Wonderful Westminster Tour & Visit Windsor Castle

The Wonderful Westminster Tour & Visit Windsor Castle offers a compelling combination for those eager to explore London’s most famous landmarks and the regal splendor of Windsor. Priced at $134.13 per person, this 6-hour experience begins in the heart of London with a small-group walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. The tour includes visits to Buckingham Palace, Parliament Square, and Westminster Abbey, while also providing entry tickets to Windsor Castle, one of the UK’s most storied royal residences.

While the tour highlights the chance to see The Changing of the Guard on select days and learn about London’s royal and political history, it’s important to note that transport to Windsor is not included—guests need to arrange their own train tickets, which cost around £10. This aspect has received mixed reviews, but overall, it remains a popular choice for those wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing with an emphasis on history, architecture, and royal traditions.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate guided insights, are comfortable with independent transport arrangements, and wish to visit two top attractions in one day. It’s an efficient way to enjoy London’s splendors without rushing through, but expect some logistical planning for the Windsor portion.

Key Points

• Includes guided walking tour through Westminster with highlights like Buckingham Palace and Parliament Square
• Entry ticket to Windsor Castle is included, with about 3 hours to explore the castle grounds
• Transport to Windsor is not included; guests must arrange their own train journey (~£10)
• Guide provides stories and insights, with some guides praised for their wit and knowledge
• Tour duration is approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am from The Ritz London
• Limited transportation information can be a drawback, so planning ahead is recommended

Starting Point at The Ritz London for the Westminster Tour

The tour begins at The Ritz London, 150 Piccadilly, a central location that’s accessible via public transportation. The guide meets guests at 10:00 am, and from there, the small group embarks on a walk through some of London’s most famous sights. The guided walk lasts about 2 hours, showcasing key landmarks while providing fascinating commentary.

Exploring Buckingham Palace and the Royal Parks

The walk takes you through Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the King. The guide shares stories about Royal Family history and points out notable features of the palace exterior. On certain days, guests get the chance to watch the Changing of the Guard at 10 am, a highlight that many find captivating.

After the palace visit, the group strolls along the Royal Mews, soaking in views of royal architecture. This part of the tour offers a solid introduction to Royal London, blending scenic parks with historic buildings.

Visiting Trafalgar Square and Nelson’s Column

Next, the tour moves to Trafalgar Square, one of London’s most recognizable public spaces. Here, Nelson’s Column, the fountains, and the National Gallery come into view. The guide explains the significance of each monument and the square’s role as a hub of public life and political demonstrations.

Guests have about 20 minutes at this stop, perfect for photographs and a quick sense of the city’s vibrancy. The area is easily accessible, and there’s no admission fee for this part of the tour.

Horse Guards Parade and St. James Park

From Trafalgar Square, the group continues to Horse Guards Parade near St. James’s Park, notable for its famous arch and iconic clock. This spot offers a great photo opportunity and insight into British ceremonial traditions.

Next, the guide leads a walk through St. James Park, one of London’s royal parks, before reaching Whitehall, the heart of the UK government. The stops here include Downing Street, where British Prime Ministers have resided since 1735, adding a political dimension to the tour.

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben Close-Up

At Parliament Square, the group gets an up-close look at the Palace of Westminster, home to the Houses of Parliament. The iconic Big Ben clock tower is visible from many vantage points, and the guide explains its history and architecture.

This stop lasts around 40 minutes, giving ample time to appreciate the grandeur of London’s political seat and photograph the historic buildings. The London Eye and Churchill Statue are also visible from this area, blending modern attractions with historic sites.

Westminster Abbey’s Architectural Grandeur

A short walk from Parliament Square brings the group to Westminster Abbey, a church with over 1000 years of history. The guide discusses its role as the coronation church for British monarchs and highlights its stunning Gothic architecture.

Guests spend about 20 minutes exploring the exterior and learning key facts about its historical significance. Inside visits are not included in the tour, but the exterior view provides plenty of photo opportunities.

Transition to Windsor: Planning and Logistics

After the guided walk, guests depart from Windsor to visit Windsor Castle, included in the ticket price. The castle is around an hour away by train; guests need to purchase their own train tickets (~£10). The audio guide provided enhances the visit, allowing for independent exploration of the castle grounds.

The transfer from Westminster to Windsor is not arranged by the tour provider, which has led to some mixed reviews. Travelers need to plan ahead to ensure timely arrival at Windsor Castle, especially if they wish to maximize their three hours inside the grounds.

Windsor Castle: A Royal Fortress and Residence

With the ticket included, visitors have approximately 3 hours to explore Windsor Castle and its grounds. The castle’s impressive towers, state apartments, and historic grounds are open for sightseeing. The audio guide provides detailed background on the castle’s history, royal residents, and architectural features.

This part of the tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at British royalty, with the chance to see some of the most historic royal rooms and learn about their significance. The castle’s grounds are also notable for their picturesque gardens and scenic views.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Timings

The tour starts at 10:00 am at The Ritz London, with the guided walk lasting approximately 2 hours. The visit to Windsor is at the end of the day, with no transportation provided, so guests should plan their train journey accordingly.

The guide provides tickets and directions for Windsor Castle at the end of the Westminster tour, but guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements. The tour concludes in Windsor, at Windsor SL4 1NJ.

Guide and Group Size

This tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. While some guides are praised for their witty storytelling and in-depth knowledge, experiences with guides vary based on individual reviews. Giles, Will, Mike, and Tim are some of the guides noted for their enthusiasm and expertise.

Value and Limitations

At $134.13 per person, the tour provides significant value by combining a guided sightseeing walk with entry into Windsor Castle. However, the lack of included transportation to Windsor can complicate planning for some guests, as evidenced by mixed reviews.

Food and drinks are not included, so guests should bring some snacks or a packed lunch. The tour is well-suited for those who enjoy guided storytelling and are comfortable with independent transport arrangements. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, history-rich experience with the convenience of seeing two major sites in one day.

Final Considerations for Potential Participants

While the tour offers a thorough introduction to Westminster’s most famous landmarks and the opportunity to explore Windsor Castle, it requires some planning and flexibility. The guided walk provides a solid overview of royal and political landmarks, but guests should be prepared for logistical challenges related to transport to Windsor.

This tour balances guided insights with free exploration time at Windsor, making it a versatile option for history enthusiasts and royal fans alike. The small-group format ensures more personalized attention, especially with guides praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation between London and Windsor?
No, the tour does not include transportation. Guests must arrange their own train tickets (~£10), departing from a nearby station after the Westminster portion.

Is the changing of the guard included?
Yes, on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10 am, guests can watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace if the schedule aligns. The guide will try to find a good viewing spot.

How long do I have at Windsor Castle?
Guests have approximately 3 hours to explore Windsor Castle grounds using the included audio guide.

What landmarks are covered during the Westminster walking tour?
Stops include Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall, Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.

Is this tour suitable for all physical abilities?
The tour involves walking through central London streets and sites, which may include some uneven surfaces. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate walking.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is recommended, especially for the Windsor visit.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Many reviews praise guides like Will and Tim for their informative and engaging storytelling. Guide personalities can vary, but overall, they enhance the experience.

What is the group size limit?
The group is capped at 15 travelers for a more intimate experience.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is done in advance, typically about 63 days before the preferred date, through the provided platform. Confirmations are received immediately upon booking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, some snacks, and a sense of curiosity. Make sure to plan your transport to Windsor separately to avoid missing the castle tour.

This Wonderful Westminster Tour & Visit Windsor Castle provides a well-rounded day of sightseeing, balancing guided commentary with free time for exploration. It’s a practical choice for those eager to see London’s iconic royal and political sites plus the historic grandeur of Windsor Castle.