Go City London Explorer Pass: 2-7 Things To do including Shard

Planning a trip to London can be exciting yet overwhelming, especially with so many must-see sights spread across this sprawling city. The Go City London Explorer Pass offers a flexible way to explore the capital, giving you access to between two and seven attractions for a fixed price. It’s a handy tool for travelers who want to maximize their time and budget while soaking in London’s iconic landmarks.

What we really love about this pass is its customizable nature. You decide which attractions to visit, and the digital format means you’re not lugging around paper tickets or worrying about printing. Plus, some attractions offer skip-the-line privileges, a huge plus during busy periods. That said, a potential downside is that you need to plan ahead, especially for reservations or timed entries. If you’re a curious traveler eager to see a good mix of history, culture, and sightseeing, this pass might be a great fit.

This experience suits those who enjoy a flexible schedule, prefer convenience, and want to save money on major sights. Families, first-timers, or even seasoned London explorers who want to tick several boxes without the hassle of individual ticket purchases will find this particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Choose between 2 to 7 attractions based on your interests and schedule.
• Cost Savings: Significant discounts on top sites, with the potential to save hundreds compared to buying tickets separately.
• Validity Period: Use your credits within 30 days of your first visit, giving you plenty of time to explore.
• Mobile Convenience: All tickets are digital, making it easy to manage and access on your phone.
• Skip-the-line: Some attractions include this feature, reducing wait times during busy seasons.
• Variety: Over 90 attractions, including iconic landmarks, tours, museums, and even river cruises.

A Deep Dive Into the London Explorer Pass

What Does the Pass Include?

The London Explorer Pass is essentially a ticket bundle that unlocks entry to a selection of notable attractions. You pick between 2 and 7 sites from a list of over 90 options. Once activated, your pass is valid for 30 days, giving you ample flexibility to fit in your chosen activities.

You receive a digital credits package—each credit corresponds to an attraction, activity, or tour. The beauty of this setup is its ease of use: your pass is on your mobile device, ready to be scanned at each site. This digital approach is especially helpful in a city like London, where queues can be long and paper tickets sometimes get lost or damaged.

How Does It Work in Practice?

The process is straightforward: after purchase, you’ll receive your pass immediately via email or through the Go City app. You can start using it as soon as you visit your first attraction, and you then have up to 30 days to use your remaining credits.

Many of the top attractions are included, from historic sites to modern experiences. For example, you can begin your London adventure with a visit to the Tower of London, then hop to the Skydeck of The Shard for panoramic city views, or stroll through Westminster Abbey and learn about its royal ceremonies.

What Attractions Are Key Highlights?

The itinerary for this pass is packed with notable sights, some of which have been specifically praised by visitors. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular options:

Tower of London

A must-see for history buffs, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in 1066 and has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. Visitors often comment on the imposing nature of the fortress and the opportunity to see the Crown Jewels. The guided tour, led by Yeoman Warders, adds color and insight, making it a highlight for many.

The View from The Shard

London’s tallest building offers breathtaking views from the 72nd floor. The activity requires advanced reservations, and visitors note the indoor viewing gallery and open-air Skydeck provide stunning cityscapes. With the option to have digital photos included, it’s a memorable experience. One reviewer called it a “must-visit” and appreciated the indoor and outdoor options.

Westminster Abbey

This sacred site is synonymous with Royal London. It’s where 16 royal weddings have taken place and almost every British monarch’s coronation has been held. Visitors love the chance to walk through the Gothic halls and explore the famous tombs and memorials. The guided audio tour deepens the experience, making it more engaging.

Tower Bridge

More than just a working bridge, Tower Bridge is a symbol of London. Visitors can walk along the glass floors and learn about its Victorian engineering. Some reviewers mention the spectacular views over the Thames and the opportunity to explore its history through exhibits.

Big Bus Tours

The hop-on-hop-off bus is praised for its convenience and flexibility. With a two-day ticket, you can traverse the city at your own pace, hopping off to visit sights like Buckingham Palace or the British Museum. One reviewer noted the onboard guides were very informative, making the bus tour an educational and practical way to get around.

Kensington Palace

The residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the palace offers a look into royal life, with exhibitions and beautifully decorated rooms. Visitors value the less crowded atmosphere compared to other royal sites and the chance to see the Queen Mary’s State Apartments.

City Cruises

The Thames River cruises are a favorite for their scenic views and relaxed pace. Departing from Westminster, they pass under historic bridges and offer perspectives of the city’s skyline that you just can’t get from land. Several reviews highlight the cruise as a relaxing way to see the sights and learn about London’s maritime history.

What About the Less Obvious Attractions?

Beyond the big-ticket sites, the pass also covers a wide array of museums, historic houses, and even modern entertainment venues. For example, the Royal Albert Hall offers an inside look at one of the world’s most iconic concert halls, while the Royal Observatory Greenwich lets you stand on the Prime Meridian line and learn about astronomy.

Other highlights include visits to Hampton Court Palace, once Henry VIII’s favorite residence, and the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, a sprawling haven of plant life with over 50,000 species. For those interested in art, the Courtauld Gallery houses impressionist masterpieces, and the Museum of Brands offers an intriguing look at consumer culture across the centuries.

Authentic Experiences & Hidden Gems

Several reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, especially at sites like the Tower of London, where Yeoman Warders are praised for their engaging storytelling. The London Bicycle Tour offers sunset rides, which many users found both relaxing and scenic, though advanced reservations are recommended.

The Sherlock Holmes-themed escape game and the Frameless immersive art experience showcase London’s creative side. These unique outings demonstrate the variety available with the pass, making it more than just a sightseeing ticket—it’s a ticket to London’s cultural heartbeat.

Ease of Use & Practical Considerations

Most reviewers agree that the digital format makes the pass easy to manage, especially when traveling light. The app provides plenty of info, including reservation requirements for activities like the Emirates Stadium Tour or the Wembley Stadium Tour. Some users noted the importance of planning ahead, as certain attractions require advance bookings to secure skip-the-line privileges.

One key insight from past users is that the pass offers significant savings, especially if you plan to visit the more expensive sites like Hampton Court or the Royal Observatory. Another tip from reviews: print your passes to avoid wifi issues, and always check the app or digital guide for the latest updates on openings and reservation policies.

Value for Money

At around $74.18 per person for several attractions, the pass is a cost-effective way to see London. For example, reviews cite savings of over £100 per person at attractions like the Tower of London, which makes the pass a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, it’s worth noting that not every site will be of equal interest to everyone; a careful selection based on personal interests will maximize value.

Some reviews mention that the skip-the-line feature enhances the experience, especially during peak seasons, but be aware that some attractions might require extra fees for upgrades or special access.

Who Should Consider the London Explorer Pass?

This pass is ideal for first-time visitors eager to cover major sights without multiple ticket purchases. It also appeals to families or groups wanting a flexible itinerary, since you can tailor your visits and spread them out over 30 days. Budget travelers will appreciate the discounts, while those interested in a wide variety of attractions—museums, historic sites, river cruises, and entertainment venues—will find the options rewarding.

If you prefer structured guided tours or want to avoid planning, note that some attractions require reservations, and the pass itself doesn’t include transportation or meals. For travelers with limited time, the pass helps prioritize must-see sights, but those seeking a more leisurely or immersive experience might prefer individual tickets or guided tours.

The Sum Up

The Go City London Explorer Pass offers a versatile, budget-friendly way to experience London’s most iconic sights. It combines convenience with flexibility, making it a great tool for those who enjoy customizing their sightseeing and want to skip long lines at busy attractions.

The wide range of included sites—from the historic Tower of London and Westminster Abbey to the panoramic views from The Shard—means you can craft a varied and memorable trip. Many reviewers have highlighted the significant savings and ease of use, especially with the digital format and skip-the-line options.

While it requires some planning, especially for booking certain attractions, the pass provides a cost-effective, time-saving way to see a lot of London in a short period. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, and culture lovers keen to explore at their own pace.

If you’re ready to enjoy London’s best while staying flexible and saving money, the London Explorer Pass is well worth considering.

FAQs

How many attractions can I visit with the pass?
You can choose to visit between 2 and 7 attractions from a list of over 90 options, depending on the pass you purchase.

How long is the pass valid?
Your credits are valid for 30 days from the date of your first attraction visit, providing plenty of time to explore.

Do I need to print the pass?
No, the pass is digital, stored on your mobile device via the Go City app. However, printing it out can help avoid wifi issues at some attractions.

Are there skip-the-line options?
Yes, some attractions include skip-the-line privileges, allowing you to save time during busy periods. Be sure to check the specific details for each site.

Can I use the pass for any attraction immediately?
Yes, you can activate your pass as soon as you start using it at your first attraction. Remember, some sites may require reservations, so plan accordingly.

What if an attraction requires booking in advance?
You can use the Go City app or digital guide to make reservations where needed. Some attractions like the Emirates Stadium or the London Bicycle Tour recommend booking ahead.

Is transportation included in the pass?
No, the pass covers entry to attractions only; transportation to/from sites is not included. You’ll need to plan how to get around—public transport, walking, or taxis.

Can I visit the same attraction more than once?
No, each attraction can only be visited once with the pass, but you can select different attractions within your credits.

What should I do if I have issues with my pass?
Contact Go City customer service or the provider listed in your confirmation email. Reviewers have noted that printing your pass and having reservations organized helps streamline the experience.