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- Buckingham Palace
- Changing the Guard Ceremony
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Buckingham Palace Guided Tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Witness the iconic Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace.
- Catch the iconic Changing of the Foot Guards Ceremony on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays on a small group tour.
- On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, witness the Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace with a small group.
- Witness the Old Guard, in their vibrant red uniforms, being replaced by the New Guard in a formal ceremony as the regimental band plays a lively tune.
- Go on a 1.5-hour walking tour and stroll through St. James's Park, the Mall, and St. James's Palace, hearing stories from your English-speaking guide.
- Upgrade your tickets to get access to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms or a guided tour of Westminster Abbey, a World Heritage Site.
Witness the iconic Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace.
- Catch the iconic Changing of the Foot Guards Ceremony on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays on a small group tour.
- On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, witness the Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace with a small group.
- Witness the Old Guard, in their vibrant red uniforms, being replaced by the New Guard in a formal ceremony as the regimental band plays a lively tune.
- Go on a 1.5-hour walking tour and stroll through St. James's Park, the Mall, and St. James's Palace, hearing stories from your English-speaking guide.
- Upgrade your tickets to get access to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms or a guided tour of Westminster Abbey, a World Heritage Site.
Inclusions
- Changing of the Guard Ceremony outside Buckingham Palace (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays)
- Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday)
- Expert English-speaking tour guide
- Small group tour
- Audio headsets
Additional Paid Upgrades
- 1.5-hour walking tour around Buckingham Palace
- Entry to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms
- Guided tour of Westminster Abbey
- Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
- The Changing of the Foot Guards Ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
- Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday, you’ll see the Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony instead.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Explore Westminster, Big Ben & Buckingham Palace with a guide in a small-group tour setting!
- From royal tombs to palace gates— explore Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace in one smooth walking tour.
- For a history lesson that feels like a page-turner, listen to your English-speaking guide at the Abbey—they'll keep it fun and lively!
- Skip the crowds—this tour has just 15-20 people, so you can actually interact with your expert guide and get the inside scoop!
- Customize your visit! Choose between a Westminster Abbey English, French, or German guided tour or watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Explore Westminster, Big Ben & Buckingham Palace with a guide in a small-group tour setting!
- From royal tombs to palace gates— explore Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace in one smooth walking tour.
- For a history lesson that feels like a page-turner, listen to your English-speaking guide at the Abbey—they'll keep it fun and lively!
- Skip the crowds—this tour has just 15-20 people, so you can actually interact with your expert guide and get the inside scoop!
- Customize your visit! Choose between a Westminster Abbey English, French, or German guided tour or watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Inclusions
- Entry tickets to Westminster Abbey
- Small group of max 15-20 people
- Walking tour of the city of Westminster, including Big Ben
Additional Paid Upgrades
- Skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey
- Guided tour of Westminster Abbey
- Changing of the Guards ceremony (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays)
- Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday)
- Visit Big Ben
- Licensed English, German, or French-speaking guide
Exclusions
- Entry to Buckingham Palace
- Entry to Big Ben
Stop 1: Westminster Abbey
Stop 2: Palace of Westminster and Big Ben (entry not included)
Stop 3: Buckingham Palace (entry not included)
- Ensure your entry tickets and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.
- Alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages, and drones are not permitted on this experience.
- Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
- Flash photography is strictly prohibited at the venue.
- This experience is partially accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- With Braille and a hearing loop system, this experience is accessible for all.
- The venue provides free tickets for disabled individuals.
- For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
- Available facilities: restroom.
- Safety is a priority, so guests under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.
- While there is no strictly enforced dress code, please note that the Abbey is a place of worship, and it is better to be dressed modestly
- Select the 9:.30am slot to enter Westminster Abbey anytime between 9:30am-12pm on weekdays and 9am-12pm on Saturdays.
- Select the 12pm slot to enter Westminster Abbey anytime between 12pm-3pm on weekdays and 12pm-2:30pm on Saturdays.
- The Changing of the Foot Guards Ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
- Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday, you’ll see the Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony instead.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Guided Tours
Tower of London Guided Tours, Thames Cruise, and Changing of the Guards Ceremony
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Tower of London Ticket Office
Meet your English-speaking guide at the Ticket Office at the Tower of London.
0.16 km
3 minutes
1
Tower of London
Tickets included
The Tower of London, a historic castle on the banks of the River Thames, is a symbol of British power and history. This iconic fortress has served as a royal palace, an armory, a prison, and a treasury.
0.16 km
3 minutes
2
Thames River Cruise
8 attractions
Tickets included
Experience the magic of London from the River Thames, a relaxing and scenic way to explore the city! Cruise past iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and St Paul's Cathedral, while learning about the city's rich history and culture from your English-speaking guide.
Nearby things to do
Tower Bridge
21 min walk
The Shard
22 min walk
HMS Belfast
22 min walk
St. Paul's Cathedral
14 min walk
Shakespeare's Globe
15 min walk
London Eye
8 min walk
Big Ben
1 min walk
Westminster Abbey
2 min walk
3.37 km
27 minutes
3
Skip the lines at the Tower, & watch the Changing of the Guard.
- See the Tower of London, the Changing of the Guard, and a Thames River cruise in one day, saving time and money.
- Get a healthy dose of royalty as you marvel at the Crown Jewels at the Tower and the palatial residence of Buckingham Palace.
- With a guided tour of the Tower, the Thames River cruise, and the Buckingham Palace grounds, you can learn much about the city and its rich history.
- While skip-the-line early access to the Tower is guaranteed, you can also upgrade your experience to see the Beefeater (Yeoman Warders) opening ceremony.
Skip the lines at the Tower, & watch the Changing of the Guard.
- See the Tower of London, the Changing of the Guard, and a Thames River cruise in one day, saving time and money.
- Get a healthy dose of royalty as you marvel at the Crown Jewels at the Tower and the palatial residence of Buckingham Palace.
- With a guided tour of the Tower, the Thames River cruise, and the Buckingham Palace grounds, you can learn much about the city and its rich history.
- While skip-the-line early access to the Tower is guaranteed, you can also upgrade your experience to see the Beefeater (Yeoman Warders) opening ceremony.
Inclusions
Tower of London
- Guided tour of the Tower of London
- Skip-the-line early access
- English-speaking guide
- Opening ceremony at the Tower of London (as per option selected)
Thames River Cruise
- Sightseeing cruise on the River Thames
- English-speaking guide
Buckingham Palace
- Walking tour around Buckingham Palace
- Changing of the Guards ceremony (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays)
- Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
Exclusions
- Entry to the Buckingham Palace
- Hotel pick-up/drop-off
Tower of London, Changing of the Guard, and Thames River Cruise
- The Crown Jewels are a working collection and as a consequence, the display is subject to change without prior notice due to security reasons.
- Some lines may form due to increased security measures, even with skip-the-line access.
- In case the Changing of the Guard ceremony is canceled, you will be provided with a walking tour of Westminster instead.
- Keep in mind that large bags, sharp objects, and items that can cause security hazards are not allowed in these experiences. Pack wisely!
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for these experiences.
- These experiences are partially wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venues.
- The Changing of the Foot Guards Ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
- Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday, you’ll see the Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony instead.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
See London's famous sights and the Changing of the Guard ceremony from a comfortable coach
- Enjoy a luxury coach ride through London, led by an expert guide who provides insightful stories and anecdotes about the city's landmarks along the way.
- Benefit from an audio headset that lets you listen to your guide's engaging commentary about the ceremony and the rich history behind it.
- Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, a quintessential display of British tradition and pageantry.
- Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to observe the guards wearing their vibrant uniforms and bearskin hats as they march and take on the responsibility of guarding the palace.
- Elevate your experience with the option of a tranquil Thames River cruise or a delightful afternoon tea at the Rubens, overlooking Buckingham Palace.
See London's famous sights and the Changing of the Guard ceremony from a comfortable coach
- Enjoy a luxury coach ride through London, led by an expert guide who provides insightful stories and anecdotes about the city's landmarks along the way.
- Benefit from an audio headset that lets you listen to your guide's engaging commentary about the ceremony and the rich history behind it.
- Witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, a quintessential display of British tradition and pageantry.
- Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to observe the guards wearing their vibrant uniforms and bearskin hats as they march and take on the responsibility of guarding the palace.
- Elevate your experience with the option of a tranquil Thames River cruise or a delightful afternoon tea at the Rubens, overlooking Buckingham Palace.
Inclusions
- Guided coach tour to Buckingham Palace
- Changing of the Guard Ceremony (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays)
- Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday)
- Experienced guide
- WiFi and USB charging on board
- Personal audio headset
- Thames River cruise (as per option selected)
- Afternoon tea at the Rubens overlooking Buckingham Palace. See menu here (as per option selected)
- The Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday (subject to availability).
- The Changing of the Foot Guards Ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
- Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday, you’ll see the Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony instead.
- River cruise is independent and is a one-way trip from Westminster Pier to Tower Pier.
- Children aged between 3 to 16 years will be served the children's afternoon tea menu.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combos
Combo (Save 5%): Changing of the Guards + Tower of London Tickets
from £49.80
£47.31
5% off
See a historic ceremony and visit the iconic Tower with one ticket
- Say yes to savings with this combo ticket! Witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and explore the historic Tower of London.
- Experience the Changing of the Guard on a 1.5-hour guided walking tour in a small group setting.
- Gain unique insights into the guards' traditions with expert commentary and audio headsets.
- Visit the Tower of London to view the Crown Jewels, including regalia used in coronation ceremonies, and delve into their rich history.
- Explore The White Tower, the Medieval Palace, and the Bloody Tower, uncovering their historical significance and dark tales.
See a historic ceremony and visit the iconic Tower with one ticket
- Say yes to savings with this combo ticket! Witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and explore the historic Tower of London.
- Experience the Changing of the Guard on a 1.5-hour guided walking tour in a small group setting.
- Gain unique insights into the guards' traditions with expert commentary and audio headsets.
- Visit the Tower of London to view the Crown Jewels, including regalia used in coronation ceremonies, and delve into their rich history.
- Explore The White Tower, the Medieval Palace, and the Bloody Tower, uncovering their historical significance and dark tales.
Inclusions
Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace
- Changing of the Guard Ceremony (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays)
- Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday)
- 1.5-hour walking tour around Buckingham Palace
- Expert English-speaking tour guide
- Audio headsets
- Small group tour of 20 people or fewer
Tower of London
- Entry to the Tower of London
- Access to The Crown Jewels
Entry to:
- The White Tower
- Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula
- Battlements
- Medieval Palace
- Bloody Tower
- Torture at the Tower exhibition
- Fusiliers Museum
- Royal Mint exhibition
- Access to the children's activity trails and live historical re-enactments
Changing of the Guard
- Tip: After the ceremony, take a stroll through St. James's Park, located just opposite the palace, and enjoy views of the lake and wildlife.
- Changing of the Foot Guards Ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
- Please note that if you book your tour on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday, you’ll experience the Changing of the Horse Guard Ceremony.
Tower of London
- Tip: Look for the Tower of London's famous ravens near Buckingham Palace; these mythical birds are said to protect the monarchy.
- The Crown Jewels are a working collection and as a consequence, the display is subject to change without prior notice due to security reasons.
- Not all areas are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Trained assistance dogs are welcome.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in London
Which Buckingham Palace guided tour is best for you?
Small-Group Guided Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Suited for: History enthusiasts
Why go for it?
- With a small-group format limited to 20 guests, you can have a more intimate and personalized experience.
- The expert English-speaking guide will provide in-depth narration, offering historical insights about the Changing of the Guard ceremony, Buckingham Palace, and more.
- Learn all about the rich royal heritage of London, with visits to iconic sites like Buckingham Palace and St. James's Palace. The tour also includes stops at unique highlights such as The Queen's preferred alcohol shop and Prince Philip's barber.
Recommended Tours:
Small-Group Guided Tour Around Buckingham Palace with Changing of the Guard
Standard Guided Tour
Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
Suited for: Tourists seeking cultural experiences
Why go for it?
- This ticket provides the unique opportunity to observe the centuries-old Changing of the Guard ritual firsthand. It is a quintessential cultural experience of British history and tradition.
- Having an English-speaking tour guide will enhance the cultural experience, as they will provide you with valuable insights and interesting facts. You can learn about the palace's history, architecture, and significance within the context of British culture.
Recommended Tours:
Guided Tour of Buckingham Palace Interiors with Changing of the Guard
Buckingham Palace guided tour highlights
Changing of the Guard Ceremony
Witness the world-famous ceremony where the Old Guard, wearing red coats and bearskin hats, hands over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace to the New Guard, accompanied by music from the regimental band. The bands play stirring melodies while the guards execute precise marching maneuvers, marking the transition between detachments.
Picture Gallery
See the illustrious Buckingham Palace Picture Gallery, spanning an impressive 47 meters and showcasing some of the most esteemed paintings from the Royal Collection. With The Queen often loaning out artworks for exhibitions both within the UK and abroad, the gallery's collection sees regular rotation. Admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Titian, Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Dyck, Claude and Canaletto.
White Drawing Room
The White Drawing Room stands as a pinnacle among Buckingham Palace's State Rooms, where esteemed guests are received by The Queen and members of the Royal Family. As one of the palace's principal reception areas, it boasts opulent English and French furnishings and delicate porcelain.
Tip: For a fun exercise, try finding the hidden entrance through which the Queen enters the room during official receptions.
Throne Room
In contrast to the White Drawing Room the Throne Room commands attention with its vibrant scarlet decor. Within, you will find a pair of throne chairs, known as the Chairs of Estate, utilized during The Queen's coronation in 1953. You can also see chairs crafted for King George VI's coronation and a throne chair commissioned for Queen Victoria in 1837. Designed by architect John Nash, this room reflects seventeenth-century opulence, showcasing his background in stage set design.
Frequently asked questions about Buckingham Palace guided tours
What languages are available for the Buckingham Palace guided tours?
The Buckingham Palace guided tours are available in English.
How long is the average Buckingham Palace guided tour?
The average guided tour of Buckingham Palace typically lasts around 1 to 3 hours, depending on the itinerary and specific rooms visited during the tour.
How many people are typically in a Buckingham Palace tour group?
Buckingham Palace tour group sizes usually range from 15 to 25 people. However if you prefer a group with less than 20 people, you can choose the small group guided tour option.
Are there any age restrictions for the Buckingham Palace guided tours?
There are no age restrictions for guided tours of Buckingham Palace, but children under 16 require adult supervision.
What is the cancellation policy for Buckingham Palace guided tours?
That would depend on the ticket chosen, some guided tours cannot be cancelled or rescheduled. However for the standard guided tour you can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Are there additional facilities or amenities included with the Buckingham Palace guided tour?
Yes, you can witness the historic changing of the guard ceremony with a guided tour. You can also view the change of the household cavalry ceremony and visit the picture gallery.
Do the guides have professional training or certifications related to Buckingham Palace?
Yes, tour guides leading guided tours of Buckingham Palace have professional training or certifications related to the palace's history, architecture, and significance. They are knowledgeable experts who provide informative commentary throughout the tour.
Can I take photographs during the guided tour?
No, photography is not permitted inside Buckingham Palace. However your tour guide will provide further guidance if needed.