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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 2 hours
- Check availability to see starting times
- Live tour guide
- English
- Private or small groups available
Highlighted reviews from other travelers
Jo has been an excllent tour guide! She explained all the history of the change of the guard but not only..she entertained us with a lot of insights and infos making this tour simply memorable! Highly recommended!
Our guide Joe was really nice and she gave us a lot of informations about the royal family. She know exactly where we have to be/stand, to have the best view of the guards. Really nice tour, that I would highly recommend.
Select participants and date
Itinerary
Starting location:
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
Guided tour (10 minutes)
The Mall, London
Guided tour (10 minutes)
George VI & Queen Elizabeth Memorial
Guided tour (10 minutes)
St James's Palace
Photo stop, Guided tour, Sightseeing (15 minutes)
Clarence House, London
Photo stop, Guided tour, Sightseeing (5 minutes)
St James's Park, London
Photo stop, Guided tour, Sightseeing (5 minutes)
Finish at:
Buckingham Palace
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
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.
Sundays – From April 2025, the Army is trying out a slightly different version of the usual ceremony on Sundays. It still involves the same number of guard movements and the same locations, but it’s now being called a “Parade” instead of a “Change.” There’s no word yet on how long this trial will last
Includes
- Tour guide
- Changing of the Guard viewing
- Private tour (if option selected)
- 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
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 MapsImportant 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
