American History In London Private Black Cab Tour with Pick Up

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Benjamin Franklin House

   The world’s only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s founding fathers, who lived here from 1757 to 1775. During his years in London, Franklin served as a colonial agent representing several American colonies to the British government. From this very house, he worked to ease growing tensions between Britain and the colonies—efforts that ultimately failed as the path toward the American Revolution became unavoidable. Today, the house stands as a rare physical link between London and the birth of the United States.

   15 minutes here

2. George Washington Statue

   This statue of George Washington, the first President of the United States, stands in Trafalgar Square as a powerful symbol of the historic ties between Britain and America. A gift from the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1921, it honors the leader of the American Revolution on British soil. Legend holds that the soil beneath the statue was brought from Virginia, allowing Washington—who never set foot in Britain—to stand only on American ground.

   15 minutes here

3. Grosvenor Square

   Grosvenor Square has long been a focal point of American presence in London. From 1938 to 2017 it was home to the United States Embassy, making the square an important hub of diplomacy during pivotal moments such as World War II and the Cold War. The area also features memorials honoring American service members, including those who fought alongside Britain during the Second World War, symbolizing the enduring partnership between the two nations.

   15 minutes here

4. Pickering Place

   Tucked away just off St James’s Street, Pickering Place is home to a plaque marking the former legation of the Republic of Texas. From 1842 to 1845, this small office served as the diplomatic mission of the independent Republic of Texas to the British government. The plaque commemorates a brief moment when Texas existed as its own nation, maintaining diplomatic relations with Britain before joining the United States in 1845.

   15 minutes here

5. The Stafford London is a historic hotel in St James’s with strong ties to American visitors and transatlantic relations. Built around 17th-century buildings, it became a popular residence for American diplomats, military officers, and travellers, particularly during the Second World War. Its famous underground wine cellars were even used as air-raid shelters. Today, it remains a symbol of Anglo-American friendship and a refined place to stay in the heart of London.

   15 minutes here

6. Abraham Lincoln Statue

   Located in Parliament Square in the heart of London, this statue of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, reflects the historic connections between Britain and America. Unveiled in 1920, it is a replica of the famous statue in Chicago’s Lincoln Park. The monument honors Lincoln’s leadership during the American Civil War and his role in preserving the Union and ending slavery, symbolizing shared ideals of liberty and democracy.

   15 minutes here

7. St. Paul's Cathedral

   St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and has strong links to Anglo-American history. The cathedral has hosted major national services attended by both British and American leaders, symbolising unity between the two nations during times of war and peace. Notably, it became a place of remembrance and resilience during the Blitz, when Britain and the United States stood together against common threats.

   15 minutes here

8. Smithfield Market

   Smithfield Market is one of London’s oldest markets, with a history dating back over 800 years. While primarily known for its meat trade, the surrounding area has witnessed key moments in London’s social and political history, including gatherings and unrest that shaped the city’s development. Its proximity to historic institutions and trade routes reflects the commercial backdrop of London during the era when early American ideas and connections were forming.

   15 minutes here

9. London Bridge

   London Bridge is one of the most historic crossing points over the River Thames, linking the City of London with the south bank for nearly two millennia. While the current structure is modern, the site represents centuries of trade and movement through the capital. Its unique American connection comes from the earlier 19th-century bridge, which was dismantled in 1968 and rebuilt in Lake Havasu City, Arizona—creating a direct and surprising physical link between London and the United States.

   15 minutes here

10. All Hallows By The Tower

    All Hallows by the Tower is one of the oldest churches in London, with origins dating back to 675 AD. It has strong historical links to early American colonists, as it is believed that several settlers preparing to sail to the New World worshipped here before departure. The church also survived the Great Fire of London and the Blitz, standing as a remarkable symbol of resilience and a quiet connection between London and early American history.

    15 minutes here

11. Blackwall Stairs is a historic set of riverside steps on the Thames, closely linked to early voyages to the New World. It is traditionally believed that the Mayflower departed from nearby in 1620, carrying the Pilgrim Fathers on their journey to America. This quiet riverside spot represents the beginnings of one of the most significant migrations in American history, connecting London directly to the story of the nation’s earliest settlers.

    15 minutes here

12. The Mayflower Pub stands on the banks of the Thames in Rotherhithe, close to the historic departure point of the Mayflower in 1620. Named after the famous ship, the pub reflects the area’s strong connections to the Pilgrim Fathers and their journey to the New World. Nearby churches and streets were home to those involved in the voyage, making this a key location in the story of early American settlement and transatlantic exploration.

    15 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• 4-Hour American History Tour

  Duration: 4 hours Pickup included

• 3-Hour American History Tour

  Duration: 3 hours Pickup included

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

London Sightseeing Taxi Tours

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Photos