London: The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Walking Tour

Explore the best of London’s iconic sights with the captivating Shard Viewing Gallery and Westminster Walking Tour. This 5-hour journey takes you through the city’s highlights, from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square, led by a friendly local expert. The tour culminates with a breathtaking visit to the Shard, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the city from the open-air viewing platform. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this experience promises to create unforgettable memories of the capital.

Key Points

• A 5-hour tour combining a visit to The Shard’s viewing gallery with a walking exploration of Westminster’s iconic sights.
• Priced from $97 per person, with free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options.
• Guided by a local expert, providing insights into over 20 top London landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben.
• The Shard offers 360-degree views from almost double the height of other viewing platforms in the city.
• Includes wheelchair accessibility and recommendations for what to bring, such as comfortable shoes and a camera.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This London walking tour combines a visit to the iconic Shard building with a guided exploration of Westminster.

Priced from $97 per person, the 5-hour experience includes 3 hours of walking through iconic sights like Buckingham Palace, Downing Street, and Westminster Abbey, plus 2 hours at The Shard.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers flexibility and convenience.

Led by a fun local guide, it promises 360-degree views from the high-speed elevator to the 68th floor of The Shard and the chance to witness the Changing of the Guard.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at The Ritz London, with the first stop being Buckingham Palace, where visitors can admire the iconic building and take photos for about an hour.

Next, the group walks to Trafalgar Square and Horse Guards Parade, each for about 20 minutes.

They then head to 10 Downing Street and Parliament Square, spending 20 and 40 minutes respectively.

Westminster Abbey is the final walking stop, giving participants 20 minutes to explore the historic site.

The tour culminates with a 2-hour visit to the impressive Shard, offering panoramic city views.

Experience and Features

One of the key features of this tour is the opportunity to see over 20 top sights in London, including iconic landmarks like Big Ben and The London Eye.

The tour is led by a fun local guide, available in English, ensuring an engaging and informative experience.

Wheelchair accessibility is also provided, catering to a wide range of visitors.

The Shard’s viewing experience is unparalleled, offering 360-degree views from almost double the height of other platforms in London, with an option to visit the open-air viewing platform on level 72 accessible via high-speed elevator.

The Shard Viewing Experience

Towering at almost double the height of other viewing platforms in London, The Shard offers unparalleled 360-degree views extending up to 40 miles.

Visitors can choose to visit the open-air viewing platform on level 72, which provides a thrilling perspective of the city.

Visitors can enjoy a thrilling perspective of the city from the open-air viewing platform on level 72 of The Shard.

The high-speed elevator swiftly transports guests to the 68th floor, where they can admire the breathtaking panorama of London’s iconic landmarks.

Whether gazing out over the River Thames or spotting distant landmarks, the Shard’s viewing experience is a must-visit for anyone seeking an elevated perspective of the city.

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Meeting Point and What to Bring

To begin, the meeting point for this tour is outside The Ritz Hotel, located at 150 Piccadilly, W1J 9BR.

The nearest tube station is Green Park Underground, with the left exit and stairs leading directly to The Ritz.

Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, an umbrella in case of rain, and a camera to capture the sights.

Don’t forget to bring any food or drinks you may want during the tour, as well as some cash on hand.

With these essentials, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy the Shard viewing experience and Westminster walking tour.

Getting to the Starting Location

The Ritz Hotel, where the tour begins, is easily accessible via the Green Park Underground station.

Simply exit the station and take the stairs leading directly to the hotel’s front entrance. This convenient location makes it easy for participants to find the meeting point and start the tour on time.

The short walk from the station takes approximately 2-3 minutes. Guests should allow enough time to arrive and check-in with the tour guide before the scheduled departure.

With clear directions and a central starting point, getting to the tour is straightforward and hassle-free for all participants.

What to Expect During the Tour

As participants embark on the tour, they’ll be led by a knowledgeable local guide who’ll provide engaging commentary throughout the experience.

The Westminster Walking Tour covers the area’s most iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and the Houses of Parliament. Guests can expect to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony on select days.

After the walking tour, the group will head to The Shard, where they’ll ascend to the viewing gallery on floors 68 and 72 to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to London’s history and architecture.

Additional Information and Booking

Although guests can book the tour online, it’s also possible to reserve the experience through a mobile app or by contacting the tour operator directly.

The tour is flexible, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, travelers can take advantage of the "reserve now & pay later" option to secure their spot without upfront payment.

The meeting point is outside The Ritz Hotel, with the nearest tube station being Green Park. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, an umbrella, and any desired food and drinks to make the most of the 5-hour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour information states that visitors should bring "food and drinks" as part of the recommended items to bring.

What Happens if the Changing of the Guard Is Canceled?

If the Changing of the Guard is canceled, the tour will continue as scheduled, focusing on the other top sights in Westminster. The guide will provide information about the ceremony and explain why it wasn’t held that day.

Is There a Dress Code for the Shard Viewing Experience?

There’s no strict dress code for the Shard viewing experience. Visitors can wear casual, comfortable clothing. However, it’s best to avoid wearing overly revealing or torn attire to maintain a respectful atmosphere at this popular tourist attraction.

Can I Take a Photo With the Queen’s Guard?

You can try to take a photo with the Queen’s Guard, but they’re not allowed to stop or pose for pictures. It’s best to observe them from a distance and capture their iconic uniform and stoic demeanor.

Is There Storage Available for Large Bags During the Tour?

The tour does not provide any storage for large bags. Participants are advised to travel light and bring only small bags or personal items that can be easily carried during the tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating London tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing and panoramic views. Explore iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, then head to the Shard’s open-air viewing platform for breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the city. Priced at $97 per person, it’s an unforgettable 5-hour experience not to be missed. Book your tour today and learn about the best of London.

You can check availability for your dates here: