London: Private Black Cab Tour with Hidden Tunnels

Summary

See London’s famous sights and explore secret tunnels below

You’ll ride in a classic black cab with a local guide, explore hidden tunnels beneath the Thames, climb to panoramic views atop historic monuments, and cross above London by cable car if you choose. With hotel pickup included and stories that linger long after you leave, this is a day trip across London you’ll remember long after it ends.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the edge of the black cab seat, I watched as our driver — Dave, who’d been driving these streets for decades — waved at a cyclist weaving past. He had that Londoner’s way of making you feel like you belonged, even if you’re gawking out the window at Big Ben like it’s your first time (which, okay, it was). The city was buzzing outside but inside the cab it felt oddly calm, almost like we were floating through a storybook version of London.

I didn’t expect to be ducking into old brick tunnels under the Thames so soon. There was this earthy dampness in the air — not unpleasant, just ancient. Dave flicked his torch along the walls and told us about Victorian engineers and wartime secrets. At one point he paused in front of a heavy door and said quietly, “This bit’s seen more history than most museums.” I tried to imagine all the feet that had hurried through here. My shoes squeaked on the stone floor; I still remember that echo.

Back above ground, sunlight felt sharper somehow. We climbed what felt like endless steps inside the Monument (311 — I counted because my legs were burning), and when we reached the top, there was this hush before anyone spoke. St Paul’s dome glinted in the distance. Some kids were laughing nearby; their voices carried up on the wind. Dave handed me a certificate for making it up there — I laughed because my handwriting looked wobbly from all those stairs.

The last bit was crossing over the Thames by cable car — not something I’d ever thought I’d do in London. The river slid by underneath, grey and wide, with boats leaving white trails behind them. It was quiet up there except for someone’s phone buzzing once or twice. When we landed back in central London, I realized how much of the city we’d seen from angles most people never get to try.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — London Sights Above and Below

• Ride in classic London black taxi
• Explore underground tunnels and crypt
• Climb the Monument to the Great Fire of London
• View Westminster skyline and optional Thames Cable Car

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this private black cab tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for central London hotels.

Are the underground tunnels beneath the Thames open to everyone?

You’ll visit select tunnels as part of this guided tour with your driver-guide.

How many steps are there inside the Monument to climb?

The Monument has 311 steps to reach its viewing platform.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

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

Does this day trip include entry fees or tickets?

Your experience includes entry where needed; some optional extras like cable car may have an extra charge.

Will there be a local guide during the whole experience?

Your private driver also serves as your knowledgeable local guide throughout.

How long does this private taxi tour last?

The full experience lasts approximately four hours door-to-door.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in a classic black taxi with your own local guide-driver at the wheel. You’ll explore both above-ground landmarks and underground tunnels beneath London’s River Thames, with all transport provided — plus an option to cross by cable car before returning to central London at the end.