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Private Changing of the Guard Experience

20 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 20 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
London, England

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On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Offered in: English

Overview

There are few sights more quintessentially British than the Changing of the Guard—a centuries-old ceremony where stoic red tunics, glittering brass, and the rhythmic beat of military drums transform the forecourt of Buckingham Palace into a living piece of history. On this expertly guided tour, you won’t just watch the ceremony… you’ll understand it.

Your experience begins in the elegant streets surrounding St James’s Palace, the oldest royal residence still in use in London. As the Household Division prepares to march, your guide brings to life the origins of this ritual, dating back to the 17th century when King Charles II reinstated the monarchy and formalized the guard’s responsibilities. Every step, salute, and call carries centuries of military discipline—and you’ll have front-row insight into the symbolism behind it.

From there, follow your guide through The Mall, the stunning royal boulevard , toward Buckingham Palace itself before heading to Westminster!

What's Included

  • Guide is licensed or certified
  • Lunch Lunch will need to be bought for the guide.
  • You may be required to use a bus and therefore buy Oyster Card tickets beforehand.
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Meeting and Pickup

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Pickup details

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Meeting point

London SW1A 1RD
UK

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Changing of the Guard

Experience the Changing of the Guard as you watch this spectacular sight, where your guide gets you up-close to the action.You will hear the story behind the changing of the guards, the traditions and the palaces in the district. You will hear about the King's Guard and their iconic scarlet uniforms including their distinctive bearskin hats.You will get to see the best of this military procedure which in total lasts over 1 hour. You will have plenty of time to ask your guide questions as you hear about Kings and Queens, admire the statues and see the palaces and monuments.You will see every part of the changing of the guard and its process, hearing the most intriguing tale of the Royal family.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Operated by a business

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Private Changing of the Guard Experience?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-192738P1

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
20 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 20 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
20
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Guide is licensed or certified
  • LunchLunch will need to be bought for the guide.
  • You may be required to use a bus and therefore buy Oyster Card tickets beforehand.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Operated by a business

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Free Cancellation

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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST).

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