London: Westminster Walking Tour & St Paul’s Cathedral Entry

Explore Westminster’s Top 20 Sights with a Local Guide

This London: Westminster Walking Tour & St Paul’s Cathedral Entry offers a comprehensive glimpse into one of the city’s most historic areas. For $91.60 per person, the tour lasts approximately 5 hours and is designed to showcase the top 20 sights in Westminster. Led by a small, lively group and a fun local guide, this experience is perfect for those who want an engaging overview of central London’s most famous landmarks.

Starting at The Ritz London, the tour moves through iconic locations, giving you a chance to see famous sites from multiple angles. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge help bring Westminster’s stories to life, making this walk both educational and enjoyable. The tour’s highlight is the entry to St Paul’s Cathedral, one of the most recognizable religious sites in the world.

While the tour doesn’t include transport or snacks, it does feature a walk through Green Park, stops at Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, Downing Street, and Parliament Square, along with a visit to Westminster Abbey. The changing of the Guard occurs on specific days, adding a dynamic element to the experience.

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Key Points

• Includes entrance to St Paul’s Cathedral—skip the lines and go straight inside
• Visit the top 20 sights in Westminster, guided by a fun local expert
• See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (on certain days)
• Walk through Green Park, Trafalgar Square, and Whitehall to see London’s most famous landmarks
• Tour duration is about 5 hours with a flexible start time (check availability)
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more engaging experience

Starting Point at The Ritz London

The tour begins outside The Ritz hotel at 150 Piccadilly, a notable London landmark. It’s easy to locate: look for two red telephone boxes and two souvenir stands beneath the Ritz sign, close to Green Park Underground station. After meeting here, the guide leads the group through Westminster’s streets, sharing stories and facts along the way.

This meeting point is convenient, with public transport options nearby, and the tour ends back at the same place, making it simple to continue exploring London afterward.

Witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

One standout feature of this tour is the opportunity to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. This event occurs only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and the tour on the 10 am schedule is timed to include this spectacle. It’s a lively, ceremonial tradition that captures the pageantry of British royal customs.

It’s worth noting that this ceremony can be canceled due to extreme weather, so travelers should check the schedule in advance. The guide provides context and background, making this a memorable moment for first-time visitors.

Exploring Westminster’s Historic Landmarks

From Downing Street to Westminster Abbey, the tour covers several historically significant sites. The photo stops at Parliament Square and Big Ben let visitors take in iconic London views, while Trafalgar Square offers a vibrant scene with its statues and fountains.

Westminster Abbey, a highlight of the tour, is not only an architectural marvel but also a place where King Charles and Princess Diana were married. The guide provides insights into its history, and the guided tour component enriches the visit.

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Inside the Magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral

The visit to St Paul’s Cathedral lasts around 2 hours, giving enough time to explore this architectural masterpiece. The cathedral’s dome and historic artifacts are among the features visitors appreciate most. Since an entrance ticket is included, there’s no need to wait in line, allowing for a relaxed visit.

This site is known for its spectacular interior, and the tour includes a thorough exploration of its chapels, galleries, and the famous Whispering Gallery. Its role as the site of royal weddings underscores its importance in British history.

The Practicalities of the Tour

The meeting point outside The Ritz is easily accessible from Green Park Underground station. The tour operates with a live English-speaking guide who keeps the group engaged with stories and historical facts.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and private groups can be arranged for a more personalized experience. Keep in mind, transport and snacks are not included, so plan accordingly with comfortable shoes, an umbrella, snacks, drinks, and a reusable water bottle. Large luggage or bags are not allowed, so travel light.

Fully Guided with Flexibility and Clear Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for travelers. While the guide leads the group through Westminster, they do not accompany visitors inside St Paul’s, so you’ll explore that magnificent cathedral independently.

This tour suits visitors who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Westminster’s highlights, combined with the opportunity to see St Paul’s Cathedral without long lines. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a small group environment and a knowledgeable guide sharing insights along the way.

Final Thoughts on the Westminster Walking Tour & St Paul’s Entry

This experience offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and cultural insights, perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time. The included St Paul’s Cathedral ticket adds great value, enabling access to one of London’s most famous landmarks.

While the schedule for the Changing of the Guard is limited to specific days, the tour still covers the major sights of Westminster, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to learn about London’s royal and political history. The small group size and lively guides ensure a personal and engaging experience.

This tour offers a well-rounded, informative, and enjoyable walk through London’s Westminster, suitable for travelers who want to see the city’s highlights with expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes a walking tour of Westminster’s top 20 sights, an entrance ticket to St Paul’s Cathedral, and a small group guided experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with the visit to St Paul’s Cathedral taking about 2 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside The Ritz London at 150 Piccadilly and finishes back at the same location.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, if you book the 10 am tour on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday, you can witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

Is there a guide inside St Paul’s Cathedral?
No, the guide leads you to St Paul’s after the walking tour but does not accompany you inside.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users.

Are snacks and transport included?
No, transport, snacks, and beverages are not included, so bring your own for comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, an umbrella, snacks, drinks, water, and a reusable water bottle.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private group options are available for a more personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The Changing of the Guard may be canceled in extreme weather, but the rest of the tour continues as scheduled.

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