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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 the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace from prime viewing positions, guided by a local expert who breaks down the ritual's history and significance. This 2.5-hour walking tour combines close-up views of the Royal Guards, Household Cavalry, and regimental bands with insights into London's most important royal and government landmarks.

Get up close to the world famous Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace! The Changing of the Guard is the changeover of the Royal guard and, on this London walking tour, you'll stand in the best spots to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, march next to the guards and get fantastic photos!

Throughout the tour your local guide will explain each step of the Changing of the Guard ceremony process as you watch the Royal Guards, the Household Cavalry and the Regimental Musical Bands march towards Buckingham Palace in one of the most inspiring & traditional British events in all its glorious pomp & pageantry.

You’ll also learn about Royal landmarks including Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and Clarence House as well as discover the home of British Royalty and Government at Big Ben, Westminster Abbey & Houses of Parliament.

The Changing of the Guard is one of the most historical and cultural London events and now you can enjoy it up close on one of the best tours in London.

Highlights

  • Front-row positioning for the Changing of the Guard ceremony
  • Walk alongside marching guards and capture professional-quality photos
  • Expert commentary on the ceremony's protocols and 350+ year history
  • See Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace, and Clarence House
  • Learn about Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben

Insider tips

  • Arrive early at the meeting point to secure the best vantage spots before crowds build
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes—you'll cover several London blocks and stand for extended periods
  • Bring a camera with a good zoom; the guards march past but distance varies depending on crowd positioning
  • The ceremony happens mid-morning most days; check the Royal Collection Trust website beforehand as timings can shift

Good to know

  • Tour duration is 2 hours 30 minutes; wear weather-appropriate clothing as you'll be outdoors throughout
  • Comfortable walking shoes essential; the route includes multiple historic sites across central London
  • Meeting point and exact start time will be provided upon booking confirmation
  • Large groups may be split; this ensures smaller cohorts get better viewing angles

Who it's for

First-time visitors to London seeking iconic British experiencesHistory and royal heritage enthusiastsPhotography lovers wanting curated shots of ceremonial pageantryFamilies with school-age children interested in British culture and traditions

Best time to visit

The Changing of the Guard typically occurs mid-morning (10:30 AM–11:15 AM) on most days; check local schedules as times vary seasonally. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, though you'll still encounter significant foot traffic during peak tourist season (May–September).

Frequently asked questions

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From€16
per person