Changing of the Guard Small Group Walking Tour in London

Witness the world-famous ceremony while learning about the orgins of this iconic routine

5.00 (13) ·

Travel Flexibly

· 1.45h · England, United Kingdom

Changing of the Guard Small Group Walking Tour in London

Statue with a golden angel on top of other victorian figures in front of Buckingham Palace in a large public square

Looking for the best way to witness the famous Changing of the Guard Ceremony in London? With your expert guide leading the way, follow the guards as they march along their famous route. Your local guide has the inside scoop on the top spots for being close to all the action, so you’re guaranteed to have the best views—and photo opportunities! Avoid the overwhelming crowds in front of Buckingham Palace and immerse yourself in British tradition on this unforgettable, small-group tour!

What you get with this tour

Passionate, English-Speaking Guide
Changing of the Guard Ceremony
Maximum Group Size of 15
Guide Gratuity
Food and Drinks

Tour Itinerary

1

Your guide will be waiting for you at the Equestrian statue of Edward VII
Your guide will be waiting for you at the Equestrian statue of Edward VII
2

Buckingham Palace
Once you meet your guide, you will be led to the first exclusive spot outside of the ubiquitous Buckingham palace to wait for the start of the ceremony.
3

Avoid The Crowds
You'll avoid the typical vantage points occupied by the crowds who aren't privy to the best spots to see the guards.
4

Historical Ceremony
Gain insightful historical context surrounding the pomp and circumstance of the ceremony and how it developed over time.
5

British Traditions
See the different landmarks that give color to the rich and deeply rooted British traditions as you move from different vantage points to keep up with the guard.
6

Welsh and Grenadier guard
Marvel at the splendor of the different military units that symbolically represent the diverse history of the once-independent nations of England, Scotland, and Wales and their continual unity under the crown.
7

The Queen Victoria Monument
See the beautiful gilded tribute to one of the most iconic monarchs of England's history.
8

Tour concludes with the end of the ceremony
After the grand finish of the ceremony, you are free to stick around to explore the amazing landmarks and architecture on your own.

Additional Information

Meet your local guide in front of the impressive Equestrian statue of Edward VII, and then get ready for one of the most quintessential British experiences! The Changing of the Guard is London’s most iconic public ceremony, and your expert guide is ready to show you the absolute best way to experience it! Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be moving quite quickly to keep up with the guards as they march along.

Rather than standing with an enormous crowd in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace, your guide will lead you to lesser-known spots where you can get as close as possible to all the action! As you follow along with the ceremony, your passionate guide will share intriguing tales about the origins of this historic spectacle, along with fascinating details about those legendary uniforms.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour Description

Your 1.45-hour tour includes:

Expert guide
Changing of the Guard ceremony
Exclusive vantage points
Amazing photo opportunities
Historical and cultural explanation behind the Ceremony
Max 15 People

Get Ready for the Guards!

Get ready to immerse yourself in British tradition by taking part in one of England’s most iconic ceremonies! Meet your local guide and small group of fellow travelers in front of the Equestrian statue of Edward VII, and then get ready to follow along as the guards begin their famous march. In order to not miss any moment of the ceremony, be sure to arrive fifteen minutes early and wear your comfiest walking shoes— your guide will be moving pretty fast to keep up with the guards!

Experience the Best Viewpoints

While most tourists watch the famous ceremony from the forecourt of Buckingham Palace, your expert guide knows that this isn’t the best way! Rather than being stuck in a massive crowd and unable to really see much, you’ll be led to the best locations to fully take in the event! As the guards march along their route, your passionate guide will ensure that you get as close as possible to the action. Have your cameras ready, because you’ll be at the perfect vantage point for taking amazing photos!

Learn About the Changing of the Guard

As you marvel at the Changing of the Guard ceremony, your engaging guide will share the fascinating history behind this renowned spectacle. Learn about the different types of guards, the significance behind their characteristic uniforms, and the intriguing origins of this world-famous ceremony.

Once the tour ends, stick around! You’re free to stick around and continue exploring this historic area for as long as you’d like.

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Customer reviews

13 total reviews

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5.0/5 (based on 13 reviews)

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Very awesome tour

13 October 2025

Reviewed by
Crystal Neldon

If you want to see the Changing of the Guard this is the way to do it. Very informative and we were in position to see all the action going on without a huge crowd.