Benjamin Franklin's London Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Follow the incredible London life of United States Founding Father Benjamin Franklin.
Franklin lived in London for nearly 20 years, and this fun, history based tour takes you on a journey through the streets he knew well.
His first extended stay as a young batchelor helped shape and form the man he would become. He later returned for 16 years as a Diplomat representing Colonial interests. During this period he made the change from viewing himself an Englishman and supporter of the King, to an ardent supporter of the American Revolution, and signatory to the Declaration of Independence.
This private and personalised tour allows you to follow in his footsteps across the oldest parts of the City of London, discovering many famous landmarks as well as some hidden Gems, including the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin in the world.
Available options
Benjamin Franklin's London Tour
What's included
Private Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Follow in the footsteps of young Benjamin Franklin on his first trip to London, and the historic Printing neighborhood where he took up residence and began his working life in London.
2
Stop 2
Historic Home of the press in London. And nearby in one of London's oldest Pubs we find a location where the "Hell Fire Club" met. Benjamin Franklin was reportedly a member of this notorious club.
3
Stop 3
St Paul's is one of London's most iconic landmarks, and the location where Benjamin Franklin installed lightning conductor rods. Here you will learn about Franklin's scientific endeavors in London.
4
This fascinating area is a hidden world within the City of London, out of sight of the average tourist. Home of the legal profession with Templar and Masonic links. Let's delve in to some of Franklin's links to this special hidden gem in the city.
5
Stop 5
As a Diplomat representing American Colonial Interests, Franklin was present at some of the key political arguments and debates in Westminster. Here we will discuss the key moments that led to Franklin Leaving London and signing the Declaration of Independence.
6
Situated on Craven Street, This is the very house Benjamin Franklin lived in for 16 years in London. It is also the only home of his that remains anywhere in the world, and can claim to be the first US Embassy!
Also on this street lived two other key figures in US history (but we won't spoil the surprise here)
Please note: Benjamin Franklin House is open Friday/Saturday/Sunday only. So if you want to visit the house please ensure you book the Friday tour option.
(Tours on Mon, Tues, Weds, Thursday Finish at the House, but don't visit inside, and are therefore slightly reduced in cost.)
What's not included
Tube/Bus Fares if we use Public Transport (Optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is primarily a walking tour, but public transport can be used to cut distance if needed
Meeting point
Meet outside the entrance/exit of St Paul's Underground Station.
About London
London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and dynamic cultural scene. From the ancient Tower of London to the modern Shard, the city offers a blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
Tower of London
A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. It has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and treasury. The Crown Jewels are also housed here.
Historical
2-3 hours
£28 (adult ticket)
Buckingham Palace
The official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms during the summer.
Historical
1-2 hours
£27.50 (adult ticket for State Rooms)
The British Museum
One of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free (special exhibitions may have a charge)
The London Eye
A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city.
Entertainment
30 minutes
£27-£33 (adult ticket)
Westminster Abbey
A large, mainly Gothic abbey church just to the west of the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the most notable religious buildings in the UK and the traditional place of coronation and burial for English and, later, British monarchs.
Religious
1-2 hours
£27 (adult ticket)
Tower Bridge
An iconic symbol of London, this combined bascule and suspension bridge spans the River Thames. Visitors can explore the bridge's walkways and the Tower Bridge Exhibition.
Architecture
1-2 hours
£11 (adult ticket for the exhibition)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish and Chips
A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries).
Dinner
Contains gluten and fish
Full English Breakfast
A hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.
Breakfast
Contains meat and gluten
Afternoon Tea
A quintessential British tradition involving a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries, all served with tea.
Snack
Can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets
Sunday Roast
A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.
Dinner
Contains meat and gluten
Popular Activities
Rock climbing
Kayaking on the Thames
Cycling tours
Afternoon tea
Spas and wellness centers
Punting on the River Cam
Museum visits
Theater performances
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in London, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and events. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be unpredictable.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
London is generally safe for travelers, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Heathrow Airport • 23 km from city center
- Gatwick Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
London Waterloo, London King's Cross
By bus
Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, Farringdon
Getting around
Public transport
The Tube is the fastest and most efficient way to get around London. It operates from early morning until late at night and covers all major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Westminster
Camden Town
Soho
Notting Hill
Shoreditch
Greenwich
Day trips
Windsor Castle
34 km from London • Half day to full day
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's one of the official residences of the British monarch.
Stonehenge
130 km from London • Full day
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, located in the English county of Wiltshire.
Brighton
80 km from London • Full day
Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, lively atmosphere, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Festivals
Notting Hill Carnival • Last Sunday and Monday of August
London Film Festival • October
New Year's Eve Fireworks • December 31
Pro tips
- Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for cheaper and more convenient public transportation
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions to skip the queue and save money
- Explore the city's neighborhoods and markets for a unique and authentic experience
- Try the local street food and international cuisine at markets like Borough Market and Camden Market
- Visit the city's parks and gardens for a peaceful escape from the bustling streets
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
