England · BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOURS
The forecourt is free and busy from ten; the State Rooms open for about ten weeks a year. These 12 split into Changing of the Guard walking tours and timed palace entry, with the start points that get you a view rather than a shoulder.
Changing of the Guard walk from Piccadilly to the Mall. Small group, expert guide, smart viewing spots near Buckingham and St James.
“Lots of walking and crowds. But definitely worth doing with a guide. Bring water and snacks if you need them”
Prebook Buckingham Palace plus a guided walk to see the Changing of the Guard, with a self-guided State Rooms visit and audio.
“Bone up on British royalty history, otherwise you are going to be bowled over by trying to follow all the info presented. We had a very knowledgeable and easily understood guide and we were still a bit bowled over by the volume of info. The palace is an incredible expierence, as was the changing of the guard.”
Watch London’s Changing of the Guard with headsets, a small-group walk to prime viewpoints, and guided stories ending with free time at Buckingham Palace.
“We have used Viatour many times in many different countries and have always found the tours to be excellent. However, we are extremely disappointed with the tour we undertook this morning to watch the changing of the guard while in London. Our guide was nice enough and did share historical information along the way, he was very slow moving which meant that we never actually saw any part of the ceremony. Additionally, the tour description noted that we would have a preferred viewing area which was absolutely not the case. By the time we arrived at Buckingham Palace after missing views at the two other locations we were so far…”
Guided Changing of the Guard viewing plus royal palaces, parks, and a Royal Horseguards photo at Whitehall. Great value, easy meet-up.
“Rachel was a wonderful guide, a life long Londoner who clearly enjoyed sharing her knowledge with us. I saw so much and learned a lot more than I did watching the changing of the guard on my own a few years ago.”
Small-group London Changing of the Guard walk with prime viewing spots, St James's and Horse Guards, expert stories for $26.35.
“This was my 2nd tour with Babs and would book with her again. 10 out of 10. Total British experience”
Buckingham Palace State Rooms plus a live London highlights coach tour and classic afternoon tea, with timed entry and a prosecco option.
“The individual audios were great. It allows you to go at your own pace. All members of our family enjoyed the history and meaning behind many special pieces throughout the palace.”
Small-group Westminster walk from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben plus pre-booked Westminster Abbey entry, with guide stories and audio.
“Our guide Ash was incredibly knowledgeable and rather humorous. The places we saw were amazing and knowing the history made it even more special. Thanks Ash!”
Changing of the Guard with a guide, plus Westminster sights and Trafalgar Square. Smart viewing spots for photos for $24.95.
“Nice experience and our tour guide Alan is very very professional. Highly recommend to go with him. He was excellent — passionate, informative, and great at answering questions.”
Prime spots, a guided walk, and marching along the route for London’s Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.
“Loved our tour with Robin! He knew exactly where to stand for the best views, and it was wonderful hearing the stories behind the places along our walk from Trafalgar Square and the Battle of Waterloo to Horatio Nelson and fun royal family anecdotes. It added so much context and made the significance of the Changing of the Guard really come alive. There are a few moments of brisk walking. I was a bit concerned since my older parents don’t walk very fast, but we were still able to catch up. Just something to keep in mind if you’re with anyone who prefers a slower pace. Well worth the fee…”
Visit Buckingham Palace State Apartments with a guided walk down The Mall, then a self-paced audio tour. Small groups, about 2.5 hours.
“The tour guide was horrible! Kept making disparaging remarks about President of the United States also made disparaging remarks about different ethnic groups. Constantly mumbling and complaining. Was not very informative all in all not a fun experience.”
Afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace pairs classic British treats with a Royal Mews view across from Buckingham Palace.
“Afternoon Tea was wonderful! I'd definitely do this again. There were so many options for Tea and they took the time to explain to us what we would be eating. And everything was so delightful and so much we couldn't even eat it all. But it was a good experience that I would recommend.”
Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace in one day by air-conditioned coach, with included admissions and summer State Rooms access.
“We had a wonderful guide who was informative and funny. Everything was on time. Only problem was too many steps but that was expected. Fun and interesting day”
Every kind of day out in the country, best first.
