London: Royal Walking Tour With Guard Change & Royal Mews

Explore the grandeur of British royalty with the London Royal Walking Tour. This guided experience offers a unique opportunity to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, explore the Royal Mews, and gain exclusive access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms during the summer months. With informative commentary, wheelchair accessibility, and flexible cancellation, this tour promises a personalized and unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the UK’s royal heritage. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, this tour might be the perfect addition to your London itinerary.

Key Points

• The Royal Walking Tour provides access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms during summer and witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
• The tour includes a guided visit to the Royal Mews, a working stable and coach house with historic royal vehicles.
• The tour lasts 3-4 hours and is priced at $76.31 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair-accessible, with accommodations available for guests with mobility requirements.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as pre-reserved entry to the Royal Mews and/or Buckingham Palace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Royal Walking Tour in London offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s royal sites, including the iconic Buckingham Palace, the Royal Mews, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Lasting 3-4 hours, the tour is priced from $76.31 per person and is conducted in English.

Wheelchair-accessible, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include accessing the Buckingham Palace State Rooms during the summer months and witnessing the Changing of the Guard, if selected.

An informative audio guide is available for self-paced exploration, and the small group setting ensures a personalized experience.

Exploring the Royal Mews

As part of the Royal Walking Tour, guests have the opportunity to explore the iconic Royal Mews, a working stable and coach house that houses the royal family’s historic vehicles, including the renowned Gold State Coach.

Visitors can marvel at the opulent carriages and learn about their use in royal ceremonies. The guided tour provides insights into the daily operations and traditions of the Royal Mews, offering a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes workings of the monarchy.

This exclusive access allows travelers to enjoy the grandeur and pageantry of the British royal heritage.

Witnessing the Changing of the Guard

One of the highlights of the Royal Walking Tour is witnessing the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. This highly anticipated event features the meticulously choreographed exchange of duties between the Old and New Guards. The procession of the New Guard, accompanied by a military band, is a captivating display of British pageantry. Guests can observe the precision and discipline of the guards as they march in perfect synchronization. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure the best viewing spots and soak in the energy of this quintessential London experience.

| Time | What Happens |

| — | — |

| 11:00 AM | New Guard arrives at Buckingham Palace |

| 11:15 AM | Old Guard departs Buckingham Palace |

| 11:30 AM | Changing of the Guard ceremony begins |

| 11:45 AM | Ceremony concludes |

| 12:00 PM | Guards depart Buckingham Palace |

Access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms

Visitors can access Buckingham Palace’s magnificent State Rooms during the summer opening from July 11th to September 29th, 2025.

These lavishly decorated rooms showcase the palace’s opulent interiors and provide a glimpse into the royal family’s history. The tour includes highlights like the Throne Room, the Blue Drawing Room, and the Picture Gallery.

The lavishly decorated State Rooms provide a glimpse into the royal family’s history, with highlights like the Throne Room and Picture Gallery.

Guests can admire the exquisite furnishings, artwork, and architectural details that reflect the palace’s grandeur. This exclusive access is a unique opportunity to experience the splendor of the Queen’s official London residence.

Tickets for the State Rooms must be pre-booked as part of the Royal Walking Tour.

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Visiting Royal Sites

The Royal Walking Tour takes guests on a captivating journey through the heart of London’s storied royal landmarks.

Visitors will explore:

• Clarence House, the official residence of the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall

• St. James’s Palace, a historic palace that has been the London residence of several members of the royal family

• St. James’s Park, a beautiful green space that offers views of Buckingham Palace

• The Horse Guards Parade, where the daily ceremony of the Changing of the Guard takes place

• The Royal Mews, housing the royal family’s historic carriages and horses.

Informative Audio Guide

An informative audio guide accompanies the Royal Walking Tour, allowing guests to explore the sites at their own pace.

The guide provides insider details and historical context about the iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, the Royal Mews, and St. James’s Palace.

The audio guide provides insider details and historical context about iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the Royal Mews, and St. James’s Palace.

Guests can listen to the guide on their own devices, enabling them to move through the tour at a comfortable rhythm.

This self-paced feature is particularly useful for visitors with limited mobility or those who wish to linger at certain locations.

The audio guide enhances the overall experience, offering a more personalized and enriching exploration of London’s royal heritage.

Knowledgeable Tour Guide and Personalized Experience

Although the Royal Walking Tour is a small group setting, the knowledgeable tour guide ensures a highly personalized experience.

The guide, a Royal Family expert, provides insider information that brings the tour sites to life. Guests praise the guide’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling:

• Brings historical context to the tour sites

• Shares behind-the-scenes details about the Royal Family

• Adapts the pace and content to the group’s interests

• Encourages questions and interactions for a more immersive experience

• Ensures guests leave with a greater appreciation for British royal heritage

Tour Logistics and Important Information

Guests meet at the Buckingham Palace side of Canada Gate, where a guide holding a Walks sign will be waiting to greet the group.

The tour includes guided walking, pre-reserved entry to the Royal Mews and/or Buckingham Palace, and hotel pickup/drop-off, with tips included. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

For security reasons, weapons, sharp objects, and large bags aren’t allowed. Tour sites may occasionally close, and modifications will be communicated.

Guests with mobility impairments can be accommodated, but space is limited, so they should email the Guest Experience team for arrangements.

In case of State Rooms closure, the tour will visit the Royal Mews for a shorter 2.5-hour duration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Guests are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour, though some areas may have restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour guide for specific photography policies and any limitations at the different sites visited.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but guests are encouraged to dress neatly and avoid overly casual or revealing attire. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the tour’s duration.

Will the Guards Interact With the Tour Group?

The guards do not typically interact directly with tour groups. They perform their ceremonial duties and visitors can observe the Changing of the Guard ceremony, but the guards maintain a formal, non-interactive posture during the event.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though a reasonable level of mobility is required as there’s a significant amount of walking involved during the 3-4 hour tour.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time?

Guests can leave the tour group at any time, but they should inform the guide beforehand. Leaving the group is not recommended, as it may disrupt the tour’s schedule and the guide’s ability to provide a seamless experience.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the grandeur of British royalty with the London Royal Walking Tour. Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard, explore the Royal Mews, and gain exclusive access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms. With the convenience of wheelchair accessibility, free cancellation, and an informative audio guide, this tour offers a personalized experience to marvel at the UK’s rich royal heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: