The Very Best of London: Crown Jewels and Big Ben (Private)

Experience a full-day tour of London's spectacular landmarks with a private and knowledgeable Blue Badge guide.

**Tower of London** 
You start by visiting a spectacular castle. Here you will discover the many stories of one of the oldest buildings in London, and experience where some of the greatest events in English history occurred. Best of all, you will be able to admire the stunning Crown Jewels which are kept here behind extensive security in the aptly-named Jewel House.

**River Cruise and Lunch**

On leaving the Tower you will travel to Westminster by scenic river cruise. Travelling by river is the most relaxing (and often most efficient) way of getting through the centre of the city. You'll pass under London and Waterloo Bridge, spy the London Eye and view Somerset House on your right-hand side. After docking at Westminster Pier under the watchful gaze of Big Ben, your guide will recommend a number of restaurants and eateries where you can have a quick or leisurely lunch.

**Westminster and Buckingham Palace** 
The second half of the day will be dedicated to walking around Westminster and taking in the grandeur of Buckingham Palace.

First, you will be guided around the outside of the Houses of Parliament, with a lengthy stop outside Big Ben, and learn about the political history of Parliament Square. This will be followed by an exhibition of the outside of Westminster Abbey and, if time permits, you will be able to go inside (entrance tickets not included). This is London’s royal church which has been the site of 38 coronations and was where the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton took place. Your guide will then take you on a walk up Whitehall to No. 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister's residence, ending up at Trafalgar Square.

Finally, we will walk down to take in the view of Buckingham Palace and then up and down The Mall, where jubilant crowds have historically greeted news about the royal family in this scenic tree-lined avenue.