Changing of the Guards and Westminster City - Walking Tour

 

Enjoy Westminster City and the Changing of the Guards – two of London's most iconic experiences in just one morning! Highlights - See Westminster Abbey from outside, site of royal coronations, royal weddings, and the resting place of monarchs, poets and famous historical figures from the last 1000 years of British history - Watch the Changing of the Guards, a tradition of pomp and pageantry typically British that never fails to impress - Explore the rich history of the City of Westminster and learn about British political life See British tradition come to life on this fully-guided Changing of the Guard and City of Westminster walking tour and experience London’s famous time-honored tradition. Follow your guide on a dynamic journey that takes in the entire Changing of the Guard from beginning to end as they expertly navigate the crowds to take you to the best and most photographable viewpoints. Your guide is an expert on the history of this fascinating ceremony and their knowledge will give you invaluable insight into every detail of this British spectacle. After marveling at the precision with which the Queen’s Foot Guards march to Buckingham Palace, clad in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats, follow your guide on a crash course in British royal and democratic history by visiting the most important part of London, Westminster City. Take in classic London sites such as 10 Downing Street, Whitehall, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben and hear about its construction and how the modern work will safeguard the 167-year-old tower. In Parliament Square, you will see the statues of Winston Churchill, as well as other prominent members of parliament and lawmakers. Hear their stories and learn why they have been honored with a statue in this prominent location. Finish your tour outside the iconic Westminster Abbey, one of the world’s great churches, and for 1000 years has been the site of royal coronations. This incredible 700-year-old building is a must-see for any visitor to London and a significant structure in British history. It has welcomed Kings, Queens, and statesmen, royal weddings, and state funerals. See the Jewel Tower and hear about the old Palace of Westminster, where Guy Fawkes and his co-conspirators tried to blow up Parliament, and how he saw his end in the Old Palace Yard. What’s more, see the statue of the leader of the British Suffragette movement, Emmeline Pankhurst, and hear about how one determined woman spent the night to be counted as living inside the building. Languages English Important information Please note that the Changing of the Guard ceremony is subject to changes in date, time, and cancellation at the discretion of British authorities. Cancellation due to bad weather is not announced before the morning of the ceremony. Even when canceled, customers will still see a ‘wet change’ during which the guards march but without the usual music and parade. Please note that the changing of the guard schedule may change and on different dates we will see either footguards or horse guards. If you book on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday, enjoy the Household Cavalry change the guard at Horse Guards Parade.