Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard ceremony are must-see attractions for visitors to London. This guided walking tour provides an in-depth look at the history and significance of these iconic landmarks. Guests can expect to explore St. James’s Palace, Whitehall, and the iconic Westminster Abbey. While the tour includes the renowned Changing of the Guard, travelers should note that visibility can be challenging due to large crowds. This highly-rated experience offers an excellent opportunity to discover the grandeur of the British monarchy.

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About Your Stay

This 2-hour guided walking tour offers a comprehensive experience, including visits to Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace, Whitehall, and Westminster Abbey.
Travelers can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace on select days, subject to availability.
The tour is led by expert local guides who provide historical insights and context, bringing the city’s past to life.
Pricing starts from $23.95 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a reserve now, pay later option.
While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.

Tour Overview

This 2-hour guided walking tour allows visitors to experience the grandeur of Buckingham Palace and witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony (on select days).

The tour also includes stops at St. James’s Palace, Whitehall, and Westminster Abbey, providing historical insights from an expert local guide.

While the morning tour leaves the rest of the day free for sightseeing, it’s highly recommended, with a 90% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.

With 224 positive reviews, this tour offers an engaging and informative introduction to some of London’s most iconic landmarks.

Looking for more options in London? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Guided Walking Tour Highlights

The guided walking tour takes visitors on an engaging journey through some of London’s most iconic landmarks.

First, you’ll explore St. James’s Palace, the official residence of the Queen. Next, you’ll walk through Whitehall, home to numerous government buildings.

The tour culminates at the magnificent Westminster Abbey, where you’ll learn about its rich history and significance.

Throughout the tour, the expert local guide provides historical insights, bringing the city’s past to life.

With a duration of 2 hours, this tour leaves the rest of the day free for further sightseeing around London.

Tour Logistics and Booking Details

To book the Buckingham Palace Experience, visitors can choose from a range of pricing options starting from $23.95 per person. The tour lasts 2 hours and is led by expert local guides, providing historical insights along the way.

Travelers can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and the convenience of a reserve now, pay later option. The tour accommodates a maximum group size of 200 travelers and departs promptly, so guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early.

Key details:

Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Confirmation received at booking
Travelers must arrive 15 minutes early; groups leave promptly

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

While the Buckingham Palace Experience receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating based on 224 traveler reviews, some critiques and disappointments have also been reported.

Travelers often praise the engaging guides and informative tours, but some have issues with communication, missed Changing of the Guard ceremonies due to scheduling, and poor visibility in crowded conditions.

Plus, some visitors express disappointment when the anticipated Changing of the Guard doesn’t occur as expected, despite the tour’s efforts to accommodate this popular event.

Questions About Your Stay

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What Is the Dress Code for the Buckingham Palace Tour?

The tour does not have a specified dress code. Visitors should dress comfortably for walking and the weather, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor elements. Casual, weather-appropriate attire is recommended for the best overall experience.

Are Photos and Videos Allowed During the Changing of the Guard?

Photos and videos are generally allowed during the Changing of the Guard ceremony, but visitors should avoid obstructing the views of others. It’s best to check with the guide for any specific photography guidelines before the event.

How Long Do Visitors Typically Spend at Buckingham Palace?

Visitors typically spend about 2 hours exploring Buckingham Palace during the tour. This allows time to see the highlights, such as the State Rooms and the Changing of the Guard ceremony, if scheduled. The duration provides a well-rounded palace experience.

Is the Tour Still Conducted in Inclement Weather?

The tour is still conducted in inclement weather, though the Changing of the Guard ceremony may be cancelled if the weather is particularly poor. Visitors should come prepared with appropriate rain gear or umbrellas.

What Amenities Are Available at the Tour Meeting Point?

The tour meeting point at Santander Bank, 77 Piccadilly, London W1J 8AY, is located near public transportation. While it doesn’t provide any additional amenities, it serves as a convenient and easy-to-find starting point for the guided walking tour.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard Experience offers an immersive journey through London’s iconic landmarks. Led by expert guides, the tour provides access to notable sites like St. James’s Palace and Westminster Abbey, culminating in the renowned Changing of the Guard ceremony. While visibility may be challenged by crowds, the highly-rated experience allows travelers to discover the grandeur of the British monarchy firsthand.