Small Group: Complete Westminster Abbey Tour with Royal Changing of the Guard
Royal ceremony and British history take center stage on this small group experience combining the Changing of the Guard with a guided visit to Westminster Abbey. Designed to avoid the largest crowds, the tour offers close-up views and deeper insight into two of London’s most enduring traditions.
The experience begins in Parliament Square, framed by Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, where the guide introduces Britain’s monarchy and ceremonial heritage. From there, the walk continues toward The Mall to observe the Changing of the Guard. Participants follow the soldiers from St. James’s Palace, learning about their daily responsibilities, the symbolism behind their uniforms, and the significance of this time-honored ritual. The route also includes views of Horse Guards, featuring mounted soldiers in full ceremonial dress.
The tour concludes inside Westminster Abbey with skip-the-line entry and a fully guided exploration. Highlights include the Coronation Chair, royal tombs, and key areas tied to coronations and royal weddings spanning more than 1,000 years.
Duration:
Approximately 3 hours.
Start Time:
9am
Inclusions:
Certified Blue Badge guide, Expertly guided walking tour, Skip-the-queue access to Westminster Abbey
.
Exclusions:
Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off, Gratuities.
Meeting point:
Viscount Palmerston Statue, Parliament Sq, London SW1P 3JX, UK.
Ending point:
Parliament Square, London, GB.
Not Suitable For:
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
Important Information:
All guests must pass through security.
Sites on this tour are subject to occasional closures. If modifications are needed and time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
Please Note: The 'Changing of the Guard' can be cancelled last minute due to bad weather, and does not take place every day. On days this ceremony does not take place, guests will see the King's Life Guard Change, Horse Guards Parade. Access to the panoramic viewpoint may be limited due to local events.
Photography is not permitted inside Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament.
Please note that for security reasons bag searches will take place at Westminster Abbe.
We recommend you bring a water bottle. You'll be able to fill your bottle on tour.
Group size: Maximum 20 participants.
This tour operates daily, except Sunday from April to October.
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