London: Changing of the Guard Walk with Palace Views & Local Guide

Summary

Changing of the Guard up close in London’s heart with stories and laughter

You’ll follow London’s iconic Changing of the Guard from St. James’s Palace alongside a local guide who knows every quirk and story behind each uniform. Get close enough to catch details most miss, laugh along with your group, and see royal tradition come alive from unexpected angles. By tour’s end, you’ll feel woven into London’s rhythm — rain or shine.

What’s the experience like?

We were already weaving through a knot of people near St. James’s Palace when our guide, Anna, waved us over — she had this knack for making you feel like you belonged, even as tourists. The air was thick with that city smell, half rain and half bakery (I swear someone nearby was eating a sausage roll). Anna pointed out the first flash of red coats coming down the Mall, and I realized I’d never actually paid attention to all those little details before — the buttons, the badges, even how their boots hit the pavement in perfect time. It wasn’t just standing around; we actually followed along as the guards marched. My legs are still grateful I wore sneakers.

I tried to snap a photo at just the right moment but fumbled it because Anna was explaining why some hats looked taller than others (there’s a whole story about bearskin hats — who knew?). She made sure we didn’t end up stuck behind ten rows of selfie sticks at Buckingham Palace; instead, we got these side angles where you could see everything without craning your neck. There was this one bit where a little kid saluted back at a guard and everyone laughed — even one of the guards cracked a smile, which felt like catching Big Ben winking or something.

Honestly, I thought it would be more about spectacle, but it turned out to be about people — Anna told us bits about her own family watching parades here years ago. The drizzle started up halfway through and nobody cared; umbrellas popped open like flowers and we kept moving. By the end I found myself humming along with the band (they played something weirdly familiar — maybe ABBA?), feeling oddly proud for no real reason except that I’d seen this slice of London tradition up close. Still thinking about those marching boots echoing off old stone walls.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Changing of the Guard and Royal Palaces

• Join Changing of the Guards experience
• Visit St James’s Palace outside
• Watch Horseguards changing ceremony
• See Buckingham Palace exterior

Top questions

How long does the Changing of the Guard walking tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect to be moving quickly to keep pace with the guards; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Does this tour include entry into Buckingham Palace?

No, you’ll view Buckingham Palace from outside while following the guard procession for better visibility.

Is there hotel pickup included in this Changing of the Guard tour?

No hotel pickup is included; public transport options are nearby for easy access to the starting point.

Are there toilet or refreshment breaks during this walking tour?

No scheduled breaks for toilets or refreshments are available during this experience.

What happens if it rains or if the ceremony is cancelled?

The tour operates in all weather conditions; if the full ceremony is cancelled, you’ll still see guards marching without music.

Is this suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

This tour moves quickly and is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Can I bring my service animal on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this walking tour.

Will I be able to take photos during the experience?

You can take photos throughout but please ask before filming your guide directly.

What’s included

Your day includes an English-speaking local expert guide who leads your small group along the Changing of the Guard route past St. James’s Palace and Buckingham Palace, sharing stories and insights while ensuring you get close-up views and plenty of photo opportunities as you move alongside London’s famous guards.