Discover the grandeur of London’s royal history with the captivating Royal London Tour. This guided excursion whisks you through the city’s iconic landmarks, culminating in the renowned Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. From the comfort of a modern coach, you’ll uncover the fascinating stories behind the royal residences and hear expert commentary on the ceremonial traditions that have captivated audiences for centuries. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of the British monarchy.
Good To Know
- Comprehensive tour of London’s iconic royal landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, and Westminster Abbey.
- Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, with expert commentary and prime viewing location.
- Air-conditioned coach transportation and personal audio headsets ensure a comfortable and informative experience.
- Knowledgeable Blue Badge guide provides in-depth commentary and historical insights throughout the tour.
- Accessibility options available, with advance notification required for wheelchair users.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Royal London Tour offers visitors a chance to experience the city’s iconic royal highlights, including the renowned Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.
With a 3.5-star average rating from 171 reviews, the tour provides a panoramic coach journey through London, passing by key landmarks like Kensington Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben.
Guests can upgrade their experience with an open-date ticket for the London Eye.
Led by a knowledgeable Blue Badge guide, the tour includes expert commentary and personal audio headsets, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey in an air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi and USB charging.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.
Tour Details and Itinerary
Led by a Blue Badge guide, the Royal London Tour offers expert commentary with personal audio headsets to ensure a comfortable and informative journey. Guests board a modern, air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi and USB charging ports at the convenient Victoria Coach Station departure point. The tour explores London’s royal highlights, including:
| Attraction | Details |
|---|---|
| Buckingham Palace | Witness the Changing of the Guard |
| Kensington Palace | Former home of Princess Diana |
| Westminster Abbey | Coronation church since 1066 |
| Big Ben | Iconic clock tower at the Palace of Westminster |
| London Eye | Optional upgrade for panoramic city views |
The tour concludes around noon at the Evan Evans Tours office on Vauxhall Bridge Road.
Key Attractions
Westminster Abbey, the coronation church since 1066, houses the resting places of 17 monarchs.
Other key attractions on the tour include:
- Big Ben, the iconic nickname for the Great Bell at the Palace of Westminster.
- Kensington Palace, the former home of Princess Diana.
- The Changing of the Guard, a ceremonial ritual that takes place on select days at Buckingham Palace.
- Trafalgar Square, a famous public square known for its Nelson’s Column and iconic fountains.
These historic landmarks and royal traditions provide a glimpse into London’s rich heritage and captivating monarchy.
The tour offers an immersive experience for visitors to explore the city’s most renowned sights.
Accessibility and Additional Information
Wheelchair users can enjoy the Royal London Tour, as the coach is accessible. The tour operator requests that guests notify them in advance if they’ll be bringing a wheelchair.
For guests traveling with infants, they must sit on laps during the tour. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Guest Reviews and Feedback
How do the guest reviews and feedback paint a picture of the Royal London Tour experience?
The reviews are mixed, with 59 five-star, 44 four-star, 21 three-star, 21 two-star, and 26 one-star ratings.
Positive comments praise the knowledgeable guides and informative tours, while criticism focuses on accessibility issues and a chaotic Changing of the Guard experience.
Guests also complained about the lack of Wi-Fi and changes in schedule due to coronation preparations.
The reviews emphasize the company’s willingness to improve based on feedback and a focus on guest satisfaction.
The key takeaways from the reviews are:
- Mixed ratings, ranging from five-star to one-star.
- Praise for knowledgeable guides and informative tours.
- Criticism regarding accessibility and Changing of the Guard experience.
- Complaints about lack of Wi-Fi and schedule changes due to coronation.
- From London: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour
★ 4.7 · 26,588 reviews - London: Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise
★ 4.5 · 22,836 reviews - London: Madame Tussauds London
★ 4.6 · 20,915 reviews - London: Warner Bros. Studio Tour With Transfers
★ 4.7 · 17,586 reviews - London: Tower Bridge Entry Ticket
★ 4.7 · 15,560 reviews - London: St Paul’s Cathedral Entry Ticket
★ 4.7 · 9,813 reviews
Exploring Royal London
The Royal London Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic royal landmarks and attractions. From the grand Westminster Abbey to the stately Kensington Palace, the tour takes guests on a captivating journey through London’s rich royal history. The highlight of the experience is witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, a time-honored tradition that showcases the precision and discipline of the Queen’s Guard. To enhance the experience, the tour includes:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Expert Blue Badge guide | Provides in-depth commentary and historical insights |
| Air-conditioned coach | Ensures a comfortable and relaxing journey |
| Panoramic views | Allows for unobstructed sightseeing of key landmarks |
Experiencing the Changing of the Guard
One of the highlights of the Royal London Tour is witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. This iconic ritual features a formal handover of responsibility between the Old Guard and the New Guard, accompanied by a military band.
To enhance the experience, the tour:
- Provides a prime viewing location for the ceremony.
- Offers expert commentary from the Blue Badge guide to explain the historical significance.
- Ensures guests have personal audio headsets to hear the guide clearly.
- Coordinates the tour schedule to coincide with the Changing of the Guard timings on specific days.
The Changing of the Guard is a must-see event that adds a touch of pageantry to the Royal London Tour.
Preparing for Your Tour
To get the most out of your Royal London Tour, it’s important to prepare ahead of time. Review the tour details and itinerary, and make note of the key attractions you’ll be visiting. Consider any accessibility needs and inform the tour operator in advance. Plan your transportation to the meeting point, allowing extra time to account for traffic or delays. Here’s a handy table to help you get ready:
| What to Bring | What to Wear | Tips for the Day |
|---|---|---|
| Government-issued ID | Comfortable walking shoes | Arrive at least 15 minutes early |
| Water and snacks | Weather-appropriate clothing | Follow your guide’s instructions |
| Camera/phone | Light jacket or umbrella | Ask questions if you’re unsure |
| Portable charger | Sun protection (as needed) | Be mindful of the group’s pace |
| Small bills for gratuities | Enjoy the experience! |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Changing of the Guard Ceremony?
Yes, you can take photos during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. However, it’s best to avoid using flash photography as it may disrupt the proceedings. Be mindful of your surroundings and respect the event’s solemnity.
How Long Does the Changing of the Guard Last?
The Changing of the Guard typically lasts about 30 minutes. It’s a ceremonial event where the new guard formally relieves the old guard at Buckingham Palace. Timing can vary, so visitors should arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code for the tour, though participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Casual attire is generally fine, but visitors may want to avoid overly casual or revealing outfits out of respect for the royal sites visited.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Coach?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the coach. The tour allows outside snacks and beverages, so you can enjoy refreshments during the journey. However, it’s best to avoid any messy or strong-smelling items.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour provides discounts for seniors and students. Customers should check the tour provider’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any available discounted rates for these groups.
Royal London Tour With Changing of the Guard
The Sum Up
The Royal London Tour with Changing of the Guard offers an enriching exploration of the city’s iconic royal heritage. Guests can look forward to a comfortable journey, expert commentary, and the unforgettable experience of witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony. With a focus on guest satisfaction, this tour promises an unforgettable experience of London’s royal landmarks and traditions.
