LONDON
Royal London
An early morning walk from Big Ben to Buckingham Palace and back through Westminster.
OVERVIEW
Explore Royal London
The Royal London walk is a route through some of the city’s most historic and ceremonial landmarks, connecting Westminster, Buckingham Palace, and St. James’s Park.
Starting at Big Ben, the walk follows Whitehall past Horse Guards Parade, continues through St. James’s Park, and along The Mall to Buckingham Palace before finishing at Westminster Abbey.
This route works best as a half-to full-day walk, with time to explore key stops along the way.
THE ROUTE
Follow the Royal London Route
This route is designed as a continuous walk through central London, connecting each stop in a clear and logical order.
While it begins and ends in Westminster, the route is timed to pass Buckingham Palace at the right moment and allow time to explore Westminster Abbey without rushing.
Big Ben → Horse Guards Parade (via Whitehall)
THE WALK
Start at Big Ben before 8:00 AM to enjoy morning light, fewer crowds, and unobstructed views of Westminster.
For one of the best views of Big Ben and the Thames, take a short walk onto Westminster Bridge before continuing to Parliament Square.
Continue to Parliament Square, where the red phone booths on Great George Street create a classic London photo foreground.
- From Parliament Square, walk up Whitehall toward Horse Guards Parade.
THE EXPERIENCE
Start in the heart of Westminster, with views of Big Ben, Parliament, and the Thames. As you head up Whitehall, the route shifts into a more ceremonial part of London.
Horse Guards Parade → St. James's Park
THE WALK
Walk through the Horse Guards Arch and cross the courtyard to enter St. James’s Park.
Follow the path along the left side of the lake.
Cross The Blue bridge toward The Mall for one of the best views of Buckingham Palace.
Continue to the end of the path and exit onto The Mall.
THE EXPERIENCE
Passing through Horse Guards Parade, the route opens into St. James’s Park. The pace slows here, with open green space, water views, and a quieter atmosphere.
St. James's Park → Buckingham Palace (via The Mall)
THE WALK
- Walk along The Mall toward Buckingham Palace, a wide ceremonial avenue with a clear view ahead.
Arrive by around 10:30 AM to secure a good viewing spot for the Changing of the Guard (11:00 AM).
Stand near the Victoria Memorial or along the palace gates for the best views.
THE EXPERIENCE
Leaving the park, you step onto The Mall, a wide avenue leading straight to Buckingham Palace. The view opens up as you get closer to the palace.
Buckingham Palace → Westminster Abbey
THE WALK
Leave Buckingham Palace and head toward St. James’s Park.
Follow the path along the right side of the park toward Westminster.
Continue to the end of the path and exit onto Birdcage Walk.
Walk along Birdcage Walk to Westminster Abbey.
optional extensions
- From Westminster Abbey, cross Westminster Bridge for views of Big Ben and the Thames, with the option to visit the London Eye nearby.
Alternatively, head back through St. James’s Park and continue into Green Park and Hyde Park for a longer walk through London’s larger green spaces.
- Visit Churchill War Rooms located near St. James’s Park. This underground museum offers a detailed look at Britain’s wartime leadership during World War II. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours if you choose to visit, as it can significantly extend your day.
Optional Evening
- From Westminster Abbey, head toward Covent Garden via Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square. Explore the area, enjoy dinner, and continue into the evening with the option to see a show in the West End.
THE experience
From Buckingham Palace, the route heads back toward Westminster along the edge of St. James’s Park. It’s a quieter stretch before reaching Westminster Abbey.
experience
Along the Route
A closer look at each stop along the Royal London route.
Iconic views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, with some of the best photo spots in Westminster along the Thames and nearby streets.
A historic stretch lined with government buildings, leading to Horse Guards Parade where you may see mounted guards and one of London’s most recognizable ceremonial entrances.
One of London’s most scenic parks, with open green space, a central lake, and one of the best viewpoints toward Buckingham Palace from the bridge.
A wide, tree-lined avenue leading directly to Buckingham Palace, offering a clear and iconic approach framed by flags and royal landmarks.
London’s most famous royal residence and the focal point of the route, best experienced during the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
A historic and architectural landmark at the heart of Westminster, surrounded by some of London’s most recognizable sights.
nearby
Near the Route
Additional stops to explore near the Royal London route.
Located near Westminster, this underground museum offers a look into Britain’s wartime command center, where Winston Churchill and his team directed operations during World War II.
Located near Buckingham Palace, the Royal Mews houses the royal collection of carriages and horses, including the Gold State Coach used during coronations and major state occasions.
plan your visit
Plan Your Royal London Walk
Key details to help you time and navigate the Royal London route.
Best Time to Start
Start at Big Ben before 8:00 AM for fewer crowds and better photo conditions, allowing time to move at a relaxed pace.
Timing the Route
Plan to arrive at Buckingham Palace by around 10:30 AM to find a good viewing spot for the Changing of the Guard at 11:00 AM.
Getting Around
The route is fully walkable, with nearby Underground stations including Westminster, St James’s Park, and Green Park.
What to Know
Expect larger crowds around Buckingham Palace and Westminster later in the morning and stay aware of your surroundings when taking photos.
BUILD YOUR ITINERARY
How This Fits Into Your Day
This route works best as a half-day walk, starting early and timed around the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, but can easily become a full day if you stop to explore along the way or combine it with nearby neighborhoods.
FAQ
Royal London FAQs
What is considered Royal London?
Royal London refers to the area around Buckingham Palace, Westminster, and St James’s Park, where many of the city’s most important royal and ceremonial landmarks are located.
When is the Changing of the Guard?
The ceremony typically takes place at 11:00 AM, but it is not held every day. Check the official schedule before your visit, as dates can vary depending on events and weather.
Where is the best place to watch the Changing of the Guard?
The gates at Buckingham Palace are the most popular viewing spot, but they also get the most crowded. If you want a better experience, it helps to choose your location based on what you want to see.
St James’s Palace on Marlborough Road is a good place to watch the guards assemble up close, especially if you arrive by around 10:00 AM.
The Mall is one of the best places to watch the marching band and the full parade.
Victoria Memorial gives you a more elevated view of the palace and the procession, though it also gets very crowded.
Wellington Barracks is a good option if you want to watch the new guard prepare to march around 10:00 AM.
Which Royal London landmarks can you visit inside?
Westminster Abbey, the Churchill War Rooms, and the Royal Mews are open to visitors, and Big Ben can also be toured. Buckingham Palaceis open seasonally during the summer months.
All of these require tickets and are best booked in advance. If you plan to go inside, allow extra time and adjust the timing of your walk accordingly.
How long does the Royal London walk take?
The full route takes about 2 to 3 hours at a relaxed pace without stopping inside attractions. It can easily extend to a full day if you choose to visit landmarks along the way.
Where does the Royal London route start and end?
The route starts at Big Ben in Westminster and continues through St James’s Park to Buckingham Palace before returning toward Westminster Abbey. From there, you can continue across Westminster Bridge for views of Big Ben and the Thames, with the option to visit the London Eye nearby.
Do I need tickets for any of the stops?
The outdoor landmarks along the route are free to visit, but attractions like Westminster Abbey, the Royal Mews, and the Churchill War Rooms require tickets. Buckingham Palace is also ticketed during its seasonal opening, and Big Ben tours are available with advance booking.
If you plan to go inside, it’s best to book in advance to secure your preferred time.
Can I do this route in reverse?
Yes, you can walk the route in reverse, starting at Buckingham Palace and ending at Big Ben. However, the route is designed to start early in Westminster and arrive at Buckingham Palace in time for the Changing of the Guard, so reversing it may make timing the ceremony more difficult.
Overall, this is a flexible walking route that can be adjusted based on your interests, especially if you plan to visit attractions along the way.