Buckingham Palace Visit & Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

The Buckingham Palace Visit & Changing of the Guard Walking Tour offers an engaging two-in-one experience in London for just $98.69 per person. With a rating of 5.0 based on 31 reviews, this tour is highly recommended by 97% of participants and is designed for those eager to see royal sights without spending a full day. Lasting approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, it combines an up-close view of the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony with a self-guided exploration of Buckingham Palace using an audio guide.

Since it’s booked on average 93 days in advance, it’s clear this experience appeals to visitors planning ahead. The tour offers small group sizes—capped at 15 travelers—ensuring personalized attention from your local expert guide. This tour suits first-time visitors keen to see key landmarks with insider stories, especially those interested in experiencing Buckingham Palace rarely open to the public.

Key Points

• Two-in-one experience: Watch the Changing of the Guard and explore Buckingham Palace inside.
• Expert guided tour: Led by knowledgeable guides who share insider facts and stories.
• Self-guided audio tour: Get inside the Palace and enjoy the State Rooms at your own pace.
• Location highlights: Stops include St. James’s Palace and Clarence House, providing broader royal context.
• Convenient logistics: Starts at Edward St. James’s statue and ends inside Buckingham Palace, with comfortable walking and recommendations to wear sturdy shoes.
• Weatherproof and flexible: Operates rain or shine; cancellations are possible only with good weather or minimum participants.

From the Changing of the Guard to the Royal Residences

The tour begins with a guided viewing of the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a classic British spectacle. Over 1 hour and 30 minutes, you witness the precision and pageantry of the guards’ march, a highlight for many visitors. The small group setting means you get closer to the guards and can capture great photos without the large crowds often found in this area.

Following this, the tour leads to St. James’s Palace, the oldest royal palace in the UK, built on the site of an old leper hospital. Although visiting inside requires separate tickets, the external architecture and historic significance make it a worthwhile stop. The guide enhances the experience by sharing stories about its long-standing role as an official royal residence.

Next, the itinerary includes a brief visit to Clarence House, the home of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. This residence’s exterior is the focus here, providing insights into current royal life and the history tied to this elegant building.

Exploring Buckingham Palace with a Self-Guided Audio Tour

The most anticipated part of the tour is the self-guided exploration of Buckingham Palace. The audio guide allows visitors to wander through the State Rooms, viewing spectacular furnishings, artworks, and gifts from Heads of State. The 16-hectare Palace Gardens are also accessible during this time, offering a rare chance to see the landscaped grounds.

While guides do not speak inside the Palace, their stories beforehand set the scene, making the experience both educational and visually impressive. The palace’s interior is open to the public only two months a year in August and September, so this tour provides a valuable opportunity to see its opulence during the most accessible period.

Travelers should note that, due to crowds, the tour avoids standing at the Palace forecourt—this ensures you get close-up views and plenty of photo opportunities. The audio guide lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy the rooms without feeling rushed.

Practical Details for the Tour Participants

The meeting point is at the Equestrian statue of Edward on St. James’s, and the tour concludes inside Buckingham Palace. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is advised. Participants are recommended to wear comfortable shoes and carry water, due to the moderate physical activity involved and the pace of the tour.

There are no food, drink, or transport costs included, and no toilet breaks are scheduled, so plan accordingly. Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change due to weather or other reasons.

The Role of the Guide and Overall Experience

Guides such as Chris, Nathan, and Slawek receive praise for their knowledge, wit, and engaging storytelling. They introduce visitors to political, social, and historical aspects of Westminster, Parliament, and the royal residences, enriching the sightseeing with interesting tidbits.

The small group size ensures a more personal experience, with many reviewers highlighting the guides’ friendliness and expertise. The pace of the tour is described as brisk, designed to keep up with the guards’ movements, so visitors should wear sturdy, comfortable shoes.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for first-time London visitors who want a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to the city’s royal sights. It’s perfect for those interested in ceremonial traditions and royal history, as well as travelers who appreciate guided commentary combined with self-exploration.

Since tickets to Buckingham Palace are in high demand, especially during August and September, booking well in advance is recommended. The small group size and personal attention make it a comfortable option for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an immersive, well-organized tour.

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard Tour: Final Wrap-up

This 3.5-hour tour offers a balanced mix of spectacle, history, and personal exploration at London’s most iconic royal sights. The combination of an insider guide and self-guided audio tour makes it a flexible and captivating way to experience the Changing of the Guard and inside Buckingham Palace.

The cost provides good value given the exclusive access to the Palace’s State Rooms and the attention to detail in storytelling. Despite the quick pace, the tour’s structure ensures you see the highlights while also enjoying the informative commentary from experienced guides.

This tour is a smart choice for those looking to maximize their time in London and gain a personalized understanding of the royal landmarks, with the convenience of organized logistics and clear landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Buckingham Palace outside of this tour?
Yes, but the Palace is open to the public only during August and September, making this tour a rare chance to explore its State Rooms and Gardens at that time.

Is the Changing of the Guard ceremony included in the tour?
Absolutely, the Changing of the Guard is the first stop, and it’s done in a guided small-group setting that allows closer views and better photos.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended because the tour involves walking and standing. Dressing appropriately for all weather conditions is advised since the tour operates rain or shine.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. The tour may be canceled due to bad weather or if minimum participants are not met.

How long is the self-guided part inside Buckingham Palace?
The audio-guided exploration lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing ample time to see the State Rooms and Gardens comfortably.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of ceremonial viewing and interior exploration in a small group atmosphere sets this tour apart, offering a personal and memorable experience of London’s royal landmarks.