Guided Tours

Changing of the Guard Tour with Optional Buckingham Palace Entry

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Walk in the footsteps of Britain’s Royals and learn interesting facts about their lives on this guided tour and see the famous changing of the guard!

Highlights

Experience the iconic Changing of the Foot Guards at Buckingham Palace on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. On other days, catch the Changing of the Horse Guards instead.
Take a stroll through royal settings like St. James's Park, the Mall, and St. James's Palace, while your guide shares fascinating stories.
Discover quirky spots such as The Queen's favorite alcohol shop and Prince Philip's barber for a unique experience.
Upgrade your tour to explore inside Buckingham Palace, with entry to the State Rooms, open to the public for only two months a year.
Fun Fact: Those iconic guards' hats? They're not bearskin but synthetic fur, reflecting a commitment to animal rights.

Inclusions

Changing of the Guard Ceremony
1.5 hour walking tour
Expert English-speaking tour guide
Audio headsets
Small group tour of 20 people or fewer
Entry to Buckingham Palace State Rooms (optional)

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Reviews

4.4

1.1K ratings

5/5

772

4/5

186

3/5

2/5

1/5

Janet

4/5

Jul, 2024

The experience at Buckingham Palace was really good, however the walk there was disappointing. We lost the guide, along with a few others as she told us to take a look at the guards walking back up the Mall and when we turned back she was gone! There was no way of seeing her as she had no flag, etc. As a fellow Brit, my biggest disappointment was her complete lack of respect for the Monarchy. Coughing when she mentioned Queen Camilla, calling Queen Victoria 'Vicky' and calling the guards 'fluffy hats'. This is just a few of the comments made, there were many more. I wondered why she was in the job, as she obviously doesn't like the Monarchy. If I pay for a guided tour then I expect the person to know facts abd names as well as use the correct names. Assuming that everyone on the tour is interested in the Monarchy, then disrespecting the current Queen is not professional, and her own views should not have been expressed. I would not recommend this tour if you want to learn about the Monarchy or have a tour guide who actually likes them.

Cristiane

5/5

Jul, 2024

Sophie was absolutely amazing. We were able to see the changing of the guards up close. She is very knowledgeable about the history and shared some fun facts that I didn't know.

Caroline

5/5

Jul, 2024

Jeremy, our guide for the Changing of the Guards, was excellent!! We were able to see the band and the Guards from a few vantage points which was fun. Jeremy also was full of intereting information about Buckingham Palace and the surrounding parks and palace. I would highly recomment taking this tour.

Scott

4/5

Jul, 2024

Our guide Kevin was very informative and entertaining...moving at just the right time and pace. We got to see everything we had hoped to so overall we were pleased... thank you

Xeni

4/5

Jul, 2024

Michael was an excellent guide and we were all amazed by his knowledge and the way he described everything to us. Unfortunately we couldn't experience the change of the guard

Your Experience

Experience Royal London Like Never Before

Embark on an immersive tour that unravels the grandeur of British tradition, on this guided tour to see the changing of the guard. Witness the iconic changing of the guard outside Buckingham Palace. These guards, in their distinctive red tunics and faux bearskin hats, make for an unforgettable sight. With a personal headset, your guide's lively commentary brings alive every intricate detail of this tradition.

Engage with History and Pageantry

Enjoy a tranquil stroll through St James's Park, the oldest Royal Park in London, known for its resident pelicans. If you opt for the London walking tour, your journey begins at The Mall where you will admire the majestic view towards Buckingham Palace. Led by an expert English-speaking guide, you'll move onto the vibrant St James's Palace/Horse Guards Parade. Or opt to visit Buckingham Palace with an audio guide as you see the exquisite Royal Collection.

Know Before You Go

Important Information

Changing of the Foot Guards Ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday, you’ll experience the change of the Household Cavalry.
This is a walking tour with a fair amount of walking. Please wear comfortable clothing and footwear

My tickets

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

Meeting Point

Meet your guide at Duke of York Monument.
Address: St. James's, London SW1Y 5AJ, United Kingdom.
Guide Identifier: Your guide will be holding a sign or a flag with the name City Wonders written on it.

Get Directions to the Meeting Point

Getting There

By Bus

The closest bus stop is Trafalgar Square (Stop T). It is a quick 3-minute walk to the meeting point.
Board buses 12, 88, and more to get you there.

By Subway

The closest subway station is Charing Cross. It is a quick 5-minute walk to the meeting point.
Board subway line Bakerloo or Northern to get you there.

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