Available languages
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.
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".
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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
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.
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.
887 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Dawn W,
Oct 1, 2025
- Viator
Great time...David made sure that we had a great spot to be able to see and he also had great things to tell us about what was happening and what to expect
Susan H,
Sep 29, 2025
- Viator
Our guide, Nathan, was disorganized and failed to provide good information or a vantage point that was any better than what we could have obtained on our own. Our group was one of the last of MANY others to head toward the area where we could see the procession. Nathan was literally running to get us there. When he spoke, his back was to much of the group, and then we lost him in the fray. It was a waste. We could have gone on our own and had a better experience.
Gabrielle A,
Sep 29, 2025
- Viator
Fantastic tour! Our guide was very knowledgeable and took us to the best vantage points to see the Changing of the Guard.
Linda R,
Sep 27, 2025
- Viator
We would have never understood all that was going on had we tried to go on our own. Our guide, Katrina, explained music, uniforms, and other landmarks along the way. We were able to avoid crowds. Her explanation of historical events was so very interesting.
Louise C,
Sep 25, 2025
- Viator
Fast paced at times, but it needs to be to get the best vantage points, which we did. Our Guide was humorous and very knowledgable.
Operated by City Wonders UK