Royal London Guided Tour with Changing of the Guard

The Royal London Guided Tour with Changing of the Guard offers an efficient way to see some of London’s most iconic royal landmarks in just three hours. Priced at $68.69 per person, this tour departs from Victoria Coach Station and includes a comfortable coach equipped with Wi-Fi and USB charging. It highlights the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, a highlight that many visitors cherish. The tour is ideal for those short on time who want a guided overview of the city’s royal and historic sites, complemented by engaging commentary from professional guides. However, it’s worth noting that accessibility can be a concern, and the schedule might vary depending on events such as royal ceremonies or coronation preparations.

Despite some mixed reviews regarding crowd management and timing, this tour provides a solid introduction to London’s royal district. It suits travelers who prefer a structured, informative experience with group size limited to 53 people. For visitors eager to combine sightseeing with a bit of British pomp, this tour offers a balanced mix of landmarks and storytelling, though it may not satisfy those seeking an in-depth or fully accessible experience.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, with a flexible schedule to fit a busy day.
• Main focus: The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, plus highlights like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, with audio headsets provided to hear commentary clearly.
• Transport: Superior coach with Wi-Fi and USB ports offers comfort and convenience.
• Accessibility: Some guests note issues with handicap accessibility and walking distance to the guard viewing points.
• Scheduling considerations: Changing of the Guard occurs Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, but may be unavailable during special events like the King’s Coronation.

Departure and Meeting Details at Victoria Coach Station

The tour begins at Victoria Coach Station at 9:00 am, and concludes around noon at Evan Evans Tours, 258 Vauxhall Bridge Rd. The coach is air-conditioned, making city travel comfortable, and the meet-up point is close to public transportation options. The tour includes a professional guide, Wi-Fi, and personal audio headsets, but lacks hotel pick-up and drop-off and lunch options. This setup simplifies logistics, though it requires punctuality, especially during busy mornings.

Exploring London’s Royal Highlights in About 3 Hours

This tour is designed for visitors who want a comprehensive yet condensed overview of London’s major royal sights. Starting from Kensington Palace, the tour offers a glimpse into the home of Princess Diana and her history, followed by a view of the Royal Albert Hall and Albert Memorial. The coach then circles Trafalgar Square, offering a chance to photograph the famous lion statues and Nelson’s Column.

Next, the drive along Whitehall provides views of Downing Street, the residence of the British Prime Minister, and then passes by the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. One of the central moments is the visit to Westminster Abbey, where many British monarchs have been crowned and buried, including the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

The main highlight of this tour is witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a classic display of British pageantry. Guards in red tunics and bearskin hats march in unison as a band plays timeless military tunes. The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes and occurs on scheduled days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday). When the guards switch duties, they do so with impressive precision, often facing spectators from designated viewpoints facing Buckingham Palace.

Guests observe from a viewpoint near the palace, and the guide explains the history and significance of this tradition. Some reviews note that, during busy days or special occasions, viewing can be crowded or chaotic, and the best vantage points can be challenging to secure. During coronation preparations, the schedule may change, and the guard change might not take place as usual.

Stops at Iconic London Landmarks

The tour includes stops at St. James’s Park, a scenic green space surrounded by important landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, and Whitehall. Guests can enjoy views of the park’s gardens and possibly catch a glimpse of the Horse Guards Parade, depending on the schedule.

Whitehall is another notable stop, known as London’s main governmental thoroughfare, lined with important buildings and government offices. The tour then proceeds past Parliament Square, with views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, symbols of Britain’s political history.

Westminster Abbey and Its Historic Significance

The Gothic Westminster Abbey is a highlight for those interested in British royal history. With origins dating back to 1245, it has been the site of coronations since 1066 and is the resting place of 17 monarchs. The guide shares fascinating facts about its architecture and royal connections, making it a must-see stop during this tour.

Attending this tour allows visitors to take photos of this majestic church, while hearing about its role in British life and royalty. The tour’s focus on photography can be limited during the busy ceremony, but the exterior views remain impressive.

Additional Stops and Sightseeing Opportunities

Guests have the chance to learn about Diana’s former residence at Kensington Palace and view the Royal Albert Hall and Albert Memorial. These sights are described as elegant and historically significant, with the guide providing context about their importance in London’s royal and cultural scene.

The tour concludes in Trafalgar Square, a bustling hub of activity and history. Visitors are then free to explore further or visit nearby attractions, including the option to upgrade for a London Eye ticket if desired.

Practicalities and Limitations

The tour operates with a maximum group size of 53 people, ensuring a manageable experience. However, reviews highlight some disappointments, such as lack of accessibility for guests with mobility issues, and timing issues during royal event preparations, which can affect the visibility of the Changing of the Guard.

The bus is equipped with free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports, making it convenient for modern travelers. Still, no hotel transfers or meals are included, so guests should plan accordingly.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This guided sightseeing experience is well-suited for visitors who want an overview of London’s royal landmarks with professional commentary. It offers a good balance of iconic sights and concise history. The inclusion of the Changing of the Guard makes it ideal for those seeking a classic British tradition, though timing and crowd control can vary.

Travelers who appreciate informative guides and comfortable transport will find this tour reliable. However, those with mobility challenges or expecting up-close access to the palace should consider the limitations noted in reviews.

Final Thoughts on the Royal London Tour

The Royal London Guided Tour with Changing of the Guard delivers a solid snapshot of London’s royal and political highlights within a three-hour window. The expert guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, and the coach’s amenities add comfort to city travel.

While not perfect—especially regarding accessibility and timing during special events—the tour remains a valuable introduction for first-time visitors or those short on time. For an immersive experience of London’s monarchy and architecture, this tour offers a well-organized and engaging option, especially for anyone eager to witness the changing of the guard as part of their visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes an expert guide, a modern coach with Wi-Fi and USB ports, and personal audio headsets. The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is also part of the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire tour lasts approximately 3 hours, ending around noon.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Victoria Coach Station at 9:00 am and finishes at Evan Evans Tours, 258 Vauxhall Bridge Rd.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included in the package.

Is the tour accessible for guests with mobility issues?
Some reviews indicate accessibility challenges, especially the walking involved to view the Changing of the Guard. It is advisable to check in advance if accessibility is a concern.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard every day?
No, the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace occurs Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. When it does not, the ceremony at Horse Guards Parade is viewed instead.

What landmarks will I see on the tour?
You will see Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall, Albert Memorial, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the pace and walking may be challenging for older guests or those with mobility issues.

What if I want to include the London Eye?
The tour offers an upgrade option for an open-date ticket to the London Eye, but the standard tour does not include this attraction.

What happens if the schedule changes due to special events?
During events like royal coronations, the Changing of the Guard may be canceled or rescheduled, and the tour schedule might be affected.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.