Exploring London’s royal and historic sites becomes effortless with the London: Big Ben, Westminster Abbey & Changing of Guard Tour. Priced at $87.55 per person and lasting 2.5 hours, this guided experience takes you through some of the city’s most renowned landmarks with skip-the-line access and a knowledgeable guide leading the way. Starting from centrally located meeting points, the tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and tradition, making it a great option for visitors who want a comprehensive yet manageable overview of London’s royal and political heart.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on Westminster Abbey and the Changing of the Guard ceremony, both of which are highlights of London’s cultural scene. The tour is particularly appealing for those interested in British monarchy, architecture, and history, with reviews praising the guides’ expertise and ability to find the best vantage points. While the tour includes many outdoor stops and walking, it should be noted that heavy rain can affect the Changing of the Guard, and the tour is less suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Key Points

Visit iconic landmarks: Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and Horse Guards Parade.
Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to pinpoint the best viewing spots.
Skip-the-line access: Entry to Westminster Abbey is included with priority, saving time.
Authentic royal traditions: Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a classic British spectacle.
Flexible options: Private or small groups available, with the tour ending at Buckingham Palace.
Timely and well-paced: The tour covers major highlights efficiently in 2.5 hours.

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Starting Points and Tour Duration

This tour begins at one of two centrally located meeting points: Embankment station or an alternative pick-up spot, depending on your booking option. The entire experience lasts 2.5 hours, with departure times checked based on availability. It ends back at Buckingham Palace, making it convenient for visitors to explore further or continue sightseeing.

The tour is scheduled to include guided walks and photo stops at key locations, with headsets provided to ensure you can hear your guide clearly. The flexible start times allow travelers to fit this experience into their London itinerary comfortably.

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Exploring Westminster Abbey with Skip-the-Line Access

Once inside Westminster Abbey, visitors enjoy skip-the-line entry, which is especially valuable during busy times. The tour guides lead you through 700 years of history, pointing out significant features like the Coronation Chair, which has hosted royal coronations for centuries. You also get to see Poets Corner, where notable literary figures like Chaucer and Dickens are buried, and the tombs of 17 British monarchs.

The guided visit lasts approximately 80 minutes, during which the guide shares stories and facts about the abbey’s role in royal events, from weddings to state funerals. Reviewers appreciate how the guides make the experience engaging and informative, helping visitors connect with the history of this symbolic religious site.

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

One of the main attractions of this tour is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a lively tradition that exemplifies British pomp and pageantry. The tour ensures you are positioned in the best viewing spots for this event, which lasts about one hour.

The Queen’s Foot Guards, dressed in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats, march in precise formations accompanied by a military band. The experienced guides explain the significance of the ceremony while helping you avoid the crowds, with many reviews highlighting the guides’ expertise in timing and vantage points. In cases of heavy rain, the Guard ceremony is replaced with an extended walking tour.

Walking Through Horse Guards Parade to Buckingham Palace

Following the Changing of the Guard, the tour includes a guided walk through Horse Guards Parade, leading to Buckingham Palace. This walk offers a chance to appreciate the grandeur of the royal residence from the outside, with a dedicated photo stop lasting about 15 minutes.

While the palace itself isn’t part of the tour’s interior, the walk provides insight into the royal estate’s architecture and significance. The guides often share interesting facts about the palace’s history and its role as the official London residence of the monarch.

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Final Stop at Buckingham Palace

The tour culminates with a photo stop at Buckingham Palace, giving visitors a chance to capture images of Britain’s most famous royal residence. The 15-minute stop is positioned to maximize photos and soak in the exterior views, before the tour concludes at the palace gates.

Many reviews mention that guides are adept at finding the perfect spots for photos and giving context about the palace’s history and current role in royal events. The tour’s ending point at Buckingham Palace makes it easy to explore the surrounding parks or continue sightseeing in Westminster.

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The Experience of the Guides and Group Size

Guides like Trudy, Adrian, Isabell, and others receive high praise for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to keep the group engaged. Many reviewers note that their guides shared small details, fun facts, and humorous anecdotes, making the tour both educational and entertaining.

The tour offers private and small group options, which are favored by those seeking a more personalized experience. With headsets provided, even in crowded areas, everyone can clearly follow the guide’s commentary, ensuring no one misses out on key insights.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour is suitable for most visitors able to walk comfortably, as it involves outdoor walking and standing. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for possible weather changes, especially rain affecting the Changing of the Guard.

Meeting points are flexible, and the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. No food or beverages are included, so travelers may want to plan meals around the tour schedule.

Value and Booking Flexibility

At $87.55 per person, this tour offers good value for money, considering the skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey and the guided explanations. The booking process includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and options to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for changing travel plans.

The tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, insightful overview of London’s royal landmarks in a short time frame, especially those who appreciate expert guides and the chance to skip long lines.

The Sum Up: A Solid Choice for London Landmark Lovers

This 2.5-hour guided tour combines several of London’s most admired sights—Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Changing of the Guard, and Buckingham Palace—into a manageable and engaging experience. The inclusion of skip-the-line access and expert guides makes it a practical choice for visitors wanting efficient, informative sightseeing.

While not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those seeking interior access to Buckingham Palace, the tour’s focus on outdoor sights and traditions makes it ideal for those interested in royal pageantry, architecture, and history. Many reviews highlight the guides’ warm personalities, deep knowledge, and ability to maximize views and understanding.

This tour provides a balanced mix of history, tradition, and photo opportunities, making it a reliable option for those new to London or looking to hit its highlights with ease.

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London: Big Ben, Westminster Abbey & Changing of Guard Tour

4.4

(245)

“Our guide was very knowledgeable and knew the best vantage points for the best view of changing of the guards. Highly recommended. Skipping the lin…”

— Stuart, April 30, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

What landmarks are included?
You visit Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, witness the Changing of the Guard, walk through Horse Guards Parade, and end at Buckingham Palace.

Is skip-the-line access included?
Yes, the entry ticket for Westminster Abbey is provided with skip-the-line access.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Trudy, Adrian, and Isabell for their expertise, humor, and storytelling.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard?
You are positioned at the best vantage points to see the guards marching in their red tunics and bearskin hats, weather permitting.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since the tour involves walking and standing outdoors.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments. Luggage or large bags are also not permitted.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at a designated meeting point, such as Embankment station, and ends back at Buckingham Palace.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is there an option for private or small groups?
Yes, both private and small group options are offered for a more personalized experience.