Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace

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Overview

Available languages

English

1 hour 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

See British tradition come to life on this fully-guided Changing of the Guard walking tour that ensures you get the very best views of this spectacular ceremony!  Don’t make the same mistake that so many visitors often – and understandably – make, believing the prime vantage point from where to experience this time-honoured tradition is outside Buckingham Palace.

These spectators’ enthusiasm quickly turns to disappointment when they realise that they have waited for hours only to see the very end of this unique performance, their view often blocked by the throngs of people crowding around them. Instead, follow your guide on a dynamic journey that takes in the entire Changing of the Guard from beginning to end as they expertly navigate the crowds to take you to the best – and most photographable – viewpoints.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

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.

Please note weather is very changeable in London, please ensure you have rainproof clothing

Please note that the changing of the guard schedule may change and on different dates we will see either footguards or horseguards

On Sundays, a slightly different version of the ceremony takes place, known as the "Sunday Parade".

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Small Group of 20 people or less

Best vantage points and insights thanks with your guide

Headsets when appropriate

Expert, English-speaking tour guide

Gratuities

Entrance to Buckingham Palace

What To Expect

1

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 30 minutes • Admission Included
2

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.

Admission Not Applicable

Options

Walking Tour - English

Reviews

4.33

863 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

651
53
38
38
83
  • Changing of the Guards tour

    Anwar R,

    Sep 4, 2025

    - Viator

    4.00

    It was helpful to have a tour leader with good knowledge of history. The tour can be done without a guide but we found it added value to the tour

  • Changing of the Guards, Buckingham Palace.

    Andrew A,

    Sep 3, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    We had David as our guide, who was a walking wealth of knowledge. We were shown to prime positions for ample opportunity to see all the goings on for the changing of the guards. We had a number of people in our group with varying ages and physical abilities, and David did his best to make sure everyone was looked after and able to make the most of their experience.

  • Rained out!

    Julia W,

    Aug 28, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    It rained the morning of our event so the formal changing of the guard outdoor procession was canceled but the tour guide managed to save the day! Sophie was great and so informative! One of the best tour guides ever!

  • A visit in French...

    Chantal B,

    Aug 24, 2025

    - Viator

    4.00

    A visit in French would be appreciated. Very good English guide. A little too fast for people of a certain age though. Nouas liked it.

  • Must try.. .. awesome to...

    JESSICA S,

    Aug 24, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Must try.. .. awesome to see it, host was really good with a lot of information, it gets very crowded

From £14.00

4.33
863 reviews