What’s the Best Way to See the Changing of the Guard in London?

Summer is high season in London. There are lots of visitors, plenty to do and many events that happen at specific times. The Changing of the Guard in London is one of them. Arrive too late and you may miss it. Arrive early and you still may find yourself looking over a lot of heads. And even if you can see the ceremony, will you know what is actually happening?

When I visited London in August 2014, I stopped to watch part of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. The crowds were so deep that I couldn’t see much of anything. And because I couldn’t really see what was happening or understand what was going on, I have to admit—it seemed boring to me.

I remember thinking there had to be a better way to experience it.

It turns out there is.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Rather than standing in one place and waiting for the Guards to come to you, a Changing of the Guard walking tour allows you to follow different parts of the ceremony.

Fun London Tours offers a walking tour that follows the Guards and ceremonial bands through the area around St James’s Palace, Buckingham Palace and Wellington Barracks. Instead of watching everything from one crowded vantage point, the guide moves the group to different locations as the ceremony unfolds.

At one point, you may even find yourself marching alongside the Guards and bands. Along the way, the guide explains what you’re seeing and helps you understand the traditions behind the ceremony.

There is one important consideration: this is a fast-paced walking tour. You need to be able to keep up with the group, and it isn’t a good choice for someone who has difficulty walking. Always check the current tour description and schedule before booking, since the Changing of the Guard schedule can change.

Why This Appeals to Me

What appeals to me about this tour is that it gives you a different way to experience the Changing of the Guard in London.You’re following the ceremony and learning what is happening along the way. Having a guide explain the traditions and move you to different vantage points can make the experience much more meaningful.

If this tour interests you, I would book it in advance, particularly if you’re visiting London during the busy summer months. And before booking, be realistic about the amount and pace of the walking involved.

There are plenty of other walking tours in London, too. Depending on your interests, you’ll find tours devoted to history, food, Harry Potter and some of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods. What I like about walking tours is the opportunity to experience your surroundings more personally rather than simply seeing them through the window of a bus.

And if theater is one of your interests, you might enjoy my four-day London theater itinerary, which combines performances with some of the city’s theatrical history.

The takeaway is simple: You can wait for the Guards to come to you, or you can follow the ceremony and learn what’s happening along the way. The experience is quite different.

Buckingham Palace Tour

If you’re visiting London during the summer, you may also have the opportunity to visit the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace. The State Rooms are open to visitors during the summer when the King is away from the Palace. The Royal Family spends its summer vacation in several places, traditionally including time at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

Opening dates vary from year to year, so check the current schedule before making your plans. Tickets can sell out, making this another experience worth arranging in advance.

A visit inside Buckingham Palace can be a wonderful addition to your day.Depending on the timing of your tickets, you could tour the Palace before or after seeing the Changing of the Guard in London.

My family and I toured Buckingham Palace on one of our visits to London. You can read about our experience in How to Tour Buckingham Palace in Style.

Seeing the Changing of the Guard is one thing. Understanding what you’re watching can make it a very different experience. The next time I’m in London, I know which way I’d choose.