London: Royal Tour with Afternoon Tea at the Rubens

Key Points

• Includes a scenic bus tour of London’s most famous landmarks with expert commentary
• Stops at Westminster and Buckingham Palace, with a guided tour of the palace exterior and changing of the Guard (subject to schedule)
• Relaxing 1-hour afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace, overlooking The Queen’s stables
• Superior coach with Wi-Fi and USB charging ensures comfort and connectivity throughout the 5-hour experience
• Price of $173.76 per person offers a comprehensive introduction to London’s sights paired with a quintessential British treat
• Note: The tour starts at Victoria Coach Station and ends back at the same meeting point; no hotel pickup included

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Introduction to a Classic London Experience

This London: Royal Tour with Afternoon Tea at the Rubens combines a panoramic sightseeing journey with a refined culinary experience. For $173.76 per person, you’re treated to 5 hours of exploring London’s most recognizable landmarks with an expert blue badge guide, followed by a traditional afternoon tea at the elegant Rubens at the Palace Hotel.

The tour is ideal for those seeking a rundown of London’s highlights, paired with a luxurious meal that captures the essence of British hospitality. While the coach provides comfort and modern amenities, keep in mind that admission to attractions is not included, so entry fees at locations like Buckingham Palace are optional and not covered.

Scenic Bus Tour Through Historic London

The journey begins at the Evan Evans kiosk located at Victoria Coach Station. From here, the professional guide leads a scenic drive through London, offering live commentary via personal audio headsets, with Wi-Fi and USB ports onboard for a seamless experience.

Within about an hour, the coach winds through central London, giving a solid introduction to iconic sights such as Westminster Abbey and other major landmarks. This relaxing ride offers plenty of opportunities to view the city’s skyline and architecture, perfect for those wanting a broad overview without extensive walking.

Watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

One of the key moments of the tour is the approximate 1.5-hour guided visit at Buckingham Palace. Here, you will observe the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, which involves soldiers in bearskin caps and scarlet tunics, accompanied by a marching band.

This ceremony is scheduled on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, so it’s wise to verify the date of your visit. The guide shares insightful stories and facts about this tradition, adding context to the pageantry that makes this experience distinctly British.

Tour of Westminster and Iconic Sightseeing

Following Buckingham Palace, the coach stops in Westminster, where travelers can see the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and other notable landmarks. The one-hour scenic ride provides a broad perspective of Westminster’s historic and political significance in London, with the guide highlighting stories behind each site.

While the tour focuses on the exterior views, it offers a meaningful overview of London’s political and religious centers, perfect for those with limited time but wanting to understand the city’s layout and history.

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Visiting The Rubens at the Palace for Afternoon Tea

The final part of the experience takes place at The Rubens at the Palace Hotel, situated close to the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. Here, attendees enjoy about an hour of traditional afternoon tea in the luxurious Palace Lounge.

The afternoon tea includes a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and freshly-baked scones with clotted cream and homemade preserves. Guests can overlook the Royal Mews, adding a regal touch to their dining experience. The service at The Rubens is notably praised, with many highlighting the delicious food and refillable scones and sandwiches.

Practical Details on the Tour Schedule

The tour departs from Victoria Coach Station and ends back at the same location, making it convenient for those staying nearby. The duration is about 5 hours, but the starting times vary depending on availability.

While hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, the meeting point is straightforward to access. The afternoon tea is scheduled on the same day as the sightseeing tour, with some reviews suggesting that timing details could be clearer in advance for better planning.

Included Amenities and Guide Experience

The tour provides several comforts and conveniences, including a blue badge guide renowned for their knowledge and storytelling ability. The coach is equipped with Wi-Fi and USB ports, allowing guests to stay connected and charge devices during the journey.

A personal audio headset ensures everyone can clearly hear the guide’s commentary, enhancing the overall experience. The afternoon tea at The Rubens is also included, making this a well-rounded package that combines sightseeing and culinary tradition.

Limitations and Considerations

A notable limitation is that admission to attractions like Buckingham Palace is not included, so visitors should plan separately if they wish to enter. Plus, the Changing of the Guard ceremony is only available on certain days, which could affect the experience depending on scheduling.

One review highlights confusion about the tour logistics, as the pick-up location listed as Victoria Station was incorrect; the actual departure is from Victoria Coach Station. This miscommunication led to a missed tour for some guests, emphasizing the importance of confirming the meeting point.

Overall Value and Suitability

This tour offers a balanced combination of sightseeing and leisure, perfect for those who prefer a guided overview of London’s most famous sights with a relaxed afternoon meal. The price reflects the quality of the experience, especially with the included comfort amenities and the venue’s prime location.

However, travelers should be aware of the logistical details, like timing for the afternoon tea and the potential need to purchase attraction tickets separately. The high rating of 4.8 out of 5 and positive reviews of the food and guide suggest most guests find it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts on the Royal London & Afternoon Tea Tour

The London: Royal Tour with Afternoon Tea at the Rubens stands out for its combination of scenic sightseeing and a classic British meal. The expert guide offers engaging commentary, making the city’s history accessible and interesting. The luxurious setting of The Rubens elevates the experience, giving a sense of Royal elegance.

While there are some logistical hiccups noted in reviews, the overall experience remains highly rated and offers a gentle, enjoyable introduction to London’s royal landmarks and cultural traditions. It’s especially suitable for visitors with limited time who want a comprehensive, comfortable overview of London’s highlights paired with a memorable afternoon tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include entry to Buckingham Palace?
No, entrance fees are not included. The tour provides exterior views and the Changing of the Guard ceremony if scheduled.

What is the meeting point for this tour?
Guests meet at the Evan Evans kiosk opposite Gate 1 inside Victoria Coach Station.

How long does the afternoon tea last?
The tea at The Rubens takes about 1 hour and includes a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and scones.

Is the coach comfortable and equipped with modern amenities?
Yes, the coach features Wi-Fi and USB charging ports, and a personal audio headset is provided for live commentary.

What landmarks does the bus tour cover?
The tour highlights Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and other central sights, with a focus on exterior views and landmarks.

When can I see the Changing of the Guard?
This ceremony occurs on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, subject to availability.

Is this tour suitable for all mobility levels?
The tour involves some walking and standing, particularly at Buckingham Palace, so guests with mobility concerns should plan accordingly.

Can I customize the timing of the afternoon tea?
The afternoon tea is scheduled to happen on the same day as the tour, but timing details may need confirmation to ensure availability.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those interested in a comfortable, guided overview of London’s royal sights paired with a traditional afternoon tea at a prestigious hotel.

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