Changing of the Guard, London Guide: 10 Top Tips (2026)
Thinking of catching the Changing of the Guard while you’re in London? Here’s how to see it properly — timings, where to stand, and what most visitors get wrong — from a London travel blogger!
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If you’re planning to see the Changing of the Guard, a little strategy goes a long way.
It’s one of those London moments that’s easy to do badly (blocked by a wall of phones, no view, too late), but with the right timings and a sensible spot, it’s brilliant.
Without further ado, here’s how to make the most of the Changing of the Guard — from a London travel blogger.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
P.S. – For more trip inspiration, travel videos, and behind-the-scenes adventures, be sure to follow along (and say hello, if you fancy) on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
The Ultimate Changing of the Guards London Guide
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What is the Changing of the Guards?
The Changing of the Guard is exactly what it sounds like — when the King’s Guard swaps shifts at Buckingham Palace.
In short, it’s a ceremonial handover that happens with plenty of marching, music, and royal tradition that’s been going for hundreds of years.
You’ll see the soldiers in their red uniforms and tall black hats (yes, they really do wear those), moving in formation as one group takes over from the other.
Whether you’re into royal history or not, it’s one of those “you’re really in London” moments — and surprisingly fun to watch in person.
When is the Changing of the Guards?
The ceremony usually takes place around late morning, with the official handover at 11am.
In a normal week, it’s held on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, but the schedule can change for state events or bad weather.
Always check the official schedule the morning you go to avoid disappointment — it’s updated regularly and will save you a wasted trip if the ceremony’s cancelled.
P.S. – Because this free London event is very, very popular, you may be glad to know there’s also a Changing of the Guard at the Horse Guards Parade and at Windsor Castle, with far less crowds. And they’re definitely worth checking out!
When to Arrive to the Changing of the Guard
If you want to see the main handover in front of Buckingham Palace, arrive around 10:15am to get a decent spot.
Anything later than 10:30 and you’ll likely be behind a lot of cameras.
If you’re not fussed about being front and centre, you can still catch great views further up The Mall or near St James’s Palace — both spots let you see the guards marching in and out, and the atmosphere’s just as good (without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowd).
How to Get to Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is right in the middle of central London, so you’ve got plenty of ways to get there for the Changing of the Guard.
The closest Tube stations are Green Park (Piccadilly, Victoria and Jubilee lines) and St James’s Park (District and Circle). Victoria and Hyde Park Corner are also nearby.
If you’d rather stay above ground, a few buses stop within walking distance of the palace — 11, 211, C1 and C10 all run nearby, depending on where you’re coming from.
Just tap in and out with your contactless card or Oyster as usual.
If you’re staying in the city centre, it’s easy enough to walk — the palace is well signposted, and you’ll probably spot the crowds before you see the gates. Be sure to use Citymapper to get around!
How to Pick the Best Spot for the Changing of the Guard
There are a few places to watch the Changing of the Guard, but where you stand makes a big difference. Here’s what to know before you pick your spot.
📍Victoria Memorial (in front of Buckingham Palace)
This is the classic viewing point right in front of the palace gates. You’ll be closest to the action here, but it also fills up first — expect to arrive around 10:15am if you want a clear view.
Once you’re in place, you won’t move much, so bring water (and patience).
📍 The Mall
If you don’t need a front-row photo, The Mall is a great option. It’s the long, tree-lined road leading up to the palace, and it gives you a brilliant view of the guards marching to and from St James’s Palace. You’ll have more space to move around, and it’s usually less crowded than the gates.
📍 Friary Court, St James’s Palace
This is the one most visitors don’t realise exists — and it’s my favourite. The guards gather and form up here before marching to the palace, so you’ll see them up close before the ceremony begins.
It’s a short walk from Green Park or St James’s Park, and you can easily follow the crowd along The Mall afterwards to see the rest of the handover from a different angle.
Pro tip: If you’re near St James’s Palace, stand close to the gates by the small souvenir shop — that’s where the guards march out from on their way to the palace.
Follow the Guard to Buckingham Palace!
If you start at St James’s Palace, it’s easy to walk alongside the route as the guards head towards Buckingham Palace.
It only takes a couple of minutes, and you’ll get a nice mix of close-up views and atmosphere along The Mall.
Just stay to the pavements and follow the direction of the crowd!
How to Stay Safe at the Changing of the Guard
Like any busy London event, it’s worth being mindful. Keep your bag zipped, watch your belongings, and avoid holding bulky umbrellas or selfie sticks.
There’s limited space around the palace gates, and phone signal can be patchy, so plan your route ahead of time — especially if you’re meeting someone afterwards!
But Wait…Don’t Leave Immediately After
Once the main handover finishes, most people rush off straight away — but if you stay a few extra minutes, you can see the Old Guard march back out through the left-hand gate (facing the palace) towards Wellington Barracks.
It’s a quieter moment with fewer people and a nice way to wrap up your visit.
Take Extra Precautions For Summer
If you’re going in the summer months, it gets warm and crowded fast. Bring a reusable water bottle, wear sunscreen, and plan to arrive earlier than you think — around 9:45–10:00am is safest for a good spot.
There’s a café inside St James’s Park if you want to grab coffee before the ceremony starts. Hats and sunglasses don’t go amiss either — it’s London, but the sun does show up sometimes.
Stick Around Buckingham Palace!
And finally, don’t rush off once it’s over — there’s plenty to see nearby!
St James’s Park is lovely for a walk and a bit of calm after the crowds. Grab a takeaway coffee, sit by the lake, and watch the ducks (and slightly cheeky squirrels) for a bit.
The Queen’s Gallery is just around the corner and has rotating exhibitions from the Royal Collection if you want to keep the royal theme going.
And if you’re interested in military history, both The Household Cavalry Museum and The Guards Museum are close by, offering more insight into the traditions you’ll have just seen in action!
Changing of the Guards London FAQs
💭 Do you need tickets for Changing of the Guard in London?
Nope!
💭 Is it free to watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace?
It’s completely free to watch.
💭 Can you speak to the Royal Guard/ ask them for directions?
Not while they’re on duty. They won’t respond, and it’s best to be respectful and give them space. Just use Citymapper instead.
💭 Can you take pictures with the guards at Buckingham Palace?
You can absolutely take photos near the guards, as long as you stay on the public side of the barriers. Just remember they’re on duty — not posing for pictures — so keep a respectful distance and never touch or block them. A quick photo from a few steps back is completely fine.
💭 What are the real duties of a Royal Guard at Buckingham Palace or the Tower of London?
The guards at Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London are real soldiers, not actors!
Their main role is to protect royal residences, but their presence has also become a long-standing ceremonial tradition.
The discipline you see during the Changing of the Guard is part of their official duty — so not just for show.
Thanks for reading my Changing of the Guard London Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
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Happy Londoning,
