Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace

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

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

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

4.34

910 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

688

Excellent Experience.
Edward I,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Well worth doing, really enjoyable. A small group. Paul the guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. Took us us to really good viewpoints.
Ellen was a great guide,...
Meegan W,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Ellen was a great guide, her knowledge was excellent and our view vantage points were terrific, thoroughly enjoyed.
Changing of the Guards Walk
John K,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Great easy walk along the guards route from St James Palace to Buckingham Palace. Our guide, Cole, gave a great explanation of the process and traditions, as well as anecdotal stories along the way delivered in his delightful Cockney accent !
We saw the king!
Lana B,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Best guide ever! We even SAW King Charles!!! Best experience as an American tourist. Very informative and got an up close view at one of the most iconic traditions of England.
This was a great...
Randy C,
Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
This was a great experience. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and personable. The additional details about tour was very informative.
A Great Walking Tour
Luann M,
Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Georgie was great with lots of inside info and history making the experience fun and interesting! The spots on the walk were perfect for views and photos too!
Memorable Tour
LindaLeonti R,
Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Michael is entertaining, very knowledgeable and funny. He made the experience memorable. He was our guide for 2 different excursions.
Great experience
LaTashia B,
Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
This was a great tour! Our tour guide showed us great views of the ceremony. This is a once in a lifetime experience.
Our guide was great, he...
Ulises C,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Our guide was great, he made sure we got to see all the parts of the changing of the guards from four different places. He was very informative and funny as well.
Great tour
alwright2002,
Oct 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Philip was great! He was a wealth of knowledge and gave us some fun facts. He was thorough and explained everything that was happening in full detail.