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Lady’s Free Self-Guided Westminster Walk in London

Today I want to share another of my London walks with you. This self-guided walking tour in Westminster hits the big attractions and the undiscovered side streets. If you want to see the best of the area, read on for A Lady in London’s Westminster walk. There’s a map, too.

Westminster, London

In the heart of London, Westminster is home to the Houses of Parliament , Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and other landmarks . It’s also full of hidden courtyards, quiet streets, and pretty houses.

This London neighborhood is a great place to explore to get a feel for both the big attractions and the little details that make the UK capital an exciting place.

Westminster Walk

My self-guided Westminster walk will guide you through the most beautiful streets, monuments, and squares in the area. From historic churchyards to soaring spires, it will give you a full picture of what there is to love about this part of the city.

There are plenty of cafes and pubs along the route, so feel free to stop for a break if you need to.

Self-Guided London Walking Tour

This most historic of London walks begins at Westminster station. You can get there by tube, bus, or boat (Westminster Pier is just around the corner).

When you arrive, make your way to the station exit to start. Once there, look up to take in Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower.

After you’ve gotten a good look, turn right and walk down Bridge Street to Parliament Square.

Spend some time walking around the square and taking in the statues of famous historical figures, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.

When you’re done, head up Broad Sanctuary to the front of Westminster Abbey. You can visit the church if you want to, or enter Dean’s Yard via a street called The Sanctuary in front of the abbey.

Dean’s Yard is a great secret courtyard next to the church. It’s a peaceful place away from the big crowds, and the historic architecture is worth admiring.

Take a turn around it, then exit through the covered walkway at the opposite end from where you entered. You’ll soon find yourself on the corner where Great College Street and Tufton Street meet.

Continue your Westminster walk by turning left to go down Great College Street. Soon you’ll reach Barton Street. Turn right here and follow it as it curves around and becomes Cowley Street.

This is one of the prettiest streets in the area, so make sure to look both in front of you and behind you to take everything in.

Follow Cowley Street as it bends again, crossing Great Peter Street as it becomes Lord North Street. This road is lined with pretty houses and will lead you to Smith Square.

The church of St John’s Smith Square dominates the scene here, but the surrounding buildings are worth a look as well.

Once you’ve walked around the square, your Westminster walk continues down Dean Stanley Street. This short road will take you to Victoria Tower Gardens, a green space with views of the River Thames and Victoria Tower.

You can walk around the park for as long as you want to, then head up Great College Street. Don’t miss the gardens and views of the Jewel Tower as you go.

From Great College Street, turn left on Little College Street, then right on Great Peter Street. Take in the historic architecture while you walk, then turn left on Gayfere Street.

This pretty road will take you back to Smith Square, where you can continue straight. Follow the square and take your first right on Dean Trench Street.

When Dean Trench Street ends, turn left on Tufton Street. At the end of Tufton Street, cross Horseferry Road where it’s safe and walk through St John’s Gardens to get to Page Street.

The gardens have pretty details to take in, so make sure to look out for them.

Turn right on Page Street and continue along it until it ends. After you cross over Marsham Street, you’ll find yourself surrounded by modern buildings with checkerboard patterns.

At the end of Page Street, turn left on Regency Street, then take a quick right on Fynes Street. Fynes Street will bring you into Vincent Square, a pretty green space surrounded by historic buildings.

Walk along Vincent Square until it meets Rochester Row. When you get there, cross the street where it’s safe and continue straight on Emery Hill Street.

Emery Hill Street has pretty architecture, and the views down the side streets are worth taking in.

When you reach Francis Street, turn left. You’ll pass a historic pub called the Windsor Castle on your left as you go. It’s a fun one to pop into for a drink or just a look around.

Afterwards, continue your Westminster walk by turning right down Ambrosden Avenue. Here you’ll be surrounded by candy-cane stripes on both sides of the street.

If you look up and to the left, you’ll see the towering form of Westminster Cathedral.

When you get to the end of the street, turn left to enter the square in front of the cathedral. You can go into the church for a poke around or to climb the tower for views over London.

When you’re done, walk down Ashley Place, then turn right on Carlisle Place. Follow it to where it meets Victoria Street and turn left. You’ll see Little Ben, Big Ben’s sibling, in the roundabout.

Head over to take a look, then turn left down Wilton Road to reach Victoria Station. Your self-guided Westminster walk ends here.

Westminster Walking Tour Details

Map of the first half of the walk: https://goo.gl/maps/NDW7ozWAUZhFcbzc7

Map of the second half of the walk: https://goo.gl/maps/i9RwGe67HJyKrDZU8

Further afield: Victoria , Pimlico , South Bank , Buckingham Palace

I’ve published more London walks and compiled them all in my London walking tours blog post.

There are additional walks to explore in London’s Hidden Walks , too. You can get it here . There are further ideas in my London walking books post as well.

I’ve also put all my central London walks into one convenient blog post. You can use it to find more walks near Westminster if you want to. Happy walking!

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4 Comments on Lady’s Free Self-Guided Westminster Walk in London

I’ll be in London at the end of September and am excited to try this walk. Thank you! I love all of your posts and pictures.

I’m so glad to hear that!

2023 and this continues to be helpfull. Thank you!

You’re welcome!

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Westminster Walking Tour | Royal London

Tour Information

Royal westminster, royal westminster highlights.

• St. James's Palace
• Buckingham Palace
• The Changing of the Guard **
• The Houses of Parliament
• Westminster Abbey
• 10 Downing St.
• Churchill War Rooms
• St. James's Park
• and much more!

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SEE OUR FULL TOUR SELECTION HERE

It is astounding that this small area of Westminster is home to many of London’s most iconic structures. and milestones in the history of the city.

It's a testament to the might and majesty of British royalty, military, and democracy.

And we are going to introduce you to each and every one!

Join Free Tours by Foot as we travel through 1000 years of British history and introduce you to the characters who have shaped the history and modernity of London.

We'll see royal palaces, King's Guard soldiers, picturesque parks, beautiful buildings, and the most famous clock in the world!

Come with us on our flagship tour of beautiful, wonderful, royal Westminster! 

Also available as an anytime GPS-enabled audio tour .

Sites and topics we cover on the tour:

• The Changing of the Guard**

**The Changing of the Guard takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

The schedule is always subject to change, so we can't guarantee that any scheduled change takes place.  

Tour information

Reservations:   Click here to reserve .

Where:   The tour starting point depends on the day of the week. Please refer to the tour description.

The tour ends at Parliament Square or Trafalgar Square, depending on the guide.

Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours.

When:   Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 10:00, or   anytime with our GPS-enabled audio tour .

Cost: This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A name-your-own-price tour is a tour for any budget.

Be sure to check out our other tours in London .

And much, much more

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Free Self-Guided London Westminster Walking Tour

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

The City of Westminster is one of the best boroughs in London. Packed with classic sights, grand architecture, dazzling memorials and intriguing museums, it’s a must-see district for London visitors. The best way to explore is on foot – and we have created the best Self Guided Westminster Walking Tour to help you find your way to the top attractions. 

Free Self Guided London Westminster Walking Tour

London is massive in just about every way: size, history, and culture. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by the numerous sights around the city, we think it is best to focus sightseeing on specific neighborhoods.

In this Self-Guided Walking Tour of London we detail the most iconic neighborhood, the City of Westminster. 

The bite-sized district is fun to explore – and with our Free Walking Tour Westminster London, you can easily route your way to the best sights. 

London Westminster Sights

Westminster is an ideal place to begin self-guided London walks. In fact, we think it is the first district visitors should explore when they arrive in the city. Beginning your London sightseeing with a Westminster Walk allows you to see the highlights of London, as well as get your bearings. 

We organized our Self-Guided Walking Tour of London into an easy-to-follow walk that passes by the top London attractions. 

Some of the most famous sights that we include in the Self Guided Walking Tour London Westminster Route are Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Parliament and the Thames Riverside. We also feature a few of the best museums to visit in the district. 

Plus, at the end of the post, we highlight where to eat in Westminster – featuring a few quintessentially British Food in London .

There are enough Westminster sights to see to fill an entire day of London sightseeing – but the Walking Tour of Westminster itself takes just a couple of hours. 

Self-Guided Walks in London Westminster Borough FAQs

London is a well-organized, flat city – so it’s easy to see the sights on foot. Sidewalks are wide, people are courteous and signs are clearly displayed – all of which make a Self-Guided London Tour in Westminster a fun way to visit the top attractions.

What Info is Included in the Walking Tour Westminster?

Our DIY Westminster Walking Tour of London features the must-see sights in the district. For each sight along the route, we include a brief description, helpful information and useful tips. 

Is There a Westminster London Walking Tour Map?

Yes! To help visitors get from sight-to-sight on our Westminster London Self-Guided Walking Tour, we have included a link to Google Maps for each location.

To use the links during your Self Guided Westminster Walk, you will need WiFi. We share tips about the best options for WiFi abroad – as well as other things you will need for you walk – later in the article. 

Additionally, at the end of the post, we provide a useful Walking Tour of London Map (which can be printed!). 

How Many Sights are there in the Self-Guided Walking Tour London Westminster Route?

In our Walking Tour of Westminster, we include more than 20 sights along the walk – and offer more sightseeing suggestions within the district, too. 

Some of the attractions on our Westminster London Walking Tour self guided route can be entered – and some require a ticket. You will need to determine whether or not to visit the attractions based on your time, interests and budget. 

It is also important to note that some of the sights featured in our Self-Guided Walking Tour London Westminster District are technically outside the boundaries of the Westminster Borough. However, due to the close proximity, we include them in our Walk of Westminster for the best sightseeing route.

Are There Guided Westminster London Walking Tours Free ?

Yes, there are free walking tours in London led by local guides. Visitors who are looking for a Guided Free Walking Tour London can use one of the many companies that provide the tours.

Just be aware that guides of Free London Walks expect – and likely deserve – monetary compensation. And, if you are paying a tip, then it is not really free!

Travelers can also opt to join a paid guided tour of Westminster – some tours even include entry into the Westminster Abbey. Find more details . 

On the other hand, self-guided walking tours – without a guide – are an excellent way to get acquainted with the city! We offer our London Walking Tour Self-Guided completely free of charge. Simply use this free London Walking Tour to route your way through the Westminster district to the highlighted sights. 

Whether you are budget savvy or just like touring at your own pace, we are sharing how to tour London on your own in our self-guided walk. 

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Free London Walking Tour to plan your vacation to the UK!

Self-Guided Walking Tour London City of Westminster

Begin your self-guided London walking tour in one of the city’s most cherished parks: Hyde Park. 

#1 Hyde Park

MAP . Hyde Park marks the beginning of your Westminster London Self Guided Walking Tour. 

Hyde Park, one of the Royal Parks in London, was established in 1536 by Henry VIII as hunting grounds. The park opened to the public in 1637. Since then, it has been the site of exhibitions, duels, demonstrations, rock concerts and the London Winter Wonderland Christmas Market .

The park is crisscrossed by walking paths, has two ponds, several statues and numerous memorials (including the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain in the center of the park).

On the west end of the park is Kensington Palace (which can be entered for a fee). Marking the northeast corner of the park is the grand Marble Arch and, on the southeast corner, is the Wellington Arch. 

Make your way through Hyde Park from west to east, ending at the Wellington Arch. 

Pro Tip : Hyde Park is huge! Visitors short on time can limit their exploration to the southeast corner, where there are fountains, statues and the Rose Garden.

#2 Wellington Arch

MAP . The Wellington Arch was completed in 1830 to celebrate the British victories during the Napoleonic Wars. It has been moved and statues have been switched out, but it still stands as a triumphant arch.

For a small fee, it is possible to go inside the arch.

#3 Buckingham Palace  

MAP . Buckingham Palace is a must see sight that features on all of the best Self Guided London Walks. 

Built in 1705, the Royal Family has resided in Buckingham Palace since 1837, when Queen Victoria moved there from James’s Palace. The grand size – 355 feet by 393 feet with 775 rooms, including 78 bathrooms – is more impressive than the architectural design.

Pro Tip : Buckingham Palace is open to visitors, but only on certain dates and tickets should be purchased in advance. 

#4 Queen Victoria Memorial

MAP . You don’t have to go far to see the next sight on our Self Guided Tour London Westminster Walk, because right in front of the Buckingham Palace gate is the grandiose Queen Victoria Memorial. 

Facing The Mall (the road that leads from the palace to Trafalgar Square), the Queen Victoria Memorial honors the British Empire. Featuring Queen Victoria in marble, the memorial also includes the Angel of Justice and the Angel of Truth.

#5 Changing of the Guard 

MAP . A highlight for many tourists is the renowned Buckingham Palace Changing of the Guard. During the ceremonious shift change, the red-coated soldiers with their tall furry hats parade to and from the palace grounds. 

Visitors may want to time their visit to coincide with the Changing of the Guard, which is free to watch. For more information, go to the official site .

Note : The next four sights on our London Westminster Walking Tour are seen on a detour to the south of Buckingham Palace. The route circles back around to the palace. Therefore, travelers short on time (or not interested in the sights listed), can simply continue from Buckingham Palace to St. James’ Park, which is #10 on our list. 

#6 The Queen’s Gallery

MAP . Housing artwork from the Royal Collection, The Queen’s Gallery is an exceptional museum at Buckingham Palace. The ever-changing rotation of exhibits are open to the public, but a ticket is required for entry. 

#7 The Royal Mews

MAP . The Buckingham Palace Royal Mews is the central hub of transport for the Royal Family – including everything from cars to carriages. 

Visitors can tour the Royal Mews (with a ticket) to get a peek at the luxurious coaches that are used for ceremonies (including the grand Gold State Coach that is more than 260 years old). 

#8 Little Ben Clock and Victoria Palace Theatre

MAP . Small and way less famous than Big Ben (which we see later on the Walking Tour in Westminster), Little Ben is a free-standing, cast iron clock tower that stands in front of the Victoria Palace Theater. The clock dates to the year 1892 and is featured on the National Heritage List for England. 

Victoria Palace Theatre – a London West End theater – was built in 1910 and is a Grade II historic building. Originally, it was known for hosting variety shows, but now is best known for musicals. 

#9 Westminster Cathedral

MAP . Not to be confused with Westminster Abbey (which we visit later in our walk), the Westminster Cathedral is a stunning red-and-white brick neo-Byzantine church. 

Built in the late 1800s and opened in 1903, the Cathedral serves as the Mother Church for the Catholic Church of England and Wales. The massive church – one of the largest in the world – features ornate chapels, intricate mosaics and marble columns. 

No ticket are required to go inside. Visiting the Cathedral is one of the free things to do in Westminster London! 

#10 St. James’ Park

MAP . Lining the south side of the The Mall thoroughfare from Buckingham Palace nearly all the way to Trafalgar Square is the pleasant, peaceful and pretty St. James’s Park. It is the oldest of the 8 Royal Parks.

The grounds used to be marshland, but now provide open space and benches for Londoners and tourists to play, picnic and rest.

In addition to seeing the flower gardens and lake, park visitors can walk along part of the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk (more info here ), cross the Blue Bridge for fantastic views and try to spot one of the famous resident pelicans. 

Pro Tip : After seeing the park, exit on the north side to The Mall. Visitors can cross The Mall and walk north on Marlborough Rd to get a glimpse of St. James’s Palace. It was built in the 1530s and served as the royal residence prior to Buckingham Palace. The nearby St. James’s Square is another pretty place to see on the north side of The Mall.

#11 The Mall

MAP . The Mall is the road that connects Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square. Lined with the colorful Union Jack (the national flag of the United Kingdom), the road is the site of ceremonial processions. 

Walk northeast on The Mall (the opposite direction of Buckingham Palace) to the Admiralty Arch, which is the next stop on our Westminster London Walking Tour route. 

#12 Admiralty Arch

MAP . At the east end of The Mall, the Admiralty Arch marks the entrance into Trafalgar Square. The arch was built in 1912 and dedicated to Queen Victoria.

Ceremonial processions often begin under the arches and proceed down the Mall to Buckingham Palace. For many years, the Admiralty Arch was used for government offices, but it has now been transformed into a luxury hotel. 

#13 Trafalgar Square

MAP . The expansive Trafalgar Square was built to celebrate the victory at The Battle of Trafalgar. Now, it is a gathering place for tourists, street performers and artists.

The famous London square is home to many sights and monuments – including Nelson’s Column, The National Gallery and St.-Martin-In-The-Fields Church…all of which we detail next in our Self Guided Walking Tour of London Westminster. 

#14 Nelson’s Column

MAP . The focal point of Trafalgar Square is Nelson’s Column, which was built to honor Admiral Horatio Nelson, who is credited for the victory in the Battle of Trafalgar (although he died in the conflict).

The monument was built in the 1840s. Sitting at 169 feet tall, the base is guarded by four lion statues and features bronze reliefs that tell the story of the battle. 

#15 The National Gallery

MAP . One of the best London museums, The National Gallery displays artwork from the 13th to 20th centuries. The museum was founded in 1824 and displays more than 2,300 works of art. The collection includes masterpieces by van Gogh and da Vinci (among many other masters!).

The best part is that the museum is completely free to visit! 

#16 St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church

MAP . Situated on the northeast corner of Trafalgar Square is the quaint St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church. The church was built in 1724 and is known for helping the homeless.

The Crypt houses a café that serves affordable food and there are regular concerts at the church to raise funds. It is free to enter!

Pro Tip: North of Trafalgar Square is Leicester Square, the well-known entertainment district in the city. London Chinatown is also nearby and worth a detour if time allows. 

#17 Whitehall London

MAP . Whitehall is the main road that connects Trafalgar Square to Parliament Square. Home to numerous government entities, the name Whitehall is often used to refer to the United Kingdom government as a whole.

In addition to the many government offices that line Whitehall, there are several interesting sights and monuments along the road – which we highlight next in our Self Guided Tour of London Westminster.

#18 Horse Guards Building & Household Cavalry Museum

MAP . Built in 1753, the Horse Guards Building houses the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

The Household Cavalry Museum sits on the grounds and is open to the public (ticket required). At 10:50am (or at 9:50am on Sundays), crowds gather around the entrance to watch the changing of the guard.

#19 10 Downing Street

MAP . Number 10 Downing Street is the official residence and office of the Prime Minister. Although impossible to get close to, it’s fun to look through the gates and past the coppers for a glimpse.

#20 The Cenotaph and Whitehall Memorials

Several statues stand in the center of the Whitehall roadway. From north to south, the statues to look for are George Duke of Cambridge, Earl Haig Memorial, the Women of World War II and the Cenotaph.

The Cenotaph ( MAP ) is a prominent war memorial that is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives during World War I, World War II and other British conflicts. 

Just south of the Cenotaph is a grand archway, called the King Charles Street Arch, that leads onto the historic and architecturally rich King Charles Street.

At the far end of the short street is the Churchill War Rooms Museum, which are part of the Imperial War Museum. MAP . The underground War Rooms were built in the 1930s and were used throughout the war by Churchill and visitors can see the well-preserved bunker with a ticket.

#21 Parliament Square Garden

MAP . The small, green grass Parliament Square Garden offers visitors a unique vantage point of some of the most iconic Westminster sights – including Big Ben, Parliament (called the Palace of Westminster) and Westminster Abbey. 

Just look at the famous London sights now; we route to a better vantage point of them later in the Self Guided Westminster Tour. 

The square, which is worth taking a quick walk around, is ringed by trees and statues of prominent politicians, including Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln and Nelson Mandela. 

Note : From Parliament Square, walk to Westminster Abbey – perhaps stopping at St. Margaret’s Church ( MAP ) on the way. Founded in the 12th century, the Church is free to enter and well worth popping in to see the interior. 

#22 Westminster Abbey

MAP . The iconic Westminster Abbey is a magnificent church with soaring Gothic spires, more than a thousand years of history and a strong royal connection.

Sixteen royal couples, including Will and Kate, have said their vows at the Abbey and the next to be crowned will celebrate their Coronation at Westminster Abbey, as has every other king and queen since 1066.

There is a fee to enter and tour Westminster Abbey – and it is best to buy tickets in advance . 

However, visitors can go inside for free for a service (check the official schedule ), which is how we visited the beautiful church. 

#23 Victoria Tower Gardens South

MAP . One of the small Royal Parks that sits along the riverside, Victoria Tower Gardens offers one of the better views of the Palace of Westminster – and is a nice place to rest your feet during a Westminster tour of sights. 

In addition to seeing Parliament, visitors can take in the view across the Thames River and seek out artwork and a famous memorial. 

Find the Burghers of Calais statue by Auguste Rodin on the south side of the Palace of Westminster. The statue commemorates the Hundred Years War between England and France during the Middle Ages. 

In the center of the park is the colorful Buxton Memorial Fountain. The octagonal memorial celebrates Britain’s abolishment of slavery in 1834 (but it wasn’t built until 1865, the same year the US abolished slavery). 

#24 Tate Britain 

MAP . Opened in 1897 as the National Gallery of British Art, the Tate Britain is one of the highly touted art museums in London and one of the largest in England. 

The artwork displayed at Tate Britain features works by British artists, as well as contemporary art. General admission into the museum is free! 

Note : We only recommend walking to the Tate Britain Museum if you plan on visiting. If you are not visiting Tate Britain, continue from the south end of Victoria Tower Gardens across Lambeth Bridge. 

#25 Lambeth Bridge

MAP . There has been a Thames River crossing at the site of the Lambeth Bridge since the 1800s (when there used to be a ferry that shuttled passengers, horses and carriages from one bank to the other).

The bridge that straddles the river today dates to 1932 and is marked by obelisks at either end topped with pinecones. 

Cross the bridge to the east side of the River Thames and follow the pedestrian riverside Albert Embankment path north. This route provides the best view of the next sight on our London Westminster Walking Tour: Palace of Westminster.

#26 Palace of Westminster Parliament Building 

MAP . Officially known as the Palace of Westminster, the Parliament building has been the center for British government for the past 900 years. The Westminster Palace (along with Westminster Abbey and St. Margaret’s Church) are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Two of its 1,100 rooms are used by the House of Lords and the House of Commons. The Palace of Westminster also houses rooms for committees, libraries, dining halls and bars (like Stranger’s Bar) that can be used by Members of Parliament, staff and their guests.

Visitors can go on a tour of the building (ticket required) or interested visitors can attend a session for free. Find out more on the official website .

#27 Westminster Bridge

MAP . The Westminster Bridge was built in the mid-1700s and stands today as a landmark in London. 

Before using the bridge to cross back into Westminster, walk to the north side of the bridge for an epic London view that encompasses Westminster Bridge, Big Ben and Parliament. 

Now, continue your DIY London Tour of Westminster and use the bridge to cross back over the river…and enjoy one of the best views in the city as you stroll across it toward Big Ben!

#28 Big Ben

MAP . The four-faced clock tower, which is often referred to as Big Ben, is actually called Elizabeth Tower. The largest of the five bells inside the tower is named Big Ben – and it rings on the hour.

The neo-Gothic tower was built in 1859 and stands 316 feet tall. Today, the bell tower is an iconic symbol of London and a UNESCO site. 

#29 River Thames Memorials and Statues

Several landmarks, statues and memorials stand on the bank of the Thames River, north of Big Ben. We are highlighting just a few of the sights to look for along the riverbank.

The Royal Air Force Memorial was erected in 1923 in memory of airmen who died in WWI. MAP . 

The PS Tattershall Castle, a moored boat and now a pub, was used as a passenger ferry from 1934 until 1973. MAP . 

Look across the River Thames to The London Eye Ferris Wheel. It allows passengers a birds’ eye view of the city. Already iconic, it was only built in the year 2000. MAP . 

#30 Golden Jubilee Bridge

MAP . Part of the Hungerford Bridge, the pedestrian footbridges on the outside of the bridge are called the Golden Jubilee Footbridges. 

Use the footbridge on the south side of the bridge – and walk halfway across to take in one of the best views in London and Westminster. 

Bonus: Victoria Embankment Gardens

MAP . If you still have some spring in your step, continue your Free Self-Guided Walking Tour London north along the Victoria Embankment. 

The riverside Victoria Embankment stretches from Parliament north to Blackfriars Bridge. The route is marked by beautiful flower gardens, poignant memorials and outstanding city views. Don’t miss Cleopatra’s Needle, an Egyptian Obelisk dating to 1450 BC.

Still going strong? Continue your riverside stroll and embark on a Self Guided Thames River Pub Crawl to some of the best pubs in London!

Westminster London Walking Tour Map

Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Westminster Walking Tour Map of Sights.

Westminster London Walking Map with Directions

To help visitors more easily get around Westminster, we created four London Self-Guided Walking Tours Maps that provide step-by-step directions from sight to sight. Use these maps for walking directions of the route outlined in our self-guided tour of London. 

• Walking Tour London Map #1 Walking Directions
• Walking Tour of London Map #2 Walking Directions
• Walking Map of London #3 Walking Directions
• London Tour Map #4 Walking Directions

Where To Eat in Westminster London

If you get peckish during your Westminster walk, there are a few places where you can stop to get a bite to eat along our London Walking Tour Self Guided route. 

The Laughing Halibut

MAP . A classic fish and chips shop that has been around since 1982, The Laughing Halibut is a family run restaurant – and their Haddock and Chips is excellent! 

Regency Café

MAP . Before setting off on the best Self Guided Walking Tour of London Westminster, feast on a traditional Full English Breakfast at Regency Café. The diner is a local favorite – so expect a queue! 

The English Rose Café and Tea Shop

MAP . One of the best place (and most affordable!) places for Afternoon Tea in Westminster, The English Rose Café is delightfully charming – and the scones are incredibly delicious!

More Money Saving Tips For London

Looking for more ways to save money in London? Use our detailed 3-Day London Itinerary on a Budget ! We share our top tips and travel advice for how to plan your London vacation. 

The itinerary includes spending A Day in Greenwich , taking in London views from the free Skygarden and tips on enjoying craft beer on the Bermondsey Beer Mile . 

What You Need For Your Self-Guided London Walking Tour

Before setting off on self-guided walking tours in London, make sure you have a few necessities! 

Walking Shoes for London

While London is a very walkable city, it is important to wear comfortable travel shoes for this walk. I like to take city walks in my Columbia Shoes and Kris enjoys wearing Merrell shoes. 

Travel Camera

London is a beautiful city! Capture the city sights with an actual camera (rather than relying on your cell phone camera). We use a Canon Rebel with an everyday 18-135mm lens – which takes incredible photos. 

WiFi Connection 

As we mentioned previously, in order to use our Westminster Walking Tour Map Links that we share for each sight, you will need an internet connection. 

Many phone providers allow travelers to adjust data packages for international plans, however, we recommend travelers invest in a Pocket WiFi Device . We use the GlocalMe device – and would literally be lost without it!

London Tourist Map and Guidebook

While we provide a helpful Self-Guided London Walking Tour Map, we think navigating a city is even easier (and much more enjoyable!) when you have a good understanding of the city layout and a paper map.

We recommend purchasing a city map in advance of your trip – and it’s always a good idea to have a guidebook , too!

Day Pack and Water Bottle

It’s important to have a good day pack for your city exploration. I carry a Timbuk2 Messenger Bag , which isn’t specifically designed for travel, but I think it is perfect for city sightseeing! The crossbody bag has tons of interior pockets and is big enough for my camera, map, water bottle and other things I carry. Looking for a different style? Try the traveler bags made by Travelon . 

Speaking of water bottles, we recommend carrying a refillable water bottle. The water in London is safe to drink – and there are plenty of places to fill up along the walk. Travelers can use space-saving collapsible water bottles . 

London Weather Gear

The weather in London is notoriously rainy! Be prepared for foul weather with a travel umbrella or packable raincoat . 

London Travel Insurance

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London Walking Tours

With joanna moncrieff.

Whether you want to see the tourist hotspots or discover London off the beaten track I will have a walk to suit your needs.

After studying at both City University and the University of Westminster I have been leading guided walks in the City of Westminster, the West End, Clerkenwell & Islington and further afield since 2009. Whether you want to see the tourist hotspots or discover London off the beaten track I will have a walk to suit your needs. Born and bred in London I am a London obsessive and apart from having a thorough knowledge of the history of the capital I’ve also got an excellent knowledge of the best historic pubs, hidden gardens, unusual museums, quirky shops and other lesser known treasures.

As a member of two eminent guiding associations I have many guiding colleagues who could help with bigger groups or with a series of lunchtime walks in the same area. See my walks page for ideas but please get in touch if you can’t find what you’re looking for.

Apart from guiding in Central London I also guide close to where I live in Walthamstow and Chingford; in fact my Walthamstow ‘From Monoux and Morris to Beer and Bacon Jam’ walk is a best seller alongside my West End ‘Foodie themed Christmas Lights’ walk.

My upcoming public walks and virtual tours can always be found here

Tour guide qualifications.

Here are the badges showing membership to eminent guiding associations

I would be happy to hear from you

If you have any questions or need advice about your upcoming trip to London then please don’t hesitate to contact me.

What people are saying

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Top Sight Tours Group

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey

Tour start times: 10am, what we will see & where we will be.

We will see 20 of London’s most iconic sights in a 3-hour historic walking tour!

After the walking tour : Visit Westminster Abbey.

Since the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066, all coronations of English and British monarchs have been in Westminster Abbey. There have been 16 royal weddings at the abbey since 1100. Enter the Abbey and inhale the air of royalty!   One of the most complete London Tours. You will see everything!    The historic walking tour takes you through London’s best known area : Westminster    We start in Green Park & then head to Westminster. Sights we’ll see along the way include Buckingham Palace (Changing of the Guard), Downing Street, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Parliament Square, the Houses of Parliament (Westminster Palace)   After which, you will enter Westminster Abbey to marvel at its splendour. All with a friendly local guide   Come and join us on the best London walking tour, to see the best sights in London, with some of the best London tour guides!

Please note: The Changing of the Guard Ceremony is only for the 10am tour and on certain days.

The tour is 5 hours in duration (3 hours Westminster Walking Tour & 2 hours in Westminster Abbey. We will not accompany you into Westminster Abbey : there is an amazing audio guide for you to use)

Know before you go

What’s included :

• Fun local guide!
• Admission to Westminster Abbey
• Small Tour Group Size (10 – 15 guests per group)

Please bring with you

• An umbrella if its raining
• Comfortable Shoes
• Drinks & Snacks
• Camera (for all the photos you’ll be taking!)

Where we meet

We meet outside the Ritz hotel (SW1A 1BS). Next to two red telephone boxes. Nearest underground station is Green Park.

Once you have booked we will send you a confirmation email with all the details of how, where and who to meet on the day of your tour.

Tour Highlights

Westminster Area : sights include 

• Buckingham Palace
• Trafalgar Square
• Changing of the Guard
• Downing Street
• Westminster Abbey
• Houses of Parliament

The head into Westminster Abbey where you can see where kings once stood.

Want a London Food Tour add-on instead? Click here

For more London Guided Tours : Click here

For more London Tours with attraction tickets: Click here

For more London Tours with our amazing London Tour Guides: Click here

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Westminster Walking Tour

Private tour of westminster.

Enjoy our private tour of Westminster and see some of the most famous landmarks in the world.

Explore in detail the magnificent and aristocratic buildings of Westminster in just 3 hours.

Reveal the secrets hidden within the glorious architecture of Britain’s most powerful buildings.

Learn amazing facts about British politics and history

Westminster

Westminster is a part of central London within the City of Westminster, on the north bank of the River Thames. Westminster houses some of the world’s most powerful buildings and it attracts millions of visitors each year. The area is the centre of UK government, with Parliament in the Palace of Westminster (Houses of Parliament) and world known attractions and historic landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and St.James’s Park.

Read more about Westminster

The historic core of Westminster is the former Thorney Island on which Westminster Abbey was built. The abbey became the traditional venue of the coronation of the kings and queens of England from 1066 onwards. Downing Street is a street in London, United Kingdom, known for housing the official residences and offices of the Prime Minister and the Chancellor of the Exchequer. The Palace of Whitehall (or Palace of White Hall) was the main residence of the English monarchs in London from 1530 until 1698 when most of its structures, except Banqueting House, were destroyed by fire. Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom. The palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality.

What are you going to see?

During this classic private tour of Westminster, you will see the following sights and landmarks: 

1.  Boudiccan Rebellion 

2.  Big Ben

3.  Palace of Westminster

4.  Parliament Square

5.  St. Margaret’s Church

6.  Westminster Abbey

7.  Central Hall Westminster

8.  St.James’s Park

9.  Victoria Memorial

10.   Buckingham Palace

11.  St.James’s Palace

12.  King George VI Memorial & Queen Elizabeth

13.  Duke of York Column

14.  Admiralty Arch

15.  Trafalgar Square

16.  The Statue of  the Duke of Cambridge

17.  Horse Guards Parade

18. The Banqueting House

19.  10 Downing Street

20.  Foreign & Commonwealth Office

Where is the meeting point?

A choice between your hotel (if centrally located) and a recommended meeting point. The ideal meeting point for this private tour is in front of Sir Winston Churchill Statue on Parliament Square Garden  (find it on the map).  The nearest tube station is Westminster. Our recommendation for the starting time of the tour is between 9 AM and 1 PM. The duration of the tour is 3 hours.

What is the price of the tour?

If your group is larger than 10 people, please send us an email on: [email protected] for a group rate

The price includes:

Professional Tour Guiding services in English

The price does not include:

Gratuities (optional)

Additional information

• The walking tour is informative, but does not include entry into the mentioned buildings.
• Please make sure you check the weather forecast. In case of rainy weather, please bring an umbrella.
• We accept secure online payments via Stripe, once we confirm you availability for the tour

Route of the Tour

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London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

Explore royal history at london's famous church before seeing buckingham palace's ceremony.

Want an in-depth Westminster Abbey tour without waiting in line? Need to know the perfect place to stand for the Changing of the Guards? This London walking tour has got you covered! Along with a small group and your super-knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore Britain’s most famous church: the centuries-old location for royal weddings, funerals, and coronations. Afterwards, you’ll get several chances to watch the iconic Changing of the Guards ceremony (on certain days). A truly royal experience!

• Guided Westminster Abbey tour
• Parliament Square
• Skip the line tickets
• History of the Abbey
• Famous tombs and effigies
• St. James Park

Changing of the Guard

• Buckingham Palace
• Downing Street

You’ll meet your super-knowledgeable guide in Parliament Square for the short walk to magnificent Westminster Abbey, where you’ll skip the line and head straight in to explore. Like a walking Westminster encyclopedia, your guide knows everything worth knowing about this 1,000-year-old site. They’ll bring its history to life with engaging stories of the seismic events that happened here.

Leaving the abbey, you’ll stroll through beautiful St. James Park to Buckingham Palace, just in time to find a great spot to watch the famous Changing of the Guards ceremony. You may even have the opportunity to visit nearby Downing Street—the street that plays home to Britain's Prime Minister and other key figures while they're in power. This is dependent on whether events are planned or access is restricted, however.

Westminster Abbey Guided Tour Description

Your 3-hour tour includes: 

Skip-the-line walking tour of Westminster Abbey

Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace (certain days; weather permitting)

Fun, knowledgeable local guide

Maximum group size of 15

The Changing of the Guard occurs only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays for the remainder of the year. If there is heavy rainfall, the Changing of the Guard will not happen.

Westminster Abbey

Built on the site where a fisherman saw a vision of St. Peter in the 10th century, the Abbey has over a thousand years of history as a religious center, although the incredible building you'll see today is only around 750 years old, having been consecrated in 1269. Huge events in British history have played out here, including almost 40 royal coronations and the funeral of Princess Diana—watched by some 2.5 billion people worldwide. Today, it remains in use for royal weddings, and the funerals of the royal family and other notable people from British society.

Your guide is a true expert on the abbey and its history, and you'll hear fascinating stories of its construction and the events that have taken place here. This grandest of churches is the burial place for famous scientists such as Charles Darwin and Sir Isaac Newton, and the Poet's Corner section houses the remains of famous writers like Charles Dickens, Rudyard Kipling, and Geoffrey Chaucer. You'll explore every beautifully crafted corner of this vast abbey, learning all about its rich history as you go.

A gentle stroll through leafy St. James Park brings you to the Buckingham Palace, just in time for the famous Changing of the Guards ceremony. As one of London's must-see events, crowds can get pretty big and it's not always easy to get a good view. Not to worry though, your guide knows exactly where to go so you can see the ceremony from multiple vantage points.

The King's Guard has been protecting Britain's monarch since 1660, and these elite soldiers from seven regiments are solely responsible for the King's security. This elaborate ceremony serves a practical purpose to change the morning shift (the Old Guard), to the afternoon shift (the New Guard). Though there is much pomp and fanfare, the guards primary focus is the protection of the King.

For this reason, the guards refuse to be distracted by the constant and often humorous attempts to distract them. To see this incredible parade of bands and soldiers in both red and blue outfits, your guide escorts you to more than one viewpoint as the ceremony happens.

" data-expanded-text="hide full description "> show full description

What you get with this tour

See what people are saying

292 total reviews

Great spots to see changing of the guard

Fantastic visit to Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. We would have liked more commentary along the walk about the Palace, etc.

show more reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

We recommend bringing a bottle of water with you and wearing a pair of comfortable shoes since this is a walking tour.

Can I take pictures in Westminster Abbey?

Yes! You are now allowed to take non-commercial photography inside Westminster Abbey. Videos and flash photography are not allowed, nor is any kind of photography allowed during a service.

Does this tour include pick up from your hotel?

Transport isn't included with this tour, but it's very easy to get here on the tube or by taxi. Your guide will be at the meeting point listed on your confirmation voucher.

Can I bring a backpack?

Small bags and backpacks are allowed, but they will be searched upon entry to Westminster.

How much walking is involved in this tour?

Although this tour doesn't cover a large distance or any difficult terrain, you will walking or standing for the majority of the 3 hours.

Does this tour guarantee seeing the Changing of the Guard?

No. The Changing of the Guard ceremony happens every day during June/July, but only Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sundays throughout the year. If there is heavy rainfall, the ceremony does not happen. Your guide will watch the time to help you get to the ceremony from Westminster Abbey in time.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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Raise a glass in the Great Hall, wander down Diagon Alley, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express!

From: $265.55

Premium Westminster Abbey Tour with Breakfast and London Eye

Avoid lines and witness the storied sites of royal ceremonies, then soar above the London skyline

From: $172.89

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Embark On These 10 Best London Walking Tours For An Insightful Journey

F amous for being one of the most walkable capital cities in the world, London has plenty of things to do that vacationers can reach on foot. It is unusual to drive around the city center, and travelers who are new to the place will feel odd. Booking walking tours allows one to soak in the experience as they navigate through the city’s most iconic attractions. After all, the British capital existed long before there were any means of transportation. So, of course, strolling through the city’s charming streets is the best way of learning the long, fascinating history and exploring the beautiful culture of the locals. Embark on these 10 best London walking tours for an insightful journey.

Related: These Are The 10 Most Famous Landmarks In London

Westminster 3-Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

Westminster is home to some of the top-rated attractions in London , making it a must-visit for vacationers of all interests. The area boasts numerous historical sights that one can explore on a walking tour. Westminster 3-Hour Walking Tour takes visitors through the city's attractions and then to Churchill's War Room, where they'll learn about the legend's life, including the incredible tactics he used to lead soldiers through WWII. During the tour, guests can explore the top 20 attractions in Westminster. The tour also includes a local fun guide and admission into Churchill War Rooms.

• Tour: Westminster 3-Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms
• Duration: Three hours
• Cost: From 483.64 per adult

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See Over 30 Top London’s Sights Fun Local Guide!

Taking five hours to complete, this small group tour is one of the best London walking tours for an insightful journey. It takes travelers through a wide range of London's most iconic landmarks and comes with a guide who narrates the history of various places. This is much better than joining a bus tour, as it comes the guide offers personalized commentary. Some of the major stops throughout this tour include Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Shakespeare's Globe.

• Tour: See Over 30 Top London’s Sights Fun Local Guide!
• Duration: 5 hours
• Cost: $67.32

Ghost, Ghouls, And Gallows Walking Tour With Boat Ride

Offered by See Your City, Ghost, Ghouls, and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride that allows vacationers to explore the bustling London by night, when crowds thin out. Visitors will enjoy learning about the city's dark history and later enjoy a cruise on the iconic Thames River, which comes with breathtaking views of London’s amazing landmarks . This tour gives an insight into a unique side of the city, and everyone will have a good time as they pass through the dimly lit parks.

• Tour: Ghost, Ghouls, and Gallows Walking Tour with Boat Ride
• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Cost: $32.67

Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

Want to explore Westminster for half a day? Well, Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry is one of the best walking tours to book in the area. It helps tourists discover some of London’s most famous buildings, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Downing Street, among others. The cost of the tour includes an entry ticket for Westminster Abbey, which means one doesn't have to stay in long queues to access Westminster Abbey. It comes with a local fun guide who narrates about the attractions and answers all queries that travelers may have concerning the points of interest. Book this tour to learn why Westminster is the place to see most of London’s landmarks .

• Tour: Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry
• Duration: Four hours
• Cost: From $77.11

Book this tour Related: Tower Bridge: Why It's The Most Iconic Landmark In London

Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio with Luxury Transport from London

Nestled on the outskirts of London, Warner Bros. Studio is one of the best sights to explore during a visit to the British capital. This walking tour is one of the best in the city and takes vacationers through the studio, allowing them to explore the Harry Potter film sets, props, costumes, and more. One will enjoy plenty of fun activities during the tour, taking Instagrammable pictures and exploring the gift shop. Please note that the food, drinks, and gratuities do not come with this tour package. Travelers will have to fund these from their pockets.

• Tour: Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio with Luxury Transport from London
• Duration: 7 hours
• Cost: From $143.76

London Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

London has an incredible culinary scene, and with plenty of options to choose from, ensuring one’s gastronomic experience of the city is the best it could be is definitely daunting. Fortunately, London Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours guarantees unforgettable memories of the city’s food scene. On this tour, visitors will get a chance to stroll through some of London’s best restaurants, especially around the Borough Market and London Bridge. Guests choosing this tour will enjoy personalized recommendations.

• Tour: London Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours
• Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Cost: From $11.09

British Museum Guided Tour

British Museum is the largest and one of the most iconic museums in the UK. British Museum Guided Tour lets visitors explore an incredible collection of impressive pieces from different parts of the world, including the Rosetta Stone, which is among the most celebrated works in the museum. One will also see relics from Ancient Egypt, Ancient Rome, and Ancient Greece. There is a local expert guide who takes travelers through the museum. Once the tour is done, vacationers are allowed to continue exploring the museum on their own.

• Tour: British Museum Guided Tour
• Duration: 2 hours
• Cost: $61.60

Jack the Ripper Tour with 'Ripper-Vision' in London

Jack the Ripper Tour with 'Ripper-Vision' in London is one of the best walking tours one can book in London. The tour takes vacationers back to the Victorian era, allowing them to learn the horrifying tales of how Jack the Ripper committed murders in the 1800s. The images of the period are projected on the buildings along the charming streets of Whitechapel to make the experience livelier. Want to experience London's mystery? The book Jack the Ripper tour with "Ripper-Vision" in London.

• Tour: Jack the Ripper Tour with “Ripper-Vision” in London
• Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Cost: $23.53

The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea

Want to enjoy some of the best high tea experiences in London? Book the Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea, which gives vacationers an incredible opportunity to really soak in the British Cultural experience (high tea). High tea originated from British, and booking this tour will let one enjoy the history of the beloved beverage, as they explore the gorgeous gardens that were made by Prince Albert. At the end of the tour, travelers can finally have a taste of high tea, which comes with sandwiches, scones, and taste cakes. Looking for what to do in London ? Get through the Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea tour.

• Tour: The Kensington Palace Gardens Royal High Tea
• Cost: $129.39

Book this tour Related: Best Hotels in London

Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour In London

Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour is one of the best walking tours in London for an unforgettable experience of the city. It walks vacationers through Central London at night, allowing them to explore plenty of spooky attractions. Visitors will stroll through the city’s dark streets and alleys as they listen to the haunting stories, which are part of the history of London. The tales include murder, crime, and mayhem stories. The tour passes through numerous landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, where the tour ends.

• Tour: Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour
• Cost: $26.14