Will I actually see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, or just parts of it?

You'll witness multiple stages of the ceremony including inspection, Old Guard, New Guard, and the Palaces segment. The tour is specifically designed to position you where the full progression is visible, and you'll even march alongside the Ceremonial Band.

Why is this better than watching from Buckingham Palace gates on my own?

A guide positions you at strategic vantage points away from the largest crowds, keeps you mobile to follow the ceremony's movement, and ensures you see all key phases rather than missing segments while crowds shift. You also get expert context and access to the marching sections.

How much walking is involved?

This is a fast-paced walking tour that covers significant ground to follow the ceremony's movement across London. You'll encounter at least one flight of stairs, so it's not suitable for those with limited mobility or walking difficulties.

What if the ceremony is cancelled due to weather?

The Changing of the Guard ceremony typically proceeds in most weather conditions. Confirm your supplier's cancellation or rescheduling policy when you book, as procedures vary.

Is this a private tour or group tour?

This is a private walking tour, meaning your group is guided separately from other bookings. Group size and private guide availability should be confirmed at booking.

Wear comfortable, supportive walking shoes suitable for fast pacing and stairs. Bring weather-appropriate clothing, a camera or phone for photos, and consider a small backpack. Avoid bulky bags as you'll be moving quickly.

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Top Deal1 / 10

Changing of the Guard Half-Day Private Walking London Tour

Top Deal

1 / 10

Changing of the Guard Half-Day Private Walking London Tour

(3)

London, United Kingdom

Cultural ToursBus & Minivan ToursCity ToursWalking Tours

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About this activity

Witness London's most iconic ceremonial tradition from prime vantage points while moving with the action rather than waiting in crowds. This guided walking tour positions you to see multiple phases of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, including the inspection, Old Guard departure, New Guard arrival, and even march alongside the Ceremonial Band.

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

✓Strategic positioning to see the full Changing of the Guard ceremony without battling crowds at palace gates
✓March alongside the Household Regiment and Ceremonial Band in real time
✓Witness inspection, Old Guard handover, and New Guard arrival stages
✓Fast-paced, action-focused itinerary designed for dynamic viewing
✓Expert guide knowledge of ceremony protocols and royal history

Insider tips

★Arrive early and stay mobile—this tour keeps pace with the procession rather than stationing you in one spot for hours
★Wear comfortable, supportive walking shoes; you'll cover ground quickly and encounter stairs
★The best photo angles come during the march sections, so have your camera ready but stay alert to guide cues

Good to know

•Duration: 4 hours; expect brisk walking and at least one flight of stairs
•Not suitable for those with limited mobility or walking difficulties
•Private group tour—confirm exact meeting point and time with supplier upon booking
•Weather-appropriate clothing recommended; ceremony proceeds rain or shine

Who it's for

History and royal tradition enthusiastsActive travellers who prefer movement over static viewingPhotography-focused visitors seeking dynamic ceremony shotsSmall groups or families wanting a structured, guide-led experience

Best time to visit

The Changing of the Guard ceremony operates on specific days (typically Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday, but verify current schedule). Morning tours (often 10:00–14:00) align with peak ceremony times and offer better light for photography.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Priya T.

May 2026

our guide Carla was brilliant and a viewpoint locals use was the highlight, and worked great for a solo traveller like me, and 2.5 hours and never dull, def recommend

Maya B.

Jan 2026

our guide Carla was brilliant and a tiny courtyard tucked off the main drag was the highlight, and great if youre not super fit, and 10+ little stops.

Lucy J.

Aug 2025

our guide Priya couldnt do enough for us and an old bakery we stopped at for a snack was the highlight, and last day of the trip.

from€885.72/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

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