London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard
Explore royal history at London's famous church before seeing Buckingham Palace's iconic ceremony
Without a plan, visitors to London end up missing Westminster Abbey’s hidden stories and losing out on the best view of the Changing of the Guard. With us, skip the line and enter Britain’s most iconic church, led by an expert who reveals royal secrets from coronations to ancient tombs. Then, secure the ultimate spot to witness the Guard’s iconic march. Don’t settle for rushed glimpses—this tour is your key to experiencing London’s grandeur with nothing left unseen.
- Meet your guide at Parliament Square
- Westminster Abbey
- Coronation Chair
- Famous tombs of UK Monarchs
- Poet's corner
- Downing Street
- St. James Park
- Buckingham Palace
- Changing of the Guard (or horse guard)
- Buckingham Palace
You’ll meet your authorized Blue Badge guide in Parliament Square for the short walk to magnificent Westminster Abbey, where you’ll skip the line and head straight in to explore. Like a walking Westminster encyclopedia, your guide knows everything worth knowing about this 1,000-year-old site. They’ll bring its history to life with engaging stories of the seismic events that happened here.
Leaving the abbey, you’ll stroll through beautiful St. James Park to Buckingham Palace, just in time to find a great spot to watch the famous Changing of the Guards ceremony. You will even have the opportunity to visit nearby Downing Street—the street that plays home to Britain's Prime Minister and other key figures while they're in power.
Westminster Abbey Guided Tour Description
Your 3-hour tour includes:
Skip-the-line walking tour of Westminster Abbey
Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace (certain days; weather permitting)
Fun, knowledgeable local guide
Maximum group size of 20
The Changing of the Guard occurs only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays we will bring you to the Horse Guard Ceremony and a walking tour of Westminster area. There are also times where the changing of the Guard will not go ahead on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays without prior notice and this is due to last minute decision made by the palace, local authorities or bad weather.
Westminster Abbey
Built on the site where a fisherman saw a vision of St. Peter in the 10th century, the Abbey has over a thousand years of history as a religious center, although the incredible building you'll see today is only around 750 years old, having been consecrated in 1269. Huge events in British history have played out here, including almost 40 royal coronations and the funeral of Princess Diana—watched by some 2.5 billion people worldwide. Today, it remains in use for royal weddings, and the funerals of the royal family and other notable people from British society.
Your guide is a true expert on the abbey and its history, and you'll hear fascinating stories of its construction and the events that have taken place here. This grandest of churches is the burial place for famous scientists such as Charles Darwin and Sir Isaac Newton, and the Poet's Corner section houses the remains of famous writers like Charles Dickens, Rudyard Kipling, and Geoffrey Chaucer. You'll explore every beautifully crafted corner of this vast abbey, learning all about its rich history as you go.
Changing of the Guard
A gentle stroll through leafy St. James Park brings you to the Buckingham Palace, just in time for the famous Changing of the Guards ceremony. As one of London's must-see events, crowds can get pretty big and it's not always easy to get a good view. Not to worry though, your guide knows exactly where to go so you can see the ceremony from multiple vantage points.
The King's Guard has been protecting Britain's monarch since 1660, and these elite soldiers from seven regiments are solely responsible for the King's security. This elaborate ceremony serves a practical purpose to change the morning shift (the Old Guard), to the afternoon shift (the New Guard). Though there is much pomp and fanfare, the guards primary focus is the protection of the King.
For this reason, the guards refuse to be distracted by the constant and often humorous attempts to distract them. To see this incredible parade of bands and soldiers in both red and blue outfits, your guide escorts you to more than one viewpoint as the ceremony happens.
What you get with this tour
See what people are saying
384 total reviews
Leave a reviewAnita Kassel
Colette Lee
David Walters
Margaret was a wealth of knowledge. The tour was very informative and enjoyable. We appreciated her sense of humor too
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
We recommend bringing a bottle of water with you and wearing a pair of comfortable shoes since this is a walking tour.
Can I take pictures in Westminster Abbey?
Yes! You are now allowed to take non-commercial photography inside Westminster Abbey. Videos and flash photography are not allowed, nor is any kind of photography allowed during a service.
Does this tour include pick up from your hotel?
Transport isn't included with this tour, but it's very easy to get here on the tube or by taxi. Your guide will be at the meeting point listed on your confirmation voucher.
Can I bring a backpack?
Small bags and backpacks are allowed, but they will be searched upon entry to Westminster.
What to bring?
We recommend bringing a bottle of water with you and wearing a pair of comfortable shoes since this is a walking tour.
How much walking is involved in this tour?
Although this tour doesn't cover a large distance or any difficult terrain, you will walking or standing for the majority of the 3 hours.
Does this tour guarantee seeing the Changing of the Guard?
No. The Changing of the Guard ceremony happens every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday throughout the year. There are also times where the changing of the Guard will not go ahead on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays without prior notice and this is due to last minute decision made by the palace, local authorities or bad weather.
You may also like
Free Cancellation Skip the Line
London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London
Explore Buckingham Palace, see the Crown Jewels, take a river cruise on the Thames, and more!
Free Cancellation Guided Tour
Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London
Dive into British history at London's famous fortress and enjoy a flexible ticket to a Thames Cruise
Free Cancellation Exclusive Access
Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters
Witness a centuries-old tradition before seeing the crown jewels with fewer crowds
Free Cancellation New Tour
Small Group Day Tour of Bath, Windsor Castle, and Stonehenge from London
Visit Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London in just one day
Free Cancellation New Tour
Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters
Hear legends from the Guardians of the Tower of London before your full tour of the fortress
Free Cancellation New Tour
Skip the Line Churchill's War Rooms and Westminster Small Group Tour
Explore the preserved Secret Bunkers in London, where D-Day and the fall of Hitler were planned
Free Cancellation New Tour
Kensington Gardens tour with Royal High Tea
Enjoy an intimate tour of Kensington Palace Gardens that ends with traditional English High Tea
Day Trip New Tour
From London: The Enchanting Cotswolds Village Tour with Lunch
Explore Idyllic Burford and Stow-on-the-Wold and enjoy a two-course lunch in Bibury
From London: Cotswolds Day trip to Bibury, Burford, and Burton-on-the-Water
Explore the timeless charm of the English countryside in a small group
Free Cancellation New Tour
The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour
Get rare summer access to the royal State Rooms, only open a few weeks each year!
Free Cancellation New Tour
British Museum Guided Tour in London
Admire this world-famous historic collection with the help of an expert guide
Free Cancellation New Tour
Changing of the Guard Small Group Walking Tour in London
Witness the world-famous ceremony while learning about the orgins of this iconic routine
Exclusive Access Transportation Included
Exclusive Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Guided Tour
Touch the historic stones at sunrise or sunset and explore the charm of Windsor town
Day Trip Exclusive Access
Exclusive Inner Circle Stonehenge Access, Lacock Village, and Bath
Enjoy transportation to and from London and a chance to eat at a 13th century Inn in Lacock
Free Cancellation
London: Ultimate Speedboat Adventure
Experience Big Ben, Tower Bridge & More in Thrilling Fashion with a Small Group
Free Cancellation Private Tour
Private Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard Tour
Dive deep into London's history at the famous church before seeing Buckingham Palace
New Tour Private Tour
Private Tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London
Delve into the church's architectural brilliance and sacred stories with your personal guide
New Tour Private Tour
Private London Highlights Black Cab Sightseeing Tour
Zip through London’s captivating streets as you admire Westminster, Big Ben, Hide Park and more
Guided Tour Private Tour
Private Tour of the National Gallery in London
Admire masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Sunflowers and Monet's Water Lilies with a dedicated guide
Exclusive Access Guided Tour
Tower of London Historic "Closing Ceremony" After Hours Tour
Join this exclusive tour after the crowds have left and witness the Tower's rare closing ceremony
Day Trip New Tour
Windsor, Stonehenge, & Bath Full-Day Tour with Lacock Pub Lunch from London
Enjoy coach travel, early entry to Windsor Castle, and a pub lunch on this action-packed day trip
Free Cancellation New Tour
London: East End Food Tour in a Small Group
Check Brick Lane, Shoreditch and Spitalfields off your bucket list with local food tastings
New Tour Private Tour
Private Victoria and Albert Museum Highlights Tour
Marvel at Raphael’s Cartoons, historic fashion trends, and treasures of the Jewellery Gallery
Free Cancellation Private Tour
Private Tower of London Tour
Follow your private guide through London's most infamous fortress
Private Tour Skip the Line
Private Tour of the Tate Modern in London
Immerse yourself in world-class modern art, from Picasso to Warhol, with a dedicated private guide
Free Cancellation New Tour
Essential London Sights by E-Bike Small Group Tour
Cycle through classic landmarks, from Big Ben to Buckingham Palace
Free Cancellation New Tour
Harry Potter Studio & Oxford from London: Magic Behind the Scenes
Roam the streets of Oxford, visit Hogwarts Castle, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express!
Free Cancellation New Tour
Morning Food Tour Through Borough Market and London
Taste local delicacies, explore the neighborhood near the iconic Bridge, and end with a cold pint
Free Cancellation New Tour
Royal Hampton Court Palace Tour with Afternoon Tea
Immerse yourself in regal history as you tour the palace grounds and experience afternoon tea
Day Trip New Tour
Full-Day Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London
Journey back in time to experience the mysteries of ancient stones and historic Roman baths
Free Cancellation New Tour
Royal London Bike Tour with Thames River Cruise
Ride by Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, and more in the heart of the city
Day Trip New Tour
Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & White Cliffs Full Day Tour From London
Experience England’s Royal History, Spiritual Heritage, and Iconic Landscapes in One Day
Guided Tour New Tour
Premium Westminster Abbey Tour with Breakfast and London Eye
Avoid lines and witness the storied sites of royal ceremonies, then soar above the London skyline
Private Tour Transportation Included
Private Black Cab Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London
See London’s landmarks in comfort with skip-the-line entry and a private black cab experience
Day Trip New Tour
From London: Full-Day Stonehenge and Avebury Small Group Tour
Experience mysterious stone circles and quaint villages with an expert guide
Free Cancellation New Tour
From London: Harry Potter Studios Tour in a Small Group with Pickup
Join us to experience the official movie sets and props that brought the beloved film saga to life!
Family Friendly New Tour
Private Harry Potter Black Cab Tour Through London
See where the magic of Harry Potter came to life as you drive to Gringotts Wizarding Bank and stroll
Free Cancellation Private Tour
Private London in a Day Tour
Discover London's deep history at Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, and the Changing of the Guard
Day Trip Transportation Included
From London: Cotswolds and Oxford Small Group Day-trip with Lunch
Visit two unforgettable English destinations that have captivated poets and artists
Free Cancellation New Tour
Soho Eats: A Delicious Evening Walking Tour
Uncover the history of rock-n-roll in London while sampling delicious local food
Private Tour Transportation Included
Private Windsor Castle Tour from London
Experience royal splendor and visit Eton College on this day trip from London
Family Friendly Private Tour
British Museum Private Guided Tour
Admire the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian Mummies, and the Parthenon Sculptures with a passionate guide
Free Cancellation New Tour
London by Bike Tour: River Thames and Borough Market
Cycle through iconic landmarks like The Globe Theatre and Tower Bridge
