If you’re planning a trip to London and want to combine iconic sights with a breathtaking view, the London: The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Walking Tour might be just what you’re looking for. This experience promises an hour-long exploration of Westminster’s most famous landmarks, followed by a chance to see the city from the highest vantage point in town — The Shard.

What really catches our eye about this tour is the small-group setting and the knowledgeable local guides who make the history and sights come alive. Plus, the opportunity to stand on London’s highest open-air platform on level 72 is pretty tempting.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include entry into The Shard itself—once you’re at the top, you’re on your own to enjoy the views. That could be a dealbreaker if you’re looking for a seamless, all-in-one ticket experience.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love a good mix of sightseeing and panoramic views, especially if you appreciate a more intimate group rather than large crowds. Families with older kids or history buffs who want a guided touch to their sightseeing will find it especially appealing.

Key Points

Combines top Westminster sights with a panoramic view from The Shard
Small group and local guides make the experience engaging and personal
Includes entrance to The Shard Viewing Gallery but not the fast track or open-air platform
Duration of around 5 hours, split between walking and viewing time
Accessible and flexible with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance
No hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

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Starting Point: The Ritz London

Our adventure begins outside the elegant Ritz hotel, right in the heart of Piccadilly. This spot is quite central and easy to find — perfect for starting your day of sightseeing. Meeting here, you’re immediately immersed in the London vibe, with the chance to snap some photos of this iconic luxury hotel.

Buckingham Palace and Surrounds

The first major stop is Buckingham Palace, where you’ll get a photo opportunity and hear a bit about the royal residence. The guided walk means you’ll learn some behind-the-scenes details that you might miss just wandering solo. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the Changing of the Guard (on certain days), which is quite a spectacle and a highlight for many visitors.

Trafalgar Square and Whitehall

Next, we stroll through Trafalgar Square, a lively hub filled with statues and fountains, perfect for a quick photo. Then, onto Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall where you can snap a shot of the ceremonial guard and imagine the history behind Whitehall’s government buildings.

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Downing Street and Parliament Square

From there, it’s just a short walk to 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence, though you won’t get close enough to go inside. Still, seeing it from the outside is impressive. The tour continues around Parliament Square, where you’ll get a good sense of London’s political heart.

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Westminster Abbey and Final Stops

The iconic Westminster Abbey is next, and although you only have a brief guided look, it’s enough to appreciate the grandeur. Afterward, your guide points you toward The Shard for the next phase of the experience.

The Shard Experience

How You Get There

After the walking tour, your guide will give directions to The Shard. It’s just a short walk, and you’ll take a high-speed elevator to the 68th floor — a ride that feels quick but adds to the sense of entering a modern marvel.

What You’ll See

Once at the top, you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view stretching up to 40 miles on a clear day. The views encompass London’s skyline, landmarks, and the Thames winding through the city. It’s a truly striking perspective and a chance to see London from a different angle—literally.

Level 72 Open-Air Platform

Feeling brave? The open-air viewing platform on level 72 offers an even more exhilarating experience. Just keep in mind that this might be for the more daring, and the tour doesn’t include access to this level — you’ll need to buy a ticket on your own.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You get the entrance ticket to The Shard Viewing Gallery and a guided tour of Westminster’s highlights. The small group setting means you’ll have a more personal experience, and your guide is there to share local insights.

What’s missing? Food, drinks, and snacks aren’t provided, so plan to bring your own or grab something nearby. Also, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the meeting point.

How the Experience Plays Out

Timing-wise, the entire tour takes about five hours. That’s enough time to really soak in the sights without feeling rushed. The walking segments are manageable—mostly short walks from one landmark to another with plenty of photo stops.

The guide proves to be a real asset, according to reviews—many travelers appreciated their knowledgeable and friendly manner. This makes a difference, especially when trying to absorb the complex layers of London’s history and politics.

The price of around $101 per person might seem high, but considering it includes a guided walking tour plus access to The Shard, it’s fairly reasonable for a comprehensive experience. The views from the top are genuinely spectacular and justify the ticket cost, especially if you’re one to linger and take lots of photos.

The Pros and Cons

Pros

Intimate, small-group format enhances the experience
Expert guides provide valuable context and stories
Combines sightseeing with a stunning view of London’s skyline
Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind
Central meeting point simplifies logistics

Cons

No direct entry into The Shard (you need to buy separate tickets if you want to skip the line)
Limited time on the viewing platform—two hours might not be enough for some
Lack of hotel transport means you need to get yourself to the meeting point
Changing of Guard is only on certain days and times, so plan accordingly

Who Would This Tour Suit?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a blend of classic sightseeing and a panoramic city view. It’s also perfect for those who prefer a small, guided group rather than large tours. Families with older children might enjoy it, especially if they’re interested in history and architecture.

Travelers who enjoy photo opportunities and learning from knowledgeable guides will find this to be a satisfying option. If you’re looking for a rundown of London’s highlights combined with a chance to see the city from above, this tour ticks those boxes well.

Final Thoughts

The London: The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Walking Tour offers a solid balance of history, sights, and breathtaking views. We loved the way the small group makes the experience more personal, with guides who genuinely bring the city’s stories to life. The view from The Shard is undeniably impressive and provides a fresh perspective on London’s skyline.

While it’s not a fully all-in-one ticket experience—since you’ll need to purchase your own entry to The Shard if you want to visit the open-air platform—it still offers good value, especially if you appreciate a guided walk with insightful commentary.

This tour suits travelers who want to hit the main sights with the benefit of expert guidance, topped off with a high-up view that’s worth the price. It’s not overly rushed, and the flexibility allows you to enjoy your day at a relaxed pace.

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London: The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Walking Tour

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for older children, especially those interested in sightseeing and history. However, the view from The Shard might be more appreciated by those comfortable with heights and elevated spaces.

Does the tour include entry into The Shard?
Yes, you receive a ticket to the Viewing Gallery, but not the fast track or open-air platform on level 72. You’ll need to buy those separately if you want to access them.

How long does the entire experience last?
The whole tour takes about five hours—three hours for the Westminster walking tour, plus two hours at The Shard.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside The Ritz London on Piccadilly and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is transportation included?
No, you’ll need to make your own way to the starting point, which is close to Green Park Underground station.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, an umbrella, a camera, and some cash for snacks or souvenirs are recommended.

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

Are there options for private groups?
Yes, private or small group options are available, making the experience more tailored and intimate.

If you’re after a well-rounded, visually spectacular way to see London’s landmarks with informative guides, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just plan ahead for the logistics and be ready to enjoy the best view in town.