Inside Buckingham Palace & See The Westminster Sights Tour

If you’re planning a trip to London and want to soak in some of its most famous landmarks, this tour promises a rich experience. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve researched it thoroughly and can tell you it’s designed for those who enjoy a well-organized, informative stroll through the heart of the city’s highlights—plus a peek inside Buckingham Palace’s state rooms.

What caught my eye? First, the balanced combination of sightseeing and insider access—you get to see Westminster’s best-known sights and then step inside the Queen’s residence. Second, the small group setting and lively local guide often make the experience more personal and engaging.

A possible consideration is the timing: Buckingham Palace’s interior is only open to visitors from mid-July to late September, so if you’re visiting outside those months, you’ll only see the exterior and gardens. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of London’s royal and political symbols, with enough flexibility to enjoy a guided walk plus a privileged look inside the palace.

Key Points

• Inside Buckingham Palace: Access to 19 state rooms filled with royal furniture and art.
• Westminster Highlights: Iconic sights like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Parliament Square, and Downing Street.
• Changing of the Guard: Watch this famous ceremony (on specific days) in real-time.
• Small Group Dynamics: Enjoy a more personalized experience with a fun local guide.
• Royal Gardens & Queen Victoria’s Palace: Explore lush gardens and a special exhibition.
• Flexible Options: Book now with free cancellation and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Overall Experience

This tour offers a solid way to tick off London’s must-see sights without feeling overwhelmed. It’s particularly appealing because it combines the best of guided sightseeing with exclusive access—an inside look at the state rooms of Buckingham Palace—plus a walk through Westminster’s most recognizable landmarks.

The tour starts outside the Ritz London, a recognizable landmark, setting an elegant tone. The guide then leads you through a 3-hour walking tour, starting at Green Park and moving through famous sites like Trafalgar Square, Horse Guards Parade, and Downing Street. These stops are well-chosen, not just for their beauty but for their symbolic significance in British life.

The highlight for many is the visit to Buckingham Palace. You’ll spend around two hours here, which is enough time to soak in the grandeur of the state rooms and gardens. The inclusion of an audio guide enhances the experience, allowing you to absorb details at your own pace.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting outside The Ritz: This prime location makes it easy to meet your guide and get the tour rolling. A quick introduction and some background make the walk through Westminster feel more meaningful.

Buckingham Palace (first stop): As the official residence of the Royal Family, it’s a sight that needs no introduction. Watching the Changing of the Guard (on selected days) adds a vibrant, ceremonial touch, though keep in mind it only happens on Mon, Wed, Fri, and Sun at 10 am, and might be canceled due to weather.

Sightseeing stops: Trafalgar Square and Whitehall’s Horse Guards Parade are just brief pauses, but they give you great photo ops and a sense of London’s historic crossroads. Strolling past Downing Street and Parliament Square, you’ll get a good overview of Britain’s political hub.

Westminster Abbey: A quick approach allows you to appreciate its architecture and importance, even if not entering. It’s an iconic part of London’s skyline and history.

Inside Buckingham Palace: The real treat! The tour grants access to 19 stunning state rooms filled with royal furniture and masterpieces. The gardens are also open, providing a peaceful contrast to the bustling city.

Queen Victoria’s Palace Exhibition: If you’re interested in royal memorabilia, this exhibition adds an extra layer of insight into Queen Victoria’s era and the monarchy’s history.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price of about $101.02 per person, you get comprehensive access to the palace’s interior, gardens, and the Queen Victoria exhibition. Plus, the guided walk through Westminster makes the entire experience not just about viewing but understanding the context of these landmarks.

However, it’s important to note what isn’t included: transportation to and from your hotel, lunch, and drinks. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickups, so you’ll need to plan your own way to the starting point. Bringing some snacks and water is advisable since you’ll be walking for hours.

The small group size is a major plus, making it easier to ask questions, get personalized attention, and move at a relaxed pace. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful touch for visitors with mobility needs.

The Practical Side

Starting outside the Ritz means you’ll want to arrive on time, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The tour lasts around 5 hours, including walking and sightseeing, so comfortable shoes are a must. An umbrella is recommended, given London’s unpredictable weather, and don’t forget your camera—there are plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Booking with a flexible reservation policy (free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand) offers peace of mind, especially if plans change. The tour operates with live English-speaking guides, who are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

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The Value Proposition

While $101 might seem a bit steep for some, keep in mind that it covers a lot: a detailed guided walking tour, access to the palace’s interior, gardens, and a special exhibition, plus the benefit of skipping the lines. For history buffs, royal enthusiasts, or first-time visitors, this combination can feel like a well-rounded introduction to London’s core symbols.

Some reviewers mention the Guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude—it’s clear they enhance the experience considerably. The views of iconic sights like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey from the walk are striking, and the inside access to Buckingham Palace is a rare treat.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Westminster and Buckingham Palace, especially those interested in royal history and architecture. It’s a good pick for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of London’s most famous landmarks, all in one go.

If you prefer skipping guided tours and exploring on your own, or if your interest in royal interiors isn’t high, you might find this tour a bit structured. But for a balanced mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and insider access, it hits many marks.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s mainly geared toward adults, children who are comfortable walking for several hours and interested in history may enjoy it. Keep in mind, the focus is on the sights and interiors; there aren’t specific activities for kids.

Do I need to bring anything specific?
Comfortable shoes are essential. An umbrella is wise, given London’s weather, and bringing a camera for photos is highly recommended. You might also want to carry some snacks or drinks, as lunch isn’t included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside The Ritz London, next to two red telephone boxes and souvenir stands, near Green Park Underground station. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your itinerary shifts.

Is there any extra cost I should be aware of?
No hidden costs. The ticket includes entry to Buckingham Palace, the gardens, and the Queen Victoria exhibition. Transport and meals are not included.

What if the Changing of the Guard is canceled?
The ceremony only takes place on specific days and is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll still see the exterior of Buckingham Palace and enjoy the walk around Westminster.

Is the interior of Buckingham Palace accessible if I visit outside July-September?
No, the inside is only open from mid-July to late September. Outside of those months, you’ll only see the palace from the outside and enjoy the gardens.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-structured, insightful way to experience London’s most iconic sights along with a peek inside the regal world of Buckingham Palace. The combination of a guided walk, skip-the-line access, and comprehensive storytelling makes it appealing for anyone wanting a clear, enjoyable introduction to the city’s heart.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, and those eager to see the royal and political symbols of London with minimal fuss. The small group size and lively guides are often praised for making the experience more engaging and personal, which adds real value.

If your trip aligns with the palace’s open months and you’re comfortable with a full-day outing, this experience can be a highlight of your trip. Just remember, packing comfortable shoes and a camera will help you make the most of it. Overall, it’s a practical, enjoyable way to see London’s best in a single day—worth considering if you want an authentic, memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: