London: Changing of the Guard & Westminster Abbey

Explore London’s Most Famous Landmarks in a Compact 5-Hour Tour

This London: Changing of the Guard & Westminster Abbey tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into England’s royal and religious history, all within five hours. Priced at $91.60 per person, it combines sightseeing, tradition, and culture in a concise package perfect for travelers eager to see iconic sites without spending a full day on the road.

The tour departs from the Ritz London, a central and convenient location, and includes a small group setting with a fun local guide. It is suitable for those who appreciate detailed commentary, as guides are known for their expertise and engaging storytelling. The experience is wheelchair accessible and features skip-the-line tickets to Westminster Abbey, making it a practical choice even during busy periods.

While the tour covers plenty of ground, it’s important to note that the Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs only on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10am. You’ll also visit over 20 of London’s top sights, including Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, and more, finishing with a two-hour inside visit to Westminster Abbey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes skip-the-line access to Westminster Abbey with an audio guide
• Visits Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Parliament Square
• Covers over 20 famous London sights in just five hours
• Guided walk led by a knowledgeable local guide
• Tour departs from the Ritz London near Green Park Underground station
• Suitable for wheelchair users and accessible to most travelers

Starting Point at the Ritz London for a Central Beginning

The tour begins outside the Ritz London, situated at 155 Piccadilly. The meeting point is easy to find, next to two red telephone boxes and souvenir stands, directly underneath a Ritz sign. Guests are advised to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a prompt start. The nearest tube station is Green Park Underground, with the exit on the left side as you leave the station.

This central starting location makes it simple to combine this tour with other London activities or accommodations. The convenience of the meeting point adds to the overall value, eliminating the need for complicated transportation arrangements.

Watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

One of the tour’s highlights is the viewing of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. This British tradition involves a formal ceremony where the new guard takes over from the previous one in their ceremonial uniforms. It’s a colorful and precise display of British pageantry.

The guided walk around Buckingham Palace includes a photo stop and about an hour of sightseeing, giving plenty of opportunities to observe and photograph the spectacle. Since the ceremony occurs only on specific days (Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun at 10am), travelers should plan accordingly. Guides provide context and background, helping visitors appreciate the significance of the event.

Walking Past Iconic Sites Like Trafalgar Square and Horse Guards Parade

Following Buckingham Palace, the tour continues through Trafalgar Square, where Nelson’s Column and surrounding statues provide classic London scenery. The guide leads a 20-minute stop for photos and narration.

Next, a walk takes visitors past Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall, a grand open space with historic military buildings and mounted guards. This 20-minute stop offers further photo opportunities and insight into Britain’s military traditions.

The route then moves toward 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence, where the guide discusses the building’s history and significance. A 30-minute exploration here allows for an up-close look at this political landmark.

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Discovering Parliament Square and Its Surroundings

The tour includes a 50-minute walk around Parliament Square, home to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. While these landmarks are mostly admired from outside, the guide shares stories about their history and role in British governance.

A key stop here is the Queen Victoria Fountain, adding a touch of history and beauty to the route. The walk offers a rundown of Westminster’s political and royal landscape, making it a highlight for those interested in London’s governmental heart.

Inside Westminster Abbey: History, Architecture, and Art

The highlight of the tour is a two-hour visit inside Westminster Abbey, one of the world’s most renowned churches. Guests enjoy skip-the-line entry and an audio guide that helps unpack the Abbey’s rich history and impressive architecture.

Since the Abbey hosts royal ceremonies, coronations, and memorials, this visit offers a deep dive into Britain’s monarchy and religious traditions. Guides share stories about notable figures buried or commemorated there, making it a compelling experience for history enthusiasts.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The 5-hour tour includes entry tickets with skip-the-line access, saving time during busy periods. The guided walking tour lasts approximately 3 hours, covering key landmarks and neighborhoods before concluding at Westminster Abbey.

The small group size fosters a more personalized experience, allowing for questions and deeper engagement. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors. Since food and beverages are not included, travelers might want to bring water or plan for a meal after the tour.

Important Timing and Scheduling Considerations

The Changing of the Guard ceremony is only scheduled at 10am on certain days, so travelers should check the availability for their preferred date. As the schedule is set by the British Army and can change without notice, flexibility is advisable.

The tour starts at 10am, and guests are encouraged to arrive early. Since the tour ends back at the Ritz Hotel, it’s easy to continue exploring London afterward or head to other attractions nearby.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This London sightseeing tour suits travelers interested in royal traditions, historic landmarks, and architecture. The small group size and knowledgeable guides are perfect for those who like personal attention and detailed stories. It’s ideal for visitors who want a rundown of Westminster and Buckingham Palace in a manageable timeframe.

The tour’s wheelchair accessibility makes it inclusive for all mobility levels. Since it covers both outdoor sights and an inside visit to Westminster Abbey, it balances walking and standing with opportunities for rest and reflection.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

At $91.60, this tour offers a good value for its inclusion of skip-the-line tickets, comprehensive sightseeing, and expert guides. The carefully curated stops ensure visitors get a thorough overview of London’s political and royal sites without an overly long day.

While the Changing of the Guard is only on select days, the rest of the itinerary remains engaging and informative. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it more personal and interactive. Travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and a lively guide will find this tour rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Changing of the Guard included in the tour price?
The tour includes viewing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, which occurs only on Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun at 10am. The actual ceremony is outside the tour, but the guide helps you observe it.

How long do stops at each site last?
Stops at Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square are approximately an hour and 20 minutes, respectively. The walk around Parliament Square lasts about 50 minutes, with other stops ranging from 20 to 30 minutes.

Is Westminster Abbey included in the ticket?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide are included for the inside visit to Westminster Abbey which lasts about 2 hours.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a guided walk through central London. The tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is provided by Top Sights Tours LLC, known for their engaging guided experiences in London.

This tour combines the best of London’s royal, political, and religious landmarks into a single, well-organized package. It’s suited for those eager to learn about London’s history while enjoying the convenience of skip-the-line access and expert guides.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby