How to Plan Your London: Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour

If you’re planning a trip to London, the Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour is a must-see attraction. This walking tour will take you through some of the most iconic and historic sites in the city, including Buckingham Palace, St James’ Park, and Westminster Abbey. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your tour, what to expect, and highlight some of the key attractions you’ll see along the way.

Experience

The Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard guided walking tour is a unique experience that allows you to get up close and personal with London’s most famous and impressive sights. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the parks, monuments, and historic buildings of Royal London, beginning with Buckingham Palace, the most famous residence of the King.

Highlights

During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Gaze upon Buckingham Palace and learn its iconic history
• March to the beat with the Changing of the Guard and Horse Guards
• Spot the famous parakeets and pelicans in beautiful St James’ Park
• Marvel at Westminster Abbey and its 1000 years of royal history
• Explore Parliament Square and its historical statues

Full Description

The Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard guided walking tour is a must-do for any traveler visiting London. The tour begins at Buckingham Palace, where you’ll learn about its history and significance, including what life is like for the royal family living there today. From there, you’ll explore the beautiful gardens of St James’ Park, home to a variety of wildlife, including the famous parakeets and pelicans.

Next, you’ll witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, where the guards march in perfect synchronization to the beat of the drums. The tour will also take you to Horse Guards Parade, where the Household Cavalry performs a daily ceremony known as the Guard Mounting.

After that, the tour continues to Westminster Abbey, one of the most famous churches in the world, where you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the most breathtaking architecture and learn about its 1000-year history. You’ll then explore Parliament Square, where you can see some of the most iconic sculptures and statues representing key historical figures.

What’s included

The Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard tour includes:

• A live guide to take you through the sights and offer interesting insights
• Hotel Pickup
• Entrance to attractions
• Food and drinks
• Gratuities

Please note that this tour may not be suitable for people with heart problems.

Book Your Tour

Ready to book your tour? Visit GetYourGuide.com to purchase your tickets today. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Conclusion

Planning your London: Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour is easy with this guide. You’ll get to see some of the most iconic and historic sites in the city and learn about the history and culture of London. We hope this guide has helped you in planning your tour and we wish you a wonderful visit to London!

Insider’s Guide to London: Beyond the Tourist Spots

London is a city steeped in history, art, culture, and culinary delights. As an insider, I’ve gathered some of the hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. Whether a first-time visitor or someone looking for new places to explore, this guide will take you on a journey through London’s lesser-known treasures.

Local Attractions: Gems Hidden from Tourists

Most tourists head to the big-name tourist spots such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the London Eye. But hidden among the streets of London are some lesser-known attractions that are worth visiting. One such attraction is the Sir John Soane’s Museum that houses the works of an architect from the 17th century. Another is the Horniman Museum and Gardens in south London, comprising exhibits showcasing natural history, cultural artefacts, and musical instruments.

If you’re looking to escape the city buzz, take a stroll through Dulwich Picture Gallery or the Geffrye Museum. Both are small and quaint museums that offer a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.

Dining Spots: A Peek into London’s Food Culture

London’s food scene has come of age with a surge of exciting new restaurants opening up every year. While the traditional pubs and fish & chips are a must-try, broaden your palate by trying the eclectic range of cuisines available in the city.

For breakfast, hit up the notable Monmouth Coffee shop in Borough Market before trying the Turkish cuisine in Green Lanes, North London. For dinner, head to Berber & Q in east London, a top spot for Middle-Eastern cuisine. Passage to India in Islington is the go-to place for delicious Indian cuisine, accompanied by great stories about how curry became an integral part of London’s food scene.

Cultural Experiences: Diving into London’s Traditions

London is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, with a plethora of festivals, arts, and music scene. Visit the Notting Hill Carnival held over the last weekend in August, one of the largest street festivals in Europe. During Christmas, indulge in the new tradition of ice skating with a view at the Tower of London, overlooking the Thames river.

If you’re into the music scene, then Jazz Café in Camden is a must-visit venue for live performances and quality drinks. And don’t miss out on London’s theatre productions, with fabulous shows staged throughout the year.

Local History: The Colourful Tales of London’s Past

When you think of London’s history, you likely think of famous landmarks like The Big Ben and the Tower of London. But there’s a lot more to London’s past than just these iconic landmarks. Head to the Hunterian Museum for an introduction to extreme surgery and medical practices in the past at the hospital established in 1799. The Dennis Severs’ House in Spitalfields is a fascinating museum-cum-time capsule, offering a glimpse into life in a typical Georgian-era house.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

London may be a bustling city, but there are still plenty of places to escape the crowds and enjoy peaceful moments. Try your hand at foraging for wild food with Forage London or enjoy some time at Hampstead Ponds for a peaceful swim in one of London’s pockets of nature.

For an unusual art experience, try God’s Own Junkyard in Walthamstow for their quirky neon displays in a family-run warehouse space. Or, visit the abandoned Witanhurst Mansion in Highgate, a place with a mystical aura that has been featured in many movies and TV shows.

Whether you’re seeking local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, or off-the-beaten-path suggestions, London has it all. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be able to enjoy the city from a new perspective and return home with stories to tell and memories to cherish.