Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to London and want to see one of its most iconic traditions up close, this Changing of the Guard walking tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, we’ve looked into what it offers and how it might fit into your sightseeing plans. It’s a fairly compact experience—lasting around 105 minutes—that promises to give you a well-rounded look at the ceremonial event, alongside some of the key royal sights nearby.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on small-group intimacy and expert guiding, which often makes for a more personal and engaging experience. Plus, the fact that it covers several interesting stops before reaching Buckingham Palace adds context and depth. That said, it’s worth noting that the experience doesn’t include the full royal ceremony, especially if crowds are thick or if the ceremony gets canceled unexpectedly. This tour is best suited for visitors who want a guided, detailed look at this classic British tradition without the hassle of navigating alone.

One possible consideration? The tour doesn’t include transportation or food, so you’ll need to plan accordingly if you want to make a day of it. Still, if you’re after a knowledgeable guide, good views, and a manageable group size, this experience can be a worthwhile way to appreciate this quintessentially British spectacle.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures more personal attention and better interaction with your guide.
• Expert guidance helps you understand the history, regiments, and symbolism behind the ceremony.
• Multiple stops along the route provide additional context and sights, enriching the experience.
• Viewpoints are carefully chosen for close-up photos and better viewing, avoiding crowds at Buckingham Palace.
• Weather considerations are important—be prepared for all conditions since the ceremony goes ahead rain or shine.
• No hidden costs—the price covers the guided tour and sightseeing, but not food, drinks, or transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive look at the Changing of the Guard, with a focus on history, tradition, and the visual spectacle. It kicks off at the Equestrian statue of Edward VII in Waterloo Place and gradually makes its way through some of London’s most regal and historic sites.

What’s special about this approach is that you’re not just watching guards change duty at Buckingham Palace—you’re also learning about the different regiments involved, their uniforms, and the significance of various symbols like the bearskin hats and medals. Your guide will explain the origins of the ceremony, helping you understand why it’s such a treasured tradition.

The itinerary includes stops at The Mall, St James’s Palace, Clarence House, and St. James’s Park. These are not just sightseeing points—they’re part of a story that connects the monarchy, the history of London’s royal residences, and the military regiments. The walk through St. James’s Park, in particular, offers a breather amid the regal sights, with the opportunity to soak in some of London’s green spaces and people-watching.

Finally, you’ll arrive at Buckingham Palace for the main event—the Changing of the Guard. At this point, you’ll be at a vantage point selected to avoid the usual crowds and get some great photos. Your guide will narrate as the guards march in formation, perform their drill movements, and play their music. This isn’t just a visual experience but a storytelling session that makes the spectacle more meaningful.

The Highlights of the Experience

What makes this tour stand out are the insights offered by the guide. Unlike just watching the guards from a distance, you’ll learn what each movement and uniform detail means—an aspect many visitors miss when just viewing on their own. The guide’s commentary is a real plus; as one reviewer said, “Paul the guide was great,” highlighting the quality of the guidance.

You’ll also love the up-close views of the guards’ march and drill, which are often obscured in crowds. The route is planned to bring you as close as possible while still respecting crowd safety and security rules. If you’re into photography, this setup allows you to capture some fantastic shots without fighting throngs of travelers.

The music played by the guards—ranging from traditional marches to more modern tunes—is another highlight. The guide’s mention of “what the music will be today” hints at the variety, which can make each visit feel fresh, even if you’ve seen the ceremony before.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Starting Point at Waterloo Place
This is where you meet your guide, next to the statue of Edward VII on horseback. It’s a central, easily accessible spot, perfect for gathering the group and setting expectations.

Stop 2: The Mall
A brief guided walk along this iconic avenue introduces you to the route the guards take. It’s a good spot to observe the architecture and hear some background about its significance.

Stop 3: St James’s Palace
One of the oldest royal residences still in use, this stop offers a peek into royal life and history. Your guide will share stories and facts about its role and the royal family.

Stop 4: Clarence House
Another royal residence, recently notable as the residence of the King, Clarence House adds a layer of contemporary royal relevance to the tour.

Stop 5: St. James’s Park
A lovely scenic break, this park is home to pelicans and plenty of Londoners relaxing. It’s also a quieter spot for photos and a chance to discuss the surroundings.

Stop 6: Buckingham Palace
The grand finale, where you’ll see the guards in action. Instead of a distant view, you’ll be positioned for optimal photo opportunities, enjoying the ceremonial march, drumbeats, and music.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This experience provides a guided Changing of the Guard with an English-speaking expert. The focus is on education and sightseeing, not on providing transportation or meals. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing—London weather can be unpredictable, and the ceremony goes on rain or shine.

A practical note: luggage or large bags aren’t permitted, so travel light on the day. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation to the starting point accordingly.

One of the key benefits is that the tour lasts about an hour and 45 minutes, which is a manageable chunk of time for most travelers. You’re not committing to a lengthy tour, but enough to see a lot and learn a lot.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

Reviews give a useful flavor of what to expect. One reviewer praised the guide: “Paul the guide was great,” highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable, engaging guide in making the experience memorable.

However, not every experience is perfect. One traveler had a less positive experience, stating, “Bad I never found the tour,” which highlights the importance of arriving at the correct meeting point and being prepared. This reminds us that logistical details matter.

Most reviews focus on the stunning views and the informative guidance, making it clear that if you’re into history, ceremony, and good storytelling, you’ll likely enjoy this tour. The small-group format is a bonus, ensuring you’re not lost in a crowd and can ask questions freely.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys guided experiences, appreciates history and tradition, and wants close-up views of the guards at Buckingham Palace, this tour could be a good fit. It’s suitable for those who want a more personal, less rushed look at the ceremony, without the hassle of navigating alone.

However, if you’re very particular about getting the full ceremony or want the chance to see more elaborate displays, you might prefer to watch the event independently or opt for other options. Also, remember that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Changing of the Guard walking tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience one of London’s most famous traditions with the benefit of a knowledgeable guide. It’s a balanced experience, blending sightseeing, history, and the ceremonial spectacle into a manageable format.

For those who enjoy stories behind the sights and want to avoid the crowds at Buckingham Palace, this can be a smart choice. The route and guide-led approach mean you’ll walk away with not just photos but a richer understanding of why this event is such a cherished part of British culture.

If you’re looking for a relaxed but informative way to see the ceremonial side of London, this tour will likely hit the spot. Just remember to arrive early, dress for the weather, and enjoy the spectacle with an appreciative eye and ear for the stories your guide shares.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for those interested in history and ceremony. However, it isn’t specifically geared toward children, and some parts may be less engaging for very young kids.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, the tour doesn’t include transport. You’ll meet at Waterloo Place, so plan your route accordingly using public transit or walking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and clothing suitable for the weather. London weather can change quickly, so be prepared.

Will I see the full Changing of the Guard ceremony?
The tour is designed to bring you close to the guards as they march toward Buckingham Palace and perform their drills. If the ceremony is canceled due to weather or security, you might still see them marching but without the music.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 105 minutes, making it a good-sized chunk of your sightseeing day without being overly long.

Is the experience accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this if accessibility is a priority.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
At the Equestrian statue of Edward VII on Waterloo Place, near St. James’s. Look for the statue of a man on a horse and a sign that says “Urban Saunters.”

What is the group size?
It’s a small-group tour, which typically means fewer people, more interaction, and better chances to ask questions and get close-up views.

If you’re curious to see a quintessential British ceremony with some added insight and a personal touch, this tour could be just the ticket. It balances sight, story, and spectacle, making it a compelling option for your London visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: