Recent Searches
Clear
Close

Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour

star-4.5220 Reviews
|
Badge of Excellence
|
Greater London, United Kingdom
Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour
See More
See More
Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour
The Changing of Guard
The Changing of Guard
See More
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out

From $22.49

Lowest Price Guarantee

Select Date and Travelers

Number of travelers
1 Adult2 Adults3 Adults4 Adults5 Adults6 Adults7 Adults8 Adults9 Adults10 Adults11 Adults12 Adults13 Adults14 Adults15 Adults0 Children1 Child2 Children3 Children4 Children5 Children6 Children7 Children8 Children9 Children10 Children11 Children12 Children13 Children14 Children15 Children0 Infants1 Infant2 Infants3 Infants4 Infants5 Infants6 Infants7 Infants8 Infants9 Infants10 Infants11 Infants12 Infants13 Infants14 Infants15 Infants
Free cancellation
Up to 24 hours in advance. Learn more
Loading available options...
Safety measures
icon1 hour 30 minutes  (approx.)
iconOffered in: English
Good for avoiding crowds

Explore our promoted experiences

Operators have paid Viator more to have their experiences featured here

Overview

No visit to England would be complete without experiencing quintessential traditions such as the Changing of the Guard. See British culture come to life from select prime vantage points. In a small group limited to 20, observe the Queen’s iconic foot guards, clad in red tunics and bearskin hats, and watch the household cavalry put on an impressive display. Follow history-rich guide commentary with ease using a headset.
  • Watch the royal performance from select vantage points only known to experts
  • Witness the Queen’s iconic foot soldiers clad in red tunics and bearskin hats
  • Admire the precision and gleaming coats of the household cavalry
  • Listen to history-rich commentary with ease using a personal headset
Saved to wishlist!

From $22.49

Lowest Price Guarantee
Book Now
Expert, English-speaking tour guide
Small groups of 20 people or fewer
Headsets when appropriate
Gratuities
Hotel pick-up/drop-off
Duke of York Monument , St. James's, London SW1Y 5AJ, UK
Open in Google Maps

Meeting Point: By the Duke of York Column, Waterloo Place, 9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AJ. This is the tall column with a statue on top. Arriving by tube: Take the tube to Piccadilly Circus and take exit No. 3 onto Regent Street/St James's. Walk south down Regent Street towards St James's Park (do not walk north towards Oxford Street). Waterloo Place is at the end of Regent Street. You will see the tall column with a statue on top. You can also arrive via Charing Cross Station. Walk down the Mall towards Buckingham Palace, you will see the statue on your right at the top of some steps.

Spur Road , Spur Rd, London SW1A 1AA, UK
Open in Google Maps

Outside Buckingham Palace

Your regal tour begins at a central location, where you 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 Queen’s foot soldiers; and, move quickly between vantage points in a small group of only 15 people.

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 canceled, customers still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade.
Itinerary
Stop At:  
Changing of the Guard
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 Queen’s foot soldiers; and, move quickly between vantage points in a small group of only 15 people. 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.
... MoreLess
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Admission Ticket Included
Pass By:  
Buckingham Palace
Passing by
... MoreLess
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • 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.
  • Please note weather is very changeable in London, please ensure you have rainproof clothing
  • Please note that the changing of the guard schedule may change and on different dates we will see either footguards or horseguards
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Near public transportation
  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
  • Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday and Thursday, you’ll experience the change of the Household Cavalry.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
  • OPERATED BY City Wonders UK
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Learn more about cancellations.

The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What is the policy on face masks and attendee health during Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour?
A:The policies on face masks and attendee health are:

  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
See all safety measures taken by Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour.
Q:
What is the social distancing policy during Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour?
A:The policy on social distancing is:

  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
See all safety measures taken by Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour.

Traveler Photos

See More
See More

Traveler Tips

  • "Some running and rushing was required but it was definitely worth it." See review
  • "We would highly recommend attending on Sundays since you can see both the horse guards changing, as well as, the foot soldiers." See review
  • "One note, if you have a small child or one who doesn't like adult-sized earbuds, bring a pair of kid headphones; regular headphones will connect to the guide's microphone system." See review

Reviews

4.5
star-4.5
220 Reviews
5 stars
172
4 stars
15
3 stars
10
2 stars
8
1 star
15

Reviews by Viator travelers

We perform checks on reviews

Showing 1-10 of 220 reviews
star-1
Complete waste of money! Do it on your own!
Luis_G
, Jun 2022
We had a horrible guide who made our tour uninteresting and slow. We recommend you go on your own and research whatever information you feel like learning before. A complete waste of money.
... MoreLess
star-5
Loved This Tour!
Kelcey_B
, Jun 2022
Absolutely loved this tour! Natalie was our guide and she did a great job at finding us the best spots to enjoy the Changing of the Guard ceremony. I had a tough time deciding between this tour and another Changing of the Guard tour on Viator that was longer, but I’m glad I went with this one because it was perfect timing and just the right amount of walking. I do want to note for other people looking at this tour that you won’t be right in front of Buckingham, but you will be across the street where you can take an awesome picture and then you stop a few other places along the route to get the best view of the guards. I hope I can do this tour again in my lifetime!
... MoreLess
star-3
Average
Leslie_S
, Jun 2022
It was very nice to see this but it can be done without the guide, it didn’t seem to be any extra knowledge to be learned by joining a tour vs just going on your own and learning about the ceremony via parliament website
... MoreLess
1 traveler found this review helpful
star-5
Changing of the Guard
Rosemarie_C
, May 2022
We had an excellent experience. Our guide, Robert, was very knowledgeable about the changing of the guard and other London attractions. Even with all the Jubilee preparations around Buckingham Palace he made sure we were able to see the different stages of the guard change.
... MoreLess
star-5
Southsidesue
SUSAN_S
, May 2022
Watching the guards on horseback changing their duties. Our guide, Georgie was absolutely great. Very informative on English history.
... MoreLess
1 traveler found this review helpful
star-3
NOT "THE" Changing of the Guard
Mel_W
, May 2022
Did a great job showing us some of the changing of the guards, BUT it was not the changing of the guard that is pictured in your promotion materials. Very misleading. More like a 'bait and switch' sale.
... MoreLess
1 traveler found this review helpful
star-5
Great tour
John_G
, May 2022
Michael was knowledgable,, friendly and quite humorous. It kept the tour light and enjoyable. Let us know what to expect every step of the way
... MoreLess
star-5
Excellent Guide, very knowledgeable!
Anonymous
, May 2022
I thought changing of the guard was just at Buckingham Palace. Boy was I wrong. With our expert guide Michael we saw a total of 5 changing ceremonies. Don’t miss out, go with a local who knows where to position yourself, you will not regret it!
... MoreLess
1 traveler found this review helpful
star-3
Could have been better
Caryn_P
, Apr 2022
The day we went, it turned out that there was no changing of the guard, only changing of the horses. Whilst it was nice to see the ceremony involved, the guide didn't exactly get us to the best viewing spot (which it what we thought he would do). Our view is that he wasted so much time speaking about the Duke of York and subsequent historical figures, that by the time we arrived at the grounds, all 'front line' and good photo opportunity spots, were gone. We ended up finding our own spot.
... MoreLess
1 traveler found this review helpful
star-5
Great - worth it!
Anonymous
, Apr 2022
Great way to see Changing of the Guards! Natalie was kind, informative, and made sure we were well positioned for the events.
... MoreLess
1 traveler found this review helpful
star-5
Best tour in London!!
fiona_d
, Apr 2022
Michael was awesome - couldn’t have gotten us any closer. And not just one sighting of guards…multiple - book this tour, you won’t regret it!!
... MoreLess
star-5
Up close with the guards!
Jacqueline_L
, Apr 2022
Michael who was our guide ensured that we were up close to the guards. We managed to see 3 different stages of the changing guards 👍🏻
... MoreLess
star-2
Disappointing
sherri_m
, Apr 2022
Sadly we signed up for a changing of the foot guard but found out when we arrived they don’t do the change on Thursdays. The guide was wonderful and knowledgeable and this was not her fault. Your company should have not allowed booking for this day.
... MoreLess
2 travelers found this review helpful
star-3
Changing of the Guard
William_W
, Apr 2022
We were taken to several locations within the vicinity of Buckingham Palace and background information was shared; however, once it was evident that the changing of The Guard was not happening due to rain, the host appeared to not know how to conduct the rest of the tour. I expected greater command of knowledge and a back-up plan should rain prevent the ceremonial part of the activity.
... MoreLess
1 traveler found this review helpful
star-5
Excellent experience
Sharon_F
, Mar 2022
Our tour guide Michael was excellent. Full of interesting stories and information and very friendly and helpful. We got to see the guards changing at 3 different locations all with excellent views and really close up so great for photos and videos. We went to horse guards parade, through St. James Park, down the Mall and the ended at Buckingham Palace. Highly recommend
... MoreLess
star-5
Great guide, great tour!
Jan_S
, Mar 2022
Danny, of City Wonders, knowledge of royal history and his engaging storytelling made for a truly enjoyable tour. His tenure as a guide was beneficial as he knew the best places to stand for the three phases of the changing of the guard. We concluded our time with Danny by receiving great suggestions for other places to visit and restaurants to try.
... MoreLess
star-5
Fantastic!
Jessica_L
, Mar 2022
Richard was a phenomenal tour guide, knowledgeable, friendly and hilarious. We were brought to spots with a front row view of all of the activities with great photo and video opportunities! I am so happy that I booked this and recommend it to anyone.
... MoreLess
star-5
Richard was great.
Lisa_P
, Mar 2022
Richard was a great guide. He gave us so much information and kept the tour on track. We saw the guards from less than a foot away. It was so exciting. If not for the tour we would have missed out on so many details. When it was over he walked with us to a great pup to show us where it was. Best tour of trip
... MoreLess
star-5
Wonderful Tour Guide
Kiona_B
, Mar 2022
My tour guide Michael was amazing. He was very knowledgeable, caring, and funny. I highly recommend taking this tour and recommending Michael if possible. Thank you so much!
... MoreLess
star-5
Our guide was amazing....
Riddi_K
, Mar 2022
Our guide was amazing. Entertained children and adults! She knew exactly where to go for all the best views and photos.
... MoreLess
Why you are seeing these recommendations

Compare Similar Experiences

Current
Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour
Likely to Sell Out
Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour
star-4.5220
1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$22.49
Likely to Sell Out
Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London
star-5616
1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$24.99
Royal London And Changing of Guard - Very Small Group Tour
star-00
2 hours 35 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$56.22
Likely to Sell Out
Ultimate London Sightseeing Walking Tour
star-553
9 hours 55 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$18.74
Likely to Sell Out
The Changing of the Guard
star-313
2 hours
Free Cancellation
From
$22.11
Small Group Walking Tour of Royal London
star-53
2 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$31.24
Likely to Sell Out
March with the Guards: Changing of the Guard Tour
star-4.514
1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$23.74
Semi-Private Changing of the Guard & Westminster Highlights Tour
star-4.53
2 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$41.23
Likely to Sell Out
Private Tower of London Opening Ceremony with Changing of The Guard and Cruise
star-4.5223
4 hours
Free Cancellation
From
$86.21
Why you are seeing these recommendations

Explore Similar Things to Do

City ToursWalking ToursCultural ToursHistorical ToursWalking & Biking ToursCultural & Theme ToursTours & SightseeingLondonCity Tours - HorleyWalking Tours - HorleyCultural Tours - HorleyHistorical Tours - HorleyCity Tours - Stansted MountfitchetWalking Tours - Stansted MountfitchetCultural Tours - Stansted MountfitchetHistorical Tours - Stansted MountfitchetCity Tours - CambridgeWalking Tours - CambridgeCultural Tours - CambridgeHistorical Tours - CambridgeCategory

Attractions in London

Parliament Square Tours & TicketsNotting Hill Tours & TicketsWembley Stadium Tours & TicketsHeathrow Airport (LHR) Tours & TicketsPrince Edward Theatre Tours & TicketsWellington Arch Tours & TicketsSherlock Holmes Museum Tours & TicketsLondon Stansted Airport (STN) Tours & TicketsHandel & Hendrix in London Tours & TicketsGillian Lynne Theatre Tours & TicketsPaddington Station Tours & TicketsMansion House Tours & TicketsLondon National Theatre Tours & TicketsPiccadilly Theatre Tours & TicketsSt. James's Palace Tours & TicketsFan Museum Tours & TicketsMCC Museum Tours & TicketsWestminster Abbey Tours & TicketsMuseum of Brands Tours & TicketsLondon Natural History Museum Tours & Tickets
Why you are seeing these recommendations