Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard & Thames Boat Ride

Discover the Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard & Thames Boat Ride tour in London, England, offering a captivating 2-hour experience for only $27.41 per person. This tour is highly recommended, with a perfect 5.0-star rating from 24 reviews and 96% of participants suggesting it to others. It is booked on average 59 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among visitors eager to explore royal London and its film locations.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of royal landmarks, film location insights, and a scenic Thames river cruise. Led by an expert guide, the journey covers iconic residences, the famous Burlington Arcade, and St. James’s Park, culminating with a Thames boat ride. The tour’s structure ensures a compact yet comprehensive glimpse of London’s royal and cinematic highlights.

While the tour does not include hotel pickups, its meeting point at Constance Fund fountain of Diana is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. The tour’s duration of approximately 2 hours means it’s perfect for those seeking a quick, informative experience in central London. Its mobile ticket feature makes it easy to join on the day, and its small group size—up to 25 travelers—promotes a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $27.41 per person for a 2-hour guided London experience
• Includes a Thames riverboat ride and visits to royal landmarks and film locations
• Led by knowledgeable guides, praised for their humor and expertise
• Highlights iconic sites such as Buckingham Palace, Downing Street, and St. James’s Park
• Tour covers famous filming locations from “The Crown” and other series
• Flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point at Constance Fund Fountain in Mayfair

The tour begins at the Constance Fund fountain of Diana, located in London SW1A 1RD. This spot is easy to reach via public transport, ensuring a smooth start. The meeting point is well-placed in central London, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

Participants are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt start. The tour ends at the Tower of London, giving easy access for further sightseeing or transportation options. Since no hotel pickup is included, planning arrival time in advance helps maximize the experience.

Exploring Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

The first highlight is the exterior view of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Royal Family. While the tour doesn’t specify a front-line viewing of the Changing of the Guard, it emphasizes the guide’s role in pointing out the palace’s significance and providing background stories.

Throughout the walk, the guide shares insights into royal traditions and history. Especially for fans of British royalty and the series “The Crown,” understanding the context of these residences enhances appreciation. The photo opportunities at this stop are particularly good, offering chances to capture the iconic facade.

Walking Along Mayfair and Burlington Arcade

The tour continues through the upscale Mayfair district, including a stop at Burlington Arcade, known as London’s oldest shopping arcade. The guide highlights its luxurious boutiques and historic significance, adding to the overall sense of opulence connected with royalty.

This part of the walk allows for stunning street views and casual shopping sights, perfect for those interested in London’s high-end retail history. It’s a brief but engaging segment that mixes heritage with the glamour of London’s shopping culture.

Filming Locations from “The Crown” and Other Series

Two stops are dedicated to famous filming sites used in “The Crown” and other popular series. These locations are full of visual references and provide behind-the-scenes stories about their use in TV production. Photographers and series fans will enjoy the opportunity to see these sites up close.

The guide’s commentary enriches the experience by revealing secrets behind filming scenes, making it informative beyond just sightseeing. These stops are a favorite for fans of royal-themed dramas and add a cinematic twist to the tour.

St. James’s Park and Royal City Views

The tour passes through St. James’s Park, offering beautiful views of green spaces and royal residences. The park provides a scenic backdrop for photos of Buckingham Palace from a different angle, and visitors get a sense of the royal estate’s outdoor environment.

A quick walk through St. James’s Park also gives insight into royal outdoor traditions and the history of royal parks, enriching the overall narrative of London’s royal landscape.

Photo Opportunity at a Royal Landmark

One of the tour’s highlight stops is a fabulous photo spot where visitors can capture the essence of royal London. The guide points out key features and helps guests get the best shots of historic buildings and royal residences.

This site is particularly appealing to those wanting memorable photos of their trip, blending storytelling with practical tips for capturing London’s iconic scenery.

Passing by Downing Street and Historic Ceremonial Sites

The tour includes a peek at Downing Street, the residence of the UK Prime Minister, and discusses its historical significance. While the street is usually not open to the public, the guide shares interesting facts about its role in British governance.

The tour also features a stop at the location of royal coronations, weddings, and funerals, emphasizing the ceremonial importance of these sites. These stops deepen understanding of royal traditions and their public displays.

Scenic Thames Boat Ride and Views of London Skyline

The final part of the tour is the scenic Thames boat ride. The ticket is included in the package, and it allows travelers to see London from the river. This perspective offers stunning views of landmarks such as the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and other historic structures.

The boat ride provides a relaxing way to conclude the experience, with informative commentary from the guide about London’s riverside history and notable sights along the Thames.

Practicalities and Logistics

The tour is designed for most travelers, with service animals allowed, and is near public transportation for easy access. It is recommended to arrive 15 minutes early to avoid missing the start, especially since late arrivals cannot be accommodated.

With a maximum group size of 25, the experience remains intimate and engaging, allowing for more interaction with the guide. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Review Highlights and Customer Feedback

The guide, Jack, receives particular praise for his knowledge, humor, and ability to secure the best views. His entertaining storytelling and insights into royal secrets elevate the experience for many.

Despite the high praise, there is at least one negative review citing disorganization and poor customer service. This highlights the importance of arriving on time and being prepared for the small group setting.

Cancellation and Booking Flexibility

The free cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. This provides peace of mind for those uncertain about their plans, making it an accessible option for spontaneous or carefully scheduled visits.

Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard & Thames Boat Ride — A Royal and Film-Lover’s Treasure

This tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into London’s royal life, cinematic history, and scenic beauty. Its affordable price, combined with expert guides and scenic river views, makes it an attractive choice for those looking to maximize their time in London.

While it lacks hotel pickup, the central meeting point and inclusion of a Thames cruise add convenience and variety to the 2-hour experience. It’s particularly suited for fans of “The Crown”, royal enthusiasts, and first-time visitors eager to see London’s iconic sights with insider commentary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the small group size creates a comfortable experience for families.

Does the tour include a view of the Changing of the Guard?
The tour emphasizes viewing the exterior of Buckingham Palace and discussing royal traditions, but it does not specify a front-row view of the Changing of the Guard.

What landmarks are visible from the Thames boat ride?
Guests see London’s iconic skyline, including the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making access straightforward.

Are there any food or drink options included?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks, focusing instead on sightseeing and commentary.

How long does the Thames boat ride last?
The boat ride is part of the 2-hour total tour duration, providing a scenic break at the end.

What is the group size limit?
The tour is limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Does the guide provide insider tips?
Yes, the guide is praised for sharing secrets, trivia, and the best viewing spots.

Is this tour good for history enthusiasts?
Absolutely, the guide covers royal history, filming locations, and ceremonial sites, appealing to history buffs.

This Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard & Thames Boat Ride tour balances royal sightseeing, film location insights, and scenic river views—all at an accessible price. Its expert guide, informative stops, and relaxing boat cruise make it a compelling choice for a compact yet comprehensive London experience.