• General Jan Smuts Statue - The Changing of the Guard Tour kicks off at the General Jan Smuts statue, the only green statue in Parliament Square, making it an easy landmark to locate. Please arrive by 9:35 am to give your guide time to welcome the group. The nearest Underground station is Westminster, accessible via the District, Circle, and Jubilee lines, just a short walk away.

Your knowledgeable tour guide will be at the statue with a placard displaying the tour name, ready to greet you and provide a brief introduction. They will outline the day’s itinerary, share key historical insights, and answer any questions before you embark on this royal London experience, ensuring your morning begins smoothly and memorably.

• Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall - From Parliament Square, the tour proceeds to the historic Horse Guards Parade in London, home to the renowned Household Cavalry. Here, you’ll witness the troopers and their magnificent horses take their positions in the sentry boxes on Whitehall, a tradition upheld for centuries. This ceremonial guard change is one of the most photographed attractions in London and a highlight of any Changing of the Guard tour. A must-see for anyone interested in British history, pageantry, and iconic landmarks.
• The Mall - From there, the tour continues down The Mall, London’s grand ceremonial boulevard, towards St James’s Palace. Here, you’ll observe the palace guards form up and march in a striking procession as they head towards Buckingham Palace — a truly memorable moment in the Changing of the Guard tradition.
• Wellington Barracks - Visit Wellington Barracks, the historic headquarters of the Foot Guards, where you’ll see the new guards preparing to march to Buckingham Palace. Watch as the soldiers assemble in full uniform, accompanied by a regimental band. This behind-the-scenes moment offers a closer look at the precision and discipline behind the Changing of the Guard ceremony. A unique opportunity to experience royal tradition before the parade begins.
• Buckingham Palace - From the West Africa Gate, enjoy views of Buckingham Palace from the outside, taking in its iconic façade and royal surroundings. Please note, access to the front gates of the palace is not included — this stop is all about admiring the palace from a perfect vantage point while avoiding the main crowds. Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British sovereign, symbolizes the United Kingdom’s royal tradition and cultural legacy. Constructed in 1703 and expanded over time, it boasts 775 rooms, including the Throne Room and lavish Ballroom. The world-famous Changing of the Guard draws millions annually. Framed by stunning gardens, the palace continues as a working institution, hosting state events and offering a regal setting for national celebrations.
• Clarence House - Clarence House, located in St James’s, London, serves as the official residence of King Charles III and his family. Built during the 1820s, the elegant home has been a royal dwelling for many notable members of the monarchy. The house retains its heritage charm while continuing to function as a working royal residence. Public access is limited, but its historic significance and royal connections remain profound.
• St. James’s Palace - The tour concludes at St James’s Palace, where the final group of new guards arrive before making their way towards Buckingham Palace. From here, your guide will offer tips and advice if you’d like to explore more of Buckingham Palace and its surroundings on your own. By this time, much of the crowd has begun to leave, giving you a more relaxed chance to take photos and enjoy the royal setting. It’s the perfect way to round off your Changing of the Guard experience at your own pace. St James’s Palace is among the oldest royal residences, established in 1536. Commissioned by Henry VIII, it served as the monarch’s official home until the 18th century. While no longer an active residence, it retains deep ceremonial significance and houses several royal offices today. This historic landmark remains central to important state functions and showcases Tudor architecture in the heart of London.

• Get up close for photos of the Royal Horse guards of the Household Cavalry
• Guided walking tour of the Changing of the Guard ceremony
• Expert tour guide from an award-winning company
• Capture memorable photos at Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace and Clarence House

• Gratuities (optional)
• Entrance tickets to Buckingham Palace
• Tour does not go to Buckingham Palace’s front gates

Discover London’s most renowned royal tradition with a celebrated Changing of the Guard tour. Enjoy exclusive views of the ceremony from prime locations, observe the guards and horses up close, and gain behind-the-scenes insights not available on a regular tour. Led by experts, explore historic sites such as Wellington Barracks, St James’s Palace, and Horse Guards Parade while learning about centuries of British pageantry and royal history. Avoid the crowds and capture unforgettable photos at Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, and other significant sites. This tour is crafted to provide a unique, immersive, and memorable royal London experience from beginning to end.

• Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours
• Maximum group size of 20 for a personalized experience
• Meet at Jan Smutts Statue at Parliament Square
• Not wheelchair accessible; suitable for all ages with moderate mobility
• The tour begins at 9:45 am, with a recommended reporting time of 9:35 am. If you arrive late, the guide will meet you at the next stop along the route, joining you with the group already in progress.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.