London: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

The iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony in London is a must-see for any visitor to the city. This guided walking tour takes you up close to the action, allowing you to witness the pageantry of this time-honored tradition. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore historic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben while learning about the rich history and significance behind the ceremonial spectacle. With stunning photo opportunities and the chance to march alongside the Royal Guards, this 2.5-hour experience promises an unforgettable glimpse into London’s royal heritage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers a unique perspective that…

Contents hide

1 Good To Know

2 Tour Overview

3 Ceremony Highlights

9 Booking and Cancellation

10 Frequently Asked Questions

11 Sum Up

Good To Know

Guided 2.5-hour walking tour to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, including visits to other iconic London landmarks.
Opportunity to march alongside the Royal Guards and capture photos during the choreographed display.
Tour led by a knowledgeable local guide who provides historical context and insights about the ceremony.
Included visits to St James’s Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.
Reservations available online with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The London: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the ceremonial tradition that has captivated audiences for centuries.

Priced from $18.73 per person, this 2.5-hour guided tour takes participants through the heart of London to observe the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Guests will stand in the best spots to view the spectacle, march alongside the Royal Guards, and capture fantastic photos.

The tour also includes visits to other notable landmarks such as St James’s Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.

Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this experience is sure to delight and educate.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.

Ceremony Highlights

Witnessing the time-honored Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace is the centerpiece of this walking tour.

Guests will stand in the best spots to observe as the New Guard relieves the Old Guard in a precise, choreographed display. Marching alongside the iconic red-coated Royal Guards, tour participants can capture fantastic photos as they move in perfect synchronization.

The guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the history and traditions behind this ceremonial ritual.

Beyond the guard change, the tour also takes visitors to other renowned landmarks like St James’s Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament, offering a comprehensive experience of London’s iconic sights.

What’s Included

As part of the London: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour, guests can expect a comprehensive experience that includes a guided tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

The tour provides access to view the Royal landmarks and is led by a knowledgeable local guide from an award-winning tour company.

The tour includes witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, standing in the best spots for viewing, and marching alongside the Royal Guards to capture fantastic photos.

However, the tour excludes entrance fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, food and drinks, and gratuities, so guests should plan accordingly.

Meeting Details

Guests should meet at the Victoria Palace Theatre, opposite Victoria Station, located at Victoria Street, London SW1E 5EA. The meeting point is marked by a clock in front of the theatre, and participants should look for a guide holding a yellow umbrella. To ensure a smooth experience, guests are advised to arrive 10 minutes early for check-in.

Security Restrictions	Permitted Items	Prohibited Items
No pets	Handbags	Oversized luggage
No large bags	Small backpacks	Large bags

The tour may be affected by weather conditions, and a Wet Change ceremony without music may occur if necessary. Guests should be prepared for changes in the schedule.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers have raved about the knowledgeable tour guides, with one guest from Israel noting the guide Rachel’s ability to thoroughly explain the ceremony and answer questions.

A German traveler found the experience informative, praising the guide’s detailed explanations about the Changing of the Guard.

Reviewers consistently highlighted the tour’s informative nature, with one mentioning the guide’s expertise in bringing the event to life.

While the tours are primarily offered in English, a French traveler suggested providing a French translation to accommodate non-English speakers.

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Photography Tips

With the Changing of the Guard ceremony being a highly visual event, the walking tour provides ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs.

Here are four tips to help you get the most out of your photography experience:

Arrive early to secure the best vantage points for unobstructed views and clear shots.
Use a camera with a zoom lens to capture the intricate details of the guards’ uniforms and the ceremony.
Experiment with different angles and perspectives to find the most compelling compositions.
Be mindful of the tour guide’s instructions to ensure you don’t disrupt the ceremony or other participants’ experiences.

Tour Duration

The Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving visitors ample time to witness the full ceremonial procession and explore the surrounding landmarks.

During this tour, guests will have the opportunity to stand in the best spots for viewing the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

The guided tour also includes visits to other iconic sites, such as St James’s Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.

With an expert local guide leading the way, travelers can expect an informative and engaging experience, ensuring they make the most of their time in the heart of London.

Booking and Cancellation

Customers can easily reserve their spot on the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour through the online booking platform.

The tour is bookable on a pay-later basis, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. To ensure availability, it’s recommended to reserve early as the tour is likely to sell out.

The booking process is straightforward:

Select the desired starting time and date.
Provide the number of participants.
Complete the booking and secure the reservation.
Receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details.

This flexible booking policy allows customers to plan their London trip with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ceremony Canceled if It Rains?

The ceremony may be altered due to weather, as a "Wet Change" can occur without music. However, the tour typically proceeds, providing an opportunity to observe the modified ceremony and learn about the traditions.

Can I Bring My Children on the Tour?

Yes, children are welcome on the tour. However, security restrictions prohibit large bags and oversized luggage. Families should arrive 10 minutes early for check-in and expect to carry any necessary items.

Is There a Restroom Break During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specifically include a restroom break, but your guide can likely point out public restrooms along the route if needed. Be sure to use the facilities before the tour begins.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets for the Tour?

Yes, you’ll need to purchase tickets for the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour. Tickets can be booked online and paid for in advance, and are required to participate in the guided tour.

How Do I Recognize the Tour Guide?

The tour guide will be holding a yellow umbrella and standing in front of the Victoria Palace Theatre, opposite Victoria Station, at the meeting point. Arrive 10 minutes early to check in with the guide.

Sum Up

The Changing of the Guard walking tour in London offers an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to witness the iconic ceremony up close while exploring historic landmarks. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides insights into the rich traditions and history, making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city. With convenient meeting details, flexible booking options, and positive customer feedback, this tour is a practical and engaging way to take in London’s royal heritage.