Changing Of The Guard Private Black Cab Tour with Hotel Pick Up
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience one of London’s most ionic traditions up close with our Changing of The Guard Tour. Start your day with a convenient hotel pick up in one of our classic black cabs and enjoy a comfortable ride through the city to Buckingham Palace.
You arrive in time to witness the world famous Changing of The Guard ceremony a display of British pageantry at its finest. Watch as the Kings Guard dressed in their iconic red tunics and bareskin hats, march with precision to the sounds of a live military band. Our knowledgeable drivers will guide you to the best vantage points to share fascinating insights into the history and tradition behind this century old spectacle.
After the ceremony take in the stunning surroundings of St James’s Park and the Royal architecture, before being whisked back to your hotel making this a hassle free and unforgettable London experience
All of our tours can carry 6 passengers and are fully wheelchair accessible
Available options
3-Hour Changing of The Guard
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Pickup included
2-Hour Changing of The Guard
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Private tour
Hotel pick up and drop off in central London
Private tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a traditional and symbolic ceremony where one group of the King’s Guard hands over responsibility to a new group. Held in front of the palace, this iconic event involves a display of military precision, with soldiers in their famous red tunics and bearskin hats. Accompanied by a regimental band, the ceremony attracts thousands of visitors, showcasing British pageantry at its finest. The guards, though ceremonial, are fully operational soldiers, adding to the grandeur of this historic routine.
2
Stop 2
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a traditional and symbolic ceremony where one group of the Queen’s Guard hands over responsibility to a new group. Held in front of the palace, this iconic event involves a display of military precision, with soldiers in their famous red tunics and bearskin hats. Accompanied by a regimental band, the ceremony attracts thousands of visitors, showcasing British pageantry at its finest. The guards, though ceremonial, are fully operational soldiers, adding to the grandeur of this historic routine.
3
Stop 3
Marlborough House, located on the Mall in London, is a historic building with deep royal connections. Built in the early 18th century for the Duke of Marlborough, it later became a royal residence and served as the home of several members of the British royal family. Today, it houses the headquarters of the Commonwealth of Nations, playing an important role in international diplomacy. Its elegant design and historical significance make Marlborough House a notable landmark in London’s royal and political landscape.
4
Stop 4
The Mall is a grand, tree-lined ceremonial road in London, running from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace. Designed in the early 20th century, it is known for its striking red surface, which resembles a giant red carpet, symbolizing its use for royal and state occasions. The Mall is often the focal point for major national events, such as royal processions, jubilees, and celebrations, making it a key part of British pageantry. Flanked by St. James’s Park and iconic buildings like Admiralty Arch, it is both a popular tourist route and a symbol of British tradition.
5
Stop 5
St James’s Park is the oldest of London’s Royal Parks, located in the heart of the city, near Buckingham Palace and The Mall. Originally created in the 16th century, it offers beautiful landscapes with a central lake, home to various waterfowl, including pelicans, which have been a feature since the 1600s. The park provides a tranquil green space amidst the bustling city, offering stunning views of landmarks like the London Eye and Horse Guards Parade. St James’s Park is also a popular spot for royal events and processions, blending natural beauty with British history.
What's not included
Heathrow airport hotel pick up and drop off
Food and drink
Attraction tickets
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About London
London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and dynamic cultural scene. From the ancient Tower of London to the modern Shard, the city offers a blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
Tower of London
A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. It has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and treasury. The Crown Jewels are also housed here.
Historical
2-3 hours
£28 (adult ticket)
Buckingham Palace
The official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms during the summer.
Historical
1-2 hours
£27.50 (adult ticket for State Rooms)
The British Museum
One of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free (special exhibitions may have a charge)
The London Eye
A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city.
Entertainment
30 minutes
£27-£33 (adult ticket)
Westminster Abbey
A large, mainly Gothic abbey church just to the west of the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the most notable religious buildings in the UK and the traditional place of coronation and burial for English and, later, British monarchs.
Religious
1-2 hours
£27 (adult ticket)
Tower Bridge
An iconic symbol of London, this combined bascule and suspension bridge spans the River Thames. Visitors can explore the bridge's walkways and the Tower Bridge Exhibition.
Architecture
1-2 hours
£11 (adult ticket for the exhibition)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish and Chips
A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries).
Dinner
Contains gluten and fish
Full English Breakfast
A hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.
Breakfast
Contains meat and gluten
Afternoon Tea
A quintessential British tradition involving a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries, all served with tea.
Snack
Can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets
Sunday Roast
A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.
Dinner
Contains meat and gluten
Popular Activities
Rock climbing
Kayaking on the Thames
Cycling tours
Afternoon tea
Spas and wellness centers
Punting on the River Cam
Museum visits
Theater performances
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in London, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and events. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be unpredictable.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
London is generally safe for travelers, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Heathrow Airport • 23 km from city center
- Gatwick Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
London Waterloo, London King's Cross
By bus
Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, Farringdon
Getting around
Public transport
The Tube is the fastest and most efficient way to get around London. It operates from early morning until late at night and covers all major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Westminster
Camden Town
Soho
Notting Hill
Shoreditch
Greenwich
Day trips
Windsor Castle
34 km from London • Half day to full day
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's one of the official residences of the British monarch.
Stonehenge
130 km from London • Full day
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, located in the English county of Wiltshire.
Brighton
80 km from London • Full day
Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, lively atmosphere, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Festivals
Notting Hill Carnival • Last Sunday and Monday of August
London Film Festival • October
New Year's Eve Fireworks • December 31
Pro tips
- Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for cheaper and more convenient public transportation
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions to skip the queue and save money
- Explore the city's neighborhoods and markets for a unique and authentic experience
- Try the local street food and international cuisine at markets like Borough Market and Camden Market
- Visit the city's parks and gardens for a peaceful escape from the bustling streets
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
