Items | Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace
Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace
(1006) Reviews
Greater London
About
Experience British tradition come to life on this fully guided Changing of the Guard walking tour. Rather than remaining in one single location, your guide will lead you to a series of vantage points to help you follow the ceremony as it unfolds.
On this tour, your guide will carefully plan the route and positioning according to the day’s schedule, crowd levels, and the movements of the guards. By moving between key locations, you’ll have the opportunity to see different elements of the ceremony and gain a fuller understanding of this historic tradition.
Throughout the experience, your guide will share the history and meaning behind the ceremony, explain the regiments, uniforms, and music,...
Highlights
2 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
2 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Changing of the Guard as it unfolds on a fully guided walking tour
Headsets when appropriate
Expert, English-speaking tour guide providing live commentary throughout the experience
If Option Selected: Tickets to the King’s Gallery (Exhibit: Queen Elizabeth II – Her Life in Style)
If Option Selected: Entry to the Royal Mews (official horse stables of the Royal Family)
Learn how tradition, discipline, and pageantry come together in this historic royal event
Gratuities
Entrance to Buckingham Palace
Meeting Points
Departure
Duke of York Monument
PLEASE NOTE! THE MEETING POINT IS NOT AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE.
By the Duke of York Column, Waterloo Place, 9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AJ. This is the tall column with a statue on top.
Return
Buckingham Palace
Outside Buckingham Palace
Important Information
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
•
The Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. Even when cancelled, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade.
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Please note weather is very changeable in London, please ensure you have rainproof clothing
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Please note that the changing of the guard schedule may change and on different dates we will see either footguards or horseguards
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On Sundays, a slightly different version of the ceremony takes place, known as the "Sunday Parade".
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Please note that access to the Royal Mews, the official stables of the British Royal Family, and The King’s Gallery for a unique viewing of Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style is only available if the 'Upgrade Option' is selected
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
•
For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
•
Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
•
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
•
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
•
Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
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Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace
(1006) Reviews
Greater London
Select Date & Travelers
From
$19.50
Price varies by group size
About
Experience British tradition come to life on this fully guided Changing of the Guard walking tour. Rather than remaining in one single location, your guide will lead you to a series of vantage points to help you follow the ceremony as it unfolds.
On this tour, your guide will carefully plan the route and positioning according to the day’s schedule, crowd levels, and the movements of the guards. By moving between key locations, you’ll have the opportunity to see different elements of the ceremony and gain a fuller understanding of this historic tradition.
Throughout the experience, your guide will share the history and meaning behind the ceremony, explain the regiments, uniforms, and music,...
Highlights
2 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
2 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Changing of the Guard as it unfolds on a fully guided walking tour
Headsets when appropriate
Expert, English-speaking tour guide providing live commentary throughout the experience
If Option Selected: Tickets to the King’s Gallery (Exhibit: Queen Elizabeth II – Her Life in Style)
If Option Selected: Entry to the Royal Mews (official horse stables of the Royal Family)
Learn how tradition, discipline, and pageantry come together in this historic royal event
Gratuities
Entrance to Buckingham Palace
Meeting Points
Departure
Duke of York Monument
PLEASE NOTE! THE MEETING POINT IS NOT AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE.
By the Duke of York Column, Waterloo Place, 9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AJ. This is the tall column with a statue on top.
The tour begins at this impressive column dedicated to Prince Frederick, Duke of York. Your guide will introduce the history of the monument and set the royal context for the tour, explaining its connection to The Mall and ceremonial London.
2
The Mall
As you walk down The Mall, your guide will explain its role as the ceremonial route used for royal processions, state visits, and major national celebrations. Guests will enjoy views toward Buckingham Palace and learn about its royal and political significance.
3
Changing of the Guard
Your regal tour begins at the Duke of York Column, located in St. James’, where you’ll greet your guide, don a personal headset, and receive a historical overview of the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Many tourists make the mistake of viewing the ceremony outside of Buckingham Palace. However on this tour, handpicked vantage points ensure you get the best views of the royal tradition while listening to commentary that explains each part of the performance.
Marvel at the shimmering coats of the household cavalry as their riders control the horses with expert precision; capture photographs of the iconic red and black attire of the King’s foot soldiers; and, move quickly between vantage points in a small group of only 15 people.
1 hour and 30 minutes
4
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Memorial
While passing the memorial, your guide will briefly explain the importance of King George VI and the Queen Mother, particularly their role during WWII and their impact on modern Britain.
5
Clarence House
The official residence of King Charles III (formerly home to the Queen Mother and Prince Charles). Guests will hear stories about its royal residents and its ongoing importance within the Royal Family.
6
St. James's Park
A relaxing walk through London’s oldest royal park. Guests will enjoy beautiful views of the lake, Buckingham Palace in the distance, and possibly the famous pelicans. The guide can explain the park’s royal origins and wildlife.
7
St. James's Palace
One of the oldest royal palaces in London, dating back to Henry VIII. Your guide will explain its Tudor origins, its role today, and its importance in royal proclamations.
8
Buckingham Palace
Your tour concludes outside of Buckingham Palace.
Please note: The Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. Even when cancelled, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade.
