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Experience the Changing the Guard Ceremony Like Never Before: A Dynamic London Walking Tour - London

Experience the Changing the Guard Ceremony Like Never Before: A Dynamic London Walking Tour

Londonmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

1.5 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be comfortable walking briskly and managing stairs, with reasonable mobility required.

Overview

Discover the true spectacle of London’s Changing the Guard ceremony on a dynamic walking tour. Avoid crowds, move alongside the Guards and Bands, and gain insider insights that turn a famous ritual into an unforgettable experience.

London, England

Changing the Guard

Most Popular Tour!

Horse
Walking Tour

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Adventure Photos

Changing the Guard photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony like never before on this dynamic walking tour. Move through various stages of the event, march alongside the Guards and Bands, and enjoy insightful commentary from expert guides. Avoid the crowds and create unforgettable memories with stunning photos and fascinating anecdotes.

Most Popular Tour!

  • This is the London walking tour which will ensure you are in the best position possible to see the extraordinary Changing the Guard ceremony while avoiding the crowds at the gates of Buckingham Palace!

Duration

  • 1.5 Hours

About

Rather than standing still for hours, we see various stages of the ceremony, including the inspection, Old Guard, New Guard, Palaces, and even march alongside the Guards and Ceremonial Bands! Our tour guides have the experience, knowledge and humour to make sure you leave with an enviable set of pictures, an insight into what is going on, an anecdote or two, and most importantly, a memory which will last forever. We are endorsed by www.changing-guard.com and so have the backing of the most knowledgeable people out there.

Sadly, a great number of people go to see this world famous ceremony and leave disappointed. They stand at the gates of Buckingham Palace and wait uncomfortably for the action to happen, but are unaware that they have missed the majority of the pomp, ceremony, music and marching that takes place elsewhere. And that is why a Fun London Guide is invaluable in getting you around. If you like a fast paced tour, with plenty of action, excitement and fun, come on this walk. In order to stay ahead of the crowds we do have to move quickly at times - at one point we will even be marching alongside the band! We will also encounter at least one flight of steps so unfortunately it is not suitable for people with walking difficulties.

Please Note: We will not stand near the gates of Buckingham Palace on this tour. It is unfortunately impractical to take a group there and wait for two or more hours packed in like sardines in a can, but we can guarantee the tour will be a far more enjoyable and informative experience! For our own experience of 'how not to see the changing the guard' - standing at the gates of Buckingham Palace - you may wish to read this short article: View Here

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early

Get to the meeting point on time to secure your spot and maximize the experience.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Be prepared to walk briskly and climb stairs during the tour.

Bring a Camera

Capture unique moments of the ceremony away from crowded gates.

Stay Hydrated

Carry a water bottle, especially during warmer months as the tour moves quickly through outdoor areas.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Pigeons commonly seen around Buckingham Palace Gardens
  • Urban foxes occasionally spotted during early morning walks

History

The Changing the Guard ceremony dates back to the 17th century and is a symbol of the monarchy’s continuity and military discipline.

Conservation

The tour promotes responsible tourism by avoiding overcrowding at sensitive royal precincts and encourages respect for the ceremonial troops and surrounding landmarks.

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Adventure Hotspots in London

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Supportive footwear is crucial for the quick-paced walking and stairs involved.

Light jacket or raincoat

Essential

London weather can be unpredictable; a light rain layer keeps you dry.

spring specific

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Protect yourself from sun exposure during warmer months outdoors.

summer specific

Camera or smartphone with good battery

Essential

Capture the unique perspectives of this historic ceremony from vantage points few get to see.