London: Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard Tour

Exploring London’s Royal and Historic Heart: A Review of the Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard Tour

When it comes to visiting London, few experiences capture the city’s regal charm and vibrant streets quite like a guided tour that combines iconic landmarks with hidden gems. This private walking tour, offered by Luxendria, promises a personalized journey through London’s most recognizable sights, with a focus on Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard.

What we love about this experience is its blend of classic sights with insider stories, the opportunity to snap perfect photos, and the fact that it’s tailored to your pace and interests. Plus, the guide’s local insights often reveal small details you won’t find in any guidebook—like the quiet alleyways and scenic viewpoints that give London a more personal touch.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour involves a fair amount of walking and some public transport, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy exploring on foot and don’t mind a bit of a pace. It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to see the main sights and uncover some lesser-known corners of London.

If you’re after a flexible, fun, and informative way to get to know London’s royal and historic districts, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Customizable experience: Pick-up from your accommodation or meet at a central location.
• Expert local guides: Guides like Lucia, James, and Steven are highly praised for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge.
• Authentic and photo-worthy sights: From Buckingham Palace to hidden viewpoints, perfect for capturing memories.
• Balance of main sights and secrets: See major landmarks with stories, plus discover quiet corners most travelers miss.
• Flexible duration and transport options: Ranges from 2 to 5 hours, with options to hop on public transport or upgrade to private vehicle.
• Excellent value: At just $37, many reviews describe it as “great value for money,” considering the depth and quality of the experience.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Personalization

The tour begins with a personalized pickup from your London accommodation, or you can opt to meet at a designated central spot. This flexibility makes the experience feel more tailored than a typical group tour, especially if you’re arriving early or staying in a less central area. The guide’s goal is to make every guest feel comfortable and engaged right from the start.

Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

One of the main highlights is definitely Buckingham Palace, the heart of the British monarchy. You’ll get a good look at the grand façade and often see the Changing of the Guard ceremony (on select days). Many reviews highlight how close and unobstructed the view is, thanks to the guide positioning everyone perfectly for photos.

Debra from the UK mentions, “The tour gave us front-row views of the Changing of the Guard and insider history that made London come alive.” Guides like Lucia and James are praised for their storytelling—adding context about the palace’s history, royal traditions, and amusing anecdotes about the guards’ routines.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Westminster and Royal Parks

From Buckingham Palace, the tour heads through St. James’s Park, one of London’s most beautiful royal parks. It’s the perfect spot for a quick stroll and photos of the palace reflected in the peaceful lake. The guide often shares lesser-known facts about the park’s history and wildlife, making it more than just a scenic backdrop.

Next, you’ll stroll past Horse Guards Parade and 10 Downing Street, where photo stops are arranged to capture the political heartbeat of London. Reviewers frequently mention how the guides use these stops to share stories about the British government’s history and current affairs, making the tour informative and engaging.

Westminster Abbey and Big Ben

The route includes Westminster Abbey, a site rich with royal ceremonies. While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees, the exterior views and stories about royal weddings and coronations add depth for first timers. Many guests mention that the guide’s commentary makes these historic sites feel alive, even from the outside.

Of course, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are staples of the London skyline. You’ll get to take plenty of photos, and the guide often points out interesting architectural details and behind-the-scenes stories. The views from the South Bank, especially near the London Eye, offer excellent angles for memorable pictures.

Hidden Corners and Local Secrets

Beyond the main landmarks, the tour is praised for revealing hidden corners and local secrets. These are places most travelers skip, like quiet alleyways, quirky statues, or scenic viewpoints overlooking the Thames. Many reviews highlight how these lesser-known spots give a fresh perspective and make the tour feel genuinely unique.

Borough Market and London Bridge

The itinerary also takes you near Borough Market, a foodie haven where you might want to pause for a snack or just enjoy the lively atmosphere. The walk over London Bridge is another favorite for its panoramic views and photo opportunities.

Flexibility and Group Size

With a private group option, the tour allows for a relaxed pace, and guides are known for their friendly, humorous approach. The experience can be tailored—whether you want to focus more on royal history, photography, or local stories. The option to hop on public transport or upgrade to private transport adds convenience, especially if you’re covering a lot of ground or traveling with family.

Duration and Price

The tour lasts between 2 to 5 hours, so you can choose a quick overview or a more leisurely exploration. At $37 per person, reviews frequently call it “great value for money,” considering the depth of knowledge shared and the personal touches.

Accessibility and Language Options

The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and many more, making it inclusive for diverse travelers.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Many guests, like Rovena from Switzerland, rave about their guides: “Lucia was a lovely guide, full of interesting information about Buckingham Palace and the royal family.” Others, such as Joe from the US, describe the guide’s friendliness and how they made the experience enjoyable and informative.

Several reviews mention how the guides’ storytelling brings the landmarks to life, with some even booking multiple days to see more, like Windsor Castle or other royal sites. The guides’ humor and knowledge seem to be a recurring highlight, making complex history accessible and fun.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• Knowledgeable guides who make history engaging, often sharing stories you won’t find in books or apps.
• Unbeatable photo opportunities, especially at Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and scenic viewpoints.
• Combination of major sights and hidden gems, giving you a well-rounded London experience.
• Excellent value for the price, especially considering the personalized touch and insider insights.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a first-time visitor eager to see London’s most famous symbols with a guide who can add context and humor, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who enjoy walking, learning stories behind the landmarks, and capturing great photos along the way. The private setup makes it adaptable for families, couples, or small groups who want an intimate experience.

For travelers on a budget, the price is quite reasonable given the amount covered and the personalized approach. If you prefer a more in-depth, structured visit to specific attractions like Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms or the Tower of London, you might want to supplement this tour with additional tickets.

This tour offers a smart blend of essentials and secrets, making your first trip to London both enjoyable and memorable.

FAQs

Does this tour include entrance fees?
No, the tour focuses on outside sights and stories. Entrance fees to sites like Buckingham Palace or Westminster Abbey are not included, so you can choose to explore these separately if interested.

Can I be picked up from my hotel?
Yes, the tour offers a personalized pick-up from your London accommodation, or you can meet at a central location if preferred.

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 2 to 5 hours, depending on your preferences and pace.

Can I upgrade the transportation?
Yes, there are options for private vehicle upgrades upon request. Otherwise, the tour involves walking and public transport.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and many others, with guides like James and Steven providing engaging commentary.

In summary, the Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard Tour by Luxendria presents an engaging, flexible way to experience London’s royal and historic highlights. With knowledgeable guides, stunning photo spots, and a good mix of landmarks and hidden corners, it offers excellent value for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. Whether you’re looking to tick off the must-see sights or discover some secret spots, this tour can be tailored just for you.

You can check if your dates are available here: