Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour

If you’re planning a trip to London and want to see the iconic Buckingham Palace, this tour might be on your radar. It combines the classic spectacle of the Changing of the Guard with a visit to the palace’s State Rooms, which are only open for a couple of months each year. While many love the experience, it’s not without its quirks—and knowing what to expect can make the difference in how much you enjoy it.

We’ve looked into reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what this tour offers. Two things we really like? The guided commentary during the Guard ceremony and the opportunity to explore the Palace’s opulent interiors with an audio guide. One thing to bear in mind? The schedule is weather-dependent, and the palace visit may be a self-guided experience, which some find less engaging. Still, it’s best suited for those who want a reasonably priced, well-rounded look at London’s royal heart.

Key Points

• Includes the famous Changing of the Guard with expert guide commentary, giving you insight into British traditions.
• Access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms for a self-guided audio tour, showcasing stunning art, furniture, and chandeliers.
• A convenient mix of outdoor sights, like St. James’s Park, and indoor palace exploration.
• Limited availability—the palace is only open to visitors for about two months a year.
• Weather can impact the schedule, sometimes replacing the Guard ceremony with a walking tour.
• Group size is capped at 30, making for a more intimate experience.

The Itinerary – What You Can Expect

Starting Point and St. James’s Park

The tour kicks off at the Duke of York Column in St. James’s, a central, easily accessible location. From there, you’ll stroll through the lush greenery of St. James’s Park, which alone is worth a quick visit for its beautiful views and lively birdlife. This part of the walk sets a relaxed tone and offers some great photo ops.

Watching the Changing of the Guard

Next, you’ll find yourself at a prime viewing spot outside Buckingham Palace to witness the Changing of the Guard. This is often the highlight for visitors—vibrant uniforms, rhythmic drumbeats, and a chance to see British military precision in action. The ceremony typically lasts about 30 minutes.

Some reviews point out that the experience can be crowded, but most agree it’s worth seeing at least once. A few travelers noted that if the schedule shifts due to weather or other reasons, the ceremony might be replaced with a walking tour of Westminster instead. Keep in mind that heavy rain can also cause cancellations, so don’t rely solely on the schedule.

Inside Buckingham Palace

Once the outside spectacle wraps up, you’ll head to the Palace itself. This segment involves self-guided exploration with an audio guide. The State Rooms are described as lavish, filled with sparkling chandeliers, artworks, and elegant furniture. Many reviews highlight the inside as a “magnificent” and “beautiful” experience, though some find the crowds and security lines a bit overwhelming.

The tour lasts about an hour, giving you time to enjoy the ornate surroundings at your own pace. One notable addition for 2025 is the King’s Tour Artists Exhibition in the Palace’s Ballroom, featuring over 70 artworks personally selected by King Charles III. This offers a rare peek into the monarch’s artistic interests and adds a special touch to the visit.

Additional Highlights

If you’re visiting between August and September, you might be lucky enough to see inside the Palace during its limited public opening—something many reviews mention as a real treat. Remember, the palace is only open to the public for about two months, so timing your trip is key.

How the Experience Feels and What It Means for You

This tour balances guided outdoor entertainment with independent indoor exploration. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and humor, making the outdoor segments engaging. The audio guides inside the Palace are typically straightforward, providing context without overwhelming.

The main advantage here is the combination of seeing a classic ceremonial event and getting a glimpse of royal luxury without the hefty price tag of full palace tours. At around $99, it’s a fairly reasonable way to tick two major London sights off your list.

Of course, the experience isn’t perfect. Some reviewers mention that the tour can feel rushed, especially given the crowds and security lines inside the Palace. Others found the schedule confusing or weather-dependent, which can be frustrating if you’ve planned around specific times.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in royal traditions, enjoy guided commentary, and want a balanced mix of outdoor and indoor sights, this tour could suit you well. It’s a solid option for first-timers wanting to get a broad overview of Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard.

It’s also a good pick if you prefer self-guided visits inside the Palace, allowing you to explore at your own pace, although be prepared for crowds. Travelers with moderate mobility should note that the tour involves walking through outdoor and indoor spaces, but it’s manageable for most.

The Value for Money

Considering the price point ($99.38 per person), this experience offers a lot—outdoor ceremonial viewing, detailed commentary, and access to the State Rooms, including a special 2025 exhibition. The reviews generally reflect satisfaction, especially with guides who add humor and insight. However, for some, the indoor visit might feel a bit crowded or rushed, diminishing the sense of exclusivity.

You’ll also appreciate that the tour is capped at 30 travelers, making it more intimate than some large group outings. The inclusion of an audio guide means you can explore independently inside, which many find preferable to strictly guided tours.

Downsides to Watch Out For

• Weather dependence: Heavy rain or scheduling shifts can alter the experience, replacing the Guard ceremony with a walking tour.
• Crowds inside the Palace: Security and visitor volume can make certain rooms feel crowded, and no photography is permitted.
• Limited public access: The palace is only open in a brief window each year, so plan accordingly.
• No hotel pickup or drop-off: You’ll need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This tour works best for travelers who want a well-rounded experience of Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard without breaking the bank. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen on learning from knowledgeable guides and enjoy self-paced exploration inside the Palace.

It’s also suitable for first-time visitors who want to combine outdoor ceremony viewing with a peek inside one of the world’s most famous royal residences. However, if you’re expecting a private, hassle-free inside tour or are visiting during bad weather, you might want to consider alternative options or plan for possible schedule shifts.

Overall, it’s a solid, convenient way to experience some of London’s most iconic sights, with plenty of positive reviews affirming its value—so long as you’re flexible with the weather and crowds.

FAQs

Is the Buckingham Palace tour suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored for kids, the outdoor viewing and impressive architecture can be interesting for older children. Keep in mind that inside the Palace is crowded and no photography is allowed, which might be less engaging for young kids.

How long does the whole tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including walking, viewing the Guard change, and exploring the Palace’s State Rooms.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are best since you’ll be walking outdoors and inside the Palace. Check the weather forecast—if rain is expected, bring an umbrella or raincoat.

Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?
No, photography is not permitted inside the State Rooms.

What happens if the Changing of the Guard is canceled?
If weather or scheduling causes the Guard ceremony to be canceled, it will be replaced by a longer walking tour of Westminster, which still offers a chance to see some of London’s sights.

Are headsets provided?
Yes, headsets are supplied when appropriate, ensuring you can hear your guide clearly.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The maximum group size is 30, helping keep the experience more personal and manageable.

Do I need to arrange my own transportation?
Yes, the tour does not include hotel transfers. You’ll meet at the central London location specified in the itinerary.

When is the best time to visit Buckingham Palace?
The Palace is open to the public only from August to September, making this window the best chance to see the interior if you’re planning your trip around that.

Planning a visit to Buckingham Palace? This tour offers a combination of iconic guards, elegant interiors, and insightful commentary—just keep an eye on the weather and schedule, and you’ll likely enjoy a memorable London experience.