Private Family Bike Tour of London

Exploring London on Two Wheels: A Detailed Look at the Private Family Bike Tour

When it comes to seeing London with the family, a bike tour offers a refreshing, active way to tick off the city’s most iconic sights. This private experience, rated a perfect 5.0 from 43 reviews, promises a personalized journey through Royal London and Westminster, with an engaging guide leading the way. With a mix of historical landmarks, charming streets, and interactive stops—including street art and a traditional pub—it’s designed to entertain both kids and adults.

What really shines about this tour is its flexibility and attention to family-friendly details. From provided British bicycles and helmets to hands-on activities like spray-painting street art, it’s clear that this isn’t a typical sightseeing bus. Instead, it’s a lively, immersive adventure that makes discovering London feel fun and effortless. That said, the price point of around $264 per person might seem steep for some, but considering the personalized experience and the variety of highlights covered, many find it offers excellent value.

This kind of tour suits active families, history buffs, or anyone wanting a more intimate, engaging way to see London beyond the usual crowds. If you’re traveling with kids aged 9 months to 10 years, this tour has options for baby seats and ‘tag-along’ bikes, making it accessible for even the youngest explorers. However, be prepared for weather—since it runs in all conditions—and the fact that some major landmarks like Buckingham Palace or the London Eye are viewed from the outside only (not inside).

Key Points

• Highly personalized: Small group, private tour ensures a tailored experience.
• Family-friendly: Bikes for all ages, plus engaging stops for kids.
• Comprehensive route: Covers major landmarks and hidden gems in Westminster and beyond.
• Interactive elements: Street art spray painting and local pub stops enhance the fun.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, energetic guides like Katie and Edward make history lively.
• Value for money: Includes multiple memorable stops, a local guide, and bike equipment.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting at 189 Hercules Road, the tour begins with a friendly introduction and a quick ride around Archbishop’s Park. It’s the perfect way to get comfortable on your bike and make any necessary adjustments. Reviewers mention the bikes—specifically British-made Pashley bikes—as smooth and comfortable, making cycling around London a breeze. Plus, the helmets are available for all sizes, which helps parents relax knowing the little ones are safe.

From there, the route takes you across Lambeth Palace, offering a glimpse of the Archbishop of Canterbury’s residence, and then over to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. These iconic sights are best appreciated from the south side of the Thames, where the tour makes a comfortable stop for photos and commentary. One reviewer loved the “best views of Big Ben,” noting that this vantage point allowed for some memorable snaps.

Next, you’ll explore the backstreets of Westminster, including Smith Square—a quieter area filled with historical buildings—and Dean’s Yard, which has connections to famous figures like Winnie-the-Pooh. While the tour doesn’t include inside visits (notably Westminster Abbey), you’ll get close enough for some great photos and stories about its royal ceremonies and historical significance.

Cycling through St. James’s Park, you’ll see the changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (on certain days), a highlight for many families. Our reviewers loved the perfect timing to catch this tradition—like Catherine_F notes, “Fabulous morning ride” with “informative and witty” guides making the stories come alive.

The route continues through Horseguards Parade, where you can observe the Old Admiralty Building and the Garden of Downing Street. These spots are packed with history and a good chance for a relaxed break. The tour then moves to Green Park, with a brief history of Buckingham Palace, and under Admiralty Arch, where your guide will share the secret of the stone nose—something only the most attentive will notice.

A highlight for many is stopping at Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery. It’s a lively hub, perfect for photos and soaking up the city’s atmosphere. Afterward, you’ll pause at the historic Lamb & Flag pub in Covent Garden, where you can opt for a local beer or just enjoy the vibrant street scene.

Heading towards Buckingham Palace again, the group rides up the Mall, which is closed to cars on Sundays—making this an extra special cycling experience. While you don’t go inside the Palace, the stories from the guide about royal traditions keep the visit engaging. The nearby Covent Garden Market then offers a lively, bustling atmosphere, with shops, street performers, and cafes, perfect for a quick browse or a snack.

The tour wraps up with visits to Cleopatra’s Needle and a brief pass by the London Eye—not going on the ride but getting the perfect photo from a nearby spot. Crossing Westminster Bridge puts you right underneath Big Ben once again, a stunning finale point. A unique stop is the Banksy graffiti tunnel under Waterloo Station, where street art is not only admired but also created, with spray paint provided.

What Does This Tour Offer That Others Don’t?

Many city tours rush past landmarks or stick to buses and walking. This one offers the advantage of cycling, which means you cover more ground comfortably and get a different perspective of London’s streets and parks. The smaller group size enhances the personal touch, allowing guides like Katie and Edward to tailor their stories and keep everyone engaged.

The interactive elements—like graffiti spray painting—are a real hit, especially with kids who enjoy leaving their mark. Plus, stops at local pubs and markets give a taste of London life beyond the usual tourist spots. The ability to pause at lively markets or enjoy a quick pint in a historic pub makes the experience well-rounded and fun.

For families, the gear provided makes it accessible for young children, with options including baby seats and tag-along bikes for children aged 5-10. And despite the price, many reviewers feel the value for the variety of sights, stories, and experiences justifies the cost. One said, “This was one of our very favorite things from our London vacation,” emphasizing its appeal for families and history lovers alike.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, giving enough time to see many highlights without feeling rushed. It starts at 189 Hercules Road and concludes at the same point, making logistics simple. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is advised—think layers and waterproofs if needed.

Booking well in advance (about 46 days on average) is recommended, as this private tour tends to fill quickly—testament to its popularity. The cost of $264.23 per person reflects the personalized experience, quality gear, and expert guides. It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so plan for a snack or lunch afterward.

The guide-to-group ratio ensures you get plenty of attention and tailored commentary. Plus, the luggage storage option is handy if you want to drop off bags during the tour, especially when passing through busy areas.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active families, curious travelers, and those wanting an authentic, engaging way to see London. Kids as young as 9 months with the right gear will find the bike options manageable, while teenagers and adults will appreciate the mix of history, humor, and the chance to add their artistic touch to street art.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a more intimate, personalized experience rather than large group tours. If you’re looking for a fun, physical activity that offers a blend of sightseeing, culture, and local flavor, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, if you have mobility issues, dislike cycling, or prefer inside visits to landmarks, you might want to consider different options. Also, those on a tight schedule should note that this tour is a leisurely exploration—not a rapid-fire sightseeing blitz.

Final Thoughts

This private family bike tour of London offers an engaging, fun way to see the city’s most famous sights and hidden gems. The knowledgeable guides and interactive stops make it stand out from more traditional tours, bringing history and culture alive through stories and hands-on activities. The small group setting ensures a personalized experience, perfect for families or small groups seeking a flexible, memorable adventure.

While the price is on the higher side, the inclusion of quality bikes, helmets, and unique experiences—like street art and pub stops—justify the investment for those wanting a rich, active day in London. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments mixed with iconic landmarks.

In short, if you’re after a lively, family-friendly way to explore London’s core neighborhoods with plenty of stories and surprises, this bike tour is a real winner. Expect a fun, informative, and thoroughly enjoyable day out, with plenty of opportunities to take great photos and make lasting memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes. The tour offers a comfy baby seat for children from 9 months to 5 years old, and stable ‘tag-along’ bikes for kids between 5 and 10 years old, making it accessible for families with young children.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the British-made bicycles, helmets (optional), a local English-speaking guide, and spray paint for the graffiti stop. Luggage storage is also available.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. This policy allows flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Are the landmarks inside the tour?
No, the tour mostly offers outside views and photo opportunities of landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. Entrance tickets are not included or part of the ride.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions. Layers and waterproofs are recommended, especially if rain is forecast.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and riding time.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Since it involves cycling, it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues. However, the provided equipment makes it accessible for most families with children.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 46 days in advance is recommended, as this tour is popular and tends to fill quickly.

Whether you’re a history buff, a family seeking adventure, or just want to see London from a fun new angle, this bike tour offers a memorable and active way to experience the city’s highlights.