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Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London

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$16.53

REG. $19.34

Overview

Experience London’s most iconic royal tradition with an award-winning Changing of the Guard tour. Get exclusive views of the ceremony from prime vantage points, see the guards and horses up close, and enjoy behind-the-scenes insights you won’t get on a standard tour. Guided by experts, you’ll explore historic landmarks like Wellington Barracks, St James’s Palace, and Horse Guards Parade while learning about centuries of British pageantry and royal history. Avoid the crowds and capture unforgettable photo opportunities at Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, and other key sites. This tour is designed to give you a unique, immersive, and memorable royal London experience from start to finish. - Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours - Maximum group size of 20 for a personalized experience - Meet at Jan Smutts Statue at Parliament Square - Not wheelchair accessible; suitable for all ages with moderate mobility

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide at the General Jan Smuts statue in Parliament Square, the only green statue. Arrive by 9:35 am. Nearest Tube: Westminster (District, Circle, Jubilee lines). Your guide, holding a placard, will welcome you, give an intro, and prepare you for the Changing of the Guard Tour.

End Point

End point

The tour concludes at St James’s Palace, where the final new guards arrive. With the crowds dispersed, enjoy relaxed photo opportunities and the royal atmosphere. Your guide will offer tips if you wish to explore Buckingham Palace and its surroundings independently.

Language Offered

English-GUIDE

Itinerary

1. General Jan Smuts statue

Your Changing of the Guard Tour begins at the General Jan Smuts statue, the only green statue in Parliament Square — a clear and easy landmark to find. Please arrive by 9:35 am to allow time for your guide to welcome the group. The nearest Underground station is Westminster (served by the District, Circle, and Jubilee lines), just a short walk away. Your expert tour guide will be waiting at the statue holding a placard with the tour name, ready to greet you and provide a brief introduction. They will outline the day ahead, share key historical insights, and answer any questions before you embark on this royal London experience, ensuring your morning starts smoothly and memorably.

Duration: 10 mins

2. Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall

From Parliament Square, we continue to the historic Horse Guards Parade in London, home of the world-famous Household Cavalry. Here, you’ll see the troopers and their striking horses take their positions in the sentry boxes on Whitehall, a tradition that has been carried out for centuries. This ceremonial guard change is one of the most photographed sights in London and a highlight of any Changing of the Guard tour. A must-see for anyone interested in British history, pageantry, and iconic landmarks.

Duration: 25 mins

3. The Mall

From there, we’ll stroll down The Mall, London’s grand ceremonial boulevard, towards St James’s Palace. Here you’ll watch the palace guards form up and march in striking procession as they make their way towards Buckingham Palace — a truly memorable moment in the Changing of the Guard tradition.

Duration: 25 mins

4. Wellington Barracks

Visit Wellington Barracks, the historic headquarters of the Foot Guards, where you’ll see the new guards preparing to march to Buckingham Palace. Watch as the soldiers assemble in full uniform, accompanied by a regimental band. This behind-the-scenes moment offers a closer look at the precision and discipline behind the Changing of the Guard ceremony. A unique chance to experience royal tradition before the parade begins.

Duration: 20 mins

5. Buckingham Palace

From the West Africa Gate, you’ll enjoy views of Buckingham Palace from the outside, taking in its iconic façade and royal surroundings. Please note, we do not access the front gates of the palace — this stop is all about admiring the palace from a perfect vantage point while avoiding the main crowds. Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British sovereign, symbolizes the United Kingdom’s royal tradition and cultural legacy. Constructed in 1703 and expanded over time, it boasts 775 rooms, including the Throne Room and lavish Ballroom. The world-famous Changing of the Guard draws millions annually. Framed by stunning gardens, the palace continues as a working institution, hosting state events and offering a regal setting for national celebrations.

Duration: 30 mins

6. Clarence House

Clarence House, located in St James’s, London, serves as the official residence of King Charles III and his family. Built during the 1820s, the elegant home has been a royal dwelling for many notable members of the monarchy. The house retains its heritage charm while continuing to function as a working royal residence. Public access is limited, but its historic significance and royal connections remain profound.

Duration: 10 mins

7. St. James's Palace

We end the tour at St James’s Palace, where the final group of new guards arrive before making their way towards Buckingham Palace. From here, your guide will offer tips and advice if you’d like to explore more of Buckingham Palace and its surroundings on your own. By this time, much of the crowd has begun to leave, giving you a more relaxed chance to take photos and enjoy the royal setting. It’s the perfect way to round off your Changing of the Guard experience at your own pace. St James’s Palace is among the oldest royal residences, established in 1536. Commissioned by Henry VIII, it served as the monarch’s official home until the 18th century. While no longer an active residence, it retains deep ceremonial significance and houses several royal offices today. This historic landmark remains central to important state functions and showcases Tudor architecture in the heart of London.

Duration: 30 mins

Inclusion

Get up close for photos of the Royal Horse guards of the Household Cavalry

Guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony

Expert tour guide from an award-winning company

Capture memorable photos at Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace and Clarence House

Exclusion

Gratuities (optional)

Entrance tickets to Buckingham Palace

Tour does not go to Buckingham Palace’s front gates

Cancellation Policy

Refundable tickets

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The tour begins at 9:45 am, with a recommended reporting time of 9:35 am. If you arrive late, the guide will meet you at the next stop along the route, joining you with the group already in progress.

Supplied by London Strides