I will be going to London in about 10 day. I really want to see the changing of the Guard, but ow should I prepare to see the changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace? What time do I need to what up and what is the fastest way to get there? What's the best spot to see the changing of the Guard? If I'm at Buckinham Palace should I tour the State rooms? Is it worth my time if I only have 5 days in London?
Posted by
London, UK
180 posts
Buckingham Palace is open from 27 July -29 September and you are well advised to have your tickets in advance. As far as the changing of the guard - personally I would give it a miss. Google changing of the guard and it will give you the dates and times. Be prepared - it lasts for a couple of hours.
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
If you are going to Windsor, you can watch a Changing of the Guard there. Much smaller crowds and much easier to see. Check their website for days and times.
Posted by
Temora, NSW, Australia
337 posts
just a comment that changing of the guard at windsor may not happen if there is a likelyhood of rain.
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
Horse Guards? Uncrowded and you can get right up there. Late morning, but I forget the exact time.
Posted by
Spokane, WA
470 posts
For a different approach and if you are there on a Thursday, check out London Walks (walks.com) and take their ROYAL LONDON & THE CHANGING OF THE GUARD at 10:30 am. It's been several years since I took it, but I believe you also get to see the Horse Guards. Anyway, it is great information and fun as all their walks are.
Posted by
Land of La
8660 posts
In answer to your question. I'd get there a minimum of an hour earlier to get a spot in front. Believe it's 11:30am daily but that information might be old. Check the time online. Biggest crowds are near the front gates and Victoria Memorial. The Guard comes from Wellington Barracks near Birdcage Walk and marches over to the Palace. Easiest transport is via the tube to either Westminster, St James Park or Green Park Stations and walking to the Palace. Fastest transport, a costly black cab. Can't comment on the staterooms. Haven't been. A lot of London can be seen in 5 days if you plan accordingly. After witnessing the ceremony you could see the Churchill State Rooms, then Westminster Abbey. From there a stroll up Whitehall to have a pub meal and pint at the Red Lion. Back out the door to see the Horse Guards and #10 Downing Street and then continuing walking walk up to Trafalgar Square to visit the National Gallery. GREAT city. Have fun.
Posted by
Twin Cities, Minnesota
1823 posts
Because I hate crowds I have never been to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. However, I have been to the Changing of the Guard at the Horse Guards a couple times and really enjoyed it.
Posted by
Brentwood, Tennessee, United States
17 posts
Our kids wanted to see it, so we took them. We didn't have a very good view, but jostled around and managed to see some of it - I agree - get there around an hour early for the best spot. It's really touristy, but one of those things it's good to see once in your life! I found this site that has times and dates: http://www.changing-the-guard.com/dates-times.html
Posted by
Boscombe, Dorset, UK
964 posts
I did the Buckingham Palace tour a few years ago and really enjoyed it. But if you only have 5 days, I think you need to decide what your priorities are; there's a lot of London!