Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace with Funny Historian

5.0 (829 reviews) London, England
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Duration2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
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TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 35 travelers

Overview

This is the highest-rated Changing of the Guard walking tour on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Led by a historian and designed with a former Guardsman, this tour gives you the historical context, insider knowledge and the best viewing spots for the capital’s most iconic ceremony. Not only that, you'll get to walk alongside the Guards and ceremonial band as they march down The Mall—yes, it is as exciting as it sounds.

You'll see Buckingham Palace, of course, but you'll also visit St James's Palace and Clarence House, discovering how these royal residences fit into this world-famous ceremony. If we're lucky—it does happen—you might even catch a glimpse of the King or Queen.
Just as importantly, there'll be plenty of fun and laughter along the way.

At the end of the tour, as the crowds begin to disperse, you can either go to the gates of Buckingham Palace for some fantastic photo opportunities or walk back to Trafalgar Square with your guide and enjoy some bonus sightseeing along the way.

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Changing of the Guard Tour

Effective 1 Jan 2027: James II Statue, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DS, United Kingdom

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace Experience

What's included

  • Expert local guide
  • Prime viewing spots
  • Gratuities/tips

What to expect

  1. Trafalgar Square
    10m
    We begin in Trafalgar Square, the historic heart of London. Not only is it easy to find, it also has a direct link to the origins of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. While you're here, we'll show you the spot that marks the very centre of London. You'll also discover why Lord Horatio Nelson is one of Britain's greatest heroes, what we did with all the cannons captured from the defeated French, and why it might be worth patting the paw of one of the famous lion statues.
  2. St. James's Palace
    Pass by
    This palace rivals Buckingham Palace and is a must-see in its own right. It’s also where the Guards come off duty, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes perspective of the ceremony. One of London’s most historic sites, it’s steeped in centuries of history, scandal and intrigue. Not every tour includes it — but we most definitely do.
  3. Buckingham Palace
    Pass by
    One of the highlights of the tour is marching alongside the King's Guards and their ceremonial band as they make their way down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace. Few experiences bring you closer to the spectacle. You'll hear the military music, watch the precision drill at close quarters, and enjoy views that most visitors never even realise are possible.
  4. Wellington Barracks
    15m
    This immense Georgian barracks is where the Changing of the Guard both begins and ends, and we will be here to see the new Guard come on duty.
  5. Clarence House
    Pass by
    Your Changing of the Guard experience concludes outside Clarence House, the home of the King and Queen - which is just a couple of minutes away from Buckingham Palace. It will also be a final opportunity to see the Guards and the ceremonial band, and we are likely to see the Horse Guards as well. From here, it’s a short walk to Green Park or St James’s Park stations, or around 15 minutes on foot to Trafalgar Square or Parliament Square.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Your guide will be holding a red Fantastic Walks flag and wearing a Fantastic Walks rucksack. Please be at the meeting point ten minutes before the scheduled start time. If you're late, head along The Mall to Friary Court, St James's Palace. Look for a guide with a red flag.

End point

We finish our walk at Buckingham Palace. From there, it's just a short walk back to Trafalgar Square. Green Park tube station and St James's Park tube station are also very close.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for those using a motorized cart.

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

5.0 (829)
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Operated by Fantastic Walks · Booked through Viator
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