Private Changing of the Guard and Westminster Tour

A guided tour including Westminster Abbey

On this London walking tour, you'll explore Westminster and see the Changing of the Guard with a local guide. Your guide will take you to a good viewing point to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and you'll have time to take lots of photos as your guide explains the history and traditions behind the event.

You'll then walk around the Westminster area, pass by the prime minister's residence at 10 Downing Street, see Big Ben and Buckingham Palace and stroll along Whitehall. At Westminster Abbey, you'll get insights into its long history, from the coronation of William the Conqueror here in 1066 to the wedding of William and Catherine – the Prince and Princess of Wales and future king and queen.

What's included

• Guide services
• Headsets
• Skip-the-line admission to Westminster Abbey

What's not included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Tips

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 note that Westminster Abbey is a working church and may close for special services at short notice.

      The Changing of the Guard does not operate in heavy rain and will be replaced with an extended walking tour.

      This tour cannot accommodate pushchairs or prams.

      You may experience delays in passing the mandatory security checks when entering the venues.

      To avoid disruptions or possible denied admission, Large purses, bags or backpacks are not allowed, and there are no cloakroom facilities at the Abbey to store the luggage.

      Please note that the changing of the guards schedule may change and you will see either the Foot Guards or the Horse Guards on different dates.

      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: 2 hours 30 minutes

      
      

      Stop at: Westminster Abbey

      Admission ticket included

      Explore one of the world’s great churches, the site of royal coronations, and one of the most significant structures in British history in Westminster Abbey. This incredible 700-year-old building is a must-see for any visitor to London. It has welcomed Kings, Queens and statesmen, royal weddings, and state funerals. You will feel like British royalty as you enjoy a tour led by our expert local guide who will shed light on the most important and fascinating aspects of this great monument such as the Coronation Chair, the burial place of 17 British monarchs, and many of Britain’s greatest poets who lie in Poet’s Corner
      
      
      

    1 hour 30 minutes

    
    

    Stop at: Changing of the Guard

    Free admission

    Your guide will lead you to the Changing of the Guards. This world-famous ceremony takes place either at Buckingham Palace or at Horse Guards Parade, depending on the day. You’ll be in prime position to enjoy the best views at this crowded event. Enjoy commentary regarding the history and pageantry behind the ceremony. See the Queen’s Foot Guards drenched in their red tunics and unmistakable bearskin hats, march to Buckingham Palace together with the military band or the Household Cavalry. (Please be aware that the guard’s parade will not take place in the event of heavy rain).

    
    

    1 hour

    
    

    Location

    Departure point

    Buckingham Palace, Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1A 1AA

    If you have booked the Buckingham Palace ticket upgrade, please make your way in front of the Queens Gallery at Buckingham Palace. Please note that admission to the Buckingham Palace will be at 12:30. Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before your admission time.

    
    

    Departure point

    Wogen Group Ltd, The Sanctuary 4, London, SW1P 3JS

    Meet your guide at Westminster Abbey at 09:15. Your guide will be holding a City Wonders sign. Look for the tall marble and stone column opposite the west entrance of Westminster Abbey. You will find a figure of St George slaying a dragon on the top of the tall marble.

    
    

    Departure point

    Wogen Group Ltd, Wogen Group Ltd, The Sanctuary 4, London, SW1P 3JS

    
    

    End point

    Buckingham Palace, London, SW1A 1AA