London: Buckingham Palace and Royal London Walking Tour

London: Buckingham Palace and Royal London Walking Tour

Exploring London through the lens of its royal heritage can be a fascinating way to see the city. This guided walking tour offers a detailed look at key royal sites, culminating in entry to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms and Gardens. With an engaging guide, you’ll learn about the monarchy’s history, traditions, and even some quirky facts along the way.

One of the best aspects of this experience is the expert guidance that brings the city’s royal stories to life. Our review highlights the rich content delivered by knowledgeable guides, making it more than just a basic sightseeing trip. However, a possible drawback is that the tour is somewhat condensed, so if you’re looking for an in-depth historical exploration, you might find it a bit brief.

This tour suits travelers who love history, royal traditions, or are simply curious about London’s monarchy. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of walking, storytelling, and a chance to step inside Buckingham Palace without the fuss of a large, crowded tour. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a royal enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Comprehensive royal overview: Learn about King Charles III, Queen Elizabeth II, and other royal figures from an expert guide.
• In-depth site visits: See St James’s Palace, Horseguards, and iconic areas associated with the royal family.
• Buckingham Palace access: End with entry to the State Rooms and Gardens, with a multimedia guide enhancing your experience.
• Authentic stories and facts: Discover odd and unusual royal facts, like where the Queen Mother bought her cigarettes.
• Great value: For around $60, you get a guided tour, a multimedia palace guide, and access to exclusive palace areas.
• Limited to specific days: Operations are Thursday to Monday, from July to September, so plan accordingly.

Exploring the Royal London Walking Tour

The Starting Point at The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace

We loved the feeling of starting right at the heart of royal London — outside Buckingham Palace, specifically at The King’s Gallery. It’s an ideal spot for photos and sets the tone for the day ahead. The tour begins here, and your guide will gather the group, usually with a friendly, approachable tone that makes everyone feel comfortable.

A Leisurely 2-Hour Walk Through London’s Royal Sites

The guided walk lasts about two hours, giving ample time to soak in the sights and stories. The guide, often an expert on royal history, shares fascinating anecdotes that make the city’s royal landmarks come alive. They’re usually very knowledgeable, with reviews mentioning guides like “John” or “Claire” who explain everything with clarity and enthusiasm.

Sites visited during the walk include St James’s Palace, the residence of the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, and Horseguards, where you can watch the ceremonial Changing of the Guard if timing aligns. You might find the guides sharing quirky facts, such as “the Queen Mother once bought her cigarettes here,” which adds a layer of personal detail to the experience.

You’ll pass by Jermyn Street, famous for Royal Warrant holders, giving you a glimpse into London’s luxurious shopping scene that caters to the royal family. The guide might also point out the Royal Warrant signs, which signifies the high-end suppliers trusted by the monarchy.

Passing Iconic Sites and Learning Royal Traditions

The walk covers notable churches, clubs, and historic landmarks, all tied to the royal legacy. Reviewers comment positively about the lively narration and the variety of topics covered — from the history of cream teas at Fortnum & Mason to lesser-known insights about royal grooming routines.

If timing is right, there’s a chance to see the Changing of the Guard, a colorful ceremony that’s a must-see for first-time visitors. The guide explains the significance and history behind this tradition, making it more meaningful than just a photo opportunity.

The Final Stop: Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms and Gardens

At around midday, the tour concludes at Buckingham Palace, where you’ll be guided inside for the State Rooms. The entry is reserved, and with a multimedia guide, you’ll explore 19 exquisitely furnished rooms filled with paintings by Rubens, Canaletto, and Rembrandt. It’s a chance to see the royal collection up close, including the grand Ballroom and Throne Room.

Visitors have praised the audio guides for their informative commentary, which enhances the experience beyond just gazing at opulent furniture. Keep in mind, photography inside the State Rooms is prohibited, though you can take photos outdoors or in the palace gardens.

The Gardens and Hidden Gems

After exploring the stately interior, you’ll wander through the palace gardens, a surprisingly tranquil oasis amid London’s bustle. With over 30 bird species and 350 wildflowers, it’s a peaceful end to the royal tour, offering excellent views of the famous lake.

Practical Details and Tips

The entire experience lasts around five hours, including travel, walking, and palace visit. Starting times vary, so checking availability is essential. The tour runs Thursday through Monday from July to September, making it a summer highlight if visiting during these months.

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, as the walk involves some standing and strolling through outdoor areas. The tour size tends to be manageable, often with a small group, which promotes better interaction with the guide.

Value and Overall Experience

For $59, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the entry to Buckingham Palace and the multimedia guide included. It’s a balanced mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and exclusive access, making it ideal for those who want an authentic, informative experience without the crowds or high costs of private tours.

Reviewers consistently mention the guides’ expertise and engaging style, which makes history feel lively and accessible. Some noted that the tour could be a bit rushed given the packed itinerary, so those wanting a deeper dive into royal history might want to supplement this experience with additional visits or reading.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy history, royal traditions, and architecture. It appeals most to first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded overview of royal London, especially those who appreciate guided storytelling. It’s equally suitable for those interested in inside access to Buckingham Palace but are looking for a more affordable, less overwhelming option.

If you prefer a flexible, relaxed pace or want more time for photography and personal exploration, you might find the schedule a little tight. However, for most, this tour strikes a good balance between comprehensive sightseeing and manageable activity levels.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it’s best suited for children over 5 years old, given the walking distance and the nature of the sites.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential. Bringing a water bottle and a camera (for outdoor photos) is also recommended, though photography inside the palace isn’t allowed.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, this is a walking tour. The meeting point is directly outside Buckingham Palace, and the tour ends at Westminster Abbey.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. You can also reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

Are there any restrictions inside Buckingham Palace?
Yes, photography inside the State Rooms is not permitted. Food and drinks are also not allowed inside, except bottled water, and large bags must be stored elsewhere.

Is the guide provided in English only?
Yes, the live tour guide and audio guides are in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

The London: Buckingham Palace and Royal London Walking Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore the city’s royal side. It combines walking, storytelling, and exclusive palace access into a five-hour experience that balances education with entertainment. The knowledgeable guides and inclusion of the State Rooms make it a worthwhile option for anyone curious about the royal family or wanting a guided overview of London’s most iconic sites.

While it might feel somewhat hurried to those seeking an in-depth historical exploration, it remains an excellent value, especially for first-timers or royal buffs. The combination of outdoor sightseeing and inside palace access delivers a memorable snapshot of royal London that’s both fun and informative.

If you’re looking for a manageable, insightful tour with authentic stories and beautiful surroundings, this experience is likely to please. Just remember to check the availability, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a day filled with royal stories, stunning views, and a taste of British tradition.