Buckingham Palace, Change the Guard & Crown Jewels Tour

Planning a trip to London often means juggling a lineup of must-see sights, and this tour bundles some of the most iconic landmarks into a well-organized four-hour experience. From the regal charm of Buckingham Palace to the historic intrigue of the Tower of London, it promises a blend of royal pageantry and medieval history. Led by knowledgeable guides, this small-group tour aims to give you a deeper understanding of London’s royal and historical landscape—all while keeping the experience engaging and accessible.

One of the aspects we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances storytelling with sightseeing. The guides seem genuinely passionate about sharing tales that bring places like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to life. The included highlights—like the Changing of the Guard and Crown Jewels—are classic London experiences, but the way they’re woven into a cohesive narrative makes the journey memorable.

A possible consideration? This tour involves quite a bit of walking over uneven surfaces and cobblestones, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since some attractions like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London require separate entry tickets, be prepared for additional costs if you wish to go inside, as these are not included in the ticket price.

This tour suits travelers who want a compact, informative overview of London’s royal and historic highlights, especially those who enjoy hearing stories from engaging guides and prefer small-group experiences over large crowds.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines royal sights, historic landmarks, and stories in a 4-hour span.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance storytelling and share lesser-known facts.
• Prime landmarks: Witness the Changing of the Guard, see Big Ben and Houses of Parliament, and explore the Tower of London’s Crown Jewels.
• Outdoor focus: Mostly exterior visits with some photo stops, so weather can influence the experience.
• Small group intimacy: Smaller groups ensure a more personal and flexible experience.
• Additional costs: Entry tickets for some sites like Buckingham Palace or the Tower are not included.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

This tour kicks off at the Constance Fund Fountain of Diana in Green Park, a short walk from Green Park Tube Station. Meeting 15 minutes early, you’ll be greeted by your guide—someone well-versed in London’s history who’s eager to share stories in an engaging manner. From the outset, the guide’s enthusiasm helps set a lively tone for the morning.

Buckingham Palace & Changing the Guard

The exterior visit of Buckingham Palace offers a chance to marvel at the grand facade of the Queen’s official residence. While the interior isn’t part of this tour, the guide will share captivating stories about the palace’s history and its role in royal life. One thing to note: the Changing of the Guard is a highlight that many travelers look forward to, and this tour aims to witness it if the schedule and weather permit. You’ll see the precision and regalia of the King’s Guards, a parade of discipline and pomp that’s truly a spectacle.

Reviewers mention that guides are excellent at timing the guard change, but since it’s subject to schedule and weather, it’s good to keep expectations flexible. One guest shared, “The guide was so knowledgeable and made the guard change extra special with fun facts I never knew.” This part of the tour provides excellent photo opportunities, so bring your camera or smartphone.

Westminster and Big Ben

Next, the tour walks toward Westminster, where you’ll see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from the outside. The guide provides historical context about London’s legislative heart and architectural marvels. There’s also a quick photo stop at the London Eye, providing a contrasting modern view of the city’s skyline.

This segment is perfect for those interested in political history and architecture. The guide’s commentary makes these well-known sights feel fresh and insightful, rather than just photo backdrops. Reviewers appreciate the combination of visual beauty with storytelling, noting that it enhances their understanding of London’s political and cultural fabric.

Tower of London and Crown Jewels

The second half of the tour takes you across the Thames to the Tower of London, a fortress with centuries of stories. Your guide will share tales of its construction, royal imprisonments, and executions—highlighting the darker, more intriguing side of London’s history.

Most guests are excited to see the Crown Jewels, which are stored within the Tower. The jewel display sparkles with crowns, scepters, and other regalia, each with its own story. The White Tower itself is a medieval marvel, and the Bloody Tower and Tower Green evoke tales of intrigue and tragedy.

In reviews, many note that the Beefeaters—the traditional Yeoman Warders—are not only informative but also humorous, often sharing ghost stories and legends. Visitors also appreciate the opportunity to browse the Tower’s gift shop for royal-themed souvenirs to remember the day.

Practical Details and Tips

While the tour provides priority entry to the Tower of London, it doesn’t include entry tickets for Buckingham Palace or the Tower. Travelers should plan for additional costs if they want inside access. But even just walking around these sites offers plenty of photo opportunities and a sense of grandeur.

The group size is small enough to allow personalized attention, and the pace is steady without feeling rushed. The guide’s storytelling style and knowledge make even the most familiar sights feel engaging and worth the visit.

Duration and Logistics

The four-hour duration is quite efficient, balancing sightseeing with enough time to absorb stories and take photos. The meeting point is easy to find, and arriving 15 minutes early is advised to ensure a smooth start.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes—since the tour involves walking over cobblestones, hills, and stairs—and dress appropriately for the weather, as much of the tour is outdoors. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or large luggage, and children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $174 per person, this tour is a solid investment if you’re after a well-rounded overview of London’s royal and historic sites. It offers priority access to one of the city’s most visited attractions—the Tower of London—and provides expert narration that deepens your appreciation of each landmark.

Because it’s a small-group experience, you get a more intimate, flexible atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions or linger for photos. While some sites require additional entry fees, the guided exterior visits and storytelling alone are often enough to justify the cost.

This tour is especially valuable for first-time visitors wanting a structured, informative experience that covers the essentials without feeling overwhelming or rushed. It combines sightseeing, history, and local insights into a manageable four-hour window—ideal for travelers with busy schedules or those who prefer a concise, enriching overview.

The Sum Up

This Buckingham Palace, Change the Guard & Crown Jewels Tour provides a thoughtful blend of royal pomp, medieval history, and London’s political heart. The knowledgeable guides and small group setting make it more engaging than typical large-group excursions. The focus on storytelling enhances the experience, transforming well-known landmarks into memorable stories.

It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see the main attractions without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. While additional costs for entry tickets exist, the tour’s value lies in its expert narration, prime outdoor views, and the chance to learn fascinating stories along the way.

This tour fits best for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to get a snapshot of London’s regal and historic soul—delivered in a friendly, accessible, and entertaining manner.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 18 years must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is educational and engaging, but it involves quite a bit of walking and standing.

Are entry tickets to Buckingham Palace included?
No, the tour does not include entry tickets to Buckingham Palace or the Tower of London, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you wish to go inside.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as there’s a good amount of walking over uneven surfaces. Dress weather-appropriate, especially if rain or cold weather is forecasted.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather, so be prepared for rain or shine.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to meet your guide comfortably at the designated meeting point.

What’s included in the tour?
A guided walking tour with a knowledgeable guide, exterior visits of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Houses of Parliament, and a photo stop at the London Eye.

Are transportation arrangements provided?
No, travelers should have an Oyster Card, Travel Card, or contactless payment for transportation between sites.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or using mobility scooters or wheelchairs, due to uneven surfaces and stairs.

What languages is the tour available in?
The tour is conducted in English only.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately four hours, including walking and storytelling.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or simply eager to tick off London’s most famous sights, this tour offers a well-balanced, insightful experience—delivering a memorable snapshot of the city’s royal and historic essence.