London Walking Tour: Big Ben, Buckingham Palace & West End

Summary

Wander London’s icons from Trafalgar to Soho with stories at every turn

You’ll trace London’s iconic sights on foot—Big Ben’s golden shine, royal tales at Westminster Abbey, hidden corners in Soho—guided by local stories that bring each landmark alive. Expect small surprises: squirrel antics in St James’s Park or secret police stations on Regent Street. You’ll finish feeling like you’ve walked through history instead of just watching it go by.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit I was a bit nervous about navigating central London on foot — it’s all so big and busy in my head. But meeting our guide right by that odd white cube statue in Trafalgar Square (the 4th Plinth, apparently) felt oddly grounding. She had this navy jacket with “Vox City” stitched on and a knack for making even the pigeons seem like part of the story. The square itself buzzed with people and buskers, and I could smell roasted nuts from a cart somewhere behind me. We set off toward Big Ben, which honestly looked shinier than I’d imagined — the gold bits really do catch the light when you’re up close.

Walking past Westminster Abbey, our guide started telling us about royal coronations and burials — I didn’t expect to feel a weird chill thinking about how many kings and queens have stood right there. There was this moment when the bells chimed and everyone paused for half a second; even the traffic seemed to hush. We cut through St James’s Park, where the grass felt almost too green for November, and watched a squirrel try to mug someone for their sandwich (it failed). The Changing of the Guard wasn’t happening that day but we did spot two of those red-coated guards on horseback — they look both bored and terrifying at once.

I lost track of time as we wandered into Regent Street — suddenly it was all flags and window displays, people ducking in and out of shops with bags swinging. Our guide pointed out an old police station tucked between designer stores; apparently it’s been there forever but I’d never have noticed. By the time we hit Soho and Covent Garden, my feet were tired but I didn’t care. There’s something about hearing snippets of music from open doors in the West End that makes you want to stay out late, even if you’re just here for a day trip.

We finished back at Trafalgar Square, slightly windblown and hungry (I asked where to get pie nearby — got three different answers). It wasn’t just seeing London landmarks up close; it was how each street felt different underfoot, how every corner had its own noise or smell or odd story. I still think about that pause by Westminster when everything went quiet. If you want to walk London with someone who actually knows why things are the way they are — not just what they are — this is worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore London's iconic landmarks

• Meet guide at Trafalgar Square
• See National Gallery
• Take photo of Winston Churchill statue
• Pass UK Supreme Court
• Admire Big Ben clock tower
• View Houses of Parliament
• Visit Westminster Abbey
• Stroll through St James's Park
• See St. James's Palace
• Walk along ceremonial route
• Admire Buckingham Palace and King's Guard
• Pass Churchill War Rooms
• Walk through West End district
• Pass Soho district
• Visit Covent Garden area
• See Regent Street flagship stores
• Return to Trafalgar Square

Top questions

Where does the London walking tour start?

The tour starts at Trafalgar Square next to the large white cube statue on the 4th Plinth opposite Canada House.

How long is the London landmarks walking tour?

The guided walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Is there a live guide during the tour?

Yes, there is a live English-speaking guide throughout the walking tour.

What famous sights will I see on this walking tour?

You’ll see Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Regent Street, Soho, Covent Garden, St James’s Park and more.

Is public transportation nearby after finishing?

Yes, Trafalgar Square has easy access to public transport options nearby.

Does this include entry into any attractions?

No entry tickets are included; you’ll admire landmarks from outside while hearing their stories.

Can I bring my service animal?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this walking tour.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

The route is suitable for all physical fitness levels as it’s mostly flat city walking.

Do I need to download anything before arrival?

You can scan a QR code on your voucher before arrival to download the sightseeing app and audio guide in multiple languages.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided London Landmarks walking tour starting from Trafalgar Square with live English commentary throughout. You’ll also get access to a Vox City sightseeing mobile app available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian or Mandarin so you can keep exploring after your walk ends—just remember to scan your voucher’s QR code before arrival for easy setup.