Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour

Explore London’s Royal Traditions and Iconic Landmarks for Just $24.79

The Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to London’s most celebrated royal sights for a very accessible price of $24.79 per person. This 2-hour and 15-minute guided walk is perfect for visitors who want to see the Changing of the Guard, view distinctive palaces, and explore Westminster’s historic sites without the hassle of navigating on their own. The tour departs from Green Park at 10:00 am and features a mobile ticket for easy access.

What makes this tour stand out is the expertise of the guides, who excel at positioning guests for the best views of the changing guards, whether at Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade. The tour’s pace is brisk but well-structured, ensuring you catch key moments and learn fascinating facts along the way. While it doesn’t include inside entrance fees, it offers an excellent overview of London’s royal and parliamentary highlights.

One notable aspect is the highly positive reviews, with a 4.6 out of 5 rating based on 219 reviews and 91% recommending it. Travelers frequently praise the knowledgeable guides, the stunning photo opportunities, and the efficient timing that allows seeing multiple sights in a short amount of time. The tour is especially suited for those who appreciate guided commentary and want to maximize their experience with expert insights.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-paced guided tour focusing on the Changing of the Guard and royal landmarks
• Expert guides expertly position guests for prime views of guards, horses, and royal residences
• Stops include Buckingham Palace, St. James’ Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square
• Tour covers historic sites such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Downing Street
• No inside access to attractions or food/drink included, emphasizing outdoor sightseeing and photo ops
• The tour operates rain or shine, with contingency plans for weather-related cancellations

Discovering Royal London and Palaces

The tour begins with a walk through Royal London, where it showcases St. James’ Palace, Clarence House, and Buckingham Palace. The highlight is the Changing of the Guard, where you get to see the traditional ceremony, either at Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade, depending on the schedule. The guide’s skill in positioning ensures you have the best vantage points to witness this iconic event close-up.

If you’re lucky, you’ll see the Queen’s footguards march down the Mall, sometimes riding impressive horses of the Household Cavalry. The first stop is complemented by a leisurely stroll through St. James’ Royal Park, giving a chance to enjoy the peaceful surroundings after the lively guard change. This part of the tour typically lasts about an hour and is completely free of charge.

The guides are praised for their ability to connect historical facts with current events, making this part of the tour both educational and entertaining. They also provide tips for capturing great photos of the guards and the royal residences, which many visitors find particularly useful.

Westminster’s Historic Sights and Political Landmarks

Following the royal sights, the tour moves through Westminster, a district that’s been at the center of British history for centuries. The group passes Churchill’s War Rooms, an underground museum that offers insight into Winston Churchill’s leadership during WWII, before heading to Westminster Abbey.

Westminster Abbey has hosted every royal coronation since 1066 and remains one of the most significant religious sites in England. The guide emphasizes its gothic architecture and historical importance, but the tour stops outside, so inside visits are not included.

Guests also explore Parliament Square, admiring statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Abraham Lincoln, and Winston Churchill. The iconic Big Ben towers above the Houses of Parliament, offering a prime photo backdrop. The group then moves to 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s residence, renowned worldwide, though it’s not accessible for interior visits.

The guide provides entertaining anecdotes and historical context, enhancing the outdoor sightseeing experience. The entire Westminster segment lasts around 1 hour and 10 minutes, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.

Watching the Changing of the Guard: Schedule and Tips

The Changing of the Guard is the tour’s centerpiece. Depending on the day, the ceremony is either at Buckingham Palace (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) or Horse Guards Parade (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday). The guides excel at timing arrivals to ensure the group is in the ideal spot to witness the event.

Guests get to see the Queen’s Footguards or Horse Guards in action, with the guide’s strategic positioning allowing for excellent close-up views despite crowds. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s expertise makes it possible to see the entire process without missing key moments, even with limited time.

The tour offers valuable tips on how to photograph the guards and horses, and how to spot subtle signals like the flag flying from Buckingham Palace to indicate the presence of the monarch. As the ceremony operates at the discretion of the British Army, it can sometimes be canceled due to bad weather or schedule changes, but the guide’s flexibility often allows for seeing the Changing of the King’s Horse Guards on days when the foot guards are unavailable.

Highlights at Trafalgar Square and Nelson’s Column

The tour concludes at Trafalgar Square, one of London’s most recognizable public spaces. Here, Nelson’s Column dominates the square, providing a dramatic finish to the sightseeing walk.

The short 5-minute stop allows visitors to enjoy the lively atmosphere around the square and take photos of the column and surrounding fountains. It’s an ideal spot for a brief rest or to reflect on the sights seen earlier in the tour. This final stop is entirely free and accessible, making it a relaxed way to cap off the experience.

Logistics, Meeting Point, and Group Size

The tour starts at Colicci Ritz Corner in Green Park, identified as Stop H, with the meeting point easy to access via public transportation. The maximum group size is 35 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social interaction and individual attention from guides.

The tour operates rain or shine, with public toilets available midway. It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes due to the brisk pace and outdoor nature of the sightseeing. The tour ends at a different location from the starting point, allowing for flexible plans afterward.

The Guides and Their Role in Making the Tour Memorable

Multiple reviewers mention guides named John, Peter, Alan, Harry, and James, all praised for their knowledge, humor, and personable style. Guides are adept at moving the group efficiently to key vantage points, often anticipating schedule changes like VE Celebrations or Palace events.

Many reviews highlight how the guides bring history to life with colorful stories and interesting facts, making the experience both fun and educational. Their ability to connect with different audiences, including children, enhances the overall enjoyment and makes this tour a memorable part of a London visit.

The Sum Up: A Well-Organized and Informative Tour

The Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour offers a cost-effective, guided outdoor experience with knowledgeable guides who excel at timing and positioning. It is ideal for visitors wanting to see the most iconic royal sights and witness the classic guard ceremony with ease.

While it doesn’t include inside visits, the outdoor focus, combined with expert commentary and prime photo opportunities, makes it a valuable addition to any London itinerary. The tour’s positive reviews and high recommendation rate reflect its quality, especially for those interested in royal traditions and historic architecture.

Visitors should plan to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fast-paced walk, but the experience rewards with stunning views and the chance to see the King and guards up close. This tour delivers a rich snapshot of London’s royal and political heart in just over two hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Changing of the Guard included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes witnessing the Changing of the Guard, either at Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade, depending on the schedule.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to book about 21 days in advance to secure your spot, especially during busy travel periods.

Does the tour include inside visits to palaces or museums?
No, this tour is focused on outdoor sightseeing and does not include entrance fees or inside access to attractions.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised because the tour involves a brisk pace and walking outdoors in various weather conditions.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less notice results in no refund, so plan accordingly.

This guided walk of London’s royal highlights combines efficiency, expert guidance, and prime photo opportunities to create a memorable experience for visitors eager to witness some of the UK’s most cherished traditions.