Changing of the Guard Walking Tour with Local Guide
At a glance
Changing of the Guard Walking Tour with Local Guide is a 2h small-group experience in London, United Kingdom, operated by London Unscripted. Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 16 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $67.29 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: A Local Guide.
Highlights
- Small group of up to 15 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 5 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
Experience London’s most famous royal ceremony with a guide who shows you the best vantage points and explains every moment of the spectacle whilst avoiding huge crowds.
Starting at the Duke of York Column, engage with a trained actor guide who shares captivating stories and insights as you move between key locations like St James's Palace and Buckingham Palace. This tour ensures you see the Guards up close and learn about their history and uniform. This dynamic experience is perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike, offering a fun and informative afternoon in the heart of London.
On this tour you will:
- Witness one of Britain’s most spectacular royal traditions up close
- Stand just feet from the Guards in full ceremonial uniform
- March alongside the military bands and processions
- See multiple stages of the ceremony from the best vantage points
- Visit the exterior of St James's Palace, Wellington Barracks and Buckingham Palace
What's included
What's included
- A Local Guide
Not included
- Bottled water
- Public transportation
Itinerary
-
Stop 1 · 10m
At the memorial to King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, you’ll hear the story of a reluctant king who led Britain through the Second World War, and the Queen who stood firmly by his side, becoming one of the nation’s most beloved figures.
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Stop 2 · 25m
Here you'll watch the Old Guard line up for inspection and hear the military band strike up! You’ll discover one of London’s oldest royal residences, built by Henry VIII, and hear how it once served as the official home of the monarch before Buckingham Palace took centre stage.
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Stop 3 · 30m
Follow the action across royal London, learning how the ceremony works, how to distinguish the Guards by their uniforms and learn about the fascinating history of the area. Capture fantastic photographs of the iconic red tunics and bearskin hats of the King’s Foot Guards.
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Stop 4 · 15m
Watch the New Guard march out of Wellington Barracks and towards Buckingham Palace
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Stop 5 · 20m
At Buckingham Palace, you’ll learn how this grand building evolved from a private townhouse into the official residence of the British monarch, and hear how it continues to serve as the centre of modern royal life, so much so that Queen Elizabeth II simply referred to it as “the office.”
Meeting point
Meet your expert guide at the Duke of York Column, the starting point for your journey into the spectacle of the Changing of the Guard. Conveniently located, the nearest Underground stations are Charing Cross and Piccadilly Circus.
Good to know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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 Walking Tour with Local Guide take?
The experience lasts about 2h.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $67.29 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?
A Local Guide.
Where does it start?
Meet your expert guide at the Duke of York Column, the starting point for your journey into the spectacle of the Changing of the Guard. Conveniently located, the nearest Underground stations are Charing Cross and Piccadilly Circus.
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 16 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in London.
