The Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic traditions in London, drawing in crowds of locals and tourists …
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Jan 5, 2025
Despite the crowds, this was 1 of the most enjoyable activities in London. Our guide Jeremy took us past the nicest places and managed to take us into the inspiring history of the British royal famil… Full review by Paradise21124831889
Sep 14, 2024
It is definitely worth seeing at least once in your life. However, I regret not arriving much earlier—probably at least an hour ahead of time. The crowds are big, especially in the summer, and once t… Full review by ksltravel
Aug 23, 2024
It is amongst Londons leading tourist attractions and a great spectacle. Wonderful to hear the band playing as it marches between St James’s and Buckingham Palace’s. The mounted cavalry are a wonde… Full review by John R
Hello. We are planning a palace tour after Changing of the Guards. What would be the best time to book tickets for the state room tour afterwards? How much time do we need between the end of the ceremony and getting to start of tour area? Thank you!
A:
Skip the changing of the guard. Even at the fence you don't see much. You have to climb up on the monument outside the gate about 2 hours early to see it best. What a waste of time!! …
Skip the changing of the guard. Even at the fence you don't see much. You have to climb up on the monument outside the gate about 2 hours early to see it best. What a waste of time!! The state rooms are wonderful. Can't recall how far but I got around by walking most everywhere or a quick hop on the bus.
We arrived at 10:30 am on a Monday and bought our tickets ahead of time. Note you need to have a printed copy of the ticket, so I had to figure that out in the hotel, but earlier the …
We arrived at 10:30 am on a Monday and bought our tickets ahead of time. Note you need to have a printed copy of the ticket, so I had to figure that out in the hotel, but earlier the better! We got right in at that time.
Hi, I'd like to see the changing of the guards but I'm going with a little toddler and I'll have my stroller with me. I don't mind not seeing the actual changing of the guards, but I'd like to have a nice view where my little one can actually see some guards and horses marching by. Is there a good spot? Or should I just scrap that off my list? Thanks =D
A:
Hello: Victoria Fountain is directly in front of Buckingham Palace and is perfect for viewing all activities from a slightly elevated platform. The area that encircles the fountain is raised and …
Hello: Victoria Fountain is directly in front of Buckingham Palace and is perfect for viewing all activities from a slightly elevated platform. The area that encircles the fountain is raised and wide. Get there at least one hour before the guard changing(check website for times, also I don't remember if the ceremony changing is daily), for the best view directly in front of the palace. Bring plenty of snacks and patience because from the time you get there until the police allow you to leave the area will be at least 2-3 hrs. I was right up against the gates , but if I were to go again, that's where I would be. The guards and horses will enter from your left as you face the palace and enter the grounds almost directly in front of you. Do not miss the opportunity with the kiddos. If old enough, they will remember that incredible and historic pageantry forever. Hope this helps. Enjoy! Enjoy!
Can I go to the Buckingham Palace to watch the changing of the guards on my own? Or joining a tour is recommendable? I know that in order to get good viewing position I must go there early, perhaps, 2-3 hours before the starting of the ceremony. Are tours given certain privilage to have positions reserved so that tour members could still have better viewing positions even arriving just half an hour before the ceremony? Thanks
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Nothing keeps you from doing it on your own, but joining a tour is the best way to get some very interesting stories and historical détails! And you won't have to come early : I …
Nothing keeps you from doing it on your own, but joining a tour is the best way to get some very interesting stories and historical détails! And you won't have to come early : I don't know if tours are given special positions, but our guide Gavin knew his way to give us a great spot!
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