London: Kensington Palace Tour, Guard Change & Afternoon Tea

Explore Royal London with Kensington Palace, Guard Change, and Afternoon Tea

This 5.5-hour tour in London offers a mix of iconic royal sights, British traditions, and scenic strolls through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. For $146.82 per person, you get priority access to Kensington Palace, a front-row view of the Changing of the Guard, and a delicious afternoon tea at the Orangery. The tour is designed for those eager to experience royal history without the hassle of planning logistics, as all arrangements are handled for you.

While the tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into London’s royal heritage, it’s worth noting that it’s primarily a walking experience and not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or strollers. The self-guided exploration of Kensington Palace with an audio guide offers flexibility, and the guide’s storytelling helps bring the royal stories to life. This tour suits visitors interested in British tradition, history, and elegant experiences, especially those who enjoy combining sightseeing with a refined tea break.

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Key Points

• Pre-reserved tickets to Kensington Palace skip long lines and provide early access.
• Watch the spectacular Changing of the Guard from an ideal vantage point, avoiding the crowds in front of Buckingham Palace.
• Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at the Orangery, with scones, sandwiches, and refreshments in a charming setting.
• Explore Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, seeing landmarks like the Diana Memorial Fountain and the Albert Memorial.
• The self-guided tour of Kensington Palace includes an audio guide, allowing you to imagine the life of royalty at your own pace.
• The tour involves walking approximately 3 miles, with no arrangements for mobility aids or strollers.

Starting at Guards Memorial for an Uncrowded Guard Change View

The tour departs from Guards Memorial on Horse Guards Rd, where you’ll arrive 15 minutes early to meet your guide holding a green Walks sign. This strategic starting point offers a better view of the Changing of the Guard compared to the crowded front of Buckingham Palace. The guide leads you to an optimal position, where you can see the full spectacle, including the band and the arrival of the New Guard.

It’s important to note that Changing of the Guard can sometimes be canceled, especially in rainy weather, with notifications possibly coming as late as 10:45 AM on the day. However, even if canceled, the tour continues with an alternative plan, ensuring a full day of royal sights.

Viewing the Changing of the Guard Away from the Crowds

Unlike the typical crowd-packed scenes in front of Buckingham Palace, this tour emphasizes a more comfortable vantage point for witnessing the Guard Change. Your guide explains the significance of this British tradition while positioning you to see the ceremony clearly. The band’s music and precise movements are highlights, making it a memorable moment without the jostling of larger crowds.

This approach allows you to fully appreciate the pageantry and history behind this royal ceremony, often missed during DIY visits due to the crowds and limited views.

Strolling Through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

Following the Guard Change, the tour takes you on a leisurely walk through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. These two lush green spaces are home to iconic landmarks and provide a scenic backdrop to the day.

You’ll see the Diana Memorial Fountain, a peaceful spot dedicated to Princess Diana, and the Albert Memorial, a grand monument to Queen Victoria’s husband. The guide shares engaging stories about the royal connections to these parks and their significance in London’s cultural landscape. The walk is relaxed, ideal for enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery while learning about London’s royal history.

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Kensington Palace: A Self-Guided Royal Residence

Your visit to Kensington Palace is a highlight of this tour. Before exploring independently, you indulge in afternoon tea at the Orangery, a historic and elegant setting. The tea includes scones, sandwiches, and other classic treats, all served in a beautiful baroque-style room.

After tea, you have self-guided access to the palace, equipped with an audio guide to help you discover Queen Victoria’s early life and the palace’s role as a royal home. The flexibility of this setup allows you to spend as much time as you like exploring the state rooms and royal exhibitions at your own pace.

The Afternoon Tea Experience at the Orangery

The afternoon tea at the Kensington Palace Orangery is a refined and calming experience. While reviews suggest the tea is delicious, some mention it is average, but most appreciate the setting’s charm and elegance. The scones and sandwiches are served in a refined atmosphere that complements the historic ambiance of the palace.

This part of the tour offers a moment of relaxation and indulgence amidst a busy day of sightseeing, perfect for those who enjoy British traditions and a touch of luxury.

Exploring Kensington Palace with an Audio Guide

After tea, the self-guided tour of Kensington Palace allows you to explore at your own pace. The audio guide provides insights into the palace’s history, including stories about Queen Victoria’s early years. The state rooms are a highlight, giving a glimpse of royal life through beautifully preserved interiors.

Guests can imagine what life was like for royalty in these historic surroundings, as the audio provides context and historical anecdotes. The flexibility to move through the palace at your own speed makes this experience different from standard guided tours, offering more personal reflection time.

Logistics and Meeting Details

The tour starts at Guards Memorial on Horse Guards Rd and ends back at the same location, simplifying transportation logistics. It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt start. The tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so planning your transportation to and from the meeting point is necessary.

It’s a walking tour covering approximately 3 miles, so comfortable footwear is advised. The tour is not suitable for guests with mobility challenges, as strollers and wheelchairs are not accommodated. Bag searches at Kensington Palace are possible for security reasons, so travelers should pack accordingly.

Value for Money and Booking Options

Priced at $146.82 per person, this tour offers a blend of priority access to Kensington Palace, a traditional afternoon tea, and expert storytelling. The skip-the-line tickets save time, and the self-guided format provides flexibility.

Guests can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it convenient for flexible travel plans. The tour is ideal for those who appreciate a curated experience that handles logistics and combines sightseeing with a touch of elegance.

Final Thoughts: A Refined Royal Day in London

This London tour offers a well-rounded experience for enthusiasts of royalty, British traditions, and scenic parks. The front-row view of the Changing of the Guard and afternoon tea at the Orangery are standout features that elevate the day beyond simple sightseeing.

While the walking component and lack of accessibility options may limit some guests, the tour’s organized logistics and expert storytelling make it a valuable choice for those seeking an elegant, hassle-free visit to Kensington Palace and its surroundings.

For visitors eager to combine royal history with a classic British tea experience in a relaxed setting, this tour delivers a memorable and stylish day in London.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility impairments?
No, the tour involves walking approximately 3 miles and is not suitable for guests with mobility challenges, wheelchairs, or strollers.

Can I join the tour without paying upfront?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What happens if the Changing of the Guard is canceled?
If weather conditions or other factors lead to cancellation, the tour proceeds with an alternative itinerary, ensuring you still experience key sights.

Does the tour include transportation between locations?
No, the tour begins and ends at Guards Memorial on Horse Guards Rd. Guests are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting point.

How long do I have inside Kensington Palace?
The tour includes a self-guided exploration with an audio guide, allowing you to spend as much time as you wish within the palace’s accessible areas.

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