What You Will Do
Discover the life of Winston Churchill, Britain’s greatest wartime leader, while exploring London’s rich World War II history.
This Churchill & World War II tour includes landmarks like Downing Street, Churchill’s wartime headquarters, and the Ministry of Defence, where pivotal military decisions were made. Visit the Battle of Britain Memorial, honouring the pilots who safeguarded Britain from invasion, and St Margaret’s Church, where Churchill married Clementine Hozier.
Admire the Churchill statue overlooking Big Ben symbolizing his enduring legacy. Pay respects at the Cenotaph, Britain’s key war memorial, and the Women of World War II Memorial, celebrating women’s vital wartime contributions.
Along the way, see Churchill’s favourite pub, learning about his personal side and love for London’s traditions. The tour concludes outside the Churchill War Rooms, where you can delve deeper into the life and strategies of this legendary leader in his historic underground bunker.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
The tour starts at Embankment Station (Embankment Pier Exit). The Embankment Pier Exit is the exit closest to the river. On arrival look for your tour guide holding the yellow umbrella.
1
Churchill War Rooms
10 minutes
Entry Tickets Not Included. The Churchill War Rooms are a historic underground complex used as the nerve centre of British operations during World War II. This secret bunker housed Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his staff, safeguarding them from bombings. Visitors explore preserved rooms, including the Map Room and Churchill’s personal quarters, gaining insight into wartime strategies. Operated by the Imperial War Museum, it showcases resilience and leadership during Britain’s darkest hours.
2
Downing Street
10 minutes
Downing Street, notably Number 10, is the official residence and office of Britain's Prime Ministers, including Winston Churchill during his leadership. Serving as the hub of wartime decision-making, it was where Churchill directed key strategies, addressed the nation, and held vital meetings. Despite frequent air raids during World War II, Churchill famously worked there, symbolizing steadfast leadership. Today, it stands as a historic landmark tied closely to his legacy.
3
Winston Churchill Statue
5 minutes
The Winston Churchill statue in Parliament Square honours Britain’s iconic wartime leader. Sculpted by Ivor Roberts-Jones and unveiled in 1973, the bronze figure depicts Churchill in a determined pose, clad in a military overcoat, leaning on his cane. Positioned near the Houses of Parliament, it symbolizes his pivotal role in defending democracy during World War II. The statue remains a powerful tribute to his leadership and enduring legacy.
4
Battle of Britain Monument
The Battle of Britain Memorial commemorates the bravery of "The Few"—Royal Air Force pilots who defended Britain during World War II’s pivotal air campaign. Unveiled in 2005, the bronze monument features a detailed frieze depicting scenes from the battle, alongside the names of airmen who served. It stands as a lasting tribute to their courage and sacrifice, safeguarding Britain’s skies against Nazi forces.
5
Houses of Parliament
10 minutes
The Houses of Parliament played a crucial role during World War II. Despite being targeted in air raids, including significant damage to the Commons chamber in 1941, parliamentary sessions continued, embodying resilience. Winston Churchill delivered some of his most iconic wartime speeches there, rallying the nation. The building’s survival and continued operation during the war symbolized Britain’s steadfast commitment to democracy and defiance against tyranny.
6
Women of World War II Memorial
5 minutes
The Women of World War II Memorial honours the contributions of British women during the Second World War. Unveiled in 2005, it commemorates the often-overlooked roles women played in civil defense, military services, and wartime industries. The memorial features a bronze statue of a woman in overalls, representing the women who worked in essential roles. It stands as a tribute to their resilience and pivotal impact on the war effort.
7
Cenotaph
5 minutes
The Cenotaph is a solemn war memorial dedicated to British and Commonwealth soldiers who died in both World Wars and later conflicts. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and unveiled in 1920, it features a simple yet powerful design with inscriptions of war dead. Every year, the Remembrance Day ceremony on November 11 honours fallen soldiers, making the Cenotaph a symbol of national remembrance and sacrifice.
8
Ministry of Defence
5 minutes
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is the British government department responsible for national defense and military affairs. Located in Whitehall, London, it oversees the armed forces, coordinates defense policy, and ensures the country’s security. The MOD plays a vital role in shaping military strategy, defence procurement, and international defence relations. Its headquarters, housed in the historic Main Building, reflects its crucial position in safeguarding the United Kingdom and its global interests.
9
Saint Margaret's Church on Parliament Square
10 minutes
St Margaret’s Church holds a special connection to Winston Churchill as the site of his 1908 wedding to Clementine Hozier. Known as "the Church of the House of Commons," it has long been associated with parliamentary figures. This historic church, dating back to the 12th century, symbolizes Churchill’s personal life and his enduring ties to Britain’s political and spiritual heritage during his remarkable career.
10
HM Treasury
10 minutes
The Treasury Building played a pivotal role during World War II as a key site for Britain's financial and wartime administration. It housed essential government departments coordinating the war economy, ensuring resources for military and civilian needs. Its basement served as an emergency hub, protecting officials during air raids. The building’s contributions to managing wartime finances and strategy were crucial to sustaining Britain’s resilience and supporting the Allied victory.
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