Let one of our expert guides introduce you to all the military splendor of the Changing of the Guard ceremony during this 2-hour semi-private tour. Discover the traditions and history of this spectacular event while hearing more about the monumental Buckingham Palace.
Start your adventure at London’s famous Trafalgar Square, where you’ll learn about the Queen’s Guard with their iconic uniform of scarlet red tunics and bearskin hats. We keep our groups small—no more than 12 guests per tour—so you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions as your guide walks you through the Horse Guards Palace, where the Cavalry on Guard presents a spectacular sight: a mounted regiment riding immaculately groomed horses with shining breastplates. You’ll then head up the Duke of York Steps near the monumental Admiralty Arch to hear about monarchs such as George VI and his wife Queen Elizabeth – while admiring their statues!
Next is a stroll along the famous Mall to St. James’ Palace, where you’ll see the inspection of the soldiers. This New Guard will parade along the Mall as they make their way towards Buckingham Palace, where they’ll replace the Old Guard. Your guide will lead you to the monumental royal palace, where you’ll see the military spectacle unfold before your eyes. You’ll then follow the Old Guard – now off duty – to the Wellington Barracks, so that by the end of the tour, you’ll have participated in every stage of this historic British tradition.
Highlights: Highlights generally include:
Trafalgar Square: Explore London’s most famous public square, home to grand monuments and iconic statues.
The Changing of the Guard Parade: Follow the guards as they march from St. James’ Palace to the Wellington Barracks, and experience this centuries-old tradition firsthand.
St. James’ Palace: Visit the oldest and most senior royal residence in the UK (exterior only).
Horse Guard Stables: Step inside the stables where the ceremonial guards prepare for duty and witness the formal guard inspection.
Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour – Semi-Private (ENGLISH)
London, GB
2 hours
What You Will Do
What's Included?
- Semi-private walking tour
- "semi-private" means group size is never more than 12
- Guests maximum
- Professional tour guide
- Duration 2.5 hours
- Tour will run, rain or shine
What's Not Included?
- Tour price does not include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend uber or taxi)
- Tour does not include gratuities (optional)
- Tour is not available for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
Cancellation Policy
- Customers can cancel for a **full refund up to 24hrs before the tour start time**. No refund will be provided within 24hrs before the tour start time. Contact us by phone to cancel or Reschedule if necessary. *(reschedule fee may apply)*
- No-shows and latecomers will be charged the full price.
- If you have **booked through a third party, please contact them directly** to cancel or reschedule according to their Terms & Conditions.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
National Gallery, London. Meet by the Red telephone booth by the Sainsbury Wing entrance of the National Gallery.
1
Itinerary
Stops generally include but are not limited to: Trafalgar Square - After meeting your guide outside the National Gallery, in Trafalgar Square, you will learn all about the history of this public square which commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory in the Napoleonic Wars over France and Spain. During its history, the square has been a place for protests and demonstrations which continue to this day. (10 minutes) Nelson's Column - Nelson's Column is a monument in Trafalgar Square, built to commemorate Admiral Horatio Nelson, who died at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. (10 minutes) 3.Admiralty Arch - Next you will discover the rich history and heritage of Admiralty Arch, a landmark building in London, providing road and pedestrian access between the Mall and Trafalgar Square. It was commissioned by King Edward VII in memory of his mother, Queen Victoria. (10 minutes) Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall - You will then move on to see the Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall, where you will see members of the Household Cavalry, there to protect the official entrance to St. James Palace and Buckingham Palace. (1 hour) St. James's Park - Afterwards, you will see the beautiful St. James’s Park, the oldest Royal Park in the city which is known for its impressive lake views, pelicans and flower beds located in front of Buckingham Palace. (10 minutes) Clarence House - Surrounding St. James’s Park, you will see Clarence House, a British Royal Residence. It was the home to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother from 1953 until 2002, and it has since been the official residence of Charles, Prince of Wales and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.(10 minutes)
Additional Information
This activity is operated by Babylon Tours London
- Accesibility: Not Wheelchair Accessible
- Disclaimers: The Changing of the Guard ceremony may be subject to last-minute cancellations without prior notice. If the ceremony is canceled, we will provide guests with an appropriate alternative. However, we are unable to offer refunds or discounts in such cases.