Buckingham Palace, Change the Guard & Crown Jewels Tour

Taking a tour that combines the majesty of Buckingham Palace with the historic drama of the Tower of London sounds like a perfect way to spend a day in London. While we haven’t personally experienced this specific tour, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews paint a picture of an engaging and well-rounded way to see some of the city’s most famous sights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides seem to bring history alive, making each stop fascinating. Second, the inclusion of priority access to the Tower of London saves what can be long wait times, especially during peak seasons. Third, the balance of cultural, royal, and historic highlights ensures you get a comprehensive glimpse of London’s past and present.

A possible consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, hills, and stairs, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues or large luggage. Still, for most fit travelers, this is an opportunity to combine sightseeing with storytelling in a compact, manageable package.

This experience is ideal for history buffs, royal enthusiasts, and first-time visitors eager to see the city’s most iconic landmarks with expert insights. It offers a good mix of structured sightseeing and the freedom to explore at your own pace afterward, especially at the Tower, where souvenir shopping is encouraged.

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Key Points

Comprehensive sightseeing including Buckingham Palace, Westminster, Tower of London, and more.
Expert guides enhance the experience with engaging stories and historical context.
Priority entry to the Tower of London helps avoid long lines and makes the visit more relaxed.
Small group setting ensures a more personalized and intimate experience.
Flexible schedule, with a photo stop at the London Eye and exterior visits to key landmarks.
Weather-proof operation, suitable in rain or shine, but be prepared for walking on uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering London’s Royal and Historic Landmarks

This tour offers a solid introduction to some of London’s most recognizable sights, blending iconic architecture with fascinating tales from the past. It’s designed to give you a balanced overview of royal traditions and historic events, making it perfect whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor.

Looking for more options in London? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting at Buckingham Palace

Your journey kicks off outside Buckingham Palace, the residence of the British monarch. From the moment you see the golden gates and the imposing façade, you understand why it’s called the “greatest Royal Palace in the world.” The exterior guided visit gives you a taste of royal grandeur, while your guide will share stories about the palace’s history and recent royal events.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, like “Our guide, Sarah, was incredibly insightful and shared stories I’d never heard before.” Standing outside, you might be lucky enough to witness the famous Changing of the Guard (schedule and weather permitting), a ceremonial spectacle showcasing the precision of the Queen’s Guards in their traditional uniforms. Observers often comment on how well-coordinated and theatrical this event is, with some noting that arriving early helps secure a good view.

The Changing of the Guard Experience

This ceremony is a highlight for most visitors. While some reviews mention that it can be crowded, the spectacle of uniformed guards marching in unison, exchanging duties with a formal salute, makes it worth planning for. It’s also a chance to witness a centuries-old tradition that continues to symbolize royal authority and pageantry.

Westminster and Big Ben

From Buckingham Palace, you’ll take a walk to Westminster, the political heart of London. Here, you’ll admire the majestic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, with plenty of opportunities for photos. Your guide’s commentary will shed light on the political history and architecture, making these landmarks more meaningful.

The tour includes exterior views of the London Eye, which offers an impressive backdrop, especially at sunset or during the day. Many travelers enjoy stopping here for a quick photo, and some reviews mention that the guide’s anecdotes about the city’s political dramas add a layer of context to these famous sights.

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The Tower of London: A Fortress of Secrets and Stories

Next is the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s steeped in history, intrigue, and legend. Your guide will escort you through the grounds, sharing stories of kings and queens, executions, and ghost sightings. The Crown Jewels are a major highlight—sparkling, priceless, and housed in a secure exhibition that you’ll visit with priority access.

Many reviews highlight the expert guidance of the Beefeaters (“Yeoman Warders”), who add humor and local lore to history lessons. The Bloody Tower and Tower Green evoke a somber history of royal executions and tragic tales, giving a sense of the fortress’s darker past.

The ghost stories and legends about the Tower Ravens are also a favorite topic, making the visit not just educational but also atmospheric. The tour ends at the Tower Gift Shop, where you can pick up souvenirs like royal-themed keepsakes.

There's plenty more to explore in London

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides a guided walking experience with a knowledgeable local guide, ensuring you get the stories behind each landmark. You’ll enjoy priority entry to the Tower of London, which is a huge time-saver during busy periods. The exterior visits to Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament are included, alongside a convenient photo stop at the London Eye.

However, it’s worth noting that transportation between locations isn’t included—you’ll need your Oyster Card, travel card, or contactless payment to move around easily. Also, food, drink, and entry tickets to the Palace or Parliament are not included, so plan to bring snacks or budget for additional expenses.

Meeting Point and Practical Details

The tour begins at the Constance Fund Fountain of Diana in Green Park, just a short walk from Green Park Tube Station. It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early to meet your guide and settle in. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making it convenient to explore more of London afterward.

Accessibility and Weather Considerations

This experience involves a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and inclines. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments, large luggage, or who require mobility aids. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as this tour operates rain or shine.

Analyzing the Value

At $175 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included priority access, expert guides, and the opportunity to see multiple landmarks in a half-day. The focus on storytelling and small group size enhances the experience, making it more intimate and personalized.

While it doesn’t include entry tickets or transportation, the overall package balances sightseeing, education, and convenience. If you’re interested in London’s royal institutions and historic sites, this tour provides a structured, insightful way to cover a lot of ground efficiently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided experience appeals most to history enthusiasts, royal fans, and visitors who appreciate storytelling with their sightseeing. It’s particularly valuable for first-time visitors who want an overview without the hassle of planning each site individually. The tour’s small group setup allows for questions and interaction, ideal for travelers who prefer a more personal touch.

Those with limited mobility might want to consider the physical demands, but most should find the pace manageable. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-guided introduction to London’s crown jewels, royal residences, and historic landmarks, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Buckingham Palace, Change the Guard & Crown Jewels Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into London’s royal world and storied past. The knowledgeable guides make history engaging, and the priority access points help maximize your time. The combination of exterior sightseeing, storytelling, and a small-group atmosphere provides a comfortable, educational experience.

It’s best suited for travelers who want to see major sights without the stress of navigating solo, and for those who value expert narration that adds depth to every stop. The mix of tradition, architecture, and tales makes it a compelling way to spend half a day in London.

If you’re eager to get a taste of royal London and enjoy stories that bring history to life, this tour could be just what you need. Plus, with the flexibility of booking now and paying later, it’s a low-risk option to secure your spot.

FAQ

Is transportation between landmarks included?
No, you’ll need your Oyster Card, Travel Card, or contactless payment to move between sites. The tour covers the sightseeing on foot.

Do I need to pay for entry tickets?
Entry to Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament is not included, so you might need to buy tickets separately if you want inside access.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there will be a fair amount of walking over uneven surfaces. Dress for the weather, rain or shine.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking on cobblestones and stairs, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or using large luggage or mobility aids.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children over 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The stories and sights are engaging for families, but keep in mind the walking involved.

What is the meeting point and time?
The meeting spot is the Constance Fund Fountain of Diana in Green Park, 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. The tour ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this tour offers an accessible and engaging way to see some of London’s most famous landmarks, told through the eyes of expert guides. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a mix of history, royal tradition, and scenic views without the hassle of organizing each site independently.