The Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour is a captivating experience that allows visitors to enjoy the rich history and pageantry of London’s iconic landmarks. From witnessing the meticulously choreographed Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace to exploring the hallowed halls of Westminster Abbey, this guided tour offers a unique opportunity to gain insider knowledge and uncover the fascinating stories that lie beneath the surface. With strategic vantage points and a knowledgeable guide, you will come away with a deeper appreciation for the enduring traditions and grandeur that define the heart of the British capital. But what truly sets this tour apart is its ability to transport visitors back in time, leaving them eager to discover more about the city’s regal legacy.
Key Points
- This guided walking tour takes visitors to iconic London landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Downing Street.
- Participants have the opportunity to witness the captivating Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade.
- The knowledgeable guide provides colorful stories and royal anecdotes, enhancing the overall tour experience.
- The tour is approximately 2-3 hours long and includes strategic viewpoints for the best photo opportunities.
- The meeting point is near Green Park station, but the tour may not be suitable for those with walking difficulties.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Tour Details
- Changing of the Guard Schedules
- Meeting and Pickup
- Cancellation Policy
- Highlights and Inclusions
- Accessibility and Recommendations
- Transportation and Nearby Attractions
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in London
- More Tours in London
- More Tour Reviews in London
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in London we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour offers a guided walking exploration of the iconic landmarks in the heart of London, including Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace, Clarence House, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Downing Street.
With over 140 glowing reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides the opportunity to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at either Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide will regale you with colorful tales and royal anecdotes, helping you capture the best photos from strategically chosen viewpoints.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner, this comprehensive tour is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of the city’s rich history and pageantry.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.
Tour Details
Typically, the Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour lasts approximately 2-3 hours, encompassing a guided exploration of the area’s renowned landmarks.
The tour includes the following:
- An expert guide who regales travelers with colorful tales and royal anecdotes.
- No food or drink, and no gratuities are provided.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller and service animal friendly.
The tour is located near public transportation at the Green Park station, though it’s not recommended for those with walking difficulties as the pace can be brisk at times. The tour welcomes a maximum of 35 travelers.
Changing of the Guard Schedules
The Changing of the Foot Guards at Buckingham Palace occurs on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, while the Changing of the Kings Horse Guards at Horse Guards Parade takes place on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
However, the Changing of the Guard Ceremony is subject to change or cancellation without notice, at the discretion of the British Army. This means that the schedule can be unpredictable, and visitors should check for any updates or changes before planning their tour.
The guards’ movements and the ceremonial display are a captivating sight, and many travelers make a point of witnessing this iconic event during their visit to London.
Meeting and Pickup
Travelers can find the meeting point at Colicci Ritz Corner, Green Park (Stop H, London W1J 9DZ, UK), where they’ll enter Green Park via the entrance gates next to the Ritz Hotel.
If taking the underground, they’ll disembark at Green Park Station. This convenient location provides easy access to the tour’s starting point.
The guide will be waiting to greet the group and lead them on their exploration of the Royal Westminster sights.
To ensure a smooth experience, travelers are advised to arrive a few minutes early. With clear instructions and a designated meeting place, the tour’s logistics are well-organized, allowing participants to focus on the fascinating history and sights ahead.
- Meeting point: Colicci Ritz Corner, Green Park
- Entrance: Via the gates next to the Ritz Hotel
- Underground station: Green Park
- Arrival time: Recommended to arrive a few minutes early
Cancellation Policy
This tour’s cancellation policy offers travelers flexibility and protection. Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the company will provide alternative dates or a full refund if the tour is canceled due to poor weather or insufficient attendance.
If the Changing of the Guard ceremony is canceled by the British Army, guests won’t be left disappointed – the tour will continue with visits to the other royal landmarks.
The company understands that travel plans can change, so they’ve designed a policy that allows guests to book with confidence, knowing they’ve options if their plans need to be adjusted. This thoughtful approach helps ensure a hassle-free experience.
Highlights and Inclusions
A professionally guided walking tour of Royal Westminster, including iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace, Clarence House, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Downing Street, allows guests to capture the best photos from specially chosen viewpoints.
The knowledgeable guide will regale you with colorful tales and royal anecdotes, immersing you in the rich history and pageantry of the area.
The tour includes:
- Guided walking tour of Royal Westminster
- Witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade
- Expert guide to provide historical context and insider knowledge
- Opportunity to take stunning photographs at the most picturesque locations
This comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the grandeur and traditions of London’s royal heritage.
Accessibility and Recommendations
Accessibility to this tour is limited, as the brisk pace and walking requirements may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. However, the tour is stroller and service animal friendly, accommodating a range of travelers.
While not wheelchair accessible, those with walking difficulties may find certain portions of the tour taxing. The tour’s proximity to public transportation at Green Park station enhances accessibility for most visitors.
The tour isn’t recommended for individuals with significant walking difficulties, as the guide’s fast-paced nature and the tour’s brisk tempo could prove too demanding. Plus, the weather-dependent nature of the Changing of the Guard ceremony may impact the overall experience for some travelers.
Transportation and Nearby Attractions
The tour’s location near Green Park station makes it easily accessible via public transportation, allowing visitors to conveniently reach the meeting point.
Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament are all within walking distance of the tour’s starting point, providing ample opportunity for sightseeing before or after the guided experience.
Nearby attractions that visitors may wish to explore include:
- The Royal Parks, such as Green Park and St. James’s Park, offering beautiful green spaces for relaxation and exploration.
- The shops and restaurants of the upscale neighborhoods surrounding Buckingham Palace and along Regent Street.
- The Churchill War Rooms, a museum dedicated to the wartime leadership of Sir Winston Churchill.
- The National Gallery, home to an impressive collection of world-renowned art.
Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour
“Our tour guide Alan was perfect. He placed our group in perfect placement to get an amazing experience.”
Recap
The Royal Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour offers an immersive exploration of London’s iconic landmarks.
Participants will witness the captivating Changing of the Guard ceremony, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide’s colorful tales and royal anecdotes.
The tour’s strategic viewpoints ensure the best photo opportunities, making it a must-do experience for visitors to the city.
