London: Buckingham Palace and Royal London Walking Tour

Experience the Majesty of London’s Royal Highlights with a Guided Walking Tour and Buckingham Palace Entry

If you’re eager to get a closer look at London’s royal side without the hefty price tag, the Buckingham Palace and Royal London Walking Tour offers a practical yet engaging way to do just that. For around $59, you’ll enjoy a 5-hour adventure that combines city sightseeing, expert commentary, and exclusive access to the Palace’s State Rooms. While it’s not a comprehensive all-day royal extravaganza, it strikes a good balance for those interested in royal history, architecture, and tradition.

What I appreciate about this experience is the knowledgeable guide—a person who clearly knows their stuff and makes the stories behind the sites lively and memorable. Plus, the inclusion of a multimedia guide at Buckingham Palace means you’ll get a detailed look inside, making the visit feel more personal and immersive. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the group size—some reviews mention that the walking part can get a bit crowded, so if you’re seeking an intimate experience, this might be something to keep in mind.

Another highlight is the chance to stroll past iconic sites like St James’s Palace and learn about the royal warrants on Jermyn Street—places that many travelers simply pass by without realizing their royal connections. The tour’s mix of walking, sightseeing, and history offers a well-rounded peek behind the scenes of royal London. However, be aware that photography inside Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms is not allowed, which might disappoint those eager to snap pictures of the treasures inside.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert-guided storytelling makes the royal sites come alive, with guides like Paul earning praise for their engaging narratives.
• Entry to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms and gardens offers a rare glimpse into royal life, accessible only during tours like this.
• The walking tour covers key sites, including historic clubs, churches, and Royal Warrant holders, providing context beyond just the Palace.
• Cost-effective value with included multimedia guides and exclusive access, especially considering the high ticket prices for individual Palace visits.
• The tour operates Thursday through Monday, with limited availability from July to September, so booking early is wise.
• Group size and timing can influence your experience—some reviews mention the walk can feel hurried or crowded, especially during peak season.

Exploring London’s Royal Streets and Sites

The tour kicks off outside The King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace, a fitting starting point for a royal-themed day. From there, the guide leads you through Westminster, passing notable landmarks like the Horse Guards, historic clubs, and churches. I love the way the guide weaves stories about King Charles III’s coronation, giving context that enriches the sights. For example, you’ll find out where The Duke of Edinburgh gets his hair cut, and learn about the tradition of cream teas at Fortnum and Mason—details that make London’s royal culture feel tangible.

One of the tour’s strengths is the guide’s knack for sharing quirky facts—like the Queen Mother’s cigarette purchases—that add a humorous touch to the royal narrative. The walking part lasts about two hours, during which you’ll see some of London’s most elegant and historic streets. Many reviewers have mentioned how the guide’s lively commentary kept the walk engaging, with the right amount of detail without being overwhelming.

Visiting Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms

After the walk, you’ll be taken directly to Buckingham Palace for your scheduled entry at 12:30 PM. The experience inside is a highlight—you’ll see 19 State Rooms, lavishly decorated with antique furniture, and masterpieces from artists like Rubens and Rembrandt. The multimedia guide complements your visit, providing insights into the rooms’ history and the artwork.

The Royal Gardens offer a peaceful contrast to the busy city streets—often called a “walled oasis,” it’s the largest private garden in London, home to dozens of bird species and wildflowers. Walking through the garden, you’ll enjoy views of the famous lake, a rare chance to see behind the palace walls.

The Practicalities and Logistics

The tour is priced at about $59, which, considering the inclusion of guided storytelling, entry to the Palace, and the gardens, is quite reasonable. It’s particularly appealing if you’d rather avoid the hassle of booking Palace tickets separately or navigating the complex online reservation systems.

The meeting point is at the Tourist Bus Stop outside The King’s Gallery, close to Victoria and Green Park stations, making it accessible. The tour lasts approximately five hours, so you’ll want to be prepared for some walking and standing.

It’s important to note that the tour runs only from Thursday to Monday, between July and September, which limits flexibility but aligns well with the peak tourist season. Also, photography inside the Palace is not permitted, so you’ll need to enjoy the view, not the camera.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience best suits travelers with an interest in royal London, history, and architecture, who enjoy guided storytelling and unique access. It’s ideal for those who want a structured, informative tour that covers both major sites and lesser-known royal curiosities. The inclusion of the State Rooms makes it appealing to visitors who want an inside look at the Palace without the long queues or high costs of visiting independently.

If you’re a history enthusiast or someone curious about the royal family’s traditions and secrets, this tour can satisfy those interests. However, if you prefer a more intimate or flexible experience, or are traveling with very young children, you might find some of the group aspects less ideal.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a well-organized, reasonably priced introduction to London’s royal sites, this tour offers a balanced mix of walking, storytelling, and exclusive access. The knowledgeable guides and multimedia guides elevate the experience, making it more engaging than a solo visit. Plus, seeing the State Rooms and gardens is a rare treat that adds a special touch to your London trip.

It’s especially valuable if you want to understand the traditions behind the iconic sites and enjoy a leisurely way to explore the city’s royal side. Keep in mind that the tour is a group experience, so if you seek quiet, private visits or more personalized attention, you might consider other options.

Ultimately, this experience offers good value for the price and a chance to see some of London’s most storied landmarks with expert commentary—perfect for those who love history, architecture, or just a good royal story.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old are not recommended, likely due to the walking distance and the formal nature of the sites.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes the guided walking tour, entry to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms, the multimedia guide inside the Palace, and the Royal Gardens visit.

Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?
No, photography inside the State Rooms is not allowed. You can take pictures in the Palace gardens or outdoor areas only.

How long is the walking tour?
The walking portion lasts about two hours, covering significant sites and providing engaging commentary.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking through London’s streets and gardens.

When does the tour operate?
It runs from Thursday to Monday, between July 17 and September 24, with specific start times to check in advance.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside The King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace and concludes at Westminster Abbey.

Is there a chance to see the Changing of the Guard?
While the tour passes by many sites, the actual Changing of the Guard is not guaranteed and depends on the day’s schedule.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your plans.

In summary, this Buckingham Palace and Royal London Walking Tour combines accessible royal sights with informative storytelling and a chance inside the Palace—an experience worth considering for travelers wanting a taste of London’s regal side with good value and authentic charm.