How to Experience London in a Day: Tower, Westminster & Changing of the Guard Tour

London, the bustling capital of the United Kingdom, is an incredibly diverse and vibrant city with a wealth of history, culture, and attractions to offer. For those with limited time, the Tower, Westminster & Changing of the Guard Tour is a perfect way to explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, all in one mighty day. This guide will take you through the highlights of the tour, providing useful tips and advice for getting the most out of your day in London.

Experience

The Tower, Westminster & Changing of the Guard Tour is a full-day excursion that includes visits to some of London’s most famous sights, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. In addition, the tour offers a scenic river cruise down the Thames, providing a unique perspective of the city.

Highlights

The Tower, Westminster & Changing of the Guard Tour offers a variety of highlights that make it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to see the best of London in a day.

• Explore the iconic Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels and more than 1,000 years of history
• Walk in the footsteps of kings and queens at Westminster Abbey, where British monarchs have been crowned and buried for centuries
• Experience two Changing of the Guards ceremonies, a quintessentially British tradition that takes place outside Buckingham Palace
• Stroll through Trafalgar Square, one of London’s most famous public spaces, and take in the street performers and bustling atmosphere
• Cruise down the River Thames and admire the cityscape from a different perspective

Full Description

The Tower, Westminster & Changing of the Guard Tour begins with a visit to the iconic Tower of London, where you will explore the historic fortress and see the Crown Jewels. The Tower of London is a UNESCO world heritage site and has played an important role in British history for more than 900 years. With pre-reserved tickets, avoid the long lines and make the most of your time. From the Tower, you will take a scenic river cruise along the Thames, one of London’s most famous waterways. This will take you past many of London’s popular landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Next, the tour will take you to Westminster Abbey, where you will have the opportunity to marvel at the tombs of national heroes, religious and royal relics, and centuries of royal weddings, coronations, and funerals. Walk in the footsteps of kings and queens and saw their intricate statues and carvings. The tour then makes its way to Trafalgar Square, where you can admire the imposing Nelson’s Column and enjoy the hustle and bustle of one of London’s most famous public spaces. The highlight of the day is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, where you will witness the Queen’s Life Guard, an elite cavalry regiment, as they perform their ceremonial duties in front of Buckingham Palace. Since this is one of the most popular attractions in London, the tour is pre-arranged to ensure that you get a great view of this unique and spectacular event. After the Changing of the Guard, the tour will return to the Tower, where your excursion ends. Make your way back to your accommodation full of knowledge and memories of the fantastic day out.

Tips and Advice

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Tower, Westminster & Changing of the Guard Tour.

1. Arrive on time – This tour runs on a tight schedule, and you do not want to miss any of the attractions.
2. Dress comfortably – Wear shoes that are comfortable for walking and dress in layers, as the weather in London can be unpredictable.
3. Bring a camera – You will undoubtedly want to capture the sights and memories of this tour.
4. Carry some cash – Some attractions accept cash only, and you may want to buy souvenirs or snacks along the way.
5. Listen to the guide – The tour guide provides insightful information on the attractions you visit and ensures that everything runs smoothly.
6. Book the tour in advance – This tour is very popular and tends to sell out quickly, so book in advance to secure your spot. Use the link to book the tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

The Tower, Westminster & Changing of the Guard Tour is a must-do excursion for anyone visiting London, particularly those with a limited amount of time. With visits to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and experiences that are quintessentially British, this tour offers a unique and authentic way to experience the city. By following the tips and advice provided in this guide, you can make the most of your day in London and create memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQs about London

London is one of the most exciting cities in the world. It is a center of culture, entertainment, history, and politics. There are so many things to see and do in London that it can be overwhelming. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about London to help you plan your visit.

1. What is London known for?

London is known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and cultural institutions. The city is home to Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, and the British Museum. London is also famous for its West End theater district, world-class restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

2. What are the must-see sights in London?

There are so many must-see sights in London that it’s hard to narrow it down to a few. However, some of the most popular include:

• The Tower of London
• Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
• Buckingham Palace
• The British Museum
• The National Gallery
• The Tate Modern
• The London Eye
• The Natural History Museum
• The Science Museum

3. How do I get around in London?

London has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, the Underground (also known as the Tube), and trains. The Underground is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city, and there are buses and trains that connect to other parts of the UK. You can also use taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.

4. What is the best time of year to visit London?

The best time of year to visit London depends on your preferences. The most popular time to visit is during the summer months of June, July, and August, when the weather is warm and there are many outdoor events and festivals. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect large crowds and higher prices. If you’re looking for a quieter time to visit, consider visiting in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.

5. What is the weather like in London?

London has a temperate climate, which means it has mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in the winter is around 5°C (41°F), and the average temperature in the summer is around 18°C (64°F). It can rain at any time of year in London, so be prepared for wet weather and pack an umbrella.

6. What is the currency in London?

The currency in London is the Pound Sterling (GBP). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, or ATMs throughout the city. Many shops, restaurants, and hotels also accept major credit cards.

7. What is the language spoken in London?

The official language of London is English, and it is spoken by the vast majority of people in the city. You may also hear other languages spoken, such as Spanish, French, or Mandarin, as London is a multicultural city.

8. What are some traditional British foods to try in London?

If you’re looking to try traditional British food, there are several dishes you should try, including:

• Fish and chips
• Pie and mash
• Bangers and mash
• Roast beef and Yorkshire pudding
• Toad in the hole
• Bubble and squeak

9. What is the crime rate in London?

Like any major city, London has its share of crime. However, the overall crime rate in London has been decreasing in recent years, and the city is generally safe for tourists. As with any city, it’s important to take basic precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe, such as staying in well-lit areas and avoiding carrying large amounts of cash.

10. How can I save money on my trip to London?

There are several ways to save money on your trip to London, including:

• Using public transportation instead of taxis
• Booking your accommodations well in advance
• Visiting museums and galleries that offer free admission
• Eating at local pubs instead of expensive restaurants
• Buying tickets for attractions online to avoid waiting in line

Book Your Tour Now

London is an incredible city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just having a good time, London has it all. By following these FAQs, you can make the most of your trip to London and have an unforgettable experience.

How to spend your time as a tourist in London

London is one of the most popular cities to visit among tourists. It is a city with a rich history, culture, and numerous attractions for visitors. London can be visited anytime throughout the year, and there is always something to do. If you are planning to visit London, here are a few things that you should add to your itinerary.

1. Visit the historical sites

London has a rich history, and there are several historical sites that you should visit. These sites include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament. The Tower of London has served as a fortress, palace, and prison throughout its history. You can take a guided tour of the Tower, see the Crown Jewels, and learn about the history of the Tower.

2. Explore the museums

London is home to some of the best museums in the world, and visiting them should be on your to-do list. The British Museum is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the world. It has over eight million objects and artifacts that cover two million years of human history. Other museums that are worth visiting are the National Gallery, the Tate Modern, and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

3. Take a stroll in the parks

London has some of the most beautiful parks in the world. Hyde Park, Regents Park, and St. James’s Park are just a few of the parks you should visit. Hyde Park is the largest and most famous park in London. It has several landmarks, gardens, and lakes that you can explore. You can also rent a boat and paddle on the Serpentine lake.

4. Go shopping

London is known for its excellent shopping experience. It has several streets and shopping centers that offer a wide range of products. Oxford Street is the most famous shopping street in London. It has over 300 shops and attracts over half a million visitors every day. Covent Garden, Westfield London, and Harrods are also great places to go shopping.

5. Enjoy the nightlife

London is famous for its nightlife. You can find pubs, bars, and nightclubs all over the city. There is something for everyone in London’s nightlife. Soho is one of London’s most famous nightlife areas. It has a wide selection of bars, pubs, and clubs.

6. Take a ride on the London Eye

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames. It offers stunning views of the city and is a popular attraction for tourists. You can take a ride on the London Eye during the day or at night.

7. Explore the street markets

London has some of the best street markets in the world. Borough Market is one of the most famous markets in London. It has been in operation for over 1,000 years, and you can find a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other products. Other markets you should visit include Camden Market, Brick Lane Market, and Portobello Road Market.

8. Watch a show in the West End

The West End is the equivalent of Broadway in New York City. It is home to over 40 theaters and stages some of the best shows in the world. You can catch a musical or a theater production at one of the theaters in the West End.

9. Take a tour of the Harry Potter studios

If you are a fan of Harry Potter, then a visit to the Harry Potter studios is a must-do. The studios are located just outside London, and you can take a tour of the sets, costumes, and props used in the Harry Potter films. You can even try some of the famous Butterbeer.

10. Eat at the best restaurants

London has some of the best restaurants in the world, and it’s a great opportunity to try some of the local cuisine. You can find restaurants that offer British cuisine, as well as international cuisine. Some of the best restaurants in London include the Fat Duck, Sketch, and the Ledbury.

Book Your Tour Now

London is an amazing city with a lot to offer. This guide has only scratched the surface of what you can do in London. Make sure to plan your trip ahead of time and include some of these activities in your itinerary. London is a city that you’ll never forget.