London: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Imagine walking through the heart of London’s historic sites, joining the crowd for a colorful, ceremonial spectacle. For around $30, you can spend roughly 105 minutes with a knowledgeable guide exploring the Changing of the Guard ceremony in detail. Starting just outside the Criterion Theatre at Piccadilly Circus, this tour takes you past Pall Mall, Waterloo Place, and into St. James’s Park, before arriving at the main event—watching the guards march to Buckingham Palace.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it makes a classic London tradition. First, the guided commentary offers insights that you simply won’t pick up on your own, like the history behind the guards, the royal parks, and the military’s role in British life. Second, standing alongside the guards as they march, sometimes to lively bands, adds a sense of participation and excitement missing from just viewing the ceremony from a distance. On the downside, the tour does involve a fair amount of walking—about four minutes of steady march—so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want a closer, more engaging experience of the Changing of the Guard without the hassle of trying to see it on your own from crowded, distant viewpoints. Families, history buffs, or anyone eager for a lively introduction to London’s royal traditions will find it especially worthwhile. Keep in mind, the tour excludes the section inside Buckingham Palace itself, so if you’ve got your heart set on that, you’ll need to plan separately.

Key Points

In-Depth Guided Experience: Learn the stories behind the ceremony from an enthusiastic guide.
Prime Viewing Spots: Get to the best angles for photos and enjoy the march up close.
Historical Context: Discover the significance of the royal parks, military history, and royal ceremonies.
Authentic Atmosphere: March alongside the guards, feel part of the tradition.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Limited Access: Does not include entry into Buckingham Palace or its courtyard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

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Starting Point and First Impressions

Your adventure begins outside the Criterion Theatre, where a friendly guide greets you next to the iconic Statue of Eros in Piccadilly Circus. This lively spot sets the tone—you’re about to step into a quintessentially British experience. The guide kicks things off with a quick overview of what you’ll see and do, giving you a sense of what to expect during the next 105 minutes.

From here, the tour heads toward The Mall, passing Pall Mall and Waterloo Place. These areas are steeped in history, with monuments to British royals and generals. We loved the way the guide seamlessly intertwined stories of the Duke of Wellington and the British Army, making the walk not just sightseeing but an educational jaunt.

Exploring the Royal Parks and Monuments

Once on The Mall, you’ll enjoy views of St. James’s Park, one of the most beautiful and oldest royal parks in London. The area is often buzzing with visitors and locals alike, adding a lively backdrop to your history lesson. You might spot the Horse Guards Parade, where soldiers occasionally practice or march past.

As you approach St. James’s Palace, the highlight is watching the inspection of the guards. This is where the foot soldiers emerge, line up, and get their uniforms checked—an authentic, unvarnished look at military discipline. The march to Buckingham Palace, often with music, is a stirring sight, and if you’re lucky, the band might even play a tune that gets everyone tapping their feet.

Participating in the Ceremony

One of the most memorable parts of the tour is marching in step with the guards as they leave St. James’s Palace. It creates a real sense of connection, as you’re not just observing but actively participating in a tradition that has lasted centuries. When the New Guard arrives from Wellington Barracks, the scene is lively, especially when a ceremonial band accompanies them.

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The Queen’s Guard and Photo Opportunities

Next, the group heads to a raised platform for a clear view of Buckingham Palace. Here, you can snap photos of the guards in their full regalia, capturing the iconic bearskin hats and bright red coats. The tour culminates with the band playing in the palace courtyard, a fitting end to this vibrant display of British pageantry.

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Potential Variations and Considerations

It’s worth noting that the itinerary can vary, especially on Sundays when the army tests a slightly different “Parade” version of the ceremony. The tour doesn’t include the inside of Buckingham Palace, which requires arriving much earlier and paying additional fees. This restriction is due to crowd sizes, but the tour does a terrific job of giving a close-up view from the outside.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers rave about their guides. Commenters like Mario and Sabrina emphasize guides’ knowledge and humor: “David was an excellent guide. Knows his craft. Made it entertaining,” and “Emily was amazing! She was fun and informational.” This consistent praise underlines that a friendly, well-informed guide makes all the difference in transforming a standard spectacle into a memorable experience.

Travelers also appreciate the value for money, with some noting how much better the experience feels with a guide leading the way. The views of the procession are often described as fantastic, especially when guides advise where to stand for the best photos. Several reviews mention how the tour brings the ceremony to life, offering insights not available to those watching alone.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Wear comfortable shoes: The walking involved is about 4-5 minutes of steady march, and you’ll be on your feet for most of the tour.
Arrive on time: The tour starts promptly, and late arrivals can’t join afterward.
Bring a camera: The views from the raised platforms are prime for photos.
Expect a lively, sometimes crowded scene: The area around Buckingham Palace is busy, so patience and a good spotter are helpful.
Not suitable for those with walking difficulties: The tour involves standing and marching at times.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone who enjoys immersive, lively explanations of British traditions. If you’re looking to avoid the confusion of trying to see the ceremony unaided or want insider tips on the best viewpoints, this guided walk is a perfect choice.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

For just under $30, this tour offers immersive insights into one of London’s most iconic ceremonies. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just a crowd-watching event. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of the royal guards, the significance of the marches, and the story behind the architecture and monuments.

While it doesn’t include inside access to Buckingham Palace, the close-up views and participatory element—marching alongside the guards—give it a special charm. The tour’s pace and structure suit those who enjoy learning on the go and capturing memorable photos without the hassle of navigating crowded streets alone.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a fun, educational, and interactive way to enjoy London’s royal traditions. If you’re a history buff, a lover of ceremonies, or just curious about royal customs, this tour will fit the bill nicely.

FAQ

Does the tour include inside Buckingham Palace?
No, it does not. The tour focuses on outside views and the ceremony’s progression, as inside access requires a separate, early-arrival ticket and is not feasible during this tour.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 105 minutes, including walking, viewing, and commentary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Criterion Theatre near Piccadilly Circus and ends back at the same location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most children who can walk comfortably and stay engaged should enjoy it, especially given the energetic guides and lively scenes. However, it involves some marching and standing, so very young or less mobile children might find it challenging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential. Also, a camera or smartphone for photos.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour conducted in languages other than English?
No, it is only offered in English.

Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted, except guide dogs.

What happens if the ceremony changes?
The guide will adapt the itinerary to ensure you get the best experience possible, especially considering occasional variations on Sundays.

Is there a group size limit?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is conducted in a small-group setting, ensuring personalized attention.

In essence, this guided walk offers a well-rounded, engaging look at a world-famous ceremony. It combines history, tradition, and lively commentary, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting an authentic, memorable experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.