London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard
Watch Buckingham Palace's iconic ceremony, then bask in royal history at London's famous church
If this is your first time in London and you want the full royal experience with ceremonial marches, coronation chairs, royal tombs, and insider stories, this tour is for you. Walk through St. James's Park to claim the best spot for watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Then, skip the long ticket lines at Westminster Abbey with a certified guide who reveals the intrigue behind Britain's monarchy. It's everything you came to London to see, wrapped into three magical hours.
What You Get With This Tour
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Walk the path of kings and queens
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Expert Blue Badge certified guide
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Skip-the-line Westminster Abbey entry
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Guided tour of Westminster Abbey
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Changing of the Guard viewing
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Guided walk through St. James's Park
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Guide tips
Tour Itinerary
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1
Meet your guide in Central London
Your tour begins at a central London meeting point, where you'll meet your Blue Badge certified guide. After a quick introduction to the day's royal highlights, you'll set off toward Westminster's historic heart. -
2
Walk through Parliament Square
Stroll through Parliament Square, surrounded by statues of world leaders, the towering Gothic clock tower of Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament. Your guide sets the scene for Britain's political and royal history. -
3
Pass by Downing Street
Walk past the famous black door of Number 10 Downing Street, home to Britain's Prime Minister since 1735. Your guide shares stories of political power and the armed guards who protect this iconic address around the clock. -
4
Stroll through St. James's Park
Enter St. James's Park, London's oldest royal park, where pelicans glide across the lake. Follow tree-lined paths as you make your way toward Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch since 1837. -
5
Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
Secure a prime spot as the Queen's Guard march in iconic red uniforms and bearskin hats. Your guide explains the precision, tradition, and military history behind this world-famous ceremony that draws crowds daily. -
6
Skip the long ticket lines at Westminster Abbey
Skip the long ticket lines and step into Britain's coronation church, where kings and queens have been crowned for nearly 1,000 years. Your guide brings vaulted ceilings, stained glass, and royal stories to life. -
7
Explore royal tombs and Poets' Corner
Walk past Queen Elizabeth I's tomb, the Coronation Chair, and Poets' Corner, where literary legends rest. Your guide reveals hidden details about coronations, weddings, and centuries of British history in stone. -
8
Conclude your tour at Westminster Abbey
After exploring the Abbey, your tour ends where you stand. Your guide offers recommendations for nearby cafes and pubs, leaving you perfectly positioned to continue exploring royal London on your own terms.
Additional Information
Good to know:
Dress Code: Westminster Abbey is a place of worship, so modest clothing is recommended.
Weather Advisory: The Changing of the Guard may be canceled without notice due to weather or decisions by local authorities, but an alternative experience will be provided.
Accessibility: Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible and will require walking or standing for the majority of the 3 hours.
Tour Changes: On days when the Changing of the Guard does not take place (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays or due to poor weather) you’ll instead visit the Horse Guard Ceremony and enjoy a walking tour of the Westminster area.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can enter sites on time.
Your 3-hour tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide with Blue Badge certification
Skip-the-line entry and guided tour of Westminster Abbey
Viewing of the Changing of the Guard ceremony or Horse Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace
Visit to Downing Street and St. James Park
Maximum group size of 20
What to bring:
Comfortable walking shoes
Weather-appropriate clothing
Camera
Water bottle
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Customer Reviews
Couldn't see changing of the Guards because of bad weather but Jill was great
Our guide was five star with such amazing historical color and commentary on Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. He was fabulous!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour family friendly?
Yes, this tour is family friendly. Children will enjoy exploring Westminster Abbey and watching the colorful ceremony at Buckingham Palace. The tour involves walking and standing for three hours, so comfortable shoes are essential for younger travelers.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible and will require walking or standing for the majority of the three hours. If you have concerns about your mobility, please contact us in advance to discuss your needs.
What should I wear to Westminster Abbey?
Westminster Abbey is a place of worship, so modest clothing is recommended. While there's no strict dress code, respectful attire helps ensure a smooth entry.
What happens if the Changing of the Guard is canceled?
The ceremony may be canceled due to weather or official decisions. When this happens, you'll visit the Horse Guard Ceremony instead and enjoy a guided walking tour of the Westminster area. Your guide will ensure you still experience London's royal traditions.
How much walking is involved?
This is a three-hour walking tour with moderate walking between Westminster Abbey, St. James's Park, and Buckingham Palace. You'll also spend time standing inside the Abbey and while watching the ceremony. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
