Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour

Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour: A Detailed Review

When visiting London, experiencing the Changing of the Guard is often at the top of many travelers’ wish list. This tour offers an engaging way to witness one of Britain’s most iconic ceremonies, combined with a stroll through Royal Westminster and its surrounding landmarks. Priced at $24.79 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, this guided experience promises a blend of spectacular sights, insightful stories, and insider tips.

What sets this tour apart? First, the expert guides — many reviewers praise guides like John, Peter, and Alan for their historical knowledge, humorous anecdotes, and perfect positioning to catch the best guard-changing moments. Second, the carefully chosen viewpoints ensure you’ll get great photos without the hassle of fighting crowds or missing the action.

A possible consideration is the pace of the walk, which can be brisk, especially if you’re eager to see multiple guard changes or take plenty of photos. Also, since the ceremony is subject to British Army schedules and weather conditions, it’s worth being flexible or booking on a day with good weather.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick glance — if you love history, enjoy lively guides, and prefer having someone expertly manage the timing and viewing spots, this experience is well worth considering. It’s perfect for first-timers in London or anyone wanting a structured, informative way to see must-see royal sights.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, humorous, and skilled at positioning you for the best views.
• Prime Viewing Spots: Carefully curated locations for photos and viewing, saving you time and frustration.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: Includes Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Downing Street, and Trafalgar Square.
• Flexible Schedule: Different guard ceremonies depending on the day, with options for changing of the Guard or Horse Guards Parade.
• Affordable Value: At under $25, it offers a lot of insights and memorable moments.
• Limited Walking: Expect a brisk pace, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

The tour begins at the Colicci Ritz Corner near Green Park, centrally located and easy to access via public transportation. Meeting at Stop H, London W1J 9DZ around 10:00 am, you’ll join a group capped at 35 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging. The tour ends at a different location, allowing for easy continuation of your day elsewhere in London.

The $24.79 price includes a guided walking tour with an expert guide, but it doesn’t include food, drinks, or inside visits to attractions. You’ll want to plan for some extra time afterward to explore these sites or grab a bite.

The First Stop: Changing of the Guard & Royal London

The tour kicks off with a stroll through Royal London, passing notable sites like St. James’ Palace, Clarence House, and Buckingham Palace. The highlight is witnessing the Changing of the Guard, which can occur at Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade, depending on the schedule. Many reviews mention guides like Peter and Alan doing a fantastic job of positioning the group for the best views and narrating the ceremony’s details.

Reviewers consistently highlight guides’ ability to find the perfect vantage points: “He did a wonderful job of positioning us in just the right spots,” says Phillip. The process of watching Queen’s footguards march and the Household Cavalry on horseback is a spectacle, and with a guide’s help, you’ll find yourself close enough to see the intricate uniform details and hear the commands clearly.

The first part finishes with a leisurely walk through St. James’ Royal Park, giving you a moment to soak in the royal atmosphere and take some photos.

The Second Stop: Westminster Sights

Next, you’ll head through historic Westminster, passing by Churchill’s War Rooms (while you don’t go inside, the exterior view adds context). Then, your guide will point out Westminster Abbey, the site of every royal coronation since 1066, and Parliament Square with statues of figures such as Gandhi, Lincoln, and Churchill. Here, you’ll get close-up views of Big Ben and the Gothic architecture of Parliament.

Many guests comment on how the guide’s stories made the history come alive — “He provided a lot of interesting facts that are easy to miss otherwise,” says gelena_k. Seeing 10 Downing Street from afar is a thrill, even if you can’t go inside, and the Queen’s Guard with their impressive bearskin hats makes for excellent photo moments.

You also get the chance to observe Horse Guards Parade, where the mounted guards and the ornate Horse Guards building make for memorable sights. The guide’s insights often include fun facts like the significance of the guards’ hats and the changing of the guard’s timing.

The Final Stop: Trafalgar Square

Concluding at Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s Column, the tour wraps up with a chance to explore this lively hub of London. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the morning’s sights, take photos, or continue your adventure. “It was a really good tour,” one reviewer notes, “and we learned a lot about the changing of the guard and royal traditions.”

What Travelers Love and What to Consider

Many reviews emphasize the guides’ friendliness, humor, and knowledge. “Alan was tremendous — very informative, with a sense of humor,” says Valerium_P. Guests appreciate the timing accuracy — guides like Harry and John are skilled at getting the group into the best positions despite crowds.

However, some mention the pace can be quick, and you’ll need comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves a brisk walk across several royal and historic sites. Also, since the changing of the guard is scheduled on specific days, it’s wise to plan your tour date accordingly.

Weather can impact the ceremony; if it’s too rainy or windy, the guard change might be canceled or moved indoors, but guides will often substitute with nearby events like the Horse Guards Parade.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

• Booking in advance is recommended — most travelers book about three weeks ahead.
• The meeting point is central and accessible via public transportation, making it easy to include in a busy sightseeing day.
• Brisk pace; wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk quickly between sightlines and viewpoints.
• The tour does not include inside visits— think of it as a sightseeing walk with commentary. If you want to explore inside Westminster Abbey or Buckingham Palace, plan for separate tickets.
• Weather considerations — check the forecast, and keep an eye on the schedule for guard ceremonies, which can change due to weather or operational reasons.
• Photographers will love the professionally chosen vantage points, often recommended by guides for the best shots.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided tour offers a balanced mix of sights, stories, and insider tips — making it ideal for first-time visitors who want a solid overview without the stress of navigating on their own. It’s especially perfect for those eager to see the Changing of the Guard with expert guidance, ensuring you don’t miss the best moments or get caught in the crowd.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and want a structured, engaging experience will find this tour a worthwhile investment. If you’re traveling with family, especially kids, the lively storytelling and prime photo spots will keep everyone entertained.

However, if your main focus is inside tours of royal palaces or a more leisurely pace, you might want to supplement this experience with additional visits.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with walking difficulties?
Because the tour involves walking briskly between sites and standing for the guard change, it’s not recommended for those with walking difficulties.

Does the tour include inside visits to Buckingham Palace or Westminster Abbey?
No, the tour focuses on outside viewing and storytelling. Inside visits require separate tickets.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard every day?
No, the ceremony occurs on specific days — Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at Buckingham Palace, and Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at Horse Guards Parade.

What if the weather is bad?
Bad weather might cancel the guard ceremony, but guides will try to arrange watching the Horse Guards Parade instead. The tour is designed to be flexible.

How early should I book?
Booking about 3 weeks in advance is common, especially during busy travel seasons, to secure a spot.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the guided walking experience and expert narration. It does not include entrance fees or food and drinks.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, with some variation depending on the schedule and pace.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to witness London’s regal traditions and see key landmarks with the guidance of knowledgeable and lively guides, this tour offers excellent value. Its focus on prime viewing spots, combined with engaging commentary, makes it perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a structured way to soak in the city’s royal atmosphere.

If you’re interested in the Changing of the Guard, Westminster’s historic sites, and striking photo opportunities, this experience will serve you well. It offers a balanced mix of storytelling, sightseeing, and local insights, making your visit to London both memorable and hassle-free.

Travelers who enjoy a fast-paced, well-organized tour with a friendly guide will especially appreciate how this experience maximizes your sightseeing time without sacrificing quality. Just remember to book ahead, dress comfortably, and keep your camera ready — this tour is full of picture-perfect moments.

Note: Always verify the schedule of the guard ceremonies closer to your visit, as they can be subject to change or cancellation due to weather or operational reasons.