Guided tour

London: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Activity provider:Urban Saunters Ltd
Guided tour

London: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Activity provider:Urban Saunters Ltd
Save up to 15%

From US$ 24.71 US$ 21 per person

Witness one of the most dazzling ceremonies in the world in London in a private or small group, with a friendly local guide bringing you closer to the action of the Changing of the Guards.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
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Duration 105 minutes
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Private or small groups available

Experience

Highlights
  • Take in the highlights of this world-famous ceremony
  • Experience Changing of the Guard with a true local
  • Learn about British history and the royal family from your guide
  • Follow the guards journey to Buckingham Palace on foot
  • Choose between a shared group or private tour
Full description

Join a local guide as you are served a slice of world-famous ceremonial action with a private or shared group tour Changing of the Guards experience. There is so much more to this extravagant shift change than meets the eye.

With your guide to lead the way, you’ll soon know your Welsh from your Grenadier guard, and understand what the deal is with those fuzzy bearskin hats.

Hear the astounding origins of this dazzling spectacle and get a handle on the significance of every color, button, mascot, symbol, and movement in this most British of traditions.

From the best possible viewing point, your small group will join the guards on their journey toward Buckingham Palace as you march to the beat of their drums. Get as close as possible with the opportunity to take some amazing snapshots.

Includes
  • English Speaking Tour Guide
  • Private tour (if selected)
  • Changing of the Guard viewing
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Tips
Not suitable for
  • People with back problems
  • People with mobility impairments
  • People with heart problems
  • People with respiratory issues

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Meet the guide by the Equestrian statue of Edward VII, Waterloo Place. Look for the statue of a man on a horse and a sign saying "Urban Saunters." Arriving by tube: Take the tube to Piccadilly Circus and take exit No. 3 onto Regent Street/St. James's. Walk south down Regent Street towards St. James's Park (do not walk north towards Oxford Street). Waterloo Place is at the end of Regent Street.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Umbrella
  • Water
  • Comfortable clothes

Not allowed

  • Luggage or large bags

Know before you go

  • This tour will take place rain or shine.
  • You will not stand at the forecourt of Buckingham Palace as, due to crowds, you see very little and the experience would be less fun
  • It is at the discretion of the British Army to change or cancel the ceremony. The announcement will not be made until after 10:30 AM so come rain or shine, the Changing of the Guard experience will go ahead
  • If the full ceremony is canceled, there will still be the chance to see the guards marching, just without the music
Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 531 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Value for money
    4.7/5
  • Service
    5/5

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Star rating:

Excellent tour of changing of the guard. Our guide Francis was professional, informative, entertaining, and kept a good pace. He had us in the best strategic spots for viewing the different aspects of the changing of the guard. Strongly recommend this tour. Was well worth it and ask for Francis!

May 24, 2023

Enjoyed seeing the changing of the guards from various spots. Our tour guide Richard was excellent, very knowledgeable and interesting to listen to. He went above and beyond with helping direct people from our group after tour to subway stations, other attractions and helped my husband and I find a great little pub for lunch. Slight sprinkling of rain didn't dampen our enjoyment. Thank you.

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May 13, 2023

This tour was awesome! Nathan was our tour guide and was extremely knowledgeable. He moved at a good pace and made sure we were always in the optimal location to watching the changing. Would definitely recommend if you want to experience the changing of the guard and also learn more about the monarchy.

April 23, 2023

Product ID: 413142