London: The Crown British Royalty Walking Tour

Thinking about exploring London’s royal sights without breaking the bank? This 3-hour walking tour promises a close-up look at some of the most iconic landmarks tied to British Royalty, all while walking through the storied streets of Westminster. It’s a great way to see a mix of historic sites and filming locations from the hit series The Crown, especially if you’re a fan of the show or just curious about the Royal Family’s history.

What really caught our eye is the small group size, which makes the experience feel more personal and relaxed—and the guide’s local knowledge is often praised for making the history come alive. Plus, it covers a solid range of highlights, from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament, and even offers the chance to see the famous Changing of the Guard if you book the right start time. The price is quite approachable too, especially considering how much you see in just three hours.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is mostly walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t include extras like hotel pick-up or food, so plan accordingly. This tour seems best suited for those wanting a straightforward but enriching overview of London’s royal and political heart, without the fuss of more comprehensive, longer tours.

Key Points

• Affordable price: at around $33.67, it offers good value for a well-rounded sightseeing experience.
• In-depth sites: covers major landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Downing Street, and Westminster Abbey.
• Expert guides: generally well-rated for their local knowledge and engaging style.
• Flexible scheduling: with options to see the Changing of the Guard and scheduled start times.
• Convenient meeting point: outside The Ritz London, easy to find and close to Green Park tube station.
• Focus on Royalty & Politics: ideal for fans of the monarchy, history buffs, or series enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

While we haven’t done this tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary and reviews paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect. It’s a walking journey through the most famous parts of Westminster—the oldest part of London, where royalty and political power have converged for centuries.

Starting Point: The Ritz London

The tour kicks off in style outside The Ritz, right next to a couple of red telephone boxes and souvenir stands. It’s a classic and recognizable meeting spot, with Green Park station nearby for easy access. This initial meet-up sets the tone for a relaxed but informative walk.

Buckingham Palace

The first major highlight is Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s official residence. The guide will point out interesting facts and history, and you’ll get a chance to snap some photos of the iconic façade. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday at 10am, you might get to see the Changing of the Guard, a spectacle loved by many. Just remember, that part of the tour is weather dependent, so it might be canceled if the weather’s bad.

Trafalgar Square & Nelson’s Column

Next, you’ll stroll to Trafalgar Square, a lively hub packed with history and culture. It’s surrounded by historic buildings, and Nelson’s Column dominates the space—perfect for capturing quintessential London photos. Guides often share stories behind the square’s significance and its role in national celebrations.

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Horse Guards Parade

A short walk leads you to the Horse Guards Parade, where you’ll see the mounted royal bodyguards. This site offers a glimpse into the pomp of royal ceremonies and is a favorite for many travelers who appreciate the pageantry of British traditions.

Downing Street

After that, you’ll pass by 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence. While you can’t go inside, the guide will point out this iconic door and share some political history. It’s a neat photo stop and adds a political dimension to the royal sights.

Parliament Square & Westminster Abbey

The tour then moves to Parliament Square, a hub of British democracy. Here, you’ll learn about the buildings and their significance, with a guided walk that helps put the architecture into context. As you approach Westminster Abbey, you’ll get to see this Gothic masterpiece—another key royal site—though the tour mainly offers a photo stop and some projected history rather than inside access.

Final Stop: The Houses of Parliament

The tour ends near the Houses of Parliament, which are stunning both day and night. Sitting in Parliament Square, you can soak in the atmosphere and take last-minute photos. Although the inside isn’t part of this tour, the exterior views are impressive and tell stories of centuries of political history.

What to Expect and How It Adds Up

The guided tour is designed to give you a broad picture of London’s royal and political landscape without feeling rushed. Expect plenty of walking—roughly covering around 2 miles—so wear comfortable shoes. The guide’s local insight makes even the most familiar landmarks feel fresh, and their storytelling can bring the history to life.

The small group format tends to foster a more relaxed and interactive experience, allowing you to ask questions and get personalized tips. Based on traveler reviews, guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which makes a significant difference when navigating such a historic city.

Price and Value

At roughly $33.67 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see key sights without the need for multiple tickets or long queues. It doesn’t include extras like food, drinks, or hotel transportation, but it’s a solid choice if your goal is to get a good overview rather than a deep dive into specific sites.

Accessibility & Practical Tips

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is great for those with mobility challenges. Starting point is easy to find, and the schedule is flexible, with options for different start times. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, an umbrella (London’s weather can be unpredictable), and your camera for photo ops.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If your heart beats a little faster at the idea of standing in front of Buckingham Palace, or if you’re a fan of The Crown, this tour is a good fit. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to see London’s highlights quickly and affordably, especially if they’re traveling on a tight schedule or prefer walking to bus or bike tours.

History buffs and those interested in British politics will appreciate the stops at Parliament Square and Downing Street, while anyone curious about royal traditions will enjoy the sights around Buckingham Palace and Horse Guards.

Final Thoughts

This tour is a solid choice for anyone seeking a cost-conscious, engaging, yet straightforward introduction to the royal and political heart of London. The local guide’s storytelling enriches the experience, making the sights more meaningful than just a photo opportunity. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy walking and want to see the most iconic landmarks without the hassle of multiple ticketed entries.

While it doesn’t go inside many of the sites, the outdoor views and stories you’ll gather are enough to give you a sense of the history and grandeur. It’s a tour that respects your time and budget but still delivers a memorable experience packed with useful insights.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, it involves walking and sightseeing suitable for older children. Younger kids might find the pace and historical details a bit dull unless they’re interested in royal history.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the meeting point is outside The Ritz London, near Green Park station.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, but only if you book the 10am start time on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday. Remember, the ceremony is weather dependent and might be canceled.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from about 20 to 40 minutes, with most sites given enough time for photos and brief insights.

Are entry tickets to sites like Westminster Abbey included?
No, this is a walking tour, so inside visits are not part of it. You’ll see the outside and hear stories, but if you want inside access, you’ll need separate tickets.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair friendly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, an umbrella, camera, and some snacks or water. Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed on the tour.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a chance to see other royal sites not listed?
The tour focuses on the key landmarks listed; additional sites would require a different or longer tour.

Will I learn about the royal family’s history?
Yes, the guide shares stories and background about the monarchy’s connection to the city’s sights, making it more meaningful.

If you’re curious about a portrait of London’s royal and political scene, this walking tour shows you some of the most recognizable landmarks and stories. It’s a neat, pocket-friendly way to get a taste of what makes London so special—perfect for a quick, memorable visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: