Changing of the Guard and Buckingham Palace Entry Ticket

Exploring the Royal Wonders of London: A Detailed Look at the Changing of the Guard and Buckingham Palace Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching a glimpse of British royalty up close, this tour offers a compelling way to do it without needing an invitation to the palace itself. It combines the spectacle of the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony with a self-guided tour of Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms, giving you a taste of regal life and tradition. While we haven’t experienced this particular tour firsthand, the reviews and details paint a picture of a well-rounded, engaging day in central London.

What really catches our eye are two things: first, the insider explanations provided during the Guard ceremony, which help you understand the significance behind the marching and music. Second, the chance to explore the lavish State Rooms, filled with priceless art, gifts, and furnishings, at your own pace. One aspect to consider is that the palace is only open to the public during specific months (July, August, September), which makes planning your visit around this window essential.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a blend of spectacle and culture, especially those interested in British traditions and royal history. If you enjoy guided insights but prefer to explore at your own pace, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s also a solid choice for visitors who are eager to see the Queen’s residence but aren’t necessarily after a long, full-day tour.

Key Points

• Guided Ceremony: You’ll get a front-row view of the Changing of the Guard with insights from a local guide.
• Self-Guided Palace Visit: Explore Buckingham Palace’s opulent State Rooms independently with an audio tour.
• Authentic Experience: The combination offers both live spectacle and immersive interior access.
• Cost and Duration: Priced at $96.98 per person, lasting approximately 3.5 hours, with flexible start times.
• Limited Access: Palace tickets are only available during specific months, so timing is key.
• High Ratings: With a 4.8-star rating based on 4 reviews, it’s well-regarded by past participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Royal Tour

Starting Point and Meeting Details

Your adventure begins at Waterloo Place, near the Equestrian statue of Edward VII. The meeting spot is easy to find if you’re using the Tube—exit at Piccadilly Circus and walk down Regent Street toward St. James’s Park. Look for the statue of a man on a horse with a sign reading “Urban Saunters,” which is your guide’s base.

The Changing of the Guard: A Ceremonial Spectacle

The highlight for many is the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This process involves the Old Guard handing over duty to the New Guard in a display of military precision and pageantry. The Guards, dressed in their iconic red uniforms and bearskin hats, march in sync to music, creating a truly picture-worthy scene.

Your guide will help you secure the best vantage points, so you can avoid the crowds that often gather around this event. They also explain the ceremony’s significance—from the Guards’ roles to the band’s music—adding depth to what might otherwise be just a parade.

Reviewers have praised this part of the tour especially. One said, “Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable about the area, history, and stories about the royalty going back centuries,” which enhances the experience beyond just watching soldiers march. It’s a great way to start your royal encounter with a splash of British pomp.

Buckingham Palace: Self-Guided Exploration of the State Rooms

After the ceremony, you’ll move on to explore the interior of Buckingham Palace. This isn’t a guided tour inside; instead, you’ll have access to the State Rooms through an audio tour that you can navigate at your own pace.

The State Rooms are the regal heart of the palace, filled with exquisite furnishings, artworks, and presents from various countries. You’ll see the lavish décor, including the Queen’s gifts from heads of state and stunning tapestries. The audio guide provides commentary that brings the rooms to life, explaining stories behind the furnishings and artworks that adorn these historic chambers.

An added treat is the Palace Gardens, which often feature in royal events. The 16-hectare outdoor space is usually not open to the public, making it a rare glimpse into the royal outdoor life.

More Great Tours Nearby

Why Timing Matters

The palace only opens to the public during July, August, and September each year. This limited window means tickets are in high demand, so booking early is advisable if you want the inside look at Buckingham Palace.

The combination of the ceremony and the self-guided tour makes this a well-paced, engaging visit. You get the spectacle of the guards and the opportunity to appreciate the elegance inside the palace without the pressure of a guided inside tour, which can sometimes feel rushed or overly structured.

The Value of This Experience

Priced at just under $97, this tour offers a lot for the price. You’re not just watching a ceremonial event; you’re also getting access to the palace’s interiors, which are usually off-limits without a special ticket. The self-guided aspect allows you to linger in the rooms, absorb the décor, and listen to the stories at your own pace, which many travelers find more enriching.

What’s particularly noteworthy is the positive feedback from past participants. One reviewer shared, “We were the only ones who had booked the guided tour, so we got a ‘private’ experience, and it was excellent.” That flexibility and personalized attention can make a big difference, especially if you enjoy exploring without feeling rushed.

Practical Considerations

Keep in mind this tour involves a fair amount of walking—from the meeting point to the Guard ceremony and around the palace grounds. Wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for the crowds, especially during peak months. Since photography inside the palace isn’t allowed, you’ll want to focus on soaking in the sights and stories rather than snapping endless pictures.

The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or meals, but it’s easy to combine with other sightseeing in Westminster or nearby areas. Also, note that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, given the walking involved.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

One reviewer noted, “Really enjoyable walking tour of the Westminster area and inside tour of Buckingham Palace. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about the area, history, and stories about the royalty going back centuries.” This emphasizes how much you can learn beyond just watching guards or walking through rooms.

Another shared, “We got a private tour because we were the only ones booked, and it was excellent,” highlighting the tour’s flexibility and the value of a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re keen on royal traditions and want to see Buckingham Palace’s interior, this tour offers a compelling blend of ceremony and interior exploration at a reasonable price. It’s particularly suited for those who value guided insights but prefer to explore at their own pace once inside the palace.

While it’s not the most comprehensive tour out there, the combination of watching the Guards and seeing the State Rooms makes it a well-rounded experience. Just remember that the palace’s limited opening months mean planning ahead is essential.

For travelers interested in British history, pomp, and the chance to glimpse inside one of the world’s most famous residences, this tour checks many boxes. It’s not overly long, so it fits well into a busy day of sightseeing, and the positive reviews suggest it’s both enjoyable and informative.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify, the tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing, so it’s best suited for older children or teens who can handle that. Be mindful of the limited access inside the palace and the need for comfortable shoes.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a small bag for essentials. Photography inside the palace isn’t allowed, so you might want to leave large bags behind.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is helpful if your plans shift unexpectedly.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3.5 hours, with the start time depending on availability. The experience includes the Guard ceremony and the self-guided palace visit.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Waterloo Place near the Equestrian statue of Edward VII and concludes back at the same meeting point.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the walking involved and the nature of the venues.

In summary, this tour combines a classic British tradition with a rare inside look at Buckingham Palace, making it a fascinating choice for anyone wanting a taste of royal life without the full-day commitment. It’s well-reviewed, reasonably priced, and flexible enough to fit into most London itineraries. Just plan ahead for the limited months of palace access, and you’re set for a memorable royal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: