The Cabby Historian

London History Taxi Tours

Our Guides

 We are a team of local London Black Cab Drivers who work as Tour Guides as well as London Taxis. We love London so much, that after completing the Knowledge of London (the 3-5 year long Black Taxi course) we became qualified tour guides.

Likewise, we are united in our passion of history. Each of us have our own connection to the city, and after qualifying as Cabbie Guides, we’ve undergone extensive research and learning: Billy has gone complete a degree in history with honours, Tony, a Westminster walking tour course, and our other guides are all studying independently of the vast history of London and Britain.

The United Kingdom, Great Britain and England all have history spanning over 2,000 years (that’s recorded). Our guides passionately share our knowledge with our guests on our tours. The tours are scripted, they are conducted naturally, enthusiastically and backed by extensive research. But of course, our guides are for everyone: ranging from history grads to casual sightseers… we’ve got tours that suit everyone.

Our Black Cab Tours are the perfect way to see London. We often get asked what are “ things to do in London “ or “things to see in London “, and truly, the best way of seeing London is with a private tour with:

  • A guide from London

  • With a comfortable, convenient and authentic vehicle

  • That knows the city best – both its history and for everyday advice

  • Someone friendly and can accommodate your specific requirements

 Whilst we are working on walking tours of London, our tours include both driving around London to cover the sights over spread out areas of the city, the tours also involve getting out and up close to the sights (though of course this isn’t mandatory for those who prefer to stay inside the taxi).

Also, when booking with us at London History Taxi Tours, we offer our mobile concierge service. Whether booking a tour or just an airport transfer, you get access to some advice from lead guide and director, Billy. Advice provided on matters such as restaurant and pub recommendations, travel plans or even just a nice spot to go for a walk… it is just something we like to do provide as a thank you for booking with us at London History Taxi Tours.

Ultimately, our aim to provide an entertaining, informative private sightseeing tour of London. Our London Black Cab Tours can be personalised to suit your needs, our team is always ready to accommodate your needs, and we aim to deliver a very high standard of service before, during and after the tours.

Our London History Taxi Tours

 Learn London – Love London – Live London

 In other words, experience London and see why people adore it, and as a result, live the London experience.

Did you know?

  • Historical Roots: The Knowledge has been a requirement since 1865. Its origins date back to a time when horse-drawn carriages were the norm, and drivers needed to be well-acquainted with London’s streets and landmarks.

  • Rigorous Preparation: On average, it takes about three to four years for a candidate to prepare for and pass The Knowledge.

  • Extensive Coverage: The Knowledge requires memorising over 25,000 streets and over 100,000 landmarks. Drivers need to know the significance and location of each landmark to answer questions effectively. Cabbies know the fastest and shortest route without any use of GPS or navigation equipment.

  • Cultural Significance: The Knowledge is considered a significant part of London’s cultural heritage. It’s often cited as a reason why London black cab drivers are so highly regarded for their expertise and customer service.

  • Lateral Thinking: Candidates must be able to demonstrate “lateral thinking” by suggesting alternative routes between two points if the most direct route is not viable. This skill ensures that drivers can navigate around roadworks, traffic jams, or other obstacles efficiently.

Jeff and Family Said

Absolutely the most incredible tour guide we have ever had. Knowledgeable, fun, respectful, considerate and went above and beyond for us. Would use him and recommend him to anyone. Thanks, Billy, for making our time in London fantastic!! He even took amazing photos!

About Our Cabs

The Iconic Black Cab

Our tour guides conduct the tours whilst driving the iconic London Black Cabs. These include the Electric Black Cab, the Mercedes Vito and the TX4. The tours typically involve stops at numerous occasions to get out and see the history up close, however we accommodate guests with mobility issues too. If you require a specific type of taxi, please let us know before booking.

Always
Clean

Our vehicles are all equipped with partitions and thoroughly sanitised for your safety, and designed to ensure maximum comfort throughout your tour. Each vehicle is tailored to enhance your experience, providing a clean and cosy environment for a memorable journey. If you have any special requirements or preferences, please inform us before your tour.

Wheelchair Accessible

All of our cabs are fully wheelchair accessible and can comfortably accommodate 5–6 passengers per vehicle. Whether you have mobility needs or are travelling with a group, our cabs are equipped to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride for everyone.

Our Tours

London, Londinium, Ludenwic or Londres… these are many names over the last two thousand years the city has taken; ruled by Romans, Saxons, Normans and much more. The tour focuses on a wide range of history that London has to offer, both the visible and the hidden. Our tours focus on visiting the iconic landmarks and narrating the amazing stories of what has happened in, what built and what changed London.

Our guides are all fully certified and continue to train and study the vast history of London, we have a passion to share this with you.

Visit, learn and love London.

We pride ourselves on our service and expertise, and we believe that we won’t be beaten on value! Entertaining tours conducted by experienced guides and historians offering a personal, professional and excellent experience. London Black Cab Tours by passionate local tour guides.

Our tours show the best of London tour spots, answering “which London pass is best” and “how to see London in a day”. The tours cover a lot of ground, and with every step of the way complemented with entertaining narration by your guide backed by years of research and experience.

Our London Sightseeing Black Cab Tours are backed by years of research, development and experience to ensure the highest level of service!

If you are staying in London for a short while, it is often best to do the tour within the first couple of days, therefore getting the most of your experience then and after. Our director personally will offer his expertise and offer free travel advice for what to do in London before and after the tour.

If, on the other hand, you are in London for one day, our tours are the perfect way to tick London off!

Black Cab Tours of London by London Black Cab Drivers qualified as tour guides. What better sightseeing tour than a London Black Cab Tour with a local who knows London best.

Award Winning Bespoke Black Taxi Tours narrated in the London Taxis and up close to the sights.

The Best Way To See London!