Changing of the Guard & Royal Food Tour with 10+ Tastings

Getting a glimpse of London’s royal traditions is on most travelers’ bucket lists, and what better way than to combine that with a delicious food journey through the city’s historic streets? This tour offers a chance to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony up close, enhanced with behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive access, all while sampling over ten delicious food and drink tastings from suppliers trusted by the Royal Family.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the combination of cultural spectacle and authentic culinary delights, guided by a local who truly loves the city’s food scene. That said, the 3.5-hour tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing, so it’s best suited for visitors comfortable with a bit of physical activity. If you’re eager to learn about London’s royal customs and enjoy a curated tasting tour, this might be a perfect fit—just be prepared for some lively walking and a packed schedule.

Key Points

• Authentic Guide: Led by a passionate Londoner with a genuine love for food and history.
• Exclusive Access: Enjoy special treats and venue access that few travelers get.
• Royal Connection: Visit landmarks with royal warrants and hear insider stories.
• Tasting Variety: Over 15 food and drink tastings, including regional specialties and luxurious treats.
• Small Group: Up to 12 people for a personalized experience.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Lillywhites

The tour begins outside Lillywhites, a historic sports retailer near Piccadilly Circus. This is a practical, easy-to-find meeting point that sets the tone for a lively and engaging experience. The guide, an authentic Londoner, greets the group here, ready to share stories rooted in local knowledge and a true passion for food and history.

Witnessing the Changing of the Guard: St. James’s Palace

One of the tour’s highlights is getting up close to London’s most celebrated royal tradition. The group visits St. James’s Palace, where you’ll see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, often described as an impressive display of precision and pomp. The guide provides insights into the history and significance of the ceremony, which has been a royal tradition for generations.

While the British Army can sometimes alter or cancel the ceremony without notice, the tour team emphasizes that the food tasting portion proceeds regardless, ensuring you won’t miss out on the culinary experience. Reviewers mention that the front-row view along with the chance to walk alongside the Old Guard as they march from St. James’s Palace to Buckingham Palace makes this a unique moment.

Exploring Buckingham Palace and Royal Warranted Retailers

Next, the group heads to the facade of Buckingham Palace—the iconic symbol of monarchy. Here, a guided tour offers a deeper understanding of its history, along with fascinating details about the royal household. The guide shares stories that aren’t found in typical guidebooks, adding a layer of authenticity.

Following this, you’ll visit some of London’s oldest retailers that boast Royal Warrants. These shops have been trusted suppliers to the Royal Family for generations, and tasting their products offers a luxurious glimpse into royal life. You might sample regional foods, cheeses, or other delicacies that carry the same quality standards trusted by the monarchy.

An Afternoon of Food & Drink in St. James’s

The heart of the tour takes place in St. James’s, where the group explores various venues over approximately 2.5 hours. Expect to indulge in a variety of tastings, including regional foods, cocktails, wines, and even champagne. The guide takes time to explain each delicacy, offering details about their origins and what makes them fit for royalty.

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who weave stories into the tasting experience, making it more than just a snack stop—they turn it into a cultural lesson. One reviewer noted that the guide’s “passion for London’s food culture really brought the experience alive,” which is exactly what makes this tour special.

The Finishing Touch: A Picnic & Tea at Green Park

The tour’s final segment involves a scenic walk to Green Park, where guests enjoy a curated picnic with cheese, local snacks, and a glass of champagne or tea. This relaxing conclusion allows travelers to soak in the park’s beauty while reflecting on the day’s royal and culinary adventures.

Included and Not Included

The price of $121.23 per person covers the entire 3.5-hour experience, including over 15 food and drink tastings, exclusive access, and stories from a knowledgeable guide. It does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so travelers need to plan their own transportation to and from the meeting point.

The Value of the Experience

While $121 might seem like a premium price point, it’s quite reasonable given what’s included. Guided by someone who genuinely loves London and its food, the tour offers a unique combination of royal spectacle and gourmet sampling that few other experiences provide. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the insider stories add a layer of richness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The tastings—ranging from regional foods to luxurious champagne—are curated from trusted suppliers, some of which hold royal warrants. This means you’re sampling products that are recognized for their quality and heritage. The guide’s insights, especially about the history and significance of each landmark and food item, elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing and eating.

Practical Considerations

• Timing & Duration: At 3.5 hours, the tour offers a compact yet comprehensive experience, balancing sightseeing with tasting. Be prepared for some walking, especially between stops.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 guests, which means more interaction with your guide and less crowding.
• Accessibility: While the tour involves walking and standing, the pace is generally manageable for most travelers in good health.
• Booking & Cancellation: Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make it a low-risk choice.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine London’s cultural traditions with culinary exploration. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic stories, exclusive access, and high-quality tastings. If you’re interested in the monarchy but want to see it from a more personal, foodie perspective, this tour offers a balanced mix of both.

It’s also an excellent choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a guided experience that balances education, entertainment, and indulgence.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a genuinely enjoyable way to explore London’s royal side alongside its vibrant food scene. The guided approach, with a knowledgeable local leading the way, ensures you learn and taste your way through some of the city’s most iconic spots. The intimate group size and exclusive access make it feel special, while the variety of tastings delivers real value for the price.

If you’re someone who loves history, royal traditions, and gourmet food, this experience is likely to leave you with memorable stories and delicious souvenirs. It’s a fantastic option for travelers looking for a thoughtfully curated tour that combines sightseeing, storytelling, and tasting in one seamless package.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule, prefer a more relaxed pace, or want a tour that includes transportation, you might want to consider other options. For most, though, this tour hits a sweet spot of cultural insight and culinary delight—making it a genuinely worthwhile addition to your London itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pick-up and drop-off?
No, hotel transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point outside Lillywhites, and the tour ends at Green Park.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, balancing sightseeing with tasting opportunities.

Is the Changing of the Guard ceremony guaranteed to happen?
The British Army reserves the right to change or cancel the ceremony without notice. However, the tour proceeds as planned regardless, and you’ll still get to enjoy the food and stories.

Can I see Buckingham Palace inside?
The tour includes a guided exterior visit and stories about Buckingham Palace but doesn’t include interior access.

Are there any age restrictions?
Alcohol will not be served to anyone under 18, but there’s no strict age limit for participating.

Is this a walking tour?
Yes, expect a fair amount of walking and standing, including some time on foot between stops.

What types of food and drink are offered?
Tastings include regional foods, cheeses, cocktails, wine, champagne, and regional snacks, with a total of over 15 tastings.

Is it suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
The description doesn’t specify, so it’s best to inquire directly with WalkEatLondon for specific dietary needs.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to 12 participants for a more personalized experience.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs approximately $121.23 per person, offering a good value considering the exclusive access and variety of tastings.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to experience London in a unique way, this tour provides an engaging blend of tradition and taste. It’s a chance to see royal London from a local’s perspective and indulge in some of the city’s finest flavors—all in a relaxed, friendly setting.