Buckingham Palace & Crown Jewels of London Tour

If you’re planning to visit London and want a comprehensive look at some of its most famous landmarks without the hassle of organizing each stop yourself, this Buckingham Palace & Crown Jewels of London Tour from Evan Evans Tours could be just what you need. It promises a full day of exploring royal palaces, historic cathedrals, and the legendary Tower of London, capped off with a relaxing cruise along the Thames.

What really catches our eye about this experience is how it combines key highlights into one seamless journey—visiting Buckingham Palace to see the State Rooms, marveling at the Crown Jewels, exploring St. Paul’s Cathedral, and getting a close-up look at the Tower of London. Plus, the river cruise offers a different perspective of the city that many visitors find memorable. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the day is packed, so it’s not for those who prefer a leisurely pace or want extra downtime.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a structured, informative day covering London’s must-see landmarks, especially if they are keen on history, architecture, and iconic sights. It also works well for first-timers who want a well-rounded introduction to the city without worrying about logistics. However, be prepared for a busy schedule, and keep in mind that you’ll need to do some walking and navigate security at Buckingham Palace.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines palace visits, cathedral exploration, the Tower of London, and river cruise.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed commentary.
• Convenience: Transportation and entry fees are included; just show up and enjoy.
• Time efficiency: Fits a lot into one day—ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Cost analysis: While $227.64 per person might seem steep, the ticket price covers several major attractions.
• Limited flexibility: The schedule is tight, so it’s not ideal for those wanting a slower-paced day or personalized time at each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from this Tour

We loved that this tour offers a balanced mix of guided commentary and free time. You’ll start your day at the Kings Gallery outside Buckingham Palace, then proceed to enter the Palace itself (subject to availability) to see the elegant State Rooms. This is a major highlight, especially for those interested in royal interiors and art collections. The opportunity to walk through the very heart of royal tradition is quite special, though do remember that security checks are strict, and large bags are not permitted.

After the palace, the tour moves on to the St. Paul’s Cathedral—a stunning piece of architecture that stands proudly in the London skyline. You’ll get to explore the interior, admire the artwork and the famous stone ceiling from the 15th century, and learn about its significance. Keep in mind, the cathedral is closed on Sundays and during special events, so if you’re visiting then, the guide will adjust the itinerary accordingly.

Next, the Tower of London awaits. Here, you’ll step into a fortress that’s seen centuries of royal drama, wars, and executions. The highlight is undoubtedly viewing the Crown Jewels, which are truly magnificent and worth the visit alone. As one reviewer noted, “Seeing the Crown Jewels was breathtaking—I’ve never seen such priceless pieces in real life.” Be aware that the White Tower involves some stairs and no disabled access currently, so it might be challenging for guests with mobility issues.

The afternoon part of the tour includes a boat cruise along the Thames, a relaxing way to take in London’s skyline from the water. The cruise offers a fresh, scenic perspective of landmarks like the Tower Bridge and the South Bank. You can choose to take this cruise on another day if you prefer or finish the tour at Westminster Pier, but it’s included in the package for those who want the full experience.

The entire day is supported by a guest service assistant in the morning and an expert guide in the afternoon, ensuring you get informative commentary and help when needed. The coach ride between sites is comfortable, equipped with Wi-Fi and USB charging, which is a nice touch for staying connected or catching up on photos.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Start at The King’s Gallery
Your day begins near Buckingham Palace, where a friendly guest service assistant will meet you. The atmosphere here is quite regal, and it’s a prime spot to start soaking in the palace’s grandeur. The walk from Victoria Station is about ten minutes, making it accessible even if you arrive on foot or via public transport.

Visit Buckingham Palace
The highlight for many is stepping into the State Rooms—opulent, art-filled halls that showcase the monarchy’s wealth. While the experience can be somewhat rushed, it’s a rare chance to see the rooms open to the public, as the Palace isn’t always accessible. The security measures are strict but professional, and you’ll get a chance to appreciate the palace’s history from your guide’s commentary.

St Paul’s Cathedral
Next, you’ll visit St. Paul’s, one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Inside, the atmosphere is hushed and awe-inspiring. The intricate stonework, the massive dome, and the historical significance add to the experience. During the visit, your guide will highlight notable features, like the tombs of monarchs inside and the cathedral’s architectural secrets.

The Tower of London and Crown Jewels
The Tower is where history truly comes alive. As you walk through the ancient walls, you’ll hear stories of royal intrigue, imprisonment, and executions. The Crown Jewels are displayed in a secure vault, and the sheer brilliance of the crowns, scepters, and orbs makes for a memorable sight. Some reviews mention that the security process at the Tower is straightforward but can take a few minutes—so be patient.

River Thames Cruise
Finally, the river cruise caps off the day with a relaxing boat ride. It’s a peaceful way to see London from a different angle, with views of iconic bridges and buildings. The cruise isn’t just about scenery; it’s a calming, enjoyable experience that balances out the busy sightseeing.

End at Westminster Pier
The tour concludes here, putting you conveniently near the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and other central sights, so you can continue exploring or head back to your accommodations.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $227.64, this tour is a significant investment, but it’s packed with major sights and guided expertise. When you consider that it includes entry to Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, plus a river cruise, it does offer value for those who prefer an organized approach. For first-timers or those short on time, it’s a time-efficient way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of navigating tickets and transportation on your own.

However, be mindful that this tour is quite full-day, running approximately 8 hours, so it might not suit travelers looking for a leisurely pace or wanting to spend more time at each site. Also, since food and drinks are not included, you’ll need to budget for meals or bring snacks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day covering London’s top attractions without the stress of planning each detail. It’s suitable for first-time visitors, history buffs, and those eager to see the royal side of London with minimal fuss. If you’re someone who enjoys learning from experts and appreciates scenic views from the river, you’ll find this tour both enjoyable and informative.

But if you prefer flexibility, sleeping in, or a more relaxed approach, you might find this schedule a little too packed. Also, if you have mobility issues, check the specifics about access at the Tower of London.

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FAQ

Is transportation between the sites included?
Yes, transportation on the superior coach is included for the afternoon part of the tour, and the day starts with assistance at Buckingham Palace. However, the transfer between Buckingham Palace and the meeting point at 258 Vauxhall Road is about a 10-15 minute walk, so plan accordingly.

Can I take the river cruise on a different day?
Yes, you can opt to take the cruise on another day and finish the tour at the Tower of London instead of Westminster Pier, but be sure to check the cruise ticket’s validity with the guide.

What should I know about security at Buckingham Palace?
There will be an airport-style security check, and larger bags are not permitted. Arrive early, at 9:15 AM, to ensure smooth entry.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify, but given the nature of the sites and walking involved, it’s probably best suited for older children or teenagers who can handle a busy day of sightseeing.

What happens if St. Paul’s Cathedral is closed?
If it’s closed for a special event or on Sundays, the guide will adjust the itinerary, possibly spending more time at the Tower of London and taking photos outside St. Paul’s instead.

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

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility if your travel plans change.

Is there a limit to group size?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour is organized with a guest service assistant and an expert guide, suggesting it’s designed to keep groups manageable for a better experience.

Final Thoughts

This Buckingham Palace & Crown Jewels of London Tour offers a well-rounded way to see some of London’s most iconic sights in one day. It’s particularly valuable for first-time visitors eager to tick off key landmarks with expert guidance. The combination of palace interiors, historic cathedral, the Tower’s legendary fortress, and scenic Thames cruise makes for a full, memorable experience.

That said, it’s a pretty packed schedule, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to linger longer at certain sites, you might want to consider alternative options or building extra time into your trip. The tour’s price reflects its inclusivity of major attractions, guided commentary, and comfortable transport—making it a worthwhile choice for travelers who want an organized, seamless introduction to London’s royal and historic heart.

If you’re a history lover, a first-timer, or simply want a structured way to see the essentials, this tour fits the bill nicely. Just pack comfortable shoes, be ready for security checks, and bring your curiosity along—there’s a lot to discover in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: