2 Hour Walking Tour from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben

Exploring London on Foot: A Detailed Review of the Buckingham Palace to Big Ben Tour

London never runs out of sights to wow visitors, and what better way to take in its majesty than on a guided walking tour? This 2-hour stroll from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben offers a chance to see some of London’s most famous landmarks while enjoying the city’s vibrant streets. With small groups, enthusiastic guides, and a well-paced itinerary, it promises an engaging glimpse into the heart of the capital.

In our review, we’ll explore what makes this tour stand out—like its knowledgeable guides and the chance to see the changing of the Guard—and highlight some practical details you should know before booking. One thing to consider: the tour doesn’t include entrance tickets to attractions, so if you want to go inside, plan accordingly. Perfect for history lovers, first-time visitors, or those wanting a relaxed overview of London’s top sights, this tour offers great value and authentic experiences.

Good To Know

• Expert Local Guides: Guides are passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to share insider tips.
• Iconic Landmarks: Covers Buckingham Palace, Westminster, Downing Street, and more.
• Small Group Size: Less than 20 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Flexible and Informative: Includes suggestions for the rest of your trip and snack/refreshment breaks.
• Best Days for Guard Change: Tours on Wednesday and Friday coincide with the Changing of the Guard.
• Great Value: At around $41, the tour offers a thorough introduction to London’s highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at Buckingham Palace: A Royal Welcome

The tour kicks off at the Machine Gun Corps Memorial near the palace’s main entrances. From here, you’ll get a close-up view of the palace exterior and the iconic winged goddess statue atop it. This is a prime spot for photos and to soak in the regal atmosphere. If you visit on a Wednesday or Friday, you’ll likely catch the Changing of the Guard, a colorful and traditional ceremony that adds a touch of pomp to your morning walk. Reviewers like Beverley_T raved about guide Nicholas’s knowledge during this segment, praising his ability to answer questions and share fascinating details.

Green Park: A Breath of Fresh Air

Next, you’ll step into Green Park, a favorite local hangout filled with squirrels and lush greenery. This tranquil spot provides a nice break from the crowds, and it’s where many visitors appreciate the chance to ask casual questions or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Reviewers noted that guides often share useful tips about nearby attractions here, making it a practical stop.

Royal Residences and Historic Palaces

Onward, the tour visits Clarence House—the official residence of HRH Charles III—where a quick glance through the gates reveals more guards. This is followed by St. James’s Palace, dating back to Tudor times, which is perhaps London’s oldest royal residence. While no inside visits are included, the guide’s stories and historical context make these stops more meaningful. Visitors have highlighted guides’ ability to weave stories that bring these historic buildings to life, making every stop more than just a photo op.

Parks and Monuments: A mix of Scenery and History

The walk continues into St. James’s Park, one of London’s oldest parks, once used for royal hunting. Here, you’ll enjoy a short break for snacks or restroom visits and observe the park’s abundant birdlife, including curious squirrels. Next, statues like the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Memorial and the Duke of York Column offer a chance to learn about the figures who shaped UK history. Reviewers appreciated the guides’ engaging storytelling and their ability to connect past and present.

Architectural Marvels and Government District

Moving forward, Admiralty Arch marks the transition from the royal park to city streets. This grand structure connects the Mall to Trafalgar Square and is a standout piece of architecture. On the way, you might see the Royal Cavalry Guards at Horse Guards Parade—a perfect photo opportunity, especially if the schedule aligns with their routines, as some reviews mention.

Whitehall is next—home to government buildings along a street that once housed Whitehall Palace. Here, you’ll pass 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence. While you can’t go inside, the guide shares interesting facts about its history and current role, making the photo opportunity well worth it. Reviewers loved hearing insider stories about political London, adding a modern twist to the royal-focused stops.

Westminister: Heart of Political Power

The tour culminates at the Houses of Parliament and the Palace of Westminster, two of London’s most recognizable landmarks. The clock tower, famously known as Big Ben, is just a short walk away and offers iconic photo moments. Guides provide historical context and fun facts about Britain’s parliamentary system, which many visitors found both educational and entertaining.

Final Stop: The Coronation Site

The last stop is Westminster Abbey, the site of royal coronations since 1066. While not part of the tour itinerary itself, the proximity allows for a quick glimpse and appreciation of its significance. The tour ends at the Sir Winston Churchill statue on Parliament Square, a fitting spot for reflecting on Britain’s history.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Knowledgeable Guides: Based on reviews, guides like Nicholas are engaging storytellers who go above and beyond to answer questions and share personal insights. Many guests mention how their guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge enhanced their experience, transforming a simple walk into a memorable history lesson.

Authentic London Experience: The tour is designed to give a true sense of the city’s royal and political heart, avoiding overly commercialized attractions. Walking through historic parks, seeing the guards, and passing government buildings make this a genuinely local experience.

Cost and Value: At just over $41 per person, the tour offers a lot of value. It covers a wide range of sights, includes insider tips, and allows time for breaks and questions. Since entrance tickets are not included, visitors should budget separately if they wish to enter specific attractions, but the walk itself packs a punch in sightseeing.

Flexibility and Accessibility: The tour runs on specific days for guard change views, making timing an important factor to catch the ceremony. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with prams, but might not be ideal for people with mobility issues, given the walking distance and some uneven paths.

Practical Details and Tips

Meeting Point & Duration: Starting at the Machine Gun Corps Memorial and ending at Parliament Square, the tour lasts approximately 2 hours 15 minutes. You’ll cover a lot of ground, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Group Size & Atmosphere: Small groups (less than 20) ensure you get personalized attention. Guests often praise the friendly, energetic guides who create an engaging and informal atmosphere.

Best Days & Timing: To see the Changing of the Guard, plan your booking on a Wednesday or Friday. The tour’s timing aligns well with this, but remember, guard ceremonies are weather-dependent.

Extras: The tour includes a quick snack and toilet break, perfect for a mid-morning refresh. You’ll want to bring your own water and perhaps a camera to capture the sights.

Who Is This Tour For?

This walk is ideal for visitors wanting an introductory overview of London’s royal, political, and historic landmarks. It’s suited for first-timers eager to see the city’s key sights without the hassle of navigating public transportation alone. History buffs will appreciate the in-depth stories, while casual travelers can enjoy the relaxed pace and scenic stops.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy small-group experiences, with guides who are eager to share local insights and answer questions. If you’re interested in catching the Guard Change or exploring the city’s central parks and palaces, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for a reasonable price.

The Sum Up

This 2-hour walking tour from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben hits a sweet spot for travelers seeking a comprehensive, manageable introduction to London’s most famous sights. The combination of expert guides, intimate group size, and authentic landmarks makes it a standout choice for those wanting a relaxed yet informative stroll through the city’s royal and political core.

You’ll love the way the guide’s storytelling brings each monument alive, and the chance to see traditional ceremonies like the Guard Change adds extra charm. The tour offers fantastic value, especially when considering the amount of ground covered and insights shared—perfect for first-time visitors or even locals looking to rediscover their city.

While you’ll need to budget separately for inside visits, the walk alone delivers plenty of photo-worthy moments, interesting history, and local color. It’s a well-paced, friendly experience that promises to deepen your appreciation of London’s unique character.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many guests have found guides to be engaging with kids, and the small group size keeps it manageable and fun for all ages.

Does the tour include inside visits?
No, entrance tickets aren’t included, so if you want to go inside attractions like Buckingham Palace or the Houses of Parliament, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

What days is the tour best for seeing the Changing of the Guard?
Tours booked on Wednesday and Friday are more likely to coincide with the Guard Change ceremony, weather permitting.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, covering numerous sights and stops along the way.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
While most travelers can participate, it’s not specifically recommended for those with mobility challenges due to walking distances and some uneven paths.

Can I bring my pram or pushchair?
Absolutely, the tour allows guests to bring prams, making it family-friendly.

Is this tour good for locals?
Yes, many locals enjoy taking the tour to learn or re-familiarize themselves with London’s landmarks and history.

Where does the tour end?
The walk concludes at the Sir Winston Churchill statue on Parliament Square, near Westminster and Big Ben.

This guided walk offers a relaxed, insightful way to discover London’s iconic sights, blending history, ceremony, and local stories into an engaging two-hour experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local rediscovering your city, it’s a walk worth taking.