Tour Details

Magic of London and Tea

Begin the morning with a visit to St Paul's Cathedral, a masterpiece designed by Wren in 1673. This remarkable structure, with its epic dome towering above London, was rebuilt in the 17th century after the Great Fire of London. More recently it was the location of the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, as well as the Diamond Jubilee for Queen Elizabeth II. Highlights of the tour will include listening to the 1695 organ that Mendelssohn once played, and visiting the tombs of Nelson and Wellington.

From St. Paul's, you will make a photo stop outside Westminster Abbey before heading to The Mall to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Watch as one of the Queen's Foot Guard Household Regiments march from St. James Palace to Buckingham Palace to military music, dressed in their world-famous tunics and busbies. Free time will be taken for lunch.

After the lunch break, arrive at the Tower of London. Your Beefeater will lead you into this World Heritage site before it opens to the public, and take you on a private guided tour explaining the history behind this fortress of imprisonment and torture. You are also part of the first group to see the Crown Jewels. You will then have some free time to explore on your own. Why not visit Traitors Gate, the Armory, or the Bloody Tower? Keep an eye out for the famous ravens. Tradition has it that if the ravens leave the Tower, the monarchy will fall!

Next, take your seat for a cruise on the River Thames. Enjoy spectacular views as you glide down the Thames with this hour long cruise. The river offers the best perspective of a number of top attractions and sights. View The Houses of Parliament, The London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe, St Pauls, The Shard, The Tower of London, and Tower Bridge from the comfort of your seat. After your cruise, indulge in the epitome of British tradition with a cream tea. Afternoon tea includes a home-baked scone, clotted cream, exclusive preserves, and your choice of tea from the tea gardens. This is a London experience that cannot be missed! After tea, you are free to explore on your own.

Please Note: If the Changing of the Guard is not taking place, you will still see Buckingham Palace and then visit the Horse Guard's Parade. On Sundays, St. Paul's has restricted viewing, so guests will have the opportunity to enter and enjoy part of the service.

This tour departs from the Victoria Coach (Bus) Station, a 5-minute walk from the Victoria Train Station. This tour is intended for your pre/post cruise experience. Please be advised that the tour departure location is an approximately 2-hour drive from the port. You must find your own way to the tour departure location (at your own expense). There are many options, such as taking a taxi, train, bus, or any combination of the above.