Unlock London: 10 Alternative Tours for the Curious Traveler

While London is known for its iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, the city also offers some extraordinary, lesser-known experiences. These unconventional tours on Around Travel provide a fresh way to explore London’s rich history, diverse culture, and artistic flair. Here are ten must-try tours that take you off the beaten path.

Explore the hidden alleys and centuries-old pubs along Fleet Street, once home to London’s newspaper industry. Some of the iconic pubs in this stretch are - The Old Bell, which is a 300-year-old tavern; Ye Old Cheshire Cheese, which used to be a local favorite of Charles Dickens himself; and the 16th century hidden gem, Ye Olde Mitre.

So book an audio tour with Around Travel and take yourself out on a unique pub crawl along Fleet Street to soak in the tales of these legendary drinking establishments.  

Greenwich is a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with history. This tour takes you through the birthplace of maritime history, with stops at the Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, and the Prime Meridian. It's a journey through time that connects the past with London's naval glory. Don't miss the chance to explore the stunning Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College.

A tailormade tour for history buffs - book an audio tour today with Around Travel to take a journey through the ages. 

Camden Town has long been the heartbeat of London’s music scene, and this tour showcases its rock 'n' roll heritage, especially its pivotal role in the rise of punk rock in the 1970s. From Amy Winehouse’s favorite haunts to iconic venues like the Roundhouse, you’ll discover the stories of the bands The Clash and The Sex Pistols that emerged in Camden and shaped British music history. 

If you’re a fan of punk, alternative, or indie, book an audio tour of Camden’s streets with Around Travel for a walk through a musical hall of fame.

For lovers of detective fiction, a Sherlock Holmes tour offers an immersive journey into the world of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famed detective. Walk through Baker Street and visit 221B, explore Holmes-inspired sites, visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum, and hear stories of how Sherlock’s adventures have been brought to life in films and TV shows. 

A must-do for fans of mystery and intrigue, as well as fans of the BBC hit series Sherlock - start planning now on Around Travel

A hub of entertainment, Covent Garden offers a lively mix of history, art, and street performance. This tour showcases the area's rich theatrical history, from the famous Royal Opera House to its bustling market square. Along the way, you’ll see street performers, artisan stalls, and hidden alleyways that tell tales of London’s vibrant past. You can explore the Seven Dials, a trendy confluence of streets; the Infinity Chamber, the latest Insta-worthy attraction, as well as Covent Garden’s hidden gem, Neal’s Yard. 

Start planning your London itinerary by booking your Covent Garden tour with Around Travel

Step back into the dark streets of Victorian London with a chilling Jack the Ripper tour. This eerie experience takes you through the East End, tracing the steps of the notorious serial killer. You’ll visit the locations of the gruesome murders while listening to theories about the Ripper’s true identity. The tour is as much a history lesson as it is a spine-tingling thrill.

If you want an eerie, after-dark experience, the Jack the Ripper audio tour on Around Travel will give you a true taste of the spooky. Book now. 

Although the British Museum and the Natural History Museum are more popular among tourists, the Victoria and Albert Museum is mostly known for its eclectic collection of art and design. From Renaissance sculptures to contemporary fashion, the V&A is a treasure trove for art lovers. 

Explore the highlights of the museum on a guided tour with Around Travel and discover the stories behind its most famous pieces.

The Tate Modern, housed in a former power station on the banks of the Thames, is one of the world’s leading contemporary art galleries. A guided tour will introduce you to the cutting-edge exhibitions, iconic works by artists like Picasso and Warhol, and the impressive architecture of the building itself. It’s an art experience like no other.

Book an audio tour with Around Travel to experience the gallery space as well as the iconic pieces of art themselves, especially its most famous permanent display, "In the Studio." 

The Temple district is one of London’s legal heartlands, known for its medieval architecture and ties to the Knights Templar. This tour will lead you through ancient courtyards, historic inns of court, and majestic legal buildings. It’s a fascinating glimpse into London’s legal history and a side of the city often overlooked by tourists.

Book an audio tour of the Temple District with Around Travel and explore the stunning Temple Church, the beautiful Inner and Middle Temple gardens, the iconic Royal Courts of Justice, and the striking Temple Bar monument.

If you’ve ever wondered how the British aristocracy lived, this tour of St. James is for you. Walk through one of London’s most exclusive areas, filled with stately homes, gentlemen’s clubs, and royal connections. Visit places like St. James’s Palace, Clarence House, and the high-end shops along Jermyn Street, where royalty and the elite have shopped for centuries.

Start planning your London itinerary today and book an audio tour of this historical London neighborhood with Around Travel

Conclusion

London is a city that continually reveals new layers of history, culture, and mystery. These lesser-known parts of the city offer a unique perspective on the capital, allowing visitors to explore its hidden gems and untold stories. Whether you’re interested in art, music, history, architecture, or simply a great pint, there’s a tour waiting for you to discover on Around Travel.

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