London: Kensington Palace Afternoon Tea & Guided Walk

Imagine strolling through the lush, historic gardens of Kensington Palace before settling into a cozy orangery for a quintessential British afternoon tea. This experience, offered by Top Tasting Tours, promises a combination of scenic beauty, royal stories, and delicious bites in one well-rounded package. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what makes it a special outing for lovers of history, gardens, and fine food.

We love the intimate guided walk in Kensington Gardens, which offers a chance to learn about royal connections and admire the expertly curated landscape. The afternoon tea in the Queen Anne’s Orangery is another highlight, renowned for its high-quality sandwiches, scones, and cakes. Plus, the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach consistently earn praise from travelers, making the experience educational yet relaxed.

One thing to consider is the walking component, which involves about an hour of strolling — so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a blend of outdoor exploration, history, and a leisurely meal, rather than a fast-paced sightseeing rush.

Overall, if you’re looking for a refined, culturally enriching experience that combines London’s royal history with a delicious traditional tea, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to indulge in a bit of royal elegance with expert guidance.

Good To Know

• Balanced Experience: Combines scenic garden walk with a classic afternoon tea.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and personable guides enhance the story behind Kensington Palace and Gardens.
• Authentic Setting: The Orangery provides a charming backdrop for tea, with options accommodating dietary preferences.
• Convenient Location: Starting point outside Queensway Station makes it easy to access.
• Value for Money: At $169 per person, you get a full experience — guided walking, entry (if selected), and a luxurious tea service.
• Accessibility Tip: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments, due to walking involved.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point at Queensway Station

The meeting spot is outside Queensway Underground Station (Stop B). It’s a familiar, central location in South East England, next to the currency exchange booth, with a red phone box and a red post box nearby. Guides are easy to spot, and the group size tends to be small, creating a more personalized experience.

Guided Walk in Kensington Gardens

This part lasts approximately 50 minutes. You’ll wander through the gardens that surround Kensington Palace, famed for their beauty and historical significance. Reviewers mention the ornate water features and well-maintained flower beds, which provide perfect photo opportunities.

Guides like Doug, Simon, and Paul are repeatedly praised for their wealth of knowledge. One reviewer noted, “Doug shared lots of interesting facts and even had a cup of tea with us,” highlighting how guides go beyond mere facts to create a friendly, engaging atmosphere. Another appreciated the easy walk, perfect even for those with mobility challenges, as one reviewer with a wheelchair confirmed.

Royal Stories and Garden Highlights

The tour isn’t just about pretty scenery. Guides share insights into notable royal figures like Princess Diana, Queen Victoria, and Prince Albert, making the history tangible. Guests appreciate the personalized storytelling — one reviewer said, “Doug explained everything with humor and a touch of wit,” which makes the history come alive.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Garden’s Key Attractions

Expect to see the Sunken Garden, fountains, and statues, many of which have royal connections. Several travelers mention the care taken in maintaining the grounds, enhancing the experience’s authenticity and visual appeal.

Transition to Afternoon Tea

After the garden walk, you’ll move indoors to the Queen Anne’s Orangery, a beautiful historic space created by Queen Anne in the 18th century. The atmosphere is described as elegant yet cozy, with large windows overlooking the gardens.

The Tea Service

Pre-booked and served at your private table, the tea experience includes a wide variety of high-quality teas (with vegan and vegetarian options available). The selection features British-style sandwiches like smoked salmon with cream cheese, roast ham with mustard, and cucumber with mint.

The scones, made with Welsh butter and filled with cream and jam, are consistently praised for their freshness and richness. Guests also rave about the delicate afternoon tea cakes, which add a sweet touch to the meal.

Additional Drinks and Atmosphere

Guests can order extra drinks if desired, with some reviews noting the sparkling wine option as a special treat. The setting and attentive service turn the tea into a truly indulgent experience, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This experience caters to those who appreciate history and nature, with a leisurely pace that allows time to soak in the beauty and stories. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it highly engaging, and the high-quality tea and food elevate the overall outing.

It’s especially good for couples celebrating a special occasion, history buffs, or anyone wanting to enjoy a refined, yet informal, taste of royal London. The outdoor component and charming orangery create memorable photo opportunities, while the intimate guide interactions foster a more authentic feel.

The Value of This Experience

At $169 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded package: guided garden walk, entry to Kensington Palace (if chosen), and a sumptuous afternoon tea. Reviewers highlight that guides are friendly, well-informed, and capable of customizing the experience to your pace and interests.

Considering the quality of the food, the scenic gardens, and the expert storytelling, many find the price reasonable — especially compared to other royal or garden tours that might not include a meal or personal guide.

However, it’s not a quick visit — with total durations of 2 to 4 hours, it suits those seeking a relaxed, immersive experience rather than a hurried sightseeing dash.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes: The garden walk involves about an hour of strolling on varied terrain.
• Check the weather: Bring an umbrella or raincoat, as London weather can be unpredictable.
• Arrive on time: The meeting point is straightforward but punctuality is appreciated.
• Dietary needs: Vegetarian and vegan options are available — specify when booking.
• Mobility considerations: The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts and garden lovers who want to combine sightseeing with a refined meal. It’s perfect for small groups or couples looking for a special, intimate outing that balances education and indulgence.

If you enjoy guided walks with insightful commentary and appreciate an elegant setting for afternoon tea, this tour delivers on those fronts. It’s not just about seeing the sights — it’s about experiencing them in a relaxed, personalized way.

While it might seem on the pricier side, the combination of expert guides, beautiful scenery, and delicious food makes it a memorable value for those wanting a taste of royalty without the crowds.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees your spot, especially since this tour often runs with small groups. You can reserve now and pay later, which adds flexibility to your plans.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour begins at the outside of Queensway Station. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to this location.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and dietary needs should be specified when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts between 2 to 4 hours, with approximately 50 minutes for the garden walk and around an hour for the tea service.

Is entry to Kensington Palace included?
Entry to the palace can be included if you select that option at booking, but it’s not automatically part of the standard package.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most reviews focus on adult guests. It involves about an hour of walking and a relaxed tea setting, so children who enjoy gardens and history could enjoy it, but note that it may not be tailored for very young kids or those with mobility challenges.

This tour offers a lovely blend of royal gardens, engaging storytelling, and a proper British afternoon tea. Whether you’re a history buff, a garden enthusiast, or simply looking for a classy way to spend an afternoon in London, it’s a charming and well-reviewed experience worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: