Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace Experience
At a glance
Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace Experience is a 2h guided experience in London, United Kingdom, operated by Fantastic Walks. Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 812 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $39.03 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Expert local guide, Prime viewing spots.
Highlights
- Rated 5.0/5 by 812 travellers
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 5 stops in one well-planned itinerary
Quick facts
- Duration
- 2h
- Group
- Small group, up to 35 travellers
- Languages
- English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
This is the highest-rated Changing of the Guard walking tour on Viator and Tripadvisor.
Led by a historian and designed with a former Guardsman, this tour gives you the historical context, insider knowledge and the best viewing spots for the capital’s most iconic ceremony. Not only that, you'll get to walk alongside the Guards and ceremonial band as they march down The Mall—yes, it is as exciting as it sounds.
You'll see Buckingham Palace, of course, but you'll also visit St James's Palace and Clarence House, discovering how these royal residences fit into this world-famous ceremony. If we're lucky—it does happen—you might even catch a glimpse of the King or Queen.
Just as importantly, there'll be plenty of fun and laughter along the way.
At the end of the tour, as the crowds begin to disperse, you can either go to the gates of Buckingham Palace for some fantastic photo opportunities or walk back to Trafalgar Square with your guide and enjoy some bonus sightseeing along the way.
What's included
What's included
- Expert local guide
- Prime viewing spots
Not included
- Gratuities/tips
Itinerary
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Stop 1 · 10m
We begin in Trafalgar Square, the historic heart of London. Not only is it easy to find, it also has a direct link to the origins of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. While you're here, we'll show you the spot that marks the very centre of London. You'll also discover why Lord Horatio Nelson is one of Britain's greatest heroes, what we did with all the cannons captured from the defeated French, and why it might be worth patting the paw of one of the famous lion statues.
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Stop 2
This palace rivals Buckingham Palace and is a must-see in its own right. It’s also where the Guards come off duty, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes perspective of the ceremony. One of London’s most historic sites, it’s steeped in centuries of history, scandal and intrigue. Not every tour includes it — but we most definitely do.
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Stop 3
One of the highlights of the tour is marching alongside the King's Guards and their ceremonial band as they make their way down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace. Few experiences bring you closer to the spectacle. You'll hear the military music, watch the precision drill at close quarters, and enjoy views that most visitors never even realise are possible.
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Stop 4 · 15m
This immense Georgian barracks is where the Changing of the Guard both begins and ends, and we will be here to see the new Guard come on duty.
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Stop 5
Your Changing of the Guard experience concludes outside Clarence House, the home of the King and Queen - which is just a couple of minutes away from Buckingham Palace. It will also be a final opportunity to see the Guards and the ceremonial band, and we are likely to see the Horse Guards as well. From here, it’s a short walk to Green Park or St James’s Park stations, or around 15 minutes on foot to Trafalgar Square or Parliament Square.
Meeting point
Your guide will be holding a red Fantastic Walks flag and wearing a Fantastic Walks rucksack. Please be at the meeting point ten minutes before the scheduled start time. If you're late, head along The Mall to Friary Court, St James's Palace.
Good to know
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for those using a motorized cart.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace Experience take?
The experience lasts about 2h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $39.03 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Expert local guide; Prime viewing spots.
Where does it start?
Your guide will be holding a red Fantastic Walks flag and wearing a Fantastic Walks rucksack. Please be at the meeting point ten minutes before the scheduled start time. If you're late, head along The Mall to Friary Court, St James's Palace.
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 812 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in London.
