Royal London Tour with Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace

Royal London Tour with Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace: A Friendly Guide

Thinking about exploring London’s royal sights but short on time? This Royal London Tour combined with afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, all wrapped into about seven hours. It’s especially appealing if you want a guided overview of London’s iconic landmarks without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

What we really like about this experience is its expert Blue Badge guide, who brings the city’s stories to life, and the luxurious afternoon tea that feels like a special treat—an ideal way to unwind after some sightseeing. On the flip side, the price might seem a bit steep for some—around $177 per person—considering that the tour doesn’t include entry fees for Buckingham Palace (which is typical) and the afternoon tea is a standalone experience. Still, the value is clear if you enjoy guided insights and a refined sit-down meal.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a compact, well-rounded introduction to London’s royal and political centers. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate comfort and style, given the high-end lunch spot, and for visitors on a tight schedule who want to maximize their sightseeing without missing the highlights.

Key Points

• Guided experience with a Blue Badge guide ensures informative commentary.
• Quick overview of London’s major royal and parliamentary sites.
• Luxury afternoon tea at The Rubens provides a relaxing and indulgent finish.
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for many.
• Ideal for short visits or those who prefer guided tours over solo wandering.
• Price reflects a combination of guided tour and high-end dining, providing a premium feel.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

An Expert Guide Shows You the Landmarks

The journey begins at Victoria Coach Station at 9:00 am, where your guide—an experienced Blue Badge professional—will lead you through London’s most famous royal and political landmarks. Having a knowledgeable guide is a real benefit; they can tell stories and answer questions, making the experience more engaging than just strolls on your own.

Exploring Westminster’s Historic Heart

Your first stops take you to Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Palace of Westminster. Westminster Abbey, despite its formidable Gothic appearance, is more than just a photo op. It’s a place where British monarchs are crowned and buried, and it’s woven into the nation’s history.

Big Ben, officially known as Elizabeth Tower, is one of London’s most recognizable symbols. The tour will touch on its history and significance, providing context for its nickname and recent renaming.

The Palace of Westminster serves as the meeting place for Parliament, and it’s fascinating to see the seat of British government up close. The guide will help you appreciate the architecture and its role in shaping the UK.

Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

Next, you’ll visit Buckingham Palace, the home and workplace of the monarchy. While the tour doesn’t include entry into the palace, seeing it from the outside and witnessing the Changing of the Guard is a highlight. As one reviewer noted, this ceremony is “the epitome of pomp and pageantry,” offering a glimpse into royal traditions.

Keep in mind that the Changing of the Guard happens on specific days—Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday—and if it’s not scheduled, you’ll see the Guard at Horse Guards Parade instead. The ceremony lasts about 40 minutes, giving plenty of time for photos and soaking in the spectacle.

Strolling Through Historic Whitehall and Trafalgar Square

After the palace, your tour continues along Whitehall Road, the central route that connects many government buildings and notable sites, like 10 Downing Street—the Prime Minister’s residence. While you won’t be able to go inside, the outside view of Number 10 and the surrounding area helps connect the dots of London’s political heart.

Trafalgar Square, with its statues and fountains, offers a lively scene and a chance for a quick pause. Named after Nelson’s victory, it’s a great spot for snapping photos or just people-watching from a bench.

The Tour Wraps Up at 12:00 pm

Your sightseeing wraps up around midday at Victoria Coach Station, leaving you plenty of time to relax or explore more on your own.

An Elegant Finish: Afternoon Tea at The Rubens

From there, you’ll head to The Rubens at the Palace, a 5-star hotel just steps from Buckingham Palace and the Royal Mews. Here, the afternoon tea experience is the perfect way to unwind and indulge after a busy morning.

You’ll enjoy a bright, open setting with panoramic views of the Queen’s stables—a view that adds a touch of royal charm. The menu features assorted sandwiches, freshly-made pastries, and traditional scones with clotted cream and fruit preserves.

Guests frequently mention the excellent service and delicious food. One reviewer called the tea “fantastic,” highlighting the sumptuous finger sandwiches and pastries. The experience isn’t rushed, giving you a chance to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the moment.

Additional Details About the Tea

The afternoon tea lasts around four hours, providing a leisurely break after the tour. It’s worth noting that alcoholic beverages like champagne are not included, but house cocktails and plenty of tea and coffee are available.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Booking ahead is recommended, as this tour is quite popular—often booked around 50 days in advance.
• The price per person is around $177, which covers the guided tour, coach transport, and the afternoon tea, making it good value if you enjoy guided experiences and fine dining.
• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, so it’s suitable for many travelers.
• You won’t need to worry about transportation during the tour—Wi-Fi and USB charging are available on the coach, making it easy to stay connected.
• The tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so plan your transportation to Victoria Coach Station accordingly.

What the Reviews Say

While only four reviews are available, they tell a consistent story of satisfaction. One guest called it “outstanding,” praising the magnificent afternoon tea and the fantastic pastries. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views throughout the day.

A common theme is the value of having an expert guide who makes the stories of London’s landmarks come alive, and the relaxing tea experience that provides a perfect end to the sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative way to see London’s royal and political sites, this tour hits the mark. The combination of a guided overview and a luxurious afternoon tea makes it a memorable, comfortable way to spend a day.

It’s especially suited for visitors on a tight schedule who want to tick off major sights without the hassle of navigating alone. The friendly, knowledgeable guide adds a lot of value, and the upscale setting for the tea elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

However, if you’re a history buff craving in-depth access or want to explore inside Buckingham Palace, this tour might not be sufficient. It’s also important to consider the cost, as it’s a premium experience, but one that many find worthwhile for the quality and comfort.

FAQ

Does the tour include entry into Buckingham Palace?
No, the tour does not include access inside Buckingham Palace. You’ll see it from the outside and watch the Changing of the Guard.

What landmarks are covered during the tour?
You’ll visit Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, 10 Downing Street, Whitehall, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace (exterior), and the Changing of the Guard.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users or strollers?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it inclusive for many travelers.

What is the duration of the afternoon tea?
The tea experience lasts about four hours, starting right after the tour at around 12:00 pm.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 50 days ahead, as the tour is quite popular.

Does the price include additional costs like entry fees or beverages?
No, the price covers the guided tour, coach transport, and the afternoon tea. Entry to Buckingham Palace is not included, and champagne is an extra.

Can I join this tour if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, dietary requirements like vegetarian, vegan, halal, or gluten-free options can be accommodated if you inform the provider at least 48 hours in advance.

What’s the meeting point and start time?
The tour starts at Victoria Coach Station at 9:00 am and ends at The Rubens at the Palace, which is about a five-minute walk from Victoria Station.

In summary, this combined guided tour and afternoon tea offers a charming way to experience London’s regal side with comfort and style. It’s perfect for those who want a structured, insightful day and enjoy a touch of luxury at the end. If you’re after a relaxed, well-rounded taste of London’s royal and political heart, this tour could be just what you need.