Changing of the Guard Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
England is known for fish and chips, four seasons in a day, warm ale, history in spades and of course, a deeply ingrained age-old love for pomp and ceremony. Join us as we serve a slice of world-famous ceremonial action with this small-group Changing of the Guards experience.
There is so much more to this extravagant shift change than meets the eye though- with your expert guide to lead the way, you’ll soon know your Welsh from your Grenadier guard, understand what the deal is with those fuzzy bearskin hats, hear the astounding origins of this dazzling spectacle and truly get a handle on the significance of every colour, button, mascot, symbol and movement in this most British of traditions.
From the best possible viewing point, your small group will join the guards on their journey towards Buckingham Palace as you march to the beat of their drums... but what will the music be today?
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
We tend to move pretty fast to keep up with the guards, so please wear comfortable shoes and always carry water.
We will not stand at the forecourt of Buckingham Palace as, due to crowds, you see very little and the experience would be ten times less fun. We want to get you as close as possible with the opportunity to take some amazing snapshots.
It is at the discretion of the British Army to change or cancel the Ceremony. The announcement will not be made until after 10.30am so come rain or shine, the Urban Saunters Changing of the Guard experience will go ahead. If the full ceremony is cancelled, there will still be the chance to see the guards marching, just without the music.
No videoing of the guide unless they have given permission
Ceremony can be altered at the discretion of the British Army, or occasionally due to rain
There are no toilet or refreshment breaks on this tour
Tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Sundays – From April 2025, the Army is trying out a slightly different version of the usual ceremony on Sundays. It still involves the same number of guard movements and the same locations, but it’s now being called a “Parade” instead of a “Change.” There’s no word yet on how long this trial will last
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Your experience begins at the Equestrian statue of Edward VII on Waterloo Place, where you’ll meet your expert guide before heading to enjoy the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Memorial
Visit the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Memorials and hear the story of the royal couple who inspired the nation during World War II.
What‘s Included
Guided Changing of the Guard experience
English Speaking local expert guide
Gratuities
Food & drink
Hotel pick-up & drop-off
Options
Changing of the Guard Tour
Small Group Tour - English: Maximum 20 participants in your group
with Buckingham Palace ticket
Upgrade your experience: with entry tickets to Buckingham Palace during its summer opening.
Reviews
814 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing Experience
Sandrine M,Apr 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We thought we would see one part of the Changing of the Guard yet we were pleasantly surprised that we were able to experience each part of the ceremony along with insight in England history. Our guide, Richard Cross was amazing and ensured we were in the right place at the right time to get the best views. I highly recommend this tour and if you’re fortunate enough to have Richard, you will be delighted! Best tour we’ve had thus far with Viator.
A Sunny Sunday in London
i70obgyn,Apr 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We took the tour on Sunday and were able to see a parading of the guards, horses, and band as well as an overview of the royal park and castles/royal residences near Buckingham Palace. Tour guide Paul is a veteran with a great sense of humor and led a well-paced and thought out tour. So, we were quite pleased with many good video and photo ops along the way. This tour is highly recommended.
Change of Guard with Alex B
arturh809,Apr 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolute amazing experience, Alex B did an amazing job in helping capturing the best spots and with a little history to go with it Amazing, recommend 100%
Nathan is the real attraction
chrisg949,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Nathan was outstanding - incredibly knowledgeable, great energy, and had us positioned perfectly at every key spot so we never struggled for a view. His timing was impeccable and he clearly knows the routine down to the minute. Every bit of history and context he shared made the whole experience so much richer. The changing of the guard itself is fine - it's worth seeing - but honestly Nathan was the highlight. His commentary and expertise elevated the whole thing well beyond just watching soldiers march around. Book this tour and specifically request Nathan if you can. He turns a good experience into a great one.
Great Tour
sebastianwX4121LI,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jo is an excellent guide, she took us to all the front row spots where we avoided the crowds. She has excellent knowledge of the guards and some of the low downs as well. Keep it up!!!
Amazing!!!
H8741LQjoannec,Apr 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was fantastic and we give all of the credit to our tour guide Nathan. He is incredibly knowledgeable, interesting and extremely amusing to boot! Book this great London tour!
Making family memories 2026
Charlene F,Apr 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Jo was the best tour guide yet. She was very informative and made the history very relatable and fun. This was truly the best.
Natalie - Highly Recommend
G4023SHsarahr,Apr 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Natalie was amazing! Knew exactly where to place us for theeeeee best videos and pics of the changing of the guards.
Fantastic changing of the guards experience
merediths842,Apr 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jeremy provided us with an amazing experience. It was the perfect amount of time to see the changing of the guards and we had a much better understanding of what we were seeing with him as our guide.
Great tour
Sightsee595307,Apr 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome experience and great guide
From £15.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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