
Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London worth booking?
Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London is a 2.8-hour experience in London, United Kingdom, from $20 per person. It scores 64 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 64 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (5)
- Duration
- 2.8 hours
- From
- $20 per person
Experience London’s most iconic royal tradition with an award-winning Changing of the Guard tour. Get exclusive views of the ceremony from prime vantage points, see the guards and horses up close, and enjoy behind-the-scenes insights you won’t get on a standard tour. Guided by experts, you’ll explore historic landmarks like Wellington Barracks, St James’s Palace, and Horse Guards Parade while learning about centuries of British pageantry and royal history. Avoid the crowds and capture unforgettable photo opportunities at Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, and other key sites. This tour is designed to give you a unique, immersive, and memorable royal London experience from start to finish. - Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours - Maximum group size of 20 for a personalized experience - Personalised headsets for each guest - Meet at Diana Fountain at Green Park - Not wheelchair accessible; suitable for all ages with moderate mobility
What you get
About this experience
Experience London’s most iconic royal tradition with an award-winning Changing of the Guard tour. Get exclusive views of the ceremony from prime vantage points, see the guards and horses up close, and enjoy behind-the-scenes insights you won’t get on a standard tour. Guided by experts, you’ll explore historic landmarks like Wellington Barracks, St James’s Palace, and Horse Guards Parade while learning about centuries of British pageantry and royal history. Avoid the crowds and capture unforgettable photo opportunities at Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, and other key sites. This tour is designed to give you a unique, immersive, and memorable royal London experience from start to finish. - Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours - Maximum group size of 20 for a personalized experience - Personalised headsets for each guest - Meet at Diana Fountain at Green Park - Not wheelchair accessible; suitable for all ages with moderate mobility
What's included
Included
- Get up close for photos of the Royal Horse guards of the Household Cavalry
- Guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
- Expert tour guide from an award-winning company
- Capture memorable photos at Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace and Clarence House
- Our exclusive tour is the only one with personal headsets—hear every word, never miss a thing!
Not included
- Gratuities (optional)
- Entrance tickets to Buckingham Palace
- Tour does not go to Buckingham Palace’s front gates
What you'll see and do
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and the official London residence of the British monarch. With its grand façade, beautiful surroundings, and strong connection to the Royal Family, the palace plays an important role in the UK’s royal traditions. It also hosts official ceremonies, receptions, and major national occasions.
20 minutes here
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard is a celebrated British tradition, marking the formal handover of duties between the King’s Guard. The ceremony combines military precision, marching, music, and impressive pageantry, with guards in their iconic tunics and bearskin hats. It offers a memorable glimpse into Britain’s royal heritage and centuries-old military traditions.
45 minutes here
Wellington Barracks
Visit Wellington Barracks, the historic headquarters of the Foot Guards, where you’ll see the new guards preparing to march to Buckingham Palace. Watch as the soldiers assemble in full uniform, accompanied by a regimental band. This behind-the-scenes moment offers a closer look at the precision and discipline behind the Changing of the Guard ceremony. A unique chance to experience royal tradition before the parade begins.
20 minutes here
St. James's Palace
St James’s Palace in London is a historic royal landmark with centuries of royal heritage. Commissioned by Henry VIII in the 16th century, the palace has played an important role in British royal history and remains closely connected to the Royal Family. Its distinctive red-brick exterior and historic setting make it a fascinating stop while exploring London’s royal landmarks.
10 minutes here
Clarence House
Clarence House in London is a well-known royal residence situated beside St James’s Palace. With its elegant interiors and long-standing connection to the British Royal Family, the house has been home to several generations of royals. Today, it continues to be associated with royal engagements, official occasions, and London’s rich royal heritage.
15 minutes here
From there, we’ll stroll down The Mall, London’s grand ceremonial boulevard, towards St James’s Palace. Here you’ll watch the palace guards form up and march in striking procession as they make their way towards Buckingham Palace — a truly memorable moment in the Changing of the Guard tradition.
5 minutes here
Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall
Horse Guards Parade in London is a spectacular historic landmark and a fantastic photo opportunity during your royal London tour. Visitors can admire the impressive mounted guards and, when permitted, capture memorable photographs with the horses. It’s a great place to experience London’s military tradition and royal heritage up close.
20 minutes here
St. James's Park
St James’s Park is one of London’s most beautiful Royal Parks, located close to Buckingham Palace and surrounded by some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy a relaxing walk through its landscaped gardens, picturesque lake, and peaceful green spaces while taking in views of the palace and nearby royal attractions. It’s a perfect place to experience the charm and history of central London.
15 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
London
Meet your guide at the Diana Fountain, just outside the Green Park-facing exit of Green Park Station (Piccadilly, Jubilee & Victoria lines). Arrive by 9:45 am. Look for your guide with a placard and white-and-green umbrella. Tour starts promptly at 9:55
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The tour concludes at Horse Guards Parade. Your guide will share helpful tips on nearby attractions to explore, including Westminster Abbey, Parliament Square, a River Thames cruise, and the Tower of London, so you can continue discovering London at your own pace.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- London Strides
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The tour begins at 9:55am, with a recommended reporting time of 9:45 am. If you arrive late, the guide will meet you at the next stop along the route, joining you with the group already in progress.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
1 mentionPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
5 verified traveler reviews for Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Tour was so excellent ,...
Tour was so excellent , our guide had through knowledge about tour and we had a great time watching the guard changing ceremony which was unforgettable....i would definitely recommend ....taking this tour..and guide...
via Viator
An awesome experience !! ...
An awesome experience !! The Gurad change ceremony was a must -see and We had a Wonderful Guide .....
via Viator
Tour was on time , it was...
Tour was on time , it was very informative and increase my knowledge of history.......................
via Viator
It was a fantastic...
It was a fantastic experience. We loved it alot. We have great fun. We enjoyed a lot. One must do this tour.
via Viator
Great Way to see historical Guard Change
Sean made the Changing of the Guards tour unforgettable with his expertise and enthusiasm. Perfect pacing and great insider tips. Absolutely five stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2.8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by London Strides, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 65.5 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything London Strides runsWhy this scores 64
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for London.
How much does Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London cost?
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Prices start at $20 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in London usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London take?
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Plan for about 2.8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in London is not rushed.
Is Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 64 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in London, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in London can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in London and add a light layer if any part of the 2.8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central London within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in London?
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London's best attractions split cleanly: the museums are free and need no booking, so the paid market is about views, theatre and getting out of the city for a day. That makes value scoring unusually important here, and the Outty Ranking penalises anything charging premium prices for access you could get for nothing. On Outty we rank every London experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Great British Rock and Roll Walking Tour, Soho Music & Historic Pubs Tour, London Small Group Tour of Historical Pubs. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit London?
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May to September for long evenings, December for the Christmas markets. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in London?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London?
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Included: Get up close for photos of the Royal Horse guards of the Household Cavalry; Guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony; Expert tour guide from an award-winning company; Capture memorable photos at Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace and Clarence House; and Our exclusive tour is the only one with personal headsets—hear every word, never miss a th. Not included: Gratuities (optional); Entrance tickets to Buckingham Palace; and Tour does not go to Buckingham Palace’s front gates. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London?
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Meet your guide at the Diana Fountain, just outside the Green Park-facing exit of Green Park Station (Piccadilly, Jubilee & Victoria lines). Arrive by 9:45 am. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London?
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Across 5 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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