Have you ever wondered what it would be like to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony in London? The Changing of the Guard Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience this historic event firsthand.
But is it just a touristy spectacle, or is there more to it? Join us as we explore the fascinating world of the Changing of the Guard and discover the secrets that lie behind this age-old tradition.
Good To Know

- The Changing of the Guard is a signature attraction in London, and this tour offers a guided walking tour of the ceremony.
- The tour includes a sightseeing stroll past attractions like St. James’s Palace, Clarence House, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.
- The tour provides a knowledgeable guide who can answer questions and provide information about the different regiments and British history related to the Changing of the Guard.
- The tour offers the opportunity to get up close to the guards for different parts of the ceremony and capture great photos.
Overview and Tour Details

Set out on a captivating journey through London’s iconic landmarks and witness the awe-inspiring Changing of the Guard ceremony with a knowledgeable guide by your side.
This guided walking tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the historic ceremony and learn about the different regiments from a live guide.
The tour starts at the meeting point located at 160 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, UK, on the corner of Piccadilly and Arlington Street. Look for your guide holding a yellow umbrella. It’s recommended to arrive 10 minutes before the tour begins to check-in.
Gratuities are optional, allowing you to show appreciation for your guide’s expertise. Please note that only handbags and small backpacks are allowed, and suitcases aren’t permitted.
Join this tour for a personalized and informative experience of the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Interested in exploring London on foot? Other walking tours we've covered
Cancellation Policy

After learning about the tour details and highlights, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the cancellation policy for the Changing of the Guard walking tour in London.
The policy offers refund options based on certain cut-off times. If you cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the start time, you’ll receive a full refund. However, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, no refund will be given.
It’s important to note that changes to your booking aren’t accepted less than 24 hours before the start time. The cut-off times are based on the local time of the experience, so make sure to be aware of the time difference.
Understanding the cancellation policy will ensure that you’re well-informed and can make any necessary changes to your booking in a timely manner.
Tour Highlights
When it comes to the Changing of the Guard walking tour in London, there are several tour highlights that will make your experience truly memorable.
Not only will you have the opportunity to witness the historic ceremony of the Royal Guard marching towards Buckingham Palace, but you’ll also learn about the different regiments from a knowledgeable guide.
One of the best parts of the tour is being able to get up close to the guards for different parts of the ceremony, giving you the best vantage points to capture great photos.
In addition, the tour provides valuable insights into British history related to the Changing of the Guard. As you stroll past attractions like St. James’s Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of this iconic event.
Value of the Tour

The tour offers an exceptional value for those seeking a more immersive and enjoyable experience of the Changing of the Guard ceremony in London. Here are four reasons why the tour provides such great value:
Personalized Experience: Unlike standing in front of the crowded palace, the tour allows you to have a personalized and informative experience. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you can ask questions and learn about the historical significance of the ceremony.
Up Close and Personal: The tour gives you the opportunity to get up close to the guards and capture great photos. You’ll have the best vantage points to witness different parts of the ceremony and truly appreciate the intricate details.
Expert Guidance: Having a guide to answer your questions and provide information adds immense value to the tour. You’ll learn about British history related to the Changing of the Guard and gain insight into the monarchy.
Affordable Price: Considering all the benefits and experiences you’ll gain from the tour, it’s a great value for the price. Starting from just $12.94, it offers a cost-effective way to make the most of your time in London.
Recommendations and Additional Information
To truly make the most of your time in London and enhance your experience of the Changing of the Guard ceremony, here are some valuable recommendations and additional information to consider.
| Recommendations | Additional Information |
|---|---|
| Visit early | – The ceremony starts at 11:00 AM, so arrive early to secure a good spot. |
| Research the history | – Familiarize yourself with the historical significance of the ceremony to appreciate it more. |
| Find the best photo spots | – The front gate of Buckingham Palace and the steps of the Victoria Memorial are great spots for capturing memorable photos of the ceremony. |
| Dress appropriately | – Be prepared for unpredictable weather, wear comfortable shoes, and dress respectfully. |
| Book in advance | – The tour is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to book your spot in advance. |
| Follow the guide’s instructions | – The guide will provide valuable information and instructions throughout the tour, so listen attentively. |
Directions

Navigating your way to the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London is a breeze with these simple directions:
Start at the meeting point: 160 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, UK. The tour begins on the corner of Piccadilly and Arlington Street.
Look for your guide holding the yellow umbrella. They’ll be easy to spot.
Arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour begins to check-in.
Remember that only handbags and small backpacks are allowed, so leave your suitcases behind.
These directions will lead you to the starting point of the tour, where you’ll embark on a sightseeing stroll past famous landmarks like St. James’s Palace, Clarence House, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.
It’s the perfect way to experience the Changing of the Guard ceremony while enjoying the beauty of London’s iconic landmarks.
Terms and Conditions

As you prepare to embark on the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of the experience. Below is a table outlining the refund policy and meeting point instructions for the tour:
| Refund Policy | Meeting Point Instructions |
|---|---|
| Full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance | Meeting point: 160 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, UK |
| Must cancel at least 24 hours before the start time | The tour starts on the corner of Piccadilly and |
| No refund if canceled less than 24 hours before start time | Arlington Street |
| No changes accepted less than 24 hours before start time | Meet your guide holding the yellow umbrella |
| Cut-off times based on the local time of the experience | Arrive 10 minutes before the tour begins to check-in |
Knowing the refund policy ensures that you understand the conditions for canceling or making changes to your booking. Plus, the meeting point instructions provide clear guidance on where to meet your guide to start the tour. By following these guidelines, you can make the most of your Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London.
Common Questions
What Time Does the Changing of the Guard Ceremony Take Place?
The changing of the guard ceremony takes place at different times depending on the season. It is recommended to join the tour for the best vantage points, as well as to learn about the history and significance of the ceremony.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. However, participants are advised to wear suitable attire for walking and standing for extended periods of time.
Can I Bring Food or Drinks on the Tour?
Food and drink restrictions apply during the tour. Participants are not allowed to bring food or drinks on the tour. This policy ensures the safety and cleanliness of the tour experience for all participants.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible. There are alternative viewing options available for those who may have difficulty accessing certain areas. The tour aims to accommodate all participants and provide an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London, but it is recommended to dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. It is important to be respectful during the ceremony.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London offers visitors a unique and educational experience, allowing them to witness the historic ceremony up close and learn about the significance of the different regiments.
With the assistance of a knowledgeable guide, participants can explore renowned attractions and gain insights into the rich history and traditions of the British monarchy.
This personalized tour provides the best vantage points for capturing stunning photos and is highly recommended for those seeking a memorable visit to London.
More Walking Tours in London
- Hammersmith: Scenic Riverside Walking Tour & Prosecco Toast
- Hex and the City Halloween walking Tour
- Instagram walking tour of iconic London landmarks
- Jack The Ripper Tour: Interactive Walking Tour in London
- Lights, Camera, London! Movie Locations Walking Tour
- London: 1 to 1 City of London Walking Tour with Ex-Detective
More Tours in London
More Tour Reviews in London
- Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle Private Car Tour
- Hammersmith: Scenic Riverside Walking Tour & Prosecco Toast
- Hampton Court Palace Half-Day Trip from London with Tickets
- Harry Potter Studio Ticket & Tour of London Film Locations
- Harry Potter all over London!
- Hex and the City Halloween walking Tour
Looking for something different? Other London activities we've written about
- Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle Private Car Tour
- Hammersmith: Scenic Riverside Walking Tour & Prosecco Toast
- Hampton Court Palace Half-Day Trip from London with Tickets
- Harry Potter Studio Ticket & Tour of London Film Locations
- Harry Potter all over London!
- Hex and the City Halloween walking Tour
- Hidden Gems Tour Iconic London Taxi Tour
- Highlights of London Private Guided Taxi Tour
- Historic pub tour with Brazilian guide (in Portuguese)
- Hounslow: Pumpkin Patch Plus Entry to Hobbledown Heath
- London: Houses of Parliament Ticket & Political London
- Instagram walking tour of iconic London landmarks
