duration: 2 hours
cancellation_summary: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance of your tour.
meeting_point: National Gallery, London. Meet by the Red telephone booth by the Sainsbury Wing entrance of the National Gallery.
max_age: 99
group_size: Maximum 12 people
accessibility: Not Wheelchair Accessible - Not possible with Strollers
pricing:
description: Experience one of Britain’s most iconic traditions on this small-group walking tour through historic Westminster. With an expert guide, uncover the history behind the Changing of the Guard Ceremony as you witness this spectacular display of pageantry and precision.
Begin in the monumental Trafalgar Square, then follow the Royal Guard as they march in full ceremonial dress, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of military drums. Admire their perfectly groomed horses and distinctiv uniforms—scarlet tunics and towering bearskin hats—as you pass through Admiralty Arch, past St. James’s Palace, the most senior royal residence in Britain, and onto the historic parade grounds. Your guide will share stories of Britain’s most revered monarchs as the New Guard replaces the Old Guard in this centuries-old tradition. Conclude your tour with views of Buckingham Palace, where the guards arrive at their final post.
This tour offers a captivating glimpse into Britain’s royal heritage, blending history, ceremony, and spectacle. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of royal traditions, or simply looking for a quintessential London experience, the Changing of the Guard is a must-see event that brings the city’s royal past to life.
what_is_included: • SEMI-PRIVATE WALKING TOUR
• SEMI-PRIVATE" MEANS GROUP SIZE IS NEVER MORE THAN 12 GUESTS MAXIMUM
• PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDE
• DURATION 2.5 HOURS
• TOUR WILL RUN, RAIN OR SHINE
what_is_not_included: • Tour Price Does NOT Include Hotel Pickup or Drop-Off (We Recommend UBER or Taxi)
• Tour Does NOT Include Gratuities (OPTIONAL)
• Tour is NOT available for those with walking disabilities, using a wheelchair or with strollers.
itinerary: Stops generally include but are not limited to
-
Trafalgar Square – 10 minutes
One of London's most famous public squares, Trafalgar Square commemorates Britain’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar (1805). Over the centuries, it has been a hub for celebrations, protests, and public gatherings, standing as a symbol of British resilience. -
Nelson's Column – 10 minutes
Dominating the square, Nelson's Column honors Admiral Horatio Nelson, the legendary naval commander who died leading Britain to victory at Trafalgar. The column is guarded by four bronze lions, sculpted from melted-down French cannons captured in battle. -
Admiralty Arch – 10 minutes
An elegant gateway between The Mall and Trafalgar Square, Admiralty Arch was commissioned by King Edward VII in honor of Queen Victoria. Once a government building, it remains a striking symbol of London’s imperial past. -
Horse Guards Parade at Whitehall – 1 hour
The highlight of the tour, Horse Guards Parade is home to the Household Cavalry, who stand guard at the official entrance to St. James’s Palace and Buckingham Palace. Watch as the mounted sentries in full ceremonial dress carry out their precise and time-honored inspection, a tradition dating back to 1660. -
St. James’s Park – 10 minutes
London’s oldest Royal Park, St. James’s Park offers stunning views of Buckingham Palace and is known for its picturesque lake, resident pelicans, and beautifully maintained flower beds. -
Clarence House (Exterior Only) – 10 minutes
A historic royal residence, Clarence House was home to Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother for nearly 50 years and later became the official residence of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. -
Buckingham Palace (Exterior Only) - 10 minutes
The final stop is Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch. Stand before the grand gates, admire the famous balcony where the Royal Family greets the public, and witness the conclusion of the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a display of precision, discipline, and centuries-old tradition.
highlights: Highlights generally include: -
Trafalgar Square
Discover London’s most famous public square, a historic gathering place named after Britain’s greatest naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar (1805). -
Changing of the Guard Parade
Experience this centuries-old military tradition as the King’s Guards march from St. James’s Palace to Wellington Barracks, dressed in full ceremonial uniform. -
St. James’s Palace (Exterior Only)
See Britain’s oldest royal palace, built by Henry VIII in the 1530s, which remains an active residence and holds official royal events to this day. -
Horse Guards Parade
Watch the formal guard inspection at the Horse Guards Parade, where the Household Cavalry maintains a 365-day-a-year presence, protecting royal residences.
check_in_details: • It is imperative that you provide us with guest's MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including country code)
• Please arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes prior to the tour's scheduled departure time.
• Your guide will reach out to you the morning of the tour for any URGENT matters please reply to their message.
Their contact details are also sent to your email by the morning of your tour.
Babylon Tours
Phone / Text 0019179990380
Web: www.babylontours.com
Mail: babylontoursinfo@gmail.com
what_to_bring: • Recommended attire: Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
special_requirements: Children under a 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
restrictions: • Not wheelchair accessible
• Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• No large bags or suitcases; the tour involves outdoor stairs uneven pathways.
disclaimers: • The Changing of the Guard ceremony may be subject to last-minute cancellations without prior notice. If the ceremony is canceled, we will provide guests with an appropriate alternative. However, we are unable to offer refunds or discounts in such cases.
• The tour route may be affected by national celebrations. In such cases, we will provide guests with an alternative route, ensuring all highlights of the tour are still covered. Refunds or discounts cannot be provided in these situations.
• Latecomers risk missing their tour.
faqs: What time should I arrive for my tour?
- Please arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.
How will I recognize my guide?
- Your guide will be wearing a Babylon badge on a Babylon lanyard. They will also reach out to you on the morning of the tour to confirm the meeting point.
Are tickets included in the price?
- Yes! All tickets for the permanent collection are included and organized by Babylon Tours.
When will I receive my guide’s contact information?
- Your guide will reach out to you the morning of the tour by text and email. Please ensure you have provided your correct telephone number (including country code) and email beforehand. Please be sure to check your SPAM folder if you don’t see the email in your inbox.
Are you Viator?
- No, Viator is a booking platform and Online Travel Agent. They sell our tours, but we are Babylon Tours, a Tour Operator currently offering tours in 12 major cities worldwide!
Can I reschedule my tour?
- Yes! You can reschedule free of charge if you notify us at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. For rescheduling within 24 hours, a fee applies to cover guide payments, unused tickets, and company costs (no profit is made on this fee). If you booked through a booking platform like Viator or GetYourGuide, you must reschedule directly with them.
What do I do if I’m running late?
- Please inform your guide as soon as possible. As this is a semi-private tour, it must start on time. If your tour is ticketed, the guide will reply to your message with the tickets so you can enter the museum or monument on your own and try to join the guide inside if possible. Please note that once the tour begins, the guide will not be able to regularly check their phone.
What do I do if I have a medical issue and can’t attend the tour?
- Please let us know immediately by email to babylontoursinfo@gmail.com or by texting or calling +1 917 999 0380. Our refund policy does not cover medical issues that arise within 24 hours of the tour’s start. In such cases, please contact your travel insurance provider. We can provide a document confirming you were unable to attend.
What do I do if my transport is canceled and I can’t attend the tour?
- Please let us know immediately by email to babylontoursinfo@gmail.com or by texting or calling +1 917 999 0380 . Our refund policy does not cover transportation issues within 24 hours of the tour’s start. In such cases, please contact your travel insurance provider. We can provide a document confirming you were unable to attend.
Can I get my tickets before the tour and meet the guide inside?
- No, as the museum is large, locating the guide inside is challenging. The guide will meet you at the designated meeting point and accompany the group inside. However, you are welcome to stay in the museum after the tour ends!
Can I stay in the museum after the tour finishes?
- Yes, you are welcome to stay in the museum until it closes.
I don’t see my tickets in the email. How can I download them?
- Your guide will have your tickets. As long as you bring proof of ID, the guide’s name and number, and arrive at the meeting point on time, the guide will assist you with entry.
Will my walking tour run if the weather is bad?
- Yes, our tours run rain or shine. Please check the forecast and dress appropriately. Tours will only be canceled in the event of a dangerous weather alert from local authorities.
When will I receive my guide’s contact information?
Your guide’s name and number will be emailed and texted to you the evening before the tour by Babylon Tours. Please ensure you have provided your correct contact information and check your SPAM folder if you don’t see the email in your inbox. Your, the guide will also message you on the morning of the tour.
Are you Viator?
No, Viator is a booking platform and Online Travel Agent. They sell our tours, but we are Babylon Tours, a Tour Operator currently offering tours in 12 major cities worldwide!
Can I reschedule my tour?
Yes! You can reschedule free of charge if you notify us at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. For rescheduling within 24 hours, a fee applies to cover guide payments, unused tickets, and company costs (no profit is made on this fee). If you booked through a booking platform like Viator or GetYourGuide, you must reschedule directly with them.
What do I do if I’m running late?
Please inform your guide as soon as possible. As this is a semi-private tour, it must start on time. If you have whatsapp, your guide can send you a live location so that you can find them but please be aware, once the tour has started they will not be able to check their phone regularly.
What do I do if I have a medical issue and can’t attend the tour?
Please let us know immediately by email to babylontoursinfo@gmail.com or by texting or calling +1 917 999 0380. Our refund policy does not cover medical issues that arise within 24 hours of the tour’s start. In such cases, please contact your travel insurance provider. We can provide a document confirming you were unable to attend.
What do I do if my transport is canceled and I can’t attend the tour?
Please let us know immediately by email to babylontoursinfo@gmail.com or by texting or calling +1 917 999 0380 . Our refund policy does not cover transportation issues within 24 hours of the tour’s start. In such cases, please contact your travel insurance provider. We can provide a document confirming you were unable to attend.
Will my walking tour run if the weather is bad?
Yes, our tours run rain or shine. Please check the forecast and dress appropriately. Tours will only be canceled in the event of a dangerous weather alert from local authorities.
