Eating London: The Heart of 'The City' Food Tour
Active
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
Welcome to the only food tour in the City of London (really!).
Down river from the palaces of Westminster, you’ll find the much older City of London, which dates back to Roman times and has been the epicenter of British and European life ever since.
Taste your way through the classic London dining destinations that fed the commercial, political and literary ambitions of a growing city – the oyster house, the chophouse, the chocolate house, the tavern & beyond – taking it from the middleweight capital of a small island nation to a world-famous global metropolis.
The story of the City of London is an entire novel written in wood, fire, stone, steel, glass, merchants & magic. Read it cover to cover on this completely one-of-a-kind culinary adventure through 2000 years, serving up the good, bad and bizarre tidbits of history, all framed by fantastic food. It’s the perfect London tour for first timers and long timers alike.
Available options
Eating London: The Heart of 'The City' Food Tour
What's included
Local English-speaking guide
Feel the magic as you walk in the footsteps of William Shakespeare, Roman soldiers and Harry Potter
‘Food & the City’ Insider Tips
Dine in the favourite tavern of London’s most famous author and see his extensive bar bill
Unravel the controversial history of the City’s sugar and spice trade.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
This iconic monument pays homage to Smith's legendary voyages and contributions to exploration.
2
Stop 2
Historic pub on one of Britain’s oldest roads that housed the builders of St Paul's Cathedral
3
Stop 3
London’s oldest fish restaurant (dates back to the 1800s) and an absolute City institution. But it’s not just history - was a favorite of the late Anthony Bourdain, Fergus Henderson of St John and Jamie Oliver
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Discover the differences between the city of London and the City of London and what marks a real Londoner as you marvel at magnificent medieval buildings, historic markets and Roman ruins.
5
Buns From Home is a pandemic lockdown success story, now housed at the iconic Royal Exchange (and its legacies of the London spice & sugar trade)
6
Stop 6
A 19th century bank, this now hotel, bar and restaurant imposes its beautiful and luxurious look with its high ceilings and the real life ‘safe’ behind the bar. It almost feels like you’re stepping into Gringotts.
7
Stop 7
Hidden down a back alley, this is the oldest chophouse in London with a history dating back to the 1700s. A favourite of Charles Dickens - it’s where Scrooge has his supper in A Christmas Carol (and they still have the bill from a party Dickens had here)
8
Stop 8
Pass by
Walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter and see one of the filming locations from the first film.
What's not included
Gratuities / Tips for guides
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Extra drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
12 reviews
5★
11
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
194 reviews
5★
192
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This activity requires a minimum of 2 guests. Should this not be met, we will contact you directly to help you get rescheduled or reimbursed.
Children under 4 years old do not need a ticket and can join the tour for free. However, food is not included. Paid tickets with food included are available for ages 4 and up.
Please note that the tastings mentioned are a selection of the delicious foods we often feature. Both offerings and tour stops may vary by day or season, but you're sure to enjoy a delightful array of local flavors!
Have dietary requirements? Simply email us or add a note at booking, and we’ll do our best to accommodate vegetarians, gluten-free guests or other dietary needs where we can. For guest safety, this experience isn’t suitable for those with severe or life-threatening food allergies to ingredients found on the tour, and the company cannot take responsibility for any food allergies or intolerances.
Meeting point
The meeting point is outside St-Mary-Le-Bow church - nearest tube station is St Paul’s in front of the Statue of Cpt. Jhon Smith. Look for the guide with Eating Europe logo.
Important notes
Please aim to arrive 15 minutes early, so the tour can start on time.
You do not need to print out a page to join the tour - showing us the confirmation email you will receive on your phone is fine!
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
