Click Here For The Changing of the Guard Schedule
Click Here For The Changing of the Guard Schedule
Changing of the Guard London
The Changing of the Guard in London is one of Britain's most iconic and enduring military traditions. The Changing of the Guard ceremony dates back to the reign of King Henry VII, who established the Royal Body Guard as a permanent institution — making the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace one of the longest-running and most historically significant traditions in the world. Today, it remains a living piece of British history, performed by active-duty soldiers from the Foot Guards of the Household Division, instantly recognisable in their scarlet tunics and tall bearskin hats — symbols of British ceremonial heritage known across the globe.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a formal military handover in which the soldiers currently protecting the King's official London residences are relieved by a fresh detachment. The King's Guard is divided into two detachments: one at Buckingham Palace and one at St James's Palace. When it is time to change guard, the soldiers on duty form up in front of the Palace and are relieved by the New Guard, which marches from Wellington Barracks along Birdcage Walk, accompanied by a Regimental Band or Corps of Drums. A separate but equally spectacular guard change takes place at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall, where the mounted troopers of the Household Cavalry — known as the King's Life Guard — perform the Household Cavalry Changing of the Guard daily at 11am Monday to Saturday and 10am on Sundays.
The Buckingham Palace Guard change takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 11am (Sunday at 10am) and is free to watch from the public areas outside the Palace. If you are searching for what time is the Changing of the Guard, where to watch the Changing of the Guard in London, or simply want to know what days does the Changing of the Guard take place — you are in the right place. Whether you are visiting London for the first time or are a lifelong admirer of British royal ceremonies and London tourist attractions, the Changing of the Guard London is an unmissable experience — a rare moment where centuries of history, military precision, and royal pageantry come together on the streets of the capital. Want the best views of the Changing of the Guard London at Buckingham Palace? Check out this award-winning Changing of the Guard Tour!
Frequently Asked Questions
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The official Changing of the Guard in London ceremony at Buckingham Palace takes place at 11:00 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and at 10:00 AM on Sundays.
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For the best view of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, skip the crowded gates. Expert guides recommend the elevated steps of the Victoria Memorial for a panoramic view of the London ceremony, or The Mall and Wellington Barracks to see the marching bands and King's Guard up close. Click Here for more information.
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No, you do not need a ticket. Watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony in London at Buckingham Palace is completely free of charge. No booking or tickets are required to view this iconic British tradition from public areas unless you wish to book a guided tour. Simply check the schedule and arrive early to secure the best viewing spots.
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Yes, the Changing of the Guard ceremony in London at Buckingham Palace can be modified or cancelled during heavy rain. In wet weather, the Captain of the Guard may declare a "Wet Mount," meaning the British Army soldiers march in overcoats without a ceremonial band.
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The best Changing of the Guard tour in London is this award-winning walking tour by See The Sights Tours. As London’s leading local authorities on royal traditions and led by experienced local guides, this tour guarantees prime viewing spots to witness the Buckingham Palace guard change ceremony. Experience the Household Cavalry, iconic King’s Guard, and regimental music on this definitive British military pageantry experience.