London: Royalty Walking Tour with Changing of The Guard

If you’re visiting London and want to get up close with the city’s royal heritage, this Royalty Walking Tour with Changing of the Guard could be just what you’re after. Offering a solid mix of sightseeing, history, and a front-row view of the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to see the core of British monarchy traditions without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What really caught our eye—and what might appeal to you—is the small group atmosphere and the knowledgeable guides. Many reviews rave about how friendly, funny, and well-informed the guides are, making the experience both engaging and educational. Also, the chance to see Buckingham Palace and the surrounding royal sights in just a few hours is pretty appealing, especially if your time in London is limited.

However, a few things are worth keeping in mind. First, the Changing of the Guard ceremony is scheduled only on specific days (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun at 10 am). If your visit doesn’t align with these days, you might miss that spectacle or find the tour slightly different. Also, since this is a walking tour, comfortable shoes and weather preparedness are a must—London’s weather can be unpredictable, and there’s a fair amount of strolling involved.

This tour seems well-suited for those who enjoy historical sights, want a guided experience to enrich their visit, and appreciate a good value for their money. It’s not a luxury private experience, but for the price, it packs a lot into three hours.

Key Points

• Includes the Changing of the Guard (on specific days)
• Small Group Setting enhances personal attention and interaction
• Knowledgeable Guides provide engaging and informative commentary
• Major London Sights like Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and Westminster Abbey
• Duration is manageable at around 3 hours, ideal for a sightseeing overview
• Price offers good value considering the sights covered and guide expertise

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Meet-Up

You’ll meet at Green Park Underground station (or The Ritz London, depending on your chosen option). This start location puts you right in the heart of London’s royal park area, making the beginning of your walk both scenic and convenient. From here, your guide will lead you through Green Park, setting the tone for a relaxed yet informative morning.

This initial walk through Green Park is a nice touch, as it’s one of London’s three Royal Parks, providing a peaceful introduction before hitting the busy sights. Plus, meeting at a central location makes it easy to find your way and join the group without fuss.

Watching the Changing of the Guard

The highlight for many is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. We loved how guides find the perfect spot to watch this centuries-old ceremony, which is an absolute must-see for visitors wanting to witness British pageantry. The guards in their traditional bearskin hats and bright red tunics look imposing, and the synchronized marching can be quite a spectacle.

Keep in mind, the ceremony only happens on certain days and times. If you’re on the 10 am tour, you’ll see the guard change, but it’s worth double-checking the schedule as it’s managed by the British Army and subject to weather cancellations or changes (like during the London Half-Marathon, as some reviews noted).

Many reviews praise guides like Christopher, who is described as “funny and very helpful,” and Benedict, who keeps the storytelling lively and historically rich. They help turn a simple spectacle into a memorable experience by sharing fun facts and insider tips.

Walking Along The Mall

After the guard change, you’ll stroll down The Mall, the grand red-colored avenue lined with royal parks and gardens. It’s a main artery for national celebrations and royal processions, giving you a sense of the scale and pomp of royal events. Passing Clarence House and St. James Palace, your guide will sprinkle in stories about royal residences and their significance.

Walking along The Mall gives you a real feel for London’s royal heartbeat, and you can expect plenty of photo opportunities. Many guests appreciated the relaxed pace, which allows for pictures and questions along the way.

Exploring Westminster and Parliament Square

Your route continues through Westminster, with stops at key landmarks like Horse Guards Parade, where you can often see mounted guards and possibly more ceremonial activity. Then, there’s a visit to 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence, which is more of a photo stop because access inside is restricted.

Next, you’ll arrive at Parliament Square, where your guide’s commentary can really shine—covering the history of the political hub, the statues of famous figures, and the buildings that symbolize British governance. The 40-minute walk here is packed with interesting facts, and many reviewers mention how engaging the guides are, making history feel relatable.

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Westminster Abbey and Final Stop

The last major stop is Westminster Abbey, a church packed with royal history, coronations, and memorials. While you won’t go inside on this tour, your guide will highlight its significance and point out its exterior features. It’s a good photo opportunity and a chance to connect what you’ve seen with the stories of kings, queens, and British tradition.

The tour wraps up at The Ritz London, giving you a chance to explore the surrounding area further or continue your day with a bit of luxury shopping or sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a local guide, the small group setting, and the Changing of the Guard stop. It’s straightforward and convenient, especially since it’s a guided experience—no need to worry about navigating London’s busy streets on your own.

However, it doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, and food or drinks aren’t part of the package. If you want a full day of sightseeing, consider grabbing breakfast before or planning a nice lunch afterward.

The Price and Value

At around $33.67 per person, this tour offers decent value for a three-hour walk through central London’s most iconic sights. Given the number of stops, the knowledge of the guides, and the included guard ceremony, many guests feel it’s worth the cost. As one reviewer said, “It was worth 3 hours of walk,” especially with the engaging commentary and scenic spots.

Some reviews mentioned that the tour might feel a bit rushed if you’re aiming for a more leisurely pace. Still, most appreciated the balance between walking and stopping, with many noting the guides’ ability to keep it fun and informative.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs. Recommendations include wearing comfortable shoes, bringing weather-appropriate clothing, and packing essentials like water, sunscreen, and an umbrella—London’s weather can change quickly, and comfort is key when walking for hours.

Since large bags aren’t allowed, plan to carry only essentials. Also, be aware the schedule for the Changing of the Guard can change due to weather or events, so check ahead if that’s a major reason for your visit.

This walking tour appeals most to those with a keen interest in royal London, history lovers, and travelers who want a guided overview without the complexity of self-planning. It’s well-suited for anyone comfortable with walking and eager to see major landmarks in a structured, friendly environment.

If you’re traveling with children or prefer a more relaxed pace, this could still work—many reviews mention guides’ engaging style, which keeps kids interested. But if you’re after a private or more in-depth exploration inside specific sites, you might want to look elsewhere.

In short, it’s a solid choice for first-time visitors who want to soak up London’s royal atmosphere efficiently and enjoyably, especially if you appreciate a good guide and lively storytelling.

Does the tour include inside visits to Buckingham Palace?
No, it only includes a photo stop and outside viewing of Buckingham Palace. Inside tours require separate tickets.

Is the Changing of the Guard included?
Yes, but only on specific days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) at 10 am. The schedule is weather-dependent and managed by the British Army.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable way to see several key sights without overextending your day.

Are there options for private groups?
Yes, private groups are available, which can provide a more personalized experience.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes back at The Ritz London, allowing for easy continuation of your day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, an umbrella, and your camera.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they’re not included. You’ll need to bring your own or plan to stop for refreshments afterward.

What’s the price?
It’s approximately $33.67 per person, which is quite reasonable given the sights and guide expertise.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging introduction to London’s royal sights, this Royalty Walking Tour offers a good mix of history, spectacle, and scenic walking. The guides consistently receive high praise for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience more than just a sightseeing checkmark.

It’s best suited for visitors who want a structured overview and don’t mind walking in London’s sometimes unpredictable weather. Despite a few limitations—like the schedule for the Changing of the Guard—most guests find it worthwhile, especially considering the price.

For anyone eager to combine history, royal pomp, and a bit of London’s grandeur without breaking the bank, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared for the weather, wear comfy shoes, and enjoy the stories and sights along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: