Buckingham Palace & Crown Jewels of London Tour

Exploring the Buckingham Palace & Crown Jewels of London Tour: An In-Depth Review

This guided tour of London packs a lot into one day, covering some of the most famous sights in the capital — Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, plus a cruise along the Thames. For those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable glimpse into London’s royal and historic heart, this experience aims to deliver.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its seamless combination of inside visits, expert commentary, and scenic river views, making the day feel both educational and relaxing. The tour’s well-thought-out structure means you get a good mix of iconic landmarks with enough time to soak in the atmosphere.

A potential consideration is the physical demand — especially at the Tower of London, where stairs inside the White Tower are unavoidable, and the walk between some stops can add up. But for anyone comfortable with walking and eager to see London’s highlights in just one day, this tour offers great value and authentic sights.

Perfect for first-time visitors, history buffs, or anyone wanting a full-day overview, this experience suits those who prefer guided insights and a busy, engaging schedule.

Key Points

Expert guides provide insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of each site.
Stunning views from the Thames cruise add a relaxed element to the busy day.
Inside access to Buckingham Palace (when open) offers a rare glimpse into royal life.
Entrance to the Crown Jewels guarantees you see some of the most priceless items in the royal collection.
Efficient transportation with WiFi and USB charging helps keep you connected and comfortable.
Flexible options like cruising on another day or finishing at different points add customization.

The Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting at Buckingham Palace’s King’s Gallery

The tour begins at the King’s Gallery, just around the façade of Buckingham Palace, where our Guest Services Assistant greets us. This is a strategic and convenient meeting point, just a short walk from Victoria Station. Arriving at 9:15 AM, you’re naturally drawn into the royal atmosphere right from the start.

Here, the tour kicks off with a visit to Buckingham Palace itself, which is truly the crown jewel of London’s royal attractions. Depending on the day, you’d have the chance to see the Palace’s stunning State Rooms—these opulent spaces are often a highlight for visitors. The entry is included in the tour, which saves you the hassle and cost of booking separately.

One reviewer noted that the experience of stepping inside the Palace was “a rare chance to see how the royals entertain and keep their grandeur” — providing a glimpse of royal life behind the scenes.

St. Paul’s Cathedral: A Masterpiece of Architecture

Next, the tour takes you to St. Paul’s Cathedral, one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. The guide offers rich context about Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, describing the grandeur of its dome and the intricate details of its interior.

It’s worth noting that St. Paul’s is closed on Sundays and special events, so if you’re on a weekend tour, you’ll only get outside photos and a longer visit to the Tower of London instead. Still, the exterior alone is breathtaking, and the guide’s commentary will help you appreciate the cathedral’s significance in the city’s skyline.

A reviewer shared that the guide’s insights made the visit memorable, especially when pointing out lesser-known facts about the building’s history and architecture.

The Tower of London and Crown Jewels

The next major stop is the Tower of London, where the guide’s expertise truly shines. We loved the way guides like “David” brought history alive, sharing tales of royal prisoners, famous executions, and the Tower’s role as a fortress and royal residence.

The Crown Jewels exhibit is an undeniable highlight, showcasing some of the most priceless royal regalia. The collection includes the famous Imperial State Crown, scepters, and orbs—each with centuries of stories behind them. Reviewers remarked that seeing the Crown Jewels “gives you a real sense of royal power and tradition,” making it a must-see.

Note that inside the Tower, there are quite a few stairs within the White Tower, and there’s no disabled access currently, so be prepared for some physical activity.

Thames River Cruise: A Relaxing Viewpoint

After exploring the Tower, the tour offers a cruise on the River Thames. This is a perfect way to unwind and see London’s skyline from a different perspective. The boat departs from Westminster Pier, and from the water, you’ll enjoy views of historic landmarks like the Millennium Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye.

A common comment from travelers is that the cruise “offered a peaceful break and a chance to take photos” after a busy morning.

Ending at Westminster Pier

The tour concludes back at Westminster Pier, a central location that makes it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation. Alternatively, you can opt to take the river cruise on a different day if preferred, offering flexibility.

Transportation and Logistics

The superior coach used in the afternoon features WiFi and USB charging, ensuring a comfortable ride with connectivity. The tour starts at approximately 9:15 AM and ends back at Westminster Pier, with the afternoon part departing from Vauxhall Bridge Road at 1:00 PM — so plan accordingly.

Guests should be aware that no hotel pick-up or drop-off is provided, so arranging your own transport to and from the meeting point is necessary. The walk from Victoria Station to Buckingham Palace takes about 10 minutes, making it accessible for most travelers.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early to ensure smooth check-in and to make the most of your day.
• Be prepared for security checks at Buckingham Palace — bags over 45cm x 20cm x 30cm are not permitted.
• Wear comfortable shoes, especially for walking and stairs inside the Tower of London.
• Consider taking the cruise on another day if you prefer a more relaxed pace or different weather conditions.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $227.64 per person, the tour offers a good balance of guided access, inside visits, and scenic hours on the Thames. It includes entry to Buckingham Palace (when open), the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Crown Jewels—each a premium experience on its own.

While it’s not a budget option, the convenience of having expert guides, transportation, and all entry fees bundled makes it a solid value for travelers who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of booking individual tickets or navigating London on their own.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day experience is perfect for first-time visitors who want an all-in-one introduction to London’s royal and historic sites. The guided approach ensures you get knowledgeable insights, making the experience more meaningful than wandering alone. It’s also ideal for those interested in royalty, history, and architecture, with the added bonus of a relaxing Thames cruise.

Travelers who appreciate structured, well-organized tours with inside access and scenic moments will find this package suits their needs. However, if you prefer a very leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, you might find some parts a bit physically demanding.

This tour delivers authentic, memorable sights with expert commentary, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a full, rich taste of London’s royal heritage in one day.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour?
  Entry to Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Crown Jewels, Thames River Cruise, and the services of guides and a guest services assistant.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It starts at the King’s Gallery near Buckingham Palace and ends back at Westminster Pier.

• Is the Buckingham Palace visit guaranteed?
  It depends on the palace’s schedule; sometimes there are no interior visits if the Palace is closed on certain days, but you still get to see the exterior.

• Can I take the river cruise on another day?
  Yes, you can choose to do the cruise another day and finish the tour at the Tower of London instead of Westminster Pier, subject to ticket validity.

• What about accessibility?
  There is no disabled access inside the Tower of London, and some stairs are involved, so it might not be suitable for everyone with mobility issues.

• How long is the overall tour?
  The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with the afternoon segment starting around 1:00 PM.

• Is food included?
  No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan meal stops separately.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the Tower’s stairs and walking between sites.

• Are there any restrictions on bags?
  Yes, bags larger than 45cm x 20cm x 30cm are not permitted through Buckingham Palace security.

• Is there a cancellation policy?
  Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

This detailed review aims to give you all the practical insights needed to decide if this tour matches your travel style. Whether you’re a history lover, a royal enthusiast, or simply want a comprehensive day exploring London’s iconic sights, this experience offers a well-rounded, memorable visit.