London: Buckingham Palace and Tea at The Clermont Hotel

When it comes to iconic London experiences, few things match the allure of Buckingham Palace, especially when you can walk through its 19 State Rooms and enjoy a delightful afternoon tea afterward. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, numerous reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what to expect.

This tour stands out because it offers a rare peek behind the scenes of one of the world’s most famous royal residences, complemented by a quintessentially British tradition—afternoon tea. It’s perfect for travelers eager to combine cultural sightseeing with a refined culinary treat.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers found the logistics a bit cumbersome, especially with the ticket collection process and the walk between venues. Still, if you’re a fan of regal history, good food, and a structured yet flexible schedule, this experience could be just the ticket.

This tour is best suited for those who want a balanced blend of sightseeing and leisure, especially if you appreciate historical grandeur and a comfortable, relaxed tea session afterward.

Good To Know

• Exclusive Access: Visit all 19 State Rooms and the Garden at Buckingham Palace—rarely open to the public.
• Well-Curated Experience: Includes an audio guide for a richer understanding of the rooms and treasures.
• Cultural and Culinary Combo: Combines a palace tour with a traditional afternoon tea, offering great value.
• Logistical Details: Requires ticket collection from a pub and self-navigation between sites.
• Authentic & Elegant: Features artworks by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck, plus exquisite furniture.
• Mixed Reviews: While some praise the value and guides, others mention logistical frustrations.

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Exploring the Experience: What to Expect

Starting Point – The Ticket Collection

The adventure begins at The Albert Pub on Victoria Street, where you exchange your digital voucher for a printed ticket between 12:00 and 12:45 PM. This step can feel a bit awkward for those expecting direct access—many reviews mention the lengthy ticket collection process and the need to navigate between the pub and the palace.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid any last-minute rush. The pub is only a nine-minute walk from Buckingham Palace, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes beforehand for smooth processing.

Tour of Buckingham Palace

The actual palace visit is scheduled at 13:30. You can expect to explore all 19 State Rooms, each furnished with impressive artworks, sculptures, and fine furnishings. The rooms are used for ceremonial occasions and formal entertaining, so they sparkle with treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck, along with sculptures by Canova and stunning examples of Sèvres porcelain.

Most reviewers agree that the rooms are beautifully maintained, with many describing the furnishings as some of the finest in England and France. The audio guide enhances the experience by pointing out details you might miss on your own, making the visit both educational and visually captivating.

The Gardens & Exterior

Though the gardens are only open for about 10 weeks each year, when available, they offer a peaceful retreat from the grandeur of the interior. Expect well-manicured lawns and views of the palace façade, perfect for photos and soaking in the royal atmosphere.

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The Logistics & Timing

One of the common pain points is the time gap—after the palace, you have to walk about 23 minutes along The Mall to reach The Clermont Hotel for your afternoon tea. Some reviews suggest this wait could be better communicated or streamlined, especially for those unfamiliar with London’s walking distances.

Afternoon Tea at The Clermont Hotel

At 4:00 PM, you’ll arrive at The Clermont Hotel, Charing Cross, where a traditional Afternoon Tea awaits. The menu includes delicious finger sandwiches—cucumber, ham, egg mayo, smoked salmon—alongside freshly baked scones with strawberry jam and Cornish clotted cream. Decadent cakes like Eton Mess, Victoria Sponge, and Chocolate & Orange Tart complete the offering.

Reviewers have found the quality of the tea and pastries to be quite good, often praising the variety of herbal and leaf teas, including English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Darjeeling, and others. Many comment on the generous portion sizes, making it a satisfying conclusion to the day.

Practical Considerations

While the experience provides entrance to Buckingham Palace, access to the gardens, and a delicious afternoon tea, it’s important to note that transportation between venues is not included. Travelers will need to plan accordingly, especially since some have found the walk between the palace and the hotel a bit long.

The Realities of the Tour: What Travelers Are Saying

Some reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and good value for money, especially considering access to the State Rooms and the quality of the tea. One reviewer from the UK shared that they found the experience “good” overall, appreciating the chance to see the palace interiors and the treasures inside.

However, others expressed frustration with logistical aspects. A reviewer from Norway mentioned that the ticketing process felt disorganized and that the itinerary was exhausting. “You have to find the pub, then go to the palace, then walk to the hotel,” they noted, suggesting that the sequence could be improved.

Several travelers commented on the long wait to get real tickets at the palace entrance, with some feeling the advertised audioguide was redundant since it’s automatically included with the ticket. Others wished for more clarity about where to eat and shop around the palace, as some found the information lacking.

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

At $107 per person for a four-hour experience, this tour offers solid value, especially for those interested in royal history and fine art. The combination of access to the State Rooms, the art treasures, and a traditionally served afternoon tea makes it a package that’s appealing for visitors who want a taste of luxury without paying the hefty premium of an all-day guided tour.

If you consider the entry fees for similar attractions and the cost of a high-quality afternoon tea in London, this experience provides a balanced mix at a reasonable price point. That said, the self-guided nature and logistical steps might seem cumbersome for some, especially if they prefer seamless, guided experiences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, art lovers, and those seeking a quintessentially British afternoon. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind a bit of walking and are comfortable managing their own logistics.

If you’re looking for an authentic, elegant glimpse into royal life combined with delicious food, this journey hits the mark. It might not be perfect for travelers who prefer guided tours with minimal planning or those who dislike logistical hurdles, but for the right crowd, it’s a memorable way to spend part of a London day.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a unique peek behind the gates of Buckingham Palace, paired with a classic British afternoon tea, making it a well-rounded cultural experience. The access to the State Rooms and treasures is a significant highlight, offering insight into royal grandeur that’s rare to see firsthand.

While the ticket collection process and walking distances can be frustrating, many find the experience still worth it for the chance to see world-famous art and enjoy a luxurious teatime. The knowledgeable guides and good quality food enhance the experience, creating a special day out.

For travelers who value history, art, and authentic English traditions, this experience is a solid choice that combines education, elegance, and leisure in one package. Just be prepared for some logistical planning and a bit of walking.

FAQ

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You must collect your voucher at The Albert pub before the tour date.

What time does the palace visit start?
The palace entry is scheduled at 1:30 PM, so plan to arrive early at The Albert pub.

Is transportation between the venues included?
No, you need to make your own way between Buckingham Palace and The Clermont Hotel, which is about a 23-minute walk along The Mall.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers entrance to Buckingham Palace, access to all 19 State Rooms and the garden, an audio guide, and afternoon tea at The Clermont Hotel.

Are the audioguide and guided tour the same?
The tour includes an audio guide for self-guided exploration; it is not a live guided experience.

Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?
No, photography inside the State Rooms is not permitted.

What’s the dress code?
There’s no official dress code, but smart casual is recommended given the formal setting.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most reviews focus on adult visitors, but families with older children interested in history and art would likely enjoy the experience.

In sum, the Buckingham Palace and afternoon tea tour offers a taste of royal elegance combined with a relaxing culinary experience. With a balance of cultural insight and refined indulgence, it’s a nice option for those wanting a memorable London highlight—just be prepared for some logistical steps along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby