Skip the Line Westminster Abbey & Guard Change Tour

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Highlights

  • Skip the line into Westminster Abbey.

  • See two spectacular Changing of the Guard ceremonies.

  • Walk beside the King’s Life Guard as they cross the Park.

  • Tour St. James’s Park and discover its fascinating history.

  • Get insights on the Royal Family from your expert guide.

Summary

Skip the line into Westminster Abbey and witness the world-famous Changing of the Guard as you watch the King’s Guard perform centuries-old ceremonies.

Tour info

Duration
3 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
20
Pricing (From)
Adult (18+): (18-99 years)
£84.00
Child (6-17): (6-17 years)
£74.00
Infant (0-5): (0-5 years)
£0.00
Commentary
English
Dropoff location

Horse Guards Parade , London , SW1A 2AU, GB

Why take this tour?

Immerse yourself in two iconic London experiences in one morning on this unforgettable tour. Begin your day with skip-the-line access to Westminster Abbey and explore one of England's most legendary monuments with a guide who knows the site like the back of their hand. From there, you're off to the Changing of the Guard. But you won’t just watch the ceremony—you'll get as close as you can to the action. Your guide will lead you straight to the best vantage points and most secluded spots for a close-up peek at London’s most popular spectacle. Witness two different ceremonies from four different angles as your guide regales you with the unbelievable history of the iconic tradition.

Your morning begins with skip-the-line access to one of the most storied buildings in the United Kingdom: Westminster Abbey. From royal weddings and funerals to coronations and more, this site has witnessed countless events that are immortalized in history books around the world. There's a lot to see here—from the Coronation Chair and the stunning High Altar to the tombs of countless historical greats—and trying to navigate it on your own can feel overwhelming. Luckily, your guide will lead you straight to the can't-miss spots so you can make the most of every second in this sacred space.

After leaving the Abbey, you'll make your way over to St. James Palace to witness the guards preparing to make their famous march. These are real soldiers with real weapons carrying out their daily duty of protecting the Palace. Hear about what their duties include and the significance of their highly symbolic uniforms.

Last but not least, you'll march alongside the soldiers and head to a special vantage point near the Wellington Barracks, home to all the Foot Guard’s Bands, that lets you get as close as possible to the action. Stroll across St. James’s Park to learn the history of this royal green space and arrive at the Horse Guards Parade. Watch the equally impressive Changing of the King’s Life Guard, which features mounted, armor-clad soldiers and their immaculately groomed steeds.

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What’s included?

  • Skip the line Westminster Abbey tickets

  • Small group of 20 guests maximum

  • Licensed Blue Badge guide

  • Expertly guided walking tour

  • Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off

  • Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

  • Our group tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible/mobility friendly. Those with wheelchairs and mobility issues should contact us so we can arrange your visit.

  • IMPORTANT NOTE - The Changing of the Guard 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. When this occurs, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music or parade.

  • Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.

Before you go

  • This tour is in English.

  • This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.

  • The tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.

  • Our group tour utilizes multiple areas that are not wheelchair accessible/mobility friendly. Those with wheelchairs and mobility issues should contact us so we can arrange your visit.

  • Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.

  • IMPORTANT NOTE - The Changing of the Guard 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. When this occurs, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music or parade.

  • Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.

Cancellation Policy

    Cancellations received greater than 24 hours prior to tour commencement are fully refundable. Cancellations received within 24 hours of tour commencement are nonrefundable. Amendment requests are subject to availability and price changes. Late arrivals and no-shows are non-refundable. This is applicable to any tour participant that fails to arrive or arrives after tour departure.

Redemption information

    Mobile tickets will be accepted.
    Your voucher will be collected or scanned on redemption
Operator Website

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About operator:

Walks (takewalks.com, walksofitaly.com) began over a decade ago (2008, to be exact) in Rome, Italy. We quickly became the premier walking tour company in 7 countries - Italy, Spain, France, the UK, Greece, and Portugal. Our US cities include San Francisco, NYC, Boston, Chicago, and New Orleans.

In 2021, we joined The Hornblower Group (cityexperiences.com) expanding our reach and working alongside this powerhouse travel brand.

Our tour products vary but predominantly we #takewalks, exploring the world by foot - we believe, the best way to get into the heart of a city and its incredible people. From introductory strolls to food tours, day trips, cooking classes, and below the surface, in-depth tours, we have our hand in everything a traveler could want. Oh, and we also like to give our clients exclusive access to the biggest attractions in the world...

Despite the big changes in our brand over the years, our focus has remained simple - to relentlessly create tours with the client experience at the forefront and anchored upon the dedicated, intelligent, and above all, passionate local guides who want to share their cities with you.

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