How to Take a James Bond Tour Through London

There's no better place to experience the world of James Bond than with a tour to the famous spy's hotspots in London. London is home to a variety of specialty tours and walks, but your own James Bond tour is one that you don't want to overlook (even if you're a Harry Potter fan). The James Bond classics include many famous London landmarks, and an official James Bond tour can take you all the way through the life of the spy-even the speedboat!

You'll want to start with a speedboat trip on the Thames with the London Voyage tour. These tours are designed to show you the best of London from the river, and you can take your pick of speedboats to zoom past Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, The London Eye, and other sights along the Thames. If you prefer something a little more slow paced, the company also offers relaxing cruises and charter boats throughout the year. Just call 020 7928 2350 for more information.

Back on the mainland, you can set your sights on the Imperial War Museum on the River Thames, a place where the 'Secret War' exhibition reveals the mission of the wars fought in London. It's the perfect spot to learn the essentials of secret agent training, as the museum is home to many of the original wartime airplanes and dozens of displays of espionage artifacts. Other popular exhibits here include the Children's War covering wartime in England from the eyes of a child, and an interesting Camouflage exhibit that shows the different parts of pop culture that have made the camo print famous.

Another museum to find out more about James Bond and the crew is the National Motor Museum. It's about a two-hour drive from London, but well worth the trip. This museum has its very own James Bond exhibition with a large collection of speedy cars and racers that were used in scenes from recent James Bond movies. Be sure to pick up some souvenirs from the gift shop--miniature versions of your favorite James Bond vehicle are ideal!

After your educational experiences are over, make your way to Bond Street for some classic shopping and picking out your elegant outfits. Turnbull & Asser is the designer shop that made the classic English shirt popular, and you'll also find a tasteful collection of suits, ties, formalwear, cufflinks, and accessories here. Bond Street is home to a number of designer boutiques and luxury shops as well, so you'll probably find yourself spending at least half the day just browsing.

Finally, toast one of the world's most fashionable martinis at Duke's Bar, famous for its creation of the original James Bond signature drink. Duke's Bar is located in the Dukes Hotel in St. James Place, London and has its own conservatory overlooking a Zen garden. Not only is the bar itself a famous hotspot, but the dining room and accommodations offer gracious hospitality if you plan on spending a few nights in the area. Call 020 7491 4840 for more information.

Taking a tour of London in true James Bond fashion may require a little creativity, but there are plenty of sights to see if you're a die-hard fan. From a martini at Dukes Bar to the speedboat cruise along the Thames, you're sure to see London from a different perspective after walking along the trails of the world's most famous spy.