Exploring London by water offers a unique and iconic way to see the city’s historic landmarks. One of the highlights of any visit to this vibrant metropolis is a tour of the British Parliament buildings. If you’re planning a trip and want to combine a cruise with a visit to Westminster, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best ways to find a UK cruise that includes a tour of the historic British Parliament buildings.
Discover the Thames River Cruises
Navigating the River Thames is one of the most picturesque and memorable ways to explore London. River cruises provide a different perspective on the city, allowing you to see many of its iconic sights from the water. When searching for a cruise that includes a tour of the British Parliament buildings, start by looking into Thames River cruises.
These cruises often provide commentary on the history and significance of various landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament. Make sure to book in advance to secure your spot on one of these popular excursions. Companies like City Cruises and Thames Clippers offer packages that combine sightseeing with walking tours of historic sites.
A river cruise will take you past notable locations such as the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. As you glide along the Thames, you’ll also have the chance to see the magnificent Westminster Abbey, where many of England’s monarchs have been crowned and buried. This journey is not just about sightseeing; it’s about immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of London.
Walking Tours and Shore Excursions
While a river cruise offers stunning views of London from the water, pairing it with a walking tour can provide a more in-depth understanding of the city’s history. Many tours combine cruising with shore excursions that allow you to disembark and explore significant landmarks on foot.
For example, you can embark on a sightseeing cruise that begins at Westminster Pier. After enjoying the views from the water, join a guided walking tour that takes you around the Houses of Parliament. These tours often include access to the House of Commons and the House of Lords, where you can learn about the inner workings of the British government.
Sites like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben are often included in these routes. By combining a river cruise with a walking tour, you get the best of both worlds: the beauty of the Thames and the historical depth of London’s streets.
Another exciting option is to book a shore excursion from a longer cruise that stops in London. Many cruise lines offer packages that include a day trip to the city, featuring a tour of the Parliament buildings. Look for itineraries that specifically mention London sightseeing and the Houses of Parliament to ensure you get the full experience.
Booking the Best Tours
To make the most of your London visit, it’s essential to plan and book your tours in advance. With the popularity of London sightseeing cruises and tours of the British Parliament buildings, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these coveted experiences.
When researching tours, prioritize those that offer well-rounded experiences. Look for packages that combine river cruises with guided tours of historical sites. For example, you might find a package that includes a river cruise followed by a visit to Westminster Abbey and a tour of the Parliament buildings. This gives you a comprehensive overview of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Consider using reputable tour operators like Viator or GetYourGuide, which provide detailed descriptions and reviews of their offerings. These platforms often feature top-rated tours that include river cruises and visits to the Houses of Parliament, ensuring a royal treatment during your stay.
Additionally, some tours offer skip-the-line access, saving you valuable time. This is especially useful during peak tourist seasons when popular attractions can be crowded. By booking a package that includes priority entry, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the sights.
Exploring Iconic Landmarks
No trip to London is complete without exploring its iconic landmarks. The British Parliament buildings are a focal point, but there are many other sites to see. Begin your journey with a walking tour around Westminster, where you can marvel at Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
Next, head to Westminster Abbey, with its stunning Gothic architecture and over a thousand years of history. A guided tour will reveal the abbey’s significance as a coronation church and a resting place for famous figures like Charles Darwin and Isaac Newton.
From there, make your way to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Time your visit to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a quintessentially British spectacle.
Cross the river to visit the London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. A ride on the London Eye provides a bird’s-eye view of the River Thames, Tower Bridge, and the sprawling urban landscape.
Finally, take a trip to the Tower of London, a historic castle that has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. Here, you can see the Crown Jewels and learn about the tower’s dark past. Combining these iconic landmarks with a river cruise and tour of the Parliament buildings ensures a well-rounded London experience.
Combining Royal and Historic Experiences
London is synonymous with royalty and history, and your visit should reflect this. Combining a river cruise with visits to royal residences and historic sites will give you a deeper appreciation of the city’s rich heritage.
Begin with a river cruise that offers commentary on London’s royal history. As you pass landmarks like Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, you’ll learn about their significance in shaping British history. Disembark at a convenient location to start your walking tour.
A visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest inhabited castle in the world and an official residence of the Queen, is a must. Located just outside London, it’s easily accessible by train or through guided tours that include transportation. Windsor Castle offers a glimpse into the lives of British monarchs and features stunning architecture and beautiful grounds.
Back in London, explore Kensington Palace, home to several members of the royal family. The palace’s exhibitions provide insight into the lives of its famous residents, from Queen Victoria to Princess Diana.
For those interested in the political history, the London Tower and Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace offer fascinating tours. The London Tower explores the city’s law enforcement history, while the Royal Mews showcases the Queen’s carriages and horses.
By combining these royal and historic experiences with a river cruise and tour of the British Parliament buildings, you create a memorable and enriching itinerary. Each site offers a unique perspective on London’s past and present, making your visit truly special.
Finding a UK cruise that includes a tour of the historic British Parliament buildings offers a unique way to experience London’s rich history and vibrant culture. By combining a river cruise on the Thames with walking tours and shore excursions, you can see iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. Booking in advance and choosing comprehensive tour packages will ensure you make the most of your visit.
Exploring London by water and foot provides a well-rounded view of the city’s architectural marvels and historical significance. From the royal residences like Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle to the timeless beauty of Tower Bridge and the London Eye, your journey will be filled with iconic sights and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of royal heritage, or simply looking to experience the best of London, a combined river cruise and Parliament tour offers an enriching and memorable adventure. So book your sightseeing cruise, pack your walking shoes, and get ready to explore London in a truly unique way.
