The Crown British Royalty Walking Tour

A walk through London’s most iconic royal landmarks, inspired by Netflix’s The Crown, offers an authentic glimpse into Britain’s regal history. This 3-hour tour takes you past Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Parliament Square, giving you a taste of royal life, all while exploring London’s vibrant streets. The tour is perfect for those who love history, royal intrigue, and picturesque cityscapes, all wrapped into a manageable walking experience.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it combines storytelling with sightseeing. The guides seem genuinely passionate, and their knowledge makes each site fascinating. The one downside? If you’re not a fan of walking or have mobility restrictions, this might be a bit more demanding — but for most, it’s a walk that’s both manageable and rewarding.

This experience suits travelers who want a compact yet insightful overview of London’s royal areas, especially those interested in The Crown or British royalty in general. With small groups of no more than 15 people, it also ensures an intimate, personalized feel.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, engaging guides make history come alive.
• Prime Locations: See top royal landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey.
• Authentic Insights: Learn captivating stories behind the sites, including royal traditions and history.
• Convenient Schedule: Multiple departure times give flexibility.
• Affordable Value: Cost-effective at about $38.58 per person for a comprehensive tour.
• Small Group Experience: Max 15 travelers for a more personal tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Buckingham Palace: The Heart of Royal London

We loved the way the tour begins with a walk through Green Park, heading toward Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the King. Your guide, likely someone like Chris (who received praise for his knowledge), will share stories about royal traditions and the history behind this impressive building. On certain days, you might catch the Changing of the Guard, an event that adds a splash of pomp and ceremony to your visit. Your guide will find the best spot to watch this spectacle, which is a highlight for many visitors.

Standing outside the palace, you’ll get a real sense of royal grandeur. The tour allows for photos and questions, making it a relaxed yet informative start. Keep in mind that if you’re visiting on a day when the guard change doesn’t happen, the walk still provides stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.

Trafalgar Square: London’s Iconic Gathering Spot

Next, the tour takes you to Trafalgar Square, a bustling hub full of history and life. Here, you’ll see Nelson’s Column, the famous fountains, and the National Gallery. It’s a great chance to soak in the city’s energy and snap some photos of London’s vibrant streetscape. The guide will share snippets of history, like Nelson’s role in British naval victories, making this stop both scenic and educational.

Horse Guards Parade and St. James’s Park

From Trafalgar Square, the group heads to Horse Guards Parade, a grand open space that’s been used for royal ceremonies for centuries. You’ll admire the famous arch and get a good shot of the clock tower — an excellent photo opportunity. The guide may point out interesting facts, like the parade ground’s role in royal ceremonies and events.

Strolling over to St. James’s Park, you’ll appreciate its beautiful landscaped gardens and views of horse-mounted guards. It’s a peaceful spot that offers a break from busy city streets, perfect for some relaxed sightseeing and taking in the regal atmosphere.

Whitehall: Political Powerhouse

Walking along Whitehall, the tour reveals a street lined with historic government buildings, including Downing Street — home to the Prime Minister since 1735. While you won’t get to see the gates of 10 Downing Street, the tour provides plenty of context about its significance. The guide will point out notable monuments and explain their relevance to British political history.

Parliament Square and the Houses of Parliament

A highlight for many is the visit to Parliament Square, where the Palace of Westminster (home to the Houses of Parliament) dominates the skyline. You’ll get close-up views of Big Ben and the Churchill Statue, with views of the London Eye adding to the picturesque scene. The guide might share stories behind the buildings and the political history embedded here, enriching your understanding of Britain’s governance.

Westminster Abbey: Royal Ceremonies and Historic Grandeur

The tour wraps up at Westminster Abbey, a site with over a thousand years of history. This is where British monarchs are crowned and royal weddings take place. While you won’t enter the church, the guide will highlight its architectural marvels, key royal events, and stories of famous figures buried here. The fact that it’s a site of continuous royal significance makes it a perfect finale.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour is priced at $38.58 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the location and in-depth storytelling. The fee covers the local guide and walking tour of all these key sites, along with the chance to sit in Parliament Square and absorb the sights.

However, it doesn’t include lunch, drinks, or transportation to and from the meeting point. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or water, especially in warmer weather, and be prepared for about three hours of walking.

Meeting Point & Logistics

The tour begins at the Ritz London, an iconic and easily accessible location. It ends near Westminster Station, making it convenient to hop on the Tube afterward. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate feel, allowing for questions and personal interaction with the guide.

Why This Tour Works

The standout feature here is the knowledgeable guiding, which reviewers say makes the experience engaging and informative. Jackie D, who took the tour, praised the guide Chris for his “lots of information and key facts,” and noted that “we had ample time at all the key places to take photos and ask questions.”

The tour’s focus on royal landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Parliament Square makes it particularly appealing to fans of The Crown or anyone interested in British royalty. The stunning views and well-chosen stops allow you to soak in the atmosphere of London’s heart of power and tradition.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This walking tour offers a balance of history, culture, and sightseeing, making it ideal for travelers who want a manageable but rundown of London’s royal sites. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see the most iconic landmarks, all narrated by a knowledgeable guide who can bring history to life.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic stories behind the buildings and enjoys beautiful city views, this experience will not disappoint. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors, history buffs, or fans of The Crown who want to see the real locations behind the series.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are less mobile, consider how much walking is involved, as this is a walking-only tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and since the tour is about 3 hours long with a small group, it’s manageable for older children interested in history and royal sites.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 42 days ahead is typical, and it’s recommended to secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons.

Are there different departure times?
Yes, you can choose from three different departure times, offering flexibility to fit your schedule.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point at The Ritz is near public transport, and the tour ends close to Westminster Station.

Does the tour include entry to any buildings?
No, all sites are viewed from the outside; entry to places like Westminster Abbey is not included.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, some water, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning sights along the way.

To sum it up, the Crown British Royalty Walking Tour offers a well-balanced, engaging way to explore London’s most regal sites without the hassle of transportation or large crowds. It’s a smart choice for those who want authentic insights, beautiful views, and a personal touch from knowledgeable guides—all for a reasonable price. Whether you’re a royal enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking a meaningful way to experience London’s core, this tour will deepen your appreciation for the city’s centuries-old monarchy and its grand architecture.