See The Sights Tours is a small family business where every tour is led by a passionate local tour guide with each tour being carefully designed to give you a real insight into the history, culture and people behind the world's most iconic city.
Your free walking tour of London starts at St Paul’s Cathedral, famous for the royal wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, with its majestic dome dominating London’s skyline.
The tour continues through the ‘Square Mile’ of the City of London into the financial district, where you’ll discover the Bank of England, the home of merchants at the Royal Exchange, and Mansion House, home of the Lord Mayor. Dive into the fascinating history of this influential financial centre and understand its global economic impact.
Next your tour will explore the 700-year-old Leadenhall Market, an architectural gem in the heart of the city before visiting the Monument to the Great Fire of London to hear how King’s baker destroyed the city and changed London forever.
Your tour then leads to the Tower of London with tales of kings, queens and the Crown Jewels. Our knowledgeable tour guides make the tower’s rich history come to life, before bringing you to the world famous Tower Bridge, an engineering marvel and a testament to London’s architectural heritage.
At the end of the tour, all guests will also receive an exclusive FREE digital travel guide of the best things to do in London!
IMPORTANT – Maximum 8 guests per booking including children. Bookings of 9 or more will be cancelled (including multiple bookings).
The tour starts at St Paul's Cathedral next to the two red telephone boxes opposite the main entrance of the Cathedral. The two red telephone boxes are located in front of the Five Guys restaurant. On arrival look for your tour guide holding the yellow umbrella.
St. Paul's Cathedral is an iconic Anglican cathedral designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Completed in 1710 after the Great Fire of London, it features a stunning dome, one of the largest in the world, dominating the city skyline. Renowned for its Baroque architecture, it hosts significant events, including royal ceremonies and state funerals. Its Whispering Gallery and rich history attract millions of visitors annually, symbolizing resilience and faith.
The Tower of London, a historic fortress on the River Thames, was founded by William the Conqueror in 1066. Known for its roles as a royal palace, prison, and treasury, it houses the Crown Jewels and has witnessed pivotal events in British history. Its iconic White Tower is a symbol of Norman power. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors with its legends, Beefeaters, and enduring medieval charm.
Tower Bridge, an iconic landmark in London, spans the River Thames near the Tower of London. Opened in 1894, it combines a suspension bridge with a bascule mechanism, allowing the roadway to lift for passing ships. Its Victorian Gothic style, twin towers, and glass-floored walkways offer breathtaking views. A marvel of 19th-century engineering, Tower Bridge remains a symbol of London’s heritage, blending functionality with architectural beauty and historical significance.
The Bank of England, founded in 1694, is the United Kingdom’s central bank, located in London’s financial district. Known as the "Old Lady of Threadneedle Street," it manages monetary policy, issues currency, and ensures financial stability. Its neoclassical building houses the gold reserves and the Bank of England Museum. A cornerstone of Britain’s economy, it has played a vital role in shaping the nation's financial and economic history.
The Monument to the Great Fire of London, completed in 1677, commemorates the devastating fire of 1666. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke, this 61-meter tall column is located near the fire's origin. Made of Portland stone, it features a golden flame at the top. Visitors can climb 311 steps for panoramic views of London, making it a symbol of resilience and rebirth after the fire.
The Royal Exchange in London, founded in 1565 by Sir Thomas Gresham, was originally a trading hub for merchants. Its elegant building, rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666, features a grand façade and a central courtyard. Historically central to London's financial activity, it housed the London Stock Exchange until the 1970s.
Leadenhall Market dates back to the 14th century and is known for its stunning Victorian architecture. Originally a meat, poultry, and game market, it is now home to shops, restaurants, and offices. With its glass roof, colourful storefronts, and cobbled floors, the market offers a unique shopping experience.
Mansion House serves as the official residence of the Lord Mayor of London. Built in the 18th century, it is an impressive neoclassical building with grand architecture and ornate interiors. Mansion House hosts official functions and events, including banquets and civic ceremonies. Its role as a symbol of the City’s authority and heritage makes it an important landmark in London’s financial district.
The River Thames is London's iconic waterway, stretching 215 miles. It has played a crucial role in the city’s history, serving as a trade route and cultural centre.
The Shard is a striking glass skyscraper designed by architect Renzo Piano. Standing 309 metres tall, it is the tallest building in the UK. Its shard-like design tapers to a pointed tip, making it an iconic part of London's skyline. The Shard houses offices, restaurants, and luxury apartments, with an observation deck offering stunning panoramic views of the city and beyond.
The Sky Garden, located atop the "Walkie Talkie" building in London, offers a unique public space with stunning views of the city. Spanning three levels, it features landscaped gardens, observation decks, and restaurants. At 155 meters high, visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Thames. The Sky Garden is a free-to-visit, urban oasis, combining nature, architecture, and breathtaking views in the heart of London.
Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).
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