Combi Ticket: Westminster Walking Tour, River Cruise & The Shard

Explore London’s iconic sights with the Combi Ticket, an unforgettable experience that combines a guided Westminster walking tour, a scenic river cruise, and a visit to the breathtaking viewpoint of The Shard. Starting from a convenient location near the Ritz Hotel, this comprehensive package allows you to discover the city’s most famous landmarks, witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and enjoy panoramic vistas from the top of one of the world’s tallest buildings. With so much to see and do, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Good To Know

• This combined ticket offers a guided walking tour of Westminster, a Thames River cruise, and admission to the Shard’s observation decks.
• The walking tour covers over 20 notable sights, including witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
• The Thames River cruise showcases iconic landmarks along the riverfront, providing unobstructed views of the city skyline.
• The Shard’s observation decks on floors 68-72 offer panoramic views of London’s skyline, including landmarks like Tower Bridge and the financial district.
• The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located outside the Ritz Hotel, with easy access to the Green Park Underground station.

Discover Westminster on Foot

The guided walking tour of Westminster begins at a convenient location near the iconic Ritz Hotel, where visitors can easily meet the knowledgeable tour guide.

During the tour, guests will explore over 20 notable sights in the historic neighborhood, including Parliament Square, which offers panoramic views of iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

The walking tour also includes a chance to witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, providing an immersive glimpse into the city’s rich history and traditions.

This comprehensive introduction to Westminster sets the stage for the upcoming river cruise and visit to The Shard, offering a well-rounded perspective of London.

Majestic Views From the Shard

After exploring the historic streets and landmarks of Westminster on foot, participants embark on the next stage of their immersive London experience – ascending to the dazzling heights of The Shard. From the observation decks on floors 68-72, visitors are treated to 360-degree panoramic views of the city skyline. The Shard’s transparent glass facade offers an unobstructed perspective, allowing guests to marvel at iconic sights like Tower Bridge, the River Thames, and the City of London’s financial district. This bird’s-eye view provides a unique vantage point to appreciate London’s architectural wonders and vibrant urban landscape.

Shard Observation Decks	Height	Viewing Angle
Floor 68	244 m / 800 ft	240 degrees
Floor 69	245 m / 804 ft	360 degrees
Floors 70-72	245 m / 804 ft	360 degrees

Cruising Along the Thames

Following the walking tour of Westminster and the majestic views from The Shard, participants embark on a relaxing Thames River cruise.

This segment of the package offers a unique perspective of London, showcasing iconic landmarks from the water.

The river cruise:

• Departs from Westminster Pier, providing convenient access from the walking tour.
• Travels along the River Thames, passing by sights such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the London Eye.
• Offers unobstructed views of the city skyline and riverfront architecture.
• Lasts approximately 30 minutes, allowing ample time to admire the scenery.
• Is a stress-free way to experience another facet of the capital’s landscape.

Changing of the Guard Ceremony

During the Westminster walking tour, participants have the opportunity to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony.

This time-honored tradition takes place at Buckingham Palace, where the Queen’s royal guards march in perfect synchronization to meticulously choreographed music.

Visitors can observe the solemn ritual as the new guard takes over from the old, a display of British military pageantry that has captivated audiences for centuries.

The tour guide provides insight into the history and significance of this ceremonial event, allowing participants to fully appreciate the pomp and circumstance of this quintessential London experience.

Iconic Sights in Parliament Square

As the walking tour progresses, participants sit in Parliament Square to take in the iconic sights surrounding them.

This historic square is home to:

• The Houses of Parliament, including the iconic Big Ben clock tower
• Westminster Abbey, a renowned Gothic-style church and royal wedding venue
• The Supreme Court of the United Kingdom
• Statues honoring political figures like Sir Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela
• The Victoria Tower Gardens, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city

These landmarks provide a glimpse into the nation’s rich political and cultural heritage, setting the stage for an immersive experience through the heart of Westminster.

Convenient Meeting and Pickup Location

The meeting point for this tour is conveniently located outside The Ritz London at 150 Piccadilly, W1J 9BR.

The location is easy to recognize, with two red telephone boxes and souvenir stands nearby. The nearest tube station is Green Park Underground, providing easy access.

The walking tour guide won’t accompany participants on the river cruise or at The Shard, so travelers can explore those activities independently.

The cancellation policy allows for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience.

For any inquiries, visitors can refer to the Viator Help Centre, using the product code 75760P286 for reference.

What Travelers Are Saying

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight travelers’ enjoyment of this comprehensive tour.

The experience has earned a stellar 4.5-star rating based on feedback from Viator and Tripadvisor. Reviewers praise the tour as a "well-organized and memorable day out", perfect for first-time visitors seeking a stress-free introduction to London.

Key highlights include:

• An engaging and knowledgeable tour guide
• Seamless timing for the ferry and The Shard
• Stunning panoramic views from the highest vantage point
• A family-friendly experience that caters to all ages
• Excellent value for the range of activities included

The continuous monitoring of reviews ensures authenticity, giving travelers confidence in booking this guided tour that provides three unique perspectives of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Walking Tour Suitable for Visitors With Mobility Issues?

The walking tour may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues, as it covers over 20 notable sights in Westminster. However, the package also includes a river cruise and admission to The Shard, which may be more accessible options.

What Languages Are the Tour Guides Available In?

The tour guides are available in English, with no specific information provided about other language options. Customers should inquire about language availability when booking to ensure the tour meets their needs.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

The tour cannot be customized for specific interests. It is a fixed package that provides a comprehensive introduction to London’s top sights and experiences. However, the small group size allows for a more personalized experience during the walking tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The package offers no discounts, but it provides a convenient combo deal that combines three popular London experiences for one price. Travelers can save by booking the package rather than purchasing the activities separately.

How Long Does the Entire Experience Take From Start to Finish?

The entire experience typically takes around 4-5 hours to complete. The walking tour, river cruise, and visit to The Shard can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, providing a comprehensive introduction to London’s top sights.

Sum Up

The Combi Ticket offers a comprehensive London experience, combining a guided walking tour, river cruise, and visit to the iconic Shard. With stunning views, iconic landmarks, and convenient logistics, it’s an unmissable opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and breathtaking sights. Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, this excursion promises an unforgettable day in the heart of the British capital.