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Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London

684 Reviews 4.94 out of 5 stars Based on 684 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 99% of travelers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
London, England

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On average, this is booked 29 (0) days in advance.

2 to 3 hours (approx.)
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Overview

Your Changing of the Guard tour ensures you don't miss a moment of the action. Standing in the best spots around London’s Royal Palaces, you'll capture incredible photos as the Royal Guard march to the stirring tunes of the military band.

Along the way your knowledgeable tour guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of this centuries-old ceremony, making sure you understand the nuances of what you’re witnessing. Subject to schedule your Changing of the Guard tour will also give you the opportunity to get great photos of the Royal Horseguards of the Household Cavalry.

Your Changing of the Guard tour also includes stops at the key ceremony and royal landmarks. You’ll discover the incredible history of Buckingham Palace and get up close to St James’s Palace and Clarence House, the official London residence of His Majesty King Charles III.

Immerse yourself in royal pageantry and enjoy the most comprehensive views of this traditional British ceremony.

What's Included

  • Get up close for photos of the Royal Horseguards in the Household Cavalry
  • Guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
  • Get memorable photos at Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and Clarence House
  • Gratuities (optional)
  • Entrance Tickets to the Royal Palaces and Landmarks
  • This tour does not go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace.
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Victoria Street
London SW1E 5EA, UK

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Whitehall
London SW1A 2ET, UK

The tour ends at Horseguards Parade

Options & Pricing

Start Time

What To Expect

Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard is a traditional ceremony showcasing the handover of duties between the King’s Guard. The ceremony features a precision display of marching, music, and military pageantry. Guards in iconic tunics and bearskin hats parade to live music. The event symbolizes British heritage and monarchy, blending discipline with centuries-old tradition.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch, is a symbol of the United Kingdom's heritage and royal tradition. Built in 1703 and expanded over centuries, it features 775 rooms, including the Throne Room and the opulent Ballroom. The iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony draws millions annually. Surrounded by lush gardens, the palace remains a working institution, hosting state events and providing a regal backdrop to national celebrations.
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30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

St. James's Palace

St James's Palace is one of the oldest royal residences, dating back to 1536. Built by Henry VIII, it served as the official residence of the monarch until the 18th century. Although no longer a royal residence, it remains an important ceremonial and administrative hub. Its historic rooms host key royal events, and it houses several royal offices. The palace’s iconic red brick façade is a symbol of British heritage.
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20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Clarence House

Clarence House, located in St James’s, London, is the official residence of King Charles III and his family. Built in the 1820s, it has served as a royal home for various members of the British monarchy. The house is a beautiful example of Regency architecture, featuring elegant interiors and a tranquil garden. Clarence House hosts official events and ceremonies, playing a significant role in the British royal family’s public life.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

The Mall

The Mall is a grand ceremonial avenue in central London, stretching from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square. Lined with trees and flanked by royal landmarks, it serves as the site for major state events and royal processions. Known for its vibrant red surface, The Mall hosts iconic celebrations, such as royal weddings and national holidays, making it a focal point of British culture and history.
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20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

St. James's Park

St James's Park, located in central London, is one of the city's oldest and most beautiful royal parks. Spanning 57 acres, it features lush gardens, a serene lake, and picturesque views of Buckingham Palace. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including pelicans and swans. With walking paths, scenic bridges, and vibrant flowerbeds, St James's Park offers a peaceful escape in the heart of London, attracting both locals and visitors year-round.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • The British Army can alter the ceremony at any time. In bad weather, they may perform a 'Wet Change,' a shorter version of the Changing of the Guard without music, decided on the morning of the ceremony.
  • This tour does not go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace as you will miss most of the ceremony. This tour will give you the best views of the guards and ceremony around the many Royal Palaces.
  • On Sunday's this tour may see the 'Lodging The Colour' - an adapted version of the Changing of the Guard ceremony

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-271934P3

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Reviews

4.94
684 reviews

Average 4.94 out of 5 stars based on 684 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
657
4 stars
19
3 stars
2
2 stars
4
1 star
2

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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 29 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Get up close for photos of the Royal Horseguards in the Household Cavalry
  • Guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
  • Get memorable photos at Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and Clarence House
  • Knowledgeable tour guide from an award-winning tour company
  • Gratuities (optional)
  • Entrance Tickets to the Royal Palaces and Landmarks
  • This tour does not go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace.

Additional Info

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • The tour is not suitable for wheelchairs, walking difficulties or prams/strollers/buggies.
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The British Army can alter the ceremony at any time. In bad weather, they may perform a 'Wet Change,' a shorter version of the Changing of the Guard without music, decided on the morning of the ceremony.
  • This tour does not go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace as you will miss most of the ceremony. This tour will give you the best views of the guards and ceremony around the many Royal Palaces.
  • On Sunday's this tour may see the 'Lodging The Colour' - an adapted version of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers

Report Product Issue

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Cancellation Policy

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Free cancellation
100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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