Description
The Tour:
The Tower of London: ...private tour before 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.*
*If the Changing of the Guard is not taking place you will still see Buckingham Palace and then visit the Horse Guards Parade.
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 in Whitehall, close to Downing Street, the residence of the Prime Minister (food/drink not included). After lunch we have a photo stop at Westminster Abbey.
St Pauls Cathedral
The afternoon part of the tour begins with a visit to St Pauls Cathedral. We shall explore this masterpiece designed by Wren in 1673, highlights of the tour will include listening to the 1695 organ that Mendelssohn once played and visit the tombs of Nelson and Wellington. With your professional guide test the unique acoustics of the Whispering Gallery (not normally visited by tour groups).On Sundays when there is restricted viewing at the Cathedral there will be an opportunity to enter and enjoy one of the services.
Afternoon Tea at Harrods
Then we head through Knightsbridge to one of the worlds most famous stores - Harrods where we finish our day with tea and scones served inside a the Terrace Bar. Tea includes tea, scones, jam and clotted cream. Why not end your day with a bit of shopping at this amazing store?
Notes
Sightseeing Details: This tour is sold on a reserved basis.
Meeting point: Departs from Gate 6, Victoria Coach Station. Courtesy morning pickups offered from many hotels. Call tour company for details
Ending point: At the end of the tour, passengers will be dropped off at a central location near their hotel or at a convenient tube stop. Tour ends at approximately 5:30 pm.
Year round:Operates Mon-Wed-Fri-Sat-Sun at 8:15 am
Blackout dates: No tours December 25 and 26, or January 1. April 26, May 12, June 20, St. Paul closed on 23 December.
Entrance fees: All entrances included; lunch is not included.
Child discount: Applies for children under 16. Infants under 3 are free but must ride in lap the entire trip as the coach cannot accommodate child seats.
Restrictions
Non-changeable and non-refundable once paid in full.
No tours December 25, 26, January 1
No tours Apr 6, 13 or Jun 14 (Queen's Birthday Parade) 2008.
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