Walking Tour Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

London’s Changing of the Guard is one of those iconic sights that instantly conjure images of royal pageantry and tradition. While many travelers try to catch a glimpse on their own, joining a guided tour transforms this experience into something much richer. This particular walking tour, offered by London By Night – Christmas Lights, promises a well-paced, insider look at one of Britain’s most treasured ceremonies — and it does so with a keen focus on authenticity, expert narration, and practical value.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its careful planning: it combines prime viewing locations, historical context, and a relaxed walking pace that beats the chaos of trying to find a good spot solo. The guide’s deep knowledge shines through, making this more than just a spectator event. The modest price (around $25 per person) makes it accessible for many, especially considering the inclusion of knowledgeable guides and a small group size. That said, travelers should note that entrance fees to the palaces aren’t included, so this is a viewing experience, not a palace tour.

One potential caveat is the weather — as an outdoor activity, the success of the tour hinges on good weather conditions. But overall, this experience suits anyone interested in royal traditions, history buffs, or those wanting a hassle-free way to witness the Changing of the Guard with expert insights and great photo opportunities.

Good To Know

• Expert guides provide detailed insights into the ceremony and royal traditions.
• Prime viewing spots are carefully chosen to avoid crowds and maximize photo opportunities.
• Small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Two-hour length is perfect for a focused, engaging overview without feeling rushed.
• Walking tour includes scenic stops like St. James’s Park and St. James’s Palace.
• Price point offers good value, considering guided commentary and prime locations.

Why Book the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour?

Seeing the Changing of the Guard is a must-do when in London, but doing it on your own can be fraught with challenges — crowded streets, missed angles, and little context. This tour tackles those issues head-on, offering a curated experience that makes the most of your limited time.

The tour starts at Charing Cross station at 10 am, a central and easy-to-find meeting point, and it lasts about 2 hours. The group is capped at 15 people, meaning you’ll get more from your guide’s knowledge and be able to ask questions or snag better photos without jostling through crowds. The inclusion of a live guide really elevates the experience — as one reviewer shared, “Aaron was excellent, warm, friendly, and knew where to find the best views.”

Analyzing the Itinerary

Stop 1: Buckingham Palace

The tour’s focus is on the actual event of the Changing of the Guard. You’ll watch the ceremony, which involves the Queen’s Guard passing responsibility for guarding the palace to a new set of soldiers. This tradition dates back to the reign of King Henry VII and has been performed at Buckingham Palace since Queen Victoria’s time in 1837. The guide’s commentary often reveals the little secrets behind the ceremony, such as how the guards are selected, their rigorous training, and the history of the uniforms.

While the ticket to enter Buckingham Palace isn’t included, the view of the ceremony itself is often better when you’re guided to the right spots. The guide will steer you away from the throngs and suggest optimal angles for photos — perfect for social media fans.

Stop 2: St. James’s Park

Next, you’ll stroll through St. James’s Park, a lovely green oasis in the heart of London. Here, the guide shares stories about the park’s history from its origins to its role as a royal retreat. It’s a peaceful break from the crowds, and you’ll get some scenic views of the palace from a distance. This stop also gives you an opportunity for photos with the iconic Buckingham Palace in the background — a hit with visitors, especially those who want to avoid the crush of the crowd directly in front of the palace gates.

Stop 3: St. James’s Palace

Your walk concludes with a visit to St. James’s Palace, the oldest royal residence still in use. Here, the guards change in a ceremony that’s just as grand, with a royal band providing a lively soundtrack. The guide highlights that, though the palace isn’t open to the public, the changing of the guards here is just as much a part of the royal tradition as at Buckingham Palace.

Participants usually find this segment particularly engaging, partly because of the lively band and the colorful uniforms of the guards. The guide’s insights often include little-known facts about the guards’ duties and the history of the palace.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

One reviewer praised the guide Aaron for his warmth, friendliness, and extensive knowledge about the guards, the royal family, and the area. They mentioned that he knew where to find the best views and shared stories that added depth to the experience. This emphasis on expert narration makes the tour stand out compared to trying to see the ceremony independently.

Another comment appreciated the well-organized itinerary that avoided the mass chaos often associated with the ceremony. The guide’s tips on the best angles for photos proved invaluable for those wanting to capture the moment without the crowd in the shot.

Practical Aspects

This tour is priced at approximately $24.89 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the guided commentary, prime viewing spots, and the small-group format. Since entry to the palaces isn’t included, it’s a perfect complement to a palace visit, or a standalone experience for those primarily interested in the ceremony and royal traditions.

Starting at Charing Cross station, the tour is easily accessible via public transportation. The walk is moderate, covering scenic areas and historic sites, and the group size ensures a comfortable experience. The tour lasts about 2 hours, fitting neatly into a busy sightseeing day.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since this is an outdoor activity, weather can influence the experience. If it rains or is too stormy, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds available if that happens. Also, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for last-minute plans or weather concerns.

Who Should Choose This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a guided, well-planned way to see the Changing of the Guard, without the stress of finding the best spot on their own. It’s perfect for history buffs, social media enthusiasts, or first-time visitors wanting an authentic, informative overview. It also suits travelers with moderate physical fitness, as the itinerary involves walking but not strenuous activity.

Final Thoughts

This Changing of the Guard walking tour succeeds because it combines expert guides, strategic viewing spots, and a relaxed pace that allows you to truly enjoy the ceremony. While the price is modest, the value is high given the insights and ease of access it offers. It’s a great way to experience one of London’s most iconic traditions without the hassle of navigating crowds or missing out on the best angles.

If you’re keen to see the royal guards in full uniform, learn about their history, and enjoy a scenic walk through some of London’s most famous sights, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who want a deeper understanding of British royal customs without paying for palace entry.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for children, especially those with a keen interest in royal traditions. However, frequent outdoor walking and standing for about two hours may require some physical stamina.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 10:00 am from Charing Cross station, which is centrally located and easy to reach via public transportation.

Are tickets to Buckingham Palace included?
No, the tour does not include palace entry tickets. It focuses on watching the ceremonial changing of the guard.

What should I wear?
Since the tour is outdoors, dress appropriately for the weather. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if rain is forecast.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and better interaction with the guide.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll receive a full refund or a reschedule.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, including walking and standing. Travelers with mobility issues should consider this when booking.

What makes this tour stand out?
Beyond the prime viewing spots, the guiding expertise and the small group size make this a memorable and manageable way to experience the ceremony.

In essence, this Changing of the Guard walking tour offers a thoughtful, well-organized peek into one of Britain’s most classic traditions. It’s a solid choice for those who want to blend history, culture, and a touch of royal glamour into a compact, enjoyable experience.