Private Changing of the Guard Experience
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
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!
Additional Info
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
What To Expect
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.
Options
Private Changing of the Guard Experience
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Guide is licensed or certified
Lunch will need to be bought for the guide.
You may be required to use a bus and therefore buy Oyster Card tickets beforehand.
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
19 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great ecoerience
B4791AHsharonp,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour guide Wesley was amazing. Took us to all the right spots to see the changing of the guards. Highly recommend!
Our guide was very...
Alexa T,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. I learned a great deal from her. She made it very comfortable to ask questions and she had an answer for every question we asked. She was wonderful with the two young children in our party, as well.
Matt was great for private changing of guards
Erika P,Dec 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Matt was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He was patient with children's questions and did a great job making the explanations relevant to them!
Best tour ever!!!
I1555ARalland,Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wesley was amazing! He showed us all around London that most people do not think to see. We had great spots watching the changing of the guards and walked with them to the palace. He told us great stories along the way. We learned so much in a short period of time. We enjoyed his company so much that we scheduled for a few days later to take us to Stonehenge, Salisbury and Southampton. Couldn’t have asked for a better guide! I highly recommend this tour 100%!!! Thank you Wesley for making our first trip to the UK amazing! Until next time…
Super
BhaskarB244,Aug 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent! Adrian was amazing! Very informative and friendly. Highly recommended. Very knowledgeable and great knowledge of history.
Would recommend.
Lyndsay M,Jul 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience traveling with multigenerational group (65,66,42,42,6). Even though the changing of the guards was last minute cancelled because of the ladies football win (this can happen) the tour guide was still great and accommodated our group with a great tour despite the cancellation.
Very knowledgeable and...
Kevin N,May 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Very knowledgeable and friendly. Also flexible with the private tour. Definitely recommend. Great location to view
fascinating experience
Valerie Z,Sep 12, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00We walked and talked with Wesley our guide who was both informative and so friendly. Was a wonderful tour with wonderful sights. quite a bit of walking which was fine with me so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Wesley brought us to the best areas where we could see the most and really appreciate the beauty of it all. Would definitely recommend this tour.
Royal Westminster Tour
450amels,Jan 12, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I loved the Royal Westminster area tour with Wesley! He brought a perfect combination of historical expertise, enthusiasm, and humor. Would highly recommend Free Tours by Foot in London
Best tour!
robinfN9562EI,Jul 9, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was the best tour of my trip! The tour guide, Sheldon, was amazing. So engaging and personable. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole day.
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