Royal London Tour incl Buckingham Palace & Changing of Guard

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with royal pomp, historic sights, and iconic London landmarks, the Royal London Tour promises an action-packed experience. Offered by Golden Tours – Gray Line London, this eight-hour adventure combines a panoramic coach tour, insider visits to Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the chance to witness the famous Changing of the Guard (when available). It’s designed for those eager to get a taste of royal life and London’s grandeur without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we like most about this tour is how it balances guided commentary, iconic sights, and free time for photos. The insider tips from guides — such as the best spots to see the Guard Change — add real value, especially for first-time visitors. That said, a potential downside is the reliance on scheduled times and weather conditions, which can sometimes affect the experience, particularly the Guard Change. This tour really suits travelers who prefer structured sightseeing with expert guidance, especially those with limited time and a keen interest in the monarchy and London’s most recognizable landmarks.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines iconic sights, including Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and a panoramic city tour.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insider tips, especially on the best viewing spots.
• Flexible Viewing: Stops for photos and viewing are timed to maximize opportunities, though weather can influence the experience.
• Value for Money: At $140.09, it offers a good mix of transportation, entry fees, and guided commentary, especially for those wanting a hassle-free day.
• Limited Inside Access: Entry to Buckingham Palace is included, but note that the Palace’s interior is only open when the Queen is away, and the Changing of the Guard doesn’t happen daily.
• Suitability: Perfect for history buffs, royal enthusiasts, and travelers with limited time wanting a well-organized overview.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early, with check-in at 7:30 am at Victoria’s Buckingham Palace Road. You’ll board a modern, clean coach—an essential feature ensuring comfort during the approximately 8-hour journey. The first highlight is the panoramic tour of London, giving you sweeping views of the city’s most famous landmarks from the coach. This setup is ideal for grabbing some quick photos and listening to engaging commentary from your guide, who we found to be experienced and charming, according to reviews.

Next, you’ll head over to St. Paul’s Cathedral, one of London’s most recognizable architectural marvels. While inside, you’ll marvel at Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, with its soaring dome and intricate interior. Keep in mind that, on Sundays, the interior isn’t accessible due to church services — a detail that caught some visitors unprepared but was clearly communicated beforehand.

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is perhaps the most anticipated part of the day. The ceremony typically features a parade of soldiers in red tunics and bearskins, with precise marching and pomp. However, it doesn’t happen every day, and weather or operational considerations can alter the schedule. The tour’s guide provides helpful tips on where to stand to get the best view, which many reviewers appreciated, especially when crowds are thick. On days when the Guard Change isn’t occurring, the group visits Horseguards Parade instead, which still offers a sight of royal guards and ceremonial pomp.

The interior of Buckingham Palace is open only when the Queen is away in Scotland, which limits access but doesn’t diminish the overall experience. Inside, the 19 State Rooms are decorated with exquisite furniture and art treasures, including works by Rubens and Rembrandt. Reviewers noted that this was a “beautiful palace” with “amazing art,” making the visit worth the effort even if only from the outside.

The Significance of Each Stop

Panoramic London Tour: This gives you a broad overview of the city’s layout and key sites, perfect for first-timers. It also sets the stage for your day, contextualizing the sights you’ll visit more closely later.

St. Paul’s Cathedral: More than just a church, it’s a symbol of London’s resilience and power, having survived the Blitz. Its interior is breathtaking, though access is limited on Sundays. Still, the exterior and the views from the dome are worth the visit.

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard: The Palace itself is a symbol of monarchy, and standing outside watching the Guard march is a quintessential London experience. The commentary from guides about the best vantage points and timing makes this part more manageable, especially during busy seasons.

The Garden: The palace gardens are described as a “walled oasis,” home to over 30 bird species and 350 wildflowers. Walking along the south side, you’ll get views of the lake and the palace’s west front, providing a peaceful contrast to the bustling city.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers, including one who said, “Great experience seeing Buckingham Palace,” appreciated the tour’s organization and the insider tips. Afsana mentioned that the guide helped her find the best spot for viewing the Guard march, which enhanced the overall experience. Another reviewer, Susan, expressed delight at the opportunity to see both the outside and inside of the Palace, emphasizing that the tour made her royal “dream come true.”

Several comments pointed out the professionalism of the guides, with one describing the guide as “experienced and charming.” There was some disappointment about not always seeing the Guard Change in action, but the alternative visits and advice on timing helped mitigate this.

Practical Aspects and Value

The tour’s price of $140.09 covers a lot. It includes transportation in a modern coach, guided commentary, and entry to both St. Paul’s and Buckingham Palace. Considering the costs of individual tickets and taxis, this all-in-one package offers good value for those wanting a hassle-free, organized experience.

Timing matters: The check-in at 7:30 am means an early start but allows you to make the most of your day. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, so plan your day accordingly, especially if you want to explore more around Victoria.

Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs. Plus, the option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility, allowing you to secure your spot without upfront commitment.

Limitations: Photography inside St. Paul’s is not permitted, so be prepared for that if you love snapping interior shots. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so make sure your accommodations are conveniently located near the meeting point.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is especially suited for those interested in royal history and iconic London sights but who prefer a guided, structured experience. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting an overview without worrying about logistics. If you’re short on time, the itinerary packs in a lot, making it ideal for a one-day exploration.

Travelers who enjoy guided commentary and insider tips will appreciate the knowledgeable guides, particularly their advice on how to best view the Guard Change and take photos. Those looking for a more immersive inside palace experience should keep in mind that access is limited to certain days, but the exterior views and interior courtyards still make for a memorable visit.

Final Thoughts

The Royal London Tour offers a solid, if somewhat condensed, glimpse of London’s royal symbols and architectural marvels. It balances sightseeing, commentary, and photo opportunities well, especially when guided by an experienced guide who supplies useful tips. While weather and schedule limitations mean you might not see every ceremony in full swing, the tour’s structure and inclusions make it a worthwhile option for travelers eager to tick off key sights with minimal stress.

If you’re interested in the British monarchy, iconic buildings, and want a clean, organized day with plenty of facts and photos, this tour covers all those bases. It’s best suited for those who value guided insights and don’t mind the crowds or the limited access to interiors. The value is good for the price, especially when considering the convenience of transportation and entry fees all bundled into one.

FAQ

Is there hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, the tour begins and ends at the designated meeting point at Victoria. You’ll need to arrange your transportation to and from this location.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting with check-in at 7:30 am and returning to the meeting point at the end of the day.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard every day?
No, the Guard Change doesn’t happen daily and is subject to weather conditions and operational schedules. Your guide will advise on the best viewing spots and times.

Is inside Buckingham Palace accessible?
Yes, but only when the Queen is away in Scotland, which is when the Palace is open for tours. Access is limited to the State Rooms, and not all parts of the Palace are open.

Are photography restrictions in place?
Yes, interior photography at St. Paul’s Cathedral is not allowed, but outside photos at Buckingham Palace and during the Guard Parade are permitted.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring your e-ticket, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera (apart from inside St. Paul’s).

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the panoramic coach tour, entry to St. Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace, a professional guide on the coach, and a snack pack. Food and beverages are not included.

To sum it up, the Royal London Tour is a well-organized, value-packed way to see London’s royal sights with the benefit of expert guidance. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, royal fans, or anyone wanting a structured, informative day without the hassle of planning. While it has some limitations, especially regarding the timing of the Guard Change, the combination of sights, insider tips, and convenience makes it a worthwhile choice for many travelers.