Priority Access Tour of Westminster Abbey with London Eye option

Visiting Westminster Abbey is often a highlight for travelers exploring London, and opting for a priority access tour can significantly enhance the experience. This tour, offered by Premium Tours, provides a streamlined way to beat the crowds, explore the abbey’s iconic sites, and learn about its royal and historical significance. An added perk is the chance to indulge in complimentary coffee and pastries in the medieval vaults, and for those wanting a panoramic view of London, an optional upgrade includes a fast-track ride on the London Eye.

What we love about this experience is how it balances efficient access with in-depth commentary, making it suitable for travelers who want to maximize their time and knowledge without feeling rushed. On the flip side, some may find the group size limited to 20 travelers and the walk and standing on stone floors a bit tiring, especially if mobility is an issue. This tour is best suited for history buffs, royal enthusiasts, or anyone keen to skip long lines and appreciate Westminster Abbey’s splendor with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Skip the queues: Priority access allows you to bypass long lines, saving valuable time.
• A thoughtful start: Refreshments in the Cellarium set a relaxed tone before the tour.
• Rich narratives: Guides share stories about recent royal events, including Charles III’s coronation.
• Photo opportunities: Ample time during the tour for capturing memorable shots.
• Optional London Eye: Upgrade to enjoy stunning panoramic views from one of the world’s highest observation wheels.
• Group size matters: The tour keeps groups small (max 20), ensuring a more personal experience.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Westminster Abbey Shop
The tour kicks off at the Abbey’s shop at 20 Dean’s Yard, a convenient location just steps from the main entrance. The check-in process is straightforward, and being able to meet in front of the Abbey streamlines the start. You’ll appreciate the priority access, which means avoiding the long queues that often form at Westminster—especially during peak tourist season or busy weekends.

Stop 1: Westminster Abbey Tour
This is where the magic begins. You’ll step inside what is considered one of London’s most architecturally stunning landmarks. The guide will illuminate the building’s significance, including the shrine of St Edward the Confessor, and the various tombs and memorials of British royalty and notable figures. The recent coronation of Charles III on May 6, 2023, and the wedding of William and Kate are hot topics here, making it especially relevant for visitors interested in current royal affairs. The guide also pays respects to Queen Elizabeth II, whose state funeral was held here, adding a poignant touch to the visit.

The Guide’s Role
From the reviews, guides like Frank and Anna Maria are praised for their knowledge and personable style. One reviewer highlighted how their storytelling brought the place to life, combining facts with wit and humor, creating an engaging experience. However, some visitors mention hearing issues, emphasizing the importance of clear audio or microphone systems, especially in such a noisy environment.

Stop 2: The Cellarium Café & Terrace
Next, guests can relax with complimentary coffee and pastries in the 14th-century Cellarium, originally a storage area used by Benedictine monks. Here, the atmosphere feels like stepping back in time, and the setting is surprisingly intimate and historic. Reviewers mention the pastries as a lovely touch, though some note the pastries can be a little stale, and gluten-free or vegan options are limited, but plant-based milk is available.

Stop 3: London Eye (Optional)
If you choose the London Eye upgrade, you’ll enjoy a short walk passing landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben before boarding the world’s highest observation wheel. Standing at 135 meters, the Eye offers magnificent views of London’s skyline, ranging from historic sites to modern skyscrapers. The fast-track ticket means you skip the usual queues, which can be hours long during peak times.

Note: The tour concludes here if you select the upgrade. If not, you’re free to explore London’s sights further or head back into the city.

Practical Details and What They Mean for You

Timing & Duration
The combined experience lasts roughly 2 to 2.5 hours, with about 1 hour 15 minutes in Westminster and a 30-minute optional London Eye. The refreshments are served beforehand, providing a relaxed start before the guided tour. This pacing allows for a comprehensive yet manageable visit, especially given the walking and standing involved.

Group Size & Atmosphere
Keeping groups to 20 travelers max ensures a more intimate experience, allowing guides to tailor their stories and answer questions more easily. Yet, some reviews note that noise and crowding can pose challenges—so be prepared to listen carefully and possibly use earphones if available.

Cost & Value
At $110.42 per person, including priority access, a guided tour, and a cafe break, many find this offers good value, especially considering the time saved and the quality of insights shared. The London Eye upgrade comes at an additional cost but adds a memorable highlight with panoramic city views.

Accessibility & Physical Considerations
The tour is suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Walking on stone floors and standing for periods can be tiring. Reviewers mention that some found it challenging, especially those with back issues, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest shared that the guide, John, was “knowledgeable and personable,” making the experience enjoyable. Another reviewer highlighted how Frank’s storytelling made the history come alive—despite some hearing difficulties noted by others, which underscores the importance of good audio equipment in such environments.

A common theme was how the skip-the-line access was a real time saver, especially during busy periods. The refreshments received mixed reviews—while appreciated as a nice perk, some found the pastries a bit stale, so bringing snacks might be a good idea if you’re hungrier.

Many reviewers appreciated the photo opportunities during the tour, with some capturing stunning shots of Poets’ Corner and the Abbey’s intricate stained glass windows. The panoramic views from the London Eye are repeatedly described as “breathtaking,” making the upgrade well worth considering.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This experience provides a well-rounded glimpse into Westminster Abbey’s significance, blending historical storytelling with efficient logistics. The inclusion of a refreshing break in the Cellarium adds a special touch, giving a sense of the abbey’s long-standing history. The optional London Eye ride transforms a sightseeing tour into a memorable photo journey over London.

For those who value skip-the-line access and expert guidance, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly well-suited for history enthusiasts, royal fans, or travelers with limited time who want to see key highlights without the hassle of long queues.

The Sum Up

If you’re visiting London and eager to explore Westminster Abbey with less stress and more insight, this tour hits the right notes. The priority access means you spend more time marveling at the architecture and treasures rather than waiting in line. The small group size ensures a more personal and engaging experience, while the informative guides bring stories and context that elevate the visit.

The included refreshments add a touch of historical charm, and the London Eye upgrade offers a spectacular way to cap your day with breathtaking city views. It strikes a good balance between value, comfort, and depth of experience, making it a solid choice for most visitors.

This tour is ideal for anyone who wants to maximize their time in Westminster, explore some of London’s most iconic sights, and enjoy a smooth, well-organized day out. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londonophile, the blend of history, convenience, and panoramic views makes this a memorable adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking and standing on stone floors, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. Some reviewers found it tiring, so those with mobility concerns should consider this.

How long does the entire experience last?
Expect approximately 1 hour 15 minutes in Westminster Abbey, plus around 30 minutes for the optional London Eye ride if you choose to upgrade.

Are refreshments included?
Yes, the tour includes complimentary coffee and pastries served in the Cellarium before the tour begins. Note that gluten-free and vegan options are limited, but plant-based milk is available.

Can I cancel this tour freely?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Full refunds are available if canceled in time.

What’s the benefit of the priority access?
It allows you to bypass long queues, especially during busy seasons, giving you more time inside the abbey for exploration and photos.

Is the London Eye ride part of the tour?
No, the London Eye is an optional upgrade. If selected, it includes a fast-track ticket to save time during your ride.

What’s the group size?
The tour keeps groups small, capped at 20 travelers, for a more personal experience.

Is the guide’s narration clear?
Most reviews praise guides like Frank and Anna Maria for their knowledge and storytelling, but some mention issues hearing the guide, so earphones or microphones are advisable if available.

This tour offers a competent mix of history, convenience, and views—perfect for travelers who want a guided, enjoyable, and efficient visit to Westminster Abbey with a little extra flair.