Explore the most magical side of London - the royal history and everything that comes alongside it. This quintessentially British tour will give you an amazing insight into the history of the monarchy, and you’ll get to see some of the most iconic London sites (and sights!) in the process. Accompanied by your own private tour guide, discover London in a way you’ll never forget.
The tour starts at the Tower of London; experience this remarkable building and everything within it, without the usual crowds that come later in the day. Be one of the first to see the sparkling crown jewels and feel like royalty yourself! This former prison was the execution site of three former Queens of England, so there is a lot of history within the tower’s walls…
Following on from this, the second part of this amazing royal London tour is a river shuttle up the Thames. One of the most famous rivers in the world, there is plenty to see from your comfortable spot aboard the shuttle - so sit back, relax, and admire the scenery. Your guide will point out the major landmarks and some hidden gems as you cruise along the river, heading to your next destination…
The Changing of the Guard & Horse Guards Parade
Part three of this tour is the Changing of the Guards ceremony. You’ll enjoy a short stroll from the embankment to either Buckingham Palace or the Horse Guards Parade, depending on where the ceremony is taking place that day. Your private tour guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and pageantry behind the ceremony. The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace involves foot soldiers from the Household Division and occurs Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
On Saturdays, the show that takes place is known as the "Guard Mounting" or "Inspection of the New Guard" at Horse Guards Parade. The inspection involves the Captain of the New Guard inspecting the soldiers to ensure they are in proper order with their uniforms and equipment in pristine condition, before they take over their duties from the Old Guard.
Then, thanks to the knowledge and expertise of your private tour guide, you’ll head to the perfect spot which means you’ll have the very best view of the ceremony with nothing getting in your way. Don’t forget your camera because you’ll be able to snap such clear photographs from this angle! And as the ceremony begins, your guide will bring this experience to life with a thrilling commentary all about the history and pageantry behind it as the Queen’s Foot Guards, with their red tunics and unmistakable bearskin hats, start to march.
Your tour will finish at Buckingham Palace, where you’ll be able to marvel at the beauty of this grand building. Famed in books, movies, and artwork over the years, you’ll be thrilled by how incredible it looks in real life. And of course, your guide will have plenty of royal stories to tell you as they point out the balcony, the statues, and so much more. You’ll depart from this amazing private tour of London’s royal hot spots feeling like you’ve seen it all and know everything there is to know!