Royal London Walking Tour with High Tea at Kensington Palace

Planning a trip to London and craving a glimpse into its royal past? This Royal London Walking Tour, combined with a delicious high tea at Kensington Palace, offers an elegant way to soak in the city’s regal atmosphere. With a focus on three historic palaces and key royal landmarks, this experience is perfect for those who love history, architecture, and a touch of luxury.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small group size—sometimes private—allowing for personalized insights and a relaxed pace. Plus, ending with a traditional high tea, served on Princess Diana’s royal china, elevates the experience from simply sightseeing to a memorable cultural treat.

However, be aware that this is a walking tour with no included palace entrances, so expect to spend time on your feet. It’s ideal for visitors who enjoy guided walks and are curious about royal stories but don’t mind a bit of physical activity. If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging, and authentic royal experience in London, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Small group or private options provide a more intimate experience.
• Includes a luxurious high tea at Kensington Palace, with options for Sparkling Wine.
• Visit three historic palaces and several iconic royal landmarks.
• Learn insider stories from knowledgeable guides, often praised for their friendliness and expertise.
• No palace entry tickets included, so plan for additional costs if you wish to explore interiors.
• Ideal for history buffs and royal enthusiasts who want a balanced mix of walking, storytelling, and indulgence.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

First Impressions and Booking

This tour is highly popular, often booked 49 days in advance, reflecting its appeal. The price of approximately $164.25 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering it combines a guided walk, sightseeing, and a high-quality afternoon tea, many find the value quite reasonable. Input from travelers consistently highlights the knowledgeable guides, notably Simon, who makes the history come alive with wit and passion.

Meeting Point and Duration

The tour begins near Green Park Underground Station, making it easy to access via public transport. It lasts about 2 hours, which is enough time to cover key royal sites without feeling rushed. The tour ends conveniently at Kensington Palace’s Orangery, where the high tea takes place—an elegant setting with Princess Diana’s china adding a special touch.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Why It Matters

Spencer House and St. James’s Palace

Your journey kicks off with Spencer House, London’s finest surviving eighteenth-century townhouse. Built for the Earl Spencer, ancestor of Diana, it offers a glimpse into aristocratic life centuries ago. As it’s not open to the public, viewing from the outside gives a sense of historical grandeur.

Next, you’ll stroll past St. James’s Palace, the official residence of the monarch and the birthplace of Queen Victoria. While the palace itself isn’t generally open to visitors, its significance as a royal seat remains unmatched. You’ll see the statue of Queen Victoria near the palace, built to celebrate her Golden Jubilee, with insightful stories about her early life at Kensington Palace.

The Mall and Buckingham Palace

A short walk takes you along The Mall, London’s ceremonial avenue with a commanding view of Buckingham Palace. Depending on the day, you might catch the famous Changing of the Guard—a highly popular display of British pageantry. The tour offers an exterior view only, but guides share tales about the palace’s history dating back to medieval times, including its evolution from a manor to the Queen’s residence.

Royal Residences and Landmarks

From Buckingham, you’ll explore St. James’s Palace, built in the late 17th century and the original royal residence in London after Whitehall Palace burned down. You get a sense of royal continuity and tradition here, even if you’re not inside.

Further along, the tour takes you past the Duke of Clarence’s former residence (built between 1825-1827), a private home commissioned by the future King William IV. This spot offers a taste of royal living outside the grand palaces, with background stories about its distinguished residents.

The journey continues past Wellington Arch, a striking monument crowned with a quadriga chariot and symbolizing Britain’s military history. Close by, you’ll find the Albert Memorial, a bronze statue dedicated to Queen Victoria’s beloved husband, showcasing Victorian craftsmanship and symbolism.

War Memorials and Cultural Icons

The Bomber Command Memorial honors RAF crews from WWII, and its presence reminds visitors of Britain’s wartime sacrifices. It’s a poignant moment amidst the regal sights, adding emotional depth to your walk.

The Royal Albert Hall, an iconic London concert venue, is nearby. You’ll learn about its royal patronage and history, and perhaps imagine the countless performances and royal events held there.

Kensington Palace and the Final Stop

Your tour concludes at Kensington Palace, Victoria’s birthplace and residence. The guide shares stories about her life there, including the creation of her famous statue, sculpted by Princess Louise, which remains a highlight. The Orangery, where you’ll enjoy the high tea, is a lovely, historic setting with a regal atmosphere, especially served on Princess Diana’s china.

The High Tea Experience

The high tea at Kensington Palace’s Orangery is a delightful way to cap off the tour. You’ll indulge in sandwiches, scones, cakes, and pastries, with the option of adding sparkling wine. Many reviews praise the quality of the food and presentation, describing it as a luxurious yet cozy experience. One guest noted how the tea set was beautiful and the scones were delicious, making the entire afternoon feel special.

Guests also appreciate that the high tea is prepared fresh daily, and the setting offers a perfect backdrop for relaxing after the walking portion of the tour. The serving on Princess Diana’s royal china elevates the cultural value, making it more than just a meal—it’s a royal treat.

What We Loved and What to Consider

The guides are undeniably the star of this experience. Travelers rave about Simon’s enthusiasm, wit, and deep knowledge—he makes the history engaging rather than dry. Several reviews mention that Simon’s storytelling goes beyond the basics, sharing fun anecdotes and lesser-known facts, such as Princess Louise’s secretive sculpting work or the details behind the Albert Memorial.

The walking pace is manageable for most, but be prepared for some longer stretches on foot. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially since no transport is included between sites. The no entrance fees to palaces might be a downside if you’re eager to explore interiors, but the guide’s stories compensate with plenty of exterior insights.

The value for money depends on how much you enjoy guided walks and storytelling, as well as the high tea experience. Many reviewers feel that the combination of history, scenery, and indulgence justifies the price.

Potential drawbacks include the fact that the tour doesn’t include inside palace visits, which might disappoint those expecting to tour royal interiors. Also, since the tour ends at the Orangery, you’ll need to plan your own additional sightseeing or transportation afterward.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, royal enthusiasts, and culture seekers who appreciate a leisurely walk through iconic London sites. It’s also ideal for those who want a combination of sightseeing and a classy afternoon tea—a true British tradition. If you enjoy guided storytelling with a personable guide and don’t mind walking, you’ll find this tour well worth it.

Travelers with an interest in royal architecture, British monarchy, or Victorian history will particularly enjoy the stories shared along the route. The small group setting makes it feel intimate, allowing for questions and personalized insights.

The Sum Up

This Royal London Walking Tour with High Tea at Kensington Palace offers a delightful blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and indulgence. It’s a fantastic way to get a broad overview of London’s royal landmarks, wrapped up with a luxurious tea experience on the grounds of Kensington Palace. The knowledgeable guides, especially Simon, make the experience lively and memorable, sharing stories that bring history to life.

While the tour doesn’t include interior palace visits, the exterior views and stories make it engaging and well worth the price for those seeking an authentic, elegant, and educational experience. The high tea adds a special touch, making it perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a regal afternoon.

This tour will suit travelers who enjoy walking, learning about royalty, and savoring traditional British hospitality. It’s best for those who want a balanced mix of culture, history, and a luxurious break in their London itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind that it involves some walking. It’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet and interested in history.

Does the tour include tickets to the palaces?
No, the tour does not include admission to the interiors of the palaces. It focuses on exterior views and stories shared by guides.

What’s included in the high tea?
The high tea features sandwiches, scones, cakes, and pastries. You can also opt for sparkling wine if you select that upgrade.

How long does the tour last?
The walking portion is approximately 2 hours, ending at Kensington Palace’s Orangery, where the high tea is served.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Refunds are processed if you cancel within this window.

Is transportation provided between sites?
No, the tour is a walking experience, so plan your footwear and pace accordingly.

What is the group size?
Most groups are small, typically 4-6 guests, with a maximum of 10, making for a more personal experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins near Green Park Underground and ends at Kensington Palace’s Orangery.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Yes, gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available upon prior request.

In short, this tour combines the best of London’s royal sights with a touch of British elegance—perfect for those who want to learn, see, and indulge all in one delightful afternoon.