It's easy to get to see the big sights of a city, but to really get to know a place you have to spend some time down its side alleys. Get away from the tourist traps and discover some local landmarks with one of these cool and quirky London tours. From the best beers in Bermondsey to movie-scene spots and the sordid secrets of the city's ghoulish and ghastly history, read our recommendations for the best quirky walks and tours in London.
Can you crack the case? StreetHunt Games is putting your mystery solving skills to the test, with their quirky outdoor activity that combines a scavenger hunt with amateur sleuthing. Better yet, this self-guided experience is fully flexible and lets you see some of the most interesting streets in London.
An immersive journey through the city led by experts in travel and tourism, Unique Tours offer a whole new way to see the capital. Their high-energy walking tours promise lots of storytelling and dramatic flair, and they end with a sumptuous meal from The Great Scotland Yard Hotel.
They focus on palaces and royal landmarks, with two different tours on offer. You can see everything from Buckingham Palace to St James's or even the Changing of the Guard, and you'll finish with either a luxury picnic or a Michelin star Sunday roast.
@ Various Venues, London on Various dates from Saturday 26th September 2026
Calling all music lovers: this rock n roll tour is just for you. With over two decades in the music industry, Stephen Channell invites you for a black cab tour of some of London's most iconic musical landmarks; from Jimi Hendrix's flat to the location where Bowie shot his iconic Ziggy Stardust cover.
Looking for a quirky way to get around the city? Check out Bustronome, where you'll be treated to amazing views atop a double decker; all while tucking into a mouthwatering menu with specially paired wines. You've never seen this before.
Eyes this way, Potter fans! Fancy getting up close and personal with some actual, real-life Harry Potter filming locations? What about being sorted into a Hogwarts house and using your superior spell knowledge to outwit other houses? Well this quirky London tour will be bringing you all that a then some. You can leave your Firebolt at home as this tour takes you on foot from the entrance to Diagon Alley, past the Leaky Cauldron and all the way to Platform 9 3/4. There's other tours if you're not into Harry Potter!
Discover the lesser-known side of London's history with Herstorical Tours, a guided theatrical walking tour that focuses on women throughout the centuries. This team has been created and led by women only, who bring the story to life through acting, comedy and fun surprises.
You can learn about everything from the dark side of the eighteenth century sex industry to witchcraft, mystics and rebels. These sessions last one or two hours, starting from only £15 per person.
Ale Hunters is a unique walking tour and beer experience taking place across London's best pubs, craft breweries and taprooms. Get the low-down on the creation process while picking up expert knowledge and maybe even sampling a few sips along the way.
Ready to groove? From West End Musicals to Drag, Silent Disco Walking Tours has got all the themed-events you could want. Sing, dance and celebrate to your heart's content at The West End Musical Tour or unleash your inner diva on the Drag Queen Disco Diva Tour featuring hits from Spice Girls, Madonna, Kylie, Lady Gaga, and more.
Grab your smartest friends and head to one of six prime London locations for an outdoor adventure that's both a race and a historic walking tour.
With tickets starting at just £27.50 for a team of up to four, it's one of the most affordable ways to experience the city's energy. It's lighthearted, highly entertaining, and the perfect way to bond while getting your steps in.
@ Farringdon Tube entrance on Friday 16th October 2026 and 2 other dates
Step into the darker side of London's past with Herstorical Tours' Hex and the City Halloween Tour. Run by a female-led team, this immersive experience combines a guided walk around the capital with captivating historical insights - with fancy dress encouraged.
Along the route, your entertaining guide will tell tales of witchcraft trials and persecution, focusing on forgotten women who were accused of being witches. Using a mix of storytelling and performance, they'll introduce you to medieval healers, pagan priestesses, Elizabethan devil-worshippers and a host of other intriguing characters from history.
@ St Pauls Underground on Various dates from Sunday 27th September 2026
Explore London's pub scene with an in tow with the Historic London Pub Tour. As an accredited beer sommelier with years of touring experience, your guide will be talking you through the history and nefarious tales of these long-standing establishments – some of which have been trading for over 400 years.
From 16th century haunts with open fires to a former medieval Dominican friary, you'll be taken around four classic pubs in an intimate group of just 10 people, giving you ample opportunity to ask questions and make the most of your time with this pub pro. And don't forget to grab a beer along the way...
@ Outside Barbican tube station on Various dates from Wednesday 30th September 2026
Take a walk on the wicked side with Bloody London author Declan McHugh. As you make your way through the city streets, you'll follow in the footsteps of Jack the Ripper and many more macabre murderers.
Expect spooky locations, chills, thrills and plenty of gallows humour along the way. Your ticket to this terrifying tour is just £16.50.
@ Control Room B on Various dates from Sunday 27th September 2026
Ever fancied learning more about the history of Battersea Power Station? Then head to Control Room B, where you can enjoy a self-guided audio tour of the space that once delivered power to London day and night, with headphones provided to share all the information.
You'll explore the original control desks, switchgear and synchroscopes, while enjoying a delicious welcome cocktail. Tickets start from just £12 each, with the chance to add on a glass of Champagne too.
From an Easter-themed hunt to a summer special and the winter wind down, the Bucket Race is bringing you a fun group activity come rain or shine. With teams of up to 4 competing to complete various tasks around London, this is one if you're looking for something a bit different.
CityDays' interactive treasure hunts are the perfect way to explore your local area. Clues and trails are sent to your phone, so all you need to do is strap on a pair of comfy shoes and get adventuring.
Hop on board and let London dazzle you. For just £17, you can join a unique London Tours experience that turns sightseeing into an adventure.
Whether you're into comedy-horror ghost stories or twinkling holiday lights, these themed tours promise a memorable journey through the city's iconic spots. And you'll be doing it all aboard a beautifully restored 1960s Routemaster - talk about a classic.
When it comes to all things cheeky in the city, we're on the pulse. From secret kinky spots to historic tales like you've never heard before, we've come up with our very own x-rated tour of London, one sexy detail at a time.
