Full Royal Tour: Royal London & Buckingham Palace Tour

Exploring London’s royal sites can be quite the experience, especially with a tour that combines on-foot walks, expert guides, and rare access to Buckingham Palace. The Full Royal Tour: Royal London & Buckingham Palace Tour offers a comprehensive look at the city’s most iconic royal landmarks in about five hours, making it a fantastic option for those eager to see a lot without the stress of navigating on their own. Priced at around $103, it is a well-rounded introduction for first-timers, history lovers, or anyone wanting a deeper connection to the monarchy through a guided experience.

What I particularly appreciate about this tour is the small group size, which helps foster a more personal, engaging atmosphere—you’re more likely to ask questions and get tailored insights from your guide. Plus, the walking format ensures you get a true feel for London’s streets and neighborhoods, avoiding the hassle of parking or crowded buses. Another big plus is the rare inside access to Buckingham Palace, where you can explore 19 state rooms filled with royal furniture and artwork, plus enjoy the royal gardens and Queen Victoria’s Palace exhibition. Many reviews sing the praises of guides like Greg, who are noted for their enthusiasm and deep knowledge—adding a layer of authenticity to the sightseeing.

A potential consideration is the schedule and clarity of communication—some travelers in reviews found the details on Buckingham Palace tour times a bit confusing, and there was an instance of running over the schedule. It’s worth noting that the guide doesn’t join you inside Buckingham Palace; you’ll receive tickets and instructions to explore the interior independently, accompanied by an audio guide. If you’re someone who prefers a fully narrated, escorted experience inside the Palace, this might not fully satisfy. Still, for many, the chance to walk through the royal rooms and gardens is a highlight that outweighs this minor inconvenience.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to Buckingham Palace‘s interior, including 19 state rooms and beautiful gardens, adds a rare and memorable layer to your visit.
• The small tour group offers an intimate setting, with personalized attention and more opportunities to ask questions.
• Located in central London, the tour starts at The Ritz and covers a wide array of royal and historic landmarks, making it a great overview of the city’s regal side.
• Walking between sites allows you to absorb London’s ambiance firsthand and avoid parking hassles.
• The expert guides, like Greg, are praised for making history engaging and involving everyone, enhancing the experience.
• The ticket price offers good value—covering major sights, a detailed audio guide at Buckingham Palace, and the guide’s insights—especially for those interested in royal history.

Full Review: An In-Depth Look at the Royal London & Buckingham Palace Tour

Introduction and First Impressions

Having reviewed this tour, I find it to be a thoughtfully curated experience that balances history, personal interaction, and practicality. Starting at The Ritz London, the meeting point is central and easily accessible via public transportation—an important detail when planning your day. The price point of $102.87 per person might seem high at first glance, but it includes entrance tickets to Buckingham Palace, guided commentary, and the opportunity to explore key royal sights—making it a solid value considering London’s premium. The tour lasts approximately five hours, which is enough time to see a lot without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Two aspects really shine. First, the inside access to Buckingham Palace. Unlike many visits to London that only offer exterior views, this tour provides a rare opportunity to explore 19 state rooms full of royal furniture and art, along with the lush gardens and Queen Victoria’s Palace exhibition. This glimpse into the private side of monarchy is something most visitors don’t get to experience independently. Reviewers like Martin W. mention that their guide “got everyone involved,” making the experience lively and memorable, emphasizing how knowledgeable guides like Greg go above and beyond to share fascinating stories.

Second, the tour’s small group size (max 15 travelers) makes the experience more personal. Kathleen M. pointed out that while the guide did his best, some parts felt a little disjointed, particularly around Buckingham Palace’s timings. However, the advance ticketing system and the audio guide provided at the Palace help mitigate confusion. You’re free to explore the rooms at your own pace, which can be a huge plus if you prefer to absorb details quietly or revisit certain exhibits.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Experience

Stop 1: Buckingham Palace
The tour begins after a pleasant stroll through Green Park, leading you to the iconic home of the monarchy. Your guide will share stories of royal traditions and history as you admire the palace façade. If you’re there on the right day, you’ll also see the famous Changing of the Guard—a spectacle that many find surprisingly moving, especially with a guide pointing out the history and ceremony behind it. The included admission ticket grants you entry to explore 19 magnificent state rooms, filled with regal furniture, art, and Queen Victoria memorabilia. The two-hour deep dive into the palace is often the highlight for visitors, and many note the quality of the audio guide that enhances the visit.

Stops 2-6: Walking Tour around Central London
From Buckingham, you’ll walk along Royal Mall, then visit Trafalgar Square, where Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery stand as testament to London’s artistic and military history. The Horse Guards Parade offers a perfect photo op with its grand arch and official mounted guards, while Whitehall —home to Downing Street—connects you to political history. The Houses of Parliament, with its mighty Big Ben, dominate Parliament Square, providing classic London vistas. Lastly, Westminster Abbey invites you into one of the city’s most iconic religious buildings, where British monarchs have been crowned for over a thousand years.

Stop 7: Buckingham Palace (again)
After the walk, you return to Buckingham Palace for your self-guided exploration with the audio device. Many reviews highlight that the interior tour is genuinely immersive, filled with royal furnishings, artwork, and the lush gardens. Megan G. appreciated that the experience “was made special by the guide, Greg,” who kept everyone engaged and shared detailed knowledge.

Practical Considerations

Since hotel pick-up and drop-off aren’t included, travelers should plan to meet at The Ritz or choose a nearby spot. The tour’s duration and pacing are designed to give you a broad overview—great for first-time visitors but perhaps a little rushed for those seeking a more leisurely pace inside each site. The max group of 15 means less crowding and a more relaxed atmosphere, but also that bookings should be made well in advance—most travelers book about three and a half months ahead, indicating its popularity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a fan of royal history or want a well-organized overview of London’s most famous sites, this tour hits the mark. It suits those who appreciate small-group experiences and prefer walking over bus rides. It’s especially ideal if you’re interested in inside access to Buckingham Palace, as well as the chance to learn from a guide who can answer questions and share stories along the way.

Who Might Find It Less Appealing?

If you’re after a fully narrated, escorted inside palace experience or prefer not to walk between sites, you might want to consider other options. Some reviews mention that the guide wasn’t always perfectly clear about the palace timings, so if you’re a stickler for details, double-check the schedule. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues, the walking might be demanding.

The Sum Up

The Full Royal Tour: Royal London & Buckingham Palace Tour is a winner for travelers wanting a blend of history, authentic access, and efficient sightseeing. The combination of guided walking, rare interior visits, and familiar landmarks makes it a smart choice for first-time visitors and royal enthusiasts alike. The tour’s small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the knowledgeable guides like Greg bring history to life with enthusiasm and clarity.

Priced at around $103, the tour offers good value for those eager to see London’s key royal sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s particularly beneficial for travelers who want insider insights and high-quality access to the interior of Buckingham Palace—something that elevates this tour from a standard sightseeing walk to a memorable, meaningful experience.

If you’re looking for a balanced, engaging way to explore London’s royal heritage, this tour will deliver—and leave you with stories to tell long after you’ve left the city.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The walking portion of the tour is about five hours, including time spent inside Buckingham Palace and exploring major landmarks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Ritz London, 150 Piccadilly, and ends near Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA.

Is the inside tour of Buckingham Palace guided?
No, guides provide tickets and directions. You’ll use an audio guide to explore 19 state rooms and the gardens at your own pace.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers entrance to Buckingham Palace, the small-group guide, access to 15+ royal sights, and an audio guide at the Palace.

What’s not included?
Snacks, hotel pick-up, and drop-off are not included—so plan to meet the group at The Ritz and explore on your own or afterward.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard?
Yes, if your visit coincides with the schedule, your guide will take you to the best spot to watch this iconic ceremony.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; the tour is suitable for anyone able to walk and stand for a few hours.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 108 days ahead, as the tour is popular and fills quickly.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely—many stops, especially outside Buckingham Palace and Westminster, offer fantastic photo opportunities.

This tour balances depth and convenience, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a vivid, authentic London royal experience without sacrificing comfort or insider knowledge.