Buckingham Palace Visit & Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Exploring London’s Royal and Historic Sites Made Easy

Whether you’re visiting London for the first time or hoping to tick off some of the city’s most famous landmarks, the Buckingham Palace Visit & Changing of the Guard Walking Tour offers a balanced blend of ceremony, history, and insider stories. This approximately 3.5-hour experience is designed to give you a close-up view of British traditions and rare access to one of the UK’s most iconic royal residences.

What truly stands out about this tour is the small-group setting—it ensures you get personalized attention from your guide, making it easier to absorb stories and ask questions. The highlight, of course, is witnessing the Changing of the Guard, a spectacle that encapsulates British pomp and pageantry. After that, you’re given the chance to explore Buckingham Palace’s stunning State Rooms with an audio guide, which adds depth and context to your visit.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour moves at a brisk pace, especially when tracking the guards, so comfortable shoes and water are essentials. Also, since the inside of Buckingham Palace is only open to the public during a limited two months each year, tickets are in high demand. This tour provides a fantastic value, considering it includes both the guard ceremony and self-guided palace access—all for under $100.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic, well-organized tours with expert guides and want a balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and a bit of royal glamor. If you’re after a comprehensive introduction to Westminster and Buckingham Palace, this is a smart choice.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (max 15) ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd.
• Comprehensive Tour: Combines the iconic Changing of the Guard with rare inside access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Chris, Nathan, and others are praised for their knowledge, wit, and ability to connect history with modern-day London.
• Prime Photo Opportunities: The tour gets you close enough for memorable snapshots without the crowd congestion typical near the Palace’s forecourt.
• High Demand & Value: Tickets at $98.69 are considered a good deal given the insider stories and access, especially given the limited days the Palace opens each year.
• Weather & Pace: The tour operates in all weather conditions; sturdy shoes and readiness for a brisk pace are recommended.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point & First Impressions

The tour kicks off at the Equestrian statue of Edward in St. James’s Park, a location that’s both scenic and central. From here, you’ll start with a walk past some of London’s most recognizable royal and historic sites, setting the scene before the main event: the Changing of the Guard.

The Changing of the Guard

This is often the headline of the tour, and for good reason. With just a small group, you get a front-row experience of this ceremonial tradition, which has roots stretching back centuries. The Guards, in their iconic bearskin hats and red tunics, march with precision, accompanied by a military band (though note that music can be canceled if weather or security arrangements change). One reviewer praised the entertaining commentary of Nathan, highlighting how he kept the group engaged and provided context about the ceremony’s significance.

The experience lasts about 90 minutes, during which your guide will explain the protocol, history, and symbolism behind each movement. Importantly, the tour avoids the crowds at the Palace’s forecourt, positioning you closer to the action for better photos and a more intimate vantage point.

St. James’s Palace & Clarence House

Next, you’ll visit St. James’s Palace, the oldest royal residence still in official use, built on the site of a former leper hospital. As the oldest royal palace in the UK, it’s packed with history—though you won’t go inside, the guide will share stories that add a layer of appreciation for this historic building.

Just a short walk away is Clarence House, the residence of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. While you won’t get inside, the exterior and surrounding grounds are photo-worthy, and your guide will fill you in on its royal connections and recent history.

Inside Buckingham Palace

The highlight for many is the visit to Buckingham Palace. While guides are not permitted inside, the tour offers a self-guided audio experience that turns this visit into an enriching exploration. Once inside, you’ll wander through the opulent State Rooms, marvel at the gifts from foreign leaders, and admire the exquisite furnishings and artworks.

The audio guide, included in the ticket, helps you understand the significance of each room and pieces of art, making the visit more meaningful rather than just a stroll through fancy rooms. Don’t forget to make time for the Palace Gardens, a sprawling 16-hectare area often missed by casual visitors.

Tour Duration & Practical Tips

The combined tour duration is around 3 hours 30 minutes, but the inside Palace visit is about 90 minutes alone. The overall pacing is brisk—expect to walk quickly between sites, so comfortable shoes are a must. The tour concludes inside Buckingham Palace, where you can continue exploring at your own pace using the provided audio guide.

Since the Palace is only open to the public for two months a year (August and September), securing tickets through this tour offers a rare opportunity that’s highly valued by travelers.

What Our Reviewers Say & Why It Matters

Many reviewers highlight the expertise of the guides—names like Chris, Nathan, and Slawek are mentioned for their engaging storytelling and local knowledge. One reviewer noted that their guide provided a “quick political and social history of England,” which added depth to the visit.

The view of the Guard ceremony was described as “fantastic” and “full of interesting historical tidbits.” Several reviewers appreciated the strategic placement, avoiding crowds and allowing for better photos, which is often hard near Buckingham Palace during busy days.

The value for money is also a recurring theme. At around $98, the tour includes both the guard-changing experience and inside Palace access, which usually costs much more if booked separately. The added benefit of a guided experience with insider stories makes this a smart choice for those who want authentic, well-organized sightseeing.

Considerations & Practical Notes

The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is essential. Since there are no scheduled breaks for food or drinks, bringing water is advisable, especially during warmer days. The pace is quick, and the group size is small, so be prepared to keep up.

While the tour doesn’t include additional sites like Westminster Abbey or other attractions, it offers a focused and immersive look at the core royal sites. The timing can also be affected if the British Army alters or cancels the ceremony—though the tour is designed to proceed in most weather conditions, and cancellations are rare.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This experience offers a rare glimpse into the ceremonial side of British royalty and the opportunity to step inside Buckingham Palace—something most visitors can only dream of. The combination of a guided guard change, rich commentary, and inside access provides a layered and engaging day out.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want a rundown without feeling overwhelmed by navigating solo. The guided aspect ensures you’ll catch the details that often go unnoticed, making it educational and fun.

For families or groups, the small-group format fosters interaction and personalized attention, which can make the visit more memorable. And if you’re a history buff, the insider stories and background add a depth that broadens your understanding of London’s royal culture.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but be aware that you’ll be walking briskly and moving between sites. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

How long does the Buckingham Palace visit last?
The self-guided audio tour inside the Palace lasts about 90 minutes. The overall tour duration is around 3 hours 30 minutes.

Are the tickets for Buckingham Palace included?
Yes, the entrance tickets to Buckingham Palace are included in the price.

Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?
You can take photos outside and in the Gardens, but photography inside the State Rooms may be restricted.

What happens if the Changing of the Guard is canceled?
If the ceremony is canceled or altered due to weather or security, the tour will still go ahead, and you’ll see the guards marching without music.

Is this tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Yes, the schedule is designed to give you a good overview, but if you want to spend more time inside the Palace or exploring the Gardens, plan accordingly.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 93 days in advance, reflecting its popularity, especially during the Palace’s open months.

In closing, this tour offers an engaging, well-organized way to see London’s royal sights with knowledgeable guides, insider stories, and the chance to step inside Buckingham Palace—an experience that combines tradition with authentic storytelling. Perfect for first-timers, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a memorable day exploring Britain’s regal heart.