from
$29
Changing of the Guard Small Group Walking Tour in London
Witness the world-famous ceremony while learning about the orgins of this iconic routine
What's included
Passionate, English-Speaking Guide
Changing of the Guard Ceremony
Maximum Group Size of 15
Guide Gratuity
Food and Drinks
Itinerary
Buckingham Palace
Once you meet your guide, you will be led to the first exclusive spot outside of the ubiquitous Buckingham palace to wait for the start of the ceremony.
Avoid The Crowds
You'll avoid the typical vantage points occupied by the crowds who aren't privy to the best spots to see the guards.
Historical Ceremony
Gain insightful historical context surrounding the pomp and circumstance of the ceremony and how it developed over time.
British Traditions
See the different landmarks that give color to the rich and deeply rooted British traditions as you move from different vantage points to keep up with the guard.
Welsh and Grenadier guard
Marvel at the splendor of the different military units that symbolically represent the diverse history of the once-independent nations of England, Scotland, and Wales and their continual unity under the crown.
The Queen Victoria Monument
See the beautiful gilded tribute to one of the most iconic monarchs of England's history.
Tour concludes with the end of the ceremony
After the grand finish of the ceremony, you are free to stick around to explore the amazing landmarks and architecture on your own.
For Reference Only. Itineraries are subject to change
Select participants and date
Start times are in the product’s local time
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!
Sun, 27 Sep 2026
Meeting and drop-off point
Important Details
Meet your local guide in front of the impressive Equestrian statue of Edward VII, and then get ready for one of the most quintessential British experiences! The Changing of the Guard is London’s most iconic public ceremony, and your expert guide is ready to show you the absolute best way to experience it! Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be moving quite quickly to keep up with the guards as they march along.
Rather than standing with an enormous crowd in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace, your guide will lead you to lesser-known spots where you can get as close as possible to all the action! As you follow along with the ceremony, your passionate guide will share intriguing tales about the origins of this historic spectacle, along with fascinating details about those legendary uniforms.
Changing of the Guard Walking Tour Description
Your 1.45-hour tour includes:
Expert guide
Changing of the Guard ceremony
Exclusive vantage points
Amazing photo opportunities
Historical and cultural explanation behind the Ceremony
Max 15 People
Get Ready for the Guards!
Get ready to immerse yourself in British tradition by taking part in one of England’s most iconic ceremonies! Meet your local guide and small group of fellow travelers in front of the Equestrian statue of Edward VII, and then get ready to follow along as the guards begin their famous march. In order to not miss any moment of the ceremony, be sure to arrive fifteen minutes early and wear your comfiest walking shoes— your guide will be moving pretty fast to keep up with the guards!
Experience the Best Viewpoints
While most tourists watch the famous ceremony from the forecourt of Buckingham Palace, your expert guide knows that this isn’t the best way! Rather than being stuck in a massive crowd and unable to really see much, you’ll be led to the best locations to fully take in the event! As the guards march along their route, your passionate guide will ensure that you get as close as possible to the action. Have your cameras ready, because you’ll be at the perfect vantage point for taking amazing photos!
Learn About the Changing of the Guard
As you marvel at the Changing of the Guard ceremony, your engaging guide will share the fascinating history behind this renowned spectacle. Learn about the different types of guards, the significance behind their characteristic uniforms, and the intriguing origins of this world-famous ceremony.
Once the tour ends, stick around! You’re free to stick around and continue exploring this historic area for as long as you’d like.
See what people are saying
4.96
141 Ratings
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Super informative
Mike W.
September 12, 2026
Alex was a fantastic guide. Very informative and knew exactly where to take us to see front row at every location. So very glad we took this tour
Five Stars for Darcy!
Steven G.
July 23, 2026
Darcy was awesome! He was knowledgeable, hilarious, and kept the whole group engaged from start to finish. He did a great job explaining what to expect, managing expectations, and making sure we got the best possible views of the Changing of the Guard instead of just standing in one crowded spot. He shared so many interesting facts along the way and made everything fun and entertaining. He also gave us an amazing lunch recommendation afterward that ended up being one of our favorite meals in London. If you’re thinking about seeing the Changing of the Guard, definitely book this tour. Thanks again, Darcy!
Elise
Elise C.
July 19, 2026
Our guide was fantastic! We saw all we wanted and was very informant!!
Changing of the Guard Walking Tour, London
Christina R.
May 20, 2026
This was a terrific tour! Our guide Nathan was very informative and spoke very clearly and loud enough to allow all attendees to hear. Furthermore he knew the exact spots to position our group along the various parade route stops to maximize our experience for the very best views and picture/video taking opportunities! Would highly recommend to anyone interested in this historical ceremony! Thank you Nathan!!
changing of the guard tour w/ tour guide Jo
Tamara J.
March 18, 2026
Jo was our guide-she was amazing and articulate and fun and had us well positioned at all times!
Crown Parade Experience
Nicholas K.
March 17, 2026
Energy around the palace felt wonderful with people arriving from many countries. Guards soon appeared once the band began playing. Chloe added many helpful comments while we watched which helped everyone understand the meaning behind the ceremony.
London Ritual
Kathleen J.
March 13, 2026
Morning outside Buckingham Palace felt lively as visitors gathered along the road waiting for the ceremony. Sound of drums slowly grew louder before the guards appeared in bright uniforms. Their strong formation and steady steps impressed everyone watching and created an exciting atmosphere.
Patrick M.
March 12, 2026
Rachel L.
March 10, 2026
Royal Palace Gathering
Ryan I.
March 10, 2026
Crowds slowly formed along the street while excitement continued to grow. Once the band arrived the whole area became quiet and focused. Guards marched proudly across the square and the bright uniforms looked wonderful against the palace background. Seeing the ceremony live created a strong memory.
Britain Ceremony
Cynthia H.
March 07, 2026
Morning crowds gathered along the street outside Buckingham Palace. Music soon filled the air and the guards marched proudly across the square. Bright uniforms and disciplined steps made the entire ceremony feel impressive.
Windsor Duty Change
Gary G.
March 05, 2026
Excitement built among the crowd while people waited along the street outside the palace. Music soon echoed through the area and the soldiers appeared marching proudly while taking over their duties. Watching the precise movements and traditions gave visitors a better understanding of the historic ceremony.
Hat Columns
Laura F.
March 03, 2026
Visitors waited patiently while the ceremony began near the palace gates. Soon soldiers wearing tall black hats marched proudly across the square. Their neat lines and steady rhythm created an impressive display for everyone watching.
Raymond K.
March 03, 2026
Palace Guard Gathering
Jeffrey E.
March 01, 2026
Morning crowds gathered near the palace gates waiting for the ceremony to begin. Music from the band soon echoed through the street and the guards marched proudly across the square creating an impressive display.
Royal Process
Sharon D.
February 27, 2026
Crowds waited along the road while excitement grew. Music soon echoed through the square and the guards appeared marching proudly. Their perfect timing and bright uniforms created a powerful sight.
Buckingham Gate Soldiers
Jason C.
February 25, 2026
Close to the palace gates, excitement built as music approached through the street. Soon the marching formation appeared wearing red coats and tall hats. Their movements stayed perfectly synchronized. Seeing the soldiers pass through the square while the band played created a powerful and memorable display.
Heritage March
Rebecca B.
February 23, 2026
Pilgrims gathered near Buckingham Palace while the band approached slowly. Music soon filled the area and the guards marched proudly across the square. Their discipline and steady rhythm impressed everyone watching and created a memorable scene.
Debra J.
February 23, 2026
Royal Guard Showcase
Edward A.
February 21, 2026
Visitors waited patiently while excitement slowly grew near Buckingham Palace. Sound of music soon filled the area and the guards appeared marching confidently. Watching the ceremony live felt like a classic London experience.
Monarch Ceremony
Stephanie Z.
February 19, 2026
People lined the street hoping for a good view of the event. Sound of drums soon approached through the road and the guards appeared in perfect order. Bright uniforms and careful movements created a striking scene that many visitors photographed.
Royal Band Arrival
Ronald Y.
February 17, 2026
Excited visitors lined the street hoping for a good view of the ceremony. Guards appeared soon after the music began playing. While guiding the group through the area Millie casually pointed out traditions that many tourists would normally miss.
London Pageantry
Deborah W.
February 15, 2026
Morning light over the palace created a beautiful setting while visitors gathered along the road. Music from the band echoed through the street before the guards appeared. Their strong formation and confident steps caught everyone’s attention and made the entire experience feel impressive.
Samuel I.
February 15, 2026
British Duty Parade
Timothy V.
February 13, 2026
Marching lines of soldiers appeared slowly while music echoed through the street. Their steady rhythm kept the formation perfectly aligned. People watching nearby followed every step carefully. Seeing such discipline and tradition together created an exciting atmosphere during the ceremony.
