free walking tours in london

Explore London's Rich History for Free

Are you on a tight budget while on your visit to London? Welcome to our ultimate guide to the best free walking tours in London. There's no better way to discover London's rich cultural heritage on a budget than participating in one of these tours, whether you are a history buff or an architecture buff. Enjoy the freedom of not having to pay anything for a short and interesting tour.

Yes, you heard that right, these tours are completely free. Below are our recommended tours to take.

1. Soho & Mayfair Free Tour

Piccadilly Circus, A Vibrant Hub In The Heart Of London

On this walking tour, your guide will take you on an immersive walk along the lively streets of Soho and Mayfair. During a couple of hours, your guide will show you Soho's eclectic history and Mayfair's upscale shopping scene. The tour's highlights are Piccadilly Circus, St. James Square, The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason and Bond Street.

• Meeting Point: Boots store, under the screen at Piccadilly Circus
• Duration of Tour: 2 Hours
• Language: English

2. Free Jack The Ripper Crime & Punishment Tour

Free Walking Tours In London | Jack The Ripper Serial Killer

Uncover London's chilling history with the Free Jack The Ripper Crime & Punishment Tour. A 2.5-hour tour mainly focused on exploring the iconic sites linked to Jack the Ripper, Henry VIII, and Guy Fawkes. Whilst walking and visiting the locations, the tour guide will delve into the historical crimes, punishments, and executions. After concluding this interesting tour, your guide will give you a complimentary digital London travel guide for free. On this tour, wear comfortable walking shoes as this is a walking tour. This tour is not dedicated to those with mobility issues.

• Meeting Point: Outside Starbucks at the Tower of London.
• Duration of Tour: 2.5 Hours
• Language: English

3. Buckingham Palace & Big Ben Walking Tour

Free Foot Tours London | Explore The Beauty of Buckingham Palace

Explore the two most iconic landmarks in the world, which are Buckingham Palace and the newly renovated Big Ben. Endure a two-hour walk learning about these key sights from your local guide as well as exploring other fascinating landmarks on the way. This tour will provide a comprehensive overview of London's royal and political heritage. If you are a first-time visitor, then this is the perfect tour for you. Don't forget, it's Free!

• Meeting Point: Ferdinand Foch Horse statue
  
• Duration of Tour: 2 Hours
• Language: English

4. London Docklands Free Tour

Free Walking Tours By Foot | Tower Bridge in London, UK

Uncover the rich history and modern transformation of the London Docklands on this free walking tour. Along the way, you will visit some key locations such as the Canary Wharf, the Museum of London Docklands, and historic docks. Amongst those, you will witness some amazing views of the city as you walk past the waterways and big pools. It is advisable to bring comfortable walking shoes.

• Meeting Point: Trinity Square Gardens
• Duration of Tour: 1.5 Hours
• Language: English

5. Free City Tour Around Greenwich

Free Walking Tours In London | The Historic University of Greenwich

This fascinating tour allows you to explore the historic and maritime district of Greenwich. Along the way, you will get to witness some spectacular sights such as beautifully restored 19th-century tea clipper ship known as Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory Sundial and its home to the Prime Meridian and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Apart from these, you will walk through the quiet streets that lead to one of London's biggest parks.

• Meeting Point: Outside *Cutty Sark DLR station
• Duration of Tour: 1.5 Hours
• Language: English

6. Free London Music Walking Tour

Free London Walking Tours | Typical London Street

Step into the rhythm of London's musical past with the Free London Music Walking Tour. This musical tour will take you down 'Tin Pan Alley', home of the British publishers and songwriters and their meeting place, The Giaconda. This tour, led by a local guide, will visit sites associated with world-famous legends like The Beatles, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, and Adele and plenty more. Before departing the tour, your guide will provide you with a free digital London travel guide.

• Meeting Point: The White Hart Pub in Covent Garden
• Duration of Tour: 2.5 Hours
• Language: English

7. Richmond & Richmond Park Free Tour

Free Tour By Foot in London | Discover Beautiful Parks On A Rainy Day

Uncover the natural vibrancy of Richmond and Richmond Park on this stunning free walking tour. Indulge yourself in the marvellous scenic views and the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. Your local guide will take you to the following iconic landmarks including Richmond Palace, Richmond Green, the historic White Cross pub and the sprawling beauty of Richmond Park. Join this tour to enjoy a couple of hours of London's most picturesque locales.

• Meeting Point: Richmond Tube Station
• Duration of Tour: 2.5 Hours
• Language: English

8. City of London Free Tour: St. Paul’s Cathedral to Tower Bridge

Free Tours In London | Tower Bridge With Tower Of London On The Left

Explore the historic heart of London on this comprehensive free tour, and learn about the fascinating past of this place. During your walk, your guide will take you to see the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London and the iconic Tower Bridge. Along the way, delve into the rich history and architectural marvels of the City of London. Learn about the rich history, from the plague, fire, and the Second World War.

• Meeting Point: Queen Anne Statute (In front of Saint Paul´s Cathedral)
  
• Duration of Tour: 1.5 Hours
• Languages: English and Spanish

9. Free Tour Camden Town

Free Tours By Foot London | Camden's Scenic Canals and Historic Locks

Enjoy a free walking tour of Camden Town's eclectic and vibrant atmosphere. Experience Camden's famous markets, legendary music venues, and cultural hotspots, which reflect its rich alternative scene and artistic heritage. Together with your guide, you will delve into the area's history, from its roots in the punk rock movement to its current status as a creative hub. Enjoy the true spirit of the city.

• Meeting Point: Opposite Camden Town Underground Exit, by Barclays Bank
• Duration of Tour: 1.5 Hours
• Languages: English and Spanish

10. Free Ghosts, Ghouls & Ghastly Murders Tour

Free Walking Tours In London | Exploring Ghosts And Ghastly Murders

Embark to explore the darker side of London with these Ghosts, Ghouls & Ghastly Murders Tour. If you enjoy spine-chilling stories, then this is perfect for you. During this tour, your guide will walk you through historic streets and hidden alleys whilst reminiscing some haunting stories about infamous crimes, mysterious events, and sinister figures that have left their mark on London. If you are a thrill-seeker and a fan of the macabre, don't miss the opportunity to take this free tour.

• Meeting Point: Cleopatra's Needle
• Duration of Tour: 1.5 Hours
• Language: English

free tours in london england

11. Free Street Art Tour of Shoreditch

Free Walking tours London | Uncover Stories Through Shoreditch Street Art

Let the street art tell you the stories of the people of London! Explore the street art of Shoreditch with this amazing tour. If you love colourful art and dynamic exploration, this tour will show you a unique side of London full of artistic heritage. Along the way, your guide will show you the fascinating stories and inspirations behind certain artwork and how Shoreditch evolved into what it is today. 

• Meeting Point: Shoreditch High Street Overground Station, Braithwaite Street, E1 6GJ
  
• Duration of Tour: 2 Hours
• Language: English

12. Free Sherlock Holmes Tour

London Free Walking Tour | The Sherlock Holmes Pub Restaurant In St James's

Are you a fan of the Sherlock Holmes? This tour will take you through the London streets and visit the iconic sites from Arthur Conan Doyle's iconic books and other adaptations. Whilst on foot, you will hear great stories about Conan Doyle's life and how he got the inspiration for Sherlock Holmes. There is a pub called the Sherlock Holmes Pub which you will be visiting amongst other locations nearby.

• Meeting Point: Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, Piccadilly Circus
• Duration of Tour: 2 Hours
• Language: English

In conclusion, this guide is perfect if you are on a tight budget and looking to save a penny. Although a tip is appreciated, it is still optional. All the tours mentioned in this guide offer a comprehensive exploration of London, from the iconic landmarks to visiting areas you might not visit if not with a tour. Embrace every opportunity to uncover London's treasures on foot.

question about free walking tours in london 

Photo sources & resources

• Tours number 2, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12 are from FreeTour.com
• Greenwich - Photo by Darko M. on Unsplash
  

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