Changing of the Guard Tours and Tickets

Q: What is the Changing of the Guard?

The Changing of the Guard (also known as Guard Mounting) is a formal ceremony during which the soldiers who guard Buckingham Palace are relieved of their posts and replaced by a fresh round of soldiers. It originated in the 17th century and is now one of London’s key tourist attractions.

Q: When does the Changing of the Guard take place at Buckingham Palace?

The Changing of the Guard is usually held at Buckingham Palace every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The ceremony typically begins at 10:45am and lasts for around 45 minutes. It’s a popular sight, so get to the palace well in advance of the start time to secure a good spot.

Q: Are there any other locations in London where the Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs?

Yes. While it’s best-associated with Buckingham Palace, the Changing of the Guard takes place across three locations, including the Wellington Barracks and St. James’s Palace. The ceremony also is held separately every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at Windsor Castle, which is located just a short trip from London.

Q: Are there any specific days or times when the Changing of the Guard doesn’t happen?

Yes. The Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace may not always occur and can be canceled at short notice due to inclement weather. The ceremony also is canceled for major events, such as state visits, the London Marathon, and Trooping the Colour (an event celebrating the sovereign’s birthday).

Q: Is there an admission fee to the Changing of the Guard?

No. The ceremony is always free to attend, and you do not need to book Changing of the Guard tickets to see it. There are no specific Changing of the Guard tours however, many tours of London’s major royal and historic monuments showcase the ceremony and offer a good way to learn about its history.

Q: What is the best spot to view the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace?

Two of the most popular places to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony are in front of the Buckingham Palace gates and from the steps of the Victoria Memorial. Alternatively, you can watch from The Mall, which is on the procession route. Just stay clear of the soldiers’ path.

500+ results

Best Seller

Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace

No visit to London would be complete without experiencing quintessential traditions such as the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Your guide takes you to a prime vantage point—difficult to find on your own—to observe the King's iconic foot guards, clad in red uniforms and bearskin hats, and watch the household cavalry put on an impressive display. Follow history-rich guide commentary with ease using a headset.

...More

4.4

(975)

Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace

Free Cancellation
1 hour 30 minutes

from $19

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace Experience

5.0

(399)

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace Experience

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $34

The Changing of the Guard Tour and Buckingham Palace

The Changing of the Guard is one of London’s signature sights, but it's easy to miss if you're standing in the wrong place. This guided tour ensures you’re well-positioned to watch the ceremony (schedules permitting), and explores royal landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, St. James's Palace, and Clarence House. Continue through Westminster to see Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, 10 Downing Street, and more.

...More

4.7

(348)

The Changing of the Guard Tour and Buckingham Palace

Free Cancellation
2 hours 15 minutes

from $24

Surround yourself in fanfare and history, from the best vantage point in town, on a Changing of the King's Guard tour in London. This short excursion is ideal for curious travelers seeking a genuinely immersive sightseeing experience. As you enjoy the parade of bagpipes, drummers, and brass instruments, learn about the ceremony's uniforms, traditions, and significance. The tour also includes brief stops outside St. James' Palace and Buckingham Palace.

...More

5.0

(808)

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $20

Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London

4.9

(1,817)

Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $27

London: Westminster Abbey, Big Ben & Changing of the Guards Tour

When you’re in London, check off the capital’s royal landmarks with this top-rated walking tour. Enjoy a skip-the-line visit inside Westminster Abbey, and hear tales of the royal weddings, funerals, and coronations that it’s hosted. Then, pass by Downing Street and St. James’s Park. The tour finishes outside Buckingham Palace or Horse Guard’s Parade, in time to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

...More

4.4

(334)

London: Westminster Abbey, Big Ben & Changing of the Guards Tour

Free Cancellation
3 hours

from $68

Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour

Getting a good view of the Changing of the Guard can be difficult, but you can secure your spot with this tour that also includes a visit to Buckingham Palace. Start in St. James's Park and see the ceremony with your guide. enter the opulent State Rooms of Buckingham Palace on a self-guided audio tour that lets you see lavish chambers that are only open to the public for two months of the year. Gain fascinating insight into the history of the British monarchy.

...More

4.1

(1,720)

Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & Changing of the Guard Tour

Free Cancellation
2 hours 30 minutes

from $96

Likely to Sell Out

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London at Buckingham Palace

4.9

(950)

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour in London at Buckingham Palace

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $19

Buckingham Palace, Change the Guard & Crown Jewels Tour

4.4

(36)

Buckingham Palace, Change the Guard & Crown Jewels Tour

Free Cancellation
4 hours

from $174

London Tour: Changing of the Guard, Westminster Abbey & Tower

Limited time in London doesn’t have to mean a limited view of the capital. Soak up the key sights in just one action-packed day on this guided walking tour. Explore highlights such as Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace (view the Changing of the Guard on days it's scheduled). Then, cruise the River Thames on a comfortable boat to the Tower of London, and delve into British history as you view the Crown Jewels.

...More

4.8

(148)

London Tour: Changing of the Guard, Westminster Abbey & Tower

Free Cancellation
7 hours

from $88

London Sightseeing Tour: Guard Change with Tower of London Option

Tick off the British capital’s most recognizable landmarks on this attraction-packed London tour. Explore St. Paul’s Cathedral, then make a photo stop at Westminster Abbey. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and visit the Tower of London, where you'll have free time for lunch (own expense). Enjoy an extended river Thames River cruise, and upgrade to cap everything with a London Eye ride or cream tea at Harrods.

...More

4.3

(2,679)

London Sightseeing Tour: Guard Change with Tower of London Option

Free Cancellation
4 to 9 hours

from $93

Special Offer

London 30 Top Sights with Fun Local Guide

Have only a limited time in the British capital? See the best of London in just half a day—and enjoy a more immersive way to see the sights—on this guided walking tour. Pick a start time that works best for you, and set off to explore London’s bustling heart and key landmarks. You can look forward to spotting sights like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and more.

...More

4.8

(2,192)

London 30 Top Sights with Fun Local Guide

Free Cancellation
5 hours

from

$58

$65

London: Buckingham Palace & Big Ben (& Westminster Abbey entry)

4.9

(556)

London: Buckingham Palace & Big Ben (& Westminster Abbey entry)

Free Cancellation
5 hours

from $132

Special Offer

Walking Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

London’s iconic landmarks are even more meaningful when you understand their history—but long lines and confusing routes can slow you down. On this guided tour, explore Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben with guided commentary that brings centuries of royal and political drama to life. Upgrade for skip-the-line entry and a fully guided visit inside Westminster Abbey, or choose the exterior tour with optional self-guided access to the Sunday organ recital.

...More

4.6

(1,241)

Walking Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

Free Cancellation
3 to 4 hours

from

$56

$93

Likely to Sell Out

Westminster Abbey Tour with Guard Change & Big Ben

Check out the Coronation Chair, plus all the details of the Jubilee Galleries, on this group tour of Westminster Abbey. Your guide tells you all about the history of Westminster Abbey and goes through all the monarchs and other important figures who are buried here. Skip-the-line admission tickets are included, so there's no need to wait to purchase passes. Just meet your guide and group and enjoy your tour.

...More

4.9

(47)

Westminster Abbey Tour with Guard Change & Big Ben

Free Cancellation
3 hours

from $120

London Sightseeing Walking Tour with 30+ sights

London is time-consuming to navigate independently. Skip the itinerary planning and relax on this action-packed walking tour that covers London's two most historic areas: the City of London and Westminster. See more than 30 landmarks, including Tower of London, London Bridge, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey, with questions, trivia, and photo ops to keep the atmosphere lively.

...More

5.0

(726)

London Sightseeing Walking Tour with 30+ sights

Free Cancellation
5 hours

from $26

Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & British Royalty Guided Tour

4.3

(293)

Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & British Royalty Guided Tour

Free Cancellation
2 hours 30 minutes

from $93

City Sightseeing London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Bookable Extras

Get the flexibility you're after with this London sightseeing bus package. Enjoy getting on and off at multiple stops, including Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Big Ben, and more. Choose how long you want your ticket for, and enjoy the freedom to go at your own pace. What's more, multi-day tickets include a free river cruise, a ride on the Route Master bus, and a night tour. Extra benefits include an AI-powered app with live bus tracking, audio commentary in multiple languages and kids's commentary on select routes.

...More

4.0

(1,257)

City Sightseeing London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Bookable Extras

Free Cancellation
2 hours 30 minutes

from $34

Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Guided Tour of London

Tick off London's top landmarks in just a few hours on this guided walking tour around the landmark-packed Westminster area. Admire icons including Big Ben and Buckingham Palace from the outside; then, save time with skip-the-line entry and a guided tour of Westminster Abbey. Along the way, your Blue Badge guide provides engaging commentary that goes beyond the typical guidebook, including facts about Britain’s long history.

...More

4.9

(559)

Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Guided Tour of London

Free Cancellation
4 hours

from $111

Westminster Guided Walking Tour with Abbey Entry

This attraction-packed London tour is a great choice for time-pressed travelers who want to explore the highlights of Westminster in half a day. Save hours of planning and join your guide for a guided walk that covers some of London’s most notable buildings. See Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament, and many more. Plus, there's no need to wait in long lines as entry to Westminster Abbey is included.

...More

4.8

(1,295)

Westminster Guided Walking Tour with Abbey Entry

Free Cancellation
5 hours

from $132

Buckingham Palace, St James Palace & Tea at Kensington Palace

Discover London's royal side—and have the special chance to admire three historic palaces, all in one day—on this walking tour. After stopping outside St. James's Palace, head to Buckingham Palace (and see the Changing of the Guard, depending on the day you've booked). Customize your tour with the option to upgrade your experience and step into one of the palaces. Then, cap it all off with traditional high tea, hosted right at Kensington Palace.

...More

5.0

(79)

Buckingham Palace, St James Palace & Tea at Kensington Palace

Free Cancellation
2 hours

from $169

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour and Visit of Churchill War Rooms

With such a high concentration of world-famous attractions, Westminster is an essential stop on any London sightseeing itinerary. After a walking tour of the borough’s major attractions, descend into the Churchill War Rooms to learn the secrets of the famous leader as he strategized during World War II. This landmark-packed tour is perfect for history buffs looking for a manageable but extensive tour to fit into a busy schedule.

...More

4.8

(975)

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour and Visit of Churchill War Rooms

Free Cancellation
5 hours

from $132

London Eye Ticket, Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Tour & River Cruise

See London from the streets, water, and sky with this great-value package that lets you explore at your own pace. Choose a 24- or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket with on-board commentary and open-top panoramic views. Enjoy an aerial view aboard the London Eye giant observation wheel and a one-way River Thames cruise between the Tower of London and Westminster Pier, available in either direction.

...More

3.6

(282)

London Eye Ticket, Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Tour & River Cruise

Free Cancellation
3 hours 35 minutes

from $81

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Experience London's highlights in just half a day with your expert cabbie guide on this black cab tour. You'll visit landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Covent Garden, Shakespeare's Globe, and the London Eye, enjoying photo stops and short walks at key locations. Your knowledgeable driver shares local secrets and personalized recommendations, offering an intimate London experience that large tour buses can't match.

...More

5.0

(2,790)

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Free Cancellation
4 hours

from $538

Per group

1 2 3

...

What are people saying about Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard Tour and Buckingham Palace

Himani_S, Apr 2026

Alan was great!

Alan was a great tour guide! We thoroughly enjoyed our tour with him. We wish we would’ve had better views of the Changing of the Guard and longer visits in front of a few of the stops to take more photos. Otherwise, everything was great.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Carson_W, Apr 2026

Great Tour

Richard was an excellent guide on our Changing of the Guard Tour. He was very personable, easy to understand, and made the tour very enjoyable!

Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London

April_B, Mar 2026

Wonderful tour

Our guide Paul was excellent. We had a fantastic view of the changing of the guards at St James Palace, along the PalMall and then again as they exited Buckingham Palace. I will highly recommend this tour.

Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London

Deb_R, Mar 2026

Joe was very...

Joe was very knowledgeable as our tour guide and funny! We learned so much about the history and changing of the guards ! We didn’t however see the guards close up in front of Buckingham Palace but from a distance like across the roundabout. Maybe because it ma off season.

Changing of the Guard Guided Tour at Buckingham Palace

Jeremy_G, Mar 2026

Such a great experience.

Paul provided such a wonderful experience. His knowledge of history and passion for the subject was very evident. The tour took what could have been a disappointment with trying to get a “front row seat” to an unforgettable experience with seeing parts of the changing of the guard that most people wouldn’t get to experience if they were to just try to find a space at the front.

Westminster Abbey Reserved Entry & Big Ben & Buckingham Tour

Ginny_B, Oct 2025

5 Star Tour - Adrian knows his stuff

Our tour guide was Adrian and he was excellent. He greeted us as soon as we arrived at our meeting spot, gave us audio headset and this worked great and allowed the tour to keep moving. He started it on time and accounted for all. He knows his stuff and we were able to see and learn so much more with him guiding us thru Westminster Abbey, info about "Big Ben", HorseGuard changing over, a great spot to watch the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham. Thank you Adrian. Highly recommend!