London: Westminster Private Walking Tour & London Eye

Explore the heart of London with this private Westminster walking tour combined with a ride on the London Eye. For $387.93 per group up to 2, this experience offers a 5-hour journey through iconic landmarks, guided by a friendly local expert. Starting outside the Ritz London, the tour takes you through historic sites like Buckingham Palace, Whitehall, and Westminster Abbey, before concluding at the London Eye with pre-booked tickets that skip the lines. This package is ideal for those wanting an intimate, personalized experience of London’s most famous sights, paired with spectacular city views from above.

While the tour duration is five hours, the actual walking tour lasts around three hours**, with ample time left for the London Eye experience. The inclusion of a private guide ensures personalized attention, and pre-booked tickets for the London Eye allow you to avoid long waits. Be aware that the Changing of the Guard ceremony is scheduled only on certain days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10 am), so timing your visit accordingly will maximize your chances to witness this traditional spectacle.

Key Points

• Private 3-hour walking tour guides you through London’s most famous landmarks with a friendly local guide.
• The tour includes visiting Buckingham Palace, Whitehall, Westminster Abbey, and more, with photo stops at key points.
• Pre-booked tickets are included for the London Eye, offering stunning panoramic views of the city.
• The tour begins at The Ritz London and ends back at the same meeting point, with options to explore further on your own.
• Flexible booking allows canceling up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for private groups seeking a personalized experience.

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Starting Point at The Ritz London and Its Significance

The tour begins outside The Ritz London, located on Piccadilly, next to iconic red telephone boxes and souvenir stands. This central location is easy to access and sets a luxurious tone for the experience. Meeting here just before the tour starts makes it simple to join the group and begin exploring without hassle. The starting point’s prominent position in Mayfair provides easy access from various parts of the city.

The meeting point is clearly marked, and since the tour ends back at the start, your day can easily continue with additional sightseeing or dining. The convenience of a central location adds to the overall value, especially for visitors staying nearby or arriving via tube.

The 3-Hour Private Walking Tour Through Westminster’s Icons

The guided walk covers roughly three hours, taking you past London’s most recognizable sights. The tour begins with a photo stop at Buckingham Palace, where you might catch the Changing of the Guard on scheduled days. This ceremony is for the 10 am tour on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, weather permitting.

From there, the guide leads you through Trafalgar Square, a bustling hub of art and history, then around Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall, with additional photo opportunities. The group then moves to 10 Downing Street, famous as the Prime Minister’s residence, offering another chance for memorable photos.

Next, the tour proceeds to Parliament Square, where you’ll see the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, along with the Palace of Westminster. The guide provides insights while you enjoy 40 minutes of sightseeing at this iconic location. Walking past these landmarks offers a close-up look at London’s political and royal heritage.

Finally, the tour visits Westminster Abbey for a 20-minute guided tour. Although the Abbey is not included for interior visits, the exterior and surroundings are rich with history, making this a meaningful stop. The entire walking experience emphasizes the grandeur and stories behind these historic sites.

Visiting Westminster Abbey and Its Surroundings

Westminster Abbey is one of London’s most celebrated religious buildings, and during the tour, you enjoy a guided outdoor tour of its impressive facade and surroundings. While the ticket for the Abbey’s interior is not included, the exterior visit provides insight into its architectural significance and role in British history.

The guide shares stories about the Abbey’s role in royal coronations, weddings, and burials, making the outdoor visit engaging. Nearby, the guide points out Parliament Square and the Houses of Parliament, offering a sense of the political heartbeat of the UK. This stop is particularly interesting for history and architecture enthusiasts eager to understand London’s layered past.

The Walk Through Buckingham Palace and Whitehall

A key highlight is the photo stop at Buckingham Palace, where travelers often photograph the magnificent façade. Depending on the day and time, the Changing of the Guard may be witnessed, adding a ceremonial touch to the visit. This event is scheduled only on selected days, so planning accordingly enhances the experience.

Following the palace, the tour continues through Whitehall, home to many government buildings, and includes visits to Horse Guards Parade and 10 Downing Street. Although the famous black door at Downing Street isn’t accessible, its exterior remains an iconic image. These stops encapsulate London’s royal and political centers, with the guide enriching the walk with historical anecdotes.

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The 40-Minute Visit to Parliament Square and Big Ben

Spending around 40 minutes at Parliament Square allows plenty of time for photos and commentary. The square is surrounded by historic structures, including the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. The guide explains the significance of these landmarks and their roles in British governance.

This stop offers a prime opportunity to grasp the scale and grandeur of London’s political architecture. The proximity of the Palace of Westminster adds to the feeling of being in the political heart of the UK. The outdoor experience makes for excellent photo moments, especially with a knowledgeable guide to share insights.

Westminster Abbey Exterior Tour and Its Significance

The outdoor visit to Westminster Abbey emphasizes its architectural beauty and historical importance. The guide points out key features, such as the intricate facade and the Abbey’s role in notable royal events. Although interior access isn’t included, the exterior remains awe-inspiring and provides context for the building’s significance.

This stop complements the tour’s focus on London’s royal and religious traditions, providing a well-rounded perspective without the need for an interior ticket. The guide’s commentary brings history to life, making the exterior visit quite informative.

The Tour’s End and The London Eye Experience

After the walking tour, travelers are led to The London Eye for a two-hour visit with pre-booked tickets included in the package. This skip-the-line access is a valuable feature, enabling a hassle-free experience. The London Eye offers spectacular panoramic views of London, especially on clear days.

The ride takes around 30 minutes, providing a comprehensive view of landmarks like the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and more. The included tickets mean no waiting in queues, and the experience is suitable for all ages. The combination of the walking tour and the Eye ensures a well-rounded exploration of London’s sights from ground level and above.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Accessibility, and Booking

The meeting point is clearly marked outside The Ritz London, and the tour ends back at this location, making logistics straightforward. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring it accommodates visitors with mobility challenges.

Booking is flexible, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reserve now and pay later feature allows travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment, offering peace of mind. Participants should bring comfortable shoes, an umbrella, camera, and snacks as food and drinks are not included.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private tour is perfect for those who want a personalized exploration of London’s most famous sites, guided by a friendly local. It suits visitors interested in history, architecture, and British tradition. The inclusion of the London Eye makes it ideal for travelers wanting a view from above without the hassle of separate ticket purchases.

It’s especially recommended for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience with flexible scheduling and the comfort of a private guide. Those with mobility needs will appreciate the wheelchair accessibility. However, visitors should note that the Changing of the Guard is only visible on certain days, so planning accordingly enhances the experience.

London: Westminster Private Walking Tour & London Eye — Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Westminster’s most famous landmarks paired with breathtaking city views from the London Eye. The private guide ensures a personal touch and in-depth storytelling, making the walk both informative and engaging. The pre-booked tickets for the Eye save time and reduce stress during sightseeing.

While the interior visits to Westminster Abbey are not included, the exterior tour provides plenty of insights into this iconic site. The duration of five hours balances walking, sightseeing, and the Eye experience, making it a convenient option for a half-day adventure.

This experience is best suited for those wanting a detailed, private exploration of Westminster combined with the thrill of London’s skyline. It offers good value for the personalized guide and skip-the-line tickets but requires some planning around the Changing of the Guard schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. Children who enjoy sightseeing and guided walks will also find it engaging, especially with the highlight of the London Eye for panoramic views.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. The flexible booking options include reserve now and pay later.

Are tickets for the London Eye included?
Yes, the tour includes pre-booked tickets for the London Eye, allowing skip-the-line access and saving time during your visit.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, an umbrella, a camera, and food and drinks, as these are not included in the tour.

When does the Changing of the Guard take place?
The ceremony is scheduled for 10 am on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. It is subject to weather conditions and may be canceled if the weather is extreme.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is outside The Ritz London, located on Piccadilly, next to two red telephone boxes and souvenir stands. The tour ends at the same location.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
According to the information, the tour is conducted in English.

How long does the London Eye ride last?
The ride takes approximately 30 minutes, offering sweeping views of London’s skyline.

What is the total duration of the activity?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including the 3-hour walking tour and 2-hour London Eye visit.

Who is the provider of this experience?
The activity is provided by Top Sights Tours LLC.

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