Changing of the Guard and Buckingham Palace Entry Ticket

Experience the Majesty of London’s Royal Protocol for $96.98

This Changing of the Guard and Buckingham Palace entry tour offers an engaging way to see two of London’s most iconic symbols of monarchy. Priced at $96.98 per person, the tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a manageable and enriching experience. It begins at a convenient meeting point near Waterloo Place and includes a guided viewing of the Changing of the Guard ceremony, paired with self-guided access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a lively, guided ceremony and the chance to explore the palace’s exquisite interiors at your own pace. While there is no hotel pickup or lunch included, the tour’s well-organized logistics and in-depth commentary make it a popular choice for those interested in royal traditions. The only notable limitation is that it involves quite a bit of walking, and it’s not suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.

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Key Points

• Guided viewing of the Changing of the Guard, with expert commentary on its significance.
• Self-guided tour of Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms, with an audio guide enhancing the experience.
• Meet at Waterloo Place, near the statue of Edward VII, with easy access via Tube.
• The tour lasts 3.5 hours and includes entrance to Buckingham Palace and a guided ceremony.
• No hotel pickup, food, or drinks are included, and photography is not allowed inside the palace.
• The tour reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and the exclusivity of private-guided experiences.

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics in London

The tour begins at Waterloo Place, by the Equestrian statue of Edward VII. Participants look for the “Urban Saunters” sign and the statue of the man on a horse. For those arriving by Tube, the best option is Piccadilly Circus station, taking exit No. 3 onto Regent Street/St. James’s. From there, it’s a short walk down Regent Street to Waterloo Place.

The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making it easy to continue exploring London afterward. This central location is close to many other attractions, ideal for a full day of sightseeing.

Watching the Changing of the Guard in London’s Royal Parks

The Changing of the Guard is the highlight of the tour. The ceremony features the Old Guard handing over duty to the New Guard in a display of military precision. Dressed in bright red uniforms and their characteristic bearskin hats, the guards march to a stirring musical accompaniment.

Your guide ensures you have good vantage points and explains the ceremony’s history and symbolism. They point out details such as the marching movements, the significance of the band, and the tradition behind this royal ritual. This ceremony offers a vivid window into the daily life of the British monarchy’s military protectors.

Self-Guided Tour of Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms

After the ceremony, visitors are free to explore Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms independently. These rooms are open to the public only during July, August, and September, making this tour an excellent chance to see them. Inside, you’ll find spectacular furnishings, artworks, and gifts from Heads of State.

An official Palace Audio Tour accompanies the visit, providing insightful commentary about the history, art, and purpose of each room. Notably, you can visit the Palace Gardens, a sprawling 16-hectare space where Queen Elizabeth hosted her famous tea parties. This part of the experience offers a rare look into the royal residence’s luxurious interior and grounds.

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What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour package covers guided Changing of the Guard with an English-speaking guide and entrance to Buckingham Palace for a self-guided visit with an audio guide. The guide’s commentary is praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, making even the busy ceremony informative.

There’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, and guests should bring passport or ID and comfortable shoes. Since no photography is allowed inside the palace, visitors should focus on absorbing the artwork and furnishings. The walking involved means this tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience appeals to those with an interest in British royal traditions and history. The combination of a guided ceremony and self-guided palace visit offers a balanced, flexible way to explore. The price point is reasonable for access to Buckingham Palace’s interior, especially during the short window when it’s open to the public.

Reviewers consistently remark on the quality of the guides, who are extremely knowledgeable. This tour is ideal for visitors who want a structured, informative experience but also enjoy some independence during their palace exploration.

Physical and Practical Considerations

Travelers should be prepared for a good amount of walking, especially during the palace visit and around the ceremony area. The tour is not suitable for visitors with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the physical requirements. Also, cameras and video recording inside the palace are not permitted, so plan to take photos outside or admire the interiors without a camera in hand.

How This Tour Compares to Other London Royal Experiences

Compared to other options, this tour offers a combination of guided ceremony and self-guided palace access, which is unique. It’s more flexible than fully guided tours inside the palace, providing the chance to browse at your own pace.

While it does not include lunch or transportation, the central meeting point makes it easy to incorporate into a full day of sightseeing. The price is competitive, especially considering the entrance fee to the palace and the guided nature of the ceremony.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

You can reserve your spot in advance and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility allows for planning around other activities or changing schedules.

Final Thoughts on the Changing of the Guard and Buckingham Palace Tour

This experience is best suited for those looking to see royal traditions in action and visit Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms without the need for a full-day tour. The expert guides and self-guided access combine to make a well-organized, engaging outing.

While you’ll need to be comfortable walking, the tour offers great value for access to iconic London sights and an up-close look at royal ceremonies. It’s a thoughtful choice for visitors who want a balanced mix of guided explanation and personal exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
It is suitable for most visitors, but the walking distance and the formal nature of the ceremony and palace visit may be less appealing to very young children. The tour involves quite a bit of walking, so plan accordingly.

Do I need to bring my passport or ID?
Yes, you should bring your passport or ID card for verification purposes.

Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?
No, photography inside the palace is not allowed. You can take photos outside the palace grounds or of the exterior.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the amount of walking involved. Dress appropriately for the weather, as much of the ceremony is outdoors.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired or wheelchair users because of the physical demands and walking involved.

How do I find the meeting point?
Look for the Equestrian statue of Edward VII at Waterloo Place, by the “Urban Saunters” sign. It’s easily accessible via the Piccadilly Circus Tube station.

This tour offers a practical and memorable way to witness London’s royal pageantry and explore the home of the British monarch — an experience that combines tradition, history, and personal discovery.

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