The London: The Changing of the Guard Tour and Buckingham Palace offers a compact but comprehensive way to experience some of the capital’s most famous sights in just 2 hours. Starting from Green Park, this guided walking tour takes you past Buckingham Palace, where you can enjoy a quick 5-minute photo stop of the royal residence. A highlight is witnessing the Changing of the Guard, which runs on specific days, giving you a chance to see this colorful parade up close. The tour continues with visits to St. James’ Park, Westminster Abbey, Parliament Square, 10 Downing Street, and Horse Guards Parade. Guided by a knowledgeable guide, this experience emphasizes the best spots to view the guards and historic landmarks, making it ideal for visitors pressed for time or those seeking an engaging overview of Royal London.

A key strength of this tour is the expert guidance from guides like John, Peter, Harry, and others, who each bring a friendly and informative touch to the experience. Their familiarity with the route and the history behind the sites ensures you get excellent vantage points for the guard changeover and a deeper understanding of London’s royal and political symbols. The tour is suitable for all ages, offering a lively, paced walk that’s carefully timed to avoid the worst crowds, especially at the guard change.

While the tour does not include inside visits to Westminster Abbey, it provides outdoor views and photo opportunities of this historic building, along with a photo stop at 10 Downing Street. The Horse Guards Parade is another highlight, especially on days when the Changing of the Guard takes place at this location instead of Buckingham Palace. It’s important to note that the Changing of the Guard only happens on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, while the Horse Guards Parade features the King’s Horse Guards on other days.

The meeting point at Diana fountain in Green Park is easy to find, with clear instructions for those arriving via the Underground at Green Park Station. The tour’s small group setup and live English guide make for a personal experience, where guides share lively anecdotes, current information, and tips for the best viewing spots. The tour duration is just 2 hours, making it convenient for travelers on a tight schedule without sacrificing key sights.

Weather considerations are important, as the Changing of the Guard is subject to weather conditions and can be canceled in rain or extreme weather. When this happens, the tour still proceeds, viewing an alternative “wet change” of the guards, ensuring that visitors still get to see this iconic ceremony. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchairs, due to the walking nature and potential crowds.

Pricing is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance. The tour includes English narration and is designed to be accessible for all ages, making it an excellent choice for families, history buffs, or first-time visitors eager to see London’s most famous sights with an expert guide.

Many of the reviews praise the guides, especially John, Peter, and Harry, for their knowledge, humor, and ability to secure the best viewing spots. Highlights include guides timing the group perfectly, sharing fun facts, and navigating crowds efficiently. The viewing experience at Buckingham Palace and the guard changeover receive particular praise, with visitors appreciating the close-up vantage points and organized approach that avoids the typical crush of crowds.

This tour offers a compact, engaging, and well-guided way to see London’s royal highlights in a short time. Its emphasis on expert guides, strategic stops, and prime viewing spots makes it a smart choice for those who want a lively overview of Royal Westminster and the Changing of the Guard. While it does not include interior visits, the outdoor views and historical commentary make it a valuable, informative experience.

Key Points

2-hour guided walking tour focusing on the Changing of the Guard and key royal sights in Westminster.
Expert guides like John, Peter, and Harry provide entertaining stories and help find the best vantage points.
Stops include Buckingham Palace, St. James’ Park, Westminster Abbey, 10 Downing Street, and Horse Guards Parade.
Changing of the Guard occurs on specific days; on others, the Horse Guards Parade features the King’s Horse Guards.
Tour departs from Diana fountain in Green Park, with easy directions and a friendly, personal group setting.
Weather can affect guard change ceremonies; in rain, the tour views the wet change, maintaining the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Westminster and Buckingham Palace: Inside or Outside?

This tour focuses on outdoor sights and ceremonial events. It does not visit interiors of Buckingham Palace or Westminster Abbey. The emphasis is on visuals, parades, and photo opportunities at the main landmarks.

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The Changing of the Guard Schedule and What to Expect

The Changing of the Guard takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Guides select the best spots to view this vibrant ceremony, which includes marching guards in traditional uniforms. When the guard change is canceled due to bad weather, the tour still offers an alternative wet change experience.

Highlights of the Tour Stops

Buckingham Palace is featured with a brief 5-minute photo stop, perfect for capturing the palace’s iconic façade. The St. James’s Park walk offers a chance to see the parakeets and pelicans, adding a touch of nature to the royal sightseeing. Westminster Abbey is admired from the outside, showcasing its 1000-year history. The Parliament Square offers views of the statues and political landmarks, while 10 Downing Street provides a memorable photo stop at the Prime Minister’s residence.

The Guide’s Role in Enhancing the Experience

Guides like John, Peter, Leigh, and Allen are often praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to secure the best spots. They share stories about the royals, politicians, and historical events, making each stop more lively and memorable. Many reviews highlight how guides manage crowds effectively, allowing everyone a good view without pushing or stress.

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Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour begins at the Goddess Diana fountain in Green Park, which is accessible via the Green Park Underground Station. The group size is kept manageable to ensure a personal experience, and the live English guide keeps commentary lively and informative.

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Weather and Cancellation Policies

The Changing of the Guard is subject to weather conditions and can be canceled or altered at short notice. On rainy days, the tour still proceeds with an alternative “wet change” of the guards. Tour cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexible planning.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors and those wanting a condensed sightseeing of Royal London. It’s perfect for families, history enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys lively guides sharing stories in a walkable outdoor setting. The 2-hour duration makes it ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary.

Final Thoughts on the Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour

For travelers aiming to enjoy London’s most iconic royal sights with expert guidance, this tour offers a lively, well-organized, and cost-effective option. The guides’ knowledge, humor, and strategic planning ensure you see the best spots for the Changing of the Guard, Buckingham Palace, and surrounding landmarks.

While it’s important to remember that interior visits are not included, and weather can affect guard ceremonies, the outdoor views, historical insights, and prime photo opportunities make this tour a worthwhile addition to any London visit.

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London: The Changing of the Guard Tour and Buckingham Palace

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include inside visits to Buckingham Palace or Westminster Abbey?
No, the tour focuses on outdoor views and ceremonies. Inside visits are not part of this experience.

When does the Changing of the Guard happen?
It takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. On Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, the tour witnesses the Horse Guards Parade instead.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at the Goddess Diana fountain in Green Park, near the Colicci refreshment stand.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, this walking tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as the outdoor activities are subject to the weather.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

How are the guides?
Reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and ability to secure the best viewing spots. Guides like John, Peter, Harry, and Allen receive particular praise.

Is there a limit to the group size?
The tour tends to have a small group, ensuring a more personal experience.

What about bad weather?
In case of rain, the guard change may be canceled, but the tour will still continue with an alternative wet change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for all ages, though mobility considerations should be noted.

How do I find the meeting point?
Look for the Diana fountain at Green Park; it is easy to locate within the park, next to the Colicci stand.

This London Changing of the Guard Tour offers a well-paced, expert-led glance at Royal London’s most famous sights, perfect for those wanting a short but informative experience focusing on ceremonies and outdoor landmarks.