Changing of the Guard Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Changing of the Guard. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

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

• London 30 Top Sights With Fun Local Guide

• Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London

• London Classic Landmarks Bike Tour With Local Guide

• Westminster Guided Walking Tour With Abbey Entry

While it’s free to visit the Changing of the Guard on your own, there are plenty of tours that can help you learn more about the ceremony with an expert guide who will handle all timings and logistics. Walking tours that take in the spectacle outside Buckingham Palace start at just US$20, while multi-stop London tours that include the Changing of the Guard begin around US$55.

Yes, the Changing of the Guard is worth seeing—it's one of the most popular recurring events in London; you'll see uniformed soldiers ceremonially handing over the duty of protecting Buckingham Palace (and other royal residences) to a new group of soldiers. You can visit independently to see the classically British pomp and spectacle, or visit with a guided tour to learn more about the history and scope out the best viewpoints.

Per one customer who booked the Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour in London, "Alex G. was the perfect tour guide. He led us through three stops to see the Changing of the Guard procession. Alex combined his knowledge and quick wit to share the history of the Westminster area. This is the way to see 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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting the Changing of the Guard. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in London:

• Buckingham Palace

• Tower of London

• Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

• Westminster Abbey

• London Eye

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in London.