London: Westminster Tour and Windsor Castle Entry Ticket

Imagine spending a day exploring London’s most iconic sights, then stepping into one of the UK’s most historic royal residences. For $101.02 per person, you get a well-balanced 6-hour experience that combines a lively, guided walking tour of Westminster’s highlights with a visit to Windsor Castle. Led by engaging local guides, this tour promises a mix of history, architecture, and royal intrigue, all packed into a manageable day.

What we particularly love about this experience is the comprehensive itinerary that covers over 15 key landmarks in Westminster—think Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Downing Street, and Westminster Abbey—offering a real sense of Britain’s political heart and royal traditions. The inclusion of a train trip to Windsor Castle with an audio guide makes the visit to this majestic royal home both accessible and informative. Plus, the small group or private option means you’ll enjoy a more personal experience, often with a knowledgeable guide sharing stories you won’t find in guidebooks.

A potential consideration is that the train tickets to Windsor are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately. Also, if you’re interested in watching the Changing of the Guard, be aware that it only occurs on specific days—Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings—which might affect your plans if you’re visiting on a different day.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a dynamic mix of walking, sightseeing, and history. Whether you’re a first-time visitor wanting a broad overview of Westminster or someone eager to explore Windsor Castle without the hassle of planning train connections, this experience offers both convenience and depth.

Key Points

Comprehensive sightseeing of London’s most famous landmarks in Westminster
Includes train travel and entry tickets to Windsor Castle, with an audio guide
Small group or private options for a more personalized experience
Knowledgeable local guides enhance the storytelling and engagement
Flexible scheduling with available start times and full cancellation policy
Ideal for history and royal enthusiasts seeking a balanced day trip

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Westminster: A Closer Look

We start this journey outside the historic Ritz London, a fitting launch point that instantly immerses you in the city’s elegant atmosphere. From here, your guide—who tends to be both informative and lively—leads you through some of the most photographed and significant spots in London.

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Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

One of the highlight moments is the photo stop at Buckingham Palace, where you’ll see the grandeur of the Queen’s official residence. If you’re lucky, your visit coincides with the Changing of the Guard—a colorful ceremony that takes place only on certain days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) at 10 am. We love how your guide often provides fascinating stories about this tradition, making it more than just a photo opportunity.

Westminster’s Political and Religious Heart

Next, the tour moves through Trafalgar Square, famous for Nelson’s Column and lively street performers, and then to Whitehall, where you’ll see the Horse Guards Parade and hear tales of British monarchy and government. The highlight here is Downing Street, home to the Prime Minister, which is generally visible from outside, adding a sense of political gravity to your walk.

A walk past Parliament Square introduces you to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben—an iconic skyline that defines London’s cityscape. Your guide will share snippets of Westminster’s political history, making the sights come alive.

Westminster Abbey

No visit here is complete without a peek inside Westminster Abbey, one of the most architecturally stunning religious sites in the UK. While this is a brief stop, the guide’s insights help you appreciate the Abbey’s significance as a coronation and burial site for monarchs, making it a highlight for history buffs.

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Windsor Castle: The Royal Residence

After the Westminster sightseeing, you’ll hop on a train (your tickets are not included in the tour price) to Windsor—a charming town renowned for its castle. The train journey takes approximately 30 minutes, providing a scenic transition from the hustle of central London to the tranquility of the Berkshire countryside.

Once in Windsor, you’ll have around three hours to explore the castle grounds. The entry ticket is included, along with an audio guide to help you navigate the grounds at your own pace. You’ll visit the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the castle’s exterior battlements, all rich with royal history.

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What to Expect at Windsor Castle

The castle is the oldest inhabited castle in the world still used by the monarchy. Its walls have witnessed countless royal events, and walking through its halls gives you a palpable sense of royal tradition. The audio guide enriches the experience, offering stories behind the rooms, artworks, and the castle’s role as a royal residence.

Traveler Experiences and Tips

One reviewer mentioned that the guided tour in Windsor was a highlight, with many appreciating the detailed audio commentary that allowed them to explore at their own pace. However, since the guided tour inside Windsor Castle isn’t included, you might prefer to prepare some questions or notes to make the most of your visit.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour is designed with convenience in mind but does require some planning. The meeting point outside the Ritz is easy to find, and the tour ends back at the same spot, so no transportation worries there. Remember, train tickets to Windsor are not included, so buying those in advance or on the day is advisable.

The duration of six hours means you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking. The schedule is flexible, with start times available depending on the day, but keep an eye on weather conditions—an umbrella and weather-appropriate clothing are handy.

If you’re a fan of royal history, architecture, or simply want to see the core of London’s political life, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction. Younger travelers or history enthusiasts will appreciate the storytelling, while casual sightseers will find the itinerary manageable and rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience provides a rich, accessible taste of London’s core sights and royal heritage. It’s ideal for those who want a guided overview rather than a self-guided scramble, especially since the knowledgeable guides are great storytellers who bring history to life. The combination of walking, sightseeing, and a castle visit makes it a full but well-paced day.

If you enjoy organized tours that handle transportation logistics and give insight into the stories behind the landmarks, this tour offers excellent value for the price. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning individual tickets or transportation.

Travelers who prefer a more relaxed, educational experience with the chance to learn about Britain’s monarchy and government will find this tour satisfying. The small-group or private options also make it suitable for those who want some intimacy and tailored attention from their guides.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided walking tour of Westminster, a train trip to Windsor, entry tickets to Windsor Castle, and an audio guide for the castle.

Are train tickets to Windsor included?
No, the train tickets are not included. You’ll need to purchase those separately, but your guide will give instructions on how to get there.

How long is the walking tour?
The walking tour lasts approximately 3 hours, covering key landmarks in Westminster.

What sights do I see during the Westminster tour?
You’ll visit Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, Downing Street, Parliament Square, Westminster Abbey, and see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

Is the Changing of the Guard included?
It’s scheduled only on certain days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday at 10 am), so check the schedule if you want to see this ceremony.

How much time do I have at Windsor Castle?
You’ll have about 3 hours to explore Windsor Castle and its grounds.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to inform the provider in advance for any specific needs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a taste of London’s grandeur and Windsor’s regal splendor in one well-organized day. It balances guided storytelling with personal exploration, making it an excellent choice for those wanting efficient, authentic experiences at a fair price. Whether you’re a history buff, royal enthusiast, or just eager to see the highlights, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and worthwhile.