The “Big Six” of London and a Pub – 5.5 Hour Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see London’s most iconic sights without spending hours in line or on your feet, this “Big Six” of London and a Pub cycling tour offers a compelling choice. Designed to cover major landmarks in about five and a half hours, it balances sightseeing, light exercise, and a touch of local flavor. What makes this tour stand out is its small-group vibe—limiting participants to just eight people—ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed pace. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll gain insights that often get lost in larger tour groups.

One of the biggest perks? The use of hybrid bikes and helmets means comfort and safety are a priority. We especially love how the tour seamlessly combines famous attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Tower Bridge with leisurely stops in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, allowing plenty of photo opportunities and questions. That said, a potential consideration is that the tour is best suited to those with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable cycling around 25 kilometers. It’s a fantastic option if you want an active, immersive way to experience London, especially for travelers who enjoy a bit of outdoor exploration with their sightseeing.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, first-time visitors eager to tick off London’s top sights efficiently, or anyone who enjoys a guided bike ride that’s both informative and fun. If you’re traveling with family or friends, the small group size makes for an intimate experience, perfect for conversations and shared discoveries.

Key Points

• Efficient sightseeing of London’s major landmarks in half a day
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace
• Comfortable hybrid bikes and helmets provided for safety and ease
• Includes several parks and iconic bridges for scenic breaks and photos
• Ideal for moderate cyclists comfortable with cycling 25 km
• Weather is no obstacle—the tour runs in all conditions with appropriate gear

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This 5.5-hour adventure takes you on a well-curated route through London’s most recognisable sights, providing a dynamic way to grasp the city’s grandeur without the fatigue of walking miles. The tour begins at 129 Bayswater Rd, a convenient location near public transportation, making it easy to find and access.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: St. Paul’s Cathedral
Your journey kicks off with a stop at this magnificent church, an essential piece of London’s skyline. While the admission ticket isn’t included, you’ll get a quick overview of its impressive architecture and history from your guide. One reviewer appreciated Ola’s storytelling, noting, “Ola was an absolutely fantastic tour guide!! Truly the best!”

Stop 2: Buckingham Palace
The highlight for many is catching the Changing of the Guard, scheduled depending on the day, which adds a bit of pomp to the morning. Expect about 15 minutes here, where your guide will point out notable details about the palace and royal traditions. Keep in mind, the admission isn’t included, so if you want to go inside, you’ll need separate tickets.

Stop 3: Westminster Abbey
This iconic church, where British monarchs are crowned, is another quick stop. Your guide will share insights into its architecture and significance, making the brief visit quite enriching despite the short time. Again, entrance fees are separate.

Stop 4: Palace of Westminster
Passing by the seat of UK Parliament, you’ll learn about some of the political history that shaped modern Britain. The 10-minute stop offers photo ops and quick facts from your guide.

Stop 5: Tower of London
A top-three London attraction, the Tower is steeped in royal history and tales of intrigue. The stop is brief but packed with stories, and many reviews highlight how guides like Ola make history come alive.

Stop 6: Kensington Palace
Another royal residence that’s a must-see, especially to get a sense of royal life in London. The guide will point out its key features during the quick stop.

Stops 7 & 8: Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens
These two parks are the lungs of central London. Hyde Park gets about 15 minutes of your time, giving you space to breathe, take photos, or just enjoy the scenery. Kensington Gardens is equally beautiful, and both are free to enjoy. Guests often mention how much they appreciated the leisurely pace here—”a perfect break from cycling.”

Stop 9: Tower Bridge
This famous bascule bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities. The 5-minute stop is a quick photo session, but you’ll love how close you get for shots.

Stop 10: The Great Fire of London Monument
Your last stop is the Monument, built to commemorate the 1666 fire that changed London forever. At just five minutes, it offers a final chance to absorb London’s layered history.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a hybrid bike, helmet, and a local guide who is well-versed in the city’s stories. The focus is on sightseeing, so food and drinks are not included, giving you the freedom to explore local pubs or cafes afterward. Reviewers noted Ola’s engaging storytelling and the group’s small size—just five on one occasion—made for a more personal experience.

The Group Dynamic and Practical Details

Limited to a maximum of eight travelers, the small group nature ensures you’ll never feel lost in the crowd. The tour starts at 10:00 am, perfect for a morning adventure, and runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately. Comfortable clothes and moderate physical fitness are recommended, especially since you’ll be cycling around 25 kilometers.

Reviewers consistently pointed out Ola’s knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the history and sights come alive through engaging commentary. The overall value for $68.62 per person is high, considering the personalized approach and the chance to cover a lot of ground in a short time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This bike tour is perfect for travelers who want an active, engaging way to see London’s landmarks without the exhaustion of long walks. It’s especially appealing to those with a moderate level of cycling experience, comfortable riding around 25 km. Families with older children (generally 13+) will find it manageable and enjoyable. It’s also a fantastic choice for visitors who prefer a small, intimate group and personalized guidance over large, impersonal tours.

If you’re intrigued by history, enjoy scenic parks, and want to snap some iconic photos, this tour ticks all those boxes. Plus, the inclusion of notable landmarks like Tower Bridge and the Palace of Westminster makes it a comprehensive introduction to London’s most photographed sights.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and light exercise, making it an excellent way to get your bearings in London. The small-group format, knowledgeable guide, and well-paced route make it a standout choice for travelers who want more than just a bus tour or self-guided wander. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling and want to see many landmarks in a compact timeframe.

While you’ll need to pay separately for any inside visits, the tour’s value lies in the storytelling, the scenery, and the convenience of covering so much ground with expert guidance. The experience is lively, educational, and fun—an energetic way to fall in love with London’s historic heart.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, generally for ages 13 and older, especially those who are comfortable cycling 25 km and can handle moderate physical activity.

Do I need to bring my own bike?
No. The tour provides a hybrid bike and helmet for each participant, ensuring comfort and safety.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, allowing flexibility in your travel plans.

What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable clothes suitable for cycling and weather conditions, as the tour operates in all weather.

Are the attractions’ entry fees included?
No, the admission tickets are not included for stops like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, or the Tower of London.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to eight travelers, fostering a more personalized experience.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins at 10:00 am at the meeting point and concludes back at the same location after about 5.5 hours.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size makes it easy to meet others, and guides are attentive to individual needs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately, and be prepared for a bit of rain or shine.

Whether you’re a history buff, a cycling enthusiast, or simply want a dynamic way to absorb London’s sights, this “Big Six” biking tour offers a memorable, manageable way to explore. With a knowledgeable guide, scenic stops, and a small group setting, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking both activity and insight.