we will be staying near the tower on the river. I will be going to a conference for the first three days. is there some good introduction to london tour that would be recommended? my partner has no limits about walking and is interested in the culture and history of England.

Nothing beats the walking tours done by the company London Walks. Their schedule is listed on line and you will have a variety of choices each day.

London Walks is great. So is DIY with a book like Andrew Duncan's "Secret London". A boat trip to Kew (westward) or Greenwich (eastward) would also be good.

If the weather is bad the London Museum (free, http://www.museumoflondon.org.uk/london-wall/ ) is a terrific intro to the history of London (and England). As is a good guidebook, of course.

Youngtom - very important - stay in a central location to maximize your sight seeing.

Get to know the public transport system:
http://www.tfl.gov.uk/gettingaround/15101.aspx

(note the bus map in that guide, in particular: from the Tower of London, the 15 bus is invaluable).

Staying near the Tower will have no effect on your sightseeing. Easy tube connections from Tower Hill and the #15 bus connects across to St Paul's, Trafalgar Sq, etc.

If he wants to go to Hampton Court, the best idea is to take the train (Waterloo station) TO the Palace and if the weather is decent take a boat back Into town. That way he can get there in the morning - the boat takes around 3 hours give or take depending on the tide.

Most of the museums have really good, free tours - both general orientation and special interests

Www.walks.com is the website for London walks