London’s iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony and majestic Westminster Abbey offer a captivating glimpse into Britain’s rich history and time-honored traditions. This guided tour takes visitors on an immersive journey, providing skip-the-line access to the Abbey’s stunning architecture and insights into its royal significance. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression, sparking your curiosity to discover more about the city’s cultural treasures.

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Key Points

This tour includes a visit to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
Visitors can explore the historic Westminster Abbey with skip-the-line access and an audio guide.
The tour covers additional iconic sights like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the Queen Victoria Fountain.
A knowledgeable local guide provides insightful commentary and personalized attention throughout the 5-hour experience.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 5-hour tour provides an immersive experience to explore London’s iconic landmarks. Priced from $87.95 per person, the tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible.

Guests meet outside the Ritz Hotel near Green Park Underground station, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Convenient booking options include reserving now and paying later.

The tour covers top sights like Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and Westminster Abbey, with an expert local guide providing insights throughout the experience.

Travelers can expect a personalized small-group tour with ample photo opportunities and skip-the-line access at key attractions.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off at the iconic Ritz London, where guests are greeted by their knowledgeable guide.

The tour begins at the renowned Ritz London, where guests are welcomed by their knowledgeable guide.

From there, the itinerary includes:

A photo stop and guided tour of Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s official London residence.
A visit to Trafalgar Square, the iconic public square known for its fountains and Nelson’s Column.
A guided tour of Horse Guards Parade, the site of the daily changing of the guard ceremony.
A stop at 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the Prime Minister.

The tour then moves on to Parliament Square and the famous Westminster Abbey, where guests have ample time to explore.

Key Attractions

A key highlight of the tour is the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, which takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 10 am. Guests can witness this traditional British ritual and capture photos of the iconic palace.

The tour also includes a visit to the magnificent Westminster Abbey, an entry ticket with skip-the-line access, and an audio guide to explore this historic landmark at their own pace.

Plus, the tour covers other famous sights like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the Queen Victoria Fountain, and Pall Mall.

Tour Experience

What makes this tour a unique experience is the small group size, which allows for a more personalized and engaging exploration of London’s rich history and top attractions.

The knowledgeable local guide brings the city to life, sharing stories and insights that elevate the experience beyond a typical sightseeing tour.

Highlights include:

Guided walking tour of Westminster, covering over 20 famous sights.
Skip-the-line access and audio guide for the iconic Westminster Abbey.
Opportunity to witness the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Flexibility to ask questions and receive personalized attention throughout the tour.

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Customer Feedback

Numerous reviews for this London tour highlight the overall positive experience, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 3 customer evaluations.

Travelers describe the tour as informative and engaging, praising the knowledgeable guide. One reviewer notes, "Nathanial was great – he really knew his stuff and brought the history to life."

The tour seems to appeal to a variety of visitors, including couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.

Customers consistently express satisfaction with the wealth of information gained and the opportunity to see Westminster Abbey and other iconic sights during this comprehensive 5-hour experience.

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Buckingham Palace

The tour begins at The Ritz London, where visitors embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Westminster.

The first stop is Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the Queen. Guests enjoy:

A photo stop outside the iconic palace.
A guided tour, providing insights into the palace’s rich history and architecture.
Sightseeing around the grounds, including the famous balcony where the royal family greets the public.
The opportunity to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony (on select tour days).

From Buckingham Palace, the tour continues to other renowned landmarks, including Trafalgar Square and Westminster Abbey.

Trafalgar Square

From Buckingham Palace, the tour proceeds to Trafalgar Square, a renowned landmark in the heart of London.

This historic square features the famous Nelson’s Column, surrounded by four lion statues. Visitors can take photos of the square’s iconic architecture and sculptures.

Trafalgar Square’s iconic architecture includes Nelson’s Column and four lion statues, perfect for photographic opportunities.

The guide provides insights into the square’s significance, including its role as a gathering place for public events and demonstrations.

After 20 minutes spent exploring the square, the tour moves on to the next stop, Horse Guards Parade, where the traditional military ceremony can be observed.

Westminster Abbey

After exploring the iconic landmarks in the surrounding area, the tour now makes its way to Westminster Abbey.

As the centerpiece of the tour, this 1000-year-old abbey offers a glimpse into Britain’s rich history and religious heritage.

The tour includes:

Skip-the-line access, allowing visitors to bypass lengthy queues.
An audio guide providing in-depth commentary on the abbey’s architecture, tombs, and famous stained glass.
The opportunity to witness the coronation site of British monarchs.
Time to wander the abbey’s serene interiors and hidden nooks at one’s own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Visitors should dress respectfully, as the tour includes a visit to the historic Westminster Abbey.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom breaks provided during the tour. The tour schedule includes time for participants to use the restrooms at various points along the itinerary, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout the 5-hour walking tour.

Can We Take Photos Inside Westminster Abbey?

Yes, photography is allowed inside Westminster Abbey, but without flash. Visitors can capture the architectural details and stunning interiors during the tour. However, filming and tripods are not permitted to ensure a peaceful experience for all.

Is There an Option for a Private or Customized Tour?

Yes, there’s a reserve now & pay later option for a private or customized tour. You can personalize the itinerary and enjoy a more intimate experience with a private guide.

How Much Walking Is Involved Throughout the Tour?

The tour involves a significant amount of walking, covering over 20 famous sights throughout Westminster. Guests should expect to walk approximately 3-4 miles during the 5-hour experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended for this active guided tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour offers a unique opportunity to experience London’s rich history and iconic landmarks. Witness the remarkable Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, then explore the grandeur of Westminster Abbey with skip-the-line access. Enjoy British traditions and culture, while capturing stunning photographs along the way. A perfect blend of sightseeing and cultural insight, this tour showcases the best of London.