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Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour

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Group Size

Max 12

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Tour Duration

2 Hours

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100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

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Free Cancellation up to 24 hrs

Highlights of the tour

Highlights generally include: 

• Trafalgar Square— discover London's most famous public square, a historic gathering place named after Britain's greatest naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar (1805). 

• Changing of the Guard Parade— experience this centuries-old military tradition as the King's Guards march from St. James's Palace to Wellington Barracks, dressed in full ceremonial uniform. 

• St. James's Palace (Exterior Only)— see Britain's oldest royal palace, built by Henry VIII in the 1530s, which remains an active residence and holds official royal events to this day. 

• Horse Guards Parade— watch the formal guard inspection at the Horse Guards Parade, where the Household Cavalry maintains a 365-day-a-year presence, protecting royal residences.


Details

Experience one of Britain's most iconic traditions on this private walking tour through historic Westminster. 

With an expert guide, uncover the history behind the Changing of the Guard Ceremony as you witness this spectacular display of pageantry and precision. Begin in the monumental Trafalgar Square, then follow the Royal Guard as they march in full ceremonial dress, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of military drums. Admire their perfectly groomed horses and distinctive uniforms- scarlet tunics and towering bearskin hats-as you pass through Admiralty Arch, past St. James's Palace, the most senior royal residence in Britain, and onto the historic parade grounds. Your guide will share stories of Britain's most revered monarchs as the New Guard replaces the Old Guard in this centuries-old tradition. Conclude your tour with views of Buckingham Palace, where the guards arrive at their final post.

This tour offers a captivating glimpse into Britain's royal heritage, blending history, ceremony, and spectacle. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a fan of royal traditions, or simply looking for a quintessential London experience, the Changing of the Guard is a must-see event that brings the city's royal past to life.


Itinerary

  • Stops generally include but are not limited to
  • Trafalgar Square — one of London's most famous public squares, Trafalgar Square commemorates Britain's victory at the Battle of Trafalgar (1805). Over the centuries, it has been a hub for celebrations, protests, and public gatherings, standing as a symbol of British resilience. 10 minutes
  • Nelson's Column — dominating the square, Nelson's Column honors Admiral Horatio Nelson, the legendary naval commander who died leading Britain to victory at Trafalgar. The column is guarded by four bronze lions, sculpted from melted-down French cannons captured in battle. 10 minutes
  • Admiralty Arch — an elegant gateway between The Mall and Trafalgar Square, Admiralty Arch was commissioned by King Edward VII in honor of Queen Victoria. Once a government building, it remains a striking symbol of London's imperial past. 10 minutes
  • Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall —the highlight of the tour, Horse Guards Parade is home to the Household Cavalry, who stand guard at the official entrance to St. James's Palace and Buckingham Palace. Watch as the mounted sentries in full ceremonial dress carry out their precise and time-honored inspection, a tradition dating back to 1660. 1 hour
  • St. James's Park — London's oldest Royal Park, St. James's Park offers stunning views of Buckingham Palace and is known for its picturesque lake, resident pelicans, and beautifully maintained flower beds. 10 minutes
  • Clarence House (Exterior Only) —a historic royal residence, Clarence House was home to Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother for nearly 50 years and later became the official residence of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. 10 minutes
  • Buckingham Palace (Exterior Only) - — the final stop is Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch. Stand before the grand gates, admire the famous balcony where the Royal Family greets the public, and witness the conclusion of the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a display of precision, discipline, and centuries-old tradition. 10 minutes

Inclusion

• PRIVATE WALKING TOUR

• PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDE

• DURATION: 2 HOURS

• TOUR WILL RUN, RAIN OR SHINE


Semi-Private Tour

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What Our Customers Say

Professional, informative & FUN!
jewelilowe 5 contributions

Professional, informative & FUN!

Becky was the absolute best tour guide. She gave us a front row seat to every aspect of the changing of the guard process. We learned so many facts and details that we had no idea about. Becky knows what she is doing and navigated us thru crowds so we had the best vantage point. I would highly recommend this tour!!

08 May 2024

Great visit around the city
Penny S 1 contributions

Great visit around the city

Andy did an excellent job of getting me around Buckingham Palace to see many different views of the changing of the guards. He even managed to see some unusual activity and out popped King Charles leaving Clarence House

15 May 2024

A great town- highly recommended!
Robert H 3 contributions

A great town- highly recommended!

Andi did a wonderful job guiding this tour. We saw several guard changes and had prime spots for every change. also learned a lot about the history of London and England. Highly recommend.

15 July 2024

GREAT GUIDE! Changing of the Guard
Amy G 4 contributions

GREAT GUIDE! Changing of the Guard

Our tour guide was amazing! He was punctual, VERY knowledgeable (original ‘Londoner’), and loved sharing fun and interesting tidbits of info on the city he loves so very much. He is a younger guy that dressed professionally and was very fun and personable.

30 August 2024

Great experience in London
BakerySquad 22 contributions

Great experience in London

Highly recommended tour. Andi was very knowledgeable, incredibly friendly and made this day very pleasant. He knew how to pace this even with the big crowds. Relaxing and fun way of watching the changing of the guards. Easy walking.

03 April 2025

Changing of the Guard with Jamie
Dan S 2 contributions

Changing of the Guard with Jamie

Jamie was fantastic. Easily navigated the crowds to quiet places where we could listen to him share tales of the history of Britain, it’s Royal families, and the various palaces and buildings we passed along the way. Big highlight was watching the finish of the Changing of the Guard at St. James Palace. We were expertly positioned right up front and center. Jamie was a fantastic host and, if you take a tour, you should request him.

11 April 2025

The Perfect Way To Experience Changing of the Guards
Raza S 1 contributions

The Perfect Way To Experience Changing of the Guards

Becky was absolutely amazing! She was energetic and engaging. Everyone from the kids to grandparents had a wonderful time. She had us in the best spots possible for every part of the tour allowing us to maximize our views/photos/etc. We wish we were able to do all of our tours in London with her!

16 April 2025

Amazing Tour
Janet M 1 contributions

Amazing Tour

Laurence was an amazing tour guide! He was very knowledgeable about all the sites and was extremely funny. My husband and I had a great time on our tour and would do it again the next time we are in London!

31 May 2025

Must see tour with Becky L!!
Patrice L 5 contributions

Must see tour with Becky L!!

Wow!!! Becky L was just amazing!! We learned so much about the changing of the guard! Got our steps in too!! ? As an American I highly recommend this tour! Our family had no idea of the intricacies of the changing of the guard and surly would have missed most of all the happenings!! Even our 8 year old enjoyed moving around the city following the guards!

12 June 2025

Guards views
Paul B 13 contributions

Guards views

Great history discussion and got us to good points to see the guards as well. Explained the different regiments involved well. Thank you Lucy

29 June 2025

Pleasant experience
Brett J 4 contributions

Pleasant experience

Change of the gaurds was really nice with the tour guide Luis. Luis was very knowledgeable and pointed out precise vantage points to view the gaurds

21 May 2022

A must do!
jennfera2016 3 contributions

A must do!

Worth every penny! Our guide got us to all the key spots for great photo ops and great memories. One of the best tours I’ve taken.

20 June 2022

Fantastic tour
Mary M 2 contributions

Fantastic tour

Becky, our tour guide, was fantastic. She pitched the tour and information just right for our mixed-age group (including our teens who were feeling over-museum-ed at this phase of the vacation). She knew the best spots to view and connected the history with the contemporary landscape for the Royals, all while making sure we understood each detail and nuance of the ceremony. A must do!

22 July 2022

Outstanding tour
darrylwhl 35 contributions

Outstanding tour

There is no question that Becky provided one of the best Experiences we have ever had touring anywhere in the world. Her personality knowledge and delivery was more than excellent and we thank you for a very enjoyable two hours

27 July 2022

Best Changing of the Guard
David H 2 contributions

Best Changing of the Guard

Excellent private tour. Our guide was former military and very knowledgeable. He knew the best places to stand for the best view.

05 November 2022

London tour
Betty H 2 contributions

London tour

Wonderful tour guide! Jo was phenomenal!I so suggest her! Her timing of events was impeccable and her knowledge was on point with great information.

11 May 2023

Awesome Private Changing if Guard Walking Tour
smo12345 32 contributions

Awesome Private Changing if Guard Walking Tour

Our tour guide, Becky, was amazing. Prompt, organized and very very knowledgeable. She was able to explain ALL aspects of the Changing if the Guard process not just the part taking place at Buckingham Palace. We got to see and experience parts of the process that we could never do on our own. In addition she ‘knew the ropes’ and made sure we had great viewing points and access and explain the process every step of the way! You might be able to do it cheaper but I doubt you could do it better than this tour. 100% recommend.

29 April 2024

Excelent tour
Wanderer47237172362 1 contributions

Excelent tour

Excellent guide and tour with Andy. He took us to all the great spots to watch the change of guards and a little bit of history.

16 July 2024

Changing of the Guards
Stephanie H 3 contributions

Changing of the Guards

Our guide was passionate and knowledgable about the history on London and took us on a very informative and interesting tour. We had an excellent time!

11 November 2024

Our guide Andy was incredible. As a PhD he was totally versed in every aspect of the history- much of it beyond the tour
Dennis P 6 contributions

Our guide Andy was incredible. As a PhD he was totally versed in every aspect of the history- much of it beyond the tour

Andy our guide was incredible- having a PhD he knows history- much of what he shared was beyond the scope of the tour. Andy knew exactly where to be and when to be there to obtain the maximum viewing of guards and the band. Truly wonderful experience- thanks to Andy.

08 August 2025

FAQ's

Please arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.

Yes! All tickets for the permanent collection are included and organized by Babylon Tours.

Your guide will be wearing a Babylon badge on a Babylon lanyard. They will also reach out to you on the morning of the tour to confirm the meeting point.

Your guide will reach out to you the morning of the tour by text and email. Please ensure you have provided your correct telephone number (including country code) and email beforehand. Please be sure to check your SPAM folder if you don't see the email in your inbox.

No, Viator is a booking platform and Online Travel Agent. They sell our tours, but we are Babylon Tours, a Tour Operator currently offering tours in 12 major cities worldwide!

Yes! You can reschedule free of charge if you notify us at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. For rescheduling within 24 hours, a fee applies to cover guide payments, unused tickets, and company costs (no profit is made on this fee). If you booked through a booking platform like Viator or GetYourGuide, you must reschedule directly with them.

Please inform your guide as soon as possible. As this is a semi-private tour, it must start on time. If your tour is ticketed, the guide will reply to your message with the tickets so you can enter the museum or monument on your own and try to join the guide inside if possible. Please note that once the tour begins, the guide will not be able to regularly check their phone.

Please let us know immediately by email to babylontoursinfo@gmail.com or by texting or calling +1 917 999 0380. Our refund policy does not cover medical issues that arise within 24 hours of the tour's start. In such cases, please contact your travel insurance provider. We can provide a document confirming you were unable to attend.

Please let us know immediately by email to babylontoursinfo@gmail.com or by texting or calling +1 917 999 0380 . Our refund policy does not cover transportation issues within 24 hours of the tour's start. In such cases, please contact your travel insurance provider. We can provide a document confirming you were unable to attend.

No, as the museum is large, locating the guide inside is challenging. The guide will meet you at the designated meeting point and accompany the group inside. However, you are welcome to stay in the museum after the tour ends!

Yes, you are welcome to stay in the museum until it closes.

Yes, our tours run rain or shine. Please check the forecast and dress appropriately. Tours will only be canceled in the event of a dangerous weather alert from local authorities.

Your guide will have your tickets. As long as you bring proof of ID, the guide's name and number, and arrive at the meeting point on time, the guide will assist you with entry.

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