London: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

An engaging way to witness a London tradition

This Changing of the Guard Walking Tour offers a lively, informative look at one of London’s most iconic ceremonies. For around an hour and a half, you’ll stroll through central London, following the footsteps of royal guards, military bands, and history buffs alike. The tour is hosted by knowledgeable guides who bring the pomp and circumstance to life with stories, insider tips, and a good dose of humor.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines visual spectacle with storytelling. Watching guards march in perfect sync, accompanied by lively bands, makes for a memorable moment—and a fantastic photo opportunity. Plus, the tour’s focus on landmarks like St. James’s Palace, The Mall, and Buckingham Palace ensures you get a meaningful context for what you’re seeing.

A minor consideration is that this tour is quite active, involving some walking and standing, which might not suit everyone—especially those with walking difficulties. That said, it’s ideal for travelers who want a deeper understanding of British traditions while enjoying a walk through historic streets. Perfect for first-timers, royal enthusiasts, or those wanting a blend of sightseeing and storytelling without breaking the bank.

Who this tour is best suited for

If you’re eager to see the Changing of the Guard while learning their history and significance, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good if you prefer guided experiences that enhance sightseeing with background stories and tips. Families, history lovers, and those on a budget will find this tour offers excellent value, while anyone looking for an authentic, stress-free way to enjoy London’s royal sights will appreciate it too.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts like Judd, Emily, and Paul make the stories engaging and memorable.
• Authentic Experience: Watch guards march in step, sometimes with music, and get a behind-the-scenes feel for the ceremony.
• Stunning Views: From Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade, expect plenty of iconic photo ops.
• Flexible, Affordable: At just under $30, this guided walk offers a cost-effective way to enjoy London’s royal traditions.
• In-Depth Commentary: Guides share insightful background about the guards, royal history, and military symbolism, adding context to what you see.
• Well-Reviewed: With a 4.7-star rating from over 400 reviews, most travelers find it a worthwhile experience.

A detailed look at what to expect

Starting point at Piccadilly Circus

Your adventure begins outside the Criterion Theatre, next to the famous Statue of Eros. Meeting here is straightforward, and the location is lively enough to start your day with energy. Your guide will introduce the history and significance of the Changing of the Guard, setting the stage for what’s to come.

The walk along The Mall and nearby landmarks

From Piccadilly, you’ll head toward The Mall, passing by Pall Mall and Waterloo Place. These streets are historically tied to British military and royal activities. Here, your guide will briefly cover the Duke of Wellington and the British Army’s history, making the walk both educational and scenic.

Expect to see impressive monuments to royals and generals, along with views of St. James’s Park and the open space of Horse Guards Parade. These spots are not only picture-perfect but also historically significant, offering insight into London’s royal and military heritage.

Watching the guards at St. James’s Palace

One of the tour highlights is witnessing the inspection of the guards at St. James’s Palace. Here, the guards emerge from the palace, often in full uniform, for a ceremonial inspection. Guides usually point out details about their attire, history, and role, which enhances the experience beyond just a visual spectacle.

Marching to Buckingham Palace

The real thrill begins when you get to march in step with the guards as they leave St. James’s Palace en route to Buckingham Palace. If you’re lucky, the ceremonial band will be playing, adding a lively soundtrack to the march. Several reviewers have noted guides like Emily and Jamie who make this segment interactive and fun. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide, Jamie, did a great job, telling us exactly where to stand for the best views and making it exciting with their commentary.”

Viewing Buckingham Palace from a prime spot

After the guards arrive, you’ll have the chance to photograph Buckingham Palace from a raised platform, capturing the grandeur of the residence. This spot is selected for its optimal angles, allowing visitors to snap memorable shots of the palace and the marching guards.

The parade and band performance

The tour concludes with the band playing in the palace courtyard and the cavalry marching past. The musical accompaniment and parade movements create a festive atmosphere, making it a lively finish to the experience. Guides often help guests find the best position to observe the parade, ensuring everyone leaves with great photos and impressions.

What’s included and what to consider

The tour fee of $29.63 includes a charming guide who will escort you through the sights, explain the history, and ensure you get the best viewpoints. It’s a well-priced experience considering the depth of storytelling and the chance to see the ceremony up close.

However, food and drinks are not included, so plan to grab a snack beforehand or afterward. Also, the tour doesn’t include entry to the interior of Buckingham Palace, which would require arriving early and paying extra. That’s worth noting if you’re a royal palace aficionado wanting an inside look.

Practicalities

• The tour lasts about 105 minutes, so comfortable shoes are essential.
• Meeting outside the Criterion Theatre at Piccadilly Circus is convenient and central.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with walking difficulties, as it involves some marching and standing.
• It’s best to arrive on time because the tour starts promptly, and latecomers won’t receive a refund.

Flexibility and cancellations

Booking with Fun London Tours, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, booking now and paying later makes it easier to fit into your travel plans without immediate financial commitment.

Authentic reviews and insights

Many travelers emphasize the guides’ skill in making history come alive. Judd, Emily, and Paul are often praised for their enthusiasm, humor, and extensive knowledge. One reviewer even called Emily “amazing” and “fun,” highlighting her ability to keep the group engaged.

Several reviews mention the excellent spots chosen by guides to get the best photos of the guards and palace. “Our guide, Alex, was very helpful and made the tour fun,” said a happy guest, while another mentioned how their guide, Rosie, “took us to the perfect location to see the guards.”

The value for money is consistently noted, especially given the comprehensive nature of the walk and the personal insights shared. Many travelers felt it was well worth the price, with some saying it exceeded their expectations.

The Sum Up

This Changing of the Guard Walking Tour offers a lively, educational, and visually stunning way to experience a cherished London tradition. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided storytelling, want to see iconic landmarks, and enjoy a bit of royal pageantry without the hassle of navigating crowds alone.

The tour’s focus on storytelling and insider tips, combined with the chance to march alongside guards and bands, makes it a memorable addition to any London itinerary. While it’s best suited for those able to walk comfortably and stay outdoors for a while, its affordability and high ratings make it a top pick for first-time visitors, history buffs, and budget travelers.

If you’re after an engaging, authentic glimpse into British traditions, this tour delivers a wonderful mix of spectacle and storytelling—and you’ll leave with plenty of photos and stories to share.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews highlight the engaging nature of guides and the visual spectacle, making it a fun experience for families. Just note that it involves some walking, so children should be able to handle that comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 105 minutes, covering the march, sightseeing stops, and commentary along the route.

Where do I meet the guide?
Outside the Criterion Theatre, next to the Statue of Eros at Piccadilly Circus.

Does the tour include inside access to Buckingham Palace?
No, the tour focuses on the exterior and ceremonial parts; inside visits require separate tickets and early arrival.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and marching involved.

Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted, except for guide dogs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s walking involved, and expect to be outdoors for most of the tour.

In brief, this tour offers a lively, well-organized, and affordable way to see the Changing of the Guard, learn about British royal traditions, and enjoy London’s historic streets. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it provides a memorable, photo-worthy experience that highlights London’s regal splendor without breaking the bank.