Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour in London
At a glance
Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour in London is a 2h small-group experience in London, United Kingdom, operated by See The Sights Tours. Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 275 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $25.57 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: The Mall, Clarence House, Small-Group guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Highlights
- Rated 5.0/5 by 275 travellers
- Small group of up to 15 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 7 stops in one well-planned itinerary
Quick facts
- Duration
- 2h
- Group
- Small group, up to 15 travellers
- Languages
- English
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
Enjoy the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace with this small group walking tour! This walking tour gets you up close for the best views of the Guard change in a historic Royal event filled with classic British pomp and pageantry.
The tour will position you in the best front row spots for the key parts of the Changing of the Guard ceremony as you enjoy memorable views of the Old Guard, New Guard, Household Cavalry and the ceremonial military band. You’ll even finish your tour by getting your photo with the Royal Horseguards!
As well as enjoying unbeatable views of the Guard change, your walking tour is teeming with Royal history as you discover Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, Clarence House, The Mall and Horseguards Parade.
This small group tour is the best way to see the Changing of the Guard in London, filled with memorable views and fascinating history of London’s most historic Royal event that encapsulates British history and heritage in one Royal morning.
What's included
What's included
- The Mall
- Clarence House
- Small-Group guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
- St James’s Park
- St James’s Palace
- Professional Tour Guide
- Photo with the Royal Horseguards
- Buckingham Palace
Not included
- Entrance tickets to sights, landmarks or attractions
- Front gates of Buckingham Palace
- Gratuities
Itinerary
-
Stop 1 · 1h
The Changing of the Guard is a traditional ceremony showcasing the handover of duties between the King’s Guard. The ceremony features a precision display of marching, music, and military pageantry. Guards in iconic tunics and bearskin hats parade to live music. The event symbolizes British heritage and monarchy, blending discipline with centuries-old tradition.
-
Stop 2 · 10m
Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch, is a symbol of the United Kingdom's heritage and royal tradition. Surrounded by lush gardens and Royal parks, the palace remains a working institution, hosting state events and providing a regal backdrop to national celebrations.
-
Stop 3 · 15m
St James's Palace is one of Britain's oldest royal residences. Built by Henry VIII, it served as the official residence of the monarch until the 18th century. Its historic rooms host key royal events and house several royal offices with its iconic red brick façade being a symbol of British heritage.
-
Stop 4 · 10m
Clarence House, located in St James’s, London, is the official residence of King Charles III and his family. It has served as a royal home for various members of the British monarchy and hosts official events and ceremonies, playing a significant role in the British royal family’s public life.
-
Stop 5 · 10m
The Mall is a grand ceremonial avenue in central London, stretching from Buckingham Palace to Admiralty Arch. Lined with trees and flanked by royal landmarks, it serves as the site for major state events and royal processions. Known for its vibrant red surface, The Mall hosts iconic celebrations, such as royal weddings and national holidays, making it a focal point of British culture and history.
-
Stop 6 · 5m
St James's Park is one of London's most beautiful royal parks. Spanning 57 acres, it features lush gardens, a serene lake, and picturesque views of Buckingham Palace. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including pelicans and swans.
-
Stop 7 · 10m
Horse Guards Parade is a historic ceremonial ground in London, renowned for hosting royal events like Trooping the Colour. It’s home to the Royal Horseguards, an elite cavalry regiment serving as the monarch’s personal guards. Enjoy a photo standing next to the Royal Horseguards.
Meeting point
The tour starts in front of The Old Star pub in St James's. The Old Star pub is opposite St James's Park Station (Broadway Exit).
The address of The Old Star pub is 66 Broadway, London, SW1H 0DB.
Please meet your tour guide who will be holding a yellow umbrella.
Good to know
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The tour starts in front of The Old Star pub in St James's. The Old Star pub is opposite St James's Park Station (Broadway Exit). The address of The Old Star pub is 66 Broadway, London, SW1H 0DB. Please meet your tour guide who will be holding a yellow umbrella.
- The tour is not suitable for guests with walking or mobility difficulties.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchairs.
- The tour is not suitable for prams, buggys or strollers.
- The tour covers approximately 3 miles of walking.
- The tour will not go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace. Most of the ceremony is away from the front gates. If you do wish to go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace then do not book this tour.
- If it is raining or bad weather then the Changing of the Guard ceremony may be a ‘Wet Change’. This is a shortened version of the ceremony without music. This is decided by the British Army at approximately 10.30am on the day of the ceremony.
- Photos with the Royal Horseguards are subject to Guard availability.
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 Small-Group Walking Tour in London take?
The experience lasts about 2h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $25.57 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?
The Mall; Clarence House; Small-Group guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony; St James’s Park; St James’s Palace; Professional Tour Guide.
Where does it start?
The tour starts in front of The Old Star pub in St James's. The Old Star pub is opposite St James's Park Station (Broadway Exit). The address of The Old Star pub is 66 Broadway, London, SW1H 0DB. Please meet your tour guide who will be holding a yellow umbrella.
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 275 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in London.
