Westminster Abbey and the Changing of the Guard Tour

A tour to Westminster Abbey followed by the Changing of the Guard ceremony

Early booking recommended
5
Exceptional
3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Up to 24 hours before the start time
Skip the line

You'll begin this tour with skip-the-line admission to Westminster Abbey, the site of royal coronations for over 1,000 years. This World Heritage Site is where every British monarch since William the Conqueror has been crowned. It has welcomed Kings, Queens and politicians, and has also been the venue for state funerals and royal weddings.

Following your visit to the abbey, your guide will lead you to see the Changing of the Guards ceremony. Depending on the day of the week, the ceremony will either take place at Buckingham Palace or the Horse Guards Parade. Your guide will suggest a prime position to view the formalities and share the history of the tradition.

Your tour will end at Buckingham Palace, the residence of Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. There, you'll get to see the balcony where the royal family appears for major events and hear tales of intruders and princes climbing the walls.

Why visit

  • Skip-the-line admission to Westminster Abbey
  • Chance to see a royal tradition involving the Queen's guards
  • The famous balcony of Buckingham Palace
  • Insight into the history of both tour stops

What's included

  • Skip-the-line admission to Westminster Abbey
  • Guide services
  • Small groups of 25 people or fewer
  • Headsets

What's not included

    What's not included
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Refreshments

    Restrictions

    • Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the activity starts.

    Additional information

    Please note that Westminster Abbey is subject to last-minute, unforeseen closures.

    Please note that the Changing of the Guard ceremony only takes place during favourable weather conditions. If the ceremony is cancelled, an extended walking tour will be offered instead.

    Please note that some sites may have heightened security measures in place which may delay entry.

    Large items or luggage are not allowed in Westminster Abbey and there is no on-site facility for storage. Please avoid bringing such items on the tour to avoid any disruptions or delays.

    Please wear clothing which covers your knees and shoulders to abide by the dress code at Westminster Abbey.

    Location

    Meeting point

    Westminster Abbey, London, SW1P 3PA
    Meet your guide at the tall column that is the Crimea and Indian Mutiny memorial, located opposite the west entrance of Westminster Abbey.

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