Changing the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace

Step into the heart of British heritage with an unforgettable experience that showcases the pomp, pageantry, and tradition of London’s iconic Changing the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Getting started

Your journey begins near The Mall, a grand ceremonial avenue that leads you through the heart of royal London. Meet your expert English-speaking guide, collect your personal headset for clear commentary, and set off on a picturesque walk through the capital's historic center.

What to expect

Changing the Guard Ceremony

Enjoy front-row views of the world-famous Changing the Guard Ceremony, where disciplined soldiers in bright red tunics and bearskin hats march to the sound of military bands. As you follow your guide past landmarks such as St James’s Palace, insightful narration brings centuries of tradition and royal history to life.

Features:

• Prime viewing: Get the best vantage points for watching the meticulously choreographed Changing the Guard, avoiding the crowds and confusion of solo exploration.

• Expert guided experience: Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of a local English-speaking guide who unpacks the ceremonial significance of every move, uniform, and note of music.

• Personal audio headsets: Stay connected with your guide at all times through a personal audio headset, allowing you to hear every detail, even in crowded spaces.

• Stroll through St James’s Park: Wander through the oldest Royal Park in London, famed for its greenery, lake, and resident pelicans, offering a peaceful contrast to the ceremonial grandeur nearby.

Extras

• Westminster Abbey guided tour: Opt for a guided tour of Westminster Abbey for a deeper dive into royal and religious history.

Know before you go

What's not allowed

• Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.

Additional information

• The Changing the Guard ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays throughout the year. However, last-minute cancellations can occur without prior notice due to decisions made by the palace or local authorities, or because of bad weather.

• Changing the Foot Guards Ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

• On Sundays, a slightly different version of the ceremony takes place, known as the "Sunday Parade."

• Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday, you’ll experience the Changing the Horse Guard Ceremony instead.