Westminster Small Group Guided Tour with Changing of the Guard
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This two in one experience allows you to visit some of London’s most iconic sites alongside our expert guide in addition to attending the world famous changing of the guard’s ceremony outside Buckingham Palace. Walk past Big Ben, admire the residence of the British Prime Minister and learn about the historic occurrences on Trafalgar Square before having the picture-perfect view on the changing of the guard’s ceremony witnessing this spectacle from A to Z.
Beat the crowns with your expert guide for the best views and photos
Discover the magic and the splendor of the most iconic military parade
Learn about the fascinating history of the Kings and Queens old and new
Explore more than 2000 years of British history on a 3.5-hour tour
See the most iconic parts of London with an interactive and small group
Available options
Westminster Small Group Guided Tour with Changing of the Guard
What's included
10 Downing St (from outside)
Buckingham palace (from outside)
Changing of the Guard (or Household Cavalry)
Covent garden
Fully guided experience
Westminster Abbey (from outside)
Big Ben (from outside)
Trafalgar square
Churchills war rooms (from outside)
Westminster city
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Discover this shopping and entertainment hub amidst St. Martins & Drury Lane alongside of our guide. Learn about the history of the impressive opera house, which today homes the 3rd largest auditorium in London.
2
Stop 2
Linking back to Napoleons Battle this square has been a significant landmark since the early 1200’s. Our guide will walk you past its most impressive sculptures and share its corelating anecdotes.
3
Stop 3
This impressive church in Gothic style is significant and not to be missed when visiting London, as it has held 17 royal weddings in addition to plentiful burials and coronations since the year 1066.
4
Stop 4
Discover where Churchills hid from the German Blitz attack during the second world war and planned some of his most significant strategies. Though only visited externally our guide will bring its history back to live by touching on some of these sights most memorable stories.
5
Stop 5
When visiting some of London’s most impeccable sights 10 Downing Street (meaning, passing by the office of the British Prime Minister) cannot be missed. Though containing over 100 rooms, our guide will point out which floor to look out for to catch a glimpse of the Prime Minister.
6
Stop 6
Also known as the Elizabeth Tower, this stunning landmark is definitely one of London’s most famous. When the clock was completed, it was claimed to be the most accurate and largest of its kind, holding 5 enormous bells, of which the biggest weighing 13.5 tons is nicknamed as Big Ben.
7
Stop 7
Home to the British Royals and its famous beefeaters our guide will touch on the history of this impressive estate, following which you will attend the changing of the guard’s ceremony adjacent to the building.
8
Stop 8
Watch the famous changing of the guards on the palace square. Accompanied by music the old guards (also known as beefeaters) will ceremonially hand over the responsibility of guarding the Buckingham & St James’s palace to the new guards.
What's not included
Food/Beverages
Gratuities
Hotel Pick-Up / Drop-Off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
28 reviews
5★
28
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please note, if you book on a Friday you will witness the changing of the Household Cavalry
The British authorities reserve the right to change modify or cancel the Changing of the Guards ceremony without notice in the case of wet weather and other official events. In such cases, your guide will modify the tour to include an alternative Parade where possible, and share more highlights of the Westminster area.
In the case of heavy rain, you will see a wet change (guards marching without music).
For the Changing of the Guard ceremony, we do not stand by the Buckingham Palace gates. The crowds swarm there hours in advance, only to find they can only see the very end of the parade all while being crushed by the masses. Instead, we take you to the best spots only the locals know, and actually walk along with the parade! This way you see the absolute most there is to see, and it’s a much more enjoyable experience.
We highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes for this tour.
Please bring ID for kids 15 and under
For the Changing of the Guard ceremony, we do not stand by the Buckingham Palace gates. The crowds swarm there hours in advance, only to find they can only see the very end of the parade all while being crushed by the masses. Instead, we take you to the best spots only the locals know, and actually walk along with the parade! This way you see the absolute most there is to see, and it’s a much more enjoyable experience.
The British authorities reserve the right to change modify or cancel the Changing of the Guards ceremony without notice in the case of wet weather and other official events. In such cases, your guide will modify the tour to include an alternative Parade where possible, and share more highlights of the Westminster area.
Meeting point
Our guide will be waiting for you outside of Starbucks Coffee on 10th Russel Street, holding a sign with the Liv Tours Logo
Important notes
Please present either a digital or printed out version of your booking voucher to your guide on the day of your tour.
Please be at the meeting point 10-15 min prior to the tour start time. Our guide will await you there holding a sign with the LivTours logo.
ABOUT OUR 6 PEOPLE SMALL GROUP POLICY
When you book a LivTours Small Group Tour, you are guaranteed one tour guide per group of 6 people. Please bear in mind though that in order to accommodate traveling families and friends, we do on rare occasion make the exception of adding an additional one to two guests in order not to split groups who are traveling together. On that same note, you may find yourself on tour with less than six people. we hope you understand and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Angelo Carotenuto
Owner and Founder,
LivTours LLC
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
