Enter Buckingham Palace & See The Main Westminster Sights Tour

Entering Buckingham Palace and Seeing the Main Westminster Sights Tour: A Deep Dive into London’s Iconic Landmarks

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the heart of London’s royal and political heritage, combining a lively walk through historic sites with exclusive access to Buckingham Palace’s state rooms. With a maximum group size of just 15 people, it feels personal without sacrificing the lively energy you want from a guided experience. Priced at around $103, it’s a solid way to see the city’s highlights while also getting a taste of royal pomp and ceremony—especially appealing on a first visit.

Two things I really appreciate about this tour are the small-group vibe, which makes for a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere, and the expert guides like Conner and Jason, who bring stories and history to life with warmth and insight. The opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and explore the interior with an audio guide makes this experience stand out—something you won’t get on just any sightseeing walk. However, a consideration is that the walking route is quite packed with sights, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a 5-hour jaunt through central London.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Exclusive Access: You get to explore the inside of Buckingham Palace’s state rooms, including Queen Victoria’s Palace exhibition—something many visitors dream about.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Conner and Jason receive high praise for their knowledge and friendly manner, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.
• Ideal for First-Timers: It’s an excellent introduction to London’s most iconic sights, perfect for those new to the city.
• Strategic Viewpoints: The tour includes viewing spots for the Changing of the Guard (on certain days), and photo opportunities at Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.
• Highly Booked in Advance: On average, travelers plan this tour about 2 months ahead—indicating its popularity.
• Affordable Value: For around $103, you receive a comprehensive experience with palace entry and an audio guide, worth considering compared to individual ticket prices.

Starting Point: The Ritz and Green Park

The journey kicks off at The Ritz London, a location that immediately sets an elegant tone for the day. From there, a leisurely stroll through Green Park leads you to Buckingham Palace. I love the way this initial walk gives a taste of London’s refined charm, setting the stage for what’s to come.

Buckingham Palace: The Crown Jewel

Arriving at Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the King, is always a highlight. While the tour doesn’t include the palace’s interior as part of the walking component, you get a ticket to explore 19 state rooms and the beautiful gardens, which is a treat. The guide shares stories about royal traditions, and if you happen to visit on a day when the Changing of the Guard occurs, you’ll get tips on the best vantage points—an experience that many travelers find memorable.

One reviewer, Roger N, mentioned that “Conner was an excellent guide, very knowledgeable, and the portrait of King Charles was a highlight”. The audio guide provided once inside helps you appreciate the opulence and history of the rooms, from royal furniture to masterpieces from the Royal Collection.

Trafalgar Square: The Heart of Political and Artistic London

Next, you’ll see Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery. It’s a lively spot with enough space to appreciate London’s blend of history and modern vibrancy. The guide points out notable buildings and sculptures, making this stop a quick but meaningful photo opportunity.

Horse Guards Parade and St. James Park

Moving on, the group visits Horse Guards Parade and the iconic arch, a favorite for photos. From there, it’s a short walk into St. James Park, where I love the peaceful green space amid the city hustle. The view of Whitehall’s grand buildings and Downing Street offers a peek into the heart of British government. Your guide will share anecdotes about the Prime Minister’s residence, making the history approachable and lively.

The Political and Religious Symbols: Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are perhaps the most instantly recognizable symbols of London. Standing near Parliament Square, you’ll get a sense of the city’s governance and architectural grandeur. The guide highlights the Palace of Westminster’s Gothic style and shares trivia about the clock tower. Seeing Westminster Abbey—where monarchs are crowned and history is embedded in every stone—is equally awe-inspiring. The 20-minute stop allows for photos and quick exploration, with plenty of stories from your guide to enrich the moment.

Final Stop: Inside Buckingham Palace

Post-walking, it’s time to enter Buckingham Palace itself. Your ticket grants access to the 19 royal state rooms and the Queen Victoria Palace exhibition. The audio guide is multilingual and adds depth to the experience, helping you understand the history behind each room’s furnishings and art. Travelers in reviews, like Carolyn S, appreciated staff at the palace being very kind, which enhanced their visit.

Two hours inside the palace is ample time to soak in the grandeur without feeling rushed. The gardens and exhibitions complement the experience, giving you a well-rounded perspective of royal life.

At around $103.22, this tour offers excellent value considering the included palace entry, the guided walk, and the audio guide inside the palace. Comparing the cost to doing these sights separately, it’s quite reasonable, especially given the small group size that fosters interaction and personalized attention.

The tour starts at 10:00 am from The Ritz, a central and accessible location. Since tickets and directions are provided after the walk, you’re free to explore a bit beforehand or just arrive ready for a full day. Remember, the group size is limited to 15, which means you won’t be lost in a sea of travelers.

The tour does not include lunch or transportation, so plan to bring snacks or a water bottle. Also, consider your comfort with walking, as 5 hours includes a fair amount of strolling through central London’s streets and parks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits anyone eager to see London’s most iconic sights with a knowledgeable guide and a small group. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting a structured but rundown. It’s also beneficial for travelers who appreciate a blend of outdoor sightseeing with inside access—the palace’s state rooms are a rare treat.

This tour balances history, royal tradition, and London’s vibrant street life beautifully. The guides are well-reviewed for their expertise and friendliness, and the inclusion of entry to Buckingham Palace elevates it above typical city walks. If you’re after a value-packed, authentic, and well-organized experience in London, this tour is a smart choice. It’s perfect for those who want to tick off the city’s biggest sights without feeling overwhelmed or rushed, and who value engaging storytelling from enthusiastic guides.

While it’s a full day, it’s a rewarding way to connect with London’s royal and political core, making it ideal for first-timers and history enthusiasts alike. Just remember to book well in advance, pack comfortable shoes, and bring a sense of curiosity—you’ll leave feeling like you’ve truly seen the best of London’s crown jewels.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking and some stairs inside Buckingham Palace, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility. The review mentions consideration for a friend using a scooter, so it might be adaptable, but check with the provider for specifics.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 61 days in advance, showing high demand. Booking early ensures availability, especially for the palace access.

Does the tour include transportation to and from the hotel?
No, transportation isn’t included. The meeting point is at The Ritz, which is centrally located and accessible via public transit.

What is included in the ticket price?
The price includes entry to Buckingham Palace, access to the palace gardens and Queen Victoria’s Palace exhibition, and the guided Westminster sightseeing walk.

Are tickets for Buckingham Palace available only on the day of the tour?
No, tickets are pre-arranged as part of the tour package. You won’t need to buy separate tickets or wait in long lines.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak English?
The palace audio guide is multi-language, making the inside visit accessible to non-English speakers. The guide’s commentary during the walk will likely be in English.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins at 10:00 am at The Ritz and lasts around 5 hours, ending at Buckingham Palace, where you explore the palace interior independently afterward.

Do I need to prepare any special clothing or gear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a good bit of strolling. Weather-appropriate attire is wise, especially if rain is forecast.

Is the Changing of the Guard a guaranteed sight?
It’s a limited opportunity and depends on the schedule; your guide will advise on the best viewing spots if it’s happening that day.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring water, a snack if needed, and your camera. The guided walk doesn’t include meals, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers a well-structured and authentic way to see London’s most renowned sites with a knowledgeable guide and exclusive palace access. It suits first-timers, history lovers, and anyone eager for a meaningful day exploring Britain’s royal and political symbols. With small-group intimacy and high reviews, it’s a reliable choice for making your London visit truly special.