London: Kensington Palace Tour, Guard Change & Afternoon Tea

If you’re looking for an experience that combines the best of British royal tradition with a touch of leisure, this Kensington Palace Tour with Guard Change & Afternoon Tea offers a well-rounded glimpse into London’s regal side. For about 5.5 hours, you’ll skip the long lines, enjoy some of the most iconic sights, and indulge in a classic English treat.

What we love about this experience is how smoothly it manages to balance sightseeing, history, and relaxation. The pre-reserved tickets mean you won’t waste precious time in queues, which can be a lifesaver during busy seasons. Plus, the charming setting of Kensington Palace’s Orangery makes the afternoon tea feel special without the fuss of booking separately.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour involves walking and standing, which may not be suitable for everyone—especially those with mobility challenges or strollers. It’s also weather-dependent for the Guard Change, so rain could affect your viewing spot. Still, this tour is best suited for first-time visitors and royal enthusiasts eager to combine sightseeing, tradition, and a touch of elegance.

Key Points

• Prime Viewing of the Guard Change: Enjoy a carefully selected vantage point, avoiding the typical jostling crowds.
• Beautiful London Parks: Walk through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, seeing landmarks like the Diana Memorial Fountain and Albert Memorial.
• Historic Kensington Palace: Explore the palace at your own pace with an included audio guide, bringing history to life.
• Delicious Afternoon Tea: Savor traditional scones, sandwiches, and more in the Orangery, a grand and elegant setting.
• All Logistics Handled: From tickets to transportation, the tour includes everything to make your day stress-free.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or strollers, as it involves walking and some security checks.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting with the Guard Change

The tour kicks off with a front-row view of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. But here’s the trick: instead of fighting the crowds outside the palace gates, your guide will take you to a better vantage point from which you’ll see the full spectacle—the arrival of the New Guard accompanied by a marching band. As one reviewer noted, “Der Guide Danny war super, alles hat gut geklappt,” highlighting how knowledgeable and organized the guides are, making what could be a chaotic scene into an enjoyable experience.

Keep in mind, the Guard Change can sometimes be canceled last-minute, especially in bad weather, so the guide will adapt with an alternative plan if needed. This flexibility ensures you still get a rewarding experience, even if the main event is postponed.

A Stroll through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

After the Guard Change, the focus shifts to the parks—two of London’s most famous green spaces. Hyde Park’s open landscapes and the serene lakes provide a perfect backdrop for an easy walk, while Kensington Gardens adds a touch of royal history. Here, you’ll pass landmarks like the Diana Memorial Fountain, a popular spot for photos, and the Albert Memorial, a grand tribute to Queen Victoria’s husband.

The guides, like Sue, are praised for sharing “lots of interesting information,” making the walk both educational and engaging. These parks are not just pretty scenery; they are woven into London’s royal narrative and offer glimpses into the lives of the monarchy over the years.

Kensington Palace: Self-Guided Exploration & Audio Guides

The highlight for many is visiting Kensington Palace itself. Your ticket is pre-reserved, which means no waiting in line, and you’ll have an audio guide to help you imagine what life was like for Queen Victoria and other royals who called the palace home. The self-guided aspect gives you flexibility—you can linger or move on quickly, depending on your interest level.

A reviewer mentioned, “We finished off with a visit to Kensington Place museum,” indicating how the self-guided tour adds depth to your understanding. The audio guide is particularly helpful for visualizing the opulence and daily life behind the palace walls.

Afternoon Tea at the Orangery

No British royal experience is complete without afternoon tea, and the Kensington Palace Orangery offers a charming setting for this tradition. You’ll be served a selection of scones, sandwiches, and sweet treats, all in a beautifully decorated space reminiscent of a baroque palace. The reviews describe the tea as “delicious,” though some found it “average,” which suggests it’s a pleasant experience, but perhaps not a once-in-a-lifetime culinary event.

This segment serves as a relaxing break, allowing you to savor the moment and reflect on what you’ve seen so far. It’s also a social highlight, especially if you’re sharing the table with fellow travelers.

Practical Details & Logistics

The tour is operated by Walks – UK and includes reserved tickets, an English-speaking guide, and an audio guide at Kensington Palace. The meeting point is conveniently located at the Guards Memorial on Horse Guards Rd., with the guide holding a green Walks sign.

The tour duration of 5.5 hours is well-paced, allowing plenty of time for each activity without feeling rushed. Keep in mind, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to and from the meeting point.

While the tour is in English, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, wheelchairs, or strollers, due to the walking involved and security procedures at the palace.

The Guard Change can sometimes be canceled at very short notice—it’s wise to check the weather forecast or confirm on the day. If canceled, the tour will proceed with an alternative itinerary, ensuring you still get a meaningful experience.

The Real Value of This Tour

At $146.82 per person, this experience offers a lot for those interested in British royal life, history, and tradition. The combination of seeing the Guard Change from a prime spot, walking through iconic parks, and exploring Kensington Palace makes it a comprehensive package.

The inclusion of pre-reserved tickets saves time, and the afternoon tea adds an element of elegance that elevates the entire experience. The self-guided component at Kensington Palace means you can personalize your visit, spending as much or as little time as you like within the historic walls.

Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides who shared interesting stories, enhancing the experience, while the stunning views along the route make it memorable. Although the tea might be considered average by some, the overall value is strong—especially for those who want a structured yet flexible way to enjoy London’s royal sights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a well-organized, enriching overview of London’s royal landmarks without the stress of planning each detail themselves. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors, royal history buffs, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with a touch of British tradition.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed, less walking-intensive experience, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, if weather is poor, especially for the Guard Change, be prepared for potential schedule adjustments.

The Sum Up

This Kensington Palace tour offers a balanced mix of royal history, iconic sights, and delightful tradition. The priority access tickets and knowledgeable guides make for a smooth, informative day, while the afternoon tea adds a lovely touch of elegance.

It’s a great choice for those wanting an immersive experience that captures the essence of British monarchy and charm. The walk through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens is an added bonus, giving you a chance to enjoy London’s green spaces while learning about its royal connections.

While not the absolute cheapest option, the value lies in the convenience and the quality of the experience—especially if you appreciate guided insights and a flexible self-guided tour.

If you’re eager to see a mix of history, tradition, and scenery, and don’t mind a bit of walking, this tour will serve you well. It’s a memorable way to spend a London day, steeped in regal elegance and local flavor.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point at Guards Memorial on Horse Guards Rd.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the tour involves walking and standing. Bring an umbrella or raincoat if the weather forecast predicts rain, especially for the Guard Change.

Can I join if I have mobility challenges or am in a wheelchair?
This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves walking and security checks at Kensington Palace.

How long is the walking portion?
Expect to walk at least 3 miles during the parks and palace visits. The pace is leisurely but involves standing and moving between sites.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket to Kensington Palace with an audio guide, the afternoon tea at the Orangery, and a local English-speaking guide are included.

What happens if the Guard Change is canceled?
In case of cancellation, the guide will follow an alternative itinerary, ensuring you still experience key sights and stories.

Is the tour suitable for children or strollers?
No, strollers are not allowed, and the tour may be challenging for young children or those with limited mobility.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving now allows you to pay later, offering flexibility to your travel plans.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, the Guard Change is weather-dependent. Warmer months or dry weather days are ideal for the full experience.