Royal London Walking Tour with High Tea at Kensington Palace

Exploring London’s royal landmarks becomes an engaging experience with the Royal London Walking Tour with High Tea at Kensington Palace. Priced at $164.25 per person, this 2-hour guided walk takes you past three historic palaces in central London, offering both cultural insights and a delightful culinary finale. The tour is designed for small groups, typically 4 to 6 guests, providing an intimate atmosphere and personalized attention, with an option to upgrade to a private experience.

The highlight is the traditional high tea served at Kensington Palace, featuring sandwiches, scones, cakes, and an optional sparkling wine. This combination of sightseeing and culinary indulgence makes it a memorable way to spend an afternoon immersed in royal history. While it involves considerable walking and no palace entry tickets are included, the tour’s detailed narration and scenic stops make it worthwhile for those interested in the monarchy and London’s elegant architecture.

Key Points

• Small group or private tour with a maximum of 10 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Includes a traditional high tea with sandwiches, scones, cakes, and optional sparkling wine, served at Kensington Palace.
• Visits three iconic royal sites: St. James’s Palace, Buckingham Palace, and Kensington Palace.
• Walks outside historic landmarks, such as Spencer House, The Mall, and Albert Memorial.
• In-depth stories and insider facts from knowledgeable guides like Simon and David.
• The tour is well-reviewed, earning a perfect 5 out of 5 from 58 reviews, with many highlighting the guides’ expertise and the delicious tea experience.

Discovering London’s Royal Palaces and Historic Landmarks

This tour begins outside Green Park Underground station, where the guides introduce the royal theme of the afternoon. The walk covers famous landmarks like Spencer House, St. James’s Palace, and Buckingham Palace, offering a comprehensive look at London’s royal history in a compact timeframe.

The route includes stopping outside St. James’s Palace, which is the official London residence of the monarchy. The guides share stories about Queen Victoria’s childhood at Kensington Palace and the statue commemorating her Golden Jubilee, all set amidst the backdrop of this historic building.

Inside the Significance of Spencer House

The first notable stop is Spencer House, built between 1756 and 1766 for John, first Earl Spencer. It remains London’s finest surviving eighteenth-century town house, reflecting the grandeur of that era. The guides explain its importance as a symbol of aristocratic London and its connection to the Spencer family, ancestors of Diana, Princess of Wales.

Though not open to the public, this stop offers a glimpse into the noble architecture that characterizes London’s historic aristocratic residences. Photographing the exterior is encouraged, and the narration provides context about its architectural style and historical significance.

The Story of St. James’s Palace and Its Royal Roots

The tour then moves to St. James’s Palace, which has a complex history as a former leper hospital and later a royal residence after Whitehall Palace burned down in 1698. The guides highlight that King George IV was born here in 1762, and that Queen Victoria spent her early years at Kensington Palace, not far from this site.

Guests observe the statue of Queen Victoria at the palace grounds, commemorating her Golden Jubilee and her childhood connection to the site. The guides also mention that despite its status as a royal palace, St. James’s Palace is not regularly open to visitors, but the public can attend services at its chapels.

Exploring The Mall and Its Royal Significance

Walking along The Mall, visitors see the official route connecting major royal sites. While the palace itself isn’t open to the public, The Mall’s wide promenade provides a perfect vantage point for photos of Buckingham Palace and iconic royal banners fluttering in the breeze.

The guides elaborate on the history of the area, sharing stories about royal processions and the importance of The Mall as a ceremonial route. The 10-minute stop here allows for quick photos and a chance to take in the imposing view of Buckingham Palace.

Tour of Buckingham Palace’s Exterior and Its Origins

The tour includes an exterior look at Buckingham Palace, a site with roots dating back to its original construction between 1761 and 1778 by Robert Adam. The palace started as a townhouse for the Duke of Buckingham, then became the official royal residence during Queen Victoria’s reign.

Guests learn about the marshy ground of Ebury Manor, water-fed by the Tyburn River, which still flows beneath the palace. While entrance tickets are not included, the narration offers insights into the palace’s architectural evolution and its role in British royal life.

The Wellington Arch and Its Military Heritage

Next, visitors cross to see the Wellington Arch, designed by Decimus Burton in 1828. The arch was originally built as a victory monument after the Battle of Waterloo and features a chariot of peace added in 1912.

The guide explains the symbolism behind the bronze sculpture and the arch’s importance in royalty and military history. The short stop allows time for photographs of this imposing structure and its scenic placement.

The Art of Human Energy at the Albert Memorial

One of the tour’s most profound stops is the Albert Memorial, a bronze statue created by George Frederic Watts. The sculpture depicts Physical Energy, an allegorical figure symbolizing progress and human challenge.

This iconic monument reflects Watts’s belief in human effort and innovation, and the guide shares how Watts worked on the statue for over 20 years. The free 10-minute stop provides an opportunity for close-up views and appreciation of this artistic tribute.

Honoring War Heroes: The Bomber Command Memorial

The tour then visits the Bomber Command Memorial near Hyde Park Corner, dedicated to RAF crews who served during World War II. The guides highlight the memorial’s purpose: to honor 55,573 aircrew from various countries who fought in bombing missions.

Standing before this powerful tribute, visitors learn about the sacrifices of those who flew dangerous missions, represented by a bronze statue of a bomber crew, and absorb the significance of remembrance in the heart of London.

The Majesty of the Royal Albert Hall

The Royal Albert Hall stands as a symbol of cultural excellence in London. The guides share stories about its construction in 1871 and its role as a venue for concerts, events, and royal gatherings.

Although the interior access is not part of the tour, the exterior view prompts reflections on the hall’s importance in London’s artistic scene. The 10-minute stop offers a quick way to appreciate the architectural grandeur of this world-famous concert hall.

Kensington Palace and its Royal Heritage

The tour culminates at Kensington Palace, where Queen Victoria was born and spent her early years. The guides recount her ascension to the throne in 1837 and the palace’s long-standing connection to the royal family.

Guests see the statue celebrating Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, sculpted by Princess Louise, and learn about its history and significance. The final stop is the Orangery, where the delicious high tea awaits.

The High Tea Experience at Kensington Palace

The concluding highlight is the traditional high tea served at the Kensington Palace Orangery. Guests enjoy sandwiches, scones, cakes, and the option of sparkling wine. The tea set features Princess Diana’s royal china, adding a special touch to this elegant meal.

All freshly prepared, the afternoon tea provides a relaxing ending to the tour, letting visitors reflect on the day’s sights while savoring classic British fare. The small group setting ensures a cozy, friendly atmosphere, making the experience feel exclusive and personal.

Practicalities: Meeting Points, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour begins at Green Park Underground station and ends at Kensington Palace in Kensington Gardens. It is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and service animals allowed.

The tour operates with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace. It involves considerable walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. No entrance fees for palaces are included, but the guide provides a comprehensive historical context, making the exterior visits very rewarding.

Final Thoughts on the Royal London Walking Tour with High Tea

This experience offers a balanced combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and culinary delight. The expert guides, especially Simon and David, receive numerous praise for their knowledge and friendly approach. The high tea at Kensington Palace is consistently highlighted as a delicious and memorable part of the experience.

While the tour involves walking outside historic sites without access to the interiors of palaces, the insights provided and the atmosphere of elegance make it worthwhile. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts and those wanting a relaxed, well-rounded afternoon exploring London’s royal heart.

This tour suits visitors who enjoy guided walks, cultural stories, and delicious food, and are comfortable with some walking. Its small-group format guarantees a more intimate experience, and the cultural richness combined with a luxurious tea creates a truly special way to spend a few hours in London.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include entry to the palaces?
No, the tour is a walking experience with exterior views of St. James’s Palace, Buckingham Palace, and Kensington Palace, but no entrance tickets are included.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, ending at Kensington Palace with the high tea.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, but consider the walking involved.

Can I upgrade to a private tour?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade for a private experience, ideal for those seeking exclusivity.

What is included in the high tea?
Guests enjoy sandwiches, scones, cakes, and tea, with the option of sparkling wine if selected.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, prior requests for Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Vegan, or Halal options are available.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Green Park Underground station and concludes at Kensington Palace in Kensington Gardens.

Is transportation included?
No, private transport is not part of the package; attendance is via public transportation.

What do reviews highlight about this tour?
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, the scenic stops, and the delightful high tea, often calling it the best way to explore London’s royal sites in a short time.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked 49 days in advance but can be reserved earlier for better availability.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available with at least 24 hours’ notice before the scheduled start.

This detailed review captures the essence of the Royal London Walking Tour with High Tea at Kensington Palace, offering a clear picture of what to expect for those interested in royal history, scenic walks, and a luxurious tea experience.