London: Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guards Tour

London: Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guards Tour – A Detailed Look

If you’re visiting London and want a taste of its regal traditions without breaking the bank, the Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guard tour offers an accessible and engaging glimpse into royal London. While it’s not a comprehensive palace visit—entry to Buckingham Palace isn’t included—the tour provides a front-row view of one of the city’s most iconic ceremonies, led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

What we love about this experience are three key things: first, the chance to learn intriguing stories from a local guide who makes history come alive; second, the ability to see the Changing of the Guard close-up, including the vibrant uniforms and military band; and third, the overall value for the price, offering a memorable snapshot of London’s royal pageantry. The main consideration? It’s a walking tour, so it suits those comfortable with standing and moving around for about two hours.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a compact, affordable experience that combines cultural storytelling with a classic London spectacle. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to soak in some of London’s most famous sights and traditions.

Good To Know

• Cost-effective: At just over $22, it offers a budget-friendly way to experience royal London.
• Educational: A knowledgeable guide shares entertaining stories and insights into Buckingham Palace and its history.
• Authentic spectacle: Enjoy a prime view of the Changing of the Guard, including the music and ceremonial uniforms.
• Convenient meeting point: Starts outside Green Park Tube station, a central and easy-to-find location.
• Inclusive: Wheelchair accessible and available in English and Italian.
• Limited access: Does not include entry inside Buckingham Palace or transportation, making it focused on viewing and storytelling.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Meeting Point and Start

The tour begins at the statue of the Goddess Diana, just outside Green Park Tube station. This spot is very central—perfect for those coming via public transit—and easy to locate thanks to the nearby wooden food stall. Meeting here, you’ll get a brief introduction from your guide to set the stage for what’s to come.

The Walking Tour

Over the next two hours, you’ll walk through some of London’s most picturesque spots, guided by an expert who will share stories about Buckingham Palace, its history, and its role as the monarch’s London residence. The pace is comfortable, allowing time to listen and absorb details, with plenty of chances to ask questions.

The Changing of the Guard

The highlight is undoubtedly the Changing of the Guard, where you’ll find yourself in a prime position for a clear, front-row view. This ceremony, dating back over 500 years to Henry VII’s reign, is a vibrant display of discipline, tradition, and military precision. Expect to see guards in their iconic red tunics and bearskin helmets perform a meticulous “relief” of soldiers, accompanied by a military band that plays everything from well-known military marches to more modern tunes.

According to reviews, this part of the tour is particularly praised. One traveler mentioned, “We had the chance to see the military band, which is incredible,” highlighting how the music adds a lively element to the ceremony. Another reviewer, who had a guide named Chiara, appreciated her “super” commentary and the fact they had her all to themselves for part of the experience.

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Insights and Stories

Your guide will share stories behind the palace’s architecture, the significance of the guards, and how this tradition has evolved over centuries. These narratives transform a simple ceremonial watch into a meaningful glimpse into Britain’s royal customs.

Duration and End

The tour concludes back at Green Park, making it easy to continue exploring London afterward. Since it’s a walking experience, it’s well-suited for travelers comfortable on their feet; however, the two-hour duration keeps it manageable for most.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $22.58 per person, the tour offers impressive value. You’re paying mainly for the expert guidance and prime viewing spot for the Changing of the Guard, rather than entry inside Buckingham Palace. For many visitors, this is a perfect way to experience a quintessential London tradition without paying steep entrance fees or booking complicated behind-the-scenes tours.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guide’s knowledge makes a big difference. One guest called the guide “very informative,” and many appreciated the small group dynamics, which often allow for more personalized attention and easier questions. While some may prefer a more extensive palace tour, this experience excels at providing an immersive, cultural snapshot.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Check availability in advance, as starting times vary.
• Arrive a little early at the meeting point for a smooth start.
• Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking and standing for a while.
• Remember, the tour does not include entry inside Buckingham Palace, so if you want to explore its interiors, consider adding that separately.
• If you’re on a tight schedule or budget, this tour hits a sweet spot of affordability and authenticity.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wider range of visitors.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors eager to see the Changing of the Guard and get a taste of London’s royal traditions. It’s also great for those who prefer a structured, guided experience rather than wandering independently. If you’re interested in learning stories behind the sights and enjoying a lively, colorful ceremony, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re hoping to get inside Buckingham Palace or want a more comprehensive royal experience, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Likewise, those with mobility issues might want to verify accessibility details, but the tour’s description indicates it is wheelchair friendly.

Final Thoughts

The London: Buckingham Palace and Changing of the Guards Tour offers a well-priced, engaging introduction to one of London’s most iconic attractions. With a knowledgeable guide, a prime viewing spot, and authentic ceremonial spectacle, it delivers a memorable experience for those interested in royal traditions and London’s regal atmosphere.

While it doesn’t include palace entry or detailed insider access, its simplicity and focus on the Changing of the Guard make it an excellent choice for first-timers or travelers short on time. The positive reviews and the focus on storytelling suggest you’ll leave feeling more connected to British royal customs—plus, you’ll have plenty of great photos and stories to tell back home.

In short, this tour is a solid pick for anyone wanting a fun, informative, and affordable way to witness a key London tradition.

FAQ

Does the tour include entry inside Buckingham Palace?
No, it only offers a view of the palace from outside and the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside Green Park Tube station, near the statue of the Goddess Diana, on the Piccadilly South Side Exit.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, including walking and viewing time.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay nothing upfront, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What languages are available?
The tour is guided in English and Italian.

Is it possible to see the Changing of the Guard in all weather?
Most likely, yes, but weather conditions can sometimes affect the ceremony’s schedule. Check local updates closer to your visit.

This tour balances tradition, storytelling, and affordability, making it a practical choice for anyone wanting a taste of royal London without the fuss of extra tickets or long queues.

You can check if your dates are available here: