Visitors to London won’t want to miss the Royal London Sightseeing Tour and Thames River Cruise. This immersive half-day experience showcases the city’s most iconic landmarks, from Kensington Palace to Big Ben. Guided by a knowledgeable Blue Badge expert, the tour includes the Changing of the Guard ceremony and a scenic one-way cruise along the Thames, providing stunning views of historical sites like the London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral. With convenient meeting points and flexible booking, it’s an engaging way to explore London’s rich history. But the real question is, what other hidden gems might this tour uncover?
Key Points
- Comprehensive half-day tour exploring London’s iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square.
- Guided by a knowledgeable Blue Badge guide with live audio commentary.
- Features a one-way Thames River cruise offering unique skyline perspectives.
- Includes the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a key highlight of the tour.
- Convenient package with gratuities and access to major attractions included.
Tour Overview
The Royal London Sightseeing Tour and Thames River Cruise offers visitors a comprehensive half-day exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and scenic waterways.
This tour starts at 9:00 AM from the Victoria Coach Station, taking travelers on a journey through London’s most famous sights. Led by a knowledgeable Blue Badge guide, the tour includes visits to Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Following the coach tour, you will enjoy a one-way Thames River cruise, offering stunning views of the London Eye, Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
With audio commentary throughout, this tour provides an engaging and informative experience for visitors.
Itinerary Highlights
The Royal London Sightseeing Tour and Thames River Cruise offers an array of captivating highlights that showcase the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Travelers embark on a morning coach tour led by a knowledgeable Blue Badge guide, exploring renowned sites such as Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Trafalgar Square.
A key highlight of the tour is witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place at either Buckingham Palace or the Horse Guards Parade.
After the coach tour, guests enjoy a one-way Thames River cruise, providing a unique perspective of London’s skyline, including the London Eye, Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Throughout the experience, travelers benefit from live audio commentary, offering historical insights and context.
Tour Inclusions
The Royal London Sightseeing Tour and Thames River Cruise includes an expert guide and superior coach with WiFi and USB charging, allowing travelers to stay connected throughout the experience.
Plus, the tour features the Changing of the Guard ceremony at either Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade, as well as a one-way Thames River cruise ticket to witness London’s iconic landmarks from the water.
Gratuities and hotel pick-up/drop-off are also included, providing a comprehensive and convenient sightseeing package.
The tour includes:
- Expert guide and superior coach with WiFi and USB charging
- Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade
- Thames River cruise ticket
- Gratuities and hotel pick-up/drop-off
Additional Information
Travelers should inform the tour operator in advance if they are bringing a wheelchair, as the tour is not wheelchair accessible. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is scheduled on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. If it is canceled, an alternative viewing location at the Horse Guards Parade will be provided. For the included Thames River cruise, passengers must make their own way to either Tower Pier or Westminster Pier, as no transfer is provided.
| Accessibility | Changing of the Guard | River Cruise |
|---|---|---|
| Tour not wheelchair accessible | Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday | Passengers must reach piers themselves |
| Inform operator if bringing wheelchair | Alternative at Horse Guards if canceled | No transfer provided |
Traveler Feedback
Many travelers praised the knowledgeable guides and efficient booking process, though some expressed disappointment regarding unclear directions to the cruise dock and limited time for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Specific commendation was given for the scenic views and informative commentary during the included river cruise, though issues with scheduling the cruise impacted overall satisfaction for some.
Travelers highlighted the expertise of the Blue Badge guides, who provided live commentary for historical insights.
The smooth booking process was also noted as a positive aspect of the tour experience.
However, some visitors felt the directions to the river cruise departure point could have been clearer.
Plus, a few guests wished they’d had more time to witness the full Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Tour Duration and Schedule
This half-day tour runs from 9:00 AM, with the meeting point at Victoria Coach Station.
Participants can expect to conclude the experience at Evan Evans Tours around the middle of the afternoon.
The tour lasts approximately 4-5 hours, including the 40-45 minute Thames River cruise.
Guests should plan their schedules accordingly, as the Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to the Royal Family’s schedule and may be canceled or relocated to the Horse Guards Parade on some days.
The tour provides ample time to explore London’s iconic landmarks, but travelers should be aware that the river cruise portion requires making their own way to the designated pier locations.
Meeting and End Points
The tour begins at Victoria Coach Station, 164 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 9TP, UK, where you will meet their Blue Badge guide. Following the morning coach tour, the experience concludes at Evan Evans Tours, 258 Vauxhall Bridge Rd, London SW1V 1BS, UK.
Travelers must make their own way to the meeting point, as no hotel pick-up is included.
The tour starts promptly at 9:00 AM, so it’s best to arrive a few minutes early.
At the end of the tour, guests can either depart on their own or continue on the optional Thames River Cruise.
The cruise departs from either Tower Pier or Westminster Pier, and travelers are responsible for getting to the dock.
Pricing and Cancellation
The Royal London Sightseeing Tour and Thames River Cruise starts from $77.58 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience begins. This affordable price provides access to a comprehensive itinerary, including a guided coach tour of London’s iconic landmarks and a scenic river cruise along the Thames.
| Pricing | Cancellation |
|---|---|
| From $77.58 per person | Free up to 24 hours before |
| Children (3-16 years) discounted | Flexible booking |
Travelers can conveniently book this tour and make any necessary changes without additional fees, ensuring a stress-free planning process. With the option to cancel at the last minute, the Royal London Sightseeing Tour offers both value and flexibility for an unforgettable day in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The maximum group size for the tour is not specified in the information provided. Tour group sizes can vary depending on the tour operator and the specific tour, so the group size for this tour is unknown.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are typically no age restrictions for sightseeing tours, allowing people of all ages to participate. However, the tour operator may have specific requirements or recommendations based on the nature of the activities involved.
Can I Take Photos During the Changing of the Guard Ceremony?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. However, it’s best to avoid using flash photography as it can be disruptive to the proceedings. Respectful photography is usually permitted.
Is There an Option to Upgrade the River Cruise Ticket?
The tour doesn’t seem to offer an option to upgrade the river cruise ticket. Passengers are provided a one-way ticket for the cruise, and there’s no mention of being able to purchase a round-trip or premium ticket.
Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?
The tour does not provide luggage storage. Travelers will need to make their own arrangements to store any bags or belongings during the tour. Check with the tour operator or your hotel about available luggage storage options in the area.
Recap
The Royal London Sightseeing Tour and Thames River Cruise provides an immersive half-day experience showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour includes the Changing of the Guard and a scenic cruise along the Thames.
With convenient meeting points, flexible booking, and positive traveler feedback, it’s an engaging way to explore London’s rich history.
