London Westminster Express and Guard Change

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Full details

Skip the line into Westminster Abbey and witness the world-famous Changing of the Guard as you watch the King’s Guard perform centuries-old ceremonies.

Our guide to London Westminster Express and Guard Change

Immerse yourself in two iconic London experiences in one morning on this unforgettable tour. Begin your day with skip-the-line access to Westminster Abbey and explore one of England's most legendary monuments with a guide who knows the site like the back of their hand. From there, you're off to the Changing of the Guard. But you won’t just watch the ceremony—you'll get as close as you can to the action. Your guide will lead you straight to the best vantage points and most secluded spots for a close-up peek at London’s most popular spectacle. Witness two different ceremonies from four different angles as your guide regales you with the unbelievable history of the iconic tradition.

Your morning begins with skip-the-line access to one of the most storied buildings in the United Kingdom: Westminster Abbey. From royal weddings and funerals to coronations and more, this site has witnessed countless events that are immortalized in history books around the world. There's a lot to see here—from the Coronation Chair and the stunning High Altar to the tombs of countless historical greats—and trying to navigate it on your own can feel overwhelming. Luckily, your guide will lead you straight to the can't-miss spots so you can make the most of every second in this sacred space.

After leaving the Abbey, you'll make your way over to St. James Palace to witness the guards preparing to make their famous march. These are real soldiers with real weapons carrying out their daily duty of protecting the Palace. Hear about what their duties include and the significance of their highly symbolic uniforms.

Last but not least, you'll march alongside the soldiers and head to a special vantage point near the Wellington Barracks, home to all the Foot Guard’s Bands, that lets you get as close as possible to the action. Stroll across St. James’s Park to learn the history of this royal green space and arrive at the Horse Guards Parade. Watch the equally impressive Changing of the King’s Life Guard, which features mounted, armor-clad soldiers and their immaculately groomed steeds.

Duration

3.5 hours

Terms and conditions

Terms and conditions for London Westminster Express and Guard Change

  • Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. Out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
  • Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
  • This tour is in English.
  • This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
  • Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
  • Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
  • All guests must pass through security.
  • Please note that or security reasons bag searches will take place at Westminster Abbey.
  • Photography is only allowed in certain areas of the Abbey but Videography is strictly prohibited inside Abbey.
  • Comfortable Walking shoes are recommended.
  • Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
  • IMPORTANT NOTE - The Changing of the Guard is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. When this occurs, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music or parade.
  • *Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 3 calendar days before departure.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions for London Westminster Express and Guard Change

Frequently Asked Questions for London Westminster Express and Guard Change

Ticket Information

  • What does this tour include?

    This tour includes skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey, a fully guided visit with a local expert, and a guided experience of the Changing of the Guard with prime viewing spots.

Duration of Visit

  • How long is the tour?

    The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and takes place in the morning.

General Information

  • Is the Changing of the Guard guaranteed to take place?

    The Changing of the Guard is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. When this occurs, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music or parade.

  • Will we go inside Buckingham Palace?

    No, the tour does not include entry to Buckingham Palace. However, you will view the Changing of the Guard at multiple key locations, including outside the Palace.

Opening Information

  • What time does the tour start?

    Start times may vary slightly by season, but typically the tour begins between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM.

Frequently Asked Questions for London Westminster Express and Guard Change

Ticket Information

  • What does this tour include?

    This tour includes skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey, a fully guided visit with a local expert, and a guided experience of the Changing of the Guard with prime viewing spots.

Duration of Visit

  • How long is the tour?

    The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and takes place in the morning.

General Information

  • Is the Changing of the Guard guaranteed to take place?

    The Changing of the Guard is subject to changes in date, time and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before 11am. When this occurs, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music or parade.

  • Will we go inside Buckingham Palace?

    No, the tour does not include entry to Buckingham Palace. However, you will view the Changing of the Guard at multiple key locations, including outside the Palace.

Opening Information

  • What time does the tour start?

    Start times may vary slightly by season, but typically the tour begins between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM.

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