British Royalty Walking Tour & Visit the Tower of London

Explore London’s Royal Heritage in Just Half a Day

This British Royalty Walking Tour combines a visit to London’s top royal sites with the iconic Tower of London. Priced at $134.32 per person and lasting approximately 5 hours, it offers a compact yet comprehensive look at the city’s royal history. The tour departs from The Ritz London at 10:00 am and features a small-group format limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Known for its expert local guides, this tour provides a dynamic mix of storytelling, stunning landmarks, and direct access to major royal sites. The included admission tickets to the Tower of London add value, saving time and effort. While the tour covers 20 landmarks in just half a day, visitors should be prepared for a fast-paced walk with some optional viewing, such as the Changing of the Guard on select days.

Key Points

• Half-day guided tour covering 20 royal and historic sites in London
• Includes tickets to the Tower of London, saving money and long queues
• Start at Buckingham Palace and see the Changing of the Guard if scheduled
• Small-group format allows for more interaction and questions
• Tour begins at The Ritz and concludes near the Tower of London with easy transit options
• Ideal for history enthusiasts wanting a quick yet thorough overview of royal London

Starting Point: The Ritz London and the First Glimpse of Buckingham Palace

The tour begins at The Ritz London, located at 150 Piccadilly. From here, it’s just a short walk through the beautiful Green Park to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the King. Your guide shares engaging stories about the Royal Family and the history of the royal residence as you admire the grand facade.

On select days, you’ll catch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, with the guide helping you find the best vantage point. After this spectacle, the group walks along the Royal Mews, soaking in the regal atmosphere of central London’s most iconic palace.

Visiting Trafalgar Square and Nelson’s Column

Next, the tour heads to Trafalgar Square, a vibrant public space home to Nelson’s Column and stunning fountains. The famous buildings surrounding the square, including the National Gallery, form a perfect backdrop for photos. This stop provides a brief but insightful look at London’s cultural heart and its connection to national history.

Traveling from Buckingham Palace, the 20-minute stop at Trafalgar Square is ideal for taking in the lively atmosphere and snapping photos of one of London’s most recognizable landmarks.

Whitehall and Horse Guards Parade: The Heart of British Power

The guide then leads the group to Horse Guards Parade, located on the edge of St. James’s Park. This area is famous for its arch, famous clock, and the ceremonial horse guards. It’s a prime spot for photos, especially of the famous arch, which has been a symbol of royal tradition for centuries.

A short walk takes visitors to Whitehall, home to numerous grand government buildings, including the historic Downing Street. Since 1735, British Prime Ministers have worked from here, adding political significance to this route through London’s government district.

The Majesty of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

At Parliament Square, the tour stops before the Palace of Westminster, known as Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament. The guide points out these architectural icons, which are central to London’s political life. Travelers get a close-up view of Big Ben, and can also enjoy views of the London Eye and Churchill Statue from the vicinity.

This 40-minute stop combines history and architecture, offering plenty of photo opportunities while providing context for the political importance of these structures.

Westminster Abbey: Crowning Royalty for Over a Thousand Years

Next, the group visits Westminster Abbey, a breathtaking Gothic church with over 1,000 years of history. Known as the site for royal coronations, weddings, and burials, it holds a special place in British tradition.

While the tour does not include entry to the Abbey, your guide shares highlights and stories about its royal ceremonies and notable figures. The stop allows for appreciation of its architectural beauty and historical significance.

The Tower of London: A Fortress of Over a Millennium

After completing the walking portion, the tour concludes with a visit to the Tower of London, a historic castle and fortress with a history spanning over 1,000 years. Included in the tour price, the entry tickets grant access to explore the famous medieval fortress, see the Beefeater guards, and learn about the ravens that reside there.

The 2-hour visit provides an in-depth look at London’s royal past, treasures like the Crown Jewels, and stories of royal prisoners and executions. The guide offers insights into the Tower’s long-standing significance as both a royal residence and a symbol of power.

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Timing, and Group Size

The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am at The Ritz London and ends near the Tower of London. Travelers are expected to meet at the designated starting point; hotel pickup or drop-off is not included. The small group size—limited to 15 people—ensures a more personal experience and allows for questions and interaction with the guide.

The entire experience is designed to be fast-paced, covering 20 landmarks in about 5 hours. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for walks and standing. Transport between stops during the tour is on foot, with additional costs (~£5) for reaching the Tower from the tour’s end point.

Experience Highlights and Guide Expertise

Based on reviews, guides like Jason and Connor are praised for their knowledge, humor, and timing. Their storytelling makes the history engaging and accessible, with some reviewers noting that timing of events like the Changing of Guard is well-managed. The small-group format is appreciated, allowing visitors to ask questions freely and enjoy a more tailored experience.

Some comments highlight the timing during significant events, like the Queen’s passing, which added a unique dimension to the visit, showcasing the tour’s flexibility and relevance.

Limitations and Practical Tips

While the tour provides a rundown, it does not include food or drinks—participants should bring their own snacks or water. Umbrellas are recommended in case of rain, as the tour involves outdoor walking. The guide will not accompany visitors into attractions like the Tower of London but will provide tickets and directions for self-guided exploration.

The timing of the tour makes it suitable for those comfortable with a brisk pace and the outdoors. Some stops, like the Changing of the Guard, depend on schedules, so it’s best to check in advance.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This 5-hour guided tour is ideal for those interested in royal London and historical landmarks, especially if you wish to maximize sightseeing in a limited time. The inclusion of entry tickets to the Tower of London offers excellent value, avoiding long lines.

It suits history buffs, culture seekers, and first-time visitors who prefer a structured, guided experience. However, those looking for more detailed exploration of each site may find the pace a bit quick, given the number of stops.

Final Thoughts on the British Royalty Walking Tour & Tower Visit

The combination of a guided walk through royal London and the self-guided visit to the Tower of London provides a well-rounded overview of the city’s regal legacy. The small-group size ensures a more intimate experience, while the expert guides help bring the history alive with stories and context.

While the tour does not include entrance to Westminster Abbey or other sites, the highlighted landmarks and the visiting experience at the Tower make it a valuable, efficient way to see London’s royal sights in half a day.

This tour is especially suited to visitors with limited time who want a structured overview and personalized attention. For those wanting an in-depth exploration of each site, additional visits or separate tours may be recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, on select days, the tour offers a chance to watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, with the guide helping you find the best spot.

Are tickets to the Tower of London included?
Yes, admission tickets to the Tower of London are included in the price, allowing entry and exploration after the walking tour.

Is transportation between stops provided?
No, the tour is on foot, and participants are responsible for their own transport between the end of the tour near the Tower and other destinations if needed. Public transport costs around £5.

What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should wear comfortable shoes, bring snacks and water, and carry an umbrella in case of rain.

Can I ask questions during the tour?
Absolutely—small-group size encourages interaction, and guides are praised for their knowledge and humor in answering questions and sharing stories.