London in a Day: Tower of London, Westminster & River Cruise

Start your day in the heart of historic Westminster, surrounded by some of London’s most recognisable landmarks. Take in Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament as your Blue Badge guide introduces the people, power and events that have shaped Britain from this extraordinary corner of the capital. Please note: Guests selecting London in a Day starting from the Tower option will visit the same attractions and enjoy the same inclusions as the standard tour, but in the reverse order, starting at the Tower of London and ending at Westminster Abbey.

Step inside Westminster Abbey, the magnificent setting for royal coronations since 1066 and the final resting place of kings, queens, poets and some of Britain’s most famous figures. With pre-reserved entry, explore the Abbey with your expert Blue Badge guide and discover the stories behind royal weddings, state funerals and centuries of British history,from the Coronation Chair to the tombs of monarchs and Poet’s Corner.

Walk through St. James’s Park to Buckingham Palace, the world-famous London residence of the British monarch. Hear the stories behind royal life at the palace. Your guide will also bring you to Horse Guards Parade for a glimpse of Britain’s centuries-old royal traditions.

Enter the ceremonial heart of royal London at Horse Guards Parade, home to the King’s Life Guard and one of the capital’s great military traditions. See the mounted guards on duty and discover the history behind the uniforms, rituals and pageantry that have protected the monarch for centuries.

Continue through the heart of central London to Trafalgar Square, dominated by Nelson’s Column and surrounded by landmarks that tell the story of Britain’s past. Along the way, your guide connects the royal, political and cultural history you’ve encountered throughout the morning before time to pause for lunch and recharge ahead of the afternoon’s adventures.

Give your feet a rest as you take to the Thames for a sightseeing cruise through the heart of London. See the city from a completely different perspective as you pass landmarks including the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral and The Shard, travelling east towards Tower Bridge and the final,and oldest, chapter of your day.

Finish your day inside the formidable Tower of London, a royal palace, prison and fortress with nearly 1,000 years of extraordinary history behind its walls. Follow your Blue Badge guide through stories of kings and queens, prisoners, executions and intrigue -from Anne Boleyn to the mysterious Princes in the Tower. Explore the medieval fortress and come face-to-face with its greatest treasure: the spectacular Crown Jewels, still used in royal ceremonies today.

Tower Bridge (exterior)

St James Palace (exterior)

Houses of Parliament (exterior)

Big Ben (view)

London Eye (view)

St Paul's Cathedral (view)

The Shard (view)