FAQs
Here are some helpful things to know if you’re coming to London.
How do I get to central London from the airport or other parts of the UK?
However you’re travelling in to central London, you’ll find the TFL journey planner a great help.
Where should I stay?
London has no shortage of hotels at a range of prices. Visit our London Theatres page, click on a theatre and you’ll find recommendations for the nearest hotels with good reviews.
How can I find my way around Theatreland?
Our guided tours are a great way to start finding your way around, taking in the best theatres and most interesting streets. There’s no better way to discover the West End than with a personal, experienced guide. We’ve also included maps showing each venue – just visit our London Theatres page and choose a theatre to get started.
Where can I enjoy proper fish & chips?
The Rock & Soul Plaice in Endell St, Covent Garden cooks probably the best traditional fish & chips in London. Interestingly the delicious tradition of eating fried fish & chips actually arrived with London’s European Jewish immigrant community and now it’s as British as stiff upper lips and cream teas!
Where do your tours meet?
All tours begin from outside the TKTS booth inside Leicester Square. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour begins as we always start on time. Most tours also conclude at the TKTS booth, except our Act Four: Shakespeare’s London walking tour which concludes at London Bridge tube station (return to Embankment station by Thames Clippers river boat).
Are there any rest-rooms or breaks on your tours?
We’re not able to accommodate extra stops. However, there are rest-rooms in Leicester Square where tours begin and end. On our longest tour, Act Four: Shakespeare’s London we do make one scheduled stop where rest-room facilities are available.
What do we need to bring?
Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Please bring a bottle of water as we are not able to accommodate extra stops during tours. There’s a live weather link on our News! page.
Will we get to meet The Queen?
We try our very best, but so far we haven’t persuaded Her Majesty to appear on one of our tours. Buckingham Palace flies a special flag called the Royal Standard whenever Queen Elizabeth II is in residence. We’ll definitely keep trying!
What if we’re less mobile?
Most West End streets are flat or gently sloping and most of our guided tours are suitable for those with limited mobility. Our Act Four: Shakespeare’s London walking tour does involve several flights of stairs so is regrettably not suitable for those using a wheelchair or those who find walking difficult, although we can offer an adapted route by prior arrangement – please contact us before booking if you would like to arrange this.
Are tours suitable for all ages?
We welcome all ages although our tours are most suited to adults and older children (we recommend ages 12+). Children under 5 do not require a ticket, however very young children may find walking tours a challenge, so please consider this before booking.
Do we go inside the theatres on the tours?
Our guided tours are all outdoors. Many venues are in use throughout the day so we design our tours around the beautiful exteriors of our city’s historic theatres. We visit stage doors, fascinating streets and reveal the many secrets of Theatreland and there are always plenty of great photo opportunities!
How long are tours?
Most tours last around 2 hours and cover approximately 2.2 miles. Our longest tour is Act Four: Shakespeare’s London which lasts approximately 3 hours and covers 4 miles including several riverside walks, returning by riverboat.
Is London a safe city to walk around?
Yes – London is generally a very safe city. Visit London has some great tips to ensure you stay safe on your visit.
Can we bring a group?
Yes! We offer a special rate for groups of 6 or more people. Please visit our groups booking page for more information.
What if we need to cancel?
Tours are non-refundable and go ahead come rain or shine, however if for any reason we had to cancel a tour (we haven’t yet!) we would offer you a full refund.
Do we tip in London?
Tipping around 10% is common in London’s hotels, restaurants and taxis. While we graciously accept gratuities, our guides never expect them and if you enjoy our tours we’d much prefer you to leave us a positive review online!