 Tower of London - private tour away from the crowds
Following our coach drive past some of Londons most famous landmarks including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament we arrive at the Tower of London where we are met on the middle drawbridge by our very own Yeoman Warder. Leading us into this world heritage site before it opens to the public our Beefeater will take us on a private guided tour explaining the history behind this fortress of imprisonment and torture. we are also the first group to see the Crown Jewels before enjoying some free time to explore on our own. Why not visit Traitors Gate, the armouries or the Bloody Tower? And keep an eye out for the famous Ravens. Tradition has it that if the Ravens leave the Tower the monarch will fall!
Changing of the Guard
Departing the Tower we head to The Mall to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony as one of the Queens Foot Guard Household Regiments march from St. James Palace to Buckingham Palace to military music dressed in their world famous tunics and busbies.*
Thames River Cruise and Pub Lunch
Next we enjoy a short cruise on the River Thames as we enjoy excellent views of St. Pauls Cathedral and Shakespeares Globe before heading for a traditional pub lunch on the Southbank (food/drink not included)
Westminster Abbey
The first part of our afternoon tour begins with a visit to Westminster Abbey with our fast entry voucher and which presents us with a unique pageant of British history - the Confessors Shrine, the tombs of the Kings and Queens, and countless memorials to the famous and the great. Our professional guide will take you through this architectural masterpiece that has been the setting for every Coronation since 1066 and for numerous Royal occasions.
Afternoon at Kensington Palace
Then we head through Knightsbridge past one of the worlds most famous stores - Harrods, before heading through the Gardens of Kensington Palace to one of Londons hidden treasures. The Orangery at Kensington Palace was built for Queen Anne in 1704 and is a delightful building that is now famous for its fabulous hospitality. We finish our day with a Champagne tea served inside the Orangery that includes tea, scones, jam, clotted cream and a glass of Champagne while you hear about life in the Palace where Queen Victoria and Princess Diana lived.
*If the Changing of the Guard is not taking place you will still see Buckingham Palace and then visit the Horse Guards Parade
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