London by Night Tours at Trafalgar Square
Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
London by Night Tours offers a captivating evening open-top bus experience departing from Trafalgar Square, showcasing the city's illuminated landmarks with engaging live commentary. This 90-minute tour reveals London’s iconic sights bathed in night lights, blending history, culture, and humor for an unforgettable nocturnal adventure in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to London by Night Tours
- Trafalgar Sq, London, WC2N 5DS, GB
- +447435008941
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
- Thursday 9 am-8 pm
- Friday 9 am-8 pm
- Saturday 9 am-8 pm
- Sunday 9 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred time and avoid last-minute availability issues.
- Dress warmly and bring a waterproof jacket, as the open-top bus exposes you to the elements during the tour.
- Arrive early at Trafalgar Square to find the boarding point easily and settle in for the tour.
- Bring a camera or smartphone for stunning night photos of London’s illuminated landmarks.
- Check the weather forecast and consider the tour’s fixed route when planning your evening activities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Charing Cross station, located approximately 5 minutes’ walk from Trafalgar Square. Trains on the Northern and Bakerloo lines serve this station. Tickets range from £2.40 to £5.50 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop near Trafalgar Square, including routes 3, 6, 9, 11, 15, 23, and 139. Bus travel times vary by traffic but typically take 15–30 minutes from central London areas. A contactless payment or Oyster card fare is approximately £1.65 per journey.
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Taxi
Licensed London black cabs and ride-hailing services can drop you directly at Trafalgar Square. Travel times depend on traffic but usually range from 10 to 25 minutes from central London locations. Fares typically start around £5 and increase with distance and time.
London by Night Tours location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about London by Night Tours
A Unique Nighttime Perspective on London
London by Night Tours provides visitors with a distinctive way to experience London’s famous landmarks after dark. Departing from the historic Trafalgar Square, the tour takes you through the city’s illuminated streets aboard an open-top bus, offering panoramic views of iconic sites such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye. The evening setting transforms these landmarks into dazzling spectacles, enhanced by the city’s vibrant night lights and atmospheric twilight.Engaging Live Commentary and Cultural Insights
The tour features knowledgeable and personable guides who deliver live commentary filled with historical facts, entertaining anecdotes, and light humor. This narration enriches the experience by providing context to the sights you see, from tales of London’s rich history to the stories behind its architectural marvels. The guides’ engaging style keeps the atmosphere lively and informative, making the tour suitable for all ages and interests.Starting Point: Trafalgar Square’s Historic Heart
Trafalgar Square itself is a landmark steeped in history and symbolism. Named after the British naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, the square features Nelson’s Column, guarded by four majestic bronze lions, and iconic fountains redesigned in the 1930s. It serves as a vibrant public space and a hub for cultural events, protests, and celebrations, perfectly embodying London’s spirit. Beginning your tour here connects you directly to the city’s historic core.Tour Experience and Practical Details
The London by Night Tour typically lasts about 90 minutes, offering a comprehensive overview of the city’s illuminated attractions. The open-top bus allows for unobstructed views and excellent photo opportunities. While the route is fixed and not customizable, it covers a broad range of landmarks, making it ideal for visitors seeking a broad introduction to London’s nighttime charm. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and festive periods.Accessibility and Visitor Considerations
The tour is accessible to a wide audience, including families, solo travelers, and couples. The open-top design means that weather can affect comfort, so dressing appropriately for the evening chill or rain is advisable. Some guests have noted occasional logistical challenges with pickup locations, so arriving early and confirming details can help ensure a smooth start. The tour offers audio guides in multiple languages, enhancing accessibility for international visitors.Memorable Nighttime Adventure in London
Overall, London by Night Tours provides a memorable way to see the city’s most famous sights in a magical nocturnal setting. The combination of spectacular views, engaging storytelling, and the historic ambiance of Trafalgar Square as a starting point makes this tour a highlight for visitors seeking to experience London’s vibrant culture and history after dark.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nelson's Column
0.1 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.1 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.1 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Admiralty Arch
0.2 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Eleanor Cross
0.2 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
16-18 Whitehall
0.2 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Old Admiralty Building
0.2 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.2 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Captain James Cook
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Mary Poppins Statue
0.3 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.3 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.3 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.3 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.4 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Carlton House Terrace
0.4 km
Explore the architectural marvels of Carlton House Terrace, a historic street in London showcasing Georgian elegance and rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trafalgar Square
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.0 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
The Fourth Plinth
0.1 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
The National Gallery
0.1 km
Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of Western European paintings, this grand London gallery offers free access to masterpieces from the 13th to the early 20th century.
Canada House
0.1 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
St Martin-in-the-Fields
0.1 km
An iconic neoclassical church at Trafalgar Square blending rich history, architectural brilliance, and vibrant cultural life in central London.
Grand Building
0.1 km
A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
National Portrait Gallery
0.1 km
Explore the world’s largest portrait collection showcasing British history and culture in a welcoming, accessible London landmark.
Edith Cavell Memorial
0.1 km
A solemn tribute in central London honoring Edith Cavell’s courage, compassion, and sacrifice during World War I.
Solve A Mystery - London (Pick-Up Point)
0.2 km
Unravel a historic murder mystery through iconic London streets in this immersive self-guided detective adventure.
London Coliseum
0.2 km
Experience grand Edwardian theatre and world-class opera and ballet at the iconic London Coliseum in the heart of London’s West End.
Garrick Theatre
0.2 km
Experience timeless West End theatre in the intimate, historic Garrick Theatre, where classic charm meets captivating performances.
The Ghost Bus Tours
0.2 km
Dark comedy meets London history on a theatrical double-decker bus tour through the capital's most sinister stories.
Charing Cross
0.2 km
Charing Cross and the Strand: a historic London gateway blending culture, theatre, and vibrant city life along a legendary riverside street.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.2 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Essential places to dine
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.2 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
J Sheekey
0.3 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Wild Honey St James
0.3 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
The Garden
0.3 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.3 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.4 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Rules
0.4 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Clos Maggiore
0.4 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.4 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Bustronome London
0.4 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.5 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Meet Fresh
0.5 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.5 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.3 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Unique Britain
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Cool Britania
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Gifts of London
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
M&M'S London
0.4 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Floral Street
0.4 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Lillywhites
0.5 km
London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
House of Spells
0.5 km
Step into a world of magic and fandom at House of Spells, London’s enchanting emporium for Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.5 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
Charing Cross Rd
0.5 km
Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
The Moomin Shop London
0.5 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.5 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.2 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Old Shades
0.2 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.2 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Blind Spot London
0.3 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.3 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.3 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
The Spy Bar
0.3 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.3 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.4 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.4 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.4 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Ku Bar
0.4 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.4 km
Dive into Covent Garden's dual-world party den: prohibition cocktails below, live piano magic above—West End's ultimate nightlife hideaway for cocktails, cabaret, and endless sing-alongs. (162 characters)
Upstairs At Rules
0.4 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Mrs Riot
0.4 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.2 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Heaven
0.3 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Penthouse London
0.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Tiger Tiger London
0.4 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.4 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
0.5 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.6 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Sophisticats Soho
0.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.6 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Scotch of St James
0.6 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Box Soho
0.6 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Club49Soho
0.7 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nighttime Adventure
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly