Discover the timeless charm of London’s royal heritage on this captivating half-day tour. Journey through iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square and Westminster Abbey, culminating in the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace. But the true highlight awaits – an indulgent afternoon tea at the prestigious Rubens at the Palace Hotel, where delicate finger sandwiches, flaky scones, and decadent pastries pair perfectly with a glass of champagne. This exclusive experience offers a seamless blend of sightseeing and refined British tradition, promising an unforgettable day in the heart of the city.

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Key Points

This Royal London Tour features iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Westminster, and Buckingham Palace, with a highlight being the Changing of the Guards ceremony.
The tour includes an expert Blue Badge Guide, comfortable coach transportation, and personal audio headsets for clear listening during the tour.
Guests will enjoy a traditional afternoon tea experience at the five-star Rubens at the Palace Hotel, complete with finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and a glass of champagne.
The tour is suitable for all ages and is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a maximum group size of 52 travelers for enhanced exploration and photo opportunities.
The tour starts at 9:00 am at the Evan Evans kiosk opposite Gate 1, Victoria Coach Station, and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off services.

Overview of the Royal London Tour

The Royal London Tour offers visitors a glimpse into England’s regal traditions, featuring a half-day exploration of the city’s iconic palaces and royal sites.

Travelers will experience the grandeur of Trafalgar Square, Westminster, and Whitehall, culminating in the Changing of the Guards ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

The tour is designed for brief London visits, suitable for all ages, and wheelchair and stroller accessible.

With a maximum of 52 travelers, the group setting allows for ample exploration and photo opportunities, accompanied by an expert Blue Badge Guide and a comfortable coach with Wi-Fi and USB charging.

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

Exploring Trafalgar Square, Westminster, and Whitehall

After departing from the meeting point, the tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of London’s iconic landmarks.

The first stop is Trafalgar Square, a bustling public space dominated by Nelson’s Column and surrounded by the National Gallery and the iconic St. Martin-in-the-Fields church.

The tour then proceeds to Westminster, home to the majestic Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, including the iconic Big Ben.

Along Whitehall, participants witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace, a time-honored tradition showcasing the pageantry of British royal heritage.

The Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace

Witnessing the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace is a highlight of the tour.

Visitors gather around the palace gates to watch the meticulously choreographed ceremony. The new guards, known as the "Queen’s Life Guard," march in perfect synchronization, accompanied by a military band.

The familiar bearskin hats and red tunics of the guards are an iconic British tradition. Guests can take photos and marvel at the discipline and pageantry of this age-old ritual.

The tour provides an ideal vantage point to observe this quintessential London experience.

Enjoying Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace Hotel

Guests conclude their regal tour of London with a traditional afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace Hotel.

The five-star hotel‘s opulent setting provides the perfect backdrop for this quintessential British experience. Visitors indulge in a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a delectable array of pastries, all accompanied by a glass of champagne.

The attentive staff ensures a memorable experience as guests savor the flavors and ambiance. This refined tea service caps off an immersive journey through London’s royal heritage and traditions.

Group Travel Experience and Accessibility

The Royal London Tour offers a group travel experience that allows for greater exploration and enhanced photo opportunities compared to individual exploration.

With a maximum of 52 travelers per tour, the group size is ideal for maneuvering through the sights and capturing memorable moments.

The tour is also wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for travelers of all ages and mobility levels.

The tour is accessible for travelers of all ages and mobility levels, with wheelchair and stroller accommodations.

The use of personal audio headsets ensures everyone can clearly hear the expert Blue Badge Guide‘s insightful commentary throughout the excursion, enriching the overall experience.

There's plenty more to explore in London

Tour Inclusions and Highlights

The Royal London Tour includes an expert Blue Badge Guide who provides insightful live commentary throughout the excursion.

Travelers will explore London’s iconic landmarks, from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, where they’ll witness the Changing of the Guards.

The tour also includes a superior coach with Wi-Fi and USB charging, as well as a personal audio headset for easy listening.

The experience culminates with a traditional afternoon tea, complete with champagne, at the prestigious Rubens at the Palace Hotel.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off services ensure a seamless and convenient tour.

Meeting and Departure Details

The tour departs from the Evan Evans kiosk opposite Gate 1, inside Victoria Coach Station at 9:00 am.

After morning exploration, the tour concludes with afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace Hotel, a 5-minute walk from Victoria Station. The hotel serves as the drop-off point, allowing guests to easily access other transportation options.

Guests should arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. The pick-up and drop-off services ensure a seamless start and end to the day’s royal sightseeing and afternoon tea experience.

Additional Information and Guest Reviews

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this tour.

The Changing of the Guard occurs on select days, with an alternative viewing at the Horse Guards Parade if necessary.

Guests with dietary restrictions must communicate their needs 48 hours in advance to accommodate special afternoon tea requests.

Guests with dietary restrictions must communicate their needs 48 hours in advance to accommodate special afternoon tea requests.

This tour is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.

Based on 3 reviews, the tour has a 4.3 rating, with positive feedback on the afternoon tea experience and service quality.

This well-rounded tour provides an ideal introduction to London’s regal traditions and attractions for visitors with limited time.

Ask Away

What Should I Wear for the Tour?

Comfortable, smart casual attire is recommended for the tour. Avoid overly formal or casual wear. Layers may be helpful to adjust to changing weather conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are encouraged for the sightseeing portion of the experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, bringing your own food and drinks is generally not allowed on guided tours. The tour includes a traditional afternoon tea at the hotel, so outside food and beverages are typically prohibited to ensure a seamless group experience.

Is There Luggage Storage Available?

The tour does not provide luggage storage. Travelers are advised to travel light, as they’ll need to carry their own luggage throughout the tour. Large bags and suitcases are not permitted on the coach.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Hotel?

Unfortunately, the tour package does not include an option to extend your stay at the hotel. The tour is a half-day experience focused on exploring London’s royal sites and concludes with afternoon tea. Any additional hotel arrangements would need to be made separately.

Is Tips and Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?

No, tips and gratuity are not included in the tour price. Travelers are expected to provide additional tips to the guide and any other service staff at their discretion based on the quality of service received.

Final Words

The Royal London Tour with Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace offers a captivating half-day experience, showcasing the capital’s iconic sites and culminating in a delightful traditional afternoon tea. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, participants enjoy comfortable transportation and personal audio headsets, ensuring a memorable day of British heritage and culture.