4.6 (528) · London · By secret chamber tours ltd Free cancellation
Embark on an unforgettable walking tour to discover London's most iconic Royal landmarks. Witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, join the King's Guards on a march down The Mall, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Westminster Abbey, the site of coronations since 1066.
Your guide will share fascinating insights and anecdotes, ensuring you are perfectly positioned to experience the world-renowned Changing of the Guard Ceremony. Avoid the crowds and the common mistake of standing in the wrong spot.
From the shadow of Big Ben to the majestic horses of the Household Cavalry, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of London's Royal heritage.
Please review the additional information below for complete details regarding the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
✓ See the exteriors of Buckingham Palace, St. James's Palace, and Clarence House.✓ Benefit from the knowledge of an expert local guide.✓ Receive assistance with positioning for the best views of the Changing of the Guard ceremony.✓ Enjoy a guided walking tour covering Royal London and Westminster.✕ Food and beverages are not provided.✕ Gratuities for the guide are not included.✕ Admission tickets for Westminster Abbey are not included.✕ Entry to Westminster Abbey is not part of this tour.1 Changing of the Guard
Begin your journey through Royal London, passing by famous Royal residences such as St. James' Palace, Clarence House, and Buckingham Palace.
Experience the captivating Changing of the Guard Ceremony as you walk down The Mall with the Queen's footguards, or admire the impressive horses of the Household Cavalry. (The daily itinerary is subject to the British Army's schedule).
Enjoy a relaxed stroll through the beautiful St. James's Royal Park to conclude the first part of the tour.
· 1 h
2 Westminster Abbey
Continue your exploration through historic Royal Westminster.
Pass by Churchill's War Rooms and proceed to Westminster Abbey, the most significant church in England and the site of every Royal Coronation since 1066.
Discover Parliament Square, adorned with statues of prominent historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Abraham Lincoln, and Winston Churchill.
Gaze upon Big Ben, London's most recognizable landmark, overlooking Parliament Square.
Admire the exquisite Gothic architecture of the Houses of Parliament before heading towards 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the Prime Minister.
Capture memorable photographs with the Queen's Guard horses and explore Horse Guards Parade.
Please note: Entry into Westminster Abbey is not included. The duration for these sights is approximately 70 minutes, with about 5 minutes spent near the Abbey.
· 1 h 10 min · Admission not included
3 Trafalgar Square
Conclude your tour at Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson's Column and one of London's most impressive landmarks.
· 5 min
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking
The tour commences at the Goddess Diana fountain in Green Park, situated next to the Colicci refreshment stand.
Access Green Park via the entrance gates adjacent to The Ritz Hotel.
If using the underground, alight at Green Park Station. The Green Park/Buckingham Palace exit will lead you directly to the fountain.
The tour typically concludes at Trafalgar Square, though occasionally it may end at Parliament Square.
Please confirm the exact ending location with your guide at the start of the tour.
Infants are welcome and can be accommodated in prams or strollers. Service animals are permitted on the tour. Public transportation options are conveniently located nearby. This tour is not recommended for individuals with cardiovascular health concerns. The tour is suitable for all levels of physical fitness. Public restrooms will be accessible approximately halfway through the tour. The Changing of the Guard ceremony (Foot Guards) at Buckingham Palace takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the tour will observe the Changing of the King's Horse Guards at Horse Guards Parade. The Changing of the Guard Ceremony is subject to the discretion of the British Army and may be altered or cancelled without prior notice. This is beyond our control. In case of inclement weather, the Changing of the Guard Ceremony might be cancelled. On such days, the tour will aim to witness the Changing of the Horse Guards. This tour involves a brisk walk in certain sections and is not recommended for individuals with walking difficulties. The Changing of the Guard Tour and Buckingham Palace
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves a significant amount of walking. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly; umbrellas or raincoats are advisable. Arrive at the meeting point at least 10-15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Bring a camera to capture the memorable sights. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist season. Have your ticket ready for inspection. To receive a full refund, please ensure your cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 23256P4
Activity offered by secret chamber tours ltd via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center History enthusiasts Families First-time visitors to London Royal family admirers Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony. Explore Buckingham Palace and other Royal residences. Discover the history of Westminster Abbey and Parliament. Guided by local experts with in-depth knowledge. Prime viewing positions secured by your guide. Walk through beautiful Royal Parks.
Population 8,799,728 (2021)
Elevation 4 m
Currency pound sterling
Driving on the left
Power plugs G · 230 V
Emergency number 999 Average temperatures 4° Jan 4° Feb 6° Mar 9° Apr 12° May 15° Jun 18° Jul 17° Aug 15° Sept 11° Oct 7° Nov 5° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the tour? + The tour lasts for 2 hours and 15 minutes.
When does the Changing of the Guard ceremony take place? + The Changing of the Guard (Foot Guards) ceremony occurs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the tour will witness the Changing of the King's Horse Guards.
Is entry to Westminster Abbey included? + No, entrance to Westminster Abbey is not included in this tour.
What happens if the Changing of the Guard is cancelled due to weather? + In the event of bad weather, the Changing of the Guard Ceremony may be cancelled. The tour will endeavor to watch the Changing of the Horse Guards on these days.
Can I bring a stroller on the tour? + Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.
What is the meeting point for the tour? + The tour starts from the Goddess Diana fountain in Green Park, next to the Colicci refreshment stand.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Viator review
Most knowledgeable, entertaining tour guide!
Tammy_E, October 2026
Our tour guide, ERIK, was sensational! Has a degree in History and shared his historical knowledge of everything we saw. Erik had a clear, concise and entertaining way of teaching us. We really, really liked him and hope he is our guide on one of our next tours. Thank you ERIK!
★★★★★ Viator review
Excellent Tour
Charlton_B, October 2026
James was an excellent tour guide and made our experience literally a once in a lifetime event! We had all the best viewing spots for the parades and pageantry! He was very knowledgeable and took great care to ensure our group had the best experience.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
You will not see the changing of the guards at the actual palace
Q3749HGannb, October 2026
Even though this is called the changing of the guards tour We did not actually get to see the changing of the guards. If you are expecting to see this at the palace, you will be disappointed. However, the tour we had was very good, our tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. We learned all about the history of the guards and everything that happens leading up to them actually changing at the palace. Think of it more as a behind the scenes tour. This was definitely worth doing just not what we expected.
★★★★★ Viator review
The photo for this tour...
Keely_L, October 2026
The photo for this tour is deceiving. You see the changing of the guards in front of Buckingham Palace; my tour group did not stand there. We stood where the procession begins, we then followed the procession to a mount near Buckingham Palace where we could see absolutely nothing. If you truly want to see the guards, you are better off standing outside of the Palace on your own.
★★★★★ Viator review
Wet and left out
Karen_S, October 2026
Never found the tour guide. Not where they said they would be. Called company to let the know the 2 of us were on walkers and we couldn't easily walk too far in a timely manner. Went on our own in the rain and it was very far. Guards didn't change. Band didn't play. We're not offered any part of the cost to be reimbursed.
Response from the operator · Rippertour Yes that’s because you were late for the tour. We tried to give you directions to find the guide but you couldn’t find them. We have no control over the guard change. We tell everyone if you are late then you won’t see the guards.
It’s the same for every guard tour. We will keep your tickets valid to use again.
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