Changing of the Guard & Royal Food Tour with 10+ Tastings

Engaging first impressions of the Changing of the Guard & Royal Food Tour

If you’re visiting London and have a soft spot for the royal family, this tour offers a compelling mix of tradition, architecture, and culinary delights. Starting around 9:45 am at Lillywhites on Regent Street, the experience lasts about three to four hours, and costs roughly $137 per person. It’s a well-curated journey that appeals to both history buffs and food lovers alike.

What makes this tour special is the way it combines two quintessentially British experiences: witnessing the Changing of the Guard and sampling food and drink from Royal Warrant-holder suppliers. We particularly appreciated the personal touch: a small group of just around 10 travelers means plenty of chances to ask questions and get tailored insights, all led by knowledgeable guides like Dan, who’s praised for his humor and depth of understanding.

Two things we loved most are the up-close view of the Changing of the Guard, which feels more intimate than just watching from a distance, and the chance to taste authentic royal-approved treats at historic venues like Fortnum & Mason and The Ritz London. The surprise afternoon tea box at the end adds a fun, unexpected element to end the day.

A possible consideration? The timing—since the tour is scheduled for the morning, it’s best suited for those who don’t mind an early start. Also, if you’re hoping for a traditional, sit-down afternoon tea at The Ritz, this tour offers a surprise “mini” version, but not the full experience, so keep that in mind.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone eager to see London’s royal side with a tasty twist. It’s especially rewarding for those who want a more personal, in-depth experience rather than a large, hurried group.

Key Points

• Intimate small group for personalized attention
• In-depth insights into British royal traditions
• Tastings from royal suppliers offer authentic flavors
• Stunning architecture along the route enhances sightseeing
• Surprise afternoon tea box adds a fun element
• Accessible and well-organized with clear meeting points

A detailed look at the Changing of the Guard & Royal Food Tour

Starting Point: Regent Street and Piccadilly Circus

The tour begins at Lillywhites, a well-known sports and souvenir store, on Regent Street. This location is central and easy to find, and it’s a great spot to kick off your morning with the buzz of London’s shopping and sightseeing district. From here, you’re just a short walk to your first stop, Piccadilly Circus, which we love for its lively, iconic screens and bright lights—definitely a perfect “Instagram” moment early in the day.

The Changing of the Guard: A Royal Tradition Up Close

The heart of the experience is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Our guide, who has a knack for storytelling, helps us get a clear view of this centuries-old ceremony, which is both ceremonial and regal. You’ll learn about the history, the uniforms, and the protocol, making what might seem routine into a fascinating spectacle.

This part lasts about an hour, and the small group setting means you get plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get closer to the action than if you were just a part of a large crowd. Our guide’s commentary made the tradition come alive, explaining fun facts about the guards’ duties and their famous bearskin hats.

Food & Drink Tastings at Royal Warrant-Holders

After soaking in the regal spectacle, the tour shifts focus to culinary delights from suppliers to the Royal Court. Our first stop is Fortnum & Mason, a historic department store dating back over 150 years. Here, you’ll enjoy a sample of a traditional snack with a storied history—an authentic taste of British hospitality that has been feeding travelers and locals alike for generations.

Next, we walk to The Ritz London, a grand hotel famed for its elegant architecture and luxurious atmosphere. Although the tour only spends about 20 minutes here, we get a taste of the refined world of British fine dining with a surprise afternoon tea box. It’s not quite the full afternoon tea experience you’d get if you booked at the hotel, but it’s a delightful sampling that adds a special touch at the end of the tour.

The tour continues with visits to additional royal food suppliers, where you sample some of the finest food and drink on the Royal Family’s shopping list—though the exact venues aren’t listed, the emphasis is on quality and authenticity. The tasting stops are curated to give you a real feel for what the royals enjoy, making it a treat for those with a refined palate.

Architectural and Cultural Highlights

Throughout the tour, we appreciated the chance to admire central London architecture. Walking from Buckingham Palace through streets lined with historic buildings, grand facades, and iconic landmarks, the route offers plenty of photo opportunities. The guide shares insights into the city’s design and history, enriching the sightseeing experience beyond just the tastes and traditions.

The Surprise Afternoon Tea Box

Ending at The Ritz, the tour provides a surprise element—a specially prepared afternoon tea box. While it’s not a full sit-down experience, it offers a taste of British elegance and is a lovely way to conclude the morning’s exploration. This unexpected gift is fondly reviewed by travelers who find it a charming finish.

Practicalities: What to Expect

• The tour lasts roughly 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable morning outing.
• Small group size (max 10) ensures personalized attention and better views.
• Meeting point: Lillywhites on Regent Street, an accessible central location.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation provided immediately upon booking.
• The cost includes all food and drink samples, but tips, and hotel transfers are not included.
• Tour ends near Green Park Underground station, simplifying transportation back into the city.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviewers, including Eleanor, praise the knowledgeable guides and their engaging storytelling. She highlights Dan, who “showed us some of England’s famous sights while providing us with its most fantastic cuisine.” The combination of history, architecture, and food makes the tour particularly rewarding, offering a well-rounded taste of London’s royal and culinary culture.

While the price of around $137 might seem high at first glance, the inclusion of over 10 tastings, admission to key venues, and personalized guided experience make it good value. Plus, the small-group format means fewer crowds and more relaxed, meaningful interactions.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is best suited for history lovers who want a closer look at the Changing of the Guard, and foodies excited to sample royal-approved treats. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate small-group tours for a more personalized experience and are keen on discovering both London’s tradition and its culinary elegance in one go.

If you’re after an immersive, authentic outing that combines iconic sights with delicious bites, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially perfect for those who enjoy storytelling and want to learn about royal customs in a friendly, relaxed setting.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s appropriate for families, especially those interested in royal traditions and food. Keep in mind the pace and the walking involved.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, you meet at the starting point and the tour concludes near Green Park Underground. Transport arrangements are up to you after the experience.

What about the food tastings?
All samples from the royal suppliers are included in the price, providing a taste of British delicacies and royal favorites.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start, allowing you flexibility in your plans.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most of the route is on foot, and accessibility details aren’t specified, so it’s best to contact the provider if you have specific needs.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 85 days ahead, indicating strong interest and the limited availability of small-group experiences.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a charming blend of London’s royal pageantry and culinary elegance, making it an enriching choice for travelers with a penchant for history and good food. The personal guide, combined with the exclusive tastings and architectural sights, creates a memorable experience that’s both fun and informative.

While it’s not a full afternoon tea at The Ritz, the surprise box still captures that sense of British refinement. The small group size ensures a more intimate atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and sharing stories.

If you’re looking to tick off key royal traditions while indulging in some of Britain’s finest edible delights, this tour stands out as a well-rounded, enjoyable way to spend a morning in London.

Source

Viator – Changing of the Guard and Royal Food Tour