London: Buckingham Palace & Big Ben (& Westminster Abbey entry)

Experience London’s Highlights in Just Half a Day

If you’re visiting London and want to see the city’s most iconic sights without spending days on it, this 5-hour small-group walking tour is a smart choice. For $134.99 per person, you’ll explore 20 of London’s top landmarks, from the stately Buckingham Palace to the majestic Westminster Abbey. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a compact, engaging experience ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

What we really appreciate is the inclusion of Westminster Abbey tickets, allowing you to skip long lines and enjoy the abbey’s stunning architecture and centuries of history at your own pace. Plus, the tour’s focus on delivering a personalized, small-group experience makes it easier to ask questions and soak in the atmosphere, rather than being lost in a large crowd.

However, a consideration is that this tour involves a fair amount of walking, so it’s best suited to those who are comfortable on their feet and enjoy lively, outdoor explorations. Also, since the tour covers some busy areas, being prepared for crowds and weather shifts can enhance your experience.

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a well-rounded overview of London’s most famous sites without the hassle of planning each stop individually. It works especially well for first-timers eager to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide guiding the way.

Key Points

• Efficient sightseeing: Cover 20 top London sights in just 5 hours, making it ideal for limited schedules.
• Included entry to Westminster Abbey: Skip the lines and explore this historic coronation site at your own pace.
• Expert local guides: Learn more about London from guides who are passionate and knowledgeable.
• Small-group atmosphere: Better engagement, fewer crowds, and more personalized attention.
• Focus on iconic landmarks: From Buckingham Palace to Big Ben, see the essentials in one tour.
• Good value: The combination of guided commentary and included tickets offers a compelling package.

A Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Duration

Starting bright and early at The Ritz London at 10:00am, this small-group tour is designed to maximize your time. With around 15 travelers, you get a more personal experience, avoiding the chaos of larger tours. The 5-hour duration includes walking and exploring, but doesn’t account for time spent inside Westminster Abbey, which is pre-booked for convenience.

First Stop: Buckingham Palace and Green Park

The tour kicks off with a leisurely walk through Green Park, a quiet green oasis in the heart of Westminster, before reaching Buckingham Palace—the official London residence of the monarchy. Here, your guide shares stories about royal traditions and history, making the grand façade come alive.

Depending on the day, you’ll have the chance to watch the famous Changing of the Guard, a colorful ceremony that draws crowds. Guides like Brandon or Ashley highlight the best vantage points, ensuring you catch the spectacle without the hassle of figuring it out on your own. The tour’s description notes that this is a highlight, but timing can vary, so it’s good to check if your visit coincides.

Trafalgar Square and Surroundings

Next, the group heads to Trafalgar Square, a lively hub filled with history and public art. Nelson’s Column, the fountains, and nearby landmarks like the National Gallery are quick stops that give you great photo opportunities and a taste of London’s vibrant city life.

Horse Guards Parade and St. James’s Park

A short walk takes you to Horse Guards Parade, a ceremonial parade ground with its iconic arch and the mounted guards. Here, you’ll often catch a ceremonial changing of the guards or watch as horse-drawn carriages pass by. Adjacent to this is St. James’s Park, a peaceful spot perfect for photos and a quick moment to enjoy London’s green spaces.

Whitehall and Downing Street

Your guide points out Whitehall, where impressive government buildings, war memorials, and Downing Street—the residence of the Prime Minister—are located. Although you can’t enter Downing Street, you’ll get a sense of the political heart of London from outside.

Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

The tour’s centerpiece is Parliament Square, where you’ll see the Palace of Westminster and the world-famous Big Ben. The guide shares stories about the building’s history and its role in British politics. From here, you’ll also enjoy views of the London Eye and the Churchill Statue, capturing the essence of the city’s political and cultural history.

Westminster Abbey

The final highlight is Westminster Abbey, a stunning Gothic building with over a millennium of royal ceremonies, coronations, and historical events. Your guide pre-books your entry tickets to save time, and you get access to the Abbey’s impressive interior with a free audio guide.

Inside, you can explore the royal tombs, the Coronation Chair, and the exquisite stained glass windows. The two hours spent here are rich with stories, and many reviews praise guides like Charlotte or Connor for their engaging commentary.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Based on reviews, guides like Brandon, Ashley, and Connor consistently receive praise for their depth of knowledge, humor, and friendly approach. One reviewer noted, “Brandon knew the ins and outs of things that allowed us to see things as they were happening,” which is exactly what makes a guided tour valuable.

Many travelers appreciated how the guides kept the group moving efficiently, ensuring everyone saw the key sights without feeling rushed. One said, “Charlotte made it fantastic — extremely interesting and I learned so much,” highlighting the benefit of a passionate guide.

The inclusion of Westminster Abbey tickets is a major plus, with some reviewers mentioning the long lines they encountered when trying to buy tickets on their own. Having pre-booked access meant more time enjoying the architecture and history, rather than waiting in queues.

What Travelers Love

• Knowledgeable, humorous guides who make history come alive
• The chance to see iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace up close
• The convenience of included Westminster Abbey tickets
• The intimate, small-group setting making the experience more personal

Possible Drawbacks

Some reviews mention the walking intensity, so travelers should be prepared for a fair amount of walking, especially in potentially crowded areas. Also, if you’re keen on seeing the Changing of the Guard, note that the tour may not always coincide exactly with the ceremony, so verify ahead if this is a must-see.

The Value of This Tour

While at $134.99 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option, it offers significant value for the combination of expert-guided sightseeing and included Westminster Abbey tickets. Instead of paying separately for multiple attractions and dealing with queues, this all-in-one package streamlines your sightseeing, saving you time and stress.

The small-group size means you’re more likely to get personalized attention and have your questions answered—an aspect many travelers cherish, especially if it’s your first visit to London.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the essentials without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s also excellent for those with limited time, who want a rundown of London’s most famous sights in one manageable outing. If you enjoy learning from guides who share stories with humor and depth, this tour will suit you well.

Travelers who value convenience, insider knowledge, and generous access to significant landmarks will find this tour a worthwhile investment. However, be prepared for a fair amount of walking, and consider whether you want to include or skip specific sights like the Changing of the Guard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation between sights?
No, this is a walking tour, so you should be prepared to walk between locations, which are relatively close together in central London.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers a local guide, a guided walk of the top 20 sights, and pre-booked tickets for Westminster Abbey. Food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not included.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard on this tour?
Your guide will find the best spot to watch the Changing of the Guard if it’s happening during your visit, but it’s not guaranteed. Check the schedule in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your own drinks or packed lunch, as food isn’t included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the guide’s stories and humor often entertain kids. However, the walking and standing could be tiring for very young children.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 63 days ahead, indicating high demand, especially during peak seasons.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Bring an umbrella if rain looks likely. The tour proceeds rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, engaging introduction to London’s most recognizable sights. The combination of expert guides, included tickets, and a manageable schedule makes it an excellent choice for those wanting a focused, hassle-free experience.

The emphasis on storytelling and the small-group setting make it more than just a walk—it’s a chance to connect more deeply with the city’s history and atmosphere. If you’re short on time but want to see the best of London, this tour delivers on both value and memorable moments.

While it’s not suited for those seeking a relaxed day or specific in-depth visits, it’s perfect for first-timers or anyone eager to get the highlights with knowledgeable guidance. Just be ready for a fair bit of walking and a lively, outdoor adventure through the heart of the British capital.