Event location: City Discovery (London). Ongoing event.
Immerse yourself in London's traditions with the expertise of a local guide. Visit the Royal residence Buckingham Palace, witness the Changing of the Guards and indulge in a traditional English afternoon tea like a real Londoner would!
Partake in London's series of quintessential institutions: the changing of the guards, afternoon tea and last but surely not least, catching a glimpse into the lives of the Royal Family. This is the only tour of its kind that includes three iconic London experiences in one day!
Your royal London experience begins with the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace. This world-famous ceremony is the oldest tradition of the palace and is held either here or at Horse Guards Parade. Your guide will make sure that you'll enjoy the best views at this crowded event. Enjoy commentaries on the history and pageantry behind the ceremony, where the Queen's Foot Guards, with their red tunics and unmistakable bearskin hats, march to Buckingham Palace together with the military band.
The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh open the doors of Buckingham Palace to visitors just once a year for two months. This is a unique opportunity to catch a rare glimpse into the private residence of the Royals. Tickets are hard to come by but since our entrance is pre-booked, access is guaranteed and there will be no lines to wait on. Though no guides are allowed to speak inside the palace, your guide will take the time to arm you with plenty of background information and advice before you set off on your own. This is the real home of Queen Elizabeth II, boasting lavish apartments, sparkling chandeliers and exquisite furnishings. These rooms house some of the greatest treasures of the Royal Collection such as superb pieces of Sevres porcelain and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world. You'll learn all about the palace residents, history and traditions as well as the stories of the furnishings and ornaments via the official Palace audio guide.
Your experience rounds out with a gorgeous stroll through London's Royal St. James Park and a traditional English afternoon tea in a luxurious setting near the Palace. You'll work your way through a selection of finger sandwiches, before enjoying the classic scone with thick clotted cream and homemade preserves. The highlight of the meal is the selection of freshly made cakes and pastries, delicious and elegantly displayed.
Learn the secret to living these experiences like a real Londoner would! Experience London's traditions with the expert knowledge of a local guide on this Skip the Line Buckingham Palace Tour.
Duration
4 hours and 30 minutes.
When Can I Go?
Daily at 10:45 or 14:00
How Does It Work?
You will receive an email confirmation with a voucher attached. Please print this voucher and present it to the local guide at the beginning of the tour.
Where Do I Go?
Meeting Point for Morning Tours: Duke of York column at Waterloo Place. This is the tall column with the statue on top.
Meeting Point for Afternoon Tours: At the entrance to Buckingham Palace.
What's Included?
Expert English-speaking tour guide, Entrance ticket and reservation fee for Buckingham Palace, changing of the Guards* and afternoon Tea*
*(if option is selected)
Good To Know
- This service ends at the afternoon tea location.
- Please inform us of any special dietary requirements at time of booking.
- Changing of the Guard will not operate in heavy rain and will be replaced with the Guards Chapel.
- Photography is not permitted within Buckingham Palace but is allowed within the gardens.
- This tour involves a fair amount of walking, comfortable shoes are recommended. We are unable to accommodate customers with wheelchairs or impairments requiring special assistance and customers with strollers or baby carriages on our group tour.
- This is a physically challenging tour that involves a considerable amount of walking, and stairs. For this reason, we do not recommend this tour for customers with health conditions.
- This tour operates with a maximum of 20 to 25 guests.
- This tour is operated in English only.
Suitable For Children
Yes - Children 5 years old and below are free of charge.
Cancellation Policy
No refunds available after purchase.