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Changing of the Guard Half-Day Private Walking London Tour

(5)
London, United Kingdom
Cultural ToursBus & Minivan ToursCity ToursWalking Tours
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About this activity

Watch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace from prime vantage points while a guide navigates you through the parade route to catch multiple stages—inspection, Old Guard, New Guard, and the ceremonial bands. This private walking tour beats crowded gate viewing by positioning you strategically along the march.

The Changing of the Guard has been a tradition for hundreds of years whereby the Household Regiment, the Queen’s Guards at Buckingham Palace, change shift in a fascinating show of pomp and circumstance.
This is a walking tour which ensures you to be at the best position available to see this extraordinary Changing the Guard ceremony while avoiding the crowds at the gates of Buckingham Palace. Rather than standing still for hours and hours, you witness various stages of this cultural ceremony, including the inspection, Old Guard, New Guard, Palaces, and even march alongside the Guards and Ceremonial Bands!

If you like a fast-paced tour, with plenty of action, excitement and fun, join this walk. In order to stay ahead of the crowds, we do have to move quickly at times – at one point we will even be marching alongside the band! We will also encounter at least one flight of steps so unfortunately, it is the only one of our tours which is not suitable for people with walking difficulties.

Highlights

  • ✓Witness the full Changing of the Guard ceremony from optimal viewing spots
  • ✓March alongside the Household Regiment and Ceremonial Bands
  • ✓See the inspection, Old Guard handover, and New Guard procession
  • ✓Avoid the dense crowds queuing at Buckingham Palace gates
  • ✓Fast-paced, action-packed route with a knowledgeable private guide

Insider tips

  • ★Arrive early and wear comfortable shoes—you'll be moving quickly between multiple vantage points to catch different stages of the ceremony
  • ★The tour involves climbing at least one flight of stairs; choose this only if you're comfortable with a brisk pace and some steps
  • ★Bring a camera or phone with good battery; the ceremonial bands and guards in full regalia are highly photogenic

Good to know

  • •Duration: 4 hours of active walking and standing
  • •Not suitable for people with mobility difficulties or those unable to manage stairs
  • •Private tour (group size not specified); confirm exact meeting location and time with supplier upon booking
  • •Ceremony timing varies by season; confirm operating dates before booking

Who it's for

History and heritage enthusiasts keen to experience Britain's ceremonial traditionsPhotography lovers wanting professional vantage points of the guards in full regaliaActive travellers who enjoy brisk-paced walking tours with historical contextVisitors seeking a smaller, more personalized experience than standing in gate queues

Best time to visit

Check the official Changing of the Guard schedule before booking, as the ceremony doesn't occur every day and times shift seasonally. Aim for a clear morning or early afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€894
per person