Royal London And Changing of Guard – Very Small Group Tour

Explore London’s Royals in an Intimate Setting

This Royal London and Changing of Guard tour offers a personal approach to discovering London’s most iconic royal landmarks. Priced at $75.39 per person and lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours, this tour is ideal for those who prefer an exclusive, small-group experience over crowded bus rides. With only your group involved, the tour offers a relaxed pace, plenty of space for questions, and close-up views of key sites.

The tour starts at 9:30 am from 1-3 Arlington St, centrally located near Westminster Station. It features a mobile ticket, ensuring a smooth check-in process. Given its high demand—booked on average 125 days in advance—this experience suits travelers eager for a focused, informative exploration of London’s royal history, with the chance to see the Changing of the Guard on select days. While it’s perfect for those who love history and regal stories, note that snacks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Exclusive small-group experience with personalized attention
• Visit major royal sites including Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace, and Westminster Abbey
• Watch the Changing of the Guard (on selected days) for a more intimate view
• Learn about the Royal Family, including King Charles, Queen Elizabeth, and Princess Diana
• Stops at historic locations like Clarence House, Horse Guards Parade, and The Savoy Hotel
• Thorough, knowledgeable guides who bring history to life

Starting Point at Arlington Street, Close to Westminster Station

This tour begins at 1-3 Arlington St, a very central location near Westminster Station, making it easy to access via public transportation. The tour departs at 9:30 am, allowing visitors to start their day with a focused, engaging exploration. After the tour, the guide offers tips on further sightseeing or travel options, making it convenient to extend your London visit.

The private tour setup ensures you won’t be part of a crowded group, which many past participants highly appreciate. This small-group model enhances the experience, making it easier to hear stories, ask questions, and move comfortably between stops.

Visiting Mayfair: The Birthplace of Queen Elizabeth II

The first stop in Mayfair highlights the Queen’s birthplace, where she was born in 1926. This area is known for its luxury and exclusivity. The guide points out sites associated with Winston Churchill as well, adding extra depth for those interested in Prime Minister history.

While the visit lasts about 5 minutes and involves no admission fee, the significance of Mayfair as a royal birthplace makes it a meaningful introduction to the tour. It’s a quick glimpse into the royal origins that continues to resonate today.

St. James’s: Royal Warrant Shops and Princess Diana’s Connections

Next, the walk takes visitors through St. James’s, a neighborhood filled with royal shops and businesses that hold Royal Warrants. Some stops allow for brief visits into stores associated with the Royal Family, including locations tied to Princess Diana.

This section lasts around 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for photos and short history lessons about the royal influence on commerce and the Royal Warrant system. It’s a lively, engaging part of the tour that mixes shopping, history, and royal anecdotes.

Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard Experience

The highlight for many is Buckingham Palace, the most famous royal residence in London. The guide shares its history, from its origins under Queen Victoria to its status as the Queen’s official home today.

On morning tours (at 9:30 am), guests have the opportunity to watch the Changing of the Guard up close and without the usual crowds. The guide helps you get closer to the ceremony, providing a more intimate view of the colorful procession.

Following the palace visit, the group walks down The Mall, passing the Horse Guards. This stretch is packed with regal history and offers great photo opportunities of the iconic buildings and guards.

Clarence House and the Residence of Prince Charles

Just a few minutes’ walk from Buckingham Palace is Clarence House, the official London residence of Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall. The guide shares insights into the role of Clarence House in royal life, making this a fascinating peek behind the scenes of royal residences.

This stop is brief—around 5 minutes—but enriches the tour with a sense of royal continuity and current royal living arrangements.

Witnessing the Changing of the Guard at St. James’s Palace and Horse Guards Parade

For those eager to see more royal guard ceremonies, the tour offers an alternative to crowded palace rails. Walking with the guards as they march to St. James’s Palace provides a closer, personal experience of the changing process.

This 20-minute segment enables attendees to walk in step with the guards, experiencing the ceremony in a more relaxed and personal manner. The Horse Guards Parade follows, a site with deep royal roots used today for key events like Trooping the Colour and Queen’s Birthday celebrations.

Lunch Breaks at Historic Venues: The Savoy and Simpson’s

The tour includes stops at two historic venues with royal connections. The Savoy Hotel is renowned for its luxury, with its bar once favored by Queen Mother and Princess Diana. Guests can admire its elegant interiors and learn about its royal associations.

Next door, Simpson’s in the Strand offers a traditional dining atmosphere and a connection to Sherlock Holmes. It’s a famous London restaurant often linked with royal and literary history.

While the tour itself doesn’t include meals, these stops add a luxurious dimension to the experience for those interested in Royal-themed dining venues.

Westminster Abbey: Royal Ceremonies and Historic Events

A visit to Westminster Abbey is essential for understanding royal coronations, weddings, and funerals. The guide highlights its significance since 1066, including Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997 and Prince William’s wedding.

The 15-minute stop provides a visual overview of this iconic church, with information about its royal traditions and architecture. Although admission isn’t included, the visit is focused on exterior views and storytelling.

Parliament Square and the Connection to the Royal Family

The final stop is Parliament Square, home to the House of Commons and House of Lords. The famous Big Ben towers nearby, and the guide explains how this historic seat of government relates to the Royal Family’s role today.

This 15-minute segment offers a broad overview of over 1000 years of royal and political history, tying together the monarchy’s role within the UK’s governance.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The small-group setup is a major advantage, providing more personalized interactions and close-up views of ceremonies like the Changing of the Guard. The expert guide brings stories of King Charles, Queen Elizabeth, and Princess Diana to life, making history engaging and accessible.

Participants praise the knowledgeable guide and the pace of the tour, which allows for questions and easy navigation through busy sites. The duration of 3 to 4 hours strikes a nice balance, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

However, note that snacks are not included, so arriving prepared or planning to purchase refreshments might improve the experience. Also, the viewing of the Changing of the Guard depends on select days, so confirming in advance is recommended.

Comprehensive History and Royal Insights in a Private Format

This tour excels in delivering in-depth stories about Queen Elizabeth, King Charles, and Princess Diana, woven into visits at key royal landmarks. The exclusive group setting ensures a comfortable, informative, and enjoyable outing, especially suitable for those with a keen interest in royalty or history.

The $75.39 price reflects the value of a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide, making it a worthwhile choice for history enthusiasts and royal admirers who prefer to avoid large, impersonal groups.

Royal London And Changing of Guard – A Private Look at London’s Royal Side

This tour offers an engaging, detailed exploration of London’s royal sites, blending famous landmarks with stories and ceremonies that bring the city’s royal history to life. The stops at Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, Westminster Abbey, and Horse Guards Parade are particularly memorable for their historical significance and visual impact.

The small-group format creates a relaxed atmosphere where questions are welcomed, and views are unobstructed. The guided walk through royal neighborhoods and public ceremonies provides a more personal experience than standard bus tours.

Ideal for those who want a focused, expert-led tour that deepens understanding of the Royal Family’s history within London’s landmarks. While it doesn’t include meals, the stops for photo opportunities and storytelling make this tour both informative and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours.

What is included in the price?
The tour guide and private, small-group experience are included. Snacks or meals are not included.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, on select days, the tour includes stopping to watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 1-3 Arlington Street, near Westminster Station, at 9:30 am.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s ideal for those interested in royal history and personalized exploration.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellations are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Richards Tours.

Are there other similar experiences?
Yes, options include cruises, hop-on-hop-off tours, and day trips to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle. Links are available for further exploration.

Is there an option for group size?
Yes, this is a very small private group experience, ensuring a personalized touch.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its small-group format and expert guide offering deep insights into royal history, combined with the opportunity to see ceremonial events more closely, set it apart.