Private Changing of the Guard Experience
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.
Meeting and Pickup
London SW1A 1RD
UK
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
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
Book Online
Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free
Changing of the Guard
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?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-192738P1
Traveler Photos




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
Additional Info
Similar Tours & Activities

On this walking tour we will discover the rich music history of London and see the places within it that shaped the music we know...
$29.16

Discover London’s most iconic sights with The Royal London Experience, a guided journey through the city’s royal, historic, and cultural treasures. From the grandeur of...
$182.65

This British History English Course in London has a great theme of study in the capital of the British Empire. With this course, you will...
$5,278.35

This tour is perfect for both local Londoners who want a few hours out of the house and away from the crowds but also for...
$86.37
Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Remarkable London by Night Tour! This London by Night tour will reveal the floodlit splendour of London’s landmarks as dusk falls. When twilight descends upon...
$41.42

Historic Pub Walking Tour of London
This historic London pub tour gives you the chance to enjoy some of the best pubs in London including those dating back over 800 years!...
$21.01

Chelsea FC Stadium Tours and Museum
Chelsea Football Club's most popular product! Take the tour that has been enjoyed by millions of sports fans from all around the world! Chelsea FC's...
$47.21

Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London
Covering almost 800 square miles and no fewer than five English counties, the Cotswolds are the single largest designated Area of Natural Beauty in the...
$182.83





