A Classic London Walking Tour
- Dirk van Oosten
- Jan 16
- 9 min read
From Tower Bridge to Big Ben — Dirk’s all-time favorite walk
If you’re dreaming of extending your European adventure, London is a city that feels both grand and familiar. Monica and Dirk visited London in January 2026, and it confirmed once again why this city holds such a special place in Dirk’s heart — he lived here during his internship in summer 2012, and this walk became his favorite ritual.
This blog shares a self-guided walking tour that lets you experience London at its best: history, food, river views, pubs, and iconic landmarks — all at your own pace.
🏨 Where Monica & Dirk Stayed (and Why It’s a Great Base)
They stayed at CitizenM Tower of London, an ideal location for first-time visitors.
Why this area works so well:
Directly above Tower Hill Underground Station (Circle Line & District Line)
Across the street from the Tower of London
Easy access to most major sights
Surrounded by pubs, restaurants, and riverside walks
👑 Start Here: Tower of London
Begin your day right across from the hotel at the Tower of London, one of the most historic sites in England.
Why visit:
Home of the Crown Jewels
Nearly 1,000 years of history
Yeoman Warder (“Beefeater”) tours are included with admission
Estimated time: 2–3 hours
Ticket price: approx. £33 adults (discounts for children/students)
This is one of those attractions that truly lives up to the hype.
🌉 Tower Bridge: More Than Just a Photo
From the Tower of London, walk toward the unmistakable Tower Bridge.
Many people don’t realize you can actually go inside the bridge towers.
Tower Bridge Exhibition highlights:
Walk between the towers on the glass floor walkway
Learn how the bridge opens for ships
Fantastic views over the Thames
Ticket price: approx. £12–£13
Worth it? Absolutely — especially if you enjoy views and engineering history.
🌿 Pause Like a Local: Potters Fields Park
On a sunny day, do what Dirk used to do in 2012:
Grab a cold drink from a small shop in Butler’s Wharf
Sit in Potters Fields Park
Enjoy views of Tower Bridge and the river
It’s a perfect moment to slow down before the longer walk ahead.
🚢 Along the Thames: History on Every Step
From Tower Bridge, continue west along the River Thames. You’ll pass:
HMS Belfast, a historic WWII warship (open to visitors, approx. £25)
London Bridge (yes — it’s still standing 😉)
The walk stays close to the river almost the entire time, making it scenic and easy to follow.
🍴 Food Heaven Stop: Borough Market
Soon you’ll reach Borough Market, one of London’s most famous food markets.
Why it’s special:
Food from all over the world
Street food + artisan vendors
Great for lunch or snacks
Monica and Dirk’s pick?
👉 Triple Cooked Chips — simple, crispy, and dangerously good.
Tip: It can get busy, so arriving earlier in the day is ideal.
🍺 Midway Pub Break: Doggett’s Coat and Badge
This walk is long — and the British have the perfect solution: pubs.
Doggett’s Coat and Badge sits right along the river and is perfect for:
A Full English Breakfast (if you’re early)
Classic Fish & Chips (yes, chips = fries in the UK)
A well-earned pint
It’s an ideal halfway rest stop.
🎡 The Grand Finale: Big Ben & Westminster
Continue walking along the Thames toward:
This stretch feels especially cinematic — iconic views at every turn.
⛪ Optional Extensions (If Your Legs Allow)
Where Prince William & Kate were married
Over 1,000 years of royal history
Ticket price: approx. £27
Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard
Walk through St. James’s Park
Time your visit for the Changing of the Guard (select days)
By this point, a pub stop will feel well deserved — and luckily, you’re in London.
🚶♂️ How Long Is the Walk?
Tower Bridge → Big Ben: ~2.5 miles (4 km)
Add Buckingham Palace: longer, but manageable
Total time: anywhere from half a day to a full day, depending on stops
Take your time. This walk isn’t about speed — it’s about soaking in London.
🍻 Evening Options: Pubs & Comfort Food
After a full day of walking along the Thames, London offers plenty of perfect spots to relax — whether you stay near the hotel or continue exploring near the end of the walk.
🏨 Close to the Hotel (Tower Hill Area)
If you prefer to unwind near where you’re staying, these options are just steps away from CitizenM Tower of London:
Dickens Inn (St. Katharine Docks)
A classic English pub set in a historic warehouse by the marina. Perfect for soaking up traditional British atmosphere with a pint in hand.
BrewDog Tower Hill (approx. 7-minute walk)
Great comfort food and locally brewed beers that are unique to this location — something you won’t find anywhere else. A favorite for a relaxed evening close to the hotel.
🚶♂️ Near the End of the Walking Tour (Westminster / Soho Area)
If you finish your walk near Big Ben, Westminster, or Buckingham Palace, these spots are ideal before heading back:
Soho is packed with pubs, bars, and restaurants — from traditional British pubs to lively modern spots. It’s an easy place to find exactly what you’re in the mood for after a long walk.
De Hems Bar (near Chinatown)
A beloved Dutch pub in the heart of London, serving Dutch, Belgian, and British beers. A fun and familiar stop where you can already taste classic Dutch snacks like kaassoufflés, frikandellen, and bitterballen — a perfect way to get into the Dutch spirit and prepare for your time in The Netherlands.
This way, you can choose:
A quiet evening near the hotel, or
A lively pub stop near the end of your adventure
Either way, London delivers 🍻✨
✨ Final Thought from Dirk
“If you only do one thing in London, walk along the Thames from Tower Bridge to Big Ben. It’s history, food, pubs, and views — all in one walk.”
And honestly? We couldn’t agree more 🤍
🇬🇧 London Extras – More Sights to Explore
Iconic places beyond Dirk’s Thames walk
If you have extra time in London (or want to swap a section of the walk), these highlights are well worth adding to your itinerary. They’re easy to combine with public transport and give you a broader taste of the city.
One of the world’s greatest museums — and free to enter. See treasures like the Rosetta Stone and ancient artifacts from across civilizations. Ideal for history lovers or a rainy day.
An architectural masterpiece with a stunning dome. Climb to the top for panoramic views over London or enjoy the peaceful interior.
Tip: Combine with a walk over Millennium Bridge for great photos.
Edgy, colorful, and creative.Street food from around the world, vintage shops, live music vibes — perfect if you want something lively and different.
One of London’s royal parks and a lovely place to slow down. Great for a walk, picnic, or coffee break between sightseeing stops.
Stand on the Prime Meridian, where east meets west and time begins. Combine with a stroll through Greenwich village or a river boat ride.
A modern indoor garden with sweeping city views — free, but reservation required.A relaxed alternative to observation decks, especially at sunset.
Street performers, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. A charming area for lunch, shopping, or an early evening drink.
✨ How to Mix & Match
Short on time? Pick one museum or park.
Rainy day? British Museum or Sky Garden.
Want contrast? Pair Camden Market with the classic sights.
Extra evening? Covent Garden or Soho for dinner and pubs.
London is wonderfully flexible — you can tailor your day to your energy level and interests, and still feel like you’ve experienced something special.
🏰 Optional Day Trip from London: Windsor Castle
Royal history, charming streets, and a timeless English town
If you have an extra day in London — or would like a calmer contrast to the busy city — a visit to Windsor Castle is highly recommended. It’s one of the most iconic royal sites in the world and an easy day trip from central London.
🚆 How to Get There from London
Train Options (Easy & Reliable)
Option 1 – From London Paddington (Fastest)
Take a train from London Paddington Station
Transfer at Slough
Continue to Windsor & Eton Central
Total travel time: approx. 35–40 minutes
Option 2 – From London Waterloo
Direct train to Windsor & Eton Riverside
Travel time: approx. 55 minutes
Slightly longer, but no transfers
Both routes are simple and well-signposted.
🎟️ Buying Train Tickets
Purchase tickets at:
Station ticket machines
Station service counters
Machines and staff offer English assistance
Same-day tickets are usually available
👑 Visiting Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it has been a royal residence for nearly 1,000 years. It was a favorite home of Queen Elizabeth II, who spent much of her time here.
What to See Inside the Castle
State Apartments
Lavish rooms filled with royal art, furniture, and history
St. George’s Chapel
One of the most beautiful Gothic chapels in EnglandFinal resting place of Queen Elizabeth IISite of many royal weddings, including Prince Harry & Meghan
Castle Grounds & Courtyards
Stunning views and impressive medieval architecture
🎟️ Castle Tickets & Practical Info
Ticket price: approx. £30–£32 (adults)
Tickets can be purchased:
Online in advance (recommended)
At the entrance (subject to availability)
Allow 2–3 hours for your visit
👉 Tip: Arrive earlier in the day to avoid crowds and ensure entry.
🌿 Exploring the Town of Windsor
After visiting the castle:
Walk along the River Thames
Enjoy lunch at a local pub or café
Browse small shops and streets near the castle
Windsor itself is charming, walkable, and relaxed — perfect for a slow afternoon.
🗓️ Sample Windsor Day Trip Schedule
09:00 – Depart London
10:00 – Arrive in Windsor
10:30–13:00 – Visit Windsor Castle
13:00–15:00 – Lunch & town stroll
16:00–17:00 – Return to London
You’ll be back in time for dinner or evening plans in the city.
✨ Why Add Windsor Castle to Your London Trip?
Easy train ride from London
Deep royal history
Beautiful architecture
Calm, picturesque town
A perfect half-day or full-day excursion
If London shows you the heart of England — Windsor shows you its crown.
🍺 Bonus Tip Near London Waterloo Station
If you choose to travel to Windsor via London Waterloo Station, consider stopping by the BrewDog Waterloo flagship restaurant either before or after your day trip.
This flagship location offers:
A wide variety of some of the best IPAs in the world
Delicious comfort food
A lively, relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect after a day of sightseeing
It’s a great place to unwind, refuel, and soak up a modern side of London’s pub culture — whether you’re celebrating a great day or simply enjoying the journey.
🇬🇧 Important Travel Notice: UK ETA Requirement
Before traveling to the United Kingdom, most visitors (including U.S. and Mexican passport holders) are required to apply for a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) before flying or entering the UK.
✈️ What Is a UK ETA?
A UK ETA is a digital travel authorization that allows short visits to the United Kingdom for tourism or transit purposes.
It must be approved before you travel
It is linked electronically to your passport
Airlines and ferry operators may deny boarding if you do not have a valid ETA
📝 How to Apply
You can apply for the UK ETA through the official UK government website:
We strongly recommend applying well in advance of your trip, as approval times can vary.
🌍 Traveling from London to The Netherlands
After your London adventure, continuing on to The Netherlands is easy and offers several great travel options — depending on whether you prefer speed, scenery, or a bit of maritime charm.
🚄 Option 1: High-Speed Train (Eurostar)
Travel directly by train from:
London St. Pancras International to:
Amsterdam Centraal, or
Rotterdam Centraal
Why choose this option?
Fast and comfortable
No luggage restrictions like flying
City-center to city-center travel
Reserved seating
This is the most popular and convenient option for most travelers.
🚆⛴️ Option 2: Train + Ferry (A Scenic Classic)
For a unique and relaxed journey:
Take a train from London Liverpool Street Station to Harwich International
Board the Stena Line ferry
Arrive directly in Hoek van Holland (The Netherlands)
Why choose this option?
A scenic overnight or daytime journey
A relaxed way to travel with sea views
Direct arrival in Dirk’s hometown area
A wonderful choice if you enjoy slower travel and something a little different.
✈️ Option 3: Flying
You can also fly from most London airports to The Netherlands:
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Rotterdam The Hague Airport
Flights are frequent and relatively short, making this a good option if you’re tight on time or continuing onward internationally.
✨ Final Tip
Whichever route you choose — train, ferry, or plane — traveling between the UK and The Netherlands is smooth and well-organized. Just remember to apply for your UK ETA in advance, and you’ll be all set for a magical journey across borders.
