Best of Westminster Abbey with Upper Gallery & Buckingham Palace

If you’re pondering a tour that combines some of London’s most iconic royal landmarks with a dose of history and architecture, this “Best of Westminster Abbey with Upper Gallery & Buckingham Palace” tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve researched thoroughly and spoken to travelers who have, to give you the inside scoop.

What really makes it stand out? First, the expert Blue Badge guides who bring stories to life, and second, the skip-the-line access that saves you precious time—an especially valuable benefit in busy London. That said, it’s not all perfect; the tour’s length, at around 3 hours, means a fair amount of walking and standing, which could be tiring for some. This experience seems best suited for those with a keen interest in royalty, history, or architecture, and who want a well-rounded glimpse of London’s crown jewels without overdoing it.

Key Points

• In-depth exploration of Westminster Abbey with skip-the-line entry
• Access to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries for a close-up view of royal artifacts
• Guided insights about “The Crown” filming locations and royal stories
• Optional upgrade to see the Changing of the Guard
• View of Big Ben and Parliament for great photo opportunities
• Tour duration of around 3 hours makes it a manageable but packed experience
• Limited mobility considerations; not recommended for travelers with restrictions
• Small group setting for a more personalized experience

Exploring Westminster Abbey in Detail

The Cloisters: Stepping into Medieval London

Starting at the medieval cloisters, we loved how this entrance instantly transports you back in time. It’s a quiet, atmospheric spot where monks once meditated and walked—today, it’s a stunning gateway into the Abbey’s history. The included 10-minute visit here is a nice touch, setting the scene for what’s to come.

Westminster Abbey: The Heart of Royal and National Life

The main highlight of this tour is, of course, the Abbey itself. As you step inside, your guide—an experienced Blue Badge guide—begins unfolding stories behind the architecture and the people who have been part of this space. The tour covers the Abbey’s connection to the royal family, and you’ll learn about royal coronations, weddings, and memorials.

Travelers have noted the guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. One reviewer mentioned, “We learned so much in our time at Westminster Abbey,” and another appreciated the storytelling about “the triumphs and tribulations of Queen Elizabeth II.” This personal touch helps bring history to life, making it more engaging than just wandering around on your own.

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries: A Visual Feast

Climbing into the Queen Elizabeth II Gallery offers a spectacular view of artifacts spanning a thousand years. You’ll see items like the coronation chair of Queen Mary II, Queen Elizabeth I’s corset, and other treasures from worship and daily life within the Abbey. The 20-minute visit here is a highlight for anyone interested in seeing the royal memorabilia up close.

One reviewer called this part “dazzling,” emphasizing how the exhibits make royal history feel tangible. It’s a rare chance to connect with personal stories behind the monarchy, making the visit more than just a sightseeing stop.

Up Close with Big Ben and Parliament

Next, stepping outside, you get to admire Big Ben from Parliament Square. The views here are perfect for photos and appreciating one of London’s most recognized landmarks. The 30-minute stop is free, and travelers found it a great photo opportunity.

Similarly, the Houses of Parliament can be viewed from the outside, offering a glimpse of the impressive architecture. Keep in mind, admission to the interior is not included, so if you’re craving a deeper dive into Parliament’s history, you’ll need a separate tour.

Buckingham Palace: The Iconic Exterior

The final stop is Buckingham Palace, where you can marvel at the outside of the monarch’s residence. The tour includes an exterior visit and some fascinating stories from your guide about its past and present. While the interior isn’t included, many find just seeing the Palace from the outside quite satisfying.

One of the perks is the optional upgrade to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which many travelers find adds excitement and a true royal experience. However, keep in mind that the visit to Buckingham Palace is an external view only, so if entering the Palace is your goal, you’ll need a different ticket.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers some excellent perks, especially skip-the-line tickets to Westminster Abbey and access to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries. The guides are described as “first-class” and highly informative, which adds tremendous value, especially if you’re a history buff.

However, it’s important to note what’s not included: entry to the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben’s interior, or Buckingham Palace’s interior (if that’s on your wish list). The tour also doesn’t include transportation, food, or drinks, so plan accordingly.

Price & Value

At $183.79 per person, the price seems fair considering the skip-the-line access, guided commentary, and special galleries. Travelers who appreciate expert guides and want a curated experience often find it worth the cost. Some even feel that the access to the Upper Galleries makes it a uniquely enriching visit.

Tour Duration & Group Size

The 3-hour length strikes a balance—enough time to see key sights without feeling rushed. The group size maxes out at 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for easier questions and interaction.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a good amount of walking, including over uneven surfaces and stairs.
• Start early to beat the crowds, especially at Westminster Abbey, which can get very busy later in the day.
• Check the weather forecast—the tour operates in all conditions, so dress appropriately.
• Be prepared for some walking and standing, which might be challenging for travelers with limited mobility.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a history lover, a royal enthusiast, or someone eager to avoid long lines at one of London’s most famous landmarks, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who value expert guiding and curated access over simply wandering on your own.

Conversely, if interior visits to Buckingham Palace or Parliament are your priority, this tour might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re not comfortable with walking or standing for extended periods, consider your personal mobility needs before booking.

Final Thoughts

This “Best of Westminster Abbey with Upper Gallery & Buckingham Palace” tour offers a well-rounded and engaging way to experience some of London’s most iconic sights. The combination of skip-the-line entry, expert guides, and access to the Queen’s Gallery makes it a solid choice for those who want a structured, insightful visit rather than a self-guided wander.

The tour’s storytelling and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, especially about “The Crown” and royal history, add an extra layer of interest. While it doesn’t cover interior visits to the Palace or Parliament, the external views and galleries make it a satisfying experience.

For anyone who enjoys history, architecture, and royal lore, and who appreciates quality guiding, this tour is likely to deliver a memorable slice of London life. Be prepared for some walking, and consider whether you want to see the interiors of the royal sites—if so, plan for additional tickets.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour is generally suitable for older children who can handle walking and standing for a few hours. Keep in mind, the focus is on history and architecture, so very young kids might find it less engaging.

Does the tour include entrance to Buckingham Palace?
No, the exterior of Buckingham Palace is viewed from outside only. The tour does not include interior access to the Palace.

Can I upgrade the tour to see the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, there is an optional upgrade available that allows you to see and learn about the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

What’s the best time to start?
Starting early is recommended to avoid crowds, especially at Westminster Abbey.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including stops at key sights, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Are tickets included?
Yes, the tour includes skip-the-line tickets for Westminster Abbey and entry to the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour does not include transportation. You’ll need to arrange your own travel to and from the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as there’s a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces.

Is the tour operated in bad weather?
Yes, it operates rain or shine. Dress appropriately for the weather.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

If you’re eager to explore London’s royal landmarks with a knowledgeable guide and skip the long lines, this tour offers a practical and enriching way to do it. Just remember to gauge your walking stamina and whether interior access to some sites is important to you.