The Changing of the Guard - Exclusive Guided Walking Tour

London, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (23 reviews)

Highlights

  • Exclusive guided walking tour of the changing of the guards
  • Learn about the history of Trafalgar Square
  • Witness the iconic Nelson's Column monument
  • Discover the rich history of Admiralty Arch
  • See members of the Household Cavalry at Horse Guards Parade

Meeting Point

National Gallery, London. Meet by the Red telephone booth by the Sainsbury Wing entrance of the National Gallery.

Meeting point

The National Gallery, London WC2N 5DN , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1

Trafalgar Square

After meeting your guide outside the National Gallery, in Trafalgar Square, you will learn all about the history of this public square which commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory in the Napoleonic Wars over France and Spain. During its history, the square has been a place for protests and demonstrations which continue to this day.

Duration 10 minutes
2

Nelson's Column

Nelson's Column is a monument in Trafalgar Square, built to commemorate Admiral Horatio Nelson, who died at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Duration 10 minutes
3

Admiralty Arch

Next you will discover the rich history and heritage of Admiralty Arch, a landmark building in London, providing road and pedestrian access between the Mall and Trafalgar Square. It was commissioned by King Edward VII in memory of his mother, Queen Victoria.

Duration 10 minutes
4

Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall

You will then move on to see the Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall, where you will see members of the Household Cavalry, there to protect the official entrance to St. James Palace and Buckingham Palace.

Duration 60 minutes
5

St. James's Palace

Afterwards, you will see the beautiful St. James’s Park, the oldest Royal Park in the city which is known for its impressive lake views, pelicans and flower beds located in front of Buckingham Palace.

Duration 10 minutes
6

Clarence House

Surrounding St. James’s Park, you will see Clarence House, a British Royal Residence. It was the home to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother from 1953 until 2002, and it has since been the official residence of Charles, Prince of Wales and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.

Duration 10 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    It is imperative that you provide us with guests MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including country code)
  • Additional information
    Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Additional information
    Notes: Changing the Guard can sometimes be cancelled, especially in wet weather. The decision to cancel can be made, by the Captain of the Guard , sometimes as late as 10:45 on the day. This means we cannot update our website in time to help people en-route or already at the Palace. Schedules can and do change from time to time, sometimes without notice, meaning we cannot guarantee the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace will take place on the dates stated or accept any responsibility for loss or inconvenience caused by using the information provided on this website Keep updated: https://www.householddivision.org.uk/changing-the-guard-calendar
Provided by Babylon Tours London

What our experts say

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    Dress warmly; it can be chilly.
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    Plan to arrive early for good spots.
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    Visit nearby National Gallery after.
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    Check weather updates for cancellations.
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    Consider dining at nearby The Wolseley.

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