Westminster Abbey Tour with Guard Change & Big Ben
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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.
Available options
Skip the line Westminster Abbey Tour & Queen's Jubilee Galleries
What's included
Expertly guided walking tour
Expert Blue Badge Guide
Skip-the-queue access to Westminster Abbey
Detailed itinerary
1
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.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
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.
3
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.
4
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.
What's not included
Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
Gratuities/Tips
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
39 reviews
5★
35
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
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.
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
Important notes
- 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.
About London
London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and dynamic cultural scene. From the ancient Tower of London to the modern Shard, the city offers a blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
Tower of London
A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. It has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and treasury. The Crown Jewels are also housed here.
Historical
2-3 hours
£28 (adult ticket)
Buckingham Palace
The official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms during the summer.
Historical
1-2 hours
£27.50 (adult ticket for State Rooms)
The British Museum
One of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free (special exhibitions may have a charge)
The London Eye
A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city.
Entertainment
30 minutes
£27-£33 (adult ticket)
Westminster Abbey
A large, mainly Gothic abbey church just to the west of the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the most notable religious buildings in the UK and the traditional place of coronation and burial for English and, later, British monarchs.
Religious
1-2 hours
£27 (adult ticket)
Tower Bridge
An iconic symbol of London, this combined bascule and suspension bridge spans the River Thames. Visitors can explore the bridge's walkways and the Tower Bridge Exhibition.
Architecture
1-2 hours
£11 (adult ticket for the exhibition)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish and Chips
A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries).
Dinner
Contains gluten and fish
Full English Breakfast
A hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.
Breakfast
Contains meat and gluten
Afternoon Tea
A quintessential British tradition involving a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries, all served with tea.
Snack
Can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets
Sunday Roast
A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.
Dinner
Contains meat and gluten
Popular Activities
Rock climbing
Kayaking on the Thames
Cycling tours
Afternoon tea
Spas and wellness centers
Punting on the River Cam
Museum visits
Theater performances
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in London, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and events. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be unpredictable.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
London is generally safe for travelers, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Heathrow Airport • 23 km from city center
- Gatwick Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
London Waterloo, London King's Cross
By bus
Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, Farringdon
Getting around
Public transport
The Tube is the fastest and most efficient way to get around London. It operates from early morning until late at night and covers all major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Westminster
Camden Town
Soho
Notting Hill
Shoreditch
Greenwich
Day trips
Windsor Castle
34 km from London • Half day to full day
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's one of the official residences of the British monarch.
Stonehenge
130 km from London • Full day
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, located in the English county of Wiltshire.
Brighton
80 km from London • Full day
Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, lively atmosphere, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Festivals
Notting Hill Carnival • Last Sunday and Monday of August
London Film Festival • October
New Year's Eve Fireworks • December 31
Pro tips
- Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for cheaper and more convenient public transportation
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions to skip the queue and save money
- Explore the city's neighborhoods and markets for a unique and authentic experience
- Try the local street food and international cuisine at markets like Borough Market and Camden Market
- Visit the city's parks and gardens for a peaceful escape from the bustling streets
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
