Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace
At a glance
Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace is a 2h small-group experience in London, United Kingdom, operated by City Wonders UK. Travellers rate it 4.4 out of 5 across 1,114 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $18.84 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Changing of the Guard as it unfolds on a fully guided walking tour, Headsets when appropriate, Expert, English-speaking tour guide providing live commentary throughout the experience.
Highlights
- Small group of up to 20 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 8 stops in one well-planned itinerary
Quick facts
- Duration
- 2h
- Group
- Small group, up to 20 travellers
- Languages
- English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
Experience British tradition come to life on this fully guided Changing of the Guard walking tour. Rather than remaining in one single location, your guide will lead you to a series of vantage points to help you follow the ceremony as it unfolds.
On this tour, your guide will carefully plan the route and positioning according to the day’s schedule, crowd levels, and the movements of the guards. By moving between key locations, you’ll have the opportunity to see different elements of the ceremony and gain a fuller understanding of this historic tradition.
Throughout the experience, your guide will share the history and meaning behind the ceremony, explain the regiments, uniforms, and music, navigate the crowds as efficiently as possible, and adapt the route when necessary to make the most of the day’s conditions.
What's included
What's included
- Changing of the Guard as it unfolds on a fully guided walking tour
- Headsets when appropriate
- Expert, English-speaking tour guide providing live commentary throughout the experience
- If Option Selected: Tickets to the King’s Gallery (Exhibit: Queen Elizabeth II – Her Life in Style)
- If Option Selected: Entry to the Royal Mews (official horse stables of the Royal Family)
- Learn how tradition, discipline, and pageantry come together in this historic royal event
Not included
- Gratuities
- Entrance to Buckingham Palace
Itinerary
-
Stop 1
The tour begins at this impressive column dedicated to Prince Frederick, Duke of York. Your guide will introduce the history of the monument and set the royal context for the tour, explaining its connection to The Mall and ceremonial London.
-
Stop 2
As you walk down The Mall, your guide will explain its role as the ceremonial route used for royal processions, state visits, and major national celebrations. Guests will enjoy views toward Buckingham Palace and learn about its royal and political significance.
-
Stop 3 · 1h 30m
Your regal tour begins at the Duke of York Column, located in St. James’, where you’ll greet your guide, don a personal headset, and receive a historical overview of the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Many tourists make the mistake of viewing the ceremony outside of Buckingham Palace. However on this tour, handpicked vantage points ensure you get the best views of the royal tradition while listening to commentary that explains each part of the performance.
Marvel at the shimmering coats of the household cavalry as their riders control the horses with expert precision; capture photographs of the iconic red and black attire of the King’s foot soldiers; and, move quickly between vantage points in a small group of only 15 people. -
Stop 4
While passing the memorial, your guide will briefly explain the importance of King George VI and the Queen Mother, particularly their role during WWII and their impact on modern Britain.
-
Stop 5
The official residence of King Charles III (formerly home to the Queen Mother and Prince Charles). Guests will hear stories about its royal residents and its ongoing importance within the Royal Family.
-
Stop 6
A relaxing walk through London’s oldest royal park. Guests will enjoy beautiful views of the lake, Buckingham Palace in the distance, and possibly the famous pelicans. The guide can explain the park’s royal origins and wildlife.
-
Stop 7
One of the oldest royal palaces in London, dating back to Henry VIII. Your guide will explain its Tudor origins, its role today, and its importance in royal proclamations.
-
Stop 8
Your tour concludes outside of Buckingham Palace.
Please note: The Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. Even when cancelled, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade.
Meeting point
PLEASE NOTE! THE MEETING POINT IS NOT AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE.
By the Duke of York Column, Waterloo Place, 9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AJ. This is the tall column with a statue on top.
Good to know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. Even when cancelled, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade.
- Please note weather is very changeable in London, please ensure you have rainproof clothing
- Please note that the changing of the guard schedule may change and on different dates we will see either footguards or horseguards
- On Sundays, a slightly different version of the ceremony takes place, known as the "Sunday Parade".
- Please note that access to the Royal Mews, the official stables of the British Royal Family, and The King’s Gallery for a unique viewing of Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style is only available if the 'Upgrade Option' is selected
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 Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace take?
The experience lasts about 2h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $18.84 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?
Changing of the Guard as it unfolds on a fully guided walking tour; Headsets when appropriate; Expert, English-speaking tour guide providing live commentary throughout the experience; If Option Selected: Tickets to the King’s Gallery (Exhibit: Queen Elizabeth II – Her Life in Style); If Option Selected: Entry to the Royal Mews (official horse stables of the Royal Family); Learn how tradition, discipline, and pageantry come together in this historic royal event.
Where does it start?
PLEASE NOTE! THE MEETING POINT IS NOT AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE. By the Duke of York Column, Waterloo Place, 9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AJ. This is the tall column with a statue on top.
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 4.4 out of 5 across 1,114 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in London.
