Royal London Tour with Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace

Experience the Royal London Tour with Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace

This tour packs a lot into just seven hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but a keen desire to see the highlights of London’s royal side. For $177.45 per person, you’ll visit iconic sites like Buckingham Palace, watch the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, stroll past Westminster Abbey, and take in views of Big Ben and the Parliament. The day wraps up with a relaxing afternoon tea at the luxurious Rubens at the Palace hotel, right near the Royal Mews.

What we love about this experience is its combination of guided sightseeing and a decadent tea — a perfect blend of culture, history, and indulgence. The expert Blue Badge guide helps bring the city’s stories to life, and the comfortable coach with Wi-Fi and USB charging means you can relax or share your photos along the way. Plus, the stunning views from the Palace Lounge make the afternoon tea a memorable highlight.

A possible consideration is the timing of the Changing of the Guard, which only occurs on specific days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday). On days without the official guard change, you’ll visit Horse Guards Parade instead, so it’s good to check the schedule ahead of time. This flexibility ensures you won’t miss key sights, but it’s worth planning your visit accordingly.

This tour best suits first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, hassle-free overview of London’s royal and historic sites, with the added bonus of a refined afternoon tea. It’s also suitable for all ages and accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, making it a family-friendly option.

Key Points
– Convenient guided tour covers major royal landmarks and historic sites in a single day.
– Expert guide enhances the experience with storytelling and local insights.
– Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and USB charging keeps you connected.
– Stunning afternoon tea at The Rubens offers a luxurious and relaxing end to your sightseeing.
– Ideal for short visits and those wanting a taste of London’s royal traditions.
– Accessible and family-friendly, suitable for travelers of all ages.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at Victoria Coach Station at 9:00 am, where you’ll board a superior coach equipped with Wi-Fi and USB ports. This setup means you can stay connected and even charge your devices while making your way through London’s most recognizable sights. The first stop is Westminster Abbey, a Gothic marvel and the site of coronations and royal burials. While you won’t go inside on this tour, the guide will share fascinating stories about its history and significance.

Next, you’ll pass Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster, the imposing home of the UK Parliament. Standing beneath the clock tower—renamed Elizabeth Tower—you can appreciate its iconic silhouette and learn about its role in British governance. Then, a brief drive along Whitehall offers views of government buildings and the historic 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence.

The highlight for many is the Buckingham Palace stop. You’ll see the grand façade and, if your visit coincides with the schedule, witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This event is a true display of pomp, with soldiers in traditional uniforms and precise drill routines. According to reviews, many visitors find this a real “pomp and pageantry” experience that embodies Britain’s sense of ceremony.

If the guard change isn’t happening that day, the guide will take you to Horse Guards Parade instead—another royal fixture with its own impressive history. Here, you can soak up the regal atmosphere and capture memorable photos.

The final stop before the afternoon tea is the Royal Mews, where the royal carriages and stables are housed. Though you won’t see the interiors today, the guide will explain their significance and role in royal events.

The Luxury Afternoon Tea at The Rubens

From around 12:00 pm, you’ll head to The Rubens at the Palace Hotel for a four-hour afternoon tea experience. This 5-star venue boasts a bright, elegant Palace Lounge with panoramic views of the Queen’s stables, giving you a unique, royal-themed atmosphere. As you sip a selection of house cocktails (reviewers rave about them), you’ll enjoy an assortment of finger sandwiches, fresh-made pastries, and traditional scones with clotted cream and jam.

Guests have praised the service as “excellent,” and many mention how the experience made for lasting memories. Ingrid R. describes it as “magnificent,” highlighting the quality of the scones and pastries, and Michelle Y. enjoyed the house cocktails that complemented the meal perfectly.

This part of the tour is a perfect way to unwind after a busy morning of sightseeing, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a touch of luxury. The setting’s proximity to the Royal Mews allows a seamless transition from sightseeing to indulgence.

Practical Details and Group Experience

The tour is designed for max 52 travelers, balancing group cohesion with enough space to enjoy the sights comfortably. With a mobile ticket and expert Blue Badge guide, you’re in good hands for accurate, lively narration. The coach provides a convenient way to cover more ground than walking, particularly since some sights are far apart.

The cost of $177.45 may seem steep at first glance, but it includes the guided tour, transportation, Wi-Fi, audio headsets, and the afternoon tea—which is a premium experience in itself. Without the hassle of booking separate tickets or navigating public transport, this package offers good value, especially for those eager to hit the highlights quickly.

It’s worth noting that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Victoria Coach Station. The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am, so arriving a little early is advisable.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Visitors

Guests consistently mention how knowledgeable guides made the day engaging and informative. Michelle Y. notes that the afternoon tea was “highly recommended,” emphasizing its wondrous cocktails and quality. Ingrid R. adds that the service at The Rubens was “excellent,” making the experience feel truly special.

Many travelers appreciate the stunning views from the Palace Lounge, which allow a peek into royal life without intrusion. The convenience of a guided sightseeing experience means you don’t have to worry about planning routes or missing key spots, making it perfect for first-timers or those with limited time.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Royal London Tour with Afternoon Tea is an excellent choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of London’s royal and parliamentary history. If you’re short on time but want to see Buckingham Palace, Westminster, and Big Ben without the stress of figuring out public transport, this guided tour offers a hassle-free solution.

The addition of a luxurious afternoon tea elevates this experience from simply sightseeing to a true taste of British tradition. It’s particularly suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who loves a bit of royal grandeur and a good meal in a beautiful setting.

While the schedule is tight, the combination of expert narration, comfortable coach travel, and a memorable tea makes this a valuable investment for those eager to get a well-rounded taste of London’s royal side. Just remember to check the schedule for the Changing of the Guard if that’s a must-see for you.

FAQs

Is transportation provided from my hotel?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll meet at Victoria Coach Station, so plan on arranging your own transportation there.

How long is the tour?
The sightseeing part lasts about 3 hours, from 9:00 am to approximately 12:00 pm, followed by 4 hours for afternoon tea, ending around 4:00 pm.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, including families with strollers and wheelchair users, thanks to the accessible coach and sites.

Are tickets to Buckingham Palace included?
No, admission tickets for Buckingham Palace are not included, but you’ll see the exterior and witness the Changing of the Guard from outside.

What days does the Changing of the Guard happen?
It currently takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. If it’s not scheduled, you’ll visit Horse Guards Parade instead.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size and guided format make it easy to meet fellow travelers and share the experience.

What’s the dress code?
Smart casual is fine. Since you’ll be traveling in a coach and visiting formal sites, dress comfortably but respectfully.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 50 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

In summary, this tour offers a well-paced, informative, and luxurious way to see London’s royal landmarks and enjoy a classic afternoon tea. It combines practical convenience with the kind of storytelling and views that make the British royal tradition so charming—perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, hassle-free experience.