Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace Experience
Description
This is the highest-rated Changing of the Guard walking tour on Viator and Tripadvisor. Led by a historian and designed with a former Guardsman, this tour gives you the historical context, insider knowledge and the best viewing spots for the capital’s most iconic ceremony. Not only that, you'll get to walk alongside the Guards and ceremonial band as they march down The Mall—yes, it is as exciting as it sounds. You'll see Buckingham Palace, of course, but you'll also visit St James's Palace and Clarence House, discovering how these royal residences fit into this world-famous ceremony. If we're lucky—it does happen—you might even catch a glimpse of the King or Queen. Just as importantly, there'll be plenty of fun and laughter along the way. At the end of the tour, as the crowds begin to disperse, you can either go to the gates of Buckingham Palace for some fantastic photo opportunities or walk back to Trafalgar Square with your guide and enjoy some bonus sightseeing along the way.
Tour Options
Itinerary
We begin in Trafalgar Square, the historic heart of London. Not only is it easy to find, it also has a direct link to the origins of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. While you're here, we'll show you the spot that marks the very centre of London. You'll also discover why Lord Horatio Nelson is one of Britain's greatest heroes, what we did with all the cannons captured from the defeated French, and why it might be worth patting the paw of one of the famous lion statues.
This palace rivals Buckingham Palace and is a must-see in its own right. It’s also where the Guards come off duty, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes perspective of the ceremony. One of London’s most historic sites, it’s steeped in centuries of history, scandal and intrigue. Not every tour includes it — but we most definitely do.
One of the highlights of the tour is marching alongside the King's Guards and their ceremonial band as they make their way down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace. Few experiences bring you closer to the spectacle. You'll hear the military music, watch the precision drill at close quarters, and enjoy views that most visitors never even realise are possible.
This immense Georgian barracks is where the Changing of the Guard both begins and ends, and we will be here to see the new Guard come on duty.
Your Changing of the Guard experience concludes outside Clarence House, the home of the King and Queen - which is just a couple of minutes away from Buckingham Palace. It will also be a final opportunity to see the Guards and the ceremonial band, and we are likely to see the Horse Guards as well. From here, it’s a short walk to Green Park or St James’s Park stations, or around 15 minutes on foot to Trafalgar Square or Parliament Square.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for those using a motorized cart.
Reviews(724)
The Changing of the Guard tour was so worth it! Our guide Robin shared some really interesting stories and sights along the walk, with the added bonus of getting us in the right spot at the right time. Would highly recommend!
Our guide was fantastic. So funny and knowledgeable. Enjoyed his company. He made sure we had great viewing points for various parts of the changing of the garden ceremony..
Robin was very funny and knowledgeable, and made sure we had a great view of everything!
This was a great tour! Our tour guide was amazing!
The choice of our tour guide makes this special experience, special. His name slips my memory, but he was an English history teacher. And blessed with a delightful sense of humor.
Fantastic experience, every euro spent was more than well spent; a guide like Robin made the experience exciting from every point of view.
Robin was absolutely amazing! He kept us entertained the entire time! He had so many personal stories and background notes. I highly recommend this tour- it’s a must do. You won’t find a better guide!!
Robin provided an exceptional 5-star experience. His light humor, friendliness, and historical expertise was outstanding. He expertly weaved us through the crowds and positioned us in fabulous spots to see all the best of the changing of the guard. I found his historical anecdotes to as charming as they were informative. It’s clear he loves what he does. I actually felt bad for other tour groups (who I am sure were well-qualified) as we walked past thinking we had the very best of the best guides. He even invited any from the group to sneak a peek of the Banksy installation after he had provided our tour. He still shared background details you just can’t get or ever know without his knowledge. I wouldn’t hesitate to take one of his tours and would recommend him to anyone contemplating a tour.
Excellent tour with the wonderful Robin. He made learning history fun while taking us to the best locations for the changing of the guards.
Our favorite stop on our London trip so far. Robin is hilarious, knowledgeable, and such a blast. His facts and stories are highly entertaining. He even took us on a bonus stop AFTER the tour to see the Banksy totally for free. I would recommend this experience to everyone who wants to visit London!
