Coronations, guard changes, and the stories between

Destination
London, UK
Duration
3 hours
Tour size
Max 20
Language
English
Westminster Abbey has hosted every coronation since 1066. This Westminster Abbey tour puts you front and center for the Changing of the Guard, then takes you inside the Abbey with a Blue Badge guide.
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Your guide meets you beneath the statues of Churchill and Mandela in Parliament Square, with Big Ben rising directly overhead. This single stretch of pavement sits between the Houses of Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Abbey, and your guide will tell you why that matters before you take a single step.
You'll walk to The Mall to watch the guards prepare for their march from St. James's Palace. Your guide will explain what you're seeing as it happens: these are serving soldiers carrying out a genuine duty, and every detail of the uniform, from the bearskin to the tunic buttons, marks their regiment and rank. You'll march alongside them to Buckingham Palace, then your guide positions you for the clearest possible view of the full ceremony. Please note: The Changing of the Guard does not take place every day and can be canceled at short notice due to weather or royal obligations. On days when the ceremony is not scheduled, you'll see the King's Life Guard Change at Horse Guards Parade instead. Your guide adapts the route accordingly.
"Everyone heads for the Coronation Chair. But Elizabeth I's tomb, just feet from her sister Mary's, that's the moment the Abbey comes alive."
Katie,
WalksDevour Blue Badge London guide
"I've watched the Guard Change hundreds of times. I still listen for the horses rounding the corner. You hear them before you see them."
James,
WalksDevour Blue Badge London guide

Our guides love answering your questions. Here are some things they’d like you to know before you arrive.




