Highlights
Follow Sir Winston Churchill's life & career as this tour charts his rise to political prominence, fall from grace, & triumphant return to power as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during its darkest hour. This tour takes you through the London he knew, from his childhood home to the lavish shops & grand royal landmarks that shaped his extraordinary life. Take the opportunity to purchase books, cigars, & champagne from the same shops as Sir Winston & hear tales of his triumphs and scandals. Our knowledgeable local guide will transport you around in a London Black Cab, which means walking is minimal. Finishing at the Churchill War Rooms (entry not included), the secret underground headquarters where he commanded Britain's fight for survival during the Second World War, this tour is perfect for history lovers and curious explorers. Our expert guide will bring Churchill's world to life with gripping stories, surprising anecdotes, and a passion for Britain's greatest leader.
About This Deal
Duration
3 hours
Languages Available
- Human tour guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: Site of Down Street tube station
5 Down Street, England W1J 7AQ
The Mount Street apartments, which Winston Churchill rented from his cousin, the Duke of Marlborough, have become known as Winston’s bachelor pad. The first place that he lived on his own this is where he entertained the actress Ethel Barrymore, as well as Pamela Plowden (the woman he is most closely associated with) before meeting Clementine Ogilvy Hozier in 1904. It was here where Churchill lived when he was first elected to Parliament in 1900, and it is said that whilst he employed a cook, it is reported that Winston would often order meals from the nearby Cobourg Hotel who, would send meals including Beef Wellington over to him in his apartment. While the apartment is a private residence is still worth stopping here and considering the young man who would become Britain’s greatest Briton.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Curzon Mayfair
38 Curzon Street, , London
Down Street tube station is a disused station on the London Underground and was closed in 1932. Before the Second World War, the 22-meter-deep abandoned tube station was converted into an emergency bunker for the Railway Executive Committee, who were charged with keeping Britain’s railways running during the Second World War. Used by Sir Winston Churchill in the early days of the Second World War, Sir Winston referred to Down Street as “The Barn”. But why was this location used when everyone today knows about the Cabinet War Rooms? Your guide will reveal all as part of the tour.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Royal Academy of Arts
Piccadilly, Burlington House, London
The Curzon London is opposite where Winston met the love of his life, Clementine Ogilvy Hozier the ball in 1904. Just 19 years old, Clementine would become Churchill’s greatest love, support, confidant, and of course, his wife with whom he built his home, Chartwell and his beloved family. Sadly, due to the nature of the building’s current use (which will guide will explain), we are unable to stop this location for an extended period.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Churchill And Roosevelt Allies Sculpture
New Bond Street, London
Bolton Street was home to Churchill's first 'bachelor pad' which, upon his marriage to Clementine became their first family home. Known for having toy soldier's loitering around the place, a library stocked with £6,000 worth of books and a bedroom which was decorated in his mother's taste, Churchill's home life started here. Whilst still in private ownership, the exterior views of Churchill's old home gives us the chance to discuss Churchill as a young man, as a new husband, and his relationship with his mother and his wife, both of which could be difficult yet loving.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Berkeley Square
45 Berkeley Square, London
Sir Winston Churchill had a notable connection to the Royal Academy of Arts in London. While primarily known for his political career and leadership during World War II, Churchill had a keen interest in art and was an accomplished amateur painter. Churchill's interest in painting led to a close association with the Royal Academy. He exhibited his works at the academy's Summer Exhibition under the pseudonym David Winters, and his lifelong passion for painting and his dedication to the arts is widely acknowledged even today. In recognition of Churchill's contributions to the arts and his association with the Royal Academy in 1948, he was made an honorary academician, a distinguished title that further solidified his connection to the institution. Whilst at the Royal Academy of Arts, your guide will explain why painting became so important in Sir Winston’s life, how his paintings give us insight into his life, and why his paintings can be so controversial.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Savile Row
Savile Row, London, England W1S
This iconic statue of the two great wartime leaders was designed to capture their intimate friendship. Sat on a bench and chatting happily this statue was unveiled by Princess Margaret in 1995 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Now a popular tourist attraction, this is the perfect place to stop, take a photo, and chat about the great men, their friendship, their differences, and some of outrageous stories that surround them both.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Fortnum & Mason
181 Piccadilly, , London
Churchill's marriage to his wife Clementine has often been seen as loving, stable, and faithful. However recent tapes unearthed at Churchill College Cambridge shed some doubt onto this view of their relationship. Was Winston having an affair with the woman dubbed 'The Mistress of Mayfair'? Did she, as some suspect, have plans to blackmail Churchill during the country's darkest hour? Uncover all, including the rumours and gossip that surrounded Churchill and his mistress, outside the address where she lived and where Churchill regularly met her.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Hatchards
187 Piccadilly, , London
Savile Row is a world-renowned street located in the Mayfair district of London, England. It is widely recognized as the epitome of bespoke tailoring and is considered the spiritual home of traditional British men's clothing. The street has a long and distinguished history dating back to the 18th century when it first gained prominence as a destination for fashionable attire. Over time, Savile Row became synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the highest standards of tailoring. Known for his love of the finer things in life, Sir Winston shopped at many of these outstanding boutiques throughout the course of his life. Whilst at Savile Row, your guide will explain which shops supplied what items of clothing to Sir Winston and why many shoppers still flock to these stores, thanks to the connection to the Churchill family.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: James J. Fox & Robert Lewis
19 St. James's Street, , London
Fortnum & Mason is a renowned luxury department store located in Piccadilly, London. Known for supplying the British royal family, the Churchills were also regular shoppers here. The store's iconic branding and packaging, characterized by the signature Fortnum & Mason hampers, and distinctive, teal-coloured packaging, have become synonymous with luxury and elegance. It was these luxurious hampers that Churchill’s mother sent to Winston whilst fighting in the trenches of the First World War. Today Fortnum & Mason is an iconic destination for locals and tourists alike, known for its exceptional products, luxurious shopping experience, and a sense of timeless elegance. It remains a symbol of British heritage, showcasing the best of British craftsmanship, gastronomy, and style. Whilst here, you will have the chance to shop like the Churchill family, or if you prefer, browse the opulent floors of fashion, food, and finery before continuing with your tour.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Lock & Co. Hatters
, , London
Hatchards is one of the oldest and most famous bookstores in London, England. Hatchards has a rich history that dates back over two centuries, is a popular destination for literary enthusiasts. This stunning store has reputation for its extensive collection of books and its commitment to quality and excellence in literature. Throughout its long history, Hatchards has catered to the tastes and interests of a wide range of readers, from the general public to royalty and prominent literary figures, including Sir Winston Churchill, who stocked his considerable personal library with books from this store. The store has maintained its status as a literary institution and a haven for book lovers, and no stop at Hatchards would be complete without the chance to purchase one of Sir Winston’s publications or a book about the great man by one of the many great literary and academic figures who have written biographies about the greatest Britain who ever lived.
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: St. James's
London
Here clients can see where Sir Winston purchased his cigars and visit the James J Fox museum (not available on Sundays or Bank Holidays) which contains a selection of artefacts linked to Sir Winston Churchill's smoking habits. This is also an opportunity to purchase, should you wish, some of the finest cigars in the country.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Buckingham Palace
Spur Road, London
See one of the finest hatters in the land and learn its links to Sir Winston.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Memorial
The Mall, London
Visit the shop which sells Sir Winston's favourite type of Champagne and, if you wish, purchase a bottle to take home with you. (Not available on Sundays due to the shops opening hours). Outside Berry Bros & Rudd your guide will also tell you about Sir Winston's infamous drinking habits, including asking for a glass of white wine for breakfast throughout the Second World War whilst the milk for his tea was rationed.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Admiralty Arch
Admiralty Arch The Mall, Cockspur Street, Trafalgar Square, London
St James's Place is where Churchill's parents lived during his childhood. It is possibly here (although no one can be certain) where Churchill's mother introduced the Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, to his favourite cook Rosa Lewis, who famously chased the young Winston out of her Kitchen with a ladle! Whilst here, you will have the chance to talk about Churchill's father, Lord Randolph Churchill and how Winston's upbringing made him the man that we all recognise today.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Whitehall
London
Stopping on the Mall you will learn about the relationship between Sir Winston Churchill and his relationships with the monarchy, including Edward VIII, whom he supported during the abduction crisis, George VI who he initially terrified, and Elizabeth II our current reigning monarch. Whilst outside Buckingham Palace we will also discuss Churchill's plans for the royal family if the invasion of England had taken place, and give you the chance to grab as many photos as you would like.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Parliament Square
Westminster, London
Learn about the free-French efforts during the war and why Churchill's orders to destroy the French fleet at Mers-el-Kébir were so important.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Churchill War Rooms
King Charles Street, Clive Steps, Westminster, London
Learn about how the King and Queen boosted morale during the war and how Churchill's difficult start with King George VI blossomed into one of the closest relationships that a British monarch has shared with a Prime Minister.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Charles De Gaulle Statue
Carlton Gardens, London
Sir Winston was First-Sea-Lord twice, firstly between 1911 and 1915 where he oversaw massive changes to the way the Navy was run. Given Britain's naval might, he ordered that for every ship Germany made, Britain would make two! Finally ousted from the Admiralty in 1915 due to political manoeuvring from the conservatives, Churchill's time at the Admiralty had changed the way war was fought - Churchill's admiralty had developed the world's first Tank! When Churchill returned to the Admiralty at the outset of the Second World War the British signalled the Royal Navy with the message "Winston is back!" much to the delight of sailors young and old.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Berry Bros. & Rudd
3 St. James's Street, , London
As your guide walks you down Whitehall, the home of the British government, your guide will point out the government ministries in which Winston Churchill worked during his illustrious political career. We will stop outside Downing Street where your guide will explain the key moments of Churchill's two terms as Prime Minister, his role as the leader of the opposition between 1945 and 1951, and how Churchill's shadow still looms large over British politicians today. Our final stop on Whitehall will be outside the building where Churchill addressed the crowds on VE day, where your guide will explain how the greatest Britain managed to lose the first election after the war.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: 105 Mount St
105 Mount Street, England W1K 2TN
See one of the many statues of Sir Winston Churchill and learn about his role in the reconstruction of the Houses of Parliament after the Second World War. You will also discover how Churchill was honoured with having his coffin lay in state at Westminster Hall, why his memorial was at St Paul's Cathedral and not Westminster Abbey, and why his statue faces Westminster and not into the Square.
Duration: 10 minutes
Additional Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Guide fees
Traveler Pickup Information
We can pick clients up from any central London location.
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Tours Of The UK in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Fine Print
14-day cancellation rights do not apply; no refunds or exchanges permitted. Voucher valid only for date and time listed; may not be exchanged or redeemed for other dates. Purchaser name and phone number must be provided at checkout; this information will be shared with Viator and the tour operator for purposes of order fulfillment. Groupon promo codes may not be used for this offer. Groupon voucher Terms of Sale do not apply. See the tour operator's terms and conditions for this offer here.
Offer is not eligible for our promo codes or other discounts.