Changing of the Guard Walking Tour with Local Guide
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience London’s most famous royal ceremony with a guide who shows you the best vantage points and explains every moment of the spectacle whilst avoiding huge crowds.
Starting at the Duke of York Column, engage with a trained actor guide who shares captivating stories and insights as you move between key locations like St James's Palace and Buckingham Palace. This tour ensures you see the Guards up close and learn about their history and uniform. This dynamic experience is perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike, offering a fun and informative afternoon in the heart of London.
On this tour you will:
- Witness one of Britain’s most spectacular royal traditions up close
- Stand just feet from the Guards in full ceremonial uniform
- March alongside the military bands and processions
- See multiple stages of the ceremony from the best vantage points
- Visit the exterior of St James's Palace, Wellington Barracks and Buckingham Palace
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Memorial
At the memorial to King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, you’ll hear the story of a reluctant king who led Britain through the Second World War, and the Queen who stood firmly by his side, becoming one of the nation’s most beloved figures.
St. James's Palace
Here you'll watch the Old Guard line up for inspection and hear the military band strike up! You’ll discover one of London’s oldest royal residences, built by Henry VIII, and hear how it once served as the official home of the monarch before Buckingham Palace took centre stage.
What‘s Included
A Local Guide
Bottled water
Public transportation
Options
Changing of the Guard Walking Tour with Local Guide
Reviews
16 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great day out
Loraine64,Apr 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a lovely day in London. Seeing Changing of the Guard. Will definitely recommend the tour.
Deffo recommend!
joellF9432ZS,Apr 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wicked tour! Loved learning about St James’s Palace and the guards + ABA 😉 Highly recommend
Fantastic tour, great guide!
W6481ADgeorgeh,Apr 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00So happy that I booked this tour, brought my mum who has always wanted to see the changing of the guard and this tour really exceeded expectations. It was great to be able to see the whole thing from multiple vantage points, we went to St James's Palace, Buckingham Palace and Wellington Barracks. We were right up close to the action and the guide was very knowledgeable which really made the tour. Would definitely recommend this tour to anybody.
Great day out
dougwestley567,Apr 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a lovely day seeing the changing of the guard. Enjoyed our day will definitely recommend.
This is the one to book!
dominikn674,Apr 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00100% recommend this tour, one of the highlights of our London trip! We had super friendly guide Lewis who made this really entertaining and it was just the best way to learn more about London, UK and the history. I m usually not the biggest fan of tours but I would do this one again. Thank you!
Amazing Guide - don't miss this tour!
RGS97,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Lewis did a fantastic job taking us around St James Palace, Wellington Barracks and Buckingham Palace to watch the changing of the guards from the best vantage points! He was informative, knew the history in great detail and answered lots of our questions. Having lived in London, I thought I knew all about the changing of the guard but I learnt many new facts thanks to Lewis. We had a good group size, the length of the tour was just about right. The best part of marching with the band along the Mall - it was such a good atmosphere and I'd highly recommend this tour for families, couples and kids!
Best spots for Changing of the Guard
tonyai328,Apr 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Knew all the best spots to see the changing of the guard! Learned lots about British History and was great to learn about the buildings around Buckingham Palace as well as itself!
Amazing!
ethamb2024,Apr 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing tour, Lewis is a great tour guide filled with loads of facts I never knew and I grew up in London. The scenery is amazing and it was an all round great experience
Brilliant fun!
ConorLaing,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent fun, Lewis is a brilliant guide!
Highlight of our trip!
issyi2019,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour with Lewis was exceptional — a real highlight of our time travelling through the UK. He brings a rare combination of deep knowledge and effortless charm, making the experience both engaging and memorable. Thank you again!
From £18.00
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