Visit Kensington Palace & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour

Discover London’s Icons in Half a Day: A Practical Review of the Kensington and Westminster Tour

If you’re trying to pack a lot into a limited amount of time in London, this combined Kensington Palace and Westminster walking tour could be a solid choice. With a flexible, small-group setup, it promises to hit many of the city’s most recognizable landmarks in around five hours. We appreciate how this tour offers a blend of guided sightseeing and independent exploration, especially with tickets to Kensington Palace included.

What really catches the eye is the comprehensive itinerary—from Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey to Trafalgar Square and the Houses of Parliament. Plus, if you’re a history buff or a royal enthusiast, the chance to see the Changing of the Guard and then explore a royal residence on your own is a perk. A major plus is that the tour is rated highly, with an overall score of 4.5 based on 38 reviews, many praising the guides and the efficient itinerary.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves quite a bit of walking—roughly 3 hours outside—so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on their feet and prepared for weather variations. Also, while the tour kickstarts at a well-known London venue, the end experience at Kensington Palace is independent, with ticketing and directions provided afterward. If you’re hoping for a seamless experience inside the palace or detailed transport instructions, that’s worth considering.

This tour is ideal for time-pressed visitors, history and architecture lovers, and those who enjoy a lively, guided overview of central London’s highlights. If you’re okay with a brisk pace and outdoor explorations, it could be a great way to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed or overly rushed.

Key Points

• Efficient sightseeing: See many iconic landmarks in just about half a day
• Educational guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and humor
• Included tickets: Kensington Palace is part of the package, giving you flexibility
• Walking-intensive: Expect around 3 hours of outdoor strolling, so dress accordingly
• Clear itinerary: From Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey, with plenty of photo ops
• Small group: Max of 15 travelers, making the experience more personal

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard

The tour begins with a walk through Green Park to the Queen’s official residence, Buckingham Palace. Here, your guide will share stories of British royal history and point out the palace’s impressive architecture. On specific days—Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday—you might get lucky and see the world-famous Changing of the Guard. Guides are skilled at finding the best viewing spots, which makes a big difference if you’re hoping to catch the ceremony without fighting the crowds.

Several reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make all the difference. One reviewer mentioned, “Our tour guide, Marc, was fantastic and reminded me of a professor straight out of Harry Potter—so much fun!” That kind of enthusiasm adds a lot to the experience, especially when you’re trying to absorb a quick overview of royal traditions.

Trafalgar Square & Whitehall

Next, you’ll make your way to Trafalgar Square, a lively hub with Nelson’s Column, fountains, and the National Gallery. Here, you get about 20 minutes, just enough for some photo ops or a quick chat about the history of the site. Many reviewers love this stop, with one noting, “It’s such an iconic spot—you can really feel the city’s energy.”

From there, the tour continues to Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall, where you’ll see the famous arch and have a chance to snap some great pictures. The walk along Whitehall includes a peek at Downing Street, the home of British Prime Ministers, which is a favorite for those wanting a taste of political history.

Houses of Parliament & Westminster Abbey

The group gets a substantial stop at Parliament Square, gazing up at the Palace of Westminster and the clock of Big Ben. The guide explains the significance of these buildings, and the view of the London Eye and Churchill Statue adds to the classic London feel. Here, you’ll want to take your time snapping photos and soaking it all in.

The next highlight is Westminster Abbey, a stunning Gothic church with over 1,000 years of history. It’s where British monarchs are crowned and notable figures buried. While the tour doesn’t include inside admission, many reviews praise the exterior and the stories shared from outside. As one reviewer put it, “This is one of Londons most beautiful buildings, and the guide’s commentary made it even more special.”

Kensington Palace & Free Exploration

After a brisk walk through Westminster, the tour concludes at Kensington Palace. Here, guests are given tickets to explore the royal residence independently. The Palace is home to Prince William and family, and the surrounding gardens are free to enjoy—some reviews even suggest skipping inside due to mixed impressions of the inside displays.

The two-hour visit allows plenty of time to wander at your own pace, take photos, or relax in the gardens. Keep in mind, the palace is about a 30-minute journey by public transport, and tickets or directions will be provided at the end of the guided portion.

What’s the Value?

At $116.51 per person, the tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. You’re getting expert guides, a well-organized itinerary, and entry to Kensington Palace, which alone costs extra if booked separately. The reviews show that guides are well-liked for their humor and knowledge, bringing London’s history alive.

However, it’s worth noting that there’s a fair amount of walking—so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, the tour schedule is tight, so if you’re planning other activities afterward, be sure to manage your time well. Some reviews mention feeling rushed, especially when trying to snap photos or get inside specific sights.

Tips for Making the Most

• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid missing the changing of the guard, which happens at 10 a.m. on certain days.
• Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for outdoor weather.
• Bring snacks and water, as lunch isn’t included.
• Use the tickets and directions given to reach Kensington Palace independently, especially if you’re planning more sightseeing afterward.
• Be punctual to avoid missing parts of the tour or the palace visit, as late arrivals have been an issue for some.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for visitors who want a broad overview of London’s most famous landmarks in a manageable half-day. If you’re not keen on long walks or heavy museum visits but still want a knowledgeable guide to fill in the stories behind the sights, this tour hits the spot. It’s also a great option for first-timers who want a snapshot of the city’s royal and political history.

Those who enjoy a lively, engaging guide and don’t mind outdoor walking will find this especially rewarding. However, if you’re a traveler who prefers inside museums or detailed guided tours of specific sites, you might find this a bit surface-level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the small group size and engaging guides can make it suitable for older children. Keep in mind the extensive outdoor walking and the need for patience during sightseeing.

How long is the walking portion?
Expect around 3 hours of outdoor walking, covering multiple landmarks. Comfortable shoes are essential.

Are tickets to Kensington Palace included?
Yes, the tour price includes admission tickets to Kensington Palace, but the guide does not accompany you inside.

Can I join the tour if I don’t arrive on time?
Arriving late might mean missing parts of the tour, including the Changing of the Guard or specific stops. Punctuality is advised.

What is the tour start and end point?
It begins at The Ritz London, 150 Piccadilly, and ends at Kensington Palace Gardens.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point and Kensington Palace is not included. You should plan your travel accordingly.

Is this tour available every day?
The schedule depends on the day of the week and the timing of the Changing of the Guard, which is on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 10 a.m., but subject to change.

How much does the tour cost?
The current price is approximately $116.51 per person, which includes the guided tour and the Kensington Palace tickets.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing. Comfortable shoes are a must due to the walking involved.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, practical way to see London’s highlights in a manageable timeframe. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy guided walks, want to learn from knowledgeable hosts, and appreciate the flexibility of exploring a palace on their own afterward. If you’re looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly way to get a solid introduction to London, it’s worth considering—but don’t forget to plan for the walking and timing!