London , United Kingdom

London Canals Private Walking Tour

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(4 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Before cars and even trains, London was a canal city like many in Britain were.

Then as now, one of the best things about canals is that it takes you away from the noise and chaos of the busy streets and opens up areas that you couldn’t reach otherwise. In fact you’d never even know you were in the middle of London.

Canals are enjoying a huge resurgence for social and leisure activities and we will see plenty of boats, some even converted into book shops, cafes or even a barbers. Some are used as homes, moored up on the towpath whilst others chug merrily along going about their slow and peaceful business.

This private 3 hour walking tour will reveal a side to London that most never get to see. Away from the hustle and bustle of the busy street, this walk combines area of almost rural beauty and tranquility, modern cafe culture and incredible areas of urban renewal in a way only London can do.

Available options

London Canals Private Walking Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private and professional guided tour

Detailed itinerary

These were but to almost be like the western docks of London. Now redeveloped for business and leisure with possibly the only folding bridge in the world. We start along the famous Grand Union Canal.

Stop 2

Little Venice is truly serene and beautiful and is where we will leave the Grand Union Canal and head off on Regents Canal.

Regents Canal, built to connect the River Thames and the docks tot he canal network that linked London to the great cities of the north.

Stop 4

We walk right past the aviary and you never know when you might catch a glimpse of a giraffe or camel!

Stop 5

Camden Lock is one of few parts of the walk where it is remotely busy. Once an industrial area, now it is buzzing with cafes and restaurants

Stop 6

The Stables Market, now a funky shopping destination but originally it housed the horses who worked the canals before the invention of boat engines.

Stop 7

From the canal side we will see MTV Studios and those relating to Viacom and others. Everyone loves the views and life around the canal.

Stop 8

The canal passes through leafy Regents Park and some of the finest private homes in this part of London.

Stop 9

This 'little' park is built into an old giant gas holder. It is a good mix of the old and new that typifies this part of the canal.

Another old industrial area that had found new life as one Londons newest and largest squares or plazas.

Right next to the canal, this district used to be where the coal was stored for the nearby train stations. In the last year or so it has had millions spent on it to re-open as a hidden but high-end shopping destination.

Stop 12

My favourite of all the barges on the canal. A boat that is also a really rather good bookshop.

Kings Place is a hub for music, art, dialogue and food in London's Kings Cross

Stop 14

A museum dedicated to London and British canals and all housed in a Victorian Ice storage facility that was used to bring in ice from Norway.

What's not included

Transport ticket to and from your hotel.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

The tour starts from just outside Edgware Road Station on the Chapel Street entrance/exit

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