Small-Group Changing of the Guards Walking Tour: A Deep Dive into British Traditions
5.0
325 Ratings
Greater London
Discover the secrets and significance behind the Changing of the Guards ceremony on this small-group walking tour. Join us for a deep dive into British traditions and experience the pomp and ceremony firsthand.
Duration: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Changing of the Guard - Join us as we serve a slice of world-famous ceremonial action with this small-group Changing of the Guards experience.
What's Included
  • English-speaking local expert guide
  • Small group experience with a maximum of 15 people
  • Guided Changing of the Guard experience
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Food & drink
  • Hotel pick-up & drop-off
Additional Information

England is celebrated for its fish and chips, unpredictable weather, traditional warm beer, rich historical heritage, and a deeply rooted fondness for grandeur and ritual. Be part of our renowned ceremonial event through this small-group participation in the Changing of the Guards.

This majestic guard shift offers much more than what initially meets the eye- guided by an expert, you’ll distinguish between a Welsh and Grenadier guard, unravel the mystery behind the iconic bearskin hats, discover the amazing history of this flamboyant display and truly comprehend the importance of every colour, button, mascot, symbol, and gesture in this quintessentially British tradition.

From an optimal observation spot, your small group will accompany the guards as they advance towards Buckingham Palace, matching your steps to the rhythm of their drums… but what will today’s musical selection be?

  • We tend to move pretty fast to keep up with the guards, so please wear comfortable shoes and always carry water.
  • We will not stand at the forecourt of Buckingham Palace as, due to crowds, you see very little and the experience would be ten times less fun. We want to get you as close as possible with the opportunity to take some amazing snapshots.
  • It is at the discretion of the British Army to change or cancel the Ceremony. The announcement will not be made until after 10.30am so come rain or shine, the Urban Saunters Changing of the Guard experience will go ahead. If the full ceremony is cancelled, there will still be the chance to see the guards marching, just without the music.
  • No videoing of the guide unless they have given permission
  • Ceremony can be altered at the discretion of the British Army, or occasionally due to rain
  • There are no toilet or refreshment breaks on this tour
  • Tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Location
Equestrian Edward Ⅶ
Meet our guide by the Equestrian statue of Edward VII, Waterloo Place, London SW1Y 5ER. Arriving by tube: Take the tube to Piccadilly Circus and take exit No. 3 onto Regent Street/St. James's. Walk south down Regent Street towards St. James's Park. Waterloo Place is at the end of Regent Street.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(325 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
H2705pecourtneyc
Apr 22, 2024
Excellent tour! - Lee was such a great guide! This was an excellent tour of changing of the guards. Highly recommend! Our family very much enjoyed.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bleyvand
Apr 22, 2024
Exceptional Tour Experience with Jo: Highly Recommend! - My family and I had the pleasure of being guided by Jo, who truly elevated our experience. Her meticulous planning ensured prime spots for the Changing of the Guards ceremony, and her extensive knowledge added depth to the tour. I wholeheartedly recommend Jo to anyone seeking a memorable and informative tour experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Colin_o
Apr 20, 2024
Excellent Tour Guide - Nathan was a fun and exceptional guide. He made sure that we had a perfect view of the inspection and changing of the guard. Thank you.
Review provided by Viator
Jet801193
Apr 20, 2024
Amber’s team, go, go, go! - Ambers did an excellent job on finding the perfect spots for us to watch Changing guard so on interacting with all the members, telling stories to entertain us, even take family pictures for us. Before departure, she gave us many tips to tour around the palace. She is the best tour guide we have ever had in UK.🇬🇧❤️❤️
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Karenmercier
Apr 20, 2024
Great tour - We had a very nice time. Richard was our guide. He is very interesting and has a great sense of humour. We learned many things. Our daughter, aged 8, also enjoyed the tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Miahd310ql
Apr 19, 2024
Amazing Tour of the Changing of the Guard - London marathon limited our view of the changing of the guards (Buckingham Pace), but our tour guide, Rosie, found us an amazing spot to watch. Got to watch the band and the guards prepare for 20-30 mins. Absolutely amazing tour guide!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
431diederikv
Apr 18, 2024
Awesome - Me and my wife had private tour for the changing of the guards. Lee was our guide and he took us to all the great spots to watch the guards and tell us all kind of interesting details about it. This way we could also take some nice pictures. Thanks for the great tour Lee!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
J6822vkdavids
Apr 18, 2024
Great guide (Jo) Great experience - Jo was a great guide with a plethora of interesting history and facts behind the whole experience. She knew the best locations to get the best experience and pictures.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
575maryb
Apr 15, 2024
Changing of the Guard with Jo - Fantastic experience. Jo was knowledgeable, friendly, and got us right upfront for the whole ceremony. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Marytran1912
Apr 14, 2024
Guard changing experience - Amber was amazing full of energy and knowledge about London history, and all the best spots to see the guards! Highly recommend
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
April 2024
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Today