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(735)
Robin was a fantastic guide and made the experience one we will not forget. The viewing spots he had for us and extra information was great. I would book any tour with Robin.
Excellent guide who was very knowledgeable about the history of every stop. We had excellent views of the guards. In fact, we were able to go to several areas to see the guards and bands as the morning progressed.
Robin was exceptional! Fun, funny, informative and gave us the feeling that everything out our tour was exclusive for us. He was incredible!
Robin, our guide, was funny, personable, knowledgeable and so kind. This was a great tour. Highly recommend this.
Great experience. Robin was great.
This tour was amazing, Robin was extremely knowledgeable, very funny and the tour was well planned. We had a great time and would highly recommend this tour to anyone. Seeing all the other tours going in at the same time we would have felt disappointed to book with anyone else. We’ve since booked his Rock n Roll tour of Soho for today. 🤟
Robin is simply brilliant! Entertaining and engaging, knows all the tricks to see the changing of the guard from multiple different locations. I would highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting.!!
Do not miss this! Hopefully you have Robin as your guide…if not, beg for him! Also, go on a Sunday…you will thank me!!
Amazing !! Friendly !!!! Amazing knowledge !!!
Robin was the most amazing tour guide we have ever had, and we have been on many tours through our travels.
