Changing of the Guard Experience

Chance to see British tradition come to life at the daily ritual outside Buckingham Palace

For this small-group experience, you’ll head to Buckingham Palace to watch the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony. A local guide will tell you about the history of the age-old tradition and lead you to the best vantage points from which to watch the guards performing.

You’ll see the magnificent cavalry, watch the riders control the horses with expert precision and have a chance to photograph the iconic black-and-red attire of the Queen’s foot soldiers.

What's included

• Guide services
• Headsets when needed

What's not included

• Tips
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Accessibility

• Public transport links nearby

  
  

  Health & safety

  • Requires a moderate level of physical fitness
    
    

    Restrictions

    • Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the activity starts.
    • Comfortable footwear is recommended
      
      

      Languages spoken by guide

      English (UK)

       
      

      Additional information

      Please wear weather-appropriate clothing.

      Please note that London weather can change rapidly.

      Please note that the Changing of the Guard schedule may change, and on different dates, you will see either footguards or horse guards.

      Please note that the ceremony is subject to change due to the discretion of authorities.

      The ceremony can be cancelled due to bad weather conditions. In such situation, participants will still see the 'wet change' where the guards march, but without the usual music and parade.

      Please note that the cancellation due to bad weather is not announced until 11:00.

      This tour involves a moderate amount of walking.

      Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday and Thursday, you will see the change of the Household Cavalry.

      Please bring your ticket with you to the attraction.

      Be aware that operators may cancel for unforeseen reasons.

      You need to be 18 years or older to book or be accompanied by an adult.

      Operated by City Wonders UK

       
      

      Itinerary information

      Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

      Stop at: Changing of the Guard

      Admission ticket included

      Your regal tour begins at the Duke of York Column, located in St. James’, where you’ll greet your guide, don a personal headset, and receive a historical overview of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Many tourists make the mistake of viewing the ceremony outside of Buckingham Palace. However on this tour, handpicked vantage points ensure you get the best views of the royal tradition while listening to commentary that explains each part of the performance. Marvel at the shimmering coats of the household cavalry as their riders control the horses with expert precision; capture photographs of the iconic red and black attire of the King’s foot soldiers; and, move quickly between vantage points in a small group of only 15 people.

   
  

  1 hour 30 minutes

  
  

  Pass by: Buckingham Palace

  
  

  Your tour concludes outside of Buckingham Palace. Please note: The Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. Even when cancelled, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade.

  
  

  
  

  Location

  Departure point

  Duke of York Monument, St. James's, Waterloo Place, 9 Carlton House Terrace, London, SW1Y 5AJ

  Meet your guide at the Duke of York Column at Waterloo Place. Your guide will be holding a sign with the tour's name on it.

  
  

  End point

  Buckingham Palace, Spur Road, London, SW1A 1AA