Visit Kensington Palace & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour

A Walk Through London’s Heart: Kensington Palace & Westminster Tour

London has a way of making history come alive, especially when you’re exploring with a knowledgeable guide. This particular tour offers an engaging blend of iconic landmarks and royal history, all packed into roughly five hours. For just $116.51 per person, you get to walk through Westminster’s most famous sights—Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey—plus a ticket to explore Kensington Palace independently afterward.

What we love most about this experience is the seamless combination of guided sightseeing and free time at a royal residence. The guide’s commentary adds a personal touch, sharing stories and details that bring each location to life. Second, the inclusion of tickets to Kensington Palace makes it a real value, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace after the walking tour.

However, a point to consider is the timing and logistics—specifically, that the tour does not include transportation to Kensington Palace, which is around a 30-minute walk or £5 by public transport. Also, since the Changing of the Guard is only on certain days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday), if seeing that event is a priority, you’ll want to plan accordingly.

This tour is ideally suited for visitors who want to hit many of London’s highlights in a short amount of time, appreciate guided insights, and enjoy some flexibility in exploring a royal residence on their own. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen to learn stories behind the sights rather than just ticking boxes.

Key Points

• Comprehensive sightseeing in a manageable 5-hour window
• Guided commentary enhances understanding of London’s landmarks
• Tickets included for Kensington Palace, offering independent exploration
• Limited walking outside (most sites are within walking distance)
• Prime for time-pressed travelers who want a well-rounded overview
• Transport to Kensington Palace is not included, so plan accordingly

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard

You start your morning in central London, meeting your guide outside The Ritz London at 10:00 am. After a quick stroll through the lush Green Park, your first highlight is Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the monarchy. Here, your guide will share stories of British royal history, which breathe life into the grand façade. If you’re visiting on a day when the Changing of the Guard happens (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday), you’ll have a front-row seat—your guide will find the best vantage point.

This ceremony is a impressive display of pageantry. As one reviewer noted, their guide “showed us the best vantage point,” making the experience more than just a crowd-watching event. For many, it’s one of those quintessential London moments that’s worth the early start.

Trafalgar Square and Whitehall

Next, you’ll walk a short distance to Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery’s impressive façade. It’s a lively hub of arts, protests, and celebrations—perfect for snapping photos. The guide will point out key buildings and share stories behind the statues and fountains.

From there, the tour takes you to Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall, where the iconic arch and the Horse Guards themselves provide classic photo opportunities. Walking along Whitehall, you’ll see government buildings, including Downing Street, the residence of British Prime Ministers since 1735. The tour offers an inside look at British political history, with commentary on the significance of Whitehall’s historic sites.

Westminster Abbey and Parliament

The grand Palace of Westminster and Big Ben dominate the view at Parliament Square. The guide will share the stories behind these iconic structures, which have been at the center of British politics for centuries. The nearby Churchill Statue and views of the London Eye provide additional context.

While the interior of Westminster Abbey isn’t included in the tour, the guide will give you a sense of its history and importance. The Abbey’s centuries of royal ceremonies, including coronations, are well worth understanding—your guide’s insights make it more meaningful even from outside.

Kensington Palace and Free Time

The final stop of the walking portion is Kensington Palace, Prince William and Kate’s official residence. Here, your guide will give you tickets and directions, but won’t accompany you inside. This flexible part of the tour lasts about two hours, allowing you to explore the historic rooms, gardens, and exhibitions at your own pace.

Previous guests mention that the surrounding park is a highlight—free and less crowded than inside the palace, it’s perfect for a stroll or a quiet moment of reflection. Some reviews suggest that visiting the palace interior isn’t always worth the time, describing it as “an absolute disappointment,” but the gardens and surrounding area are often praised as the best part.

The Logistics: What You Need to Know

The tour begins at The Ritz at 10:00 am and finishes with the Kensington Palace tickets handed out afterward. Since the tour guide does not accompany you into Kensington Palace, you’ll need to manage your own transportation there, which costs about £5 and takes around 30 minutes on public transport.

Some travelers have expressed confusion about directions, highlighting the importance of reading the instructions provided. It’s worth noting that the Changing of the Guard schedule isn’t guaranteed every day, depending on the British Army’s set timings, and that the timed entrance to Kensington Palace may not align with your plans if you want to visit the palace immediately after the tour.

Group Size and Overall Experience

With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and engage with your guide. Guest reviews mention guides like Benedict and Will, praising their knowledge, humor, and pacing. Many highlight how their guides made history fun and approachable.

The walking is outside and involves a fair amount of ground, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must—especially in winter or rainy conditions. Despite some reviews mentioning it can be a bit rushed or a lot of walking, most agree that the experience offers a good balance between seeing the sights and enjoying the commentary.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative introduction to Westminster, Buckingham Palace, and Kensington Palace, this tour hits the spot. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview without the hassle of planning individual sites. The inclusion of Kensington Palace tickets is a bonus, though you’ll need to handle your transportation and entry.

It’s also great for travelers who enjoy small-group tours with lively guides who share stories and local insights. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore interiors more thoroughly, you might consider a different option. But for those with limited time, this tour offers a balanced, enjoyable snapshot of London’s royal and political core.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Changing of the Guard included in the tour?
Yes, but only on specific days—Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday—when it typically occurs at 10:00 am. Your guide will find the best viewing spot.

How long do I have at Kensington Palace?
You receive tickets for approximately two hours of independent exploration. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation there after the walk.

Is transportation to Kensington Palace included?
No, it’s not. You should budget about £5 for a one-way trip on public transit, and plan your route in advance.

Can I join the tour if I don’t want to walk?
This tour is primarily walking-based and involves a considerable amount of outside walking in London’s streets. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a good pace and outdoor elements.

What if I am late for the tour?
Guests have noted that punctuality is essential. Arriving late might mean missing parts of the tour, especially the Changing of the Guard.

Are children or seniors likely to enjoy this?
Most reviews suggest the guide’s storytelling is engaging for all ages, but the walk involves a fair amount of outdoor activity, so consider your group’s mobility.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a small snack—lunch isn’t included.

Is the tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
Since much of the sightseeing involves walking and standing outside, it may not be ideal for guests with mobility issues.

How many people are in each group?
Up to 15, ensuring a more personal experience and easier interaction with your guide.

What do I do after the tour if I want to see inside Kensington Palace?
You can follow the guide’s instructions and use your tickets to visit the palace independently at your convenience.

Final Word

This tour combines the charm of London’s most famous landmarks with engaging storytelling and the flexibility to explore Kensington Palace on your own. It offers a practical, well-structured way to get a rundown of Westminster and royal highlights, perfect for travelers eager to maximize a short visit. While it requires some planning—especially regarding transportation—many guests praise their guides and the value for the price. If you love history, iconic sights, and a friendly small-group environment, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your London trip.