London: Private Black Cab Tour of Landmarks & Hidden Stories

Summary

See Big Ben, Tower of London, Westminster & more from a black cab with a true Londoner guiding you

You’ll ride in a classic black cab with a born-and-bred Londoner who knows every shortcut and story behind landmarks like Big Ben, Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Expect spontaneous stops for coffee or photos, plenty of local color, and moments you won’t find in any guidebook.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect Simon to know every shortcut in London — or for the city to feel so different from the backseat of a black cab. The first thing I noticed was how he weaved through traffic like he’d been doing it since birth (he probably has). We rolled past the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben just as the bells chimed eleven. The sound echoed off the stone, and Simon grinned, “That’s your official welcome.” He pointed out tiny details on Westminster Abbey’s façade that I’d never have seen from the street. My coffee was still warm in my hands — he’d insisted we stop at his favorite spot before starting. Honestly, best flat white I’ve had in ages.

The private black cab tour felt nothing like those big bus tours. It was just us — me peppering Simon with questions about London Eye (he told me it’s not as old as it looks), or why St. Paul’s Cathedral always seems to catch the light differently depending on where you stand. At one point near the Tower of London, he told this story about ravens and executions that made me shiver a bit. There’s something about hearing 1,000 years of history while you’re literally driving over cobblestones that have seen it all. He even managed to get us close enough for photos without feeling rushed or watched.

We caught part of the Changing of the Guard by pure luck — or maybe Simon just knows when to time these things (he winked but wouldn’t say). The guards’ boots scraped against the pavement; there was this faint smell of wet grass from the park nearby, and a little kid waved at us through the window. I’m not usually into royal stuff, but it felt oddly moving in person. By then I’d stopped checking my phone for directions; Simon had everything handled. He even had bottled water ready when I started coughing from laughing too much at one of his taxi stories.

I guess what stuck with me most wasn’t any single landmark but how personal it all felt — like seeing London through someone else’s eyes for a few hours. If you want to see all those famous places but also hear which alley has the best curry or where Dickens used to walk his dog (apparently true?), this is probably your tour. I still think about that view across the Thames at St. Paul’s — gray sky, bit of drizzle on the window, but somehow perfect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tour London's iconic landmarks by cab

• See the Royal Palace of London
• Visit the Tower of London
• Pass by St. Paul's Cathedral
• Drive past Westminster Abbey
• See the London Eye from the cab
• View Big Ben and Houses of Parliament

Top questions

How long does the private black cab tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but you’ll cover major sites like Big Ben, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and more at your own pace.

Is hotel pickup included on this London taxi tour?

The tour includes pickup—just let Simon know your location when booking.

Are children or infants allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Is this black cab tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes—all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; transportation options are also accessible.

What landmarks will we see during this private taxi tour?

You’ll visit Houses of Parliament & Big Ben, Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey (from outside), Changing of the Guard, and pass by the London Eye.

Does this private taxi tour include entry fees to attractions?

No entry fees are included; you’ll see most landmarks from outside or as you drive past.

Will there be stops for photos during the taxi tour?

Yes—Simon will stop for photos at key spots along the route if you ask.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in a classic black cab with an experienced local driver-guide at the wheel; air conditioning for comfort; bottled water along the way; flexibility for photo stops; and accessibility features for wheelchairs or strollers throughout central London’s iconic sights.