Buckingham Palace State Rooms and Changing of the Guard
- About 2.5 hours
- Shared guided group
- English guided walk; official Palace audio guide available in several languages
- Duke of York Column; the precise point can vary with the option and is confirmed after booking.
- 4.3(2,913 reviews)
A royal walk, the ceremony and a timed State Rooms visit
Two experiences in one. First, a guided walk through royal London to the best available spot for the day's Changing of the Guard or Horse Guards. Then reserved entry to the Palace State Rooms, open to visitors only part of the year.
Inside, you explore at your own pace with the official audio guide, including works from the Royal Collection.
The ceremony is run by the British authorities and can change or be cancelled at short notice, including for weather.
Best for
- First-timers who want a clear royal-history half day
- Visits during the State Rooms' annual opening season
- Guests fine with standing and walking outdoors
Highlights
- Guided walk and a good viewing spot for the ceremony
- Changing of the Guard on scheduled days
- Reserved entry to the State Rooms
- Official audio guide and Royal Collection works
Itinerary
Meet at Duke of York Column
StartThe confirmed meeting point and start time depend on the selected option.
Royal London walk and changing ceremony
About 1 hourThe guide interprets the day’s changing of the Foot or Horse Guards from the best available position.
Arrive at Buckingham Palace
TransitionEnter with the pre-reserved State Rooms ticket during the Palace’s annual visitor opening.
State Rooms with official audio guide
About 1 hourExplore the interiors and selected Royal Collection objects independently at your own pace.
Finish at Buckingham Palace
FinishContinue independently through St James’s, Green Park or Westminster.
What's included
- Expert English-speaking guide for the outdoor royal-London walk
- Viewing guidance for the changing ceremony available on the selected day
- Pre-reserved Buckingham Palace State Rooms entry during the annual public opening
- Official Buckingham Palace audio guide
- Audio headsets when required for the guide’s commentary
- Hotel pickup or drop-off
- Food, drinks and personal expenses
- Optional gratuities
Important information
- Buckingham Palace State Rooms are open to visitors only for a limited annual period. Check the live calendar before arranging the rest of a London stay around this activity.
- The Foot Guards ceremony does not run on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday. On those days the supplier offers a Westminster walking route; viewing the Horse Guards may be possible but is not guaranteed.
- British authorities can change, delay or cancel the ceremony because of weather or operational circumstances, sometimes only on the morning itself. The supplier substitutes a Westminster walk if this happens.
- The supplier lists the route as unsuitable for wheelchair users and guests with mobility impairments. Cameras and baby strollers are not permitted; wear comfortable shoes for standing and walking.
- The supplier offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Reconfirm the current Palace, ceremony and cancellation conditions for the booked date before paying.
Meeting and end point
Meeting point
Duke of York Column; the precise point can vary with the option and is confirmed after booking.
End point
Buckingham Palace
Not included — meet in central London and finish at Buckingham Palace.
Get there with Meilora
A private car from your hotel to the meeting point, timed for your slot. Fixed price, booked on Meilora.
