Explore London’s Regal Side in Style

The London: Royal Tour with Westminster Abbey & Afternoon Tea offers a full day of regal sights and storytelling for those eager to see the city’s royal and historic treasures. Priced at $173.76 per person, this 6-hour experience combines a panoramic coach tour, a close-up look at Westminster Abbey, and a delightful Afternoon Tea at the Cellarium Café & Terrace.

This tour is perfect for visitors who want a well-rounded glimpse of London’s royal heritage with the comfort of a guided coach ride and a refined culinary break. The tour operates with an expert Blue Badge Guide, renowned for their high-level guiding credentials, ensuring a knowledgeable and engaging experience.

While the itinerary covers key sights and includes a full guided tour, be aware that the tour duration is 3 hours before the independent exploration of Westminster Abbey and the tea ceremony. This setup allows flexibility, but it also means some planning for timing is helpful if you wish to enjoy the entire experience without rushing.

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Key Points

Price and Duration: $173.76 for a 6-hour combined sightseeing and cultural experience.
Expert Guidance: Led by a Blue Badge Guide, providing in-depth stories and insights.
Comprehensive Tour: Includes a panoramic coach ride through Westminster, Changing of the Guard, and access to Westminster Abbey.
Iconic Sights: See Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, No. 10 Downing Street, and more from the coach.
Historic Westminster Abbey: Explore over 1,000 years of history, including royal tombs and the Coronation Chair.
Afternoon Tea: Enjoy delicious full Afternoon Tea at the Cellarium Café & Terrace, either before or after visiting Westminster Abbey.

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Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Victoria Coach Station, where travelers meet the friendly team opposite Gate 1. The day is structured to maximize sightseeing, with the coach providing comfortable, climate-controlled transport and free Wi-Fi. Vox personal headsets ensure clear commentary from the guide, so no detail is missed even in a busy group.

The coach tour covers 1.5 hours around Westminster, showcasing Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Parliament Square, No. 10 Downing Street, the Royal Albert Hall, and the London Eye. Viewpoints and stories highlight London’s regal connections and architectural grandeur.

Witness the Changing of the Guard

One of the tour’s major highlights is watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. This spectacular display of pageantry occurs on select days, and the guide ensures spectators get a great vantage point for photos. The hour-long ceremony captures the ceremonial precision and historical significance that symbolize the monarchy’s ongoing traditions.

The Guard change is a highlight for many, and the guide’s commentary adds context about the tradition, making it more than just a visual spectacle. If the Guard Change is not scheduled, the itinerary includes a visit to Horse Guards Parade instead, maintaining the royal theme.

Discover Westminster Abbey’s Royal Heritage

A 15-minute walk from the coach drop-off leads to Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the setting for every royal coronation since 1066. With an independent entry ticket and a multimedia guide, visitors can explore at their own pace.

Highlights include the Coronation Chair, which has hosted every British monarch’s coronation since the 13th century. The Lady Chapel and Chapter House showcase fan-vaulted ceilings, carved pendants, and ornate decorations. These spaces are the resting places of 15 kings and queens, including Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots, as well as the Princes in the Tower.

The tombs and memorials within Westminster Abbey provide a tangible connection to Britain’s royal and political history, making it a profound stop within the tour.

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The Significance of the Coronation Chair

The Coronation Chair in St. George’s Chapel is perhaps Westminster Abbey’s most famous piece. Commissioned by Edward I, it has been used for every English and British monarch’s coronation since the 13th century. Originally decorated with gold leaf and glass, the chair was designed to house the Stone of Destiny, which was taken during Edward I’s conquest of Scotland.

This historic throne gives visitors a sense of the continuity and tradition that define the British monarchy. Its history as a symbol of royal authority adds depth to the overall Westminster Abbey experience.

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Marvel at the Lady Chapel and Chapter House

Within Westminster Abbey, the Lady Chapel impresses with its fan-vaulted ceiling and elaborate carvings. This space, the burial site of kings, queens, and monarchs, is decorated with ornate sculptures and offers a peaceful atmosphere amid the busy abbey.

The Chapter House features fan vaults and decorative pendants, showcasing medieval craftsmanship. The tombs of notable figures like Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots are located here, making it a poignant space for those interested in royal stories.

Enjoying the Afternoon Tea Experience

The Cellarium Café & Terrace, situated within Westminster Abbey, offers a full Afternoon Tea as part of this tour. The experience can be enjoyed before or after the visit to Westminster, depending on your preference. Served from 12 noon until 5 pm, the tea includes traditional sandwiches, scones, and pastries, accompanied by tea or coffee.

This elegant setting within the abbey provides a relaxing break, allowing visitors to indulge in a classic British tradition amidst historic surroundings. The terrace offers a chance to enjoy views of the abbey’s architecture during the meal.

Additional Amenities and Practical Details

On the coach, free Wi-Fi and USB charging points help keep devices powered during the ride. The Vox headsets ensure clear commentary from the Blue Badge Guide throughout the sightseeing portion. The small group size and comfortable coach make for an enjoyable, informative experience.

Note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so guests should plan to meet at Victoria Coach Station and make their own arrangements for returning home.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience suits those interested in royal history, architecture, and British traditions. It’s ideal for visitors wanting a rundown with guided storytelling and a scenic coach ride. The Afternoon Tea adds a charming and cultural touch, perfect for a leisurely day out.

However, travelers seeking rigid schedules or a fully guided inside Westminster Abbey might find the independent access limiting. The timing flexibility for the tea allows some personalization but requires planning.

Final Thoughts on the Royal London Tour

The London: Royal Tour with Westminster Abbey & Afternoon Tea provides a well-balanced combination of sightseeing, historic exploration, and culinary delight. Its expert guide, iconic sights, and elegant tea experience make it a memorable way to enjoy London’s royal heritage.

While the independent entry to Westminster Abbey offers flexibility, it also means you should plan your visit to maximize your time. The coach ride and Changing of the Guard are highlights that bring the city’s regal atmosphere to life.

This tour is especially recommended for visitors who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and culturally rich day out in London, with the added bonus of a traditional afternoon tea within one of Britain’s most historic sites.

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London: Royal Tour with Westminster Abbey & Afternoon Tea

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the coach tour?
The coach tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering Westminster and surrounding landmarks.

Is the entrance to Westminster Abbey included?
Yes, independent entry tickets are included, along with a multimedia guide.

Can I enjoy the Afternoon Tea before visiting Westminster Abbey?
Yes, the Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed either before or after your visit, as it is served from 12 noon until 5 pm.

What sights does the coach pass by?
The coach offers views of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, No. 10 Downing Street, Royal Albert Hall, and more.

Will I see the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, on scheduled days, you will watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace from a prime vantage point.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour’s mix of sightseeing and a relaxed tea break makes it suitable for families with children, though it involves walking and some waiting.

Are there any physical requirements?
Guests should be comfortable walking 15-minute distances to Westminster Abbey and standing during the Guard ceremony.

What is the guide’s language?
The tour is conducted in English by a Blue Badge Guide.

Do I need to cancel in advance?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, guests need to meet at Victoria Coach Station, as hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.