Skip the Line Tower of London & Westminster Tour and River Cruise

This London tour packs a punch, hitting up the city’s iconic landmarks in one fell swoop. Bypass the queues at Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London to maximize your time. Cruise along the Thames, then witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. With a small group and expert guide, you’ll uncover the fascinating history behind these world-famous attractions. Whether it’s your first or fifth time in London, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

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Key Points

This comprehensive 7-hour tour covers iconic London landmarks, including Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London with skip-the-line access.
The tour includes a scenic Thames River cruise from Embankment to Tower Bridge, offering stunning views of London’s skyline.
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience, and headsets are provided for clear communication throughout the tour.
The tour is priced at $116.84 per person, offering excellent value for the included experiences and skip-the-line access.
The tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness, so guests should review the accessibility and fitness guidelines before booking.

Tour Overview

The "Skip the Line Tower of London & Westminster Tour and River Cruise" is a comprehensive 7-hour tour that allows visitors to explore some of London’s most iconic landmarks.

With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, the tour offers skip-the-line access to Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London, including the Crown Jewels.

Guests will also enjoy a scenic Thames River cruise from Embankment to Tower Bridge.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour includes headsets for clear communication and little-known stories behind the landmarks.

At $116.84 per person, this tour provides an excellent value for visitors looking to make the most of their time in London.

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Highlights of the Itinerary

This comprehensive 7-hour tour covers London’s most iconic landmarks, starting with a guided small-group walking tour.

You’ll skip the line and visit Westminster Abbey at 9 AM, followed by viewing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

Then, hop on a Thames River cruise from Embankment to Tower Bridge.

At the Tower of London, explore the Crown Jewels and learn little-known stories from your expert English-speaking guide.

Throughout, you’ll use included headsets for clear communication.

With a maximum group size of 20, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience exploring London’s top attractions.

Meeting and End Points

Guests meet at the Viscount Palmerston Statue in Parliament Square, SW1P 3JX, arriving 15 minutes prior to the tour’s scheduled start time. The tour concludes at 35 Tower Hill, EC3N 4DR, providing easy access to the Tower of London.

Meeting Point	End Point
Viscount Palmerston Statue Parliament Square, SW1P 3JX	35 Tower Hill, EC3N 4DR
Arrive 15 minutes early	Tower of London nearby
Central London location	Convenient end location
Easy to find landmark	Tour logistics simplified

The meeting and end points are strategically chosen to streamline the tour experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the sights and stories of London’s iconic landmarks.

Accessibility and Requirements

While the tour covers expansive ground, certain accessibility and fitness requirements must be considered.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and is unsuitable for guests with mobility impairments. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as guests will be expected to walk at a moderate pace throughout the day.

The tour is conducted in English, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace is weather-dependent.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, visitors should carefully review these accessibility and fitness guidelines before booking.

Exploring Westminster Abbey

As the tour begins, visitors embark on a captivating exploration of Westminster Abbey, a magnificent Gothic cathedral that has served as the coronation site for English monarchs for centuries.

With skip-the-line access, the group swiftly enters the historic landmark, marveling at its intricate architecture and learning about its rich history from the knowledgeable guide.

From the Poet’s Corner to the Royal Tombs, the guide shares little-known stories that bring the abbey to life.

Travelers experience the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site, gaining a deeper appreciation for its cultural and religious significance in the heart of London.

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Witnessing the Changing of the Guard

Next, the tour makes its way to Buckingham Palace to witness the time-honored Changing of the Guard ceremony.

This iconic ritual showcases the precision and discipline of the Queen’s Guard:

Visitors witness the guards marching in perfect unison, their scarlet tunics and bearskin hats a striking sight.
The ceremony involves the exchange of duties between the old and new guard, accompanied by a military band playing traditional tunes.
Travelers can capture the pageantry and take in the grandeur of the palace as the guards perform their duties.

Cruising on the Thames River

After exploring the landmarks on foot, the tour ushers guests onto a scenic Thames River cruise.

This relaxing boat ride offers stunning views of London’s iconic skyline, including the imposing Tower of London and the striking Tower Bridge.

Cruising along the river provides a unique perspective on the city’s history and architecture.

The leisurely journey is the perfect way to cap off a comprehensive tour, allowing travelers to sit back, unwind, and absorb the sights at a gentler pace.

With the onboard commentary, guests gain deeper insights into the landmarks they’ve visited, making this river cruise an integral part of the overall experience.

Discovering the Tower of London and Crown Jewels

Guests then make their way to the iconic Tower of London, a historic fortress with over 1,000 years of history.

At the Tower, they:

Witness the awe-inspiring Crown Jewels, an unparalleled collection of royal regalia.
Explore the Tower’s inner walls and learn about its role as a royal residence, prison, and place of execution.
Interact with the iconic Yeoman Warders, or "Beefeaters," who provide fascinating insights into the Tower’s captivating past.

The tour offers an immersive experience, allowing guests to step back in time and uncover the secrets of this legendary landmark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the tour. Most tour operators allow photography, except in certain restricted areas. However, be mindful of any rules or instructions from the guide to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or excessively casual clothing, as some sites may have dress requirements. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for this extensive tour.

Are Snacks and Beverages Provided During the Tour?

No, snacks and beverages aren’t provided during the tour. Guests are responsible for bringing their own food and drinks. The tour focuses on maximizing sightseeing time at the key landmarks rather than providing catering.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Point?

Guests may leave the tour group at any point, though it’s not recommended as they’ll miss key parts of the itinerary. Rejoining the group may be difficult, and refunds aren’t provided for unused portions of the tour.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

It’s generally not possible to extend the tour duration. The tour package has a fixed schedule, and extending it would require additional fees. However, guests can opt to explore sites further on their own after the tour ends.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive 7-hour tour offers unparalleled access to London’s iconic landmarks. Avoid long queues, cruise the Thames, and explore the Tower of London’s Crown Jewels. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this small-group experience provides an enriching and efficient way to discover the best of London’s history and attractions.