Buckingham Palace & Crown Jewels of London Tour with River Cruise

Experience the Best of London’s Royal and Historic Landmarks in One Day

This 8-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive look at some of London’s most celebrated sites, all for $232.59 per person. It includes admission tickets to Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London, plus a river cruise along the Thames. The tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and fans of the British royal family, as it combines impressive architecture, royal history, and scenic views. With a small group size of up to 53 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience, guided by knowledgeable experts and supported by modern amenities like Wi-Fi and USB charging.

While the tour’s pacing allows plenty of time for photos and city atmosphere, it involves some walking and a security check at Buckingham Palace. The river cruise can be optional, offering flexibility for those who prefer to explore the Tower of London independently later. This tour balances magnificent sights, expert guides, and convenience, making it a well-rounded way to see London’s highlights in a single day.

Key Points

• Includes admission to Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London
• River cruise from Tower Pier to Westminster Pier is included, with an option to reschedule
• The tour starts at 9:15 am at The King’s Gallery and ends around 5:30 pm at Westminster Pier
• Small group size (max 53) ensures a comfortable experience with personalized attention
• Features modern coach amenities like free Wi-Fi and USB ports
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness due to walking and some stairs at the Tower of London

Starting Point and Logistics of the Tour

The tour departs promptly at 9:15 am from The King’s Gallery outside Buckingham Palace. This central location is near public transportation, making it easy to reach. The tour concludes at Westminster Pier around 5:30 pm, after a full day of sightseeing.

Travelers should be prepared for a 10-15 minute walk between Buckingham Palace and the tour start point, as transfer between the palace and Vauxhall Bridge Road is not provided. The tour operates rain or shine, and security checks at Buckingham Palace are similar to airport security, with restrictions on large bags.

Visiting Buckingham Palace and Its State Rooms

The tour begins with a visit to Buckingham Palace, which serves as the official residence of the British royal family. During the summer months, visitors can explore 19 State Rooms filled with treasures like masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck, along with sculptures, porcelain, and fine furniture. Since the palace is a working residence, tours are limited to these State Rooms, which are used for ceremonial and official events.

The admission ticket is included, and security checks are in place, so travelers are advised to avoid large bags. Having two hours at Buckingham Palace allows plenty of time to appreciate the grandeur and take photos.

Exploring St. Paul’s Cathedral and Its Architectural Marvels

Next, the tour visits St. Paul’s Cathedral, an iconic symbol of London designed by Sir Christopher Wren. It took 35 years to build between 1675 and 1710, following the destruction of the original cathedral in the Great Fire of London. The large domed structure was the tallest building in London until the 1960s.

Inside, visitors find seven chapels, statues, and priceless art, along with Europe’s largest crypt. The admission ticket is free, but the guide provides detailed commentary, making this stop especially enriching. The two-hour visit offers time to admire the architectural details and religious artifacts.

Discovering the Tower of London’s Rich and Dark Past

The Tower of London is a key highlight, with a history spanning nearly 1,000 years. Built by William the Conqueror, it has served as a fortress, royal residence, and notorious prison. It’s been the site of imprisonments, executions, and spies’ interrogations.

Today, the Tower houses the Crown Jewels Collection, including the Star of Africa, the largest cut diamond in the world, along with crowns, robes, and ceremonial regalia. The two-hour self-guided or guided exploration allows visitors to see the White Tower, learn about its bloody history, and view the jewel collection. The Tower is not wheelchair accessible, and visitors should be prepared for some stairs.

Thames River Cruise: Scenic Views of London’s Waterfront

After the Tower, the tour features a 45-minute river cruise from Tower Pier to Westminster Pier, offering unique perspectives of London’s famous skyline. The cruise provides a refreshing break from walking and showcases landmarks along the waterfront, such as the Houses of Parliament and London Eye.

This included cruise is a flexible part of the tour; travelers can choose to reschedule or skip the cruise and finish the tour at the Tower of London, depending on their preference and cruise ticket validity.

The Afternoon Tour: St. Paul’s, Tower of London, and the River Cruise

The afternoon portion features a guided exploration of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London, led by an expert guide who shares detailed stories and background. The services of a guest services assistant are available during the morning, but the guide takes over in the afternoon, ensuring a smooth experience.

For those wishing to spend more time at specific sites, the tour provides flexibility to finish at the Tower of London instead of Westminster Pier, especially if the river cruise schedule doesn’t align with personal preferences.

Modern Comforts and Practical Details

The tour’s coach is equipped with free Wi-Fi and USB ports, making travel between sites comfortable and connected. The mobile ticket system simplifies entry, and audio headsets are provided for clear narration amid busy crowds.

While lunch is not included, there are ample opportunities for refreshments during the day. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some stairs—especially at the Tower of London. The moderate physical activity level is manageable for most, but those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits history buffs, royal enthusiasts, and first-time visitors eager to see London’s highlights in a single day. It offers an immersive experience with expert guides and stunning views, ideal for those comfortable with walking and standing for extended periods. Its small group size enhances personalization, but travelers should be prepared for security checks and some stairs at the Tower.

Final Thoughts on the Buckingham Palace & Crown Jewels Tour

Combining royal residences, architectural marvels, and scenic river views, this tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of London. The admission tickets and included river cruise add value, while the expert guides enrich the experience with detailed stories.

The afternoon flexibility allows customization based on individual interests, making it suitable for various travelers. On the downside, limited accessibility at some sites and the need for moderate physical activity mean it’s best suited for those in decent health and mobility.

This well-organized tour offers a balanced mix of history, architecture, and scenic beauty, making it a strong option for a full-day London adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The admission tickets to Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and the river cruise are included, along with audio headsets, modern coach, Wi-Fi, and USB charging.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at The King’s Gallery in Buckingham Palace at 9:15 am and finishes around 5:30 pm at Westminster Pier.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are opportunities to purchase food and drinks during the day.

Can I customize the schedule?
Yes, you can choose to finish at the Tower of London instead of Westminster Pier and reschedule the river cruise depending on ticket validity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking and stairs, especially at the Tower of London. Be prepared for weather changes.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Visitors should be moderately physically fit; stairs at the Tower of London are not wheelchair accessible.

How long is each site visit?
Each major site—Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London—gets about two hours, providing ample time for exploration.

Are there any restrictions at Buckingham Palace?
Yes, security checks are similar to airport procedures, and large bags are not permitted inside.

What’s the best way to book this tour?
Booking at least 110 days in advance is recommended, as this tour is popular and sells out quickly.