Royal London and Changing of the Guard Small-Group Tour
Admire many of London’s important palaces and royal residences—and learn all about the royal family—on this small-group walking tour. Visit Buckingham Palace to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard from a great vantage point. Afterward, see many of London's royal and other landmarks, including St. James’s Palace, Clarence House, and Westminster Abbey.
Overview
Admire many of London’s important palaces and royal residences—and learn all about the royal family—on this small-group walking tour. Visit Buckingham Palace to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard from a great vantage point. Afterward, see many of London's royal and other landmarks, including St. James’s Palace, Clarence House, and Westminster Abbey.
Itinerary
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard is a traditional ceremony showcasing the handover of duties between the King’s Guard. The ceremony features a precision display of marching, music, and military pageantry. Guards in iconic tunics and bearskin hats parade to live music. The event symbolizes British heritage and monarchy, blending discipline with centuries-old tradition.
1 hourBuckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch, is a symbol of the United Kingdom's heritage and royal tradition. Built in 1703 and expanded over centuries, it features 775 rooms, including the Throne Room and the opulent Ballroom. The iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony draws millions annually. Surrounded by lush gardens, the palace remains a working institution, hosting state events and providing a regal backdrop to national celebrations.
20 minutesBig Ben
Big Ben, the iconic clock tower in London, is a symbol of British culture and history. Officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, it stands adjacent to the Houses of Parliament and was completed in 1859. Its massive clock faces and resounding chimes, especially the hourly "bong," are renowned worldwide. Restored in recent years, Big Ben combines Gothic Revival architecture with intricate craftsmanship, making it a timeless landmark and a beacon of tradition.
15 minutesWestminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey, a Gothic masterpiece in London, is a cornerstone of British history and tradition. Founded in 960 AD, it has been the site of coronations since 1066 and numerous royal weddings and funerals. The abbey houses stunning architecture, intricate stained glass, and the renowned Poet’s Corner. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it serves as both a working church and a symbol of the nation’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
15 minutesSt. James's Palace
St James's Palace is one of the oldest royal residences, dating back to 1536. Built by Henry VIII, it served as the official residence of the monarch until the 18th century. Although no longer a royal residence, it remains an important ceremonial and administrative hub. Its historic rooms host key royal events, and it houses several royal offices. The palace’s iconic red brick façade is a symbol of British heritage.
15 minutesHouses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament is a striking Gothic Revival landmark on the River Thames in London. Home to the UK’s Parliament, it houses the House of Commons and House of Lords. Built in the 19th century after a fire, it features iconic structures like Big Ben and the Central Lobby. Its ornate interiors and historic debates reflect Britain's political heritage, making it a global symbol of democracy.
15 minutesClarence House
Clarence House, located in St James’s, London, is the official residence of King Charles III and his family. Built in the 1820s, it has served as a royal home for various members of the British monarchy. The house is a beautiful example of Regency architecture, featuring elegant interiors and a tranquil garden. Clarence House hosts official events and ceremonies, playing a significant role in the British royal family’s public life.
10 minutesHorse Guards Parade at Whitehall
Horse Guards Parade is a historic ceremonial ground in London, renowned for hosting royal events like Trooping the Colour. It’s home to the Royal Horseguards, an elite cavalry regiment serving as the monarch’s personal guards. These soldiers, in striking red uniforms and plumed helmets, perform daily duties at Horse Guards Arch, blending military precision with British tradition. The site and its guards are symbols of loyalty, history, and regal pageantry.
10 minutesThe Mall is a grand ceremonial avenue in central London, stretching from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square. Lined with trees and flanked by royal landmarks, it serves as the site for major state events and royal processions. Known for its vibrant red surface, The Mall hosts iconic celebrations, such as royal weddings and national holidays, making it a focal point of British culture and history.
10 minutesSt. James's Park
St James's Park, located in central London, is one of the city's oldest and most beautiful royal parks. Spanning 57 acres, it features lush gardens, a serene lake, and picturesque views of Buckingham Palace. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including pelicans and swans. With walking paths, scenic bridges, and vibrant flowerbeds, St James's Park offers a peaceful escape in the heart of London, attracting both locals and visitors year-round.
10 minutes
Location
Address
97 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0RP, UK
Experience
Highlights
Inclusions
- Discover London's Royal Landmarks including Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey
- Get up close for photos of the Royal Horseguards in the Household Cavalry
- Guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
- Get memorable photos at Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and Clarence House
- Knowledgeable tour guide from an award-winning tour company
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Entrance Tickets to the Royal Palaces and Landmarks
- This tour does not go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace.
Additional Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The tour starts at the Equestrian Statue of Ferdinand Foch. The address of the statue is 97 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0RP. The statue is located next to Victoria Station opposite The Shakespeare Pub. On arrival look for your tour guide holding the yellow umbrella.
- Photos of the Royal Horseguards is strictly subject to Horseguards availability.
- The ceremony can be altered at any time at the discretion of the British Army. In bad weather the British Army may do a 'Wet Change'. This is a shorter version of the Changing of the Guard ceremony without music. This will be decided by the British Army on the morning of the ceremony.
- This tour does not go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace. No tours go to the front gates due to crowds and because you will miss most of the ceremony! This award winning tour will take you around the Royal Palaces for the best views of the guards and the ceremony. If you wish to go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace then do not book this tour.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchairs, walking difficulties or prams/strollers/buggies.
Guide Languages
English
Cancellation Policy
A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.
Traveler Ratings
See how travelers have rated this attraction. Check out the average rating and read what others have shared about their experiences
5.0 / 5
4.97 out of 5 stars
Based on 66 reviews
Review histogram
5
- 97%
4
- 3%
3
- 0%
2
- 0%
1
- 0%
Traveler Reviews
Discover what other travelers have to say about this attraction. Read their reviews and get insights into their experiences
Related Attractions
Explore similar attractions that other travelers have enjoyed. Discover more options to enhance your travel experience
Tower of London Afternoon Tea Tour ExperienceTower of London Afternoon Tea Tour Experience
Experience the world’s most luxurious panoramic bus tour. Our company offers an unparalleled level of comfort, featuring a range of premium seating options, including plush individual armchairs and elegant sofas, ensuring a relaxing and styli...
$127
per adult
London Taxi Top Sights Tour and Thames River CruiseLondon Taxi Top Sights Tour and Thames River Cruise
See up to 50 famous landmarks in one tour, all from the comfort of London’s most iconic car—a classic Black Cab! Then, top off your experience with the Thames River Cruise!After meeting your friendly London ‘cabbie’ guide (hotel pick-u...
$302
per adult
Kid Friendly British Museum in London Guided Tour for FamiliesKid Friendly British Museum in London Guided Tour for Families
This family-friendly tour of the British Museum takes you on a fascinating journey through ancient civilizations over two and a half hours. Starting in ancient Egypt, visitors will explore treasures of the pharaohs, including mummies, the Ros...
$297
per adult
Food, Restaurants, Pubs in London Self-Guided Tour BookletFood, Restaurants, Pubs in London Self-Guided Tour Booklet
Explore London’s vibrant West End at your own pace with this self-guided walking tour, featuring stops at three hand-picked venues serving British classics you won’t want to miss. No more guesswork or tourist traps—our specially prepared guid...
$26
per adult

Westminster Guided Walking Tour + Thames River CruiseWestminster Guided Walking Tour + Thames River Cruise
Join a London walking tour to see the top sights in Westminster. After the walking tour, head to Westminster Pier for a cruise towards the Tower of London, passing under London Bridge. Start the tour at Green Park and walk through Westminster. You...
$43
per adult
St Paul's Cathedral and London Top Sights Private TourSt Paul's Cathedral and London Top Sights Private Tour
See over 30 London sights with a private guide, then enter the incredible St Paul's Cathedral!Join your expert private tour guide to explore London’s major landmarks. This is the perfect introduction to the history and culture of one of Europ...
$133
per adult
West End Musicals Silent Disco Walking TourWest End Musicals Silent Disco Walking Tour
Set off from central London with a guide and a headset, ready to explore the city’s vibrant West End theater district. Along a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) walking route, listen to iconic show tunes that play through your headphones, while your gui...
$42
per adult
London Foodie Adventure: +10 dishes with Sherpa Food ToursLondon Foodie Adventure: +10 dishes with Sherpa Food Tours
Embark on a unique London food tour, beginning at Seven Dials. Discover a hidden bakery in Neal's Yard, owned by the most famous restaurant in London, for a delightful treat. Wander through Soho, exploring its rich culture and history. Visit ...
$118
per adult
Drag Queen Disco Diva Tour - Silent Disco Walking TourDrag Queen Disco Diva Tour - Silent Disco Walking Tour
Step into a world of glitz and groove as you join a silent disco walking tour led by the fabulous Ms Christina Draguleira. Slip on your high-tech headphones and follow your sparkling host through the vibrant streets of Soho and Fitzrovia, bop...
$37
per adult
London Private Custom Foodie Walking and Tasting TourLondon Private Custom Foodie Walking and Tasting Tour
Tailor a dining adventure in London to suit your palate with this private, customizable food tour. Choose from themed itineraries—maybe you’ll dive into the multicultural flavors of the East End or explore the hip eateries of Soho and Chinato...
$259
per adult
London Small-Group Thames Rocket Sunset Speedboat TourLondon Small-Group Thames Rocket Sunset Speedboat Tour
See London at its most majestic on a thrilling sunset speedboat tour on the Thames River with a small group. You’ll travel on the Thames at a quieter time of day, when most boats have departed for the day. Alternate between going fast and slo...
$82
per adult
Soho Historic Pubs and Music Themed TourSoho Historic Pubs and Music Themed Tour
Join a guided stroll through Soho’s buzzing streets and discover an array of pubs packed with cultural history. Follow in the footsteps of iconic artists, musicians, writers, and actors who once frequented these very spots. Imagine The Beatle...
$38
per adult
London Small-Group Rock n' Roll Walking TourLondon Small-Group Rock n' Roll Walking Tour
Many of rock’s greatest bands have London roots, and on this small-group tour, you’ll go on a deep-dive of their haunts on foot. Led by a local musician, you’ll wander through Soho, Mayfair, and beyond, getting a look at the land that created...
$33
per adult
Private and Customizable Black Cab TourPrivate and Customizable Black Cab Tour
Few people know London better than its black cab drivers, but hailing taxis to get from place to place can be time-consuming. On this customizable experience, your driver-guide takes you past city highlights such as Buckingham Palace, Westmin...
$398
per adult

Speedboat Tour Through Heart of the CitySpeedboat Tour Through Heart of the City
Meet your friendly skipper and crew at Tower Bridge Quay and collect your waterproof jacket, along with the latest automatic inflatable life jacket. Listen to the safety briefing before you board the power boat and sit in the state-of-the-art suspens...
$58
per adult

Private Photoshoot with Video Clip OptionPrivate Photoshoot with Video Clip Option
Feel like a star during your trip to London and capture the moment with share with friends and family with the help of a private photoshoot. Pick from locations like the Tower Bridge, London Eye, Big Ben, or Westminster. Meet your photographer and ge...
$159
per adult
Canary Wharf Bubble Private Trip fom Embankment PierCanary Wharf Bubble Private Trip fom Embankment Pier
See London from a perspective that most visitors miss on this private boat ride for up to 12 passengers. Pass under Tower Bridge and past famous sights such as the Tower of London, Canary Wharf, the HMS Belfast, the London Eye, and the Houses...
$656
per adult

Thames Rockets Speedboat ExperienceThames Rockets Speedboat Experience
Why gently drift along the Thames when you can sightsee at rocket speed? With the Ultimate London Adventure, see landmarks and get your adrenaline fix at the same time. Set off from London Eye Pier and whoosh past Big Ben, Tower Bridge, St. Paul's...
$85
per adult
Thames Rockets Speedboat ExperienceThames Rockets Speedboat Experience
Why gently drift along the Thames when you can sightsee at rocket speed? With the Ultimate London Adventure, see landmarks and get your adrenaline fix at the same time. Set off from London Eye Pier and whoosh past Big Ben, Tower Bridge...
$86
per adult
Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace ExperienceChanging of the Guard at Buckingham Palace Experience
Join our fun and informative Changing of the Guard walking experience! We'll secure the best viewing spots for the entire ceremony and even give you the chance to walk alongside the guards and band as they march down The Mall. Our expert loca...
$25
per adult

Sightseeing Black Cab Tour with Hotel PickupSightseeing Black Cab Tour with Hotel Pickup
London Sight Seeing Tour: A Journey Through Time in a Black Cab Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of London in the comfort of a modern, black cab. Our London Sight Seeing Tour offers a unique perspective of the city’s most iconic land...
$375
per adult

Southampton Port to London via Stonehenge & Windsor CastleSouthampton Port to London via Stonehenge & Windsor Castle
You will be picked up at your designated cruise terminal. Within the terminal your chauffeur will be waiting your arrival with your name printed clearly. Once your chauffeur has made contact,they will escort you to your luxury transportation, where t...
$1003
per adult
Dover Port Private Transfer to or From London With PickupDover Port Private Transfer to or From London With Pickup
Enjoy a stress-free London journey to or from the cruise port at Dover with the help of your very own private chauffeur. Travel in a comfortable car rather than worrying about navigating public transport or hailing a cab with all your bags. G...
$416
per adult
Southampton Cruise Port Private Transfers To/From LondonSouthampton Cruise Port Private Transfers To/From London
Skip the stress and pre-book a private transfer to or from Southampton Cruise Port. Enjoy exclusive service with a dedicated driver who will be ready to transport you—and your luggage—to your destination. Swap crowded trains for complete comf...
$404
per adult
Luton Airport - To & From Central London - Meet & GreetLuton Airport - To & From Central London - Meet & Greet
Immerse yourself in a tailor made journey that transcends ordinary travel. Our commitment revolves around comprehending and fulfilling the distinctive requirements and preferences for you and your family, ensuring a flawless and safe journey....
$217
per adult

From Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port - Private TransferFrom Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port - Private Transfer
Enjoy a stress-free transfer between London Heathrow Airport and Southampton Port. Relax on a trip with a professional driver who will wait for you with a name board at the London Heathrow Airport. Meet your driver at the arrivals area of the airpor...
$271
per adult

Gatwick Airport to Central London Airport TransferGatwick Airport to Central London Airport Transfer
We offer a stress-free and hassle-free experience, with a professional driver meeting you at the airport and taking care of all your transportation needs. Our vehicles are spacious, modern, and fully air-conditioned, ensuring your journey is as comfo...
$295
per adult
Heathrow Airport To/From Central London private taxi transfersHeathrow Airport To/From Central London private taxi transfers
When Booking with us, Passengers will get these additional services as well.Meet & Greet: We are offering a meet and greet service for airport pick-ups from inside the arrival halls. Flight monitoring: We monitor the flights...
$123
per adult
Central London to Heathrow Airport Private Taxi TransferCentral London to Heathrow Airport Private Taxi Transfer
Travel between London and Heathrow Airport with ease by opting for a private transfer. Your licensed driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Heathrow in a private vehicle exclusively for your party. Rates are per car, not per pa...
$143
per adult
London Private Round-Trip Transfer from Stansted AirportLondon Private Round-Trip Transfer from Stansted Airport
Skip hailing a taxi—twice—and make getting to and from London a worry-free breeze. With this round-trip private transfer service, you’ll land at Stansted Airport, meet your private driver, and be off to the city in style. When you’re ready, y...
$302
per adult

Mamma Mia! The MusicalMamma Mia! The Musical
This is one trip down the aisle you won't soon forget
$43
per adult

Les MisérablesLes Misérables
Imagine stepping into a world of passionate love, fierce rivalry, and political rebellion, all set to the tune of the world's most beloved musical. This is the magic that awaits with a ticket to Cameron Mackintosh's fully staged new production of...
$63
per adult

MJ: The MusicalMJ: The Musical
The unparalleled magic and showmanship of Michael Jackson now illuminates London's West End. *MJ: The Musical* is fresh from Broadway, in a critically-acclaimed, multi Tony Award®-winning musical sensation. It's a trip back in time – focusing on the ...
$45
per adult

ABBA Voyage Dance Floor TicketABBA Voyage Dance Floor Ticket
Experience a concert like no other and see ABBA on stage in a concert 40 years in the making. Blending cutting-edge technology, spectacular lighting, and some of the most beloved songs ever written, ABBA takes to the stage in a whole new way, as digi...
$65
per adult

Moulin Rouge The MusicalMoulin Rouge The Musical
This stunning production of *Moulin Rouge, The Musical* breathes life into Baz Luhrmann’s iconic movie, mesmerizing audiences in the buzzing heart of London's West End. The Piccadilly Theatre has undergone a magical metamorphosis into a palace of...
$47
per adult

Tina the MusicalTina the Musical
Tina Turner, a small-town girl from Nutbush, Tennessee transformed into the global Queen of Rock 'n' Roll. Watch as her story unfolds in this gripping new stage musical. You'll learn the story of a fearless woman who challenged the limits of her gend...
$31
per adult
London Theatre: Mrs Doubtfire The MusicalLondon Theatre: Mrs Doubtfire The Musical
Out-of-work actor Daniel will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a li...
$50
per adult

The Lion KingThe Lion King
Hakuna Matata! Disney’s award-winning musical The Lion King explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and some of the most fantastic costumes ever seen on stage. Come join the journey of young lion cub Simba as he grows from wide-eyed cub ...
$71
per adult