Changing of the Guard & Royal Food Tour with 10+ Tastings

Experience the Royal Charm and Culinary Delights of London in One Tour

If you’re fascinated by the British royal family and enjoy sampling fine foods, this Changing of the Guard & Royal Food Tour with over 10 tastings is a clever way to combine London’s iconic traditions with its culinary scene. Priced at about $137 per person, it’s designed for a small group—maximizing personalized attention and insight—making it a perfect option for those who want more than just a quick sightseeing pass.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it starts with the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, with your guide helping you catch all the colorful details and providing fascinating tidbits about the event’s history. Plus, the tour shifts seamlessly from royal pageantry to the tastings at historic venues, giving you an authentic taste of London’s regal food culture. Another standout? The surprise afternoon tea box at the end, which offers a delightful ending to your royal adventure.

However, one consideration is the tour’s duration—about 3 to 4 hours—which means you’ll want to be prepared for a fair amount of walking and standing, especially during the guard ceremony and visits to several historic sites. Also, since the tour is limited to 10 travelers, it’s a cozy, intimate experience, but booking well in advance (an average of 85 days!) is wise to secure your spot.

Key points / Takeaways

• Exclusive Access to Royal Warrant-Holders: The tour visits official suppliers to the Royal Household, offering a glimpse into the foods and drinks enjoyed by the monarchy.
• Expert Guide: Dan, the guide praised in reviews, combines humor and extensive knowledge, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Prime London Sights & Architecture: Stops include Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace, Fortnum & Mason, and The Ritz—each with its own story and style.
• Tastings That Matter: The food samples aren’t just snacks—they’re historic, quality items like Fortnum & Mason’s traditional treats, making each bite a part of London’s royal story.
• Unforgettable Ending: The surprise afternoon tea box at The Ritz adds a refined, memorable touch to the experience.
• Ideal for Food and Royal Fans: Recognized as a top-rated experience, it’s especially suited for those interested in the monarchy’s culinary connections and London’s architecture.

While I’ve not personally taken this particular tour, the descriptions and reviews paint a compelling picture. Combining the spectacle of the Changing of the Guard with exclusive food tastings is a rare find—something that appeals to both history lovers and foodies. This tour offers an engaging way to see London’s iconic sights while tasting what the royal household might nibble on, all in a relaxed, small-group setting.

The Changing of the Guard: A Royal Tradition

The tour kicks off at Piccadilly Circus, an energetic hub and perfect for snapping that classic London shot. From there, you’ll move to Buckingham Palace, where your guide will help you appreciate the pomp and ceremony of the Changing of the Guard. This event, which lasts about an hour, is a visual feast of uniformed soldiers, precise drills, and centuries-old pageantry. Your guide shares fun facts—like the origins of the ceremony and how it’s evolved—making it more than just a photograph opportunity.

Several reviews mention the guide, Dan, as an invaluable part of the experience. His humor and extensive knowledge make both the history and the food tastings more engaging. Eleanor_D described him as “an incredible tour guide,” emphasizing how he showed her family some of England’s famous sights while providing fantastic cuisine insights.

Visiting Historic Food & Drink Venues

After the guard ceremony, the tour proceeds to Fortnum & Mason, a London icon for over 150 years. Here, you’ll taste a historic snack that’s been feeding travelers and locals alike for generations. It’s not just about the food but about experiencing a piece of London’s royal shopping tradition. The atmosphere at Fortnum’s is elegant yet approachable, and sampling their renowned treats offers insight into the luxury culinary standards the royal household upholds.

Next stop is The Ritz London—not just a grand hotel but a symbol of refined British taste. The tour concludes here with a surprise afternoon tea box, a lovely touch that offers a taste of the tradition without having to reserve a separate meal. As the review notes, this isn’t the full Ritz afternoon tea, which you’d need to book separately, but it’s a charming, convenient takeaway that keeps the royal flavor going.

The Significance of Official Royal Suppliers

Visiting Royal Warrant-holder establishments adds a special dimension to this tour. These venues have been trusted suppliers to the Royal Household for years, meaning their products meet strict quality standards. The visit to Fortnum & Mason, in particular, offers a peek into the royal shopping list—think high-quality teas, biscuits, and confections that are fit for kings and queens.

Duration, Logistics, and Value

Spanning approximately 3 to 4 hours, the tour is well-paced, balancing sightseeing with tastings. The small group size (up to 10 people) enhances the experience, allowing for more personal interaction with your guide and easier navigation through crowded spots. The tour’s price, at about $137, reflects the inclusion of all food and drink samples, plus the guided experience. Considering the quality of venues and the exclusive insight into royal suppliers, many find it offers good value—especially for those who want to combine sightseeing, history, and culinary delights in one outing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those interested in the royal family, British traditions, or fine foods. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling and insider tips and prefer a small, intimate group rather than large buses or self-guided wandering. If you’re a foodie eager to explore London’s historic food venues, or a culture seeker curious about royal customs, you’ll find plenty to love.

In sum, this Changing of the Guard & Royal Food Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging look at London through the lens of its regal traditions and culinary excellence. The guide’s knowledge, especially Dan’s humor, heightens the enjoyment, making history accessible and fun. The stops at Fortnum & Mason and The Ritz reveal the high standards of royal-approved foods, adding flavor and context—literally—to your visit.

The highlight for many is the seamless blend of spectacular sights, authentic foods, and insider stories. The surprise afternoon tea box provides a charming, tangible souvenir of a day spent exploring the royal and culinary side of London. It’s a great choice for those who want to do more than just see the sights—who want to taste, learn, and experience.

This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about savoring London’s regal essence in a way that’s informal, informative, and memorable. Perfect for first-time visitors, foodies, or anyone eager to see a different side of London beyond the usual tourist haunts.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing, especially during the changing of the guard and visits to historic venues. If you have mobility concerns, it’s best to contact the provider directly for specifics.

What is included in the price?
All food and drink samples are included, along with the guided experience. You will receive a surprise afternoon tea box at The Ritz, but tips and hotel transfers are not included.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 85 days ahead, so it’s wise to reserve early to secure your spot, especially during peak travel times.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Lillywhites, 24-36 Regent Street, and concludes near Green Park Underground station. The start time is 9:45 am.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, but the walking and standing involved might be less suitable for very young children or those with specific health needs. It’s best to assess based on your group’s comfort level.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start date, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this tour offers a smart blend of London’s royal spectacle, historic shopping, and high-quality food tastings. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a relaxed, engaging, and flavorful day in London, with knowledgeable guides and a small-group atmosphere. Whether you’re new to London or a seasoned visitor, it’s a memorable way to see the city’s regal heart with a delicious twist.