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Your Changing of the Guard tour ensures you don't miss a moment of the action. Standing in the best spots around London’s Royal Palaces, you'll capture incredible photos as the Royal Guard march to the stirring tunes of the military band.
Along the way your knowledgeable tour guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of this centuries-old ceremony, making sure you understand the nuances of what you’re witnessing. Subject to schedule your Changing of the Guard tour will also give you the opportunity to get great photos of the Royal Horseguards of the Household Cavalry.
Your Changing of the Guard tour also includes stops at the key ceremony and royal landmarks. You’ll discover the incredible history of Buckingham Palace and get up close to St James’s Palace and Clarence House, the official London residence of His Majesty King Charles III.
Immerse yourself in royal pageantry and enjoy the most comprehensive views of this traditional British ceremony.
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The British Army can alter the ceremony at any time. In bad weather, they may perform a 'Wet Change,' a shorter version of the Changing of the Guard without music, decided on the morning of the ceremony.
This tour does not go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace as you will miss most of the ceremony. This tour will give you the best views of the guards and ceremony around the many Royal Palaces.
On Sunday's this tour may see the 'Sunday Parade' - an adapted version of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
The tour is not suitable for wheelchairs, walking difficulties or prams/strollers/buggies.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Get up close for photos of the Royal Horseguards in the Household Cavalry
Guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
Get memorable photos at Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and Clarence House
Knowledgeable tour guide from an award-winning tour company
Gratuities (optional)
Entrance Tickets to the Royal Palaces and Landmarks
This tour does not go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace.
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard is a traditional ceremony showcasing the handover of duties between the King’s Guard. The ceremony features a precision display of marching, music, and military pageantry. Guards in iconic tunics and bearskin hats parade to live music. The event symbolizes British heritage and monarchy, blending discipline with centuries-old tradition.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch, is a symbol of the United Kingdom's heritage and royal tradition. Built in 1703 and expanded over centuries, it features 775 rooms, including the Throne Room and the opulent Ballroom. The iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony draws millions annually. Surrounded by lush gardens, the palace remains a working institution, hosting state events and providing a regal backdrop to national celebrations.
822 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Vincent T,
Aug 13, 2025
- Viator
Great tour. Well done. Your guide very knowledgeable and helpful. My kids enjoyed it. Great viewing location
Rachel H,
Aug 13, 2025
- Viator
Our family (including grandparents, parents and kids 11-3) loved this tour! We had amazing views for photos and learned relevant history and details in advance of the changing of the guard ceremony. Our tour guide Rachel was fantastic - presented material in an engaging way, helped take photos, and answered all questions thoroughly. I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect but I would highly recommend this tour to a friend. Everyone in our group was so glad we did it!
Amy K,
Aug 8, 2025
- Viator
This was a wonderful experience and well worth the money. We got to see up-close and experience far more than if we just showed up on our own. The information on the history and details was fantastic too!
Debra M,
Aug 6, 2025
- Viator
Excellent opportunity to get an overview of the Changing of the Guard Parade. Well worth the cost to get a bit of a tour and explanation of the ceremony. Don’t expect to be at Buckingham Palace, but you will have a good view of the parade from a couple different areas. Guides are friendly, and willing to answer questions. I would recommend this to first timers.
CYNTHIA W,
Aug 4, 2025
- Viator
This was a great tour. The guide placed us in the spots that would have the best views of the guards. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed it and got great photos.
Operated by See The Sights Tours