Start your adventure at the Tower of London, where your friendly guide will welcome you and share the day’s itinerary. Get ready for an exciting river cruise and discover amazing sights including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, The Royal Parks, Buckingham Palace, and much more!
At the conclusion of the tour, your guide leaves you to explore Kensington Palace, and the royal residence independently.
Historic Royal Day Tour details
Tower of London
In its time the Tower of London has been a royal palace, a fortress, a prison, an armoury, a treasury and an astronomical observatory. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066-7 and enlarged and modified by successive sovereigns. Today the Tower of London is one of the world’s most famous and spectacular fortresses.
Your tour begins here, at the iconic Tower of London, where you can explore the Tower Mint and visit Tower Green, a historic location for executions and hangings. Check out Traitors Gate and The Bloody Tower, which housed some of the Tower’s most infamous prisoners.
Crown Jewels
The main attractions include the Crown Jewels, and the fascinating history linked to the Tower’s function as a prison for significant historical figures, often leading to public executions.
White Tower
Almost 1,000 years old, and instantly recognisable, the White Tower is probably the most famous castle keep in the world – and consequently, it has been designated it as a World Heritage Site.
Medieval Palace: Open from 23rd May 2025
The Tower of London’s Medieval Palace that once hosted kings and queens has been re-imagined in a new permanent display opening in the summer of 2025.
Bringing guests back to the 13th century with engaging stories, interactive experiences, and fresh multisensory exhibits.
Tower Remembers 2025 – 06 May to 11 November
Experience a stunning and unique display of approximately 30,000 ceramic poppies celebrating the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II.
Visit our Tower of London page for more information.
Thames Cruise
Next take a delightful cruise along the River Thames to Westminster Pier. Enjoy views of Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.
Westminster Pier is located right across from the stunning Palace of Westminster and the famous Big Ben.
Suggestions for lunch in the Westminster and St James area, known for its diverse global cuisine.
Westminster and St James
Westminster presents a captivating blend of historic landmarks, some of the oldest institutions in the world, lovely parks, and modern dining options, making it an exciting place to explore in London.
St James is a lively mix of history and culture, featuring unique boutiques, art galleries, and designer shops. It’s framed by the iconic Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Green Park, and Buckingham Palace, which will be the next destination on the tour.
Royal Parks Walk to Kensington Palace
Discover the stunning and historic Royal Parks, stretching about 3 miles from St James Park to Kensington Palace, with a visit to the impressive Buckingham Palace and Queen Victoria Memorial, perfect for snapping unforgettable photos of these iconic sites.
Being historic places there are many statues, fountains, stonework and other artworks, all being carefully preserved and managed for the future, and waiting for you to discover.
Each park has its own character:
St James Park
The oldest of the Royal Parks features Duck Island, St James’s Park Lake, and its resident pelicans. From Blue Bridge, you can enjoy views of the London Eye, Horse Guards Parade, and Buckingham Palace.
Green Park
The smallest of the Royal Parks. Green Park is tranquil area with gentle rolling grassland vibrant meadows filled with wildflowers, and tree-lined paths. Instead of formal flower beds, this space invites you to appreciate the peace whilst enjoying the songs of birds visiting the park.
Hyde Park
One of the grandest of the Royal Parks, enter Hyde Park through Wellington Arch. Take in the picturesque Serpentine lake, where swans and various wildlife thrive. Stroll along winding paths, breathe in the fragrance of rose gardens, and visit the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.
Kensington Gardens
Transitioning from Hyde Park to the beautifully landscaped Kensington Gardens, you’ll find famous sites like the Albert Memorial and the stunning Italian Gardens, which boast intricate fountains and statues.
The walk culminates at Kensington Palace, former home of Princess Diana and current residence of other royals including the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Visit Kensington Palace
Consider adding a trip to Kensington Palace to your itinerary. It’s an optional stop on the tour, but definitely a worthwhile experience while you’re in London.
Nestled at the western boundary of Kensington Gardens, seamlessly extending from Hyde Park. Explore the vast state apartments adorned with beautiful paintings and sculptures.
History
Kensington Palace has a rich royal history. Moreover, It can boast of being the birth place of Queen Victoria as well as the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
In addition, it is noteworthy that it has been the home of a host of Georgian monarchs who have all left their mark on this impressive Palace.
With lavish rooms and State Apartments you can admire exquisite pieces of art from the Royal Collection as well as royal treasures to be found in the Jewel Room.
Gardens
Stroll through the beautiful and well-loved Kensington Palace Gardens, which showcase the stunning Sunken Garden. This garden is home to the statue of Diana, Princess of Wales, a tribute commissioned by her sons and revealed in 2021 to honour what would have been her 60th birthday. Please note that specific opening times are in effect.
Visit our Kensington Palace page for more information.
Length of tour: Approximately 6 hours
Nearest tube station: Tower Hill, Circle and District Lines (5 minute walk)