London: Buckingham Palace & Big Ben (& Westminster Abbey entry)

If you’re planning your first trip to London and want to tick off some of the city’s most iconic sights without spending days doing it, this small-group walking tour might be just what you need. It’s designed to give an overview of 20 of London’s top landmarks in about five hours—an efficient way to absorb the city’s vibe and history. While it’s not a deep dive into every detail, it offers a solid introduction, especially for those with limited time or who prefer guided insights over wandering solo.

Two things we particularly like about this tour: first, the inclusion of Westminster Abbey tickets—a huge time-saver and a chance to explore one of London’s most breathtaking historic sites without the long lines. Second, the small-group format, which makes the experience more personal and easier to get questions answered. That said, a potential downside is that it’s a walking tour, so if you have mobility issues or are not keen on a lot of walking, it might be a bit demanding.

This tour suits first-time visitors, history buffs, or anyone who wants a rundown with expert commentary. If you want to see London’s highlights efficiently and learn a bit along the way, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Time-efficient: Cover 20 top sights in just about 5 hours.
• Well-organized itinerary: From Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey, including major landmarks.
• Includes Westminster Abbey entry: No long lines, with an audio guide to explore at your own pace.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable hosts who share stories and insider info.
• Small-group experience: More personalized, less rushed.
• Ideal for first-timers: Perfect for those with limited time or who prefer guided tours.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting at Buckingham Palace

Your adventure begins in the elegant Green Park before reaching Buckingham Palace, the residence of the reigning monarch. Your guide will share stories about royal traditions and the history of this grand building. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the Changing of the Guard, which happens on certain days and is a highlight for many visitors. Your guide will find the best spot for viewing, so you don’t miss a thing. Keep in mind that watching the Guard change is optional, and if you’re familiar with it, you might find it less exciting the second time around.

Walking along the Royal Mall to Trafalgar Square

Next, you’ll stroll down the Royal Mall, soaking in the regal atmosphere. A quick stop at Trafalgar Square offers a chance to see Nelson’s Column and the famous fountains, along with the National Gallery’s impressive façade. This spot is always lively and perfect for snapping photos or just people-watching.

Horse Guards Parade and St. James Park

From Trafalgar Square, the route takes you to Horse Guards Parade, a grand open space with an iconic arch and the chance for some great photos. Nearby, St. James Park adds a touch of greenery and tranquility amidst the city bustle. The guide usually points out the famous clock and shares tidbits about the area’s history.

Whitehall and Downing Street

Moving along, Whitehall is full of government buildings, monuments, and the famous Downing Street, where the Prime Minister lives and works. Your guide will tell stories about British political history and point out notable landmarks for about 30 minutes.

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

At Parliament Square, the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben are, of course, the stars. You’ll get close-up views, with the London Eye and Churchill Statue providing a perfect backdrop for photos. This is probably the most recognizable part of the tour—no surprise that reviews often mention how thrilling it is to see these iconic structures.

Westminster Abbey

Finally, you’ll arrive at Westminster Abbey, a building steeped in history and architecture. You’ll skip the long lines because your tickets are pre-booked, and you can explore at your own pace with a free audio guide. The Abbey has hosted over a thousand years of royal ceremonies, including coronations, making it one of London’s most historic sites.

The Value of This Tour

At $134.99 per person, this tour offers a good deal considering it includes admission to Westminster Abbey, a site that often charges hefty entrance fees. The guided component means you’ll get more context than wandering alone, which is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with London’s history or architecture.

The tour’s reviews consistently praise the guides, with many mentioning their knowledge, humor, and ability to keep the group moving efficiently. For example, one reviewer raved about Brandon’s accommodating attitude and how he shared insider info, like watching the Royal Guard practice the King’s upcoming birthday. Others appreciated the friendly, engaging style of guides like Will and Ashley.

The Walk and Timing

The entire experience lasts about five hours, which means you’ll be walking for a good chunk of that. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to take photos and absorb the atmosphere. Be prepared for some physical activity, especially if you’re not used to walking for extended periods.

The meeting point is at The Ritz London, making it easy to access via public transportation. The tour starts at 10:00 am, giving your day a strong anchor for sightseeing or other plans afterward.

Challenges or Downsides

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers point out that the tour doesn’t specify that you’ll be stopping to watch the Changing of the Guard, which could be a disappointment if you’ve already seen it elsewhere or don’t want to spend extra time waiting. One reviewer even left the group after the Guard ceremony, feeling it was a waste of time.

Plus, because Westminster Abbey tickets are pre-booked, there’s no flexibility if you want more time inside. If you prefer a more leisurely experience or want to avoid lines altogether, booking skip-the-line tickets separately might be worth considering.

Also, since it’s a walking tour, weather could be a factor. Bring an umbrella if rain is forecast and wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore more on your own afterward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits first-time visitors eager to get their bearings and see the highlights. If you’re pressed for time but want a guided overview—plus the convenience of included Westminster Abbey entry—it hits the sweet spot. History enthusiasts and photo lovers will appreciate the expert commentary and prime viewpoints.

However, if you’re someone who prefers exploring independently or has mobility issues, you might find the walking demanding. Also, if you’ve already seen the Changing of the Guard and want to skip it, clarify if that’s included before booking.

The Sum Up

All in all, this tour offers a balanced mix of efficiency, education, and iconic sights. It’s especially strong on guides—many guests rave about their knowledge, humor, and ability to keep things engaging without rushing too fast. The inclusion of Westminster Abbey entry is a real bonus, saving you time and extra expense, and the small-group setting ensures a more personalized experience.

While it’s not perfect for those who dislike walking or want a more relaxed pace, it’s an excellent option for first-time visitors or anyone short on time but eager to see the essentials of London. The value for money, combined with expert storytelling, makes it a worthwhile choice for those wanting an overview packed with memorable moments.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative introduction to London’s most famous sights with friendly guides leading the way, this tour is worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, children who can comfortably walk and stay engaged with stories should find it interesting. Keep in mind, it involves about five hours of walking and standing.

Do I need to bring anything specific? Bring comfortable shoes, an umbrella if rain looks likely, and maybe a water bottle. Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or a packed lunch if you want to stay fueled.

What happens if it rains? The tour is outdoors for most of the route, so an umbrella or raincoat is recommended. Weather can affect the experience somewhat, but guides will do their best to keep everyone comfortable.

How long do I get at Westminster Abbey? You’ll have about two hours inside, exploring at your own pace with a free audio guide. The tickets are pre-booked, so no waiting in long lines.

Can I join the tour if I don’t know London well? Absolutely. Guides are there to share stories and give context, making it a great way to learn the city’s layout and history without getting lost.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, but since it’s primarily walking, you might want to contact the provider in advance if you need accommodations.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

This tour balances a structured visit of London’s highlights with the personal touch of expert guides, making it a practical choice for those wanting a memorable, educational experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.