Private Walking Tour of Royal London with Changing of the Guard

Exploring Royal London: A Practical Review of the Private Walking Tour with Changing of the Guard

If you’re considering a guided adventure through London’s most iconic royal landmarks, this private walking tour offers a personalized way to see the sights. It promises a deep dive into the city’s regal history while allowing you to enjoy the bustling street scenes and majestic architecture at your own pace.

What we particularly like about this experience is the intimate setting—being part of a small group means more time with your guide to ask questions and snap those perfect photos. Plus, the highlight of watching the Changing of the Guard up close is genuinely impressive and often a highlight for visitors.

That said, a possible drawback is the walking pace and the crowds, which one review hints at. If you’re not used to navigating busy streets or have mobility concerns, it’s good to be aware.

This tour suits travelers who love history, want a flexible, curated experience, and enjoy walking through the city’s royal heart. It’s especially ideal if you prefer a more personal touch over large bus tours or just want to focus on the key landmarks without fuss.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: As a private tour, it offers more tailored attention from your guide.
• Rich Landmark Coverage: You’ll see many of London’s top royal sights, from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides bring history to life with engaging stories.
• Time Management: Ample opportunities for photos, especially at major stops.
• Walking Intensity: The tour involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Weather Flexibility: Rain or shine, the tour proceeds—so bring an umbrella if needed.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Covent Garden

The tour kicks off at 10 am right in the heart of Covent Garden, specifically near the Punch and Judy Pub at 40 Henrietta Street. This lively spot is perfect for gathering and getting a feel for the city’s vibrant street life before heading into the royal zone.

Meeting here early allows your guide to set the tone and give a quick overview before the sightseeing begins. It’s a convenient spot for those staying nearby or arriving via public transit, as it’s near major tube stations.

Trafalgar Square: The Iconic Heart of London

From Covent Garden, you’ll walk over to the renowned Trafalgar Square. Here, you’ll spend about ten minutes soaking in its lively atmosphere, marveling at Nelson’s Column, and admiring the fountains and architecture. Your guide will share stories about Admiral Nelson, adding context to what you’re seeing.

The small group size makes it easier to take photos and enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. It’s a classic London scene—and a great spot to appreciate the city’s blend of history and culture.

Admiralty Arch and Buckingham Palace

Next, you’ll pass by Admiralty Arch, peeking through to glimpse Buckingham Palace at the other end of The Mall. This quick stop is more about the view and photo ops, as you’ll visit the Palace itself later.

The walk along The Mall is a highlight—it’s the grand ceremonial route used for royal processions and public celebrations. Walking down this red carpet-like street, you’ll get a sense of the pomp and circumstance that surrounds royal events.

Horse Guards Parade and the Changing of the Guard

One of the tour’s major attractions is witnessing the Changing of the Queen’s Lifeguards at Horse Guards Parade. Your guide will position you for the best view, explaining the ceremony’s significance—an event that’s been performed for over 350 years.

Expect a lively, colorful spectacle with guards in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats. You’ll have plenty of time to snap photos and even ask to take pictures with the guards, something many find memorable.

Walking Along The Mall and Buckingham Palace

After the ceremony, you’ll stroll down the iconic Mall, with its grand trees and flags flying, leading straight to Buckingham Palace. From the outside, you’ll get a clear view of the royal residence, with your guide sharing stories about its history and current role as the monarch’s home.

While the palace’s exterior is impressive, note that entry isn’t included—but the photo opportunities from outside are excellent. If you’re lucky, you might catch the guards changing duty during your visit.

St. James’s Palace and St. James’s Park

Next, the tour takes you to St. James’s Palace, built during King Henry VIII’s reign. Your guide will share amusing anecdotes about royal occupants and the palace’s history.

A short walk brings you into St. James’s Park, one of London’s most picturesque royal parks. The peaceful lake, lush greenery, and colorful flowerbeds offer a pleasant break from the busy streets. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, perfect for a quick rest or more photos.

Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament

Your final stops are outside Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. The guide will tell stories about the fascinating figures buried inside Westminster Abbey—a place that’s seen coronations, royal weddings, and state funerals.

Across the street, the Houses of Parliament stands as an architectural marvel. Your guide will explain its political significance and history, giving you a richer understanding of Britain’s governance.

While interior visits aren’t part of this tour, the exteriors alone offer enough grandeur for a satisfying conclusion to your royal exploration.

Practical Aspects and What to Expect

Length, Cost, and Value

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which is a good balance of seeing major sights without feeling too rushed. For $171.07 per person, it’s a pricier option than bus tours—but consider the benefits of a private guide and the ability to customize your experience.

Having a small group means more personalized attention—your guide can answer questions, tell stories, and help you get those perfect pictures. That kind of interaction is hard to find on larger tours.

Walking and Comfort

Given the tour involves quite a bit of walking, comfortable shoes are essential. The pace is generally manageable, but one review mentioned the walking pace as potentially fast, especially if you need bathroom breaks or have mobility concerns.

Weather and Clothing

Since the tour proceeds rain or shine, bringing an umbrella and dressing appropriately for the weather is wise. London weather can be unpredictable, and outdoor sightseeing can be less enjoyable in bad weather.

Photos and Photosharing

This tour provides ample chances for photos, especially at iconic landmarks. Your guide will help you find the best angles, which is perfect if you’re into Instagram-worthy shots.

Accessibility and Family-Friendliness

The tour is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable walking. It’s not specifically tailored for children, but families with older kids used to walking and sightseeing should find it engaging.

Reviews and Real Traveler Perspectives

While most reviews are positive, one reviewer, Michael H., mentioned feeling overwhelmed by crowds and walking too fast, which caused some discomfort. He noted, “Getting lost in the crowds. You need toilet breaks. The walking pace is too fast. I have hurt my ankle.”

This highlights the importance of being prepared for busy streets and wearing comfortable shoes. It also reminds us that the experience’s pace may not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues.

On the upside, many reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views they offered. The personal nature of the tour means there’s room for questions, and guides often go beyond the basics to share fun stories, making the experience more memorable.

The Sum Up: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This private walking tour of Royal London is best suited for travelers who want a curated, flexible experience without the hassle of large group tours. If you enjoy history, architecture, and the pomp of royal traditions, you’ll find plenty to love here. The personalized guidance ensures you get insider stories and photo tips, making your visit richer.

However, keep in mind the walking involved and the potential crowds, especially at the Changing of the Guard. It’s a great choice if you’re comfortable on your feet and enjoy exploring at a leisurely, yet structured pace.

For those wanting a deep yet manageable dive into London’s royal scene, this tour balances education, sightseeing, and personal attention—making it a worthwhile option for travelers craving an authentic, well-informed experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility concerns. Comfortable shoes and readiness for a fair amount of standing are recommended.

Does the tour include entry into any buildings?
No, the tour is primarily sightseeing outside landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament. Entry tickets are not included.

What’s the best time to see the Changing of the Guard?
The ceremony is scheduled on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Confirm the day when booking, as it’s a key highlight.

How many people are in the group?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, which allows for more personalized attention.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it runs rain or shine. Be prepared for the weather with an umbrella or raincoat.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you a good amount of sightseeing without overextending.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. There are plenty of photo opportunities, and your guide is happy to help with shots, especially at major landmarks.

What should I bring?
Bring water, comfortable shoes, a camera, and an umbrella if rain is forecasted.

This tour offers a wonderful way to see some of London’s most iconic royal sights with the benefit of a private guide. It’s a good pick for those who want a more relaxed pace, personalized stories, and the chance to capture memorable moments amidst London’s grand architecture and traditions.