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Americans in London: Private Heritage Tour in a London Taxi
London, United Kingdom
4 hours
Art & Culture
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Family Friendly
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Walking Tours
Date
Today
What You Will Do
Discover London through a unique lens on this private half-day tour in an iconic London Taxi, delving into the rich American history embedded within the city’s sites. From the former residence of Benjamin Franklin to the American Embassy in Battersea, this tour offers an immersive experience that connects you with the pivotal moments and personalities that bridge London and America.
On your private tour, you will:
- Pass by Benjamin Franklin's House and marvel at the only surviving residence of one of America's Founding Fathers, where Franklin lived and worked, shaping history;
- Admire St. Paul's Cathedral, this iconic landmark hosted the memorial service for U.S. President John F. Kennedy, symbolising the enduring bond between the UK and the USA;
- Hear about St. Mary Aldermanbury Church's history and it's connection with Missouri, USA, to honour Winston Churchill's "Iron Curtain" speech, symbolising the transatlantic alliance;
- Drive along All Hallows by the Tower and hear about the important figures that are linked to this ancient church;
- Enjoy captivating stories about William Penn and Samuel Pepys from your knowledgable guide;
- Visit Trinity Square and learn about the history of the atlantic convoys during WW2 and the tragic losses;
- Discover the Mayflower Pub and delve into its connection with the departure point of the Mayflower Ship, which carried the Pilgrims to America in 1620;
- Pass by the American Embassy a symbol of the bond between the USA and the UK serving as the diplomatic bridge for American interests in the UK;
- See Norfolk House, the historic building which served as the headquarters for General Dwight D. Eisenhower, where D-Day was planned.
Begin your adventure as you depart in a quintessential London Taxi. Your knowledgeable driver-guide will escort you past Benjamin Franklin House, the only surviving residence of the renowned American polymath. Learn about Franklin's profound impact during his stay in London and his enduring legacy.
Next, marvel at the grandeur of St. Paul’s Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that hosted the memorial service for President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The cathedral stands as a testament to the history and mutual respect between the United States and the United Kingdom.
Continue your journey to the St. Mary Aldermanbury Church, famously reconstructed in Fulton, Missouri, after Winston Churchill’s iconic Cold War speech. A stop at All Hallows by the Tower follows, where you will uncover the fascinating history of the marriage of John Quincy Adams, the sixth President of the United States. The church, with its deep-rooted connections to American history, offers a captivating glimpse into the past.
As you navigate through the bustling streets, hear the intriguing tales of William Penn and Samuel Pepys, two significant figures whose stories are interwoven with London's history. Pause at Trinity Square, once home to the Navy Board and the administration of the Royal Navy. Learn about the harrowing history of the Atlantic convoys during World War II and the tragic losses, as well as the role of Trinity House in managing lighthouses and the Liberty of the Tower.
En route to the historic Mayflower Pub, enjoy views of the iconic Tower Bridge. Your guide will share the compelling story of the Pilgrim Fathers, a group of Christians who, in 1620, embarked on the Mayflower seeking religious freedom in the New World. This inspiring tale of courage and determination is a cornerstone in American heritage.
Your tour continues with an external visit to the American Embassy in Battersea, a symbol of the enduring diplomatic relationship between the two nations. Next, travel to 23 Tedworth Square, the former residence of famed author Mark Twain and his wife Olivia. Your guide will recount tales of Twain’s time in London, offering a unique perspective on the beloved American writer’s life and works.
A stop at St. James's Square follows, where you’ll discover Norfolk House, the headquarters for Operation Overlord, the D-Day landings. Norfolk is home to the world’s largest naval base and the North American headquarters for NATO, underscoring the military and strategic connections between the nations.
As your tour comes to an end, you’ll be returned to your hotel, enriched with the stories and historical ties linking London and America. This exclusive tour offers a unique and comprehensive exploration of the American influence on London, providing a memorable and enlightening experience.
What's Included?
- A friendly, professional English-speaking tour guide for your own private group
- Private Transportation throughout the day in a TXE, TX4 or Mercedes Vito London Taxi
- Hotel pick up and drop off from your centrally located hotel in London
What's Not Included?
- Food and drink
- Gratuities
- Airport pickup & drop off
- Admission tickets
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 4 days before tour start. Non refundable if cancelled within 4 days of tour start.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
Hotel pick-up is available upon request from Central London within a 5km radius from Embankment Place. If we do not receive your hotel information or if the hotel is outside of the pick-up radius, your guide will meet you at the Taxi Rank in Embankment Place, outside Embankment Tube Station (at the Villiers Street entrance and not the Embankment entrance).
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Benjamin Franklin House
Here in his last residence, Benjamin Franklin was infiltrated by British agents in the 1790's and had his secrets from his time in France was passed to the British secret services.
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Additional Information
This activity is operated by Travel Curious
- Weather notes: Force Majeure Disclaimer: In the event of unforeseen circumstances such as extreme weather, natural disasters, riots, strikes, etc. and the tour cannot operate as published, we will endeavour to reschedule your tour date/time or we will provide a full refund.
- Know before you go: - Hotel pick-up is available upon request. Please note that if you do not provide us with your hotel information your guide will meet you at the recommended meeting point (address in the tour confirmation email). - Our taxi fleet embodies London's iconic Hackney carriages, renowned for their classic design and comfort, and models like the Mercedes Vito, expanding our offerings. Traditionally black, these taxis sport a boxy shape for easy access and are marked by a rooftop sign indicating availability. While retaining the black heritage, recent changes have introduced varied colours or a full wrap adding a modern touch. With accessibility in mind, these taxis accommodate passengers with disabilities seamlessly. Amidst potential updates, our London Taxis maintain their timeless design, colouring the city's transportation landscape. - Your guide will be happy to customise the itinerary on the day for you if you wish to spend more or less time at attractions/areas stated on your tour itinerary
- Accesibility: All Black Cabs are wheelchair accessible and foldable wheelchairs (under 10kg) can be stored in the vehicle. Please note the person must be able to get into and out of the vehicle without the assistance of the driver or tour guide and a member of the group must be able to lift the wheelchair in and out of the vehicle without the assistance of the driver or tour guide. Additionally, on some occasions, slight amendments to the route may need to be made to make this fully accessible. If your wheelchair is over 10kg or cannot be folded to be easily stored in a vehicle, please be in touch, so we can arrange a custom booking for you.
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