Changing of the Guard, Westminster Abbey & Tower of London Tour

If you’re short on time but eager to soak up the essentials of London, this full-day guided tour might just be your best bet. Covering highlights like Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, the Changing of the Guard, a scenic Thames River cruise, and the Tower of London, it offers an efficient way to see the city’s most iconic sites. With a 5-star reputation based on over 80 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find great value in this experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the priority access to major landmarks means less time waiting in lines. Second, the skilled guides bring stories and insights that make history come alive. Third, the combination of walking, cruising, and guided exploration keeps the day varied and engaging.

One thing to consider is the length and walking demands—it’s quite a full day, and comfortable shoes are a must. This tour best suits travelers who are excited about seeing a lot in a short time, don’t mind some walking, and want a knowledgeable guide to navigate the details.

If you’re visiting London for the first time or want a rundown with insider tips, this experience fits well. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy a structured itinerary that helps maximize limited time without feeling rushed.

Good To Know

• Efficient sightseeing in one day, covering London’s top attractions
• Skip-the-line access to Westminster Abbey and Tower of London
• Expert guides with real historical knowledge and engaging stories
• Varied experience with walking, boat cruise, and guided tours
• Good value considering the inclusions like tickets and cruise
• Full day of activity, suitable for energetic travelers comfortable with walking

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour is designed for those who want to get a broad yet detailed snapshot of London’s most famous sights without dedicating multiple days. It’s a well-structured combination of sightseeing and storytelling, allowing guests to learn and see in a single, action-packed day.

Starting Point: Parliament Square

You’ll kick off around Parliament Square, giving you a glimpse of Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster before heading inside Westminster Abbey. This initial stop is perfect for setting the scene, and the short 15-minute walk from the meeting point makes it accessible. Plus, the fact that the tour offers skip-the-line tickets is a big plus, saving you potentially long waits.

Westminster Abbey

The highlight here is the expertly guided tour of Westminster Abbey, where your guide will highlight its significance beyond just its beauty. You’ll walk through the sanctuary where nearly 40 coronations have taken place, and where Princess Diana’s funeral was held. The guide’s commentary makes the experience much more meaningful, transforming what could be just a pretty church into a vivid history lesson.

Multiple reviewers praise guides like Dan and AnaMaria for their humor, patience, and ability to answer questions. One reviewer mentioned how AnaMaria took time to ensure everyone got a great view of the Changing of the Guard and even offered to take photos—these little touches elevate the experience.

10 Downing Street and St. James’s Park

From Westminster, you’ll pass by 10 Downing Street, a quick exterior peek at the UK Prime Minister’s residence. While not open for tours, the exterior view provides a sense of political history. Then, a short walk takes you through St. James’s Park, a lovely green space that provides a breath of fresh air amidst bustling London streets. This makes for a scenic, relaxing transition towards Buckingham Palace.

Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

Next up is the iconic Buckingham Palace, where your guide will share stories about the Royal residence and its history. If your visit coincides with scheduled days, you’ll witness the Changing of the Guard — a traditional, ceremonial spectacle that symbolizes the continuity of British monarchy.

Travelers like Linda and Zefiro mentioned how well guides knew where to stand for the best views and even offered tips for photos. However, do note that the Changing of the Guard occurs only on specific days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. On other days, the ceremony is at Horse Guards Parade, and weather can sometimes impact these plans, as a reviewer noted experiencing rain that delayed or canceled the ceremony.

Lunch Break & Free Time in Trafalgar Square

After this morning packed with sights, there’s a 30-minute break for lunch, giving guests the chance to relax, grab a bite, and recharge. The tour guides are happy to recommend local eateries or cafes around Trafalgar Square, which is a perfect central spot for a quick meal and people-watching.

Thames River Cruise

Post-lunch, you’ll board a scenic cruise along the Thames on a comfortable, air-conditioned boat. This 30-minute journey offers a different perspective of London, with views of Westminster, London Eye, and Tower Bridge. Multiple reviews commend the professional guides on board, noting how they point out buildings and landmarks, making this part both relaxing and educational.

Though some reviewers liked the cruise, a few felt it could be longer or more engaging. Still, the cruise adds a refreshing change from walking and offers excellent photo opportunities.

Tower of London and Crown Jewels

The last major stop is the Tower of London, where an expert guide takes you through its legendary history, from William the Conqueror’s Norman fortress to its role as a prison and royal treasury. Highlights include tales of prisoners, executions, and the famous Crown Jewels.

The tour inside the Tower lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll explore the White Tower and the Crown Jewels exhibit. The jewels, with over 23,000 sparkling stones, are a true spectacle. One reviewer described the experience as dazzling, emphasizing how the collection symbolizes centuries of monarchy.

You’ll also have some free time to explore the Tower on your own after the guided tour. The guide offers insider tips, ensuring you don’t miss hidden corners or interesting facts.

How the Experience Breaks Down

The tour is priced at $159.95, which includes skip-the-line tickets for Westminster Abbey and Tower of London, the Thames River cruise, and guided tours. Given the cost of individual tickets, especially for Westminster Abbey and the Tower, plus the convenience of a guided experience, it offers good value.

The group size is capped at 20, allowing for personalized attention and a more relaxed pace. The use of headsets means everyone gets clear commentary, even when the group spreads out for better views, which reviewers appreciated.

While the day is packed, reviews show most guests felt the itinerary was well-balanced. The 90-minute break helps prevent fatigue, and the flexibility to explore the Tower afterward means you can tailor your visit.

Practical Considerations

Be prepared for a lot of walking — some reviews mention walking nearly 4 miles in a day, with plenty of steps. Comfortably fitting shoes and water are essentials. For those less used to long days on their feet, this could be a challenging day, but the pace is generally manageable with breaks.

The tour runs rain or shine, so bringing an umbrella or raincoat is recommended. Several guests praised guides like Stephen and Rick for keeping spirits high despite weather challenges.

Timing is key; the Changing of the Guard days vary depending on the schedule, and weather can sometimes cause cancellations. The tour provider updates these plans as needed, but it’s worth checking beforehand if the Guard ceremony is a priority for you.

Transportation and Group Size

The entire experience is walk-focused, with transportation only provided via the river cruise. The small group setting makes it easier to navigate busy spots and get personalized attention from your guide.

Additional Info

• The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan accordingly.
• It’s suitable for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level due to the walking.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for change of plans.

Final Thoughts

This tour is an ideal choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of central London without the hassle of planning each site individually. The combination of guided sightseeing, skip-the-line access, a Thames cruise, and insider tips makes it both convenient and educational.

The guides consistently receive praise for their knowledge, humor, and ability to make history come alive. The scheduled stops are carefully selected to include the city’s most iconic landmarks, with enough free time for eating and personal exploration.

While it’s a long day with significant walking, the inclusion of breaks and the varied modes of transport keep it from feeling overwhelming. It’s best suited for active visitors eager to maximize their limited time in London, especially those who appreciate detailed storytelling and expert guidance.

Most importantly, the experience offers excellent value for money, considering the inclusions and the convenience of a carefully curated itinerary. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a quick overview, this tour promises a memorable, well-rounded introduction to London’s grandeur.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pick-up or drop-off?
No, the tour does not provide hotel transport. You’ll meet at Parliament Square and finish at the Tower of London.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, covering multiple major sights with walking, cruising, and guided explanations.

What landmarks are included in the tour?
You’ll visit Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, see the Changing of the Guard, cruise the Thames, and explore the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels.

Are tickets for Westminster Abbey and Tower of London included?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets for both are included in the tour price.

Is the Changing of the Guard guaranteed?
Not always. The ceremony occurs on specific days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. On other days, the Guard change happens at Horse Guards Parade. Weather can also affect the schedule.

How much walking should I expect?
Be prepared to walk about 4 miles in total, with some steep or uneven sections. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

What is the group size?
The maximum group is 20 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Can I explore the Tower of London on my own afterwards?
Yes, after the guided tour, you’re free to explore the Tower further at your own pace.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a raincoat or umbrella if needed, and some money for optional snacks or souvenirs.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is well-planned but can be adjusted if certain elements, like the Guard ceremony, are canceled or delayed due to weather or scheduling.

To sum it up, this Changing of the Guard, Westminster Abbey & Tower of London tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience London’s most famous sites efficiently. It’s perfect for active travelers who value expert guides, skip-the-line access, and a mix of walking and cruising — all packed into one memorable day.