What time does the Changing of the Guard ceremony happen?

Ceremony times vary by season and day of the week. Summer typically sees ceremonies 2–3 times per week in the mornings, while winter is less frequent. Your guide will confirm the exact timing when you book and brief you before the tour starts.

Will I definitely see the ceremony if I book this tour?

Tours are timed to coincide with the official ceremony schedule, but royal events can be postponed or rerouted due to official engagements. Your guide will communicate any changes in real-time during the tour.

Can I go inside Buckingham Palace or the royal residences?

No—this tour focuses on the outdoor ceremony and palace exteriors. Interior visits to palaces like Buckingham Palace require separate tickets and are subject to availability.

Is this tour suitable for young children?

Yes, children enjoy the spectacle and colour of the ceremony. However, the tour involves 2.5 hours of standing and walking, so consider your child's stamina. Strollers may be difficult to navigate in crowds.

What should I bring for this tour?

Bring a camera or smartphone for photos, comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones feature heavily), a jacket or layers for weather, and water. Consider sunscreen in summer. The tour is mostly outdoors, so weather preparedness is important.

How crowded is the Changing of the Guard ceremony?

It's one of London's most popular free attractions, so expect significant crowds, especially in summer. The tour positions you at strategic viewing spots, but arriving early with your guide helps secure the best vantage point.

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Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London

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London, United Kingdom

Cultural ToursCity ToursWalking ToursSightseeing ToursAttractions

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About this activity

Witness one of London's most iconic ceremonies as immaculately uniformed guards in red tunics and bearskin hats perform the formal Changing of the Guard at royal palaces. This 2.5-hour guided walking tour positions you at prime viewing spots to photograph the military band, mounted cavalry, and historical pageantry while learning the stories behind centuries of royal tradition.

Our Changing of the Guard tour ensures you don't miss a moment of the action. Standing in the best spots around London’s Royal Palaces, you'll capture incredible photos as the immaculately dressed soldiers, with their famous bearskin hats and red tunics, march to the stirring tunes of the military band.

Along the way your knowledgeable Changing of the Guard tour guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of this centuries-old ceremony, making sure you understand the nuances of what you’re witnessing. Subject to schedule your Changing of the Guard tour will also give you the opportunity to get great photos of the Royal Horseguards of the Household Cavalry.

Your Changing of the Guard tour also includes stops at the key ceremony and royal landmarks. You’ll discover the incredible history of Buckingham Palace, get up close to London’s senior Royal palace at St James’s Palace and Clarence House, the official London residence of His Majesty King Charles III.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a visitor looking to soak in the grandeur of British tradition, our Changing of the Guard Tour offers an unparalleled experience. Immerse yourself in royal pageantry and enjoy the most comprehensive views of this quintessentially British ceremony. Book your Changing of the Guard Tour today and witness London’s royal heritage like never before.

Highlights

✓Best viewing positions for the Changing of the Guard ceremony
✓Close-up views of the Household Cavalry and their iconic bearskins
✓Live military band performance during the ceremony
✓Stops at Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace, and Clarence House
✓Expert guide commentary on royal history and ceremony significance
✓Opportunity to capture professional-quality photographs

Insider tips

★The ceremony schedule varies by season and day; confirm timing before booking to ensure you catch the actual changing (typically mornings, 2–3 times per week in summer, less frequently in winter)
★Arrive early at your meeting point to secure the best viewing spots, as popular vantage areas fill quickly
★Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring layers, as you'll spend time standing outdoors watching the ceremony
★Position yourself with a clear sightline early if you're serious about photography—the mounted cavalry and band move through specific routes

Good to know

•Duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes of mostly standing and walking
•Weather-dependent activity; ceremony proceeds in rain but can be uncomfortable for observers
•Ceremony timing subject to official royal schedule changes; guide will provide live updates
•Includes several walking segments between palaces; pace is leisurely but expect cobblestone streets
•No special access inside palaces included—this is an outdoor ceremony and palace exterior tour

Who it's for

History and royal heritage enthusiastsFirst-time London visitors seeking iconic British experiencesPhotography hobbyists wanting professional framing and timing guidanceFamilies with children interested in military pageantry and palaces

Best time to visit

Summer months (May–September) see more frequent ceremonies and better weather, though expect larger crowds. Winter ceremonies are less frequent. Morning is traditional ceremony time; book a tour aligned with the official changing schedule for that day.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Ray S.

May 2026

So nice this one, a tiny courtyard tucked off the main drag was amazing and Kemal the guide explain everything good. Better than Athens for sure, we go again!

Greg L.

Feb 2026

our guide Luca was brilliant and a backstreet mural the guide spotted was the highlight ... Last day of the trip so it wasnt too busy. Blew our athens one out of the water, and covered about 5km on foot. Would book again no question.

Carlos G.

Mar 2025

Not bad but not great, a viewpoint locals use we like but 10+ little stops only. Maybe can improve, little bit expensive.

from€16.54€16.41/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

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