Buckingham Palace, the iconic residence of the British monarchy, stands tall and majestic, drawing visitors from around the world. This exclusive tour promises an intimate glimpse into the grandeur of royal life, from the ornate State Rooms to the captivating Changing of the Guard ceremony. As you wander through the serene Royal Parks and explore historic landmarks, you’ll uncover the rich tapestry of British history that has shaped this remarkable destination. What secrets might these hallowed halls reveal?

Contents show

Key Points

A comprehensive 3-hour tour that explores Buckingham Palace, the Changing of the Guard, and iconic landmarks around Westminster.
Provides access to the palace’s opulent State Rooms, Queen Victoria’s Palace exhibition, and the serene palace gardens.
Offers a chance to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, showcasing the precision and discipline of the Queen’s Guard.
Includes a guided exploration of the Royal Parks and Parliament Square, highlighting the area’s rich history and architectural splendor.
Limited to 15 participants for an intimate experience, with the tour starting at The Ritz and ending near Buckingham Palace.

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Buckingham Palace and the iconic sights of Westminster.

It’s a 3-hour journey through the heart of London, capped at 15 people for an intimate experience.

Highlights include witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, strolling through royal parks, and photographing landmarks like Westminster Abbey and Big Ben.

Witness the Changing of the Guard, stroll through royal parks, and capture iconic landmarks like Westminster Abbey and Big Ben.

With access to the palace gardens and exhibitions, this small-group tour provides a well-rounded look at the city’s regal history and famous landmarks.

Conveniently meeting at The Ritz, it culminates at Buckingham Palace, steps from the Green Park tube station.

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

Exploring Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, the iconic home of the British royal family, stands tall and regal, its grand facade captivating visitors from around the world.

Stepping inside, guests are awed by the opulent State Rooms, adorned with priceless artworks and furnishings.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony, a time-honored tradition, draws large crowds eager to witness the disciplined precision of the Queen’s Guard.

Exploring the palace’s beautiful gardens, visitors can admire the serene landscaping and catch glimpses of the palace’s iconic architecture.

With access to the Queen Victoria’s Palace exhibition, the tour offers a comprehensive insight into the history and grandeur of this beloved royal residence.

Witnessing the Changing of the Guard

As the clock strikes 11 AM, a hush falls over the gathered crowd, their eyes fixed on the palace gates.

Suddenly, the sound of marching boots echoes through the air as the Queen’s Guard emerges, their scarlet tunics and bearskin hats standing in stark contrast to the grey stone of the palace.

With precision and discipline, the soldiers perform the Changing of the Guard ceremony, their movements choreographed to perfection.

The onlookers watch in awe, capturing the moment on their cameras and phones, eager to witness this iconic British tradition firsthand.

Discovering Royal Parks and Parliament Square

After leaving the pomp and circumstance of the Changing of the Guard, the tour continues through the serene Royal Parks, where visitors can stroll along the ornate pathways and admire the lush greenery.

Next, the group explores Parliament Square, home to iconic landmarks like the towering Elizabeth Tower (aka Big Ben) and the grand Westminster Abbey.

As they wander the square, they’ll marvel at the imposing architecture and capture stunning photos of the iconic sights.

The guide offers insights into the history and significance of these landmarks, enriching the experience.

Photographing Iconic Landmarks

Next, visitors are treated to a visual feast as they photograph some of London’s most iconic landmarks. From the grand Westminster Abbey to the striking silhouette of Big Ben, every snap serves as a memento of this unforgettable tour.

The group eagerly captures the London Eye, its giant ferris wheel dominating the skyline. Trafalgar Square’s famous lions and fountains provide a majestic backdrop.

Even simple scenes, like red phone booths or double-decker buses, become extraordinary through the lens. These timeless images will forever immortalize the group’s journey through the heart of London’s historic landmarks.

There's plenty more to explore in London

Accessing Palace Gardens and Exhibitions

The tour now shifts its focus to the palace gardens and special exhibitions.

You’ll have the chance to explore Queen Victoria’s Palace, an eye-opening exhibition that delves into the life and reign of this iconic monarch.

Wander through the lush gardens, marveling at the manicured landscapes and hidden corners. Capture photos of the grand architecture and picturesque grounds.

Audio guides are available to enhance your understanding of the palace’s history and significance.

This behind-the-scenes access offers a truly immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the splendor and legacy of the British monarchy.

Meeting and End Points

The tour begins at The Ritz London, located just a stone’s throw from the iconic red telephone boxes on Piccadilly. From there, the group will set off on foot, making their way through the bustling streets towards the tour’s end point at Buckingham Palace.

| Meeting Point | End Point | Nearest Tube |

| — | — | — |

| The Ritz London
150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR, UK | Buckingham Palace
London SW1A 1AA, UK | Green Park
Underground Station |

The convenient location allows participants to easily reach the tour’s starting point using public transportation. Once the tour concludes at the palace, guests can further explore the grounds or continue their sightseeing in the surrounding area.

Tour Inclusions and Accessibility

The tour package includes a Buckingham Palace entry ticket, allowing participants to explore the iconic royal residence.

With a small-group experience, travelers enjoy a guided tour led by a friendly local who shares insights along the way. Audio guides are available to enhance the Buckingham Palace visit.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Public transportation is nearby, making it easy to access the meeting and end points.

Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience and reserve now while paying later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs Inside Buckingham Palace?

Visitors can take photographs inside Buckingham Palace, but they’re limited to certain areas. They’ll need to check with their tour guide about the palace’s photography policies during their visit for the best shots.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting Buckingham Palace?

There is no strict dress code for visiting Buckingham Palace, but visitors are advised to dress respectfully. Casual attire is generally acceptable, though you may want to avoid overly casual or revealing clothing out of consideration for the formal royal setting.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts at the Buckingham Palace shop during the tour. The shop offers a wide range of products, from apparel and accessories to china and glassware, allowing guests to bring home a memento of their palace visit.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is highly accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access throughout, as well as allowances for service animals. Confirmation of any special needs at booking ensures a smooth and inclusive experience for all participants.

What Happens if the Changing of the Guard Is Canceled?

If the Changing of the Guard ceremony is canceled, the tour will still visit Buckingham Palace and explore the other main Westminster sights as planned. The guide will provide commentary on the palace and point out the iconic landmarks along the way.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour offers a unique glimpse into the grandeur of British royalty. Visitors will marvel at the opulent State Rooms of Buckingham Palace, witness the iconic Changing of the Guard, and explore the serene Royal Parks and historic landmarks of Westminster. With access to the palace gardens and exhibitions, this immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of the monarchy’s enduring legacy.