What is the cancellation policy for this tour?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How long does this tour take?

This tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Westminster Abbey Tour with Guard Change & Big Ben

Q: Where does this tour start?

This tour starts at: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at Viscount Palmerston Statue, Parliament Sq, London SW1P 3JX.

★★★★⯨ 4.9

3 hours

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Overview

Immerse yourself in two iconic London experiences in one morning on this unforgettable tour. Begin your day with an up close view of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Your guide will lead you straight to the best vantage points and most secluded spots for a close-up peek at London’s most popular spectacle. Witness the ceremony from two different angles as your guide regales you with the unbelievable history of the iconic tradition. Then, while others stand in line, you’ll head straight into Westminster Abbey, where more than 10 centuries of history await. Hear tales of coronations, royal weddings, monarchs, soldiers, heroes, villains, and more as you explore England’s most important Gothic building with an expert guide.

Gallery

Westminster Abbey Tour with Guard Change & Big Ben — photo 1

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What's Included

✓ Included

Expertly guided walking tour
Expert Blue Badge Guide
Skip-the-queue access to Westminster Abbey

✗ Not Included

Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
Gratuities/Tips

Itinerary

Stop 1

Meet your guide and small group outside Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament to get a brief introduction into the history of this important area.

Stop 2

Get your camera ready and enjoy a view of this famous tower before your guided tour of Westminster Abbey. Your guide will share an overview of its history and how it became a symbol of London.

Stop 3

Catch the soldiers preparing for the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. While you wait, your expert guide will share what the guards' duties entail and the symbolism behind their eccentric uniforms. You'll march alongside the soldiers and head to a special vantage point that lets you get as close as possible to the action. Please Note: The 'Changing of the Guard' can be cancelled last minute due to bad weather, and does not take place every day. On days this ceremony does not take place, guests will see the King's Life Guard Change, Horse Guards Parade. Please also note that access to the panoramic viewpoint may be limited due to local events.

Stop 4

Discover the most important Gothic building in the country, with a rich history and an equally interesting present. Skip the line and head straight inside to hear stories of the significant historical events that have taken place here, along with details of the decor that can be hard to decipher on your own. See the Coronation Chair, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the High Altar, where many royal weddings have taken place. You’ll also visit the tombs of some of the most important figures in history, including Charles Darwin, Edward V, and Sir Isaac Newton.

Meeting & End Point

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Meeting Point

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at Viscount Palmerston Statue, Parliament Sq, London SW1P 3JX

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End Point

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets at Viscount Palmerston Statue, Parliament Sq, London SW1P 3JX

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Good to Know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
Please note: The Changing of the Guard occurs only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays we will bring you to the Horse Guard Ceremony and a walking tour of Westminster area. There are also times where the changing of the Guard will not go ahead without prior notice and this is due to last minute decision made by the palace, local authorities or bad weather.

Known For:

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Special Instructions

- Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. Out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
- Please note: The Changing of the Guard occurs only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays we will bring you to the Horse Guard Ceremony and a walking tour of Westminster area. There are also times where the changing of the Guard will not go ahead without prior notice and this is due to last minute decision made by the palace, local authorities or bad weather.
- Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
- Photography is not permitted inside Westminster Abbey.
- Please note that for security reasons bag searches will take place at Westminster Abbey.
- Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.