About this experience
Stroll through the heart of London while listening to tales of the British Royal Family. Visit St. James' Palace, commissioned by Henry VIII and now Princess Anne's London residence. You may witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, then take a peek at the secret courtyard where some of the last sword duels in London took place. Delve into history as you pass by the world's oldest hat shop, the city's oldest wine shop, Prince Philip's barber, and more.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Meeting point — Buckingham Palace Gate bus stop
10:00 AMMake your own way to the Tourist Bus Stop on Buckingham Gate, outside the King's Gallery (SW1A 1AA), where your guide will be waiting.
St. James's Palace
View one of London's oldest royal palaces, commissioned by Henry VIII and still an official royal residence today.
Changing of the Guard
Watch the ceremonial handover at Buckingham Palace Forecourt — a 45-minute spectacle of military precision and pageantry.
Clarence House
Pass the London home of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, with your guide filling in the modern royal story.
St. James's area — shops and secrets
Walk through St. James's to discover the city's oldest wine shop, the hat shop that has traded since 1676, and a hidden courtyard with a duelling past.
Horse Guards
Visit the historic Horse Guards building, an alternative photo stop if the Changing of the Guard is not running that day.
End of tour — Westminster Abbey
11:30 AMThe walk concludes at Westminster Abbey at approximately 11:30 AM, leaving you well placed to continue your day independently.
Meeting point
Buckingham Palace Gate Tourist Bus Stop, Buckingham Gate, London SW1A 1AA (outside the King's Gallery)
Make your own way to the meeting point. Look for your guide at the Tourist Bus Stop on Buckingham Gate, directly outside the King's Gallery entrance. No need to print a ticket — show your booking confirmation on your phone.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Booking confirmation (mobile or printed)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Know before you go
Good to know
Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the start are non-refundable.
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Frequently asked questions
Will we definitely see the Changing of the Guard?
The Changing of the Guard takes place at Buckingham Palace every Monday, Friday, and Sunday, starting at 10:45 AM. The ceremony can be cancelled in bad weather — on those days, your guide will take the group to the Horse Guards instead.
Where exactly do we meet, and how will I find my guide?
Meet at the Tourist Bus Stop on Buckingham Gate, SW1A 1AA — directly outside the King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace. Your guide will be there at 10:00 AM.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No. Your mobile booking confirmation is all you need — just show it to your guide at the meeting point.
Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes. Children under 5 are admitted free of charge and do not need a separate ticket, but must be accompanied by an adult throughout.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs from 10:00 AM to approximately 11:30 AM — around 90 minutes in total. It ends near Westminster Abbey.
Can the itinerary change on the day?
The route is subject to change due to events, road closures, or weather. The guide will always find the best alternative — for example, visiting Horse Guards if the Changing of the Guard is cancelled. On some days the tour may end at Buckingham Palace rather than Westminster Abbey.