The Total London Taxi Tour Experience with a Local Guide

If you’re looking to explore London’s most famous sights in a relaxed, flexible way, the Total London Taxi Tour might just be your perfect fit. This private, 7-hour journey offers the chance to see everything from Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge in a classic black cab, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who’s also a licensed driver. It’s a great way to soak up London’s sights while enjoying the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle.

One of the standout features is the personalized experience — no large bus crowds, just your family or friends, and a guide ready to tailor the day to your interests. We love how this tour balances iconic photo opportunities with insider insights, making each stop meaningful. But, a potential consideration is that entry fees and food aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for those extras. This experience suits travelers who cherish comfort, flexibility, and a more intimate way to visit London’s landmarks.

Key Points

• Private, flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences.
• Expert guide who is both a licensed cabbie and licensed tour guide.
• Visit over 20 landmarks including Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and St Paul’s.
• Opportunity to see Changing the Guard (subject to schedule and weather).
• Customizable stops for photos, refreshments, or short walks.
• Comfortable private black taxi accommodating up to 6 guests.

An Up-Close Look at the Experience

The tour kicks off with your pickup from any central London address, making it super convenient whether you’re staying in a hotel or an Airbnb. From the moment your guide, who’s a seasoned London cabbie with official qualifications, greets you, it’s clear that local knowledge is a priority. Their passion and expertise shine through as they narrate stories, fun facts, and historical tidbits about each landmark.

Starting with the Changing of the Guard

One of the highlights, especially for first-time visitors, is the chance to witness the Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace, assuming you start the tour by 09:30 am. This is a classic London moment—soldiers in bearskins, a military band, and the pageantry of tradition. Your guide will advise on the best viewing spots, as this ceremony doesn’t happen daily but is usually on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Keep in mind, weather or big events might cause cancellations, so flexibility is key.

Landmarks in the First Leg

From Buckingham Palace, the tour weaves through Westminster, where you’ll get a great photo stop at Westminster Abbey and Parliament Square. Watching the Big Ben chime is always a thrill, and your guide’s commentary will help bring the sights to life. Many reviewers appreciated how their guides shared interesting anecdotes about these landmarks, adding depth beyond just a photo.

Stop at Horse Guards Parade for some regal shots before moving on to Downing Street—note, for privacy reasons, you won’t see the Prime Minister’s residence, but many enjoy the exterior photos. The tour continues through historic Westminster, with photo stops at Whitehall and St. James’s Palace.

Mid-Morning Break and More Iconic Sights

In the next phase, you’ll visit Trafalgar Square, a hub of activity and an ideal spot for people-watching. Moving towards the West End, you’ll see Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Street from the vehicle, with options to hop out and capture the vibrant city life.

Embracing the Royal and Cultural Heart of London

The tour then ventures east to Tower of London and Tower Bridge, two of London’s most recognizable medieval structures. The Tower, with its crown jewels and history of royal intrigue, is a must-see. You’ll also get a close-up view of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye, both providing fantastic photo opportunities.

The Final Stretch: Parks and Panoramas

The last part of the day includes a scenic stop at Hyde Park, perfect for a quick walk or a picnic if you’re hungry. Ending near the West End, you’ll take in the lively atmosphere at Piccadilly Circus before heading back to your original pickup point.

The Value of the Tour

At around $1,205 for up to six people, this tour offers a high-value, personalized experience that surpasses typical group sightseeing buses. The private taxi allows for stops to stretch, take photos, or grab a quick refreshment, providing a more relaxed, comfortable way to see the sights. Many travelers, like the reviewer who called their guide “the best in Europe,” appreciated the knowledge and enthusiasm of their guide, which added a genuine human touch to the sightseeing.

While entry fees aren’t included, this isn’t unusual for private tours, and you’ll have the flexibility to choose what to visit inside attractions. The seven-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to see the major landmarks but not so long that you get exhausted.

The Guides

All guides are carefully selected, having passed “The Knowledge”—London’s rigorous licensing exam—and are qualified tour guides. Their dual expertise as cabbies and guides means they can navigate the city efficiently while sharing insightful stories. As one traveler noted, “Simon was by far the very best of all guides I’ve experienced in Europe,” highlighting the quality of personal attention you’ll receive.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible way to see London without the hassle of big bus crowds. Families, small groups, or couples will benefit from the intimate setting and the opportunity to customize the route. It’s also perfect if you appreciate local insights and want a driver-guide who can offer both historical context and practical travel tips.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or looking for an all-inclusive experience with entry fees covered, this might not be the best option. Also, if you prefer to explore sites on foot or in a guided group to meet other travelers, a different tour style might suit you better.

The Sum Up

The Total London Taxi Tour offers a fantastic way to see London’s most iconic sights in a relaxed, personalized manner. The combination of a private, comfortable vehicle, an expert guide, and the ability to tailor the stops makes it a memorable option, especially for those who want to avoid the crowds and have a more intimate experience.

For first-timers or repeat visitors alike, this tour provides a rundown of London’s landmarks, enriched by local knowledge and flexible stops. The high-quality guides, which many travelers praise, ensure that you’re not just ticking off sights but truly understanding what makes London special.

While it is a premium experience with a premium price tag, many find the comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance well worth the investment. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, customization, and authentic local insights over a generic sightseeing bus.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, the tour is designed for private groups of up to 6 people, making it perfect for families or small parties wanting a tailored experience.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll visit over 20 landmarks, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Piccadilly Circus, and more.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, if you start your tour by 09:30 am, your guide will help you secure a good viewing spot for this iconic ceremony, depending on schedule and weather.

Are there opportunities to stop for photos or refreshments?
Absolutely. The tour includes plenty of opportunities for photo stops, short walks, or quick refreshment breaks along the way.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private taxi, guide, and all stops for sightseeing. Entry fees and food or drinks are not included.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of travelers.

In essence, the Total London Taxi Tour offers a personalized, insight-rich way to explore London’s highlights, perfect for those wanting comfort and flexibility in their sightseeing.