London: Buckingham, Big Ben & Westminster Abbey Tour

Discover London’s Highlights with the Buckingham, Big Ben & Westminster Abbey Tour

This guided walking tour offers a comprehensive introduction to some of London’s most iconic sites, all for $100.50 per person. With a flexible duration of 3 to 7 hours, the tour combines visits to Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Starting from the Abraham Lincoln Statue, the experience is designed for those eager to see London’s royal and historic landmarks in a single engaging morning.

We like how the tour provides skip-the-line access to Westminster Abbey, saving valuable time, and offers insight from knowledgeable guides. The small group size—maximum 20 participants—ensures a more personal and less crowded experience. However, travelers should be aware that the Changing of the Guard only occurs on specific days, and on other days, the tour visits the Horse Guards Parade instead. This makes it ideal for visitors who appreciate detailed storytelling and a well-paced itinerary.

Key Points

• Includes skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey and viewing of the Changing of the Guard or Horse Guards Parade
• Guided walking tour led by an English-speaking expert with headsets for groups of 10 or more
• Visit highlights such as Downing Street, St. James’s Park, and Buckingham Palace
• Tour duration ranges from 3 to 7 hours, with flexible start times
• Small group setting of up to 20 participants ensures a personalized experience
• Optional full-day extension adds a river cruise and Tower of London visit

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point Outside the Abraham Lincoln Statue

The tour begins at the Abraham Lincoln Statue located outside Parliament Square. This spot is easy to find, with a representative holding a “The Tour Guy” sign waiting 10-15 minutes before departure. The prompt start ensures you get the best vantage points for the day’s activities.

The initial meeting point provides quick access to Westminster Abbey, carefully chosen to allow early entry and avoid crowds. Attendees should arrive punctually, and comfortable shoes are recommended to navigate the walking segments comfortably.

Exploring Westminster Abbey with a Guided Tour

Westminster Abbey is the first major stop, with a guided tour lasting approximately 105 minutes. The skip-the-line entry means you bypass long queues and head straight inside this Gothic Cathedral. Here, the guide explains the significance of the Coronation Chair, the history of Poets’ Corner, and notable figures like Charles Dickens, whose tomb is located there.

Inside, you walk through areas where many kings and queens have been crowned or married, gaining a deeper understanding of the Abbey’s role in British royal traditions. The guide’s storytelling brings to life the Abbey’s many stories and legends, making the visit both educational and engaging.

Passing by Prime Political Landmarks

After Westminster Abbey, the tour proceeds past 10 Downing Street, the residence of the UK Prime Minister, for a quick 5-minute pass-by. Then, the group visits the Horse Guards Parade for about 10 minutes, where the ceremonial Changing of the Guard takes place on specific days.

This segment offers a close-up view of the soldiers in bearskin hats and their precise movements. The guide provides historical context for the ceremony, highlighting its military and royal significance. Keep in mind that bad weather or scheduling changes may affect the ceremony’s occurrence, but the guide will adapt accordingly.

Strolling Through St. James’s Park

Next, a 10-minute walk takes the group through St. James’s Park, one of London’s most scenic green spaces. The park provides a peaceful setting with views of Buckingham Palace and the lake, making it a good spot for photos. The guide shares tidbits about the park’s history and its role as a royal park historically linked to the monarchy.

The relaxed walk allows participants to enjoy London’s outdoors and take in the city’s royal ambiance before heading to the main event at Buckingham Palace.

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Witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

The highlight for many is the 30-minute viewing of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. The soldiers, dressed in their striking tunics and bearskin hats, exchange duty in a ceremony that exemplifies British pageantry and discipline.

Depending on the schedule, the tour either witnesses this ceremony at Buckingham Palace or at Horse Guards Parade if scheduled on a different day. The guide explains the historical significance of the guards and the royal residence, ensuring visitors understand the tradition’s importance.

Photo Opportunities at Buckingham Palace

Following the ceremony, there’s a 5-minute photo stop at Buckingham Palace. This is an ideal moment to capture the palace’s façade and the guards in action. The proximity allows for memorable photos while the guide offers tips on the best angles and vantage points.

The photo stop provides a brief moment to absorb the grandeur of the palace before the tour continues to its endpoint.

Tour Endpoints at Tower of London or Buckingham Palace

The tour concludes at two convenient drop-off points: the Tower of London or Buckingham Palace. If the full-day extension is selected, participants enjoy additional experiences such as a scenic river cruise and a tour of the Tower of London with its famous Crown Jewels.

The flexible endpoints allow attendees to plan their later sightseeing or travel arrangements with ease. The entire experience ensures a rundown of London’s royal and historic sites in a single engaging morning or afternoon.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs from outside the Abraham Lincoln Statue and requires guests to arrive 10-15 minutes early for check-in. The overall group size is limited to 20 participants, fostering a more intimate and engaging environment. For larger groups, headsets are provided to ensure everyone can clearly hear the guide.

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, nor does it include entrance fees to Big Ben or the interior of Buckingham Palace. However, skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey and optional river cruise or Tower of London visits add substantial value for the price.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the walking nature and historical sites involved. Attendees should wear comfortable shoes and bring passport or ID if needed.

It’s important to note that the Changing of the Guard schedule can change or be canceled, especially in bad weather, with little notice. When cancellations occur, alternative activities, like the Westminster Abbey guided walk, are offered.

Guided Tour Quality and Informational Depth

The tour is led by English-speaking guides known for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. Several reviews praise guides like Adrián, Ben, Steve, Nick, and Jackie for their storytelling skills, humor, and ability to answer questions.

Guides focus on providing insider knowledge, making the history of Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the guard ceremonies come alive. The use of headsets ensures clear communication, especially in crowded moments like the guard change.

Value and Overall Experience

At $100.50, the tour offers good value considering the inclusion of skip-the-line tickets and personalized guidance. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for better interaction and viewing points.

While it does not include access to Buckingham Palace’s interior, the exterior views and comprehensive sightseeing make this a practical choice for visitors wanting to see London’s core landmarks efficiently. The flexibility of timing and the option to extend with additional activities make this tour adaptable to different schedules.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This sightseeing experience suits visitors who want a thorough yet manageable overview of central London’s royal and historic sites. It’s especially recommended for those who value guided storytelling and priority access to Westminster Abbey.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those seeking interior palace visits should consider other options. The tour’s schedule is subject to weather conditions and changing guard timings, so planning around these factors ensures a smooth experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include entrance to Buckingham Palace?
No, the tour does not include entry into Buckingham Palace’s interior, but it provides excellent exterior views and a close-up of the palace during the guard change.

Can I join the tour if I don’t have a lot of time?
Yes, the tour’s duration is flexible from 3 to 7 hours, allowing you to choose a shorter or full-day experience based on your schedule.

Is the Changing of the Guard available every day?
No, the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace occurs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. On other days, the tour visits Horse Guards Parade instead.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking, and respectful dress is encouraged at Westminster Abbey because of its religious significance.

Are there options to extend the tour?
Yes, you can opt for a full-day extension that includes a river cruise and a visit to the Tower of London with the Crown Jewels.

Is the tour suitable for children or strollers?
No, baby strollers are not allowed, and the tour is not designed for travelers with mobility impairments.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If there is heavy rainfall, the Changing of the Guard may be canceled. In such cases, the guide will offer an alternative guided walk in Westminster.

How do I find the meeting point?
The tour departs from outside the Abraham Lincoln Statue in Parliament Square. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in and meet your guide.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English only.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This London guide tour combines history, tradition, and scenic views in an efficient, engaging package. With knowledgeable guides, skip-the-line access, and a focus on the city’s royal landmarks, it offers a practical way to experience London’s most renowned sites in a single outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby