London: Royal London and the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

London: Royal London and the Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price varies by date Check availability for current pricing

About This Tour in London

The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a tradition rich in history and symbolism that attracts countless visitors from across the world. This tour is the perfect way to see this centuries-old tradition, which is an integral part of Great Britain's heritage. Our tour allows you to immerse yourself in the culture of Great Britain with our pride and passion for displays of military precision, music, and pageantry. With colourful uniforms, elaborate choreography, and stirring music, the Changing of the Guard is a feast for the eyes and ears, providing a memorable experience for spectators. This tour has been put together with expert tour guides and assistance from retired members of the British Armed Forces, many of whom have personally undertaken guard duty at one of the royal palaces. This means that you will discover the official history of the Changing of the Guard Ceremony and some behind-the-scenes secrets given to us by people who have done the ceremony for themselves!

Why Visit London?

London is a historic capital city blending rich heritage with modern innovation. From royal palaces to world-class museums, London offers diverse attractions. Explore the West End, visit iconic landmarks, and experience the vibrant food and cultural scene that makes London one of the world's most visited cities.

Getting to London

The easiest way to reach London is by flying into Heathrow Airport (LHR), Gatwick Airport (LGW), Stansted Airport (STN), Luton Airport (LTN), or London City Airport (LCY). The city offers various transportation options including taxis, public transit, and private transfers to help you reach your destination. Many hotels can arrange airport transfers, and local transportation options vary by location.

What's Included

  • An expert guide local guide.
  • All guiding fees are included in the cost of this tour.

What's Not Included

  • Gratuities

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Customer Reviews

Customer reviews and ratings are available on Viator. View all reviews on Viator

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting Point

Whilst in Piccadilly

The tour will start outside the Piccadilly Theatre.

End Point

The tour will end at Westminster Station.

Pickup Information

Pickup Option: All travelers must meet at start point

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Whilst in Piccadilly your guide will explain the... 15 minutes

Whilst in Piccadilly your guide will explain the significance of some of the beautiful historic buildings, as well as what most London guidebooks have got wrong about the famous statue of 'Eros'

After walking down Piccadilly we will quickly stop...

After walking down Piccadilly we will quickly stop to admire Burlington House, home to the Royal Academy of Arts plus several of London's royal societies including the Royal Society of Chemistry who have a very surprising honourary member.

As we walk down St James's Street your... 20 minutes

As we walk down St James's Street your guide will explain some of the amazing stores that have called St James's Street home, including the tobacconist to Royalty and Prime Ministers, a hatter's shop that you'd be mad to miss and a right royal liquor store.

St James' Palace is the oldest of the... 15 minutes

St James' Palace is the oldest of the Royal palaces still standing in London today. Originally a hunting lodge for Henry VIII, today it stands largely empty but serves a very important purpose in the planning of the state funeral and coronation of our monarchs.

As we walk from St James's Palace to... 10 minutes

As we walk from St James's Palace to Green Park we will stop off at St James's Place and look at the childhood home of Sir Winston Churchill. Whilst here your guide will give you a quick history of Sir Winston and his involvement with London both as Prime Minister and as a private citizen. After this we will take you through one of London's secret passages before walking through Green Park. Whilst here our guide will tell you some of the stories behind how the park got its name before walking you down to Buckingham Palace.

Buckingham Palace is the London home of British... 30 minutes

Buckingham Palace is the London home of British Royalty since the reign of Queen Victoria, one of Britain's most famous Queens. Now home to Queen Elizabeth II, the most famous Queen in the world, the tour will take you to see this beautiful palace and depending on the time of year and day of your booking the world-famous Changing of the Guard. Please note that the Changing of the Guard takes place every day during June and July and on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday between August and May. Please also be aware that the Changing of the Guard can be cancelled at late notice due to poor weather or security alerts.

As you walk up the Mall, famous for... 10 minutes

As you walk up the Mall, famous for being the site where crowds gather for royal and state events such as Royal Weddings and Jubilee celebrations, your guide will explain the history behind the famous name, the interesting addition to the local wildlife and how film and TV crews often flood the area - who knows you might also get to see one of the crews setting up, taking down or even filming a scene!

Whitehall is the home of the UK's government 20 minutes

Whitehall is the home of the UK's government. As you wander down Whitehall our guide will tell you all about the various government departments, the statues of famous faces and the memorials to the brave men and women who made great sacrifices during the First and Second World Wars.

The final location on the tour will be Parliament Square 20 minutes

The final location on the tour will be Parliament Square. Here your guide will tell you all about the significants of the square and the figures that surround it, we well as the numerous internationally important buildings nearby that include Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How do I book this tour?

Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.

Book Your Experience

Ready to book this experience? Click the button below to check availability, select your travel date and party size, and complete your booking on Viator.

Book Now on Viator

You'll be redirected to Viator's secure booking platform to complete your reservation.