Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace

If you’re headed to London and want to catch one of the city’s most famous traditions, the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is often at the top of the list. This tour offers a chance to see the ceremony up close, guided by someone who can help you understand what’s happening and where best to stand. We’ve looked into this experience to give you an honest rundown of what it’s really like—no fluff, just the facts.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guides really know their stuff, often sharing behind-the-scenes insights most visitors wouldn’t hear otherwise. Second, the location choices and vantage points are carefully selected to give you the best views, so you don’t have to fight crowds or scramble for a decent spot. The main consideration? The changing of the guard isn’t guaranteed every day, and the experience heavily depends on weather and schedule changes, which can be a bit frustrating if you’re relying on a specific day or time.

This tour would suit anyone interested in British traditions, royal ceremonies, or simply looking for an easier way to view the spectacle without the hassle of waiting in a crowd. If you’re short on time but want to maximize your chances of seeing the guards and hearing interesting stories, this guided approach could be just right. Just keep in mind that it’s not a guarantee you’ll see the full show every time—weather and scheduling can impact what’s visible.

Key Points

• Expert Guides Make a Difference: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insider stories and help you get the best views.
• Prime Vantage Points: Carefully selected spots ensure you catch the ceremony clearly, avoiding the usual crowds.
• Weather and Schedule Matter: The changing of the guard is subject to date, weather, and official schedules, which can lead to disappointments.
• Value for Money: At around $19, this tour offers a structured, informative experience that’s generally considered good value.
• Small Group Experience: With groups capped at 20, you get more personal attention and less jostling.
• Timing and Duration: Expect about 1 hour 30 minutes, starting early in the day, which is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule.

What to Expect from the Tour

Meeting and Introduction

Your journey starts at the Duke of York Column in St. James’s, a central spot easy to reach via public transport. Here, your guide will brief you on what’s to come, hand you a headset for clear audio, and share some background on the Changing of the Guard tradition. This initial talk helps set expectations, especially since many travelers mistakenly think they’ll see the ceremony from a certain position—but the guide’s insights will help you understand what’s worth watching and where to stand.

Strategic Viewing Spots

Many visitors try to watch the ceremony from the most crowded areas—often outside Buckingham Palace itself—which can be chaotic and less enjoyable. This tour’s strength lies in its handpicked vantage points. Your guide will lead you to the best spots, where you’ll get a clear view of the guards and horses in action, all while listening to commentary that explains each movement and significance.

Watching the Ceremony

The highlight is, of course, witnessing the Changing of the Guard. Expect to see the household cavalry in their shiny red and black uniforms, riding and controlling their horses with precision. The foot guards, with their iconic bearskin hats, also play a key role. As one review puts it, “Mary, our tour guide, knew exactly where to stand for best viewing and was very knowledgable. She kept us moving at an appropriate pace.” This kind of tailored guidance makes a big difference, especially in the busy spring and summer months when crowds swell.

Photographic Opportunities

Photography is a big part of the appeal. Many reviews mention capturing great shots of the guards, horses, and even the royal cars passing by. Guided tours help you position yourself for better photos, so you’re not just watching but also coming away with memorable images.

Post-Ceremony and End Point

The tour wraps up outside Buckingham Palace, usually after about an hour and a half. While the ceremony might be canceled due to weather or scheduling, your guide will ensure you still get a sense of the tradition—sometimes seeing the guards march without the usual music or parade. Keep in mind that cancellation due to weather isn’t always known before 11 am, so it’s good to be flexible.

The Experience and Its Pros and Cons

Advantages

• Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviews highlight guides like Flora, Natalie, and Aaron as personable, enthusiastic, and full of interesting tidbits. They don’t just tell you what’s happening—they share stories that make the ceremony come alive.
• Better Viewing: The carefully selected spots help you avoid the worst crowds and get a clear, unobstructed view. One reviewer pointed out, “We got a premium spot to watch the guards start their march,” which can be hard to find on your own.
• Efficient Use of Time: With a set schedule and small groups, you spend your morning more productively, seeing the highlights without wandering aimlessly.
• Cost-Effective: At just over $19, the tour offers good value, especially considering the insights and the guided approach.

Disadvantages

• Inconsistent Sightings: As some reviews point out, the ceremony isn’t guaranteed every day, and weather can interfere. You might arrive eager to see the guards and end up only watching a march or a partial display.
• Weather Dependency: Rain and bad weather lead to cancellations or less impressive experiences. The weather in London can be unpredictable, so be prepared.
• Limited Control: You’re relying on the guide’s expertise and schedule. If the timing doesn’t align with the actual changing of the guard, you might feel a bit let down.
• No Entrance to Buckingham Palace: This is purely a viewing experience; if you want to explore the palace itself, that’s a different tour.

Real User Insights

A few reviews stand out for their honesty. For example, one traveler noted, “You do not see the changing of the guard. We went to watch them march out of St James and to the road BEHIND the memorial but the guards marched on to the front of Buckingham to change!” This highlights the importance of understanding the schedule and viewing spots. Conversely, others were thrilled, sharing stories of seeing King Charles or Prince William—things that make the experience memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in a guided, well-organized way to witness the Changing of the Guard without the hassle of fighting crowds or guessing the best spot, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want some background stories and insider tips. However, if you’re visiting during a day when the ceremony is canceled or the weather is poor, don’t count on seeing the guards in action.

This tour is also ideal for travelers who value small-group experiences, personalized attention, and the chance to take great photos. It’s not necessarily for those wanting to explore Buckingham Palace itself, but for those eager to witness a quintessentially British spectacle with some context and guidance.

Final Thoughts

The Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace offers a practical, engaging way to enjoy this iconic ceremony. The guides’ expertise and strategic vantage points significantly improve the experience over simply waiting in crowded areas. While weather and scheduling can impact what you see, the tour still provides a worthwhile glimpse into this royal tradition, especially for first-timers or those short on time.

At around $19, it’s a reasonable expense for a structured, informative experience that makes the spectacle more accessible and memorable. If you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just someone eager to see the guards and hear some stories, this tour could be a smart addition to your London itinerary.

For the best results, arrive early, keep flexible with the schedule, and enjoy the chance to learn about Britain’s royal customs from a knowledgeable guide.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour is mainly about the ceremony and sightseeing, children who are interested in royal traditions and can handle walking and standing for about 1.5 hours should enjoy it. The tour doesn’t include palace entry, so it’s more about observation than inside exploration.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard on my own instead of this tour?
Yes, you can. Many visitors watch the ceremony outside Buckingham Palace for free. However, the tour offers strategic vantage points, commentary, and a smaller group setting, making it easier to enjoy the event without the crowds.

What happens if the ceremony is canceled due to weather?
If canceled due to bad weather, which isn’t usually known before 11 am, you might see a march without music or parade. The tour still offers the opportunity to see part of the changing process and learn about the tradition.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, starting early in the day, which is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule.

What’s included in the price?
You get an expert, English-speaking guide, headsets for clear communication, a small group (max 20 people), and the best vantage points. Entrance to Buckingham Palace is not included.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, it requires moderate walking and standing, but nothing overly strenuous.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Duke of York Column in St. James’s and ends outside Buckingham Palace, conveniently located for other sightseeing.

What should I wear or bring?
London weather can change quickly—bring rainproof clothing and comfortable shoes. A camera is recommended for photos.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
It’s better to book about 40 days in advance on average, but last-minute availability depends on the day and demand.

In the end, if you’re after a well-guided, insightful, and comfortable way to witness one of London’s most iconic ceremonies, this tour hits many of the right notes. Keep expectations realistic, stay flexible, and you’re likely to come away with some great memories—just don’t forget your raincoat!