How to Plan Your Westminster Walking Tour and Shard Viewing Gallery Entry in London

How to Plan Your Westminster Walking Tour and Shard Viewing Gallery Entry in London

London, one of the most famous cities in Europe, is renowned for its fascinating history and its abundance of historical landmarks. One of the best ways to explore one of its most exquisite areas, the Westminster district, is by taking a walking tour accompanied by an entrance ticket to the Shard Viewing Gallery. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your Westminster Walking Tour and Shard Viewing Gallery Entry in London.

Overview of the Tour

With this tour, you can explore the most prominent landmarks of Westminster in a comprehensive walking tour. The tour has been designed to be both educational and exciting, making it the best experience to explore the area. During your three-hour walking tour, you will visit the top 20 tourist attractions around the Westminster area. Experienced local fun guides will provide commentary on the history of the area as you traverse through the narrow streets and see various points of interest. Once the walking tour is complete, you will proceed to the Shard Viewing Gallery to experience the city from above.

What is Included in the Tour?

The tour features the following inclusions:

Local Fun Guide

The tour comes with a professional guide to lead you throughout the entire walk, so you won’t get lost.

Walking Tour of the Top 20 Sights of London

The comprehensive three-hour walking tour covers the most notable landmarks of Westminster. You will get to see the famous Houses of Parliament, the imposing Big Ben clock tower, the majestic Buckingham Palace, and many more iconic landmarks.

The Shard Viewing Gallery Entrance Ticket

Your tour guide will provide you with an entrance ticket to the Shard Viewing Gallery, located next to London Bridge Station. You will have enough time to climb the observation deck and appreciate the panoramic views of the city from 800ft above sea level.

Small Group of Just 15 People for an Intimate Atmosphere

The tour is designed to be an intimate affair, ensuring that you can interact with your tour guide and ask questions whenever necessary. The small group size means that the guide can share insightful commentary, rather than carrying out a one-sided narrative.

Travel Card with at Least £5 (2 Rides)

You will need an Oyster card or a travel card to participate in the tour. Please ensure that you bring a minimum of £5 on your travel card to be able to participate in the tour seamlessly.

Food and Drinks (Please Bring Your Own Drinks & Packed Lunch)

Please carry enough food and drinks for the entire tour duration. The tour does not provide food and drinks and cannot guarantee many opportunities to purchase or dine in shops and restaurants.

Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off: Please Meet Us

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so please ensure that you can make your way to the meeting location on your own.

Booking the Tour

To book the Westminster Walking Tour and Shard Viewing Gallery Entry tour in London, please visit this link. You will be redirected to the Viator booking website, where you can secure your spot on the tour. In conclusion, the Westminster Walking Tour, and Shard Viewing Gallery Entry tour offered in London, is an incredible experience to explore the most remarkable area and landmarks of the city. It is an excellent way to explore the English capital city, make memories and perhaps even learn something new along the way. Make sure to plan well, book well, and you will have an amazing tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about London

1. What is London?

London is the capital city of England and the United Kingdom. Spanning over 600 square miles, it serves as the political, economic, cultural, and social hub not only of the UK but also of Europe.

2. What are some of the attractions that London has?

London is home to numerous attractions, including:

  • The Tower of London
  • The London Eye
  • The British Museum
  • The National Gallery
  • The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
  • Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard
  • The West End and theatres
  • The Tate Modern

3. What are the best times to visit London?

The best time to visit London is from March to May and from September to November. During these periods, the weather is relatively mild, and the crowds are not too large. However, London is a year-round destination, and there is always something to see and do.

4. How do I get around London?

London has an extensive public transport system, including the underground (also known as the Tube), buses, trains, and the DLR (Docklands Light Railway). You can also use taxis, bike rentals, and walking to get around the city.

5. What is the currency used in London?

The currency used in London, and the UK as a whole, is the pound sterling (GBP).

6. What are some of the best restaurants in London?

London is home to many excellent restaurants, including:

Restaurant Name Cuisine Location
The Ledbury Modern European Notting Hill
Dishoom Indian Various Locations
Hakkasan Chinese Mayfair
The Wolseley British and European Mayfair
Ikoyi African St. James’s Market

7. Is London an expensive city to visit?

London can be an expensive city to visit, particularly in terms of accommodation and dining. However, there are many free attractions, such as museums and parks, that you can visit. You can also save money by using public transport instead of taxis and eating at more affordable restaurants.

8. What is the weather like in London?

London has a temperate maritime climate, which means that the weather can be changeable and can vary from day-to-day. In general, the summers are mild, and the winters are chilly. The average temperature is around 10°C (50°F) in winter and 20°C (68°F) in summer.

9. What should I pack when visiting London?

You should pack appropriate clothing for the season, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella, as it can rain at any time in London. You may also want to bring a camera, as there are many photo opportunities in the city.

10. What are some of the best areas to stay in London?

There are many great areas to stay in London, depending on your preferences and interests. Some popular areas include:

  • Covent Garden
  • Notting Hill
  • Soho
  • South Kensington
  • The West End

11. What are some of the best museums to visit in London?

London is home to many excellent museums, including:

  • The British Museum
  • The Tate Modern
  • The National Gallery
  • The Science Museum
  • The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

12. How do I get from London to other cities in the UK?

You can get to other cities in the UK from London by train or coach. London has several major train stations, including Kings Cross, Euston, and Paddington. There are also several coach companies that provide regular services to other parts of the UK.

13. What are some of the best parks to visit in London?

London has many beautiful parks, including:

  • Hyde Park
  • Kensington Gardens
  • Regents Park
  • Greenwich Park
  • Richmond Park

14. What are some of the best shopping areas in London?

London is home to many great shopping areas, including:

  • Oxford Street
  • Bond Street
  • Covent Garden
  • The Westfield Shopping Centre
  • Camden Market

15. Do I need a visa to visit London?

If you are a citizen of a country that is a member of the European Union or the European Economic Area, you do not need a visa to visit London. If you are a citizen of a country outside these regions, you may need a visa. You should check with your embassy or consulate before booking your trip.

Book Your Tour Now

London is an exciting and vibrant city, with much to see and do. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nightlife, you will find plenty to enjoy in this cosmopolitan metropolis. By following the advice in this FAQ, you can make your visit to London both enjoyable and memorable.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in London

London is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse culture, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this incredible city. However, with so many options, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the top things to do in London, whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay.

1. Visit the Major Landmarks

When you think of London, landmarks such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London likely immediately come to mind. Make sure to put these iconic sites on your itinerary. You can take a guided tour or explore them on your own. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Big Ben

One of the most recognizable landmarks in London is Big Ben, the nickname for the clock tower at the Palace of Westminster. Don’t miss the opportunity to snap a photo of this iconic timepiece. Note that at the moment, it is under repair and covered, but it is still worth a visit.

Buckingham Palace

The official residence of the monarch, Buckingham Palace, is a must-see landmark. While the exterior is impressive, you can also take a guided tour to explore the interior and see the changing of the guards.

Tower of London

With a history dating back over a thousand years, the Tower of London is a fascinating spot to visit. Be sure to see the Crown Jewels, take a tour with the Yeoman Warders, and learn about the tower’s history as a royal palace, prison, and treasury.

2. Explore the Museums

London is home to numerous world-class museums, many of which are free to visit. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, you’re sure to find a museum that suits your interests.

The British Museum

The British Museum is one of the most famous and largest museums in the world. With a collection of over eight million artifacts spanning human history from all over the world, you’ll need to plan ahead to make sure you don’t miss anything.

The National Gallery

If you’re an art lover, you need to visit the National Gallery, which houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of Western European paintings. Here you can see works from artists such as Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Monet.

The Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum, also known as the V&A, is the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design. You can find artwork and artifacts ranging from fashion and jewelry to ceramics and furniture.

3. Experience London’s Food and Drink Scene

London has an incredibly diverse food and drink scene, with options ranging from traditional pub grub to Michelin-starred restaurants. Take some time to explore the city’s culinary offerings.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is a British tradition that you don’t want to miss. Indulge in tea, scones, and finger sandwiches at one of London’s top tea rooms, such as the iconic Ritz hotel’s Palm Court.

Street Food Markets

London’s street food markets are a great place to sample a range of cuisines from around the world. Head to markets such as Borough Market or Camden Market for a feast for your taste buds.

Gastropubs

For a taste of traditional British cuisine, head to a gastropub, where you can enjoy dishes such as fish and chips or a hearty Sunday roast. The Anchor & Hope, The Harwood Arms, and The Bull & Last are popular gastropubs worth checking out.

4. See a Show in the West End

The West End is London’s answer to Broadway. With numerous theaters showcasing everything from long-running productions to the latest musical hits, there’s something for every theatergoer. Be sure to check out ticket availability ahead of time and book early.

5. Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Despite being a bustling city, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy London’s green spaces.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest parks, spanning over 350 acres. Take a stroll, rent a pedal boat on the Serpentine, or enjoy a picnic on the vast green lawns.

Regent’s Park

Regent’s Park is another beautiful park offering numerous attractions, including the London Zoo and the Open Air Theatre. Take a stroll and enjoy the stunning rose garden or rent a boat on the lake.

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is located in southeast London and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Don’t miss the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian line.

Book Your Tour Now

Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or theater, London has something to offer every tourist. Make the most of your time in this incredible city by planning your itinerary ahead, and you’ll ensure that you make the most of your visit to London.

Remember to book tickets and reservations ahead of time where possible, and always be prepared for the unpredictable London weather. Follow these tips, and you’ll have an unforgettable stay in the capital of the United Kingdom!

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How to Plan Your Westminster Walking Tour and Shard Viewing Gallery Entry in London