London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket - Downing Street and Parliament Square

London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket

If you’re visiting London and want a well-rounded experience that combines history, culture, and breathtaking views, this Westminster walking tour plus London Eye experience might just be the perfect fit. For $115.84 per person, you’ll spend about five hours exploring the city’s most famous landmarks, led by a friendly local guide, then finish with a scenic ride on the London Eye.

What we love about this tour is the chance to walk through central Westminster, absorbing the sights and stories firsthand. Plus, having pre-booked tickets for the London Eye saves you time and hassle, giving you direct access to one of London’s most popular attractions. The tour’s small group size (10-15 guests) makes it easier to ask questions and truly enjoy the experience.

A possible consideration? Since the tour includes a lot of walking — through busy streets and historic sites — comfortable shoes are a must. Also, keep in mind that the Changing of the Guard ceremony is only on certain days at 10am, so if you’re eager to see it, plan accordingly.

This experience suits history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone who wants a thorough yet fun introduction to London’s most famous sights. If you’re someone who appreciates engaging guides and stunning city views, this tour is worth considering.

  • Comprehensive sightseeing: Covers major landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Parliament.
  • Expert guide: Knowledgeable, personable local guide enhances the experience.
  • Time-efficient: Combines a 3-hour walking tour with a 2-hour London Eye ride, perfect for a half-day adventure.
  • Pre-booked tickets: Skip lines at the London Eye, saving time and guaranteeing your spot.
  • Small group size: Creates a more personal, engaging atmosphere.
  • Weather considerations: Bring an umbrella, as weather in London can be unpredictable.

This tour begins outdoors, outside the iconic Ritz London, a grand starting point that sets the tone for a day of exploration. From here, your guide — perhaps a local named Sarah or James — will lead you through some of London’s most photographed and historically significant sites. The balance of walking and sightseeing means you get to experience the city at a relaxed pace, with just enough time at each stop to absorb the atmosphere.

The Buckingham Palace Stop

London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket - The Buckingham Palace Stop

A highlight for many, the visit to Buckingham Palace offers more than just a photo op. If you’re lucky and visit on one of the days the Changing of the Guard takes place (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10 am), it’s a fascinating display of pageantry and British tradition. Even if not, the exterior view of the palace is impressive, and your guide will share stories about royalty and royal protocol.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trafalgar Square and Whitehall

London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket - Trafalgar Square and Whitehall

Next, you’ll pause at Trafalgar Square, often called London’s “living room” — a hub of activity, with Nelson’s Column reigning over the area. It’s a popular spot for photos and people-watching. Just a short walk away, you’ll see Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall, where you might catch a ceremonial guard or learn about its significance.

Downing Street and Parliament Square

London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket - Downing Street and Parliament Square

From there, the tour takes you past 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence. While you can’t enter, the exterior exudes power and history. Next, you’ll reach Parliament Square, a bustling square lined with statues of figures from British history, with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament providing a quintessential London backdrop.

Westminster Abbey

London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket - Westminster Abbey

A brief visit to Westminster Abbey offers a peek into centuries of British history — the site of royal coronations, weddings, and burials. While the walk around the exterior takes about 20 minutes, your guide will highlight its architectural marvels and stories of the monarchs and luminaries associated with it.

Ending at the London Eye

London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket - Ending at the London Eye

After the walking portion, you’ll arrive at the London Eye, where your pre-booked ticket gets you priority access. The two-hour ride provides spectacular panoramic views of London’s skyline, including landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. Many travelers find this the perfect way to “see the city from above,” especially as the London Eye is one of the city’s most iconic structures.

The combination of a guided walk with high-quality, pre-booked admission to the London Eye offers a balanced mix of education and entertainment. The guide’s insights help you understand the stories behind each site, making the sightseeing more meaningful. The included London Eye tickets eliminate the stress of waiting in line, giving you more time to enjoy the views.

The small group size means more personal attention, and most reviews mention how knowledgeable guides make the experience lively and informative. Travelers especially appreciate the flexibility — the tour is wheelchair accessible and offers flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

However, keep in mind that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are essential. Also, since it starts outdoors, be prepared for London’s unpredictable weather with an umbrella or raincoat.

Many reviewers describe their guides as fun, friendly, and full of interesting stories, which makes the sightseeing enjoyable rather than a hurried race from spot to spot. The views from the London Eye are often praised as “breathtaking,” giving a new perspective on the city’s layout and landmarks.

A traveler mentioned, “Our guide made history come alive with stories I’d never heard before,” emphasizing how a good guide can turn a sightseeing tour into a memorable educational experience. Another appreciated the timing—starting at Green Park and ending at the London Eye—because it allowed for a natural flow that didn’t feel rushed.

One minor drawback noted is that the schedule can be busy, especially during peak tourist season, so arriving early and wearing comfortable gear helps. Also, the Changing of the Guard ceremony’s limited schedule means you need to plan for that if seeing it is a priority.

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see London’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual tickets and schedules. It’s also perfect for those who want an engaging guide to add context to their sightseeing. If you’re short on time but want to cover a lot of ground, the combination of walking and the London Eye makes this a solid choice.

Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mixture of history, culture, and scenic views will find this tour balanced and rewarding. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate small group settings and want to avoid large, impersonal tours.

In summary, the London: Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket offers a comprehensive, enjoyable way to see some of London’s most iconic sites in one half-day experience. With a knowledgeable guide, the opportunity to see landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, and the stunning aerial view from the London Eye, this tour provides excellent value for its price.

It’s well-suited for travelers who want an authentic, personal experience that’s both educational and visually impressive. While it involves some walking and outdoor exposure, the convenience of pre-booked tickets and small group size make it a hassle-free choice.

For those interested in truly understanding London’s core and capturing memorable views from above, this tour strikes a practical, engaging balance that’s hard to beat.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for most travelers with mobility needs.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a 3-hour guided walking tour with a fun local guide, a pre-booked entrance ticket for the London Eye, and a small group experience.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks, water, or plan to grab something during the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside the Ritz London at 150 Piccadilly, near Green Park Underground Station.

How long does the London Eye ride last?
The experience at the Eye lasts approximately 2 hours, including the ride and time to enjoy the views.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy walking and panoramic views.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, an umbrella, a camera, and any snacks or drinks you might want for the day.

This tour offers a practical and engaging way to experience central London’s highlights while enjoying the stunning cityscapes from the London Eye. Whether you’re a history lover, a first-timer, or just seeking a memorable day out, it delivers a well-balanced adventure.