Anytime

London: Changing of The Guard Tour

4.8  / 52100 reviews
creatorjulinaexplores
Media collage
Media collage
Media collage
London: Changing of The Guard Tour
4.8  / 52100 reviews

Get closer to the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony in London on a private or small-group tour led by a local. Discover the significance behind one of the most iconic British traditions.

About this tour

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 105 minutes - 3.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Private or small groups available

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

J
Joanne – Australia

I enjoyed the tour very much. Babs is very knowledgeable and ensured we got the best experience. Not even the wet and cold morning was a deterrent.

J
Joanne – Australia
K
Kwanmin – South Korea

Francis was the best guide ever in my whole life. He not only led us the best spot for the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, but also shared historic stories so that I could understand more about the event. Moreover, I could feel his pride in the tour which helped me to get into the tour more and more. He carefully and gently took care of all the tour group. Just perfect tour. Thank you for all your effort.

K
Kwanmin – South Korea

The Original experience

Itinerary

  • Timeline stop icon

    Starting location:

    Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ

  • Timeline stop icon

    Guided tour (10 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    The Mall, London

    Guided tour (10 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    George VI & Queen Elizabeth Memorial

    Guided tour (10 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    St James's Palace

    Photo stop, Guided tour, Sightseeing (15 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    Clarence House, London

    Photo stop, Guided tour, Sightseeing (5 minutes)

  • Timeline stop icon

    St James's Park, London

    Photo stop, Guided tour, Sightseeing (5 minutes)

  • Finish at:

    Buckingham Palace

Main stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • March to the beating drum of this world-famous British ceremony
  • Get an in-depth look into British history, tradition, and the royal family
  • Follow the guards on their journey towards Buckingham Palace on foot
  • Uncover the lesser-known symbolism behind every button, gesture, and color
  • Take part in British culture and enjoy an authentic experience in London

Full description

Join the guards as they march towards Buckingham Palace on a unique guided tour in London. Get closer for fantastic photo opportunities and delve deep into the history behind the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Meet your local guide for your private or small group tour (depending on the option booked) and set off on your unforgettable Changing of the Guard experience. As you follow the guards on their march towards Buckingham Palace, your guide will give meaning to one of the oldest and most iconic British ceremonies. You'll soon know your Welsh from your Grenadier, and become an expert in fuzzy bearskin hats. Trace the origins of this dazzling London spectacle and get a handle on the significance of every color, button, mascot, symbol, and movement in this most British of traditions. Feel the thrill as you march to the beating drums of the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony on this one-of-a-kind experience in London.

Includes

  • Tour guide
  • Changing of the Guard viewing
  • Private tour (if option selected)
  • Entry to Buckingham Palace
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Tips

Not suitable for

  • People with back problems
  • People with mobility impairments
  • People with heart problems
  • People with respiratory issues

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Meet the guide by the Equestrian statue of Edward VII, Waterloo Place. Look for the statue of a man on a horse and a sign saying "Urban Saunters." Arriving by tube: Take the tube to Piccadilly Circus and take exit No. 3 onto Regent Street/St. James's. Walk south down Regent Street towards St. James's Park (do not walk north towards Oxford Street). Waterloo Place is at the end of Regent Street.

Open in Google Maps

Important information

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Umbrella
  • Water
  • Comfortable clothes

Not allowed

  • Luggage or large bags

Know before you go

  • This tour takes place rain or shine
  • You will not stand at the forecourt of Buckingham Palace as, due to crowds, you would see very little
  • It is at the discretion of the British Army to change or cancel the ceremony. The announcement will not be made until after 10:30 AM
  • If the full ceremony is canceled, there will still be the chance to see the guards marching without the music

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 2100 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Value for money
    4.7/5

Customer photos

Media collage
Media collage
Media collage
Media collage
Media collage
+173

Filter

By star rating

Sort by:
Recommended
J
Joanne – AustraliaJanuary 6, 2025  – Verified booking
I enjoyed the tour very much. Babs is very knowledgeable and ensured we got the best experience. Not even the wet and cold morning was a deterrent.
Helpful?
K
Kwanmin – South KoreaJanuary 5, 2025  – Verified booking
Francis was the best guide ever in my whole life. He not only led us the best spot for the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, but also shared historic stories so that I could understand more about the event. Moreover, I could feel his pride in the tour which helped me to get into the tour more and more. He carefully and gently took care of all the tour group. Just perfect tour. Thank you for all your effort.
Helpful?
J
Jean-Marc – SwitzerlandJanuary 4, 2025  – Verified booking
Francis is a wonderful story teller who loves his job.
Helpful?

Product ID: 413142

Activity provider:Urban Saunters Ltd

Top Attractions in London

Experiences in London

Tours in England

Things to do in England

Top destinations

Popular on GetYourGuide

Popular Attractions