Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a time-honored tradition that draws visitors from around the world. This guided walking tour in London offers an immersive experience, allowing participants to witness the impressive ceremony firsthand. With knowledgeable local guides leading the way, tour-goers can secure prime viewing spots and explore the surrounding landmarks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, this highly-rated tour promises to provide a captivating glimpse into the heart of British royal heritage.

Key Points

• A guided walking tour that provides prime views of the iconic Changing of the Guards ceremony at Buckingham Palace and other key sights in London.
• Lasts approximately 3 hours and is highly recommended by 97% of travelers, with a maximum group size of 25.
• Involves navigating three flights of steps and maintaining a marching pace, so may not be suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to secure the best viewing spots, but visibility in crowded areas can be an issue.
• Tour availability and the ceremony schedule are subject to the discretion of the British Army, and changes may occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London offers visitors a chance to witness the iconic ceremony firsthand.

The tour includes prime views of the Changing of the Guards ceremony, inspection, Old Guard, New Guard, and marching alongside Guards and Ceremonial Bands.

Key sights include Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and Regent Street.

Lasting approximately 3 hours, the tour is highly recommended by 97% of travelers and has earned a Badge of Excellence.

With a maximum group size of 25, the tour provides an immersive and informative experience led by knowledgeable local guides.

Tour Logistics and Details

The meeting point for the Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour is the Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain) in Piccadilly Circus, London W1J 9HS.

The tour ends at The Mall, London SW1. The group size is capped at 25 travelers.

The tour includes:

1. A local guide
2. Gratuities
3. Hotel pick-up/drop-off
4. Transportation to and from the attractions

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Travelers with certain medical conditions aren’t recommended to join. The tour operates in all weather conditions and doesn’t include any breaks.

Tour Accessibility and Requirements

Although not wheelchair accessible, the Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour allows stroller access and permits service animals.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or serious medical issues due to the moderate physical fitness required. The tour involves navigating three flights of steps and maintaining a marching pace with the guards.

There are no toilet or refreshment breaks, and the tour operates in all weather conditions, so participants should come prepared.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and late arrivals won’t be accommodated.

Tour Experience and Reviews

Guides are often praised for their knowledge and ability to provide travelers with the best viewing spots during the Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour.

Positive feedback highlights the informative nature of the tours, with travelers singling out guides like Rachel and Pepe.

However, some have expressed dissatisfaction regarding visibility in crowded areas and the timing of the tour.

The tour experience can be mixed:

1. Some feel the tour provides sufficient views of the ceremony.
2. Others believe they were misled about the experience.
3. Travelers note changes to the ceremony schedule due to British Army discretion.
4. Tour availability is dependent on the British Army’s schedule.

Ceremony Schedule and Changes

As the ceremony schedule is subject to the discretion of the British Army, changes may occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Travelers are encouraged to check the tour conditions prior to booking, as the availability of the tour depends on the British Army’s schedule.

While the tour doesn’t include the courtyard section of Buckingham Palace, it focuses on other highlights of the Changing of the Guard ceremony, such as the inspection, the Old Guard, the New Guard, and the marching alongside the Guards and Ceremonial Bands.

Guests should be aware that recording the guides without permission isn’t allowed.

Viewing Restrictions and Late Arrivals

The tour has some viewing restrictions that travelers should be aware of. For instance, no video recording of the guides is permitted without their explicit permission. Plus, late arrivals won’t be accommodated, as the tour operates on a tight schedule.

Here are four other key viewing restrictions:

1. The tour doesn’t include access to the courtyard section of Buckingham Palace, focusing instead on other ceremony highlights.

2. Travelers should be aware that the ceremony schedule is subject to the discretion of the British Army and may change due to weather conditions.

3. Visitors are encouraged to check the tour availability prior to booking, as it’s dependent on the British Army’s schedule.

4. The tour operates in all weather conditions, with no toilet or refreshment breaks provided.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The Changing of the Guard Tour in London includes several key features that travelers can expect.

The tour provides prime views of the ceremony, inspection, marching, and Ceremonial Bands at iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace. It lasts approximately 3 hours and covers additional sites like Piccadilly Circus and Regent Street.

The tour includes a local guide and necessary gratuities. However, it doesn’t offer hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation to/from attractions, or any breaks for restrooms or refreshments.

The tour operates rain or shine and isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions.

Booking Considerations and Recommendations

When booking the Changing of the Guard Tour in London, travelers should consider several factors to ensure the best experience.

The tour schedule is subject to changes due to the discretion of the British Army, so it’s crucial to check the conditions prior to booking. Plus, the tour doesn’t include the courtyard section of Buckingham Palace, focusing instead on other ceremony highlights.

Travelers should also be aware that late arrivals aren’t accommodated, and video recording of guides requires prior permission. Finally, the tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility or medical conditions, as it involves a moderate level of physical activity.

The key booking considerations are:

1. Check tour schedule and conditions before booking
2. Understand tour highlights and exclusions
3. Be on time as late arrivals aren’t allowed
4. Ensure physical fitness level matches tour requirements

Ask Away

Can I Take Photos During the Ceremony?

Photography is generally allowed during the ceremony, but travelers shouldn’t record the tour guides without permission. Video recording is prohibited, so it’s best to focus on capturing photos of the iconic guards and event.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a formal dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Dressing modestly is recommended, as the tour visits important sites and ceremonies.

How Long Does the Changing of the Guard Ceremony Last?

The Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace typically lasts around 30-45 minutes. It involves the Old Guard marching out and the New Guard marching in, with music and inspections performed by the guards during the process.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time?

The tour doesn’t allow participants to leave the group at any time. The tour has a strict schedule, and travelers must stay with the group for the full duration of the experience. Leaving the tour early is not permitted.

Is There an Audio Guide Available for the Tour?

The tour does not provide an audio guide. Participants follow the live guidance of the local guide throughout the walking tour, which focuses on providing the best viewing spots for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Final Words

The Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London offers a captivating and well-organized experience for those eager to witness this iconic British tradition. With knowledgeable local guides, prime viewing spots, and a manageable group size, the tour provides an informative and memorable way to explore the ceremony and surrounding landmarks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this tour is a must-do activity to learn about the pageantry of London’s heritage.