best of royal london tour

Best of London: Tower of London, Thames River Ride & Changing of the Guards

Join us on our Best of Royal London Tour featuring the Tower of London, Thames River Cruise, followed by either the Changing of the Guards or a Royal Walk of Westminster city.

This carefully crafted early-morning visit to one of London’s most iconic landmarks lets you skip the long lines and avoid large crowds, ensuring you experience the Tower of London’s opening ceremony, if the option is selected, and get a firsthand look at the priceless Crown Jewels among the first visitors.

Afterwards, relax on a Thames River boat ride with your expert, English-speaking guide offering insights into the major landmarks along the banks.

Depending on the day you book, conclude your journey with either a viewing of the Changing of the Foot Guards or the Changing of the Horse Guards (Note: this event is subject to change with no prior notification from the Household Cavalry). If your tour departs after 9am, end with a guided walking tour through the lively area of Westminster. Be part of an exclusive London adventure – book your tour now!

• Enjoy the Tower of London, Thames River ride, and The Changing of the Guards (on selected days). 
• Experience the Tower of London’s opening ceremony,  if option selected, and be among the first to view the priceless Crown Jewels.
• Disembark your boat ride and depending on the day, either attend the Changing of the Guards or a fully guided walking tour through the vibrant city of Westminster.

Your Unique London Tour Experience

What's included.

• VIP early-access tickets to Tower of London (if option selected)
• Opening Ceremony of the Tower of London by the Beefeaters (if option selected)
• Exclusive Guided Tour of the Tower of London
• River Thames boat ride
• Viewing of the Changing of the Guard or Changing of the Horse Guards
• Guided Walking tour of Westminster City (if guard ceremonies unavailable)
• Expert, English-speaking tour guide
• Headsets when appropriate, so you always hear your guide
• Hotel pick-up/drop-off

Sites Visited

• Tower of London
• Thames River
• Westminster City
• St James's Park
• Buckingham Palace (outside area)

Exclusive Tour of The Tower of London

Famous and somewhat infamous, we start your tour at one of the United Kingdom’s most recognizable landmarks – the Tower of London. Begin your day with exclusive guided access to the historic Tower of London, a former fortress, prison, and execution site. This early-morning visit ensures we beat the crowds and, if option selected, witness the captivating Opening Ceremony performed by the renowned Yeoman Warders. By avoiding the crowds, our tour allows you to be among the first to see the Crown Jewels.

Changing of the Guards or Westminster Walking Tour

Depending on option selected and the schedule of the Household Cavalry, view the Changing of the Foot Guards or the Changing of the Horse Guards, an impressive display of British tradition and military precision famous to London. Alternatively, discover the Heart of London with the Westminster City Walking Tour: you'll find yourself surrounded by centuries of history and the very foundations of the British monarchy. You'll have the opportunity to admire famous sights such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey from outside.

Grand Finale at Buckingham Palace

Your tours ends outside Buckingham Palace - it looks like a grand bastion to the rest of us, but to the Royals it is home sweet home.

Thousands of 5-Star Reviews

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Ticket Office at Tower of London - Open in Google Maps

Important Notes

• The Changing of the Guard is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather or other circumstances is not announced before the morning of the ceremony. When this occurs, you will be provided with a walking tour of Westminster city instead.
• Please note that the changing of the guard schedule may change and on different dates we will see either Foot Guards or Horse Guards.
• Please note that the Changing of the Guards ceremony is not included if your tour departs from 9am onwards. On these days, you will be provided with a walking tour of Westminster city instead.Due to increased security measures at many attractions some lines may form on tours with 'Skip the Line' access.

Cancelation Policy

This tour is subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected departure time.

On tours canceled more than 24 hours before the scheduled departure time, we are happy to offer our customers a refund for the full value of the tour.  This policy is valid across most of our tours, but is subject to some exceptions. In the case of a tour not being in line with this 24-hour cancelation policy, you will find this information in the "Know Before You Go" section of the specific tour page.   Tours cannot be canceled with less than 24 hours notice. We are unable to provide compensation for cancelations with the 24 hour window prior to your tour departure, nor can tour dates or times be amended. Bookings made with the 24 hour window are final .

A booking cannot be amended with less than 24 hours notice. Amendments made before this window are possible, but may incur a charge. Any bookings made within the 24 hour window are final and cannot be amended or subject to compensation.  This policy is valid across most of our tours, but is subject to some exceptions. In the case of a tour not being in line with this 24-hour amendment policy, you will find this information in the "Know Before You Go" section of the specific tour page. Tours cannot be amended/canceled with less than 24 hours notice. We are unable to provide compensation for cancelations with the 24 hour window prior to your tour departure, nor can tour dates or times be amended. Bookings made with the 24 hour window are final.

We strongly advise against arriving at the meeting point without a booking as we cannot guarantee that there will be space left on the tour. Our guides are unable to accept payment for tours so any bookings made on the spot will still need to be processed over the phone with payment by credit card.

• Book with Confidence: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience begins (local time).
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
• No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.

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The 7 best tower of london tours.

Hear all about the tower's history and secrets on a guided tour.

The Best Tower of London Tours

© Historic Royal Palaces

Built as a fortress by William the Conqueror beginning in the 1070s, the UNESCO-listed Tower of London is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Once a palace for monarchs, a formidable state prison and a place of execution – where three of Henry VIII's wives, including Anne Boleyn, met their end – this imposing castle conceals more than 1,000 years of history across its different towers. Visit to learn more about its gruesome tales, and to admire the Crown Jewels, where glittering state crowns and other precious treasures sit beside the world-famous Koh-i-Noor diamond.

If you're looking to explore this impressive site with the insider knowledge of a local, consider booking a tour. We've rounded up some of the top tours, all of which have at least 100 reviews and a minimum rating of 4 out of 5 stars across multiple websites.

• Best Overall: City Wonders – Best of London: Tower of London, Thames River Ride & Changing of the Guards

Best Private: Let Me Show You London – Tower of London Private Tour

• Best Combo: Walks – Complete Tower of London Tour: Opening Ceremony, Early Access Crown Jewels & River Cruise
• Best Opening Ceremony: LetzGo City Tours – Tower of London – Complete Tour with Crown Jewels & Opening Ceremony

Best Self-Guided: Historic Royal Palaces – Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

Best small group: james hart – tower of london, best for families: pinocchio tours for kids and families – tower of london tour for kids and families, best overall: city wonders – best of london: tower of london, thames river ride & changing of the guards.

U.S. News independently paid to send Laura French , an award-winning British travel writer currently based in London, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. City Wonders – Best of London: Tower of London, Thames River Ride & Changing of the Guards was selected by our team as the Best Overall thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

Price: Adults from $98; kids from $92 Duration: 4 hours

This half-day, early-morning walking tour is ideal if you want to combine the Tower of London with other key London attractions ; as a bonus, you get early access to the tower, meaning you'll enter before it officially opens to the public.

We met our guide by the tower at 8:15 a.m. and got plenty of interesting information on its history before being led through to watch the opening ceremony (available as an upgrade). A resident, red-and-navy-clad beefeater (the tower's ceremonial guards) welcomed us with entertaining anecdotes, before the chief yeoman warder and others marched through the grounds to officially open the tower. We then had around an hour to explore; it was enough time to admire the Crown Jewels and its diamond-topped crowns, royal robes and gold chalices – as well as some of the other towers, several of which were still (happily) empty pre-10 a.m.

After exploring the tower, we boarded a Thames Clipper boat from the pier around the corner, passing several London landmarks – from London Bridge to The Shard, St. Paul's Cathedral to the "walkie-talkie" skyscraper (the Fenchurch Building). From Embankment Pier, we wandered through Whitehall to Horse Guards Parade, witnessing the Changing of The King's Life Guard; crowds gathered as mounted soldiers in red and gold lined the square. After a stroll along The Mall, the tour ended at Buckingham Palace . We took in the lavish grounds from the outside and found the perfect photo spot as our guide continued to regale us with more insightful tales.

Laura French

Good to know:

• On Sundays and Mondays, a Royal Westminster Walk is offered instead of the changing of the guard.
• Prices vary by date, so play around with different options if you're flexible on when you can go.

Why we love it:

• Getting early access to the Tower of London makes a difference – I've been to the tower twice before, but this was the best experience yet. There was no line for the Crown Jewels (waiting times can get long later in the day), and the whole area felt relatively calm and uncrowded.
• It's a flexible tour, with the option to add on the opening ceremony when you book. Though it does cost extra, I recommend it if you want to experience one of London's many traditions. We learned about the history of the beefeaters and the daily Ceremony of the Keys, and were kept thoroughly entertained by the yeoman warder who greeted us.
• Our guide was humorous, entertaining and brought the tour to life, sharing facts and stories about London's past and present that I (even as a local) didn't always know about – from historic facts at the Tower of London to a garage in Whitehall that was used as the Ministry of Magic in the "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1" movie.
• The tour was a good length and the group wasn't too big (we had 19 in our group), so it felt like we saw and learned a lot without being overwhelmed.

Check prices & availability on:

Price: Varies depending on group size (maximum of 10) Duration: 3 hours

If you'd prefer a private Tower of London tour for just you and your family or friends, this is an excellent choice. An experienced Blue Badge Guide (Britain’s highest professional tourist-guiding qualification) will take you around the tower, sharing in-depth tales of its past. Explore all the key highlights, from the Bloody Tower to the Crown Jewels, as you learn more about its different uses throughout the centuries from an entertaining, knowledgeable expert.

Travelers highly recommended the tour, and are impressed with the knowledge of the guides. Many say it's a great option for families, with plenty of stories to keep younger ones entertained, and appreciate that it can be customized to suit the group's interests.

Tours are available Tuesday to Saturday at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., and at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays. Tours depart from the Welcome Centre at the Tower of London (you can also arrange for your guide to meet you at your hotel). The cost of the tour varies by the number of people in the group. For instance, a pair of two adults can expect to pay about 252 pounds (about $330) per person, while a group of 10 adults will pay about 89 pounds (around $117) per person. The company also runs private tours of other London landmarks, such as the British Museum and Westminster Abbey .

Best Combo: Walks – Complete Tower of London Tour: Opening Ceremony, Early Access Crown Jewels & River Cruise

Price: Adults from $135; kids from $123 Duration: 3 hours   Escape the crowds with early access to the Tower and its Crown Jewels on this standout tour. You'll enter before it opens to the public, and watch as a beefeater performs the opening ceremony. Then, you'll enter the Jewel House to admire its treasures with few others around, before meeting your guide for a tour of the rest of the site. Afterward, you'll be given a City Cruises ticket for a one-way sightseeing cruise on the Thames to enjoy at your leisure.

Travelers love this tour and feel it's well worth the price, praising the early access and the included headsets, which make it easy to hear the guides' commentary. Many enjoy watching the opening ceremony and are impressed by the guides, who keep the whole group entertained.

Tours depart from the Tower of London. They take place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. four days per week in summer (on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays), and two to three days per week in winter. The City Cruises pass is valid on the day and time of your choice, and from a selection of piers (including the Tower Millennium pier, just outside the gates, so you can easily do it straight after your visit). The company also offers an "after hours" evening tour of the tower that includes the legendary Ceremony of the Keys, when the chief yeoman warder officially locks the tower for the day.

Best Opening Ceremony: LetzGo City Tours – Tower of London – Complete Tour with Crown Jewels & Opening Ceremony

Price: Adults from 132 pounds (about $174); kids from 127 pounds (about $167) Duration: 3 hours

If you want to combine early access perks with a visit to Tower Bridge , this is the tour for you. You'll be among the first to enter the Tower of London, witnessing the military pomp of the opening ceremony before the crowds descend. Learn more about the history of the ceremony from your guide, then see the Crown Jewels with few others around.

Afterward, you'll have time to explore the surrounding highlights of the complex, before heading to Tower Bridge. Visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition and wander over the glass walkway to see the Thames from above, with sweeping city views all around. Head down into the engine rooms to learn more about the history of this Victorian-built feat, before a photo stop to round off your tour.

Tourgoers appreciate the early access and say it's well worth the money, praising the expertise and humor of the guides. Many also enjoy visiting Tower Bridge.

Tours are available every day apart from Tuesdays and leave from Tower Hill tube station, close to the Tower of London. The company also offers afternoon tours, though these do not feature the opening ceremony.

Price: Adults from 35 pounds (about $46); kids from 17 pounds (about $22) Duration: Varies

If you'd rather explore the tower on your own, book this option to enjoy guaranteed entry. It's the same price as buying a ticket on site, but it's worth it if you'd rather have your booking sorted in advance. You'll explore all the key highlights, from the White Tower and Traitors' Gate to Tower Green and the Crown Jewels. You can also join an optional, complimentary yeoman warder (beefeater) tour for extra insight – a highlight for many reviewers, who describe the warders as friendly and humorous. The first yeoman warder tour starts at 10 a.m. from Tuesday through Saturday, and 10:30 a.m. on Sundays and Mondays.

Travelers thoroughly enjoy the perspective offered by the beefeaters, and find the site fascinating; they recommend setting aside a few hours to explore it fully.

Price: Adults from 132 pounds (about $173); kids from 117 pounds (about $154) Duration: 3 hours

On this in-depth tour, you'll see the beefeaters, glimpse the famous ravens, admire the Crown Jewels and tour the rest of the tower with your guide, James Hart. An expert local who's been leading tours for more than two decades, he'll tell you everything there is to know about the tower's past – from its beginnings to the gruesome details.

Travelers find the tour fascinating; they give rave reviews of Hart's historical knowledge and sense of humor. Participants also say the ticket price is a good value for the experience.

You can choose a small-group tour or opt for a private one, with departures on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays throughout most of the year. Tours leave from the sundial outside Tower Hill tube station, a short stroll from the Tower of London. If you're hoping to explore outside of London, Hart also leads tours of Stonehenge and the Cotswolds, among other locations.

Price: Varies depending on group size Duration: 3 hours

If you're traveling with kids and are worried they'll get restless, this family-focused private tour is ideal. You'll be led by a Blue Badge Guide who's specially trained in keeping younger ones entertained. Highlights include a glimpse of the beefeaters, the Crown Jewels and a visit to all the other key highlights. Expect plenty of child-friendly tales, as your guide shares the history of the tower.

Participants love the tour, and many are impressed with how well the guides kept the kids' attention, tailoring the tour to different ages. A few say it might be a little long for younger ones, but most give rave reviews.

Tours leave from the Tower of London Welcome Centre at 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. every day, apart from Sundays and Mondays, when the morning tour starts at 10 a.m. Children of any age are welcome, although it's recommended for those 6 and older. The company also organizes kid-friendly tours of the British Museum, as well as a "Harry Potter" tour, among others.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer currently based in London. She grew up near the city and spent her childhood visiting sights like the Tower of London. She loves exploring local attractions, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

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Royal London Tour with River Cruise Option

Experience the ultimate introduction to London's iconic landmarks on our exceptional Royal London with River Cruise Option half-day tour . Discover the highlights of London in just a few hours and delve into the city's rich history alongside your Expert Blue Badge Guide.

Witness the time-honoured tradition of the Changing of the Guard* at Buckingham Palace , immersed in ceremonial grandeur. End your day on a delightful river cruise (if option chosen) for London's most famous sights from the Thames. Discover London's allure with this comprehensive tour for unforgettable memories and insights.

• *The Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday (subject to availability)

Victoria Coach Station, Buckingham Palace Road, London, UK

Our team will be waiting to greet you by our Welcome Desk at Victoria Coach Station, and will direct you to the correct departure gate. Victoria Coach Station is a 10-15 minute walk from London Victoria Station and Victoria Underground Station, and our Welcome Desk is located in front of Gates 1 and 2.

Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time ready for boarding.

The tour begins with a panoramic drive around Parliament Square , where you'll see the majestic Westminster Abbey , the historic venue of Prince William and Kate Middleton's nuptials. Next, we'll venture to St James' Park and Buckingham Palace to witness the vibrant spectacle of the Changing of the Guard* . Amidst the melodic strains of a military band, behold the stirring sight of The King's Foot Guard as they march to Buckingham Palace to execute the ceremonial guard change.

The tour finishes in Victoria at around 12.00 noon.

At the end of our tour, make your way down to Westminster Pier and hop on the next available boat for a scenic cruise down the River Thames. Enjoy a unique view of London and its beautiful waterfront as you head from Westminster Pier to Tower Pier next to the unique Tower of London.

Victoria Train Station

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Royal London Tour Starts: 9:00 am, Victoria Coach Station (boarding commences at 8:30 am)
• Royal London Tour Finishes: 12:00 pm approx. at Victoria Station
• When there is no Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace we see the Changing of the Guard at Horse Guards Parade
• The morning Royal London Tour is fully guided
• The optional River Cruise is independent and is a one-way trip from Westminster Pier to Tower Pier
• We encourage guests with e-tickets to bring these on their smart devices
• Please visit our Travel Health page for full details of our enhanced hygiene standards and protocols

PACKAGE OPTIONS

Royal London Tour with Changing of The Guard (Standard):

Expert Blue Badge Guide

• Superior Coach with Wi-Fi & USB charging on board

Personal Audio Headset

Royal London Tour with Changing of the Guard and River Cruise:

• River Cruise
• A fantastic introduction to the history of London
• Enjoy a relaxing morning tour of London with an Expert Blue Badge Guide
• See London's most iconic sights and landmarks
• Learn interesting facts about London
• River cruise along the Thames (if option chosen)

What's Included

Superior coach with free wi-fi and usb charging on board, river cruise (if option chosen), what's excluded, hotel pick-up & drop-off, river cruise (unless option chosen).

• No Cancellation Fees
• No Change Fees
• No Booking Fees
• Your Money is Protected - Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the day of departure
• Before travelling, please refer to our Travel Health
• For full terms, see Our Flexible Promise to You

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• Français ( French )

Royal London Tour

Discover Royal London, the home of the British Monarchy in the heart of the city

A Royal London Tour is unmissable because…

Pageantry, ceremony and the working life of the Royal Family are what come to mind when you think of Royal London! The Changing of the Guard (days can vary) with its precision performance and dashing uniforms is quintessential London. Her Majesty’s coaches and horses are stabled right beside Buckingham Palace in the Royal Mews and are just waiting for your visit. Former royal hunting grounds, duelling locations, private gardens, and jousting yards have long since been turned into public green spaces or parade grounds where you can relax and enjoy the greenery and wildlife or experience splendid military display.

The must-sees during a Royal London Tour

• Buckingham Palace with its iconic balcony, traditional location for the post-wedding royal kiss! (inside visits to the State Rooms possible in the summer).
• St James Palace , built in the 1530s and still the official home of the Royal Court
• Banqueting House, backdrop to the beheading of King Charles I, with its astonishing Rubens ceiling.
• The Royal Mews with the dazzling Gold State Coach used at every Coronation since 1821.
• The Mall, processional avenue for ceremonial state events and sometime Olympic and cultural events.
• Westminster Abbey, the royal church and location for coronations, state funerals and many royal weddings including Prince William to Catherine Middleton in 2011.

Book a Blue Badge Guide for a Royal London Tour because…

• Hear about the history of the building and life at Buckingham Palace.
• Learn which carriages are still used daily and why.
• Visit the famous pelicans in St James Park and find out about their origins.
• Benefit from your guide’s expert knowledge to gain the best location for photos.

This tour could be combined with a visit to nearby St James to appreciate a number of shops granted special status – a Royal Warrant – for their services in supplying the Royal Palaces.

Please bear in mind that these are not public tours, but private tours conducted by specialist Blue Badge Tourist Guides who will charge a separate fee, details of which can be found on our fees page.

Let us 'Match' you with one of our Blue Badge Tourist Guides who are:

• Friendly, professional and used to dealing with groups of all ages and sizes
• Holders of the prestigious Blue Badge (the highest Tourist Guiding qualification in the UK)
• Able to use special entrances at certain well known attractions to avoid waiting in long lines
• Able to offer tours in over 30 different languages

Simply input your tour request details in the form below. When you have finished, hit the Green ‘Submit to Match’ button. Your request will be instantly emailed to three highly qualified and enthusiastic London Blue Badge Tourist Guides, matching your criteria. They will then email you confirming availability, pricing and suggestions for the tour itself. So let one of our 500+ Blue Badge Tourist Guides make your stay in London a special one.

Short notice request! We will do our best to accommodate your needs, but generally try to give at least two days notice.

Date of tour: Flexible dates Coming to London for a whole week? Let the guide know that the date is flexible, so they can suggest an upcoming event or a less crowded time for the tour. (+/- 3 days)

Language: Albanian Bulgarian Chinese (Cantonese) Chinese (Mandarin) Croatian Czech Danish Dutch/Flemish English Finnish French German Greek Hebrew Hindi Hungarian Italian Japanese Korean Lithuanian Polish Portuguese Romanian Russian Slovak Spanish Swedish Swiss-German Taiwanese Turkish Welsh

Duration: Morning Half day tour up to 4 hours maximum, usually expected to finish by 13:00 Afternoon Half day tour up to 4 hours maximum, usually expected to start by 13:30 All Day Full days are up to 9 hours, usually finishing no later than 18:00 Evening Only Half day tour up to 4 hours maximum, usually expected to start no earlier than 18:00

Travel by: Walking & Public Transportation Tour Explore London by walking and a variety of public transport (Underground, Black Cab, London double decker bus or even riverboat) Cycling Tour Cycle around London with a professional Guide. Bring your own bicycle or request the Guide to help you hire one. Driving Tour Get driven around in style by a professional Driver Guide. Usually for groups of up to 7 people. Coach Tour A tour for larger groups (typically 20+). Please tell the Guide if you have your own coach and driver, or request the Guide to help you hire one. Virtual Tour Explore London's top sights and attractions from the comfort of your home

Interests: Major London sites Museum and Galleries Beyond London Specialist Tours Royal London Tour

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Royal London

A Walk for those who love all things Royal

This tour is available in most languages. Select your language on checkout.

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About The Tour

With your expert British Tours guide take a stroll through Royal London, heading to Buckingham Palace, the King's official London residence and a working royal palace. Enjoy the pomp and circumstance of the centuries old Changing of the Guard ( the guard change does not happen every day out of summer season, see Changing of the Guard schedule ).

Wander through London’s oldest Royal Park and past the home of the longest-serving Prince of Wales in history. Pass the Tudor palace of Henry VIII and see some of the poshest shops in London which have kept the Royals suited and booted for centuries. Hear stories of scandal, kidnap and plain old gossip.

Also see the Household Cavalry at work; Westminster Abbey, where the Kings and Queens of England have been crowned from William the Conqueror through to King Charles III who was the 40th reigning monarch to be crowned in May 2023 ( we can also arrange a visit inside to view this magnificent building, you will need more time and entrance fees apply ); the Palace of Westminster, better known as the Houses of Parliament and, time permitting, enter inside to see where Charles I and William Wallace were sentenced to death.

This walk will hit the big spots, but in true British Tours style, we also go off the beaten path on a fabulous and exciting walk of historic and contemporary Royalty!

See our other private London Walks

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Royal parks, windsor castle tour, windsor, eton & hampton court, westminster abbey, excellent ... an unbeatable, highly convenient way of getting to know this amazing city.

Steven Potter

Managing Director LondonTown.com

Why choose us?

Because you insist on the longest-established and most experienced service available in Britain. Founded in 1958, British Tours is still under the same management. About Us

Who is your Guide?

Our guides are personable educated men and women, chosen for their knowledge, special interests, backgrounds and personality. They will collect you by car from any central London location and guide you inside places of historic importance

Follow us on our journey

  Royal Tours of London 

Join our Royal Tours of London which go to the royal palaces, castles and landmarks in the capital. This includes Buckingham Palace Tours, Windsor Castle Tours as well as walking tours to see the Changing of the Guards Ceremony.

Open Top Bus Tour with Live Guide

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, London Eye, River Cruise & More

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London Private Tour - 4 hours

11 Best Royal Tours in London for Visitors (2024)

This post contains affiliate links for which I may make a small commission to help keep the site running. You will not be charged extra for these items had you not clicked the links. Thank you for your help to keep the site running!

Ready to tour the royal locations of London?

You’ve come to the right place, as we’re going to explore the best 11 royal tours in London – all led by expert guides who want to share the beauty of this part of England and help you skip the tourist traps.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.

The best royal tour in London is this London Royal Parks Bike Tour including Hyde Park.

It has over 400 great reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best royal tour of London is this London Royal Parks bike tour!

Click here to check prices and availability.

London royalty has a rich history.

Whether you’ve taken the train into London for a day trip or are staying in the city, learn all the history of the Royal Family through the years on these tours.

If you want to see what your other options are, including royal London tours with Changing of the Guard, royal family tours in London and royal walking tours in London, here are 10 more tours that are definitely worth your time.

So let’s get into the list of the best royal tours in London so you can book it already!

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended so you don’t miss out.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best Royal London Tours

1. london royal parks bike tour including hyde park : royal tour london.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 400+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

If you plan to do a lot of walking while in London, you should consider this bike tour.

Visit the Royal Parks by bicycle and learn all about them!

You’ll still get some exercise while giving your legs a slight rest.

Your local guide will keep you safe as you travel across busy intersections and find yourself gawking at the sights. 

You’ll cycle past Big Ben and get to visit 4 Royal Parks.

Visit the Houses of Parliament and the Churchill War Rooms.

Explore Westminster Abbey and Trafalgar Square.

See the National Portrait Gallery before stopping at Nelson’s Column for lunch.

Cycle through Green Park, Hyde Park, and St. James’s Park.

See Buckingham Palace and the London Eye.

With so many things to see, you’ll be glad you’re on bikes.

That means less time in transit and more time to see these quintessential places in London!

2. Best of Royal London including Tower of London, Changing of the Guard and Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 380+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• VIP early-access tickets to Tower of London
• Boat ride on the River Thames
• Headsets, when needed
• Guided walking tour of London’s royal sights

Start your tour at the Tower of London.

You’ll have early access tickets so you can visit before the crowds arrive!

Watch the Beefeater guards perform the opening ceremony and see the Crown Jewels!

You’ll be able to explore the entire grounds of this iconic London attraction.

Then you’ll get to cruise down the River Thames.

The 30-minute boat ride down the river will be a great way to see several quintessential London landmarks that are up and down the river.

Before the tour ends, you’ll also get to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

And if that’s not enough, you can also witness the Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall.

This tour is a great way to see some of the best parts of Royal London!

If you’d rather see the highlights than every single royal location, this is the way to go.

3. Royal London Tour with Changing of the Guard

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Expert Guide
• Superior Coach with Wifi & USB charging on board
• Personal Audio Headset
• Changing of the Guard

On this tour, you’ll drive by many iconic locations.

You’ll also get to see some quintessential London landmarks.

Witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

You can even upgrade to get tickets to the London Eye.

This tour will start at Victoria Coach Station so you can get settled in a comfy coach.

You’ll also have state-of-the-art headphones to help you hear every word your guide says.

While driving by locations with connections to London’s royalty, you’ll be able to take many photos.

You’ll also get to hear trivia, history, and other information from your knowledgeable guide.

The tour will stop at Buckingham Palace so you can watch the Changing of the Guard. You will also learn the significance of this ceremony.

Finally, you’ll head back as the tour comes to an end.

4. Treasures of London: The Royal Family Private Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 20+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private tour
• Local Guide
• One cup of authentic tea or glass of wine
• This tour is carbon neutral

This highly-rated tour has 9 exciting stops.

Since it will be a private group tour , you don’t have to stress about following the schedule as strictly as on other tours.

Another perk is its affordable cost!

And don’t forget that it’s a carbon neutral tour that allows you to get a lot of steps in!

This tour starts at St. Mary’s Church and Paddington Green.

Stroll through Leinster Gardens False Facades and visit Kensington Palace. Learn more while seeing Albert Memorial and the Goring Hotel.

Stop by the Albert to enjoy a drink, included in your ticket price.

Then visit Westminster Abbey, Westminster Palace, and Buckingham Palace.

While walking through London and seeing these landmarks, you’ll learn all kinds of information about the Royal Family and their heritage! 

5. Royal Windsor Afternoon Tour from London

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entrance to Windsor Castle
• Expert guide
• Superior Coach including Wifi and USB Charging On-board

Fans of the Royal Family will love this tour !

You’ll learn so much insider information and royal family secrets. 

You’ll get to explore the town of Windsor and take a tour of Windsor Castle.

See the area where the British Royal Family have lived for centuries! Learn about the history of this majestic castle and see where current royals actually live!

Take a self-guided tour of the castle with a free multimedia tour.

Your visit to Windsor will be long enough to go shopping and take lots of pictures!

Then you will also see St. George’s Chapel.

This historic and beautiful chapel has been around for over 500 years.

It recently became famous worldwide because it was where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle held their wedding ceremony. 

Your guide will answer many questions, even questions you didn’t know you had!

6. Royal London and Royal Palaces Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Guided Tour of London about the Royal Family and Royal Palaces
• This tour uses photos to bring the story of the Royal Family and Royal Palaces to life.
• Local London tour guide
• 8 iconic stops

This walking tour is an easy way to see everything royal that London has to offer!

Your local tour guide will share loads of information about the British Royal Family and British Royal History.

Immerse yourself in royal London as you learn all kinds of interesting facts! 

You’ll have many photo opportunities as you stroll throughout London.

Visit Buckingham Palace and St. James Palace and learn what makes each of them significant.

See the Clarence House and Lancaster House and find out their interesting histories. 

You’ll have the opportunity to walk down Pall Mall and even catch the Horse Guards Parade!

You’ll also get to see the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.

You might think you know a lot about these places, but you have plenty more to learn on the tour!

The best part is the low cost!

If you want to see everything on a budget, this may be the perfect tour for you.

7. Ultimate Royal London: Tower of London and Westminster Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours 45 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Entrance tickets to the Tower of London
• Guided River Thames boat ride
• Guided Westminster walking tour
• English-Speaking local expert guide

This tour provides guests with a crash course of Royal London history.

With a small group capped at 12 people, you’ll learn so much!

You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions that come to mind.

This tour begins at the Tower of London.

Explore the grounds, see some artifacts, and learn the history.

You can tour the Tower of London at your own pace to ensure that you aren’t too rushed.

Next, cruise down the River Thames.

A river cruise is always a blast.

This is especially true on the River Thames because you’ll see so many iconic London landmarks!

Your guide will fill you in with all the interesting facts about these places.

Throughout your tour, you’ll also pass by the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St. James’s Palace, and Buckingham Palace.

While you won’t actually tour these places, you’ll get to take a few quick pictures and learn a little bit about them.

When passing Buckingham Palace, you’ll have the opportunity to see the Horse Guards Parade.

8. The Crown Private Royal Tour London : royal London tour

• Experienced tour guide.
• No tour fee for kids 10 years and under.

This Royal London tour is perfect for fans of The Crown .

You’ll see several of the filming locations for the show.

You’ll also get to learn about the real history that inspired the popular show!

This private tour is a great way to see many iconic London landmarks and royal attractions.

Your tour guide will share loads of knowledge about everything you see throughout the day.

And since it will be a small group tour, you know that you’ll get plenty of opportunities to ask your own questions.

On this tour, guests will walk through Whitehall and Parliament Square. Learn about real London Royalty and insider information about The Crown.

In addition to Buckingham Palace, you’ll also see St. James’s Park and St. James’s Palace.

You’ll also get to see Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden. 

Not only will you get your steps in, you’ll see the gorgeous sights of London and filming locations from your favorite show highlighting London Royalty.

9. Royal London Private Walking Tour

• Local guide
• Hotel pickup

Love the idea of a private tour, but hate the idea of private tour prices?

This is a great way to enjoy a private tour for a fairly reasonable price!

You’ll get to see every Royal landmark in the city and have a personalized tour.

The guide will be able to answer any of your questions and you don’t need to worry about other guests!

You can even upgrade and enjoy afternoon tea at Kensington Palace.

The tour starts at Big Ben and ends at Kensington Palace.

You’ll visit 15 locations in between! And you’ll also pass by a few photo-worthy locations.

In addition to the more popular royal locations, you’ll see some of the lesser-known ones.

You’ll walk by Downing Street. See Clarence House and Apsley House.

Explore some Royal Parks!

Visit the Wellington Arch, Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, and Queen Victoria Statue in Kensington.

You’ll also get to see Albert Memorial and Royal Albert Hall.

10. Private Guided Tour of Royal London : royal tour of London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 16+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-3 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private expert guide 
• Bespoke recommendations for your time in London
• Ability to personalize your tour
• Option to make a reservation at a restaurant we think you’ll like

This highly personalized tour is a great way to see Royal London.

You can ask your guide a variety of questions.

Even ask about the best way to spend the rest of your trip!

This is great if you want local advice on how to enjoy London.

In addition to personalizing your tour, you can even request a personalized reservation.

Tell them about your favorite types of food and they’ll make a reservation at a local restaurant they think you’ll like!

You can customize the itinerary to fit your needs.

You’ll pass by so many Royal London landmarks!

Pause to learn the history or take photos.

You can spend extra time at your favorite landmarks since you’re not rushing like you would on a non-private tour.

This tour is a great way to experience luxury while touring London!

11. Royal London and The Beatles Private Tour

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Professional Blue Badge Tour Guide
• Private walking tour
• Public transport from Cavendish Avenue to Baker Street to Regents Street

This private tour is great for anyone who loves the Royal Family and the Beatles.

Or anyone who can’t agree with their travel partner about which one is better!

This private tour takes about half a day and will cover all the spots made famous by the Beatles and the Royal Family.

Learn about British history and pop culture history. 

Cross the iconic Abbey Road.

Visit Marylebone Station and Montagu Square.

See Savile Row.

Your tour guide will share loads of information about this iconic band.

Then head towards some Royal locations!

See Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey!

Visit St. James’ Park and Parliament Square.

Learn all about the history of these Royal places.

At the end of the tour, you can find out some of the Beatles’ favorite haunts so you know where to grab a drink or lunch!

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

• 11 Best Tours of the Cotswolds from London in 2023
• 11 Best Tours of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh in 2023
• 5 Best London Open Top Bus Tours
• 9 Best Scottish Outlander Tours
• 9 Best Ghost Tours in Oxford
• 5 Best Bath Ghost Tours
• 9 Best Bus Tours in Edinburgh
• 19 Most Unique London Tours
• 9 Best Day Trips to Oxford from London
• 7 Best Stonehenge Day Trips from London
• 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
• 11 Best Oxford Walking Tours
• 11 Best London Rock ‘n’ Roll Tours
• 11 Best London Museum Tours
• 3 Best Morse Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best London Beatles Tours
• 11 Best Walking Tours in Bath
• 13 Best Harry Potter Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
• 9 Best London Literary Tours
• 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
• 13 Best Evening & Night Tours of Edinburgh
• 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
• 11 Best London Bus Tours for Families
• 17 Best Harry Potter Tours in London
• 17 Best London Foodie Tours
• 13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh
• 11 Best Edinburgh Walking Tours
• 11 Best Private Tours in London
• 11 Best London Bike Tours
• 13 Magical Isle of Skye Tours
• 11 Cool Tours of Downton Abbey Spots in the UK
• 13 Mysterious Tours of Loch Ness
• 7 Best James Bond Tours in London
• 7 Best Paris Tours from London
• 7 Best Stratford-upon Avon Tours from London
• 7 Best Tours of Bath from London
• 7 Best Black Cab Tours from London
• 5 Best Graffiti Tours in London
• 9 Best London East End Tours

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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The 5 Best Tower of London Tours [2024 Reviews]

The Tower of London is a formidable piece of London history. Built as a palace as well as a fortress and prison, the Tower has been the home of many notorious Londoners, and even royalty.

Today, a thousand years after it was built by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London is a unique piece of history and the London landscape.

As a royal palace, it is home to many ceremonies, such as the Ceremony of the Keys. The Crown Jewels are also on display here. Also see our London Travel Guide .

Be sure to see our reviews of Stonehenge Tours , Thames River Cruises and Windsor Castle Tours .

Best Tower of London Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best rated tower of london tours for 2024.

• Exclusive Access to Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral
• London in One Day Sightseeing Tour Including Tower of London
• Early-Access Tower of London Tour
• Royal London Walking Tour
• Best of London Including Tower of London

Best Tower of London Tour Reviews

1. the tower of london – small group tour with a local expert.

• Departure Point : Sundial at the Tower Hill, London EC3N 2LY
• Departure Time : 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM
• Duration : 2 to 3 hours
• Includes : Tower of London tickets, expert guided tour

London is filled to the brim with incredible cultural and historical experiences, but there’s one that you truly can’t miss: seeing the Tower of London.

This quintessentially British experience is lead by an expert local guide who’ll not only show you the most iconic sights, but some fascinating hidden gems, as well. If that sounds interesting, look no further than the Tower of London – Small Group Tour with a Local Expert excursion.

Lasting anywhere from 2 to 3 hours, it’s perfect for busier schedules while never skimping on the details. Meet your guide, James, at the Sundial right outside the exit from Tower Hill Underground Station and head straight to the tower grounds to stroll around and explore.

James is absolutely fantastic, and does an excellent job of bringing centuries of history to life with passion and in-depth knowledge.

There’s no way you’d get to experience the Tower of London on your own like you would with James, who boasts an impressive 20+ years of experience. With this kind of insider’s perspective, the visit turns into an immersive historical journey with intimate knowledge of its rich past.

From its origins as a royal palace to its infamous role in the English Civil War, you’ll see the White Tower, the Crown Jewels, and many more famed locations.

What makes it even better, is that the tour includes all necessary tickets, personalized attention, and some coffee and tea to sip on as you cruise around!

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. vip tower of london and crown jewels tour with private beefeater meet & greet.

• Departure Point : 3 Tower Place, London EC3R 5BT
• Departure Time : 8:45 AM, 9:45 AM
• Duration : 3 hours
• Includes : Early AM timed access tickets, no waiting at ticket office, private audience with a Beefeater, admission to Tower of London including the world-famous Crown jewels, entry to Raven House of the Tower of London, visit Tower Green – the execution site of 3 English queens, entry to White Tower & Armory

Discover the timeless draw of England’s famed Tower of London with a tour that perfectly balances historical depth and a bit of exclusive, behind-the-scenes access that most visitors don’t receive.

This carefully-curated experience lets you bypass the masses of crowds and lines outside and head right into one of the country’s most iconic landmarks, seamlessly.

The VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour with Private Beefeater Meet & Greet adds a unique touch that was one of the highlights of my trip!

Start off with a visit to the imposing White Tower filled with tales of kinds and armory, before heading on to the Tower Green, where you’ll hear about stories of royal intrigue and brutal executions that took place over centuries.

Seeing the Crown Jewels is really special, showing off raw regal opulence that’ll captivate anybody. The meeting with a Beefeater was also something iconic, offering a firsthand glimpse into the traditions and duties of these famed employees.

We were actually able to ask them questions and listen to plenty of their own anecdotes, which basically no one gets to do! They were surprisingly friendly, and one of them even told us some spooky stories about paranormal experiences they’d had at the tower!

Our guide made it even more enthralling with his excellent storytelling and vast knowledge that he shared in an engaging way. Our time flew by on this tour!

Other Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. private tour of the tower of london.

• Departure Point : 2b Tower Hill, London EC3N 4EE
• Departure Time : 9:00 AM, 10:15 AM, 2:00 PM
• Includes : Professional guide, minimized queuing, private tour, optional upgrade of afternoon tea

I kind of regret it now, but the first time I went to London I completely avoided the Tower of London, even though it was one of my greatest interests. I had a feeling it would be absolute chaos with all of the queuing and crowds, but had I known about tours like this one, it wouldn’t have been an issue.

The Private Tour of The Tower of London avoids all of that, with a professional guide there to lead you past the waiting so you can get into the landmark without any delays.

I liked that we had the option of choosing either a morning or afternoon tour start time, which was easier to fit into our schedules. I always like doing tours in the morning, though both of the tour options offer these perks. You can also opt to upgrade to afternoon tea for the later tour as well, though I’m not a fan of tea, so we didn’t do it.

Once we got inside the tower, we met the ravens and had the chance to see iconic items like the Crown Jewels, as well as explore the famed White Tower, and see incredible views of the Tower Bridge! In fact, I’d go out on a limb and say that the tower offers the best views of the Tower Bridge in all of London!

The stories our guide told us about the White Tower were certainly chilling, though there were plenty of interesting events that took place here, as well. We learned that this oldest part of the fortress was once filled with armor that belonged to kings Henry VIII, Charles I, and other notorious kings.

If you have kids in your group, I highly recommend checking out the interactive exhibition which they seem to love!

4. VIP Early Access: Opening Ceremony Tower of London & Bridge Entry

• Departure Point : Tower Hill London EC3N 4DJ, UK
• Departure Time : 8:15 AM, 9:15 AM
• Includes : Enter Tower of London before the public, witness 700-year-old opening ceremony, meet the Chief Beefeater for a private welcome to the Tower of London & Opening Ceremony, entrance tickets included to the Tower Bridge Engine Rooms

Next up, is the VIP Early Access: Opening Ceremony Tower of London & Bridge Entry tour. This is a magical tour experience that very few get to go on, and the title says it all!

This isn’t your standard tour of the tower – it’s an opportunity to see it before the crowds arrive – even witness the Tower of London opening ceremony!

I’d say that the fact that you receive early access to see the Crown Jewels is worth the tour, alone. The Crown Jewels are practically always surrounding by swarms of people, so being able to have them essentially to yourself is priceless.

However, seeing the entire tower without other crowds walking around just really gives you a whole new perspective on the structure and the history that’s taken place within its walls.

This tour had one of the best guides around, offering us plenty of time to explore the grounds at our leisure, while offering up all kinds of cool recommendations.

Regaling us with fascinating historical accounts, I learned so much more than what you would find on a regular tour. Not to mention, he was very fun to listen to, and did a great job of engaging even the young kids in our group.

Perhaps the only thing I didn’t absolutely love about this tour was the fact that at one point, they brought our group together along with 2 others. This made it a bit difficult to hear the Beefeaters at one point, but aside from that, it was a phenomenal experience.

5. Best of London Including Tower of London

• Departure Point : Victoria Coach Station, London
• Departure Time : 7:15 AM
• Duration : 9 hours
• Includes : Tower of London tour, guided coach tour of the city, St. Paul’s Cathedral guided tour, stop at Westminster Abbey, sightseeing cruise on the River Thames, free time for lunch, two optional upgrades

If you’re looking for the best Tower of London tour, this may just be the one for you. This is a full-day tour that will take you on a guided, air-conditioned coach tour around the city of London. You’ll start by heading to St. Paul’s Cathedral for a guided tour.

On your way to Buckingham Place to watch the changing of the guard ceremony, you’ll make a stop at Westminster Abbey. This is a perfect time to take pictures in front of the most extraordinary examples of Gothic architecture in this area.

After watching the changing of the guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, there will be time for lunch. It’s at your own expense and there are many eateries in the area.

Then, you’ll head to the Tower of London. You’ll be guided by Traitor’s Gate and the torture exhibit before viewing the Crown Jewels.

Hop on a river cruise to see many famous London sites from the water. Your guide will tell you about the history of many of these places. When you step off the boat, your comprehensive tour of London is over, but you can choose to upgrade.

One upgrade includes a ride on the London Eye for breathtaking views of London and the perfect opportunity for photos. The other is a cream tea experience at Harrod’s restaurant. It includes a glass of sparkling wine along with scones and clotted cream.

London Travel Guide

Airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations, attractions, the history, beauty, and mysticism of stonehenge.

Let’s help you make the most of your vacation to London with this guide!

There are five airports that service London, England. If you are traveling abroad, you will most likely be arriving at London Heathrow. For shorter flights departing European airports, should you be heading to London from a previous vacation spot, you may fly into one of these smaller London airports:

• London City
• London Gatwick
• London Luton
• London Stansted

Visiting London is unlike visiting any other city on earth. Because of this, you will want to keep some things in mind when planning and packing. We list our top 5 tips for visiting London below. Do you have additional tips to suggest? We’d love for you to comment them below!

Tip #1: Bring Your Walking Shoes

Much of your travel around the city will be walking. Even when you head out of town for a day tour, such as those to Stonehenge, most of the tours require quite a bit of walking. It’s best to be relaxed wearing athletic shoes instead of wearing more fashionable shoes that can make the necessary walking uncomfortable.

Tip #2: Bring a Converter or Transformer

Your electric and electronic devices made for use in the US will not work in the UK without a converter or transformer. A converter is made to use with electronics such as your phone or tablet and a transformer with electric devices such as a hairdryer. The US runs on 120 V and the UK on 240. This means that using your US devices without a voltage converter or transformer in the UK may damage them.

Tip #3: Start Planning Your Trip Early

London receives millions of tourists each year. This means that you will most likely have to book tours well in advance. You should also book your accommodations and reservations in restaurants as soon as possible. This is especially true for tickets to theater events and shows.

Tip #4: Always Bring an Umbrella

It doesn’t matter what time of year you’re visiting London, quick showers and rainstorms are always a possibility. It’s best to bring an umbrella with you as purchasing one at a convenient location in the city will most likely cost much more. A collapsible umbrella that is easy to carry with you is ideal.

Tip #5: Start Budgeting in Advance

London is quite an expensive city to visit but it’s worth it. Be sure you have budgeted for your flight and accommodations as well as your daily meals. You should have plenty of British pounds, the local currency, on hand as taxis and some stores may not take debit or credit cards. Also, keep in mind that the farther out your trip is planned, the better deals you will get, especially on accommodations.

There are several Dishoom restaurants located around the city. These restaurants serve high quality and delicious Indian food within a modern atmosphere. London is one of the best places to enjoy Indian food outside of India. These restaurants often have a wait but the wait is well worth it.

Not only will you want to experience the delicious Indian food, it also wouldn’t be a trip to London without an afternoon tea. There are plenty of places around town to enjoy your tea, but afternoon tea at The Savoy Hotel, London is something not to be missed. Sketch is another afternoon tea hotspot offering a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a meal with a great view, you’ll want to make reservations at the Duck & Waffle. However, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the most popular meal in London, fish and chips, at many local hotspots.

Nightlife in London can be anything you’d like it to be. There are nighttime tours of the city and surrounding areas for something a little more low-key, or you can head to a nightclub or one of the many music venues to turn up the entertainment dial.

From standup comedy and dramatic theater to the trendy clubs of the West End and even the casinos that can be found around town, nightlife in London is perfect for everyone.

As mentioned, visiting London requires a lot of walking. However, you can also choose to ride the subway, board a boat, or even hop on a bus or take a taxi. You may find the subway also referred to as “the underground” or “the tube.”

The cost of transportation by any of these methods will be determined by your destination’s distance from central London. The city and surrounding areas are divided into zones that determine distance and cost. If you’re going to be visiting for at least a few days, you may want to invest in a daily or weekly Travelcard pass.

There are many choices in accommodations when visiting London. You may find a great Airbnb location, and you can also find everything from a small hostel to a five-star, luxury hotel. The accommodations you choose should be determined by your budget, but also by the type of experience you’re looking for. An Airbnb can instantly make you feel like a local.

A hostel can provide plenty of opportunities to meet other tourists and learn more about attractions and eateries. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, the Camden Enterprise Hotel or even the Dorset City London can provide it.

The average low temperatures during the winter months are in the mid-40s Fahrenheit or around 7°C. These mild winter temperatures make London an ideal vacation spot for the holidays. July, London’s hottest month of the year, usually doesn’t reach the 70s Fahrenheit, or above 18⁰ Celsius.

Even with mild temperatures during the summer, it can feel quite humid and you may run into a short shower or two. Once again, always have an umbrella handy.

First we would recommend a full tour of the city of London so that you can see where all the sites and areas you want to visit. Then you can go back and take more time to explore the areas you are interested in.

A vacation to London necessitates a visit to Buckingham Palace . Other attractions include the Coca-Cola London Eye, the Ferris wheel easily seen in every London skyline, as well as historical landmarks such as Kensington Palace, the London Tower, or the Churchill War Rooms.

While in London, be sure to visit one of the many museums and art galleries that can be found in nearly every area of the city. Parks, waterfronts, and bridges provide great photo ops and can provide a beautiful place to rest and take in the local sights.

For you fans of Harry Potter we would recommend a tour of filming locations of Harry Potter in London. You will appreciate the movies and books that much more when you actually visit the locations!

Maybe the best way to get most of the sights to see in London is a Thames River sightseeing and dinner cruise . You will glide by the sights on the beautiful Thames River while enjoying lunch or dinner and avoiding the crowds.

If you want to see a castle, the Windsor Castle is a don’t miss! This 1000 year old castle has been home to 39 monarchs and currently the Queen spends many weekends there. To fully appreciate the splendor, be sure to take a guided tour of Windsor Castle .

When planning your vacation to London, be sure to plan for a day trip to Stonehenge while there. A guided tour of Stonehenge will allow you to experience the English countryside, the 18th-century city of Bath, the ancient Roman baths, 14th-century English pubs, and more.

However, that doesn’t mean you can skip on visiting the many museums and art galleries, enjoying some of the best food available, and taking time to appreciate the beautiful mix of modern style and historical sites that London provides.

Enjoy your trip to London!

Tour Guides

The Tower of London and Crown Jewels Easy Access Tour is our Editors Choice for the best Tower of London tour

Krysha Thayer

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Presidents Cup

The Royal Montreal GC

PLAYERS RANKINGS

PLAYER RANKINGS

Betting Analysis

Presidents Cup picks 2024: Our experts' best bets at Royal Montreal

Jared C. Tilton

While you can't quite hit big like you can on an outright, these biennial team events still present plenty of fun and unique ways to place some bets. From top-scorer props to Day 1 winner props to who will hit the first tee shot, the 2024 Presidents Cup betting board has a little bit of everything.

Below, we've each plucked two or three of our best bets for this week's action at Royal Montreal. Scroll on down to see who, or what, we like.

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Pat Mayo, Underdog/Fantasy National, Mayo Media Network analyst : Corey Conners (+1000) and Byeong Hun An (+1400), Top International point scorers (Bet365) — Since they’re massive underdogs you have to think volume for the international team. Since this is in Canada, and the captain is Canadian, presumably they make sure the best Canadian is on the course in the first session. As long as he plays well, he’s not taking any time off and Conners may get all 5 sessions in. If he plays poorly, well, he wasn’t going to win anyway . As for An, it seems crazy to me that he has the longest odds of anyone on the team. Hopefully he gets out with a good partner on the first day, but simply stacking up resumes of all these players all year long, Ben An is one of the few to make it to East Lake, had a bunch of top 10s in signature events and even fired a clutch seven-under 65 last Sunday at Wentworth to enter in good form.

Brandon Gdula, FanDuel/numberFire managing editor : Xander Schauffele (+600), Top U.S. point scorer (FanDuel) — Xander has been a staple for the US team, and that shouldn’t stop any time soon, as he is putting together a dominant 2024 run. On paper, this Presidents Cup is actually closer than some may realize, so we could either see Schauffele with added matches due to a lack of a runaway – or because he is integral to an early-week surge. All signs point to volume and points for Xander.

Stephen Hennessey, Golf Digest dep. managing editor : Day 1 winner, U.S. Team (-145, FanDuel) — I’m not as bearish on the International team’s chances as the odds would suggest, but I do think the Americans’ talent will shine in the opening fourballs matches. The International team has some great putters, but 10 of the 12 players will be playing in the opening day, so the depth of each team will be on display—which is an advantage in fourballs more so than foursomes, in my opinion, which is why I like this bet.

Keith Stewart, Read The Line: Patrick Cantlay (+700), Top U.S. point scorer (Bet365) — Everyone loves Xander Schauffele to win most points for the American side. Guess what, if he does win four or five points it will be with Patrick Cantlay in the team formats. Cantlay has a better singles record than Xander in Cup matches and probably won’t draw as tough an opponent on Sunday. As a bonus for this bet, Patrick is nearly twice the odds of Schauffele. Should Furyk break the dream team up, I still like Cantlay to come through with or without the X-man.

Christopher Powers, Golf Digest senior writer : Tournament Fourballs Winner, U.S. (-175, DraftKings) — Best ball has historically been the stronger format for the American side in both the Ryder and Presidents Cups. There are nine total fourball matches this week, and I think the International team would be absolutely thrilled to get three of those, let alone four. They'll have to make up their ground in the flukier foursomes format and in singles. U.S. should easily take the fourballs with their top-heavy squad.

Andy Lack, Run Pure Sports and Inside Golf podcast : U.S. to win 17-13, Correct Score (+1100, DraftKings) — It’s more fun to call your shot in these team events, and I do feel comfortable in my prediction that the United States will win handily, but not in a blowout. My guess is that the United States wins by between two and six points, so let’s split the difference and call it 17-13. The Americans still possess a significant talent advantage, but the back end of their team has some weaknesses, and the opposition has kept it far closer on International soil.

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Gdula: Hideki Matsuyama (+650), Top International point scorer (FanDuel) — Historically speaking, OWGR rank has told us a lot about match volume for the International team, and that points to Matsuyama above all, as he’s seventh in the world with only Adam Scott (18th) inside the top 20 on the roster. Hideki’s recent form also puts him at the top of the list, so he’s the most obvious choice for a full match card and points.

Hennessey: Si Woo Kim (+850), Top International point scorer (DraftKings) — I absolutely love Si Woo Kim on this golf course. He’s one of the most accurate players off the tee on the PGA Tour, which will be crucial at Royal Montreal. He played great at Castle Pines in the second playoff event, and then had a top 20 last week at Wentworth. The putter can definitely spike for the positive, and I think he’ll likely get a strong partner—which could mean he’ll be on a power team all week.

Minas Panagiotakis

Lack: Taylor Pendrith (+1400), Top International point scorer (DraftKings) — If the International team has a strong analytics department, they will know what they have in Taylor Pendrith. I know that he may not be the biggest name on the team, but I do believe the Canadian possesses some of the most upside. Pendrith is an excellent total driver of the ball, putter, and he is striking his irons beautifully at the moment. This is one of my favorite value plays on the board.

Powers: Corey Conners (+1000), Top International point scorer — Pat hit the nail on the head already—Conners is, statistically, one of the International team's top two players, and he's playing in his home country with a Canadian captain in Mike Weir. If he doesn't play in every session, and doesn't get paired with a teammate who can actually putt, then Weir is asking to lose.

Stewart: Si Woo Kim (+375), Top International captain's pick scorer (Bet365) — Earning points is all about getting an opportunity to play. Si Woo Kim can win in either team format. An incredibly straight driver of the golf ball, he’s a perfect partner in foursomes. An aggressive scoring machine, Kim is great for fourball as well. Most captain’s picks only get two or three chances to play. Si Woo is one of ONLY two players with a winning record on the International side who has competed in multiple Presidents Cups. Take the confident Kim and your chances with him being a big part of Mike Weir’s winning strategy.

Lack: Collin Morikawa (+800), Top Overall point scorer (DraftKings) — I originally had Sam Burns slotted for this spot, but if practice rounds are any indication, we may actually see Collin Morikawa play some golf with Scottie Scheffler this week. A Morikawa/Scheffler duo would be one of the more deadly teams that the United States could deploy, and I would expect them to be significant favorites against any International pairing. Morikawa is an excellent course fit for Royal Montreal in his own right, and his total driving and middle-iron play should reign supreme at the Dick Wilson design.

RELATED: Four keys to the Internationals grabbing an upset win at Royal Montreal

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Sahith Theegala finds fairway, hits new heights

Learning to play from the short grass has led to his best-ever season.

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Sahith Theegala didn’t know where he was.

But once he got used to being there, in the fairway, he enjoyed a career-best campaign that proved he was meant to be there all along.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Theegala, whose stark transformation off the tee this year has made him one of the most improved players on the PGA TOUR.

The spotlight at this week’s Presidents Cup at The Royal Montreal Golf Club will shine brightest on world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and No. 2 Xander Schauffele, who had the best and second-best seasons as they distanced themselves from the pack. But they’ve played in the Presidents Cup and/or Ryder Cup, as has most every other member of the U.S. team.

Just two Americans, Russell Henley and Theegala – the latter of whom shot from 134th to 22nd in Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee, went from 172nd to 91st in Driving Accuracy, and finished a career-best third in the FedExCup – have never played on a major U.S. team as a professional.

And only Theegala, who led the field in birdies at the TOUR Championship at East Lake, has gone from 37th to 11th in the Official World Golf Ranking over the last year, making this one of the most highly anticipated debuts by any player in Montreal.

“I like what he does,” Justin Thomas said. “It's similar to how I play, very feel. He's not scared to aim 40, 50 yards left and hit a huge slice out there. He has unbelievable hands, unbelievable touch, and obviously great instincts to where it's not necessarily – I'm sure he has certain fundamentals or things that he checks, but it's more about, 'Am I getting the ball in the hole as quick as possible or am I hitting the fairway however I can?' Not, 'Is it some certain position?'

“I like that about him,” Thomas added, “and 100 percent, he's got all the shots.”

Sahith Theegala shares what’s improved his driving

Theegala himself is not blind to how far he’s come.

“I cannot wait,” he said. “There's a hundred guys on TOUR that would take my spot in a heartbeat and never give it up. And I know I'm going to be super nervous, but I'm just going to embrace everything. It's going to be really enjoyable to get to know the guys better and get to know their better halves better and – just see how that all works.

“It's a pretty lonely game out here sometimes,” he added. “And to have that team chemistry and that closeness for that whole week, I think we're gonna make some friends for life. And, the golf, in a weird way – after the first few holes – I think it will be the easy part.”

And that’s precisely it, the explanation for how Theegala got here. How he made this team on points, how he finished third at the TOUR Championship despite calling a two-stroke penalty on himself in Round 3 for brushing some bunker sand on his backswing. (You’ll have to take his word for it; the infraction was not visible to the naked eye.) Golf is easy now, or at least easier.

Because sure, Theegala is an artist, and yes, he can bend it 50 yards around a pesky oak. But the artist has now found structure, which in any generative act, even golf, is the sweet spot.

Turning a cut into a fade

Theegala has scoliosis, or curvature of the spine. This led to the problem of too much side bend on the downswing, to potentially disastrous effect with the driver. Unless he timed it perfectly, he was often wild off the tee. He’d become borderline fatalistic about it.

“I almost felt hopeless to a certain extent,” Theegala said. “I just felt like I'm never going to be an elite driver of the ball, and I was OK with it.”

What saved him was that he was so good in all other facets. He shaped shots around trees, under branches, over houses – think a modern-day Seve Ballesteros. Additionally, Theegala could get up and down from anywhere, and his putting was above average. When he broke through with his first TOUR win at the Procore Championship in the fall of 2023, he was 40th in Strokes Gained: Off The Tee, T46 in Driving Accuracy and second in Strokes Gained: Putting.

What changed was indeed a long time coming and resulted from Theegala’s work with Rick Hunter, his swing coach since age 6, and trainer Josh Loyo. They collaborated to strengthen Theegala’s base and core, addressing limitations that were causing him to succumb to too much lateral side bend on the downswing, his body almost collapsing in transition.

“For me it’s always been about stabilizing his lower body (stronger) and allowing him to be more rotary vs. a lateral mover,” Loyo said via text. “Obviously we don’t want to lose that lateral component because that’s a big part of his triggers in his swing, but not allowing it to break down his swing. Sahith has put so much more emphasis on his body, and it’s paid off.”

It was a gradual process, Loyo added, although it didn’t look gradual this year. Theegala could finally make the changes in his transition that Hunter had wanted him to make all along. No longer was he getting stuck on the transition, necessitating a flip of the hands lest he hit another wildly off-target tee shot, and he found more fairways than ever by a wide margin.

“I just became a little more diligent with that stuff,” Theegala said of his gym work. “And part of it is also getting better with my 3-iron and a 4-wood off the tee. You know, those clubs have always been OK for me – 3-iron especially has been good for me.

“And I was like, why not really, really make it into a weapon?” he continued. “So, I added a couple new shots. A lot of them being lower shots.”

Hilarious reason why Sahith Theegala uses two 8-irons

While this initially led to back pain, he figured out a way to painlessly hit a stinger that would be less likely to be blown off course by the wind.

Meanwhile, Hunter implored Theegala to tone down the crazy shots; instead of aiming for the left rough and hitting a hard cut, he was to aim down the left side of the fairway and play a fade.

It would also be OK, the coach added, if he wanted to hit it straight every so often.

“When he was 13, he had a beautiful, classic swing, and all of a sudden, things changed because of his back,” Hunter said. “All I could do was help him with tempo. He would transition and crunch too much, and that’s when things got all over the place.

“Not until he turned pro three years ago did he really take fitness seriously,” Hunter added. “Josh and I teamed up on him. I said, ‘Josh, I can’t get Sahith to turn through the ball; can you help him turn the corner and rotate on back through the ball?’ That’s been a big, big help.”

Getting used to the new normal

Never a paint-by-numbers guy, Theegala was so comfortable playing from the rough, where he manufactured shots, that it took him a while to get used to the short grass.

What was he doing out there? And if he was hitting fairways, shouldn’t he be winning?

“It almost caught me off-guard,” said Theegala, who admits he hit some shockingly poor wedge and short-iron shots. “I was playing from the fairway more than I ever have.”

His caddie, Carl Smith, spent less time looking for balls but also had to help his boss adjust.

“It was almost like a blessing and a curse,” Smith said. “He was not used to playing as much out of the fairway as we did, so there were moments of frustration with it. You feel like every hole you have an opportunity, and maybe you don't hit a couple of wedges close, so …

“It’s funny; yes, in some cases, it was easier,” Smith continued. “But then at times it also led to frustration because the attitude was, 'Well, goodness, now we’re out of the fairway more often and therefore I should just be playing better all the time.'”

It all came together at the TOUR Championship, which was surprising, to say the least.

Theegala had injured his hand at the BMW Championship at Denver’s Castle Pines, where he missed the pro-am and required physical therapy just to be able to complete the tournament. He came in last among the 48 players who finished all four rounds.

He was still getting therapy on his hand at the TOUR Championship when he went to retrieve some clothes from his car and wrenched his back. Loyo worked on him that afternoon, but between his hand and back, Theegala still seemed iffy for Round 1 the next day.

“I looked at him right before he was supposed to tee off,” Hunter said, “and I said, ‘Forget what your body is doing. Just go play golf. That’s how you play best, anyway.’ And look what happened. He made 29 birdies. It’s the best overall week he’s played on TOUR.”

After starting the tournament seven behind top-seeded Scheffler, Theegala shot 21-under par, besting everyone but Collin Morikawa in the gross division.

“I’ve watched a lot of golf,” said Smith, who has caddied on the PGA TOUR for 10 years, “and at the TOUR Championship, it's probably some of the best golf I've seen. Not just him playing golf. It was some of the best golf I've seen anyone play.”

Told of this assessment, Theegala smiled, allowing that yes, it was his best.

In his title defense at the Procore in Napa, he was paired with Wyndham Clark and Max Homa. Those guys missed the cut; Theegala made it easily and finished T7. For the week, he hit more fairways than he had in victory the year before – seventh in Strokes Gained: Off The Tee – but was cold on the greens, only 31st in SG: Putting.

He'll want the total package for Royal Montreal and his Presidents Cup debut. As he steps out onto one of the biggest stages of his career, he’ll be cheered by Hunter, Loyo, Smith and his usual throng of supporters, led by his parents and extended family.

“He’s an entertainer and loves to compete,” Hunter said. “He wants the biggest games.”

Theegala, man of the fairway, is right where he’s meant to be.

Cameron Morfit is a Staff Writer for the PGA TOUR. He has covered rodeo, arm-wrestling, and snowmobile hill climb in addition to a lot of golf. Follow Cameron Morfit on Twitter .