Tower of London, Changing of the Guard, River Cruise, St. Paul's Cathedral & Optional London Eye

What does the Welcome to London tour include? See London at its best, from a private early morning visit to St Paul's Cathedral before the crowds arrive, to the pageantry of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Choose a morning tour for a taste of the city's icons, or go full day and continue into the afternoon with the Tower of London and a private Thames river cruise, finishing at the London Eye with the option to go up for the views.

Your Day's Itinerary

St Paul's Cathedral (First Entry of the Day)

Begin your day at St Paul's Cathedral, where you'll be among the first to enter before the crowds arrive. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, this architectural masterpiece has hosted some of Britain's most significant national events, including the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee service. On your guided visit, admire the magnificent interior and learn about the cathedral's history as you see the tombs of national heroes such as Admiral Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.

Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

Next, we travel to Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch and one of the city's most recognisable sights. When scheduled (subject to availability), you'll witness the Changing of the Guard, a classic display of British pageantry as the King's Guards, in their red tunics and bearskin hats, march to military music.

For guests on the morning tour, the experience concludes here, with free time afterwards for lunch; your guide is happy to suggest nearby places to eat.

The Tower of London

The afternoon continues with a visit to the Tower of London, one of Britain's most important historic sites. Founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror, the Tower has served as a royal residence, fortress and prison, and is now home to the spectacular Crown Jewels. Your guide will bring its dramatic past to life with stories of royal intrigue, imprisonment and power. You'll have time to view the Crown Jewels, explore the White Tower and walk the grounds at your own pace, including the Bloody Tower and Traitors' Gate.

Private Thames River Cruise

To complete your full day experience, relax on a private extended cruise along the River Thames, exclusive to Premium Tours guests. Enjoy outstanding views of London's riverside landmarks, including Tower Bridge, the Shard, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, St Paul's Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament, with engaging commentary from your guide.

Tour End and Optional Upgrades

The tour concludes at the London Eye, where you can choose to extend your experience with an optional flight for panoramic views across London. Alternatively, you can upgrade to a classic Cream Tea at Harrods on our Magic of London tour.

The London Eye

Rising 135 metres above the city, the London Eye offers breathtaking panoramic views across London's skyline. From the comfort of its spacious glass capsules, you'll enjoy a unique bird's eye perspective of world famous landmarks including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and St Paul's Cathedral, the perfect way to end your day of sightseeing.

What's Included

• First group entry to St Paul's Cathedral
• Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (subject to availability)
• Panoramic drive past London's iconic landmarks, including Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament
• Entry to the Tower of London, including time to view the Crown Jewels (full day tour only)
• Extended private Thames river cruise, exclusive to Premium Tours (full day tour only)
• London Eye ride (optional upgrade for full day tour)
• Expert professional guide for the entire tour
• Transportation by luxury air conditioned coach

What's Not Included

• Gratuities (optional)
• Lunch (time will be provided for a refreshment break)

Good to know

• The tour departs from Victoria Coach Station, Gates 19 to 20, at 7:45 am (boarding from 7:30 am).
• The full day tour finishes at the London Eye at approximately 4:30 pm.
• The morning tour includes entry to St Paul's Cathedral and the Changing of the Guard (subject to availability) and finishes at Buckingham Palace around 11:30 am.
• Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace currently takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday (subject to availability). If the ceremony is not scheduled, the tour will still stop for a photo opportunity outside or near the Palace.
• On Sundays there is no guiding inside St Paul's Cathedral due to church services.
• For the London Eye upgrade, it's a short walk from where you disembark the boat to the London Eye, crossing the river.
• Free cancellation and full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure.
• Please contact us to discuss the suitability of this tour for guests with disabilities or mobility difficulties.