Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London

5.0 (5 reviews) 2 h 45 min Free cancellation

out of 5

5 reviews

5.0

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience London’s most iconic royal tradition with an award-winning Changing of the Guard tour. Get exclusive views of the ceremony from prime vantage points, see the guards and horses up close, and enjoy behind-the-scenes insights you won’t get on a standard tour. Guided by experts, you’ll explore historic landmarks like Wellington Barracks, St James’s Palace, and Horse Guards Parade while learning about centuries of British pageantry and royal history. Avoid the crowds and capture unforgettable photo opportunities at Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, and other key sites. This tour is designed to give you a unique, immersive, and memorable royal London experience from start to finish.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours
Maximum group size of 20 for a personalized experience
Personalised headsets for each guest
Meet at Diana Fountain at Green Park
Not wheelchair accessible; suitable for all ages with moderate mobility

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At a glance

Duration: 2 h 45 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 20 people
People per booking: 1–8
Guide: English
Operated by: London Strides

Ages: Infants (0–4 years) · Children (5–17 years) · Adults (18–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Get up close for photos of the Royal Horse guards of the Household Cavalry
Included: Guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
Included: Expert tour guide from an award-winning company
Included: Capture memorable photos at Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace and Clarence House
Included: Our exclusive tour is the only one with personal headsets—hear every word, never miss a thing!

Not included

Not included: Gratuities (optional)
Not included: Entrance tickets to Buckingham Palace
Not included: Tour does not go to Buckingham Palace’s front gates

Itinerary

Buckingham Palace

20 min

Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and the official London residence of the British monarch. With its grand façade, beautiful surroundings, and strong connection to the Royal Family, the palace plays an important role in the UK’s royal traditions. It also hosts official ceremonies, receptions, and major national occasions.
Changing of the Guard

45 min

The Changing of the Guard is a celebrated British tradition, marking the formal handover of duties between the King’s Guard. The ceremony combines military precision, marching, music, and impressive pageantry, with guards in their iconic tunics and bearskin hats. It offers a memorable glimpse into Britain’s royal heritage and centuries-old military traditions.
Wellington Barracks

20 min

Visit Wellington Barracks, the historic headquarters of the Foot Guards, where you’ll see the new guards preparing to march to Buckingham Palace. Watch as the soldiers assemble in full uniform, accompanied by a regimental band. This behind-the-scenes moment offers a closer look at the precision and discipline behind the Changing of the Guard ceremony. A unique chance to experience royal tradition before the parade begins.
St. James's Palace

10 min

St James’s Palace in London is a historic royal landmark with centuries of royal heritage. Commissioned by Henry VIII in the 16th century, the palace has played an important role in British royal history and remains closely connected to the Royal Family. Its distinctive red-brick exterior and historic setting make it a fascinating stop while exploring London’s royal landmarks.
Clarence House

15 min

Clarence House in London is a well-known royal residence situated beside St James’s Palace. With its elegant interiors and long-standing connection to the British Royal Family, the house has been home to several generations of royals. Today, it continues to be associated with royal engagements, official occasions, and London’s rich royal heritage.
Stop 6

5 min

From there, we’ll stroll down The Mall, London’s grand ceremonial boulevard, towards St James’s Palace. Here you’ll watch the palace guards form up and march in striking procession as they make their way towards Buckingham Palace — a truly memorable moment in the Changing of the Guard tradition.
Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall

20 min

Horse Guards Parade in London is a spectacular historic landmark and a fantastic photo opportunity during your royal London tour. Visitors can admire the impressive mounted guards and, when permitted, capture memorable photographs with the horses. It’s a great place to experience London’s military tradition and royal heritage up close.
St. James's Park

15 min

St James’s Park is one of London’s most beautiful Royal Parks, located close to Buckingham Palace and surrounded by some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy a relaxing walk through its landscaped gardens, picturesque lake, and peaceful green spaces while taking in views of the palace and nearby royal attractions. It’s a perfect place to experience the charm and history of central London.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meet your guide at the Diana Fountain, just outside the Green Park-facing exit of Green Park Station (Piccadilly, Jubilee & Victoria lines). Arrive by 9:45 am. Look for your guide with a placard and white-and-green umbrella. Tour starts promptly at 9:55

End point

The tour concludes at Horse Guards Parade. Your guide will share helpful tips on nearby attractions to explore, including Westminster Abbey, Parliament Square, a River Thames cruise, and the Tower of London, so you can continue discovering London at your own pace.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The tour begins at 9:45am, with a recommended reporting time of 9:35am. If you arrive late, the guide will meet you at the next stop along the route, joining you with the group already in progress.
Only Guard Change tour with personal headsets so that you have a great experience