London Buckingham Palace: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

If you’re planning a visit to London and want to see one of the most iconic royal traditions, this Changing of the Guard walking tour might just be your ticket. It’s not just about catching the ceremony — it’s about experiencing it with a knowledgeable guide who takes you beyond the crowd and shows you the best vantage points for photos and insights. We’ll be honest: this tour offers a lot if you’re keen on a more comprehensive view of the spectacle, compared to just hanging out at Buckingham Palace gates.

Two things really stand out for us: First, the expert guide who makes the history and tradition come alive, and second, the chance to see some stunning views and capture those Insta-worthy shots without competing with hundreds of other travelers. That said, it’s not perfect for everyone — the tour moves quite quickly, and if you’re mobility-impaired or not comfortable walking, it might not be ideal. Still, if you’re a history buff or someone who loves a good photo op, this tour is a solid, well-priced option.

The main consideration? The changing of the guard is subject to weather and schedule changes, so don’t be surprised if it gets canceled or altered last minute. It’s also a two-hour walk, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you’re after a relaxed experience with plenty of time to soak in the sights, you might prefer a more leisurely approach, but for active explorers who want to see all the angles, this tour hits the mark.

This is best suited for travelers who want an insider’s look at one of London’s most celebrated traditions, without the overwhelming crowds, and don’t mind a pace that’s brisk and informative.

Key Points

• Expert guides provide entertaining and insightful commentary throughout the walk.
• Strategic vantage points mean you’ll get better photos and closer views of the guards.
• Short, 2-hour tour well-suited for those with limited time but a desire to see multiple key sites.
• Walking experience includes some quick steps and minimal walking, so comfortable shoes are important.
• Weather can impact the ceremony schedule, so be ready for possible last-minute changes.
• Affordable price at just $20 per person offers good value considering the guide and exclusive insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene for Your Tour

When it comes to witnessing the Changing of the Guard in London, many travelers stick to the crowds outside Buckingham Palace gates. But this approach often means missing the best view and the full experience. This tour flips that around — instead of waiting in line and getting squeezed by other travelers, you follow your guide through key locations, giving you a more complete, less crowded view of the ceremony.

The starting point is outside Charing Cross Station, next to the Clermont Hotel, which is an easy spot to meet up. From there, the guide leads you on a 2-hour walk that covers some of London’s most scenic spots: St James’s Palace, the Horse Guards Parade, the vast expanse of St James’s Park, and of course, the outside of Buckingham Palace itself.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Charing Cross

The tour kicks off in the heart of London, giving you a central meeting point that’s easy to access. It’s a good idea to arrive by 9:45 am for a prompt start, especially since the tour lasts until around noon. Early morning is often the best time to enjoy the sights before the crowds swell later in the day.

Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard

Most visitors think the best spot to watch the ceremony is right at the gates. But the guide advises against standing there for hours, as the view can be blocked and what you see is often just the tail end of the ceremony. Instead, your guide will lead you to vantage points along the route, where you’ll have a clear, close-up view of the guards marching and performing their duties.

During the ceremony, the Queen’s Guard hands over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace and St James’s Palace to the new guard. You’ll hear about the tradition’s origins—dating back to King Henry VII—and how Queen Victoria formalized it in 1837, which adds context to the spectacle.

More Great Tours Nearby

St James’s Park and Horse Guards Parade

Next, the tour takes in St James’s Park, one of London’s most beautiful royal parks. Here, you’ll have the chance to see the guards’ march and possibly get some great photos of the parade route. The Horse Guards Parade is another highlight, as it’s where mounted soldiers often perform, adding a regal flair to the experience.

The Mall and Royal Views

While the tour mainly focuses on the changing of the guard, walking along The Mall — London’s grand avenue connecting Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace — offers a majestic backdrop for photos and a sense of the royal atmosphere.

What You’ll Experience During the Tour

Our favorite part? The expert guiding. From the reviews, it’s clear that having a guide who knows the ins and outs of royal traditions makes a big difference. Julie from the US mentioned that her guide “Ian was great about figuring out the confusion, gathering all of the attendees, and heading out for our tour. He was funny, knowledgeable, and got us where we needed to be just when we needed to be there.” That personalized, energetic approach really enhances the experience.

You’ll be moving between vantage points, which means you’ll get different perspectives of the guards’ procession and have many chances to snap photos without the crush of crowds. That’s a huge plus if you’re keen on good photos or just want to avoid the jostling.

Insights and commentary

The guide’s commentary is likely to cover the history and significance of the guard change, the uniforms, and the royal traditions behind it all. This elevates the experience from a simple spectacle to an educational moment, perfect for history buffs or those curious about royal customs.

Photo opportunities

Expect to get very close at times — literally within reach of the marching guards — and to capture some memorable shots. The tour emphasizes taking “Insta-ready photos”, and you’ll appreciate the strategic positioning away from the crowds.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and What’s Included

At just $20 per person, this tour offers very good value considering the guide and the insider access. The 2-hour itinerary is well-paced for those who want to see everything without rushing, though it’s fast enough that you’ll need to wear comfortable shoes. Some walking is involved, including quick steps and possibly navigating a few stairs, so plan accordingly.

The tour is conducted in English, with the meeting point clearly outside Charing Cross Station. You should arrive by 9:45 am to start promptly, and be prepared for the tour to end around 12:00 pm. If the weather is bad or if the schedule is disrupted, the changing of the guard might be canceled or altered, but the tour itself will still go on, focusing on the walk and sights.

Cancellation and flexibility

One of the biggest perks is the full refund possibility if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance. This makes it easier to plan your trip with confidence.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an up-close, insider perspective on one of London’s most iconic ceremonies without the hassle of fighting crowds. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in history, royal traditions, or photography. If you’re physically able and enjoy walking, the pace will suit you well.

It’s less suited for those with mobility issues or low stamina due to the brisk pace and some quick walking; also, the schedule depends on weather and operational schedules, so flexibility is key. Families with older children or teens who appreciate history and photos will probably enjoy it, but it’s not specifically designed for young children or those needing accommodations for mobility.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a more comprehensive, less chaotic way to experience the Changing of the Guard, this guided walking tour is a fantastic option. For a reasonable price, you get a professional guide who makes the history and ceremony engaging, plus the chance to see multiple vantage points that most visitors miss.

The tour’s focus on insider tips and strategic viewing spots makes it especially valuable for travelers who want those perfect photos and a richer understanding of the tradition. While you might encounter some last-minute schedule changes or have to walk briskly, the overall experience offers a good balance of education, entertainment, and photographic opportunities.

This tour would be a great pick for anyone wanting to see this iconic ceremony with a bit of local insight, especially if they’re comfortable with a little walking and eager to avoid the typical crowds.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
It’s probably not ideal, as it involves some walking and quick movements. The guide does move quickly to keep up with the guards, so if mobility is a concern, you might want to consider alternative viewing options.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting around 9:45 am and finishing near noon.

Where does the tour meet?
Outside Charing Cross Station, next to the Clermont Hotel — a straightforward and central location.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must since the tour involves walking and quick steps. Also, consider the weather – bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed.

Is there a bathroom break during the tour?
The provided information doesn’t specify, but since it’s a two-hour walk starting in a central location, you might find facilities nearby if needed before or after the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Will I get to see the change of the guard directly?
You’ll see the ceremony from carefully selected vantage points, rather than from the crowds at the gates, giving a closer and less obstructed view.

What if the ceremony is canceled due to weather?
The guide will still lead the walking tour, focusing on the sites and history, and you might see a different version of the changing of the household cavalry instead.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy history and walking tours. Children comfortable with brisk walks and standing for a while will likely enjoy it, but it’s not specifically geared toward young kids.

How much does it cost?
The tour costs $20 per person, which is very reasonable considering the guide and the experience.

If you’re interested in a well-organized, insightful way to witness the Changing of the Guard, this walking tour offers a memorable, photo-friendly experience with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. Just be ready for some walking, and keep your camera handy!

You can check availability for your dates here: