Royal Tour & Buckingham Palace State Rooms or Royal Mews Option

Explore London’s Royal Heritage with a Guided Walking Tour

This Royal Tour in London offers a detailed look at the city’s royal landmarks, available at $80.92 per person. The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours and is designed for those interested in exploring iconic sites like Buckingham Palace, St. Jamess Palace, The Mall, and Green Park. Led by a local English-speaking guide, the experience includes visits to either the Buckingham Palace State Rooms or the Royal Mews, with skip-the-line tickets pre-reserved for convenience.

The tour receives a 4.5/5 rating from 17 reviews, with 94% recommending it. It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those who appreciate well-informed guides and want to avoid long lines. One notable feature is the wheelchair accessibility, making it accommodating for guests with mobility needs. However, visitors should be prepared for a walking tour that moves at a moderate pace, covering several historic sites in central London.

Key Points

• Price: $80.92 per person including optional entry tickets
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours, with flexible options for inside visits
• Highlights: Buckingham Palace State Rooms, Royal Mews, St. Jamess Palace, Changing of the Guard
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Includes: Local guide, skip-the-line tickets (if selected)
• Limitations: No hotel pick-up or drop-off, walking involved

Starting Point at Canada Gate and the First Royal Landmarks

The tour begins outside Canada Gate, on Carriage Drive, one of the most recognizable entrances to Buckingham Palace. From there, a knowledgeable guide delivers an overview of royal life and history to the small group. This initial introduction provides context for the sites to come, making the walking route through Green Park and past Clarence House especially engaging.

Clarence House is a beautiful nineteenth-century estate that has served as a residence for the royal family for over 300 years, including the current reigning monarch. Walking further, the group reaches St. Jamess Palace, which functions as a working royal residence and has been in use for centuries. The guide shares stories about its long history and current role in royal affairs.

Walking Along The Mall and the Significance of Royal Processions

After exploring the palaces, the group strolls along The Mall, a historic route lined with flags and trees, that has hosted many royal processions, including royal weddings, coronations, and Jubilee celebrations. The guide points out sites along the way and recounts the events associated with this route, providing a vivid picture of royal ceremonies.

The walk through St. Jamess Park and past Wellington Barracks offers insights into the Royal Foot Guards’ duties and their role in protecting the Royal Family. This segment emphasizes London’s living connection to monarchy traditions and military history.

Choosing Your Experience: Royal Mews or Buckingham Palace State Rooms

At this point, travelers select between two main options: Royal Mews or Buckingham Palace State Rooms. Both options are fully included if booked in advance and come with skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide.

The Royal Mews: Working Stables and Historic Carriages

If opting for the Royal Mews, the highlight is the chance to see the coaches and carriages used for royal occasions. The Gold State Coach, used in Queen Elizabeth II’s 1953 Coronation, is a major draw. Visitors also see the Queen’s carriages and working stables, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at the royal transport operations.

This part of the tour takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to explore at leisure and learn about the history of royal transportation. The skip-the-line tickets help avoid long waits, and the audio guide provides detailed explanations of each exhibit.

Buckingham Palace State Rooms: Opulent Rooms and Royal Entertainment

Alternatively, the Buckingham Palace State Rooms offer a glimpse into the royal residences’ luxurious interiors. This includes the White Drawing Room, Throne Room, and other 19th-century salons, still used for royal entertaining.

Open only for a few months each year, the State Rooms give visitors a rare opportunity to see the magnificent decorations, furnishings, and art collections that define royal opulence. The self-paced exploration with the audio guide lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Visiting Buckingham Palace: What to Expect in the State Rooms

The State Rooms are filled with ornate furnishings, paintings, and historic artifacts. This part of the tour provides a glimpse into royal ceremonial spaces, used to host official guests and state occasions. The guide explains the history and significance of each room, making the experience both educational and visually stunning.

Since the palace is only open during certain months, this option is seasonal. When closed, the tour switches to the Royal Mews, slightly reducing the total duration to around 2.5 hours.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Accessibility

The tour starts at Canada Gate and concludes at Buckingham Palace, both conveniently located near public transportation options in central London. It’s designed for a small group of no more than 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with limited space for mobility-impaired guests. It involves moderate walking, so travelers should be comfortable walking at a steady pace. The tour is conducted in English and does not include hotel transportation.

What Reviewers Say About the Tour Experience

Most reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, with one mentioning how Terry made the experience particularly engaging by sharing insightful stories. The skip-the-line tickets are seen as a significant value, allowing more time to enjoy the sites.

Some feedback highlights the stunning views during the Changing of the Guard and the impressive interiors of Buckingham Palace. However, there are reports of logistical issues, such as delays caused by external factors like marathon events or confusing meet-up instructions.

Despite minor hiccups, the majority find this tour well-organized and informative, especially appreciating the friendly, expert guides who make history come alive.

Final Thoughts on the Royal Tour & Buckingham Palace Options

This tour offers a solid introduction to London’s royal landmarks, combining walking, exploration, and inside visits to some of the most iconic sites. The option to choose between the Royal Mews and Buckingham Palace State Rooms allows visitors to tailor their experience based on personal interests.

The price point includes skip-the-line tickets and a guided walk, making it a convenient way to see royal London without long waits. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy history, architecture, and royalty-themed sights.

While limited to a small group, the tour’s moderate pace and accessibility make it a good fit for most visitors, provided they are comfortable walking. For an authentic, well-led exploration of royal London, this tour delivers a dependable and engaging experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but space is limited. Travelers with mobility impairments should contact the Guest Experience team to ensure accommodations.

What is included in the ticket price?
The price covers pre-reserved skip-the-line tickets for either Buckingham Palace State Rooms or Royal Mews (according to booking choice), along with a local guide and guided walking tour.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the option chosen and the pace of exploration.

Are there any seasonal closures I should know about?
Yes, Buckingham Palace State Rooms are open from July 11 to September 29 each year. When closed, the visit to the Royal Mews is shorter, around 2.5 hours.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. The meeting point is Canada Gate, accessible via public transportation.

Can I join this tour if I have limited walking ability?
The tour involves walking at a moderate pace. It is recommended that guests are comfortable walking but accommodations can be discussed with the provider.

Is food or drink included?
No, the tour does not include meals or beverages. Participants are encouraged to bring water and wear comfortable shoes.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 70 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and the desire to secure skip-the-line tickets.

What do reviews highlight as the best part of the tour?
Most praise guides’ knowledge and storytelling, as well as stunning views during the Changing of the Guard and the inside of Buckingham Palace when available.

What makes this tour different from other London sightseeing options?
The combination of outdoor sights and inside royal residences, plus the skip-the-line tickets, offers a comprehensive and time-efficient royal experience in central London.