho. Josh was our host an incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. Our favorite part was the music/ entertainment places he took us around to- Mozart, David Bowie, Epidemiologists. Expected just food and got a whole lot more.”
Jacob (read more reviews now)
Therefore, your samples will include the likes of Mexican street tacos, Spanish tapas, and Chinese dumplings.
Rounding off with one of the best desserts in London at a top-secret location.
Anyone for tea? Because as one of the tastiest London at night tours for foodies, tea comes served as a yummy cocktail.
You’ll also get the inside scoop on Soho’s dark history, and learn how it came to be called “Soho” in the first place.
| Pros | Cons |
| 9 food and drink samples at 6 different tasting locations | Not accessible to wheelchair users or those with heart conditions |
| Get the lowdown on the best places to eat and drink in Soho | Alcohol won’t be served to those who fail to present valid photo ID if requested |
| Option to purchase additional food and drinks | |
| Intimate group size that does not exceed 10 people | |
| Possible to sign up as a solo travel |
9. 3-Hour Secret Indian Food Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (28 Reviews) Price: $102 per person Duration: 3 hours📍Meeting Point: 77-82 Whitechapel High St, E1 7QX Operator: Essor Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Did you know that London apparently has more Indian restaurants than Delhi and Bombay combined?
Yup, according to word on the street, there are upwards of 3,500 in the capital alone. Never mind the rest of the UK.
Therefore, the only problem is, how to choose which ones to visit if you only have one day in London.
All you need to do is book the 3-Hour Secret Indian Food Tour.
Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll swing by seven stops during this London at night culinary tour.
And throughout the evening, you’ll sample a variety of curries, savory bites, tandoori dishes, naan, paan, and dessert.
“Our tour guide Tamiza gave us a wonderful evening. We ate incredibly tasty dishes at three restaurants and a candy store. It was more than adequate. Tamiza explained a lot about Indian history and the dishes. We also visited a supermarket together, where Tamiza explained a lot to us. We would repeat this tour at any time and can recommend it 100%.”
Kerstin (read more reviews now)
Plus, plates are served with your pick of Indian beer, a glass of wine, or a refreshing soft drink.
Another perk is that you’ll pop into an Indian supermarket. Here, you can stock up on Indian spices and snacks, with expert advice from your guide. of course.
Plus, after digging in your guide will dish the details on Indian cuisine and the presence of South Asian fare across the UK.
| Pros | Cons |
| Mountains of delicious food that showcases the diversity of Indian cooking | Expensive (but, you get your money’s worth in food) |
| See how traditional paan is made | |
| Options for vegetarians | |
| Solo-traveler friendly |
10. Pub Crawl of Central London
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (395 Reviews) Price: $24.50 per person Duration: 4.5 hours📍Meeting Point: Rumba, 36 Shaftesbury Ave, W1D 7EP Operator: London Party Pub Crawl Details: Read more on Viator Now!
Now, England is pretty proud of its glorious (yet turbulent) history and its grand estates.
But, it’s most proud of its pubs. And, pub culture in the UK is something else. Therefore, if you want to experience the life of a Brit then nab a spot on this Pub Crawl of Central London.
After all, this pub crawl includes skip-the-line entry to five pubs, bars, and nightclubs.
Plus, you’ll receive five free shots as well as exclusive drink discounts all night long.
“Great way to explore the city’s night life. The hosts were really great and the pubs identified were amazing!!”
Pavan (read more reviews now)
Essentially, the tour focuses on Soho, Chinatown, and Piccadilly Circus.
Not an alcohol fan? Sign up anyway and stick to soft drinks instead. Either way, this is one of the best London at night tours for making friends. Cheers!
Pro Tip: Food isn’t included on the tour so you’ll want to eat before embarking on this night tour.
| Pros | Cons |
| No minimum number to book – come along and make new friends in London | Cloakroom fees not included – bring small change |
| Skip-the-line bar and nightclub entry | Not recommended for pregnant women |
| All entrance fees included | Must adhere to a smart-casual dress code with no sportswear or flip-flops |
| A professional photographer will capture the night |
🥂 Busy? Then book this Jack the Ripper Guided Walking Tour now! It’s my personal fave and a great way to learn about London’s dark history. 🥂
Additional London Resources You’ll Love
There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best London at night tours.
Tell me, did your picks for the best London tours at night make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.
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