Royal London: Crown Jewels & Changing of the Guard Tour
180
Overview
London Royal Crown & Changing of the Guard Walking Tour: See London's Royal Highlights!
This walking tour takes you through the heart of royal London. See the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony* at Buckingham Palace and stroll through beautiful St. James's Park. An expert guide shares stories about the Royal Family and British history. You'll see iconic landmarks like Wellington Arch, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.
What to Expect: The tour begins at Wellington Arch. From there, you'll walk to Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard*. The tour continues through St. James's Park, past St. James's Palace, and on to Trafalgar Square. The tour ends in Parliament Square, near Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. This tour includes a local guide and a small group for a more personal experience. Food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if needed. *The Changing of the Guard takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays (weather permitting) and is subject to schedule changes or cancellation by the British Army.




Highlights
See the Changing of the Guard: Witness this world-famous ceremony at Buckingham Palace (subject to schedule).
Walk through Royal Parks: Enjoy the beauty of St. James's Park, home to pelicans and lovely gardens.
Expert Local Guide: Learn about London's history and royal traditions from an informed guide.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more personal tour with a limited number of participants.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally loved the tour, praising the guide and the sights. The crowds at Buckingham Palace were a minor issue for some.

Customers enjoyed seeing the Changing of the Guard.
The tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly.
The walk was a great way to see many famous landmarks.
Small group size allowed for a more personalized experience.
Some customers found the tour to be too crowded at Buckingham Palace.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony can be very busy.
The Journey
Wellington Arch
Begin your adventure at Wellington Arch, a grand triumphal arch that once served as an entrance to Buckingham Palace. Today, it stands as a monument to the Duke of Wellington's victories and offers stunning panoramic views of London from its upper levels. Explore its history and admire its impressive bronze sculptures.
Buckingham Palace
Witness the splendor of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch since 1837. Observe the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a colorful display of British pageantry, and capture memorable photos of this iconic symbol of the United Kingdom. Consider a tour of the State Rooms during the summer opening for a glimpse into royal life.
Green Park
Escape the bustling city streets with a tranquil stroll through Green Park, a verdant oasis between Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly. Enjoy the lush greenery, mature trees, and peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect place for a relaxing break and a picnic amidst London's urban landscape.
Clarence House
Admire Clarence House, the official residence of The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. This elegant building, steeped in royal history, was also the home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother for many years. Appreciate its architectural beauty and imagine the lives of the royals who have resided within its walls.
St. James's Park
Wander through the picturesque St. James's Park, one of London's oldest Royal Parks. Admire the vibrant flowerbeds, serene lake, and charming waterfowl. Enjoy stunning views of Buckingham Palace and Whitehall, and soak in the park's serene ambiance, a perfect escape from the city's hustle.
Trafalgar Square
Experience the vibrant energy of Trafalgar Square, a bustling public square in the heart of London. Admire Nelson's Column, guarded by majestic bronze lions, and soak in the lively atmosphere. It's a popular gathering place for celebrations, demonstrations, and cultural events.
National Gallery
Immerse yourself in the world of art at the National Gallery, home to a remarkable collection of European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Discover masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Rembrandt, and more. Explore diverse artistic styles and historical periods within the gallery's grand halls.
Whitehall
Walk through Whitehall, the heart of British government, and witness the hub of political power. See iconic buildings such as the Cabinet Office, the Foreign Office, and HM Treasury. Feel the weight of history as you walk past these centers of decision-making that shape the nation's future.
Horse Guards Parade
Witness the ceremonial grandeur of Horse Guards Parade, a large parade ground steeped in military history. Observe the Changing of the Guard ceremony and admire the immaculately dressed guards on horseback. This historic site hosts Trooping the Colour, a spectacular event celebrating the monarch's official birthday.
Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)
Marvel at the iconic Big Ben, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, a symbol of London and British parliamentary democracy. Hear the resonant chimes of the Great Bell and admire the tower's neo-Gothic architecture. Note that tours inside the tower are available to UK residents, offering a fascinating glimpse into its history and mechanics.
The Cenotaph
Pay your respects at The Cenotaph, a war memorial dedicated to the fallen soldiers of the First World War and subsequent conflicts. Reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom and peace at this poignant monument, a focal point for Remembrance Day ceremonies in London.
10 Downing Street
Catch a glimpse of 10 Downing Street, the official residence and workplace of the British Prime Minister. While public access is restricted, you can still appreciate the historic significance of this unassuming building, a symbol of political power and leadership.
Westminster Abbey
Explore the magnificent Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of British history. Witness the coronation church of English monarchs since 1066, the final resting place of kings, queens, poets, and scientists. Admire its stunning Gothic architecture and explore its historical chapels and tombs.
Houses of Parliament
Stand in awe of the Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture. Witness the seat of British democracy, where laws are debated and decisions are made. Take a tour to explore its opulent interiors and learn about the history of British parliament.
Churchill War Rooms
Descend into the Churchill War Rooms, a secret underground complex that served as the nerve center of British war operations during World War II. Explore the preserved rooms where Winston Churchill and his cabinet directed the war effort. Experience the atmosphere of wartime Britain and gain insight into Churchill's leadership during a critical period in history.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes a local guide and a small group. Food and drinks are not included, so please bring your own snacks and water if needed. Entry to any of the attractions along the route is also not included. The meeting point is at Wellington Arch.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a good amount of walking involved. Arrive early to Buckingham Palace to get a good viewing spot for the Changing of the Guard.