How to Visit Buckingham Palace, Tower of London & Big Ben in One Day
London is full of iconic landmarks, but what if you only have a single day to explore? Don’t worry—you can still see the crown jewels of the city (literally!) in just 24 hours. Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Big Ben are not only London’s most famous sights but also essential stops for first-timers. With a little planning, you can easily fit them all into one unforgettable day.
Let’s break down how to do it, step by step.
Morning: Start at Buckingham Palace
No trip to London feels complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace, the King’s official residence.
Best time to visit: Arrive in the morning, ideally around 9:30 am, to see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony (on most days at 11 am in summer, and on selected days during winter).
What to see: You can watch the guards march in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats. If you’re visiting between July and September, you can also tour the Palace State Rooms, which open to the public for a few weeks each year.
How long to spend: Around 1.5 to 2 hours is plenty unless you’re going inside the State Rooms, which may take longer.
👉 Travel tip: Get there early for a good spot during the ceremony, as it gets crowded fast.
Midday: Stroll to Big Ben & Westminster
From Buckingham Palace, it’s a beautiful 15–20 minute walk through St. James’s Park, one of London’s prettiest royal parks. As you cross over, you’ll find yourself in Westminster, home to some of London’s most photographed sights.
Big Ben & Houses of Parliament: The recently restored Elizabeth Tower (famously known as Big Ben) is now gleaming and photo-ready. You can’t go inside the clock tower unless you’re a UK resident booking a special tour via an MP, but you can admire it from Westminster Bridge for the classic shot.
Westminster Abbey: Just around the corner, this UNESCO site is where monarchs have been crowned since 1066, and it’s worth a quick visit if time allows.
How long to spend: Around 1 to 1.5 hours in Westminster is ideal.
👉 Lunch idea: Stop at a nearby pub like The Red Lion (a favorite of politicians) or grab a quick bite in Westminster before heading east.
Afternoon: Explore the Tower of London
Next stop: the Tower of London, one of the most atmospheric landmarks in the city. Jump on the Circle or District line from Westminster Station to Tower Hill Station (about 20 minutes).
Highlights:
The Crown Jewels, housed in the Jewel House—don’t miss these glittering symbols of the monarchy.
A guided tour with a Yeoman Warder (Beefeater), full of stories about executions, prisoners, and royal intrigue.
The White Tower, built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, which still dominates the skyline.
How long to spend: 2 to 3 hours is ideal if you want to experience it fully.
👉 Travel tip: Buy tickets online in advance to save time. Entry can be pricey (£33.60 for adults in 2025), but it’s worth it.
Evening: Views of Tower Bridge & the Thames
Once you finish exploring the Tower, step outside to admire the spectacular Tower Bridge, just a few minutes’ walk away. It’s stunning at sunset, and you can even walk across the high-level glass walkways if you still have energy left.
If you’d like to end your day in style:
Take a river cruise from Tower Pier back to Westminster for an illuminated view of London’s skyline.
Or settle into a riverside restaurant or pub around St. Katharine Docks, one of London’s hidden gems.
Can You Really See Them All in One Day?
Yes—if you start early and keep moving, it’s totally possible to visit Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Tower of London in one day. You’ll get a balance of royal glamour, political history, and medieval intrigue.
Of course, London has endless layers to explore, but this itinerary ensures you leave with the essentials ticked off your list.
Practical Tips for the Day
Start early: Aim to be at Buckingham Palace by 9:30 am.
Use the Tube: The Underground is the fastest way to get between sights.
Book ahead: For the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace (if touring inside).
Wear comfy shoes: You’ll be walking a lot.
Bring water & snacks: London days can be long, especially if you’re sightseeing in summer.
Final Thoughts
In one day, you’ll have stood in front of the King’s palace, heard the chimes of Big Ben, and walked through the bloody history of the Tower of London. Few cities let you cover so much history, culture, and grandeur in a single day’s walk (and Tube ride).
If you’re short on time, this itinerary gives you the very best of royal London, political London, and medieval London—all in just 24 hours.
So next time you’re here, grab your Oyster card, set your alarm early, and prepare for a day you’ll never forget.
Planning your London trip? Save this itinerary for later and share it with a friend who’s coming to London soon. And if you want more local tips, hidden gems, and unique London stories, make sure to follow @Londonyaar for the best of the city beyond the guidebooks.