London: Landmarks & Secrets Bike Tour with Pub & Street Art

Imagine cruising through the heart of London on a vintage bicycle, feeling the breeze, and seeing the city from a local’s perspective. That’s exactly what this London: Landmarks & Secrets Bike Tour offers—an energetic, engaging way to kickstart your visit. Whether you’re a history buff, a street art lover, or simply after a fun way to cover ground, this tour balances the big sights with the city’s lesser-known treasures.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love how it combines cycling through iconic sights like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace with visits to secret corners and hidden wartime bunkers. Second, the inclusion of a pub stop at a top-rated real ale pub adds a genuine taste of British pub culture—no tourist trap here. The only caveat? The tour lasts just 3.5 hours, so it’s a brisk, energetic ride, and not ideal if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility concerns.

This tour suits active travelers eager to see London’s highlights with a local twist, those who enjoy a bit of adventure, and anyone looking for a memorable, authentic experience rather than just a bus tour or self-guided walk.

Key Points

• Authentic London experience: Combines famous sights with hidden gems.
• Active and fun: Suitable for those comfortable on a bike and ready for a bit of physical activity.
• Cultural highlights: Includes pub culture, street art, and historic landmarks.
• Knowledgeable guides: Rated highly for their friendly, informative approach.
• Great value: At around $87.55, offers a well-rounded, memorable half-day.
• Weather considerations: Tour takes place rain or shine, so prepare accordingly.

The London: Landmarks & Secrets Bike Tour is a lively, well-paced way to get a comprehensive snapshot of the city. It’s designed for those who want to see the major sights but with a twist—adding hidden corners, street art, and local flavor. Starting at Lambeth Palace, the tour kicks off with a sense of history and royal splendor, as you pedal past Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace. These staples are great photo ops, and you’ll get a different perspective from your bike than from walking or sightseeing buses.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The route is crafted to balance iconic landmarks with quieter, more interesting spots. An early stop at Lambeth Palace introduces you to the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, setting a tone of history and tradition. As you head through Archbishop’s Park and along Lambeth Palace Road, you’ll enjoy some of London’s more peaceful neighborhoods away from tourist crowds.

Passing by the Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, you’ll witness the grandeur of Parliament and the Abbey’s gothic architecture. The tour allows you to stop for photos at key points like St John’s Smith Square and Westminster Abbey, giving you time to capture the moments. You’ll also pedal through St James’s Park, a lush green oasis amid the city’s royal and political hub.

Next, your ride takes you past Buckingham Palace, where a photo stop offers that classic royal shot. From here, the route heads toward Trafalgar Square, a bustling hub of London life, and then into Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers, shops, and lively atmosphere.

A Taste of Local Life

One of the highlights is the pub stop at the Lamb & Flag, London’s oldest tavern. Here, travelers often comment on how pleasant it is to sit down, sip a drink, and enjoy some local snacks. It’s a chance to unwind and socialize with your fellow riders, making the experience more personable.

For those interested in street art, the tour’s finale takes you to Leake Street, a renowned graffiti hotspot often dubbed London’s “Bansky alley.” You’ll even get spray paint to contribute your own artistic touch—a fun, creative way to leave a personal mark on London’s vibrant street art scene. Many reviews mention the graffiti session as a memorable highlight, with one traveller noting, “the spray painting in the end was my favorite part and something I wouldn’t have known I could do on my own.”

What to Expect on the Ride

The tour’s duration of 3.5 hours means it’s brisk but not rushed. You’ll be cycling through quaint back streets, bike lanes, and major avenues, with plenty of time at each stop for photos and questions. The guide, rated highly across reviews, is engaging, knowledgeable, and keeps the pace lively without overwhelming. They also take photos for you and provide helpful tips along the way.

The bikes are classic British made Pashley cycles, known for their comfort and style, and helmets or flat caps are optional. The route is designed to be accessible to anyone comfortable on a bike, but all riders should be aware that the tour does not cater to children under 12 due to bike sizing.

Practical Details and Value

The price of $87.55 is reasonable given the scope of the experience—covering major landmarks, insider tips, pub culture, street art, and a friendly group environment. The tour includes bicycles, helmets (or optional flat caps), spray paint for graffiti, and rain ponchos if needed. Food and drinks are not included, but the pub stop allows you to purchase your own, and local snacks are available at the pub.

Meeting at 189 Hercules Road, near Lambeth North and Waterloo stations, it’s easy to access the starting point. The activity runs rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather. The tour is primarily in English, and private groups can be arranged—making it perfect for families, friends, or travel groups wanting a personalized experience.

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Authenticity and Reviews

The overwhelmingly positive reviews (average of 4.9 out of 5 from 292 travelers) point to friendly guides, well-planned routes, and a good mix of sights and surprises. Several reviewers highlight guides like Olivia, Stewart, and Katie, praising their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness. Comments such as “Jasper was a lovely tour guide and made sure we were all safe throughout the entire tour” and “Olivia was a fantastic guide, showing us hidden gems along with iconic sights” underscore how much guides contribute to the experience.

Many travelers appreciated the opportunity to see London’s famous landmarks from a different angle—a perspective that’s hard to get from a bus or on foot. The street art segment, especially, receives high praise for its interactive and creative element. One reviewer noted, “The spray painting in the end was my favorite part and something I wouldn’t have known I could do on my own,” highlighting how this tour offers an unexpected, personal touch.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This bike tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable cycling for a few hours, those eager to combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure. It’s particularly attractive if you’re interested in hidden gems, street art, and local pubs. It’s not ideal for young children under 12 or people with mobility issues, as bicycles and a 3.5-hour pace are part of the experience.

Travelers who appreciate informative guides and authentic local experiences will find this tour well worth the price. It offers a well-rounded, memorable way to understand London’s vibrant character beyond the usual tourist spots.

The Sum Up

This bike tour offers a fantastic balance of sightseeing, culture, and fun. You’ll cover some of London’s most iconic sights, discover hidden corners, and even try your hand at street art—making it a well-rounded introduction to the city. The knowledgeable guides, lively atmosphere, and inclusion of local pub culture make it more than just a bike ride; it’s an authentic slice of London life.

If you’re active, curious, and eager to see London from a fresh perspective, this tour will serve you well. It’s an affordable, engaging way to kickstart your trip—full of stories, stunning views, and a few surprises along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour does not cater to children under 12 because all bicycles are adult/teen sizes.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, and be prepared for possible rain as the tour runs rain or shine. Helmets or flat caps are optional.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is 189 Hercules Road, London, near Lambeth North and Waterloo stations.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including stops for photos and breaks.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you’ll have a pub stop where you can purchase your own.

Can I join this tour alone or with friends?
Yes, the tour runs as a group, and private groups are available if you want a more personalized experience.

Is the tour accessible for all fitness levels?
While the route is designed to be manageable, it’s best suited for those comfortable on a bike and able to handle a 3.5-hour ride.

What is the guide like?
Travelers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, local knowledge, sense of humor, and attentiveness.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during busy seasons. You can reserve now and pay later with flexible options.

This bike tour offers a lively, authentic way to experience London—perfect for those who want a bit of adventure, culture, and good old-fashioned fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: