Best of London Tour inc Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

Taking in London’s most iconic sights in a single day sounds ambitious—and with this tour, it pretty much is. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to tick off landmarks or a seasoned visitor wanting a quick refresher, this full-day adventure covers the essentials with a few tempting extras thrown in. The blend of guided tours, historical sites, scenic river cruises, and optional upgrades makes this a flexible, value-driven way to experience London’s grandeur.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the detailed itinerary that balances sightseeing with free time—so you’re not just rushing past everything but actually getting a feel for each location. The knowledgeable guides are often highlighted as a key strength, bringing history alive with wit and insight. However, it’s worth noting that on some days, certain highlights like the Changing of the Guard or interior visits may be limited or variable, so a little flexibility is key.

This tour suits visitors who want an overview packed with history, scenic views, and a touch of luxury, all within a manageable nine-hour window. If you’re after a comprehensive introduction to London without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transport, this could be your perfect match. Just remember, it’s a fast-paced day—so comfortable footwear and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary including major landmarks, a Thames river cruise, and optional close-up experiences.
• Knowledgeable guides often praised for their history insights, humor, and engaging storytelling.
• Good value for money considering entrance fees, cruise, and optional extras like the London Eye or cream tea.
• Time management is crucial; the tour covers many sites, so expect some tight scheduling, especially on busy days.
• Flexible upgrades allow you to tailor the experience with a scenic ride or a classic British cream tea.
• Group size of up to 55 travelers ensures a lively atmosphere but can mean some waiting or crowding at popular sites.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Central London Meet & Greeting

The adventure begins at Victoria Coach Station, a familiar hub well connected to public transportation. The early start at around 7:45 am means you’re kicking off before the city fully awakens, which can be a plus for avoiding crowds. The coach is typically air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment for the long day ahead. From here, your guide—often praised for their expertise—begins weaving the story of London’s past and present, setting the tone for the day.

Exploring St. Paul’s Cathedral

The first major stop is St. Paul’s Cathedral, rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666 by Sir Christopher Wren. With a 1 hour 15-minute visit, you get to marvel at its grand dome, intricate interior, and the chance to snap some photos from outside. Entrance is included, which is a real bonus given how pricey the tickets can be if you visit independently. Reviewers have mentioned that this part is a highlight, especially if your guide shares stories about Wren’s masterpiece or points out hidden details that aren’t obvious at first glance.

Westminster Abbey & Houses of Parliament

Next, a quick photo stop outside Westminster Abbey offers a glimpse of a building that has hosted countless royal ceremonies and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. While interior visits may be limited depending on the day, the outside views alone excite many visitors.

Driving past the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben’s clock tower gives you a picture-perfect shot of London’s political heart. These stops are brief but impactful, offering that quintessential London skyline shot. Several reviews note that these moments are more about capturing the essence of London’s grandeur rather than extensive touring.

Changing of the Guard & Buckingham Palace

The Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace is one of the tour’s most anticipated moments, and for good reason. It’s a spectacle of British pageantry—soldiers in red tunics, bearskin hats, and marching bands. The schedule is subject to change based on the day, but most days it takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, with a photo stop outside the Palace when the ceremony isn’t happening.

Reviewers like Diane appreciated the opportunity to see this centuries-old tradition, though some noted that the guards are not always on horseback or in full display, especially on days when the ceremony doesn’t occur. Still, observing the precision and tradition remains a memorable experience.

The Tower of London: A Fortress of History

The Tower of London is often cited as the tour’s star attraction, and rightly so. The 2-hour visit includes exploring the Crown Jewels, meeting the Yeoman Warders (also called Beefeaters), and walking through centuries of royal history. Reviewers like John and others mention the Crown Jewels as an absolute must-see, still used for royal ceremonies, and the Yeoman Warders as engaging storytellers.

One reviewer, Dania, emphasized the importance of punctuality, noting that respecting the schedule helps keep the day running smoothly. The Tower is a hallowed space, filled with stories of intrigue, imprisonment, and royal power, making it far more than just a fortress.

Thames River Cruise: A Scenic Shortcut

Post-Tower, a private boat cruise down the Thames offers a relaxing way to see the city’s skyline from a different angle. Expect views of Tower Bridge, Shakespeare’s Globe, The Shard, and more from the water. The cruise lasts around 40 minutes, giving you a chance to unwind after a busy morning.

Reviewers mention that this part of the tour is a highlight, especially for capturing photos and enjoying the breeze on a sunny day. It’s a practical way to cover a lot of ground without more walking, although you should be prepared for some motion if you’re prone to seasickness.

Optional Upgrades: London Eye or Cream Tea

The tour ends at different locations depending on your upgrade choice. You can opt to finish with a London Eye ride, offering spectacular panoramic views of London from Europe’s tallest observation wheel. Several travelers, like Anna, found the views to be “magnificent,” making the extra cost worthwhile for a first-time visitor.

Alternatively, you can enjoy a cream tea at Harrods, complete with baked scones, clotted cream, preserves, and a glass of sparkling wine. Reviewers like Carol appreciated the quality of the tea and the chance to unwind in an iconic setting. Both options are conveniently included with transport but require you to make your way back on your own afterward.

Practical Considerations

Duration & Timing

At approximately 9 hours, this tour is quite full, so expect a fast pace, especially on busy days. Reviewers have noted that some sites, like St. Paul’s, might have limited or no interior access depending on the day or schedule, so flexibility is key. The tour starts early, with a 7:45 am departure, which helps beat some crowds but also demands an early wake-up call.

Group Size & Guide Quality

With up to 55 travelers, the group is relatively large, but guides are generally praised for their knowledge and humor. Several reviews specifically mention guides by name—Zozo, John, Peter, Frank, and Derek—and highlight their engaging storytelling, local insights, and ability to keep everyone on schedule. A few reviews, however, pointed out instances of disorganization, delays, or guides who appeared unprepared, so your experience might depend on the specific guide provided that day.

Value & Cost

Priced at about $193 per person, this tour covers entrance fees, the Thames cruise, and optional upgrades, offering good value compared to booking these separately. Entrance to major sites like the Tower of London and St. Paul’s is included, saving you both money and time. The optional extras—London Eye or cream tea—add a touch of luxury or relaxation, with the London Eye offering stunning views and the tea providing a quintessentially English experience.

What’s Not Included

• Hotel pick-up/drop-off
• Food and drinks (except optional cream tea)
• Personal expenses or souvenirs

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This comprehensive tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want to pack as much as possible into a single day, getting a broad overview of London’s key landmarks. If you love history, scenic views, and guided storytelling, you’ll likely enjoy the knowledgeable guides and iconic sites. The inclusion of a Thames cruise, plus optional upgrades like the London Eye or a luxurious tea, makes it versatile and appealing.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, in-depth explorations or have mobility issues, this might be a bit too rushed. The large group size can sometimes mean waiting around or feeling a bit overwhelmed during busy periods, so patience and good walking shoes are recommended.

Overall, for those seeking a well-organized, value-packed introduction to London with the possibility of optional splurges, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, the tour begins at Victoria Coach Station, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

Are the entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entry to the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral, which are typically costly and time-consuming to visit independently.

What are the options for ending the tour?
You can choose to finish with a ride on the London Eye (if upgraded), or enjoy a cream tea at Harrods. Both options include transport to the attraction but not back to your hotel.

Is there much walking involved?
Yes, expect to walk quite a bit, including between sites and during site visits. Some reviewers mention the need for moderate physical fitness.

What happens if the Changing of the Guard doesn’t take place?
You’ll still get a photo stop outside Buckingham Palace, so you won’t miss the iconic exterior view.

Can I customize the experience?
Upgrades like the London Eye or cream tea are available to tailor the tour to your interests, but core sites are fixed.

How long is the Thames cruise?
The cruise lasts around 40 minutes, providing a scenic and relaxing way to view London from the water.

What happens if St. Paul’s Cathedral is closed?
On Sundays or days when it’s closed, the interior tour might be skipped, but you’ll still see the exterior and have some free time outside.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, engaging way to see London’s highlights in one day. It’s best suited for travelers who want an efficient overview with the flexibility to add some luxurious or leisurely experiences. Expect some busy moments and a fast pace, but also the chance to enjoy each site with expert commentary and scenic views. Whether it’s your first visit or a quick return, this tour provides a solid foundation to appreciate the essence of London.