Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour

Experience the Majesty of Buckingham Palace with a Guided Tour and Changing of the Guard

If you’re visiting London and want a blend of iconic sights, history, and regal flair, the Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour is a solid choice. Priced at around $99.38 per person, this 2.5-hour experience takes you from St. James’s Park to the gates of the Queen’s official residence, with plenty of photo-worthy moments and insider stories. The tour offers a chance to see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, explore the luxurious State Rooms (when open), and learn about the Royal Family through expert guides and audio commentary.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines both external and internal views of the Palace, giving a well-rounded sense of royal life. The outdoor segments, especially the Changing of the Guard, are vibrant displays of tradition and precision. Inside, the self-guided exploration of the State Rooms reveals stunning chandeliers, fine artworks, and elegant furnishings that you might not get to see on your own.

A potential consideration is that the tour schedule is subject to change—weather can cancel the Changing of the Guard, and the palace interior is only open for two months each year (August and September). Also, the pace can be brisk, especially when guides rush through crowded spaces, which some reviews mention. Still, this tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of guided insight and independent exploration, and who are flexible with scheduling.

If you love history, architecture, and royal traditions, you’ll find this experience both enriching and visually spectacular. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of London’s royal landmarks, as well as those who enjoy a guided context that makes the sights more meaningful.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines outdoor ceremonies, a walk through St. James’s Park, and interior access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary.
• Limited palace access: The State Rooms are only open for two months each year, which makes timing important.
• Weather dependency: The Changing of the Guard can be canceled due to rain or scheduling, replaced with a walking tour.
• Self-guided interior tour: The inside of the Palace is explored at your own pace with an audio guide, but no photos inside.
• Good value: Includes entrance, guided commentary, and the new 2025 exhibition, making it a well-rounded package.

A Deep Dive into the Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard Tour

Starting Point and the Walk Through St. James’s Park

The tour kicks off at a central London location—near the Duke of York Column—making it easy to find with clear instructions. We appreciate the convenience of the meeting point, which is close to public transportation, saving us time and hassle. From there, your guide leads you through St. James’s Park, one of London’s prettiest green spaces. As you stroll past the lush lawns, blooming flowerbeds, and scenic pond, your guide shares tidbits about the park’s history and significance.

This initial walk is just enough time to settle into the pace and get some fresh air before heading towards Buckingham Palace. It’s a peaceful, scenic start that sets the tone for the grandeur ahead.

Watching the Changing of the Guard

The highlight for many is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place outside Buckingham Palace. You’ll stop at a prime viewing spot, and if the schedule holds, you’ll witness this colorful spectacle of precision and tradition. Vivid red and bearskin hats stand out against the palace backdrop, as guards march rhythmically, drums beat, and the ceremony unfolds with military discipline.

According to reviews, this is a true spectacle—one reviewer called it “a colorful and traditional performance.” However, weather can play spoilsport; heavy rain or an early reschedule can mean you miss out on the guards and get a walking tour instead. One reviewer noted, “Due to rain, no Changing of the Guard, but the walking tour of Westminster was still pleasant.” So, flexibility is key.

Inside Buckingham Palace: The State Rooms

When the Palace is open (August and September), this portion becomes a major highlight. For a fee of included in the tour, you gain entry to the State Rooms—the lavish chambers used for official functions and receptions. We loved the way the audio guide added context to what we saw: sparkling chandeliers, grand artworks, and exquisite furniture.

This is where the tour really shines. The rooms are decorated with priceless art, historic furnishings, and shimmering ornaments. One reviewer described it as “an extraordinary look into an exquisite building,” emphasizing the luxuriousness. It’s a self-guided experience, which means you can linger in rooms that pique your interest, but be warned—crowds can be dense, and security lines long. No photos inside, which can be frustrating, but the visual feast makes up for it.

The Kings Tour Artists Exhibition

Adding a new dimension for 2025, the Kings Tour Artists Exhibition is hosted in the Palace’s Ballroom. It features over 70 artworks personally selected by King Charles III from the Royal Collection. This intimate collection offers a rare glimpse into the monarch’s artistic tastes. It’s a special addition that enriches the palace visit, especially if you’re interested in art.

End of the Tour & Farewell

The tour concludes outside the Palace, where you can take some final photos or simply enjoy the view. The guide will answer questions and help you navigate your next steps. Many reviewers appreciated guides like Kevin, who made the tour engaging and informative, and Katarina, whose wit and charm stood out.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides and Engaging Commentary

One of the most praised aspects is the expert guides, such as Katarina and Michael, who share stories with humor and clarity. They help bring history alive, making the experience more than just a sightseeing walk. For example, Michael’s detailed knowledge had everyone feeling like insiders on royal secrets—”very well done,” as one reviewer put it.

Unique Access to the Palace’s Interior

Not many tours include interior access to the State Rooms, and the fact that they are only open for two months per year makes this a rare opportunity. Enthusiasts of architecture and art will love seeing the luxurious decor up close, even if the crowds can be intense.

Authentic Royal Tradition

Watching the Changing of the Guard is a quintessentially British experience. When scheduled, it offers a vibrant display of pageantry and military precision, making it a photo-worthy highlight. Some reviews describe this as “a colorful, traditional performance,” which captures the atmosphere perfectly.

Flexibility and Extra Content

The added feature of the 2025 Artists Exhibition is a thoughtful touch, elevating the standard palace experience. Plus, the tour’s flexible structure, with guided outdoor segments and self-guided interior exploration, suits travelers who appreciate a mix of guided insight and personal discovery.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Weather remains the biggest wildcard. Heavy rain or an early schedule change can mean the Changing of the Guard is canceled, replaced with a walking tour. This might disappoint those hoping for a full ceremonial experience.

Plus, the palace interior is only accessible during two months each year—August and September—making timing crucial. Outside these months, the tour focuses mainly on external sights and the outdoor ceremony.

The pace can feel rushed, especially if guides move quickly to cover all points of interest. Some reviews mention that the guide walked too fast or that rooms are crowded, which can diminish the experience for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded look at Buckingham Palace with knowledgeable guides and a chance to see the Changing of the Guard. It’s ideal for those flexible on timing and weather, and who enjoy a blend of guided and independent exploration. If you’re keen to see the palace’s interior during the open months, booking in August or September is essential.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a mix of outdoor spectacle, scenic walks, and inside access that makes it a compelling choice for visitors eager to connect with British royal traditions. The inclusion of the new 2025 art exhibition adds a layer of exclusivity and cultural insight. While weather and schedule can vary, the guides’ expertise and the chance to see the Palace’s luxurious interior give this experience a good value for its price.

If you love history, art, and pomp, and are comfortable with some flexibility, this tour will likely meet your expectations. For travelers who value detailed commentary and insider stories, the guided aspect makes it especially worthwhile. Just remember to check the schedule and prepare for possible weather changes—London’s unpredictable climate is part of the adventure.

FAQ

Is the Changing of the Guard always included?
No, the schedule can change depending on the day, weather, or special events. When it’s canceled, you’ll enjoy a walking tour of Westminster instead.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including outdoor and interior segments.

Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?
No, photography is not permitted inside the State Rooms, but you can take pictures outside and of the exterior.

What if it rains on the day of the tour?
Heavy rain might lead to the cancellation of the Changing of the Guard, replaced by a walk around Westminster. The tour is still enjoyable, but you’ll miss the ceremonial highlight.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 30 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and guides attentive.

Do I need to book months in advance?
Booking about 60 days ahead is typical, especially if you want to visit during the palace’s open months.

Are there accessibility options for visitors with mobility challenges?
While some reviews mention arranging wheelchair access separately, specific details are limited. It’s advisable to contact the provider if you have special requirements.

Overall, this tour offers a balanced look at London’s royal iconography, with knowledgeable guides, insider art, and the chance to witness a proud tradition. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of guided storytelling and independent exploration, and who are flexible with weather and schedules.