London: Changing of the Guard & Royal London Walking Tour

The London: Changing of the Guard & Royal London Walking Tour offers an engaging way to experience some of the city’s most famous royal sights. Priced at just $25.59 per person, this small-group tour lasts 2.5 hours, making it a manageable yet rich introduction to London’s royal traditions and landmarks. Starting at 97 Buckingham Palace Road, near Victoria Station, the tour is designed to maximize your viewing of the Changing of the Guard ceremony from the best spots around the royal palaces.

This tour is a perfect choice for those wanting close-up views, excellent photo opportunities, and a knowledgeable guide who shares stories behind the sights. With a maximum of 15 guests, it maintains an intimate atmosphere, ensuring plenty of personal attention. While it doesn’t go to the front gates of Buckingham Palace, it offers a comprehensive look at key royal residences and landmarks, making it suitable for travelers interested in history, photography, and royal traditions.

Key Points

• Affordable and compact: At $25.59, this 2.5-hour tour offers great value for a focused experience of royal London.
• Prime viewing spots: You stand in the best positions to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard and capture stunning photos.
• Expert guide: The knowledgeable tour guide shares fascinating facts about the royal residences and landmarks.
• Close-up photo opportunities: Get a chance to take pictures of the Royal Guard, Royal Horseguards, and major landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey.
• Visits to royal landmarks: The tour includes stops at Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, Clarence House, and sights like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of 15 participants, the tour maintains a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
• Weather considerations: In bad weather, the British Army may do a ‘Wet Change’—a shorter version of the ceremony without music.
• Accessibility note: The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or large luggage, as it involves walking and standing in outdoor locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at the Equestrian Statue of Ferdinand Foch

The tour begins at the Equestrian Statue of Ferdinand Foch, located near Victoria Station at 97 Buckingham Palace Road. On arrival, look for the guide holding the yellow umbrella—a clear sign to gather. The meeting point’s central location allows easy access via public transport, especially for those staying near Victoria Station.

The starting location is convenient for travelers arriving from various parts of London, and the walk to the royal sites is manageable. The guide will lead you through the streets, pointing out notable sights along the way, setting the stage for an engaging exploration of royal London.

Witness the Changing of the Guard from Top Viewing Spots

The core experience is watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, where you’ll get the best views around the palace grounds. The guide ensures you stand at locations that prevent missing any part of the ceremony, which includes the Royal Guard dressed in traditional bearskin hats and tunics, marching to the sound of a military band.

This tour offers a closer look than some larger, more crowded options, thanks to the carefully chosen vantage points. It also provides fantastic photo opportunities of the guards, the palace, and the marching band in action. Should the weather turn poor, a ‘Wet Change’ might take place—this is a shorter, music-free version of the ceremony, decided by the British Army on the morning of the event.

Up-Close Encounters with Royal Palaces and Residences

Beyond the guard change, the guide shares insights about the royal residences. The tour covers Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, and Clarence House—the official residence of King Charles III. You’ll learn the history behind these iconic buildings and their roles in royal life.

While the tour doesn’t go through the front gates of Buckingham Palace, the selected viewpoints allow for great photos and a comprehensive understanding of their significance. The guide’s storytelling enhances the experience, turning sightseeing into a narrative about royal traditions and history.

Official Royal Landmarks and Historic Sites

After witnessing the guard change, the tour continues through central London, stopping at some of the city’s most famous landmarks. You will see Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament, gaining insights into their roles in Britain’s political and religious history.

The visitors get to appreciate London’s royal and historic architecture while walking through the area’s grand streets. This combination of royal and political landmarks provides a well-rounded picture of London’s importance, making the tour valuable for both history buffs and casual sightseers.

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The Guide’s Style and Expertise

According to reviews, the guide, Ian, excels at making the tour engaging and informative. Descriptions of the storytelling style highlight Ian’s ability to incorporate fun facts about the Royal Family and royal residences seamlessly, making the experience lively and memorable.

The guide’s funny and knowledgeable manner is frequently praised, making the 2.5-hour walk feel lively and personal. The small group size means you’ll likely get plenty of time for questions, and the guide’s storytelling enhances understanding of the history and traditions behind each sight.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour starts near Victoria Station at the Ferdinand Foch statue, a highly accessible location. The meeting point is easy to find, with the guide holding a yellow umbrella—a key detail for first-time participants.

The tour ends back at the starting point, so you’ll have flexibility to continue exploring London afterward. Booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind for flexible plans. Payment is also deferred until booking, allowing you to reserve without immediate financial commitment.

Weather and Accessibility Considerations

Bad weather can alter the ceremony, with the British Army potentially conducting a shorter ‘Wet Change’ without music. Travelers should be prepared for outdoor standing, as the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those with large luggage or strollers. The walking involved is manageable but not designed for those with low mobility or fitness limitations.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

This tour stands out for its affordable price and small group size, which ensures personal attention and better viewing angles. Unlike larger bus-based or less focused options, it emphasizes close-up views and storytelling.

For travelers interested in photo opportunities and focused sightseeing of royal landmarks, this guided walking experience offers great value. If you desire the full view of Buckingham Palace’s front gates, this may not be the ideal choice, but for capturing iconic sights from optimal locations, it is an excellent option.

The Sum Up: An Engaging Royal London Introduction

The London: Changing of the Guard & Royal London Walking Tour provides an affordable, well-organized, and informative way to witness one of London’s most famous ceremonies. Its small group size and expert guide make it ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience with great photo opportunities.

While it doesn’t include access to the palace interior, the tour’s carefully curated viewpoints and storytelling make it a valuable introduction to London’s royal sites and landmarks. It’s especially suited for those keen to learn about royal traditions, take stunning photos, and enjoy a compact exploration of central London’s historic sights.

The experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, photography fans, and anyone wanting a convenient, insightful glimpse into the UK’s royal life. With flexible cancellation policies and a friendly guide, this tour offers a worry-free way to enjoy London’s royal pageantry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 2.5 hours, offering a focused experience of royal London and the Changing of the Guard.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Equestrian Statue of Ferdinand Foch, near Victoria Station, at 97 Buckingham Palace Road.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and it involves outdoor walking and standing, so low-fitness or mobility-restricted travelers should consider this.

Will I see the front gates of Buckingham Palace?
No, the tour does not go to the front gates but offers the best viewpoints around the palace for viewing and photos.

What happens if the weather is poor?
In bad weather, the British Army may do a ‘Wet Change’, which is a shorter ceremony without music.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the guide experienced?
Yes, the guide is knowledgeable and engaging, with reviews praising Ian for storytelling and humor.

Are photos included in the tour?
You will have excellent opportunities to photograph the Changing of the Guard, Royal Guard, and Royal Palaces from optimal locations.

Does the tour include visits to other landmarks?
Yes, the tour covers Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 15 guests, ensuring a more personal and intimate experience.

Would this tour appeal to history buffs?
Absolutely—the guide shares fascinating stories about royal residences and traditions, enriching the sightseeing experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby