London: Royal Tour with Westminster Abbey & Afternoon Tea

If you’re looking to see London’s royal side without the hassle of planning every detail, this Royal London tour combined with Westminster Abbey and Afternoon Tea could be just what you need. It’s a well-rounded experience that offers a taste of the city’s regal history, iconic sights, and a lovely break over tea. We’ve looked into what makes this tour special—and what might be worth considering—so you can decide if it fits your trip style.

Two things we really appreciate are the expert guidance from a Blue Badge Guide—the highest guiding accreditation—and the stunning views offered from the coach, giving you a scenic overview of Westminster and central London. The chance to watch the Changing of the Guard up close is another highlight, bringing a bit of that royal pageantry to life.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite structured—meaning if you love exploring at your own pace, this might feel a little rushed. Also, since the tour ends near Victoria Station, those staying farther out might need to arrange additional transportation.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of London’s royal landmarks and history without the stress of figuring everything out alone. It’s a good pick for first-timers or those wanting a blend of sightseeing and a relaxing afternoon with a touch of elegance.

Key Points

• Expert guides make history engaging without feeling like a lecture.
• Scenic coach tour provides a broad overview of Westminster and central London.
• Watching the Changing of the Guard offers a classic royal spectacle.
• Westminster Abbey visit gives an intimate look at centuries of British history.
• Afternoon Tea at the Cellarium Café is a relaxing way to conclude your day.
• No hotel pick-up means planning your own transport to and from the meeting point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Coach Tour

The adventure begins at Victoria Coach Station, a familiar spot for many London travelers. Meeting the friendly team at Gate 1, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable, climate-controlled coach. This isn’t a quick drive—it’s a 1.5-hour panoramic tour through Westminster, guided by a Blue Badge Guide, whose insights truly enhance the experience. Expect to see landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament with Big Ben, No. 10 Downing Street, the Royal Albert Hall, and the London Eye—all through large panoramic windows that make snapping photos easy.

The guide’s commentary is a highlight, painting pictures of London’s regal roots and explaining the stories behind each monument. One review mentioned, “The guide was extremely knowledgeable, making the history come alive,” which is exactly what you want when hearing about history in a city like London.

Watching the Changing of the Guard

If your visit coincides with the Guard change, you’ll get a front-row view at Buckingham Palace from your special vantage point. This ceremony is one of the most iconic sights in London, filled with pomp, precision, and centuries of tradition. Not everyone gets to witness it up close, so this guided tour’s arrangement ensures you won’t miss out.

Some travelers noted they managed to get fantastic photos, and overall, the ceremony left an impression of grandeur and tradition. Keep in mind, on days when no Guard Change occurs, the tour may include a visit to Horse Guards Parade instead—a nice alternative, though perhaps not quite as quintessential.

Westminster Abbey Exploration

After the coach tour, you’ll disembark and make your way independently to Westminster Abbey—a walk of about 10-15 minutes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure chest of history, famously the site of every British coronation since 1066. Inside, you’ll find the Coronation Chair, which has been used for monarchs from Edward I onward, and the Lady Chapel, where 15 kings and queens are buried, including Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots.

Your ticket grants independent entry and access to a multimedia guide, making your visit as informative as you like. The abbey is a place where centuries of history are layered in every stone and stained glass window. Many visitors find it both awe-inspiring and contemplative.

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The Coronation & Historical Highlights

The tour emphasizes the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, scheduled for May 6, 2023. Seeing the Coronation Chair and related sites offers a tangible connection to this historic event. It’s a rare chance to witness the setting where British monarchs have been crowned for over 1,000 years.

The fan-vaulted Lady Chapel and Chapter House are architectural marvels, with details like carved pendants and ornate decorations. The tombs of notable figures and the history embedded in the walls make it a must-see for anyone interested in British royalty or architecture.

Afternoon Tea in the Cellarium Café & Terrace

After exploring, you’ll head to the Cellarium Café & Terrace, located within Westminster Abbey. Here, you’ll indulge in a full traditional Afternoon Tea—a delightful break after a morning of sightseeing.

You can choose to enjoy your tea before or after your Abbey visit, depending on your preference. The experience lasts around 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy a selection of scones, sandwiches, pastries, and tea. The setting is charming and historic, adding to the sense of occasion.

One reviewer mentioned that the tea was “the perfect way to unwind after a busy morning,” and many appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and quality service.

Analyzing the Value

At $173.76 per person, this package offers a lot of content—from the coach tour, the Abbey visit, to the afternoon tea. When you consider the included expert guide, the tickets, and the experience of the tea, it does seem to deliver good value, especially for first-time visitors wanting a rundown.

The guided coach tour ensures you see the highlights without fighting crowds or navigating public transport, which is a real advantage if you’re short on time or prefer comfort. The independent entry to Westminster Abbey means you can explore at your own pace, and the afternoon tea adds a touch of indulgence to round out the day.

Practical Considerations

The tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to Victoria Coach Station on your own or arrange transfer. Also, the timing is fixed—the tour lasts around 6 hours, which could be long for some, but it’s packed with sightseeing and memorable moments.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided explanations, stunning views, and a taste of royal tradition, this experience can be quite satisfying. However, if you prefer exploring independently or have mobility considerations, some parts might require extra planning.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to London who want an organized, informative overview. It’s perfect if you’re interested in royalty, history, and architecture but don’t want to spend hours planning each detail. It’s also great for those who enjoy a leisurely afternoon break over classic British tea in a historic setting.

However, if you’re someone who prefers more flexibility, or if you’re traveling with a tight schedule, you might find the fixed itinerary a bit rigid. Similarly, if you’re visiting with very young children or have special mobility needs, check whether the walking distances and standing times suit your group.

FAQs About the Tour

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify, the experience is primarily sightseeing and walking, so it could be suitable for older children who are interested in history and royalty. Keep in mind that Westminster Abbey involves some walking and standing.

Are the timings fixed?
Yes, the total duration is about 6 hours, with set starting times. It’s best to check availability for your preferred date.

Does the tour include hotel transfers?
No, it starts and ends at Victoria Coach Station, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the meeting point.

Is there free Wi-Fi and charging?
Yes, the coach provides Wi-Fi and USB charging ports, making it easier to stay connected or plan on the go.

Can I enjoy the Afternoon Tea before the Abbey visit?
Yes, the afternoon tea can be enjoyed either before or after visiting Westminster Abbey, depending on your preference.

What landmarks will I see during the coach tour?
Expect to see Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Parliament Square, No. 10 Downing Street, the Royal Albert Hall, the London Eye, and more.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your package includes the coach tour, Westminster Abbey entry, multimedia guide, Afternoon Tea at the Cellarium Café & Terrace, and use of personal headsets for the guide.

What if I miss the Guard change?
If your visit doesn’t coincide with the Guard change, the tour will include a visit to Horse Guards Parade instead.

How long is the Westminster Abbey visit?
You will have roughly an hour for the Abbey, with independent access and multimedia guides to explore at your own pace.

What is the guide’s level of expertise?
The guide is a Blue Badge Guide, the highest accreditation for London guides, meaning you’re in knowledgeable hands.

Final Thoughts

This Royal London tour with Westminster Abbey and Afternoon Tea offers a well-structured way to soak in London’s regal atmosphere. It balances guided sightseeing with personal exploration, topped with a charming tea experience in a historic setting. If you’re after a convenient, informative day that hits all the major royal and historic highlights, it’s a strong choice.

On the other hand, if you prefer more flexibility or are traveling with very young kids, you might want to consider alternative options. Still, for many visitors, this experience delivers a memorable blend of history, pageantry, and leisure.

Whether it’s your first time in London or a repeat visit, this tour provides a window into the city’s royal soul—topped with a lovely afternoon treat you’ll enjoy long after you’ve left.

Note: Always check the latest availability and timings before booking, as schedules can change.

You can check availability for your dates here: