Buckingham Palace & Crown Jewels of London Tour with River Cruise

Imagine spending a full day exploring London’s most celebrated sights—Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and cruising along the River Thames. For around $233 per person, this nearly 8-hour guided experience offers a well-rounded taste of royal grandeur, historic architecture, and the city’s vibrant waterside scenery. Led by knowledgeable guides and equipped with modern amenities like Wi-Fi and USB charging in the coach, this tour balances indoor sightseeing with scenic boat rides, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms—a rare peek into royal interiors—and to experience the Tower of London’s Crown Jewels firsthand. Plus, the river cruise offers a unique perspective on London’s waterfront, which many visitors miss when exploring on their own. On the flip side, keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and stairs, especially at the Tower, which might not suit travelers with limited mobility. This experience is perfect for history buffs and those eager to tick off London’s biggest landmarks in one go, especially if you appreciate guided insights and comfortable transportation.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience covering London’s top royal and historic sites in one day
• Expert guides provide engaging, knowledgeable commentary that brings sites to life
• Convenient transportation with Wi-Fi-enabled coach and included river cruise
• Flexible viewing with ample time for photos and soaking in the city’s atmosphere
• Includes tickets to Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Ideal for history lovers and travelers who want a structured, all-in-one tour

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Buckingham Palace

Your journey begins at The King’s Gallery, right in front of Buckingham Palace, at 9:15 a.m. This is a fantastic spot to kick off your day, standing amid the buzz of central London with the possibility of catching the changing of the guard if timing aligns. The tour is structured to give you two hours at Buckingham Palace, where you’ll explore the State Rooms—an experience often described as “amazing” by travelers. These rooms are decorated with treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck. The furniture and porcelain pieces are exquisite, and the rooms are used for ceremonies and entertaining, making them a window into royal life.

A key point here is that admission tickets are included, so there’s no waiting in line—just enjoy the grandeur. One review mentions, “Sheela was amazing!!! She knew so much about everything,” illustrating how a knowledgeable guide can turn a visit into a captivating story rather than just a visual feast. Remember that security checks are similar to airport procedures, so bags larger than 45cm x 20cm x 30cm are not permitted. This quick security is a small price to pay for access to such a historic residence.

The Majesty of St. Paul’s Cathedral

Next, the tour shifts to St. Paul’s Cathedral—a true symbol of London’s resilience and grandeur. Built by Sir Christopher Wren between 1675-1710, it took 35 years to complete and remains one of the largest churches in the world. The dome dominates the skyline and was the tallest building in London until the 1960s. Inside, the seven chapels, priceless art, and the Europe’s largest crypt make it a treasure trove for architecture lovers and history buffs.

While the cathedral is free to enter, the tour includes admission tickets, and you’ll spend around two hours exploring. If you’re visiting on a Sunday or during special events, the cathedral might be closed to visitors, in which case your guide will adjust the itinerary—perhaps spending extra time at the Tower of London instead. One reviewer shared, “The tour was just amazing with the guide Helene & Driver Emir,” highlighting the benefit of having a passionate guide to navigate the interior’s treasures. Expect some stairs within the interior, but the experience is well worth the effort.

The Tower of London and Crown Jewels

The next stop is the Tower of London, a fortress with a history spanning nearly 1,000 years. Built by William the Conqueror, it has served as a royal residence, prison, and execution site. It’s a place full of stories—some gruesome, some regal. You’ll see the Crown Jewels, including the Star of Africa—the largest cut diamond in the world—and crowns, robes, and regalia used in royal ceremonies.

The two-hour visit here gives you plenty of time to absorb the atmosphere—though be prepared for some stairs within the White Tower. One traveller noted, “There are quite a few stairs, and there is currently no disabled access,” so it’s worth considering if mobility is an issue. The guided commentary brings history alive, making it clear why this site remains one of London’s top attractions. The Crown Jewels are a highlight, and most visitors agree they’re even more dazzling in person than in pictures.

A Scenic Thames River Cruise

After soaking in the history, it’s time for a change of perspective. You’ll head to Tower Pier and hop on a 45-minute boat cruise along the River Thames. This is a favorite part of the experience for many, offering stunning views of London’s skyline—the Houses of Parliament, the Millennium Bridge, and the Gherkin—from the water. The cruise departs from Tower Pier and ends at Westminster Pier, right next to the Houses of Parliament.

This part of the tour is highly valued, especially since it’s included in the price. One reviewer noted, “Enjoy a unique view of London’s waterfront,” emphasizing how the river adds a fresh dimension to sightseeing. The boat ride is smooth, scenic, and a relaxing way to transition between the historic sites.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Timing

The tour begins promptly at 9:15 a.m., with the meeting point at Buckingham Palace. The coach is modern, equipped with Wi-Fi and USB ports, making the commute between sites comfortable and connected. You’ll walk about 10-15 minutes between Buckingham Palace and the meeting point for the afternoon activities, which is manageable even with a bit of luggage or if you prefer to stretch your legs.

Duration & Pacing

With around 8 hours of activities, this tour is a full day but well-paced. The schedule allows for ample photo opportunities and time to soak in the ambiance of each site. The afternoon portion begins at 1:00 p.m. at 258 Vauxhall Bridge Road, where guides will reconvene for the second half of your adventure. Expect the tour to wrap up around 5:30 p.m. at Westminster Pier.

Cost & Value

At $232.59, the price includes admission tickets, guided commentary, a river cruise, and comfortable transportation—pretty good value considering the number of sites visited. Compared to booking individual tickets and guides, this bundled approach simplifies your planning and ensures you see the highlights with expert insights.

Considerations

• This tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues as some sites involve stairs and walking.
• Lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase something during the day.
• The river cruise is optional on other days, but it’s integrated here for a seamless experience.
• Since St. Paul’s may be closed on Sundays or during special events, the itinerary adjusts accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers eager to see London’s royal and historic landmarks in one day. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate guided storytelling and want an easy, all-in-one package. If you’re traveling with family, the mix of indoor and outdoor activities keeps everyone engaged. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility limitations, you might want to consider individual visits or smaller tours.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $233, this tour offers a rundown of London’s most famous sites, paired with expert guides who bring history to life. The inclusion of tickets, transportation, and a scenic river cruise means fewer hassles and more time to enjoy each location. The highlighted stops—Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s, the Tower, and the Thames—are all bucket-list essentials, and the guided approach enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing.

If you’re a history enthusiast, a royalist, or simply someone wanting a well-structured day of London exploration, this tour delivers solid value. The reviews praise the guides and the views, emphasizing how much these elements enhance the visit. Just be prepared for the walking and stairs, and plan your day accordingly.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes tickets to Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, a guided commentary, a river cruise from Tower Pier to Westminster Pier, and Wi-Fi-equipped transportation.

Does the tour start and end at the same place?
No, it starts at Buckingham Palace and ends at Westminster Pier after the river cruise.

Can I skip the river cruise?
Yes, you can choose to finish the tour at the Tower of London instead of Westminster Pier, but check with your guide about cruise ticket validity.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included—plan to bring snacks or buy food during the day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as there will be some walking and stairs involved.

Is there any time flexibility?
The schedule is structured, but guides may adjust if sites are closed or during special events like Sundays when St. Paul’s is closed.

Are tickets included?
Yes, all major site tickets are included, avoiding long waits.

How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 53 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the walking and stairs at the Tower. It’s best for children who can handle a full day of sightseeing.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a balanced, engaging way to experience London’s royalty, architecture, and scenic waterways—all in one well-organized day. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an informative, full-spectrum overview without the hassle of planning each visit separately.