Changing of the Guard Walking Tour
London, Scotland
England is known for fish and chips, four seasons in a day, warm ale, history in spades and of course, a deeply ingrained age-old love for pomp and ceremony. Join us as we serve a slice of world-famous ceremonial action with this small-group Changing of the Guards experience.
There is so much more to this extravagant shift change than meets the eye though- with your expert guide to lead the way, you’ll soon know your Welsh from your Grenadier guard, understand what the deal is with those fuzzy bearskin hats, hear the astounding origins of this dazzling spectacle and truly get a handle on the significance of every colour, button, mascot, symbol and movement in this most British of traditions.
From the best possible viewing point, your small group will join the guards on their journey towards Buckingham Palace as you march to the beat of their drums... but what will the music be today?
Description
Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Changing of the Guard, Constitution Hill Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA England
Join us as we serve a slice of world-famous ceremonial action with this small-group Changing of the Guards experience.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: St. James's Palace, Marlborough Road, London SW1A 1BQ England
Built on the site of an old leper hospital, did you know that St James’s is the oldest royal palace in the whole of the UK? Take in this beauty, still the official royal residence today.
Visiting outside
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall, Horse Guards Whitehall, London SW1A 2AX England
Every day, come rain or shine, the Horseguards take part in their very own changing of the guards. Your guide will talk you through the symbolism and importance of this age-old tradition. And hey, the photos are great here too.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Buckingham Palace, Spur Road, London SW1A 1AA England
The most famous of King Charles III's palaces and housing a whopping 775 rooms, the stories attached to this icon have to be heard to be believed.
Visiting outside
Duration: 20 minutes
Offerings
Book by March 31 to save 5% off our previously offered price!
Inclusions
- Guided Changing of the Guard experience
- English Speaking local expert guide
- Maximum of 15 people in your group
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Food & drink
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off
Additional information
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- We tend to move pretty fast to keep up with the guards, so please wear comfortable shoes and always carry water.
- We will not stand at the forecourt of Buckingham Palace as, due to crowds, you see very little and the experience would be ten times less fun. We want to get you as close as possible with the opportunity to take some amazing snapshots.
- It is at the discretion of the British Army to change or cancel the Ceremony. The announcement will not be made until after 10.30am so come rain or shine, the Urban Saunters Changing of the Guard experience will go ahead. If the full ceremony is cancelled, there will still be the chance to see the guards marching, just without the music.
- No videoing of the guide unless they have given permission
- Ceremony can be altered at the discretion of the British Army, or occasionally due to rain
- There are no toilet or refreshment breaks on this tour
- Tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Ticket delivery
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
Operates
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.
Outdoor Activities
Walking Tours
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