London: South Bank Walking Tour & Enter The Tower of London

An In-Depth Look at the London: South Bank Walking Tour & Enter The Tower of London

Exploring London often means hopping between famous landmarks, but this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines a lively walk along the South Bank with a fascinating visit to the Tower of London. Designed for travelers who want both outdoor exploration and immersive history, this experience packs in a lot for a reasonable price.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see over 15 iconic sights in one go, paired with the unique opportunity to explore the Tower’s treasures with an included ticket. The guide’s local expertise and friendly storytelling bring the city’s stories alive. The stunning views of landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard make the walk memorable, and the guided Beefeater tour inside the Tower adds that authentic royal touch.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour’s duration of four hours—a fair chunk of sightseeing, so travelers should be prepared for some walking and a bit of a pace. Also, since transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to plan how to get to and from the meeting point or budget for a small underground journey. Overall, it’s ideal for those eager to get a taste of London’s history, architecture, and vibrant street life in one balanced package.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction, history buffs interested in the Crown Jewels, or families looking for a lively day out. If you enjoy guided walks packed with interesting stories, this tour hits the spot.

Contents hide

1 Exploring London’s South Bank and Tower of London: The Complete Experience

2 The Sum Up

3 FAQ

Key Points

Comprehensive sightseeing: Over 15 landmarks covered during the walking tour.
Exclusive access: Entry to the Tower of London, including the Crown Jewels, White Tower, and more.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable, fun local guides who share interesting facts and stories.
Photogenic views: Stunning vistas of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, and the Square Mile.
Flexible options: Join an official Beefeater-led tour inside the Tower at no extra cost.
Practical details: About 4 hours long, with meeting point conveniently outside Southwark Station.

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Exploring London’s South Bank and Tower of London: The Complete Experience

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.

Starting Point and Overview of the Tour

The adventure begins outside Southwark Underground Station, a central and accessible meeting point. Your guide, full of enthusiasm and local knowledge, will be easy to spot and ready to introduce you to London’s vibrant South Bank area. Expect about two hours of walking through the outdoors, taking in sights, sounds, and stories along the Thames’ lively stretch.

The route is designed to maximize your exposure to London’s most recognizable landmarks. Walking at a comfortable pace, your guide will point out the historical and modern significance of each site, making the sights come alive with anecdotes and fun facts.

The Highlights of the South Bank Walk

Your journey will take you past London Bridge and Tower Bridge, two of the city’s most recognizable symbols. While the current London Bridge is a modern structure, it’s still impressive, and your guide will share the history of how it’s evolved. Tower Bridge, with its iconic twin towers and bascule mechanism, offers a stunning photo opportunity, especially with the Thames flowing beneath.

As you stroll, you’ll also see the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, a faithful recreation of the Bard’s original playhouse, and the historic Clink Prison, which hints at London’s darker past. The juxtaposition of ancient and contemporary architecture—like The Shard, rising sharply in the distance—provides a visual narrative of London’s evolution.

Your guide will also help you appreciate the panoramic views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the financial district, known as the Square Mile. Many travelers comment on how the guide’s storytelling makes the scenery more meaningful—knowing the stories behind the buildings adds depth to the experience.

Entering the Tower of London: A Journey Into History

After the walk, the tour shifts gears with entry to the Tower of London. This historic fortress, dating back almost 1,000 years, is a must-see for any visitor interested in royal history, medieval architecture, and legends. The included ticket grants access to major highlights like the White Tower, the oldest part of the complex, and the Crown Jewels, which are guaranteed to impress with their opulence.

Once inside, you have the choice to join a Beefeater-led tour, available every half hour at no extra cost. These guides are the real deal—hardened Yeoman Warders who bring the Tower’s history to life with engaging stories and a bit of royal humor. Many visitors have appreciated their insights, noting, “The Beefeater tour was lively and full of fascinating facts.”

The Tower’s exhibits contain a range of artifacts, including ancient weapons, armor, and historical documents that help you understand its role over the centuries—both as a royal residence and a prison. Their stories reveal the complex history of Britain’s monarchy and its sometimes dark past.

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Practicalities and Considerations

Cost-wise, at $132.01 per person, this tour offers good value considering the entrance fee to the Tower and the guided experience. The combination of outdoor sightseeing and indoor exploration allows for a balanced day out. Remember, food and drinks are not included, so bring some snacks to keep your energy up, especially if you plan to spend extra time exploring the Tower after the guided tour.

Getting to the meeting point is straightforward if you’re already in central London, and a small underground journey (~£5) might be needed if you’re coming from afar. The tour includes a live English-speaking guide and is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for many travelers.

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Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides for their storytelling, with comments like “The guide made the sights come alive with fun facts and interesting stories.” The opportunity to see the Crown Jewels and White Tower up close is a highlight, as one visitor noted, “It’s a chance to see history’s treasures without the long lines on your own.”

Several travelers mention how the views along the walk enhance the experience—the panorama of St. Paul’s especially stands out. The combination of walking, historical exploration, and the Tower visit creates a well-rounded introduction to London.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, guided introduction to central London and want to see some of its most iconic sights while also gaining insider knowledge, this tour checks many boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy walking tours, appreciate historical details, and want a hassle-free way to access the Tower’s treasures.

However, if mobility is a concern, or if you prefer a more relaxed pace with plenty of breaks, you might want to consider how much walking is involved. Also, since transport isn’t included, travelers should plan accordingly, especially if arriving from outside the city center.

The Sum Up

This combined South Bank walk and Tower of London visit offers an excellent balance of outdoor sightseeing, historical insights, and exclusive access to one of Britain’s most famous castles. The guides’ engaging storytelling, coupled with stunning views and the chance to see priceless artifacts, makes it a memorable experience. It’s a good choice for first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a lively, educational day out in London.

The value lies in the carefully curated mix of sights, the insider stories, and the convenience of an all-in-one ticket. If you’re seeking a well-organized, engaging overview of London’s past and present—without the hassle of plan-making—this tour is worth considering. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring a raincoat or umbrella, and prepare for a full but rewarding day exploring this vibrant city.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the tour?
Your guide will meet you outside the entrance/exit of Southwark Underground Station, which is a single, easy-to-find entrance.

How long is the walking part of the tour?
The outdoor walking tour lasts about 2 hours, covering over 15 sights along the South Bank and nearby areas.

Is the entrance to the Tower of London included?
Yes, your ticket grants you entry to the Tower of London, including main attractions like the Crown Jewels and White Tower.

Can I join the Beefeater tour inside the Tower?
Absolutely. The Beefeater-led tour is included in your ticket and runs every half hour.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks or plan to buy something during or after the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Weather-appropriate clothing, including an umbrella, is advisable as the walk is outdoors.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for many travelers with mobility needs.

This tour combines the best of London’s street life and royal history, making it a smart choice for a day that’s both fun and informative. Whether you’re a history buff or just eager to see the city’s highlights, it delivers a memorable experience.