Royal London Tour incl Buckingham Palace & Changing of Guard

Discover Royal London in a Full-Day Tour

If you’re fascinated by British royalty and eager to see iconic sites like Buckingham Palace, this tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into London’s regal side. For $140, you’ll spend around 8 hours exploring some of the city’s most celebrated landmarks, guided by knowledgeable experts. The day includes a panoramic coach tour, entry into St. Paul’s Cathedral, and access to Buckingham Palace, including the chance to witness the famous Changing of the Guard.

What we really appreciate is how this tour combines cultural history with visual spectacle—you get to sit back and enjoy the sights, including a photo stop at Buckingham Palace (weather permitting). Also, the entry to Buckingham Palace is especially notable since the State Rooms are only open when the Queen is away in Scotland, making this a rare opportunity for visitors.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Changing of the Guard doesn’t happen every day and is subject to weather conditions, which might disappoint if you’re hoping for this visual highlight. Still, even just seeing the march and the palace’s exterior makes for a memorable experience. This tour is ideal for anyone who loves royal history, beautiful architecture, or wants a well-organized way to see London’s top sights in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral for a well-rounded royal experience
• Panoramic coach tour offers a comfortable way to see London’s famous landmarks
• Entry to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms (when available) provides a rare inside view
• Changing of the Guard (or march) offers a colorful spectacle and photo opportunity
• Tour duration of 8 hours balances sightseeing with comfort
• Suitable for all mobility levels—the coach is wheelchair accessible

A Deep Dive into the Royal London Experience

When we think about visiting London, the chance to get close to its royal institutions is often a highlight, and this tour aims to deliver just that. Starting bright and early at Buckingham Palace Road, we found the check-in straightforward, with a friendly guide who set the tone for the day. The modern, clean bus is a real plus, making the journey comfortable, especially after a long flight or a busy morning exploring on your own.

The Panoramic Coach Tour

Our day began with a sightseeing drive around London’s most celebrated landmarks. From the Tower of London to the Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, the views from the bus allowed us to relax while getting a solid overview of the cityscape. Our guide provided insightful commentary, pointing out specific details that help bring the city’s history alive. If you’re eager to see London’s skyline, this is a great way to get your bearings before walking around.

Inside St. Paul’s Cathedral

Next, we arrived at the spectacular St. Paul’s Cathedral, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. The interior is awe-inspiring, with its soaring dome and intricate mosaics. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each area, from the whispering gallery to the tombs of notable figures. A quick note: on Sundays, the interior is closed to guide visits due to church services, but the exterior view remains impressive.

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Witnessing the Changing of the Guard

Perhaps the most talked-about part of the day is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. We arrived early enough to secure a spot where we could clearly see the soldiers in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats march in formation. Our guide shared tips on where to stand for the best view—a helpful detail considering how crowded it can get. Many reviews emphasize how this is a spectacle worth seeing; one visitor remarked, “The guide told us the best spot to stand… and we were able to get a good view.”

However, it’s worth noting that the Guard Change doesn’t happen every day. The Marching Guards Change takes place daily and is often available even when the formal Guard Change isn’t scheduled. The ceremony can be affected by weather or security measures, so flexibility is key.

Inside Buckingham Palace

The highlight for many is the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace, which is only open to the public when the Queen is in Scotland. During our visit, we explored the State Rooms, which are filled with furnishings, artwork, and treasures from the Royal Collection—including works by Rubens, Canaletto, and Rembrandt. The rooms are exquisitely decorated, giving a glimpse into the royal lifestyle.

A review from a visitor noted, “The tour inside the palace was very interesting,” highlighting how special this inside look is. We appreciated the well-organized flow of rooms, which allowed us to absorb the grandeur without feeling rushed.

Buckingham Palace Gardens and Surroundings

After the palace visit, we took a leisurely walk around the garden, often called a “walled oasis” amid the busy city. The gardens host over 350 wildflowers and 30 bird species, offering a peaceful contrast to the city’s hustle. From the garden, we enjoyed fantastic views of the Palace’s lake and the West Front—a perfect photo op.

What the Tour Does Well

Based on reviews and our experience, some aspects really stand out. The knowledgeable guides are consistently praised for their helpful tips and engaging commentary. Many travelers appreciated being told exactly where to stand for the best view of the Guard March, which made a big difference in capturing good photos.

The combination of sights—from St. Paul’s to the palace’s exterior and interior—means you get a well-rounded experience of London’s royal heritage. The coach tour makes it easy to cover a lot of ground without fatigue, which is especially valuable if you’re short on time or traveling with family.

Possible Drawbacks

Some visitors expressed mild disappointment that they didn’t see the full Changing of the Guard in action, as it isn’t daily. Also, photography inside Buckingham Palace is prohibited, which can be frustrating for those eager to document the experience. The crowds at Buckingham Palace can also be intense, especially during peak tourist season or if the Guard Change occurs when many visitors are gathered.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits those who want a structured, informative day that covers the essentials of London’s royal sights. It’s great for first-timers, royal enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates comfortable transportation and inside access. If you’re interested in photography, plan to arrive early for the best outside shots, as security and crowding can limit options.

Pricing and Value

At $140, the price includes entry to key sites and a guided coach tour, which is a good deal considering the cost of individual ticketed entries and transportation. The free snack pack adds a nice touch, especially if you’re on the go. Keep in mind that food and beverages are extra, so you might want to pack snacks or plan to buy lunch after the tour.

Final Thoughts

This Royal London Tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing, historical insight, and convenience. It’s an excellent way to see the exterior and interior of Buckingham Palace, watch the Changing of the Guard (or a march), and explore St. Paul’s Cathedral—all in one organized day.

If you’re a royalty fanatic or simply want a rundown of London’s most iconic sites, this tour is a solid choice. It offers a lot of value for the price and is especially suitable for those who appreciate well-informed guides and a relaxed pace.

For travelers who want to maximize their limited time in London and experience the best of its royal heritage, this tour provides a memorable, engaging day out that’s both fun and educational.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the coach is designed to accommodate mobility needs.

Are the Inside Buckingham Palace tours available every day?
No, the State Rooms are only open when the Queen is away in Scotland, so availability depends on the royal schedule.

What happens if the Changing of the Guard isn’t scheduled that day?
You might see the Guards march towards the palace instead, which many reviews find equally impressive.

Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?
No, photography inside the palace is not allowed, so be prepared to enjoy the view without capturing it on camera.

How long do we spend inside St. Paul’s Cathedral?
The tour includes entry and a guided visit, but note that on Sundays, the interior is closed to guides due to services.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a panoramic coach tour, entry to St. Paul’s Cathedral, entry to Buckingham Palace, a professional guide during the coach tour, and a snack pack.

What should I bring?
Bring your e-ticket, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a camera (outside photos only). No need for meals as food isn’t included.

Is there a set start time?
Check availability for specific departure times, but check-in begins at 07:30 am, with departure at 08:00 am.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing.

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

This guided tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into London’s royal side, with insider tips and plenty of picture-worthy moments. Whether you’re a history buff, a royal enthusiast, or just want to see the highlights efficiently, it’s a day well spent exploring the heart of London’s monarchy.

You can check availability for your dates here: