Best of Westminster Abbey with Upper Gallery & Buckingham Palace

Experience the Best of London’s Royal Landmarks with a Guided Tour

If you’re planning a visit to London and want a solid overview of some of its most iconic sights, this “Best of Westminster Abbey with Upper Gallery & Buckingham Palace” tour offers a rich, well-structured experience. Priced at $183.79 per person and lasting roughly three hours, it combines inside access to Westminster Abbey, including the medieval cloisters and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries, with outside visits to Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace.

What we love about this tour is the expert guidance from a Blue Badge guide, making the history and stories come alive with engaging anecdotes. Plus, the skip-the-line tickets save precious time, especially during the busy tourist season. Another highlight is the upgraded opportunity to see the Changing of the Guard, which adds a splash of royal pageantry to your London adventure.

A potential consideration is the limited accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges, as the tour involves walking over uneven surfaces, stairs, and hills. It’s best suited for active visitors who enjoy walking and want an in-depth, guided experience rather than just a quick photo stop.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those interested in Britain’s royal connections. It’s also perfect if you’re eager to see “The Crown” filming locations and get insider stories from a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re visiting London for a first time or looking to deepen your understanding of its royal traditions, this tour delivers a comprehensive snapshot.

Key Points

• Skip-the-line access saves hours of waiting at Westminster Abbey.
• Expert Blue Badge guides provide captivating stories and context.
• The Upper Gallery offers a rare view into royal artifacts and history.
• The tour’s combination of indoor and outdoor sights maximizes your London experience.
• Timing is optimized for early access and avoiding crowds.
• It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and stairs.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Westminster Abbey: A Majestic Medieval Masterpiece

Starting at the medieval cloisters, you’ll step into a space that once served as a quiet retreat for monks. You’ll walk along stone corridors that feel centuries old, imagining the monks’ contemplations — a feeling that sets the tone for the entire visit. The skip-the-line tickets mean you bypass the long queues, allowing more time for soaking in the grandeur.

Once inside the Abbey, your guide will point out the highlights—tombs of monarchs, the Coronation Chair, and the stunning stained glass windows. According to one reviewer, the Abbey is “beautiful & going early is definitely the best idea,” as crowds tend to swell later in the day. The guide’s commentary adds depth, sharing stories of royal weddings, historical figures, and tales behind the famous burial sites.

Exploring the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries

The Queen Elizabeth II galleries are a real gem. Ascending 50 feet above the main floor, you’ll encounter dazzling exhibits like the coronation chair of Queen Mary II and artifacts from Queen Elizabeth I’s era. The display of priceless artifacts and historical artworks offers a glimpse into royal life that’s rarely accessible. It’s a chance to see relics like Queen Elizabeth’s corset and items from daily worship practices.

One visitor remarked, “The upper gallery is definitely worth experiencing,” and you’ll appreciate the personal connection this gallery fosters with royal history. It’s an immersive part of the tour that elevates your understanding of the monarchy’s legacy.

The Iconic Sights — Big Ben, Parliament, and Buckingham Palace

Following Westminster Abbey, you’ll head outside to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Viewing these from Parliament Square gives you a perfect photo opportunity, with the tower’s clock face casting a timeless charm over London. While the Houses of Parliament are only viewed from outside, your guide will share stories about their history and political importance.

The final stop at Buckingham Palace is where many travelers feel a sense of awe. You’ll see the palace’s grandeur from the exterior, and perhaps catch sight of the Changing of the Guard if you upgrade — a colorful, traditional ceremony offering a vivid taste of royal pageantry. Though the tour stops outside the palace, the stories your guide shares about its history and royal residents are equally fascinating.

Practical Details & Personal Experiences

The tour is designed for active participants, with a fair amount of walking, some uneven surfaces, and stairs, so comfortable shoes are a must. One reviewer pointed out that it’s not recommended for travelers with limited mobility, which is worth considering if you have physical constraints.

The small group size (maximum of 20 travelers) enhances the experience, making it easier to hear your guide and ask questions. The duration of about three hours strikes a good balance — enough time to explore thoroughly without fatigue setting in.

Value and Considerations

Compared to standalone tickets, this guided experience offers excellent value by combining inside access to Westminster Abbey, exclusive galleries, and iconic London sights. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide means you’ll get stories and context you simply can’t find in a self-guided book, making it more enriching.

However, be aware that entrance to the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace is not included. If you want to explore these further, you’ll need to purchase additional tickets or upgrade your experience. Also, the tour operates under the possibility of short-notice closures due to state functions, though your guide will adapt accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re fascinated by royal history, architecture, or “The Crown,” and prefer guided insights over solo wandering, this tour is a winner. It suits travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling and access to historic sites, especially those who want to avoid long lines at Westminster Abbey. It’s also great for those eager to see the Upper Gallery — a rare treat for visitors interested in royal artifacts.

On the flip side, if you’re less mobile or prefer a more flexible, self-paced visit, you might find the walking and stairs challenging. Budget travelers should also consider that this is a premium experience with a higher price point, but the value lies in the access, guidance, and insider stories.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of Westminster Abbey, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries, Buckingham Palace, and London’s iconic sights offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience some of London’s most treasured landmarks. The expert guidance and skip-the-line access help you make the most of your limited time, while the inside views of the Abbey and its galleries provide a rare glimpse into royal life.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing, love history and architecture, and want meaningful stories behind the sights. If you’re willing to invest in a comprehensive, guided experience, this tour will deepen your appreciation for London’s royal traditions and historic grandeur.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking and some stairs, so consider your children’s comfort with these.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation isn’t provided. The tour starts at Westminster Abbey and includes outside visits to Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.

Can I upgrade to see the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, there’s an optional upgrade available that provides the opportunity to see and learn about the centuries-old Changing of the Guard ceremony.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, including entrance times and walking between sights.

What is included in the ticket price?
Skip-the-line tickets to Westminster Abbey, entrance to the Queen Diamond Jubilee Galleries, access to the Cloisters, and the services of a Blue Badge guide are included.

Are tickets to Buckingham Palace included?
No, the exterior visit of Buckingham Palace is included, but interior access is not.

Is the tour operated rain or shine?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions. Dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

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

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking and uneven surfaces. Dress for the weather, especially if rain is forecast.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler eager to deepen your understanding, this tour offers a rewarding way to explore London’s royal past and present with expert guidance and insider access.