London: Buckingham Palace and Royal London Walking Tour

Traveling to London offers countless ways to experience its storied streets, but few tours promise as much regal insight as the Buckingham Palace and Royal London Walking Tour. Designed for those eager to understand the monarchy’s influence and history, this tour combines a lively guided walk with exclusive access inside one of the world’s most famous royal residences.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the knowledgeable guides who bring royal stories alive, and the chance to step inside the magnificent State Rooms at Buckingham Palace—something most visitors only dream about. The visit to the Royal Gardens adds a peaceful, surprisingly wild contrast to the bustling city.

One consideration worth noting is the duration: at around five hours, it’s a fairly full day, especially if you’re not used to walking for long stretches. Also, the tour operates only from Thursday to Monday, which may limit availability for some travelers.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, royal enthusiasts, or anyone looking to explore London’s most iconic royal sites with a local expert. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy a combination of walking, storytelling, and insider access.

Key Points

• In-Depth Royal Insights: Guided by an expert, you’ll learn fascinating details about King Charles III and his life.
• Exclusive Access: Enter Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms and Gardens, normally closed to the public.
• Historic Landmarks: See St. James’s Palace, the Horse Guards, and the Crown Estate, all woven into the royal narrative.
• Authentic London Experience: Walk through Westminster, passing famous sights like Westminster Abbey on your way.
• Flexible Options: Fully refundable with 24 hours’ notice, allowing peace of mind.
• Value for Money: For around $60, you get a comprehensive tour plus access to the Palace, making it a good deal for royal fans.

If you’re intrigued by the monarchy or just looking for a well-rounded introduction to London’s royal side, this tour offers a lot of value. It’s not just a walk; it’s a chance to understand how the royal family has shaped the city and, by extension, British culture.

The tour starts at The King’s Gallery outside Buckingham Palace, a grand spot that sets the tone. From there, your guide—a real connoisseur of royal lore—takes you on a roughly two-hour stroll through Westminster and nearby areas.

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Walking Through Royal Landmarks

Expect a relaxed pace as your guide points out the St James’s Palace, where the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall once lived, and shares stories about royal staff and traditions. You might catch a glimpse of the changing of the guard, a spectacle that’s both colorful and steeped in ceremony, and learn why it’s such a British institution.

Passing by The Horse Guards, you’ll see the ceremonial barracks and discover fun facts like where the Queen Mother bought her cigarettes—little details that make history feel immediate and personal. The guide also highlights Royal Warrants on Jermyn Street, revealing where the Royal Family sources their luxury goods—think about that next time you’re shopping in London.

The Royal Warrant and Food Culture

This part of the tour is especially engaging, as it reveals the luxurious side of royal service—and the history of British food traditions like cream teas, which your guide will explain with a dash of humor. Such anecdotes add flavor (pun intended) to the overall experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Inside Buckingham Palace

After about two hours of walking and storytelling, the group reconvenes at Buckingham Palace for your entry at 12:30 PM. Here, the value of this tour really shines. The State Rooms are beautifully furnished with fine French and English antique furniture, and the Royal Collection includes works by Rubens, Canaletto, and Rembrandt.

While photography inside the Palace is not allowed, you’ll be given a multimedia guide, which enriches your visit with descriptions of each room’s significance. The Golden Staircase, the Throne Room, and the Royal Ballroom are highlights, each revealing a glimpse of royal life that visitors rarely see.

Exploring the Gardens

The tour concludes with a walk through the Buckingham Palace Gardens, a surprisingly tranquil spot in the middle of London. It’s home to 30 bird species and hundreds of wildflowers, providing a peaceful break from the urban rush.

With a 3.9-star rating based on 61 reviews, this tour is well-liked but has room for improvement. Guide knowledgeability is frequently praised—many reviewers mention their guide’s entertaining and informative storytelling. One noted, “We loved the way our guide made the history come alive,” highlighting how engaging guides can make or break the experience.

A common plus is the combination of walking, storytelling, and palace access. The inclusion of the multimedia guide at Buckingham Palace is a nice touch, providing context that helps visitors appreciate the grandeur of the State Rooms and Gardens. The affordability—around $60—makes it a good deal considering the inside access, especially when compared to individual ticket prices for Buckingham Palace.

Some reviews point out that the walking portion can be a bit long, especially in warm weather, so comfortable shoes are essential. Also, as the tour only runs from Thursday to Monday, availability might be limited, so plan ahead.

Starting at The King’s Gallery, you’re immediately immersed in royal symbolism. From there, the guide leads you through Westminster, passing iconic sites like Westminster Abbey, which isn’t included in the tour but is visible en route. You’ll learn about the Royal Warrant holders on Jermyn Street—some of London’s most luxurious shops and restaurants that serve the Royal Family.

St James’s Palace is another highlight, with its distinctive architecture and history. Your guide shares stories about royal residences and traditions, making the architecture and site history more engaging.

Passing by Fortnum & Mason, the famous department store, you’ll hear about British tradition—particularly the cream tea, a staple of afternoon tea culture. This stops the tour from feeling like just a history lesson; it connects the past to modern London life.

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Inside Buckingham Palace

The State Rooms are the crown jewel. They’re used for official entertaining, and their lavish furnishings reflect centuries of royal refinement. Viewing artworks by masters like Rubens and Rembrandt offers an art-lover’s delight. The multimedia guide ensures you understand the significance of each piece and room, making your visit more meaningful.

The Gardens

Walking through the palace gardens is a peaceful, almost fantastical experience. With 30 bird species and over 350 wildflowers, it’s a verdant oasis that many visitors find surprisingly tranquil. The views of the famous lake add to its charm.

This experience is particularly suited for royal enthusiasts, history lovers, and those who enjoy a mix of walking and cultural sights. It’s a great way to get inside Buckingham Palace without the long wait of individual tickets, and the guided walk adds context that enhances the visit.

If you’re traveling with kids over 5 who are interested in history and architecture, they might find it educational and fun. However, it’s less suitable for those who dislike walking or are looking for a very relaxed, sit-down experience.

The London: Buckingham Palace and Royal London Walking Tour offers an excellent combination of history, architecture, and exclusive access. For just over $60, you get a full morning or afternoon immersed in the royal world, guided by knowledgeable experts who bring London’s regal heritage to life.

The tour’s strength lies in its well-rounded approach—a walk through historic sites, engaging storytelling, and finally, the chance to explore the interior of Buckingham Palace itself. If you’re interested in the monarchy or want to see London from a royal perspective, it’s a highly worthwhile experience.

While the walking can be intensive and the schedule tight, the stories and sights you’ll experience make it worthwhile. It’s particularly perfect for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a touch of royal glamour in a practical, organized package.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 5 years old can participate, but younger children might find the walking and waiting tiring.

How long does the walking portion last?
The guided walking tour lasts approximately two hours, covering significant royal sites around Westminster and nearby areas.

When do I get inside Buckingham Palace?
You will enter Buckingham Palace at about 12:30 PM after the walking tour, which lasts roughly two hours.

Are there any restrictions inside Buckingham Palace?
Yes, photography inside the State Rooms is not allowed—only outdoor areas and the palace garden can be photographed for personal use.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking for several hours, and the tour lasts around five hours total.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this tour available year-round?
It operates from Thursday to Monday, with specific starting times, so check availability for your preferred date.

Does the price include everything?
Yes, it covers the guided walking tour, entry to Buckingham Palace, and the multimedia guide—food and drinks are not included.

Are there group size limits?
The specific group size isn’t detailed, but guided tours typically maintain manageable groups to ensure a good experience.

Can I bring large bags?
Large bags over 45cm x 20cm x 30cm are not allowed inside the Palace, and must be stored elsewhere, such as Victoria Station.

In brief, this tour offers a balanced glimpse into royal life through engaging storytelling, exclusive access, and beautiful sights—all at a reasonable price. If you’re curious about the monarchy or want a memorable, well-organized day in London, it’s hard to go wrong with this experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: