Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour

Visiting Buckingham Palace is a bucket-list moment for many travelers to London, and this particular tour offers a curated glimpse into royal life with a mix of outdoor spectacle and grand interiors. While it’s not a full access behind-the-scenes experience, it combines key highlights that make the visit memorable.

What we love about this tour:
First, the opportunity to see the iconic Changing of the Guard in person is a real treat — its color and precision are truly impressive. Second, the self-guided exploration of the State Rooms allows you to admire stunning chandeliers, artworks, and regal furnishings at your own pace, with insightful audio commentary. Third, the addition of The Kings Tour Artists Exhibition inside the Palace’s Ballroom is a rare look at royal art collections, making this experience more unique.

One consideration is the unpredictability of the Changing of the Guard schedule — weather and royal arrangements can cause cancellations or rescheduling, which might frustrate those hoping for a guaranteed spectacle. This tour suits history buffs, royal fans, and those wanting a taste of London’s most famous palace without the hefty price tag of full access.

Key Points

• Concise schedule combines outdoor and indoor highlights in about 2.5 hours.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary, especially during the outside parts.
• Self-guided audio tour of Buckingham Palace offers flexibility in exploring the luxurious interiors.
• The Kings Tour Artists Exhibition provides a rare opportunity to view royal art collections.
• Weather dependence can affect the Changing of the Guard, with alternatives like walking tours.
• Value for money is generally regarded as good, considering the included elements and insider insights.

The Itinerary in Detail

St. James’s Park: Starting with a Classic View

The tour begins with a meet-up at the Duke of York Column in St. James’s Park. From here, the walk to Buckingham Palace is short but scenic. The park itself is a lush, calming space that offers great photo opportunities of the palace from a distance. Reviewers appreciated the guide’s commentary as they strolled, noting how this initial part laid the groundwork for understanding the palace’s surroundings.

The Changing of the Guard: A Colorful Tradition

Next is the Changing of the Guard at the palace gates. This ceremony is the highlight for many visitors — a vibrant display of military precision, with guards dressed in bright red tunics and bearskin hats, accompanied by rhythmic drum beats. The timing is crucial, as it depends on the schedule of the Household Cavalry, and it tends to last around 30 minutes.

The reviews reveal that this part of the experience can be unpredictable. In some cases, bad weather or early schedule changes mean no formal guard change occurs, replaced instead with a walking tour around Westminster. One reviewer noted, “If there is heavy rain or it’s rescheduled, the ceremony is replaced with a walking tour,” which can be a letdown if you’re eager for the spectacle. Nevertheless, guides do their best to provide an engaging commentary regardless.

Exploring Buckingham Palace’s Exterior and Grounds

After the outdoor spectacle, you’ll approach the palace gates, where your guide offers historical and cultural insights into the residence of the British monarch. The focus then shifts indoors to the State Rooms, which are only open to the public during two months each year (August-September).

Here, you’ll use the provided audio guide to explore the luxurious chambers at your own pace. The rooms are described as adorned with glittering chandeliers, fine artworks, and elegant furniture. Several reviewers mentioned how stunning the interiors are; one called it a “gob-smacking collection of art and furniture.” While photography isn’t permitted, the experience of viewing such opulence firsthand is considered well worth the ticket price.

The Kings Tour Artists Exhibition: A New Addition

In 2025, a new feature inside Buckingham Palace will be available — The Kings Tour Artists Exhibition. This showcase includes over 70 carefully selected masterpieces from the Royal Collection, personally chosen by King Charles III. It’s an extraordinary opportunity to see a curated selection of artwork that offers a personal glimpse into the monarch’s artistic tastes, adding an exclusive layer to the visit.

End of Tour and Farewell

The tour concludes with a visit back outside, where you can take photos and soak in the atmosphere one last time. Reviewers have appreciated the ease of the meeting point and the well-organized flow of the tour. The overall experience wraps up in about 2.5 hours, making it suitable for a half-day activity.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Many praised their guides, like Kevin, for their engaging, informative commentary. One reviewer said, “Kevin did a fantastic job, had a great sense of humor, and made many of us laugh even in the rain.” Their insights help you appreciate the history and significance of what you’re seeing.

Good Value for Money: At around $99.38 per person, including entrance to Buckingham Palace, the tour is often considered a reasonable price for a comprehensive experience. The insider knowledge, combined with the access to the State Rooms and the art exhibition, offers a lot for this price.

Authentic Outdoor Experience: Watching the Changing of the Guard in person is a must-do ritual that you’ll cherish. Despite the weather uncertainties, the spectacle is very photogenic and culturally rich, giving you a genuine taste of British tradition.

Indoor Opulence & Exhibitions: The self-guided palace tour is a highlight, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The interiors are as exquisite as you’d expect, and the addition of the 2025 art exhibition will make future visits even more special.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Duration & Group Size

The entire experience runs around 2 hours 30 minutes, which is manageable for most travelers. The tour is capped at 30 participants, preserving a more intimate atmosphere and reducing overcrowding — helpful when viewing artworks or moving through the palace.

Meeting Point & Accessibility

The tour starts near the Duke of York Column in central London, close to public transportation options, making it easy to reach. Reviewers have noted clear instructions and smooth check-ins. For travelers with moderate physical fitness, walking around the park and palace grounds is quite manageable, though inside the State Rooms, mobility considerations might be worth noting.

Weather & Schedule Changes

Weather is a real factor. Heavy rain or rescheduling by royal authorities can alter the itinerary, replacing the Changing of the Guard with a walking tour. One reviewer shared that they appreciated the flexible alternative, but it’s good to be aware that the outdoor part isn’t guaranteed.

No Photography Inside

A common theme among reviewers was disappointment over the no-photography rule inside the palace. While understandable given security, it means you can’t capture the stunning interiors, so be prepared to enjoy the moments in the moment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for visitors who want a balanced mix of outdoor spectacle and indoor luxury without the crowds of full palace tours. It’s perfect for those interested in royal traditions, architecture, and art, as it offers a curated inside look alongside a classic British ceremony.

If you’re short on time but want a meaningful glimpse into British royal life, this tour fits well within a half-day itinerary. History enthusiasts and art lovers will appreciate the detailed commentary and the upcoming art exhibition.

However, if you’re expecting a fully guided, behind-the-scenes tour, or are seeking unlimited access, you might find this experience a bit limited. The weather dependency and no-photo policy inside the Palace are factors to consider, especially in bad weather or if photography is a priority.

Final Thoughts

In our view, the Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour offers strong value for those interested in experiencing London’s most iconic royal residence and traditions firsthand. The mix of outdoor spectacle, self-guided interior exploration, and exclusive exhibitions creates a well-rounded visit.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy cultural rituals, appreciate art, and want a flexible, guided outdoor experience. The knowledgeable guides and manageable group sizes add to its charm, making it accessible even for those less accustomed to large, crowded tours.

While weather can impact the outdoor portions, the indoor elements and special exhibitions ensure a memorable visit regardless. For anyone eager to witness a piece of British royalty, this tour provides a practical, engaging way to do so with good value and insightful storytelling.

FAQ

Is the Changing of the Guard guaranteed?
No, the Changing of the Guard can be canceled or rescheduled due to weather or royal arrangements. When this happens, it’s replaced with a walking tour of Westminster city.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially since there’s some outdoor walking involved. Weather can change quickly, so bring an umbrella or raincoat in case of rain.

Are there any restrictions inside Buckingham Palace?
Yes, photography isn’t permitted inside the State Rooms, so you’ll need to enjoy the visuals without capturing them on camera.

How long does the palace interior tour last?
The self-guided interior exploration typically takes about an hour, giving you ample time to appreciate the ornate rooms at your own pace.

Can I join the tour if I have mobility issues?
While the tour is manageable for most, inside the State Rooms, some walking may be required. It’s advisable to assess personal mobility needs beforehand.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket covers the changing of the guard (if scheduled), entrance to Buckingham Palace, an audio-guided tour of the State Rooms, and access to the new Kings Tour Artists Exhibition in 2025.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included. It’s best to plan for public transport or a taxi.

This tour offers a practical, enjoyable peek into London’s royal heritage, blending tradition, art, and history in a way that suits most visitors. Whether marveling at the guards, wandering the palace halls, or soaking in the atmosphere of St. James’s Park, it’s a worthwhile addition to your London experience.