London: Westminster Abbey Tour with Guard Change & Big Ben

Skip the line into Westminster Abbey and witness the world-famous Changing of the Guard perform their centuries-old ceremony.

After a brief introduction in Parliament Square, where you'll have a view of Big Ben, you’ll head straight to the Mall to catch the soldiers preparing for the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. While you wait, your expert guide will share what the guards' duties entail and the symbolism behind their eccentric uniforms. You'll march alongside the soldiers and head to a special vantage point near the Wellington Barracks, home to all the Foot Guard’s Bands, that lets you get as close as possible to the action. Afterwards, you'll watch the equally impressive Horse Guard coming up the street, which features mounted, armor-clad soldiers and their immaculately groomed steeds. The tour continues at Westminster Abbey, one of the most famous buildings in the world and considered the most important Gothic building in England. Led by a certified Blue Badge guide, this tour gets you up close and personal with some of the most fascinating events in history. See the Coronation Chair, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the High Altar, where many royal weddings have taken place. You’ll also visit the tombs of some of the most important figures in history, including Charles Darwin, Edward V, and Sir Isaac Newton. For the next 90 minutes, your guide will regale you with the stories of significant historical events that have taken place within these walls, along with details of the decor that can be hard to decipher on your own. 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. Please also note that access to the panoramic viewpoint may be limited due to local events.