Go Up The Shard & London Landmark Walking Tour

Exploring London can feel overwhelming—there’s so much to see, do, and absorb. This full-day tour promises to pack in over 20 of London’s most iconic sights, topped off with a skip-the-line ticket to The Shard’s breathtaking observation deck. Our focus here is on understanding whether this experience delivers both value and memorable moments, especially for first-time visitors eager to get their bearings in this sprawling city.

One of the standout features is the comprehensive itinerary—covering everything from royal palaces to historic bridges—plus the convenience of avoiding long lines at The Shard. The small group size means a more intimate experience, and the knowledgeable guides seem to make a real difference, according to reviews. However, with such a packed schedule, be prepared for a busy day with some walking and quick stops, which might not suit everyone.

This tour is ideal for families, first-time visitors, and those wanting a well-rounded snapshot of London. It’s especially appealing if you’re short on time but want an authentic, guided introduction to the city’s highlights. Just keep in mind that it doesn’t include meals, and you’ll need to meet at the start point—no hotel pickup here.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines a walking tour of over 20 top landmarks with a skip-the-line visit to The Shard.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers praise guides for their friendliness and deep local knowledge.
• Time-Saving: Priority access to The Shard allows you to skip long queues and make the most of your viewing time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids only pay for The Shard entrance, making this a good value for families.
• Varied Sights: From Buckingham Palace to Borough Market, the diverse stops give a well-rounded view of London.
• Pace: Expect a 6-hour day filled with walking, sightseeing, and a scenic elevator ride—good for those comfortable with some activity.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting at Buckingham Palace

Your day kicks off in style at Buckingham Palace, with a stroll through Green Park. The guide will share stories about British Royal history, which adds context beyond just snapping a photo. On certain days, you’ll have the chance to witness the Changing of the Guard—a classic London spectacle that many find unforgettable. The guide’s tip: arrive early for the best viewing spot, as this is a popular event. Note that admission to the Palace itself isn’t included, but the exterior view and stories add plenty of royal flavor to the morning.

Trafalgar Square & Horse Guards Parade

Next, you’ll head to Trafalgar Square, London’s bustling hub, where Nelson’s Column and the fountains make for great photo ops. The guide will point out key buildings, including the National Gallery. Just a quick stop—about 20 minutes—this is perfect for soaking in some classic London scenery without a long wait.

Then, it’s on to Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall, where you’ll admire the iconic arch and maybe snap a picture of the famous Horse Guards. Noteworthy is the view of St. James Park, giving a glimpse of London’s green spaces amid the city’s hustle.

Whitehall & Parliament Square

Walking along Whitehall, you’ll pass by the grand government buildings and Downing Street—where British Prime Ministers have resided since 1735. This section offers a sense of London’s political heartbeat. Then, at Parliament Square, you’ll see the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben, and the Churchill Statue from outside, with plenty of opportunities for photos and commentary from your guide.

Westminster Abbey and Southbank

A quick walk or tube ride takes you to Westminster Abbey, one of London’s most magnificent religious buildings with over a thousand years of history, and the site of royal coronations. Though the tour doesn’t include entry, the exterior views and the guide’s stories make it worthwhile.

From there, you’ll venture to Southbank, a lively area along the Thames. Here, you’ll find the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, perfect for capturing London’s cultural pulse. This part of the tour emphasizes the city’s vibrant arts scene and scenic riverside views.

Millennium Bridge & Borough Market

Crossing the Millennium Bridge, known locally as the “Wobbly Bridge,” offers a stunning perspective of St. Paul’s Cathedral—the iconic dome is especially photogenic from here. Then, your guide will take you inside Borough Market, one of London’s most beloved food markets, where you can sample local treats and see some secret Harry Potter filming locations—if lucky.

London Bridge & The Shard

Finally, you’ll visit London Bridge itself, which offers sweeping views of Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, HMS Belfast, and the Southwark Cathedral. This is a great spot for photos and soaking in the historic and modern contrasts of London’s riverfront.

Your tour wraps up at The Shard, where you’ll ascend to the 68th level via a high-speed elevator. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views extending up to 40 miles, with the option to step out onto the open-air platform on level 72 if you’re feeling brave. The view is the highlight here, giving a spectacular bird’s-eye perspective of London’s skyline—and it’s a chance to truly appreciate the city’s scale and beauty.

Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

The combination of walking and sightseeing allows visitors to see a breadth of London’s most famous sites without feeling overwhelmed. The skip-the-line access to The Shard is especially valuable, saving an hour or more of waiting—perfect for those on a tight schedule or eager to maximize their time at the top.

The small group size means more personal attention from your guide, who is often praised for their friendliness and deep knowledge. According to reviews, guides like “Sean_W” have made the experience memorable by sharing stories and offering to help with photos, making each stop more engaging.

The itinerary balances major attractions with some entertainment—like Borough Market’s vibrant food scene and the iconic views from Millennium Bridge—giving a full sensory experience of London.

The Value

At $116.34, the price might seem steep, but considering the priority access to The Shard, the guided commentary, and the comprehensive list of sites, it offers decent value—especially for first-time visitors who want a curated introduction. Kids only pay for The Shard, making it more affordable for families.

The Caveats

While the tour covers a lot, it’s quite packed—expect to walk briskly and move quickly through each stop. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a full day of activity and are comfortable with some walking and standing. Also, since no meals are included, you might want to plan a break or bring snacks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors who want an overview of London’s most iconic sights in a single day. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly pricing for The Shard, and those interested in panoramic views will find the observation deck the absolute highlight. If you’re keen on learning from a knowledgeable guide who can weave in stories and insider tips, this tour delivers.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want in-depth visits to museums or royal interiors, you may want to consider other options. This tour prioritizes breadth over depth, making it ideal for those wanting a quick yet comprehensive snapshot of London.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and kids only pay for The Shard entrance ticket. The guide’s stories and the engaging stops make it interesting for younger travelers, but be prepared for a busy schedule.

Do I need to bring my own transportation?
No, the tour starts at The Ritz London and ends at The Shard, with directions provided. You will need to meet at the starting point; there’s no hotel pickup included.

Are tickets for The Shard included?
Yes, your ticket to The Shard’s viewing gallery is included in the price, and you’ll be given directions to reach it after the walking part of the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, with around 5 hours of guided walking and sightseeing, plus an hour at The Shard.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a contactless bank or travel card for underground travel, and perhaps a snack or water. Food and drinks are not included.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to check with the provider if you need accommodations.

Final Thoughts

This Go Up The Shard & London Landmark Walking Tour offers a well-balanced way to see London’s highlights in a single day, paired with the unforgettable experience of viewing the city from above. Its strength lies in the knowledgeable guides and priority access to The Shard, making it particularly appealing for first-time visitors wanting a hassle-free, guided introduction.

While it’s a busy day with a packed itinerary, the variety of sights—from royal palaces and historic landmarks to lively markets and stunning panoramic views—ensures you’ll leave with a broad appreciation for London’s charm. It is suited for travelers who want a guided, efficient, and comprehensive city overview without the fuss of arranging individual tickets or transport.

For those eager to tick many boxes on their London list in one go, this tour is quite a compelling option. Just be prepared for a day full of walking, learning, and spectacular views—an experience that captures the essence of London in just one memorable day.