Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour

Highlights

  • Marvel at the precision with which the King's Foot Guards march to Buckingham Palace

  • Experience a quintessential London tradition - the Changing of the Guards

  • Join our knowledgeable local guide who will provide engaging commentary, deepening your understanding of the ceremony

Summary

Witness the esteemed Changing of the Guard ceremony exactly how it was meant to be seen – from beginning to end alongside your expert guide in this dynamic and rather unknown experience. 

Tour info

Duration
1 hour 30 minutes
Group Size
20
Pricing (From)
Commentary
English
Meeting Point

Duke of York Column, Waterloo Place - 9 Carlton House Terrace, Greater London, England, SW1Y 5AJ

Dropoff location

Buckingham Palace, Greater London, England, SW1A 1AA

Why take this tour?

Immerse yourself in British tradition with our expertly guided Changing of the Guard walking tour. Avoid the common misconception that the best view is outside Buckingham Palace, where many visitors end up missing most of the ceremony due to crowded conditions. Instead, trust your guide to lead you on an extended walking tour that covers the entire Changing of the Guard from start to finish. Our enjoyable small-group size led by your own local guide will guarantee you an insightful journey filled with expert commentary, allowing you to fully appreciate and understand this legendary ceremony. Say goodbye to disappointment and hello to a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

What’s included?

  • Expert, English-speaking tour guide

  • Small groups of 20 people or fewer

  • Headsets when appropriate

  • Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

  • The Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. Even when cancelled, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade.

  • This tour involves a reasonable amount of walking. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

  • Please note that the changing of the guard schedule may change and on different dates we will see either foot-guards or horse guards.

  • Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday and Thursday, you’ll experience the change of the Household Cavalry.

Before you go

  • It is the guests' responsibility to be at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure.

  • Your City Wonders representative will have a City Wonders sign at the meeting point for easy recognition.

  • Please note weather is very changeable in London, please ensure you have rainproof clothing

Cancellation Policy

    Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

Redemption information

    • It is the guests' responsibility to be at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure.
    • Your City Wonders representative will have a City Wonders sign at the meeting point for easy recognition.
    • The Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. Even when cancelled, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade.
    • Please note weather is very changeable in London, please ensure you have rainproof clothing
    • This tour involves a reasonable amount of walking. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
    • Please note that the changing of the guard schedule may change and on different dates we will see either foot-guards or horse guards.
    • Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday and Thursday, you’ll experience the change of the Household Cavalry.

    Disclaimer:
    Government-imposed COVID restrictions for entering countries and venues (e.g. booster shot, negative COVID test, vaccine certificate with a QR code…) may change with little notice. It is the responsibility of all visitors to ensure they check the official travel advice on the government websites and comply with each country’s requirements. City Wonders will not be held responsible for refused access to museums and tourist attractions and no refund will be due.


    Your voucher will be collected or scanned on redemption

About operator:

Created for travel enthusiasts with inquisitive minds, City Wonders is a global tour operator specializing in exclusive and expert tours throughout Italy, France, Spain and the UK. Its intimate tours and day trips invite travelers to go beyond sightseeing, bringing the wonders of each destination to life through behind-the-scene experiences. All City Wonders tours are guided by local experts that know the ins and outs of their city.