Present... arms! The pomp and splendour of the Changing of the Guard.
● Private walking tour for families, small groups, birthdays, etc (up to 20 persons).
● 2 hours approx, from Green Park underground station.
● Prices and practical information listed below. Bookings: tours@yourlondontours.com.
THEME & ITINERARY
This is a walk around St James’s, the area synonymous with royalty, and features the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace as its central theme. The Monarchy is an illogical British institution over 1,000 years old. It relies on mystique. Subject it to political criteria and the whole thing falls to dust. The late Queen Mother once compared it to Christmas tinsel, in that it shouldn’t be exposed to sunlight. Prince Philip said: ‘rationally it’s complete lunacy - but a lunacy people enjoy’.
En route, you’ll see a number of royal palaces and aristocratic houses. First, Spencer House, Princess Diana’s ancestral family home. Then we get as close as security will allow us to Clarence House, official residence of Prince Charles and Camilla, and maybe catch a glimpse of Princes William and Harry.
Next, St James's Palace, nearly 500 years old, and still the Queen’s official residence. There’s an opportunity to have a photograph in a genuine royal sentry box, or even better, standing next to a real guardsman.
Then we enter the processional route known as The Mall, aka Royal High Street! There’s a refreshment break in Royal St James’s Park, as we wait for the marching bands to strike up and begin the Changing of the Guard proper. All the Queen's horses and all the Queen's men in the kind of ceremony that only London does best. Make sure you have your cameras for this centuries-old pageant of colour.
After they have passed within a few feet of our vantage point, we march in step behind the guards up to Buckingham Palace. Your guide will bag you the best spot for photos, explain how you can tell one regiment from another, and regale you with regal tales. Have you heard the one about the burglar of Buckingham Palace? A story so embarrassing to the royal family, government and security forces, the full truth may never be told.
At the end of the walk we follow the guards the short distance back to their barracks, where there is a chance to visit the Guards' Museum and shop (entry fee). Alternatively you may want to take a tour of the fascinating royal stables (entry fee), or indeed, during August and September, see inside Buckingham Palace itself (entry fee). Your guide will advise you on these options.
ALL THE QUEEN'S MEN | 2 hours (approx). |
PRIVATE GUIDED LONDON WALK (1-20 persons) | £150.00 (per group) |
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
● General: This is a private walk for families or small groups (up to 20). We do not offer options for individuals to join existing groups. Additional guides required for groups 21+.
● Dates: We recommend early booking to secure your preferred date. Dates subject to availability of guides and access.
● The guide: The walk will be conducted by a fully accredited & qualified guide who will confirm your itinerary and provide a friendly, knowledgeable commentary throughout.
● Meet: The guide will meet your group outside Green Park London underground station. Please make sure your group does not block public access or exits.
● Timings: The duration of this walk is 2 hours approx. Start anytime after 10.00. Access to some areas may be restricted in late evenings/weekends.
● Price: As shown in the table above. Payment methods, privacy, cancellation and refund policies and full terms & conditions are listed on our Prices & Bookings page.
● Health & Safety: Clients should be in reasonable health for a 2-hour walking tour. Clients are responsible for own safety when crossing roads, climbing steps, etc.
● Clothing: Clients should dress appropriately for a 2-hour walking tour making allowances for the changeable British weather
● Format: Specially researched and designed by our staff (copyright applies). Exclusive to Your London Tours & associates. For walk/tour combinations see our Pick & Mix page.
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