Exploring the grand halls of Westminster Abbey and witnessing the time-honored Changing of the Guard ceremony are bucket-list experiences for many visitors to London. This exclusive private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the abbey’s captivating history and marvel at its stunning architecture, all while enjoying the personalized attention of a professional Blue Badge guide. As the tour unfolds, you will uncover the stories behind the abbey’s legendary tombs and gain a deeper appreciation for the pageantry that has long defined British royal traditions. With Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square also on the itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of London’s most iconic landmarks.
Good To Know
- Exclusive private tour of Westminster Abbey, including access to areas not open to the public, led by a knowledgeable Blue Badge Tour Guide.
- Witness the captivating Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, with the tour concluding at the iconic Trafalgar Square.
- Comprehensive experience covering Westminster Abbey’s rich history, architecture, and significance, including coronations and royal weddings.
- Personalized and informative tour with flexibility for plan adjustments, suitable for most travelers, including wheelchair accessibility and service animals.
- Highly rated tour (5.0 on Viator and Tripadvisor) with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option available.
Tour Overview
The private tour of Westminster Abbey and the Changing of the Guard offers visitors a comprehensive experience, showcasing the historic abbey and the iconic British military ceremony.
With a 5.0 overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, the tour provides a private guided exploration of Westminster Abbey and the chance to witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Priced from $259.04 per person, the tour includes admission to the abbey and the services of a professional Blue Badge Tour Guide, though gratuities, food, drink, and transportation aren’t included.
The tour starts at 9:00 am and ends at Trafalgar Square, with the meeting point at the Westminster Abbey Shop.
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in London
Inclusions
This private tour includes admission to Westminster Abbey, providing visitors access to explore the historic church.
It also features a private tour led by a Professional Blue Badge Tour Guide, ensuring a personalized and informative experience.
The tour doesn’t include gratuities, food, or drink, so guests will need to budget for those additional expenses.
Transportation is also not provided, so you will need to make their own way to the meeting point at the Westminster Abbey Shop.
Meeting and Pickup
Located at the Westminster Abbey Shop, 20 Deans Yard, London SW1P 3JS, UK, the meeting point for this private tour is easy to find.
The tour guide will be holding a sign with the customer’s name, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to the experience.
The tour concludes at Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DS, UK, providing participants with the opportunity to further explore the city’s renowned landmarks.
This tour is:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for most travelers
- Confirmed upon booking
- Allows service animals
Tour Details
The private tour begins promptly at 9:00 am. Guests will receive confirmation of their booking, and the tour guide will be holding a sign with the traveler’s name to easily identify them. The tour is accessible for service animals and wheelchair users, and most travelers can participate.
| Tour Details | |
|---|---|
| Start Time | 9:00 am |
| Confirmation | Received at booking |
| Service Animals | Allowed |
| Wheelchair Accessible | Yes |
| Traveler Participation | Most can participate |
The tour concludes at the iconic Trafalgar Square, leaving guests free to explore the area further or continue their day in London.
Cancellation and Booking
Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour start time (local time). This provides flexibility for those who may need to adjust their plans.
Plus, the tour offers a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, allowing guests to secure their spot without immediate payment.
The tour also comes with a Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring customers receive the best value for their money. This commitment to customer satisfaction is further demonstrated by the overwhelmingly positive reviews the tour has received from previous participants.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
- Reserve Now and Pay Later option available
- Lowest Price Guarantee offered
- Overwhelmingly positive reviews from past travelers
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Exploring Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey, the iconic Gothic cathedral in central London, provides a captivating and immersive experience for visitors.
Adorned with intricate architectural details and rich historical significance, the abbey offers a glimpse into Britain’s past. Guests will explore the stunning interior, including the Nave, the Quire, and the tombs of renowned figures like Kings and Queens.
The tour also provides access to the Cloisters and the Chapter House, offering a deeper understanding of the abbey’s role in the country’s religious and political landscape.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors will gain valuable insights into the abbey’s rich history and the significance of its various elements.
Witnessing the Changing of the Guard
As part of the private tour, visitors are treated to the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This iconic tradition takes place outside Buckingham Palace, where the Queen’s royal guards march in perfect synchronization, accompanied by the sounds of military bands.
Onlookers are captivated by the precision, discipline, and pageantry of the event. The new guards take over their post from the old, ensuring the continuous protection of the Crown. Witnessing this ceremonial display is a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the British monarchy.
- The guards’ uniforms, including their bearskin hats, are a symbol of British military heritage.
- The Changing of the Guard occurs daily, with the specific timing depending on the day of the week.
- Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure the best viewing spot.
- The ceremony lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing ample time to observe the intricate procedures.
Highlights of the Private Tour
The private tour of Westminster Abbey offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the iconic cathedral’s rich history and architectural marvels.
Led by a knowledgeable Blue Badge Tour Guide, the tour provides exclusive access to areas not typically open to the general public. Guests will marvel at the Abbey’s stunning Gothic architecture, from the breathtaking nave to the serene cloisters.
The tour also delves into the abbey’s illustrious past, uncovering the stories of coronations, royal weddings, and the final resting places of monarchs and influential figures.
Whether you’re a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience at one of London’s most renowned landmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Available on Weekends?
The tour is available on weekends. The tour overview states that it’s a private tour, with no indication that it’s only offered on weekdays. Therefore, the tour is likely accessible on both weekends and weekdays.
Can I Customize the Tour to Include Additional Sites?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional sites. The tour provider offers flexibility to tailor the experience based on the customer’s preferences and interests, subject to availability and additional costs.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Headphones for the Audio Guide?
No, headphones are not required for this tour. The professional Blue Badge Tour Guide will provide the audio guide commentary to participants during the private tour of Westminster Abbey.
Can I Take Photographs Inside Westminster Abbey?
Photography is generally allowed inside Westminster Abbey, but visitors are asked to be respectful and mindful of others. Tripods and flash photography may be prohibited, so it’s best to check with staff upon arrival.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors are encouraged to wear respectful attire when visiting Westminster Abbey. Casual wear is generally acceptable, but guests should avoid overly revealing or casual clothing out of consideration for the sacred nature of the site.
Private Tour of Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard
The Sum Up
This exclusive private tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Westminster Abbey, followed by the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. With a professional Blue Badge guide, visitors can explore the abbey’s magnificent interior and witness the precision and pageantry of this renowned military tradition, culminating in the exploration of London’s landmarks at Trafalgar Square.
