A fun and interactive way to discover London’s Westminster region, the London Self-Guided Murder Mystery Tour by Buckingham Palace offers an engaging twist on sightseeing. Priced at $22.75 per person and lasting around 2 hours, this tour is ideal for those who enjoy puzzles, history, and a dash of mystery. The tour begins at Snack stop 11A Charing Cross Rd and ends at Great Scotland Yard, taking you through iconic landmarks like Westminster, Big Ben, and the Palace of Westminster.

While the experience is self-led—meaning you follow clues on your own—it provides a budget-friendly, interactive way to explore central London. Note that this tour does not include entry to Buckingham Palace, making it suitable for visitors focused on outdoor sights and puzzles rather than interior visits. Based on available reviews, it’s a solid choice for those eager for a relaxed, fun activity with some sightseeing thrown in.

Key Points

Self-guided murder mystery scavenger hunt covering Westminster landmarks
Duration of approximately 2 hours, with walking and standing involved
Priced at $22.75 per person, booked an average of 192 days in advance
Starts at Snack stop 11A Charing Cross Rd and ends at Great Scotland Yard
Includes an envelope with clues and puzzles, no entry tickets for landmarks included
Suitable for most travelers, with accessibility considerations and no age restrictions

Starting Point at Snack Stop 11A Charing Cross Rd

This tour begins at Snack stop 11A Charing Cross Rd, a convenient location near public transportation options in central London. The starting point provides an easy meeting spot for groups ready to solve the mystery. From here, the adventure kicks off with the first clues, setting the scene for a hunt that takes you through Westminster’s most famous sights.

The initial stop is also where the mystery begins at the Royal Artillery Memorial, with about 20 minutes allocated for this part of the experience. The envelope containing clues is handed out at the start, giving your team everything needed for the game. The self-led format offers flexibility in pacing and allows groups to enjoy the activity at their own speed.

Appreciate having local insight? Here are other guided experiences in London we've examined

Exploring Westminster’s Top Sights During the Mystery

The murder mystery takes you on a route through Westminster, a hub of political and historical significance. As you walk, you’ll pass by landmarks such as Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster. Both locations are key visual highlights, offering photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate their grandeur from the outside.

While the Palace of Westminster is a quick stop of about 20 minutes, it’s enough to admire its impressive architecture and get a sense of London’s political heart. The tour does not include entry tickets, so visitors who wish to explore the interior will need to purchase separate admission. Big Ben, just a brief 10-minute stop, offers a classic London photo moment, with the clock tower visible from many vantage points.

The Royal Artillery Memorial as the Mystery’s Starting Point

This monument marks the start of the adventure, with around 20 minutes allocated to solving initial clues. The Royal Artillery Memorial is a striking outdoor sculpture that provides a fitting dramatic backdrop for the mystery. The game’s narrative begins here, setting the scene for uncovering secrets around Westminster.

Participants will find that this outdoor start allows for a relaxed pace, with plenty of space to gather clues and strategize. There is no admission fee for the memorial, making it an accessible and free starting point that blends historical significance with the thrill of the game.

The Route and Puzzles: Combining Sightseeing with Game Play

As the self-guided tour unfolds, your group receives an envelope with puzzles and clues. This interactive element transforms traditional sightseeing into a detective story, encouraging you to observe your surroundings closely. The game challenges your team to piece together evidence, leading to the identification of the mystery killer.

Throughout the tour, you will keep an eye out for key landmarks and hidden clues. The route is designed to be engaging, with stops at Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster. The experience emphasizes discovery and problem-solving over inside visits, making it suitable for those who enjoy outdoor exploration and mental challenges.

Logistics: Meeting Point, Duration, and Accessibility

The tour is a private activity, ensuring your group has a personalized experience. It begins at the designated Snack stop 11A Charing Cross Rd, close to public transit options, and proceeds at your own pace for approximately 2 hours. Participants should be prepared to walk and stand for this duration, making comfortable footwear advisable.

Service animals are permitted, and the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers. The flexible timing allows for breaks if needed. Since no tickets to interior attractions are included, this tour is particularly suitable for those who prefer outdoor sightseeing and interactive adventures.

While in London, here are other experiences we've covered

End Location at Great Scotland Yard

The tour concludes at Great Scotland Yard, a location with historical significance in London’s law enforcement history. The ending point offers an opportunity for further exploration or to plan the next step in a day of sightseeing. The finish is accessible and conveniently located near transportation links, making it easy to continue your exploration or head back to your accommodation.

The outdoor finish completes the mystery story, leaving participants with a sense of accomplishment and a memorable outdoor experience in central London.

Value and Suitability for Different Travelers

At $22.75 per person, this self-guided murder mystery offers good value for a unique activity combining sightseeing with puzzle-solving. The activity is well-suited for those who enjoy interactive experiences, outdoor exploration, and iconic landmarks. Its low cost, combined with the freedom of a self-led format, makes it an appealing option for groups seeking a fun, budget-friendly outing.

However, visitors looking for interior tours of landmarks or guided commentary might find this experience limited. The 3.0-star rating suggests that while it has its fans—highlighting the fun of outdoor “constables” watching the group—it may not appeal to those expecting a highly polished or comprehensive guided tour.

The Sum Up: A Lighthearted Detective Adventure in Westminster

This self-guided murder mystery tour provides a playful way to see Westminster’s most recognizable sights while engaging in a detective story. It’s an affordable, flexible activity that emphasizes outdoor sightseeing and puzzle-solving. The route’s highlights—Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, and Scotland Yard—are all included in the outdoor adventure, making it perfect for those who enjoy active, interactive exploration.

While it does not include entry to interior landmarks, the tour’s charming outdoor stops and the fun of solving clues make it a worthwhile addition for visitors who appreciate a casual, entertaining way to discover London’s core. Suitable for most groups, especially those looking for an inexpensive, memorable experience with a mystery twist.

✨ Book This Experience

London Self-Guided Murder Mystery Tour by Buckingham Palace

3.0

“The constables watching us in front of the parliament building but curious as to what we were doing. They thought it was interesting.”

— Jay M, Aug 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed as a self-led activity and generally accessible to most travelers, including families. Since it involves walking and standing, children should be able to handle approximately 2 hours of outdoor activity.

Are tickets to Buckingham Palace included?
No, this tour does not include entry tickets to Buckingham Palace or other indoor landmarks. It focuses on outdoor sights and puzzles.

What is the meeting point?
Participants meet at Snack stop 11A Charing Cross Rd, a central London location near public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The estimated duration is about 2 hours, though flexibility exists for pacing and breaks.

Is the activity private?
Yes, this is a private tour/activity, so only your group participates in the murder mystery game.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the activity.

What should I bring?
Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as the activity takes place outdoors.

Does this tour operate year-round?
Yes, it runs from April 15, 2021, through August 5, 2026, daily from 9:00AM to 8:00PM.

Is this a guided experience?
No, it is self-guided, with all clues provided in the envelope you receive at the start.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.