Rather than standing still for hours, we see various stages of the ceremony, including the inspection, Old Guard, New Guard, Palaces, and even march alongside the Guards and Ceremonial Bands! Our tour guides have the experience, knowledge and humour to make sure you leave with an enviable set of pictures, an insight into what is going on, an anecdote or two, and most importantly, a memory which will last forever. We are endorsed by www.changing-guard.com and so have the backing of the most knowledgeable people out there.
Sadly, a great number of people go to see this world famous ceremony and leave disappointed. They stand at the gates of Buckingham Palace and wait uncomfortably for the action to happen, but are unaware that they have missed the majority of the pomp, ceremony, music and marching that takes place elsewhere. And that is why a Fun London Guide is invaluable in getting you around. If you like a fast paced tour, with plenty of action, excitement and fun, come on this walk. In order to stay ahead of the crowds we do have to move quickly at times - at one point we will even be marching alongside the band! We will also encounter at least one flight of steps so unfortunately it is not suitable for people with walking difficulties.
Please Note: We will not stand near the gates of Buckingham Palace on this tour. It is unfortunately impractical to take a group there and wait for two or more hours packed in like sardines in a can, but we can guarantee the tour will be a far more enjoyable and informative experience! For our own experience of 'how not to see the changing the guard' - standing at the gates of Buckingham Palace - you may wish to read this short article: View Here
Meet outside the Criterion Theatre by the statue of Eros at Piccadilly Circus tube station.
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Please arrive 10 minutes early!
Hi there, thanks for booking our Changing Guard Tour.
Your guide will be carrying a Fun London Tours flag and will meet you outside the Criterion Theatre (near the Statue of Eros) at Piccadilly Circus.
We begin the check in process 10 minutes before the tour starts - sorry, but we don't wait for latecomers! If you are running late, you may be able to catch up with the tour - our first stop is by the Duke of York column at Waterloo Place.
Remember this is walking tour so wear comfortable shoes and note there are no refreshment stops or comfort breaks during the tour. You may decide to bring a bottle of water and use the bathroom before you arrive. There are a few steps and a short period of marching and be prepared for any weather - this is London...
Talking of which, our tour goes ahead in all weather, but the British Army will occasionally cancel the ceremony if it is raining. They leave this decision to the very last minute, usually as late as 10.30am to give it every chance. If the ceremony is cancelled, we will see the Wet Change (the marching of guards without music) and almost certainly see horse guards as as a bonus.
Finally, London has its fare share of road closures, charity runs, tube closures, especially at the weekends, so leave yourself plenty of time to get here.
But the most important thing is to look forward to experiencing what for many people is their highlight of London!
See you soon,
Matt, Director of Fun London Tours