Ultimate Guide to The Changing of the Guard

Changing of the Guard

 

The guards at Buckingham Palace are called ‘The Queen’s Guard’. They are made up of 5 Regiments from The Household Division’s Foot Guards: The Grenadiers Guards, The Coldstream Guards, The Scots, The Irish and The Welsh. The Guards wear the iconic bearskin hats and red tunics, and grey overcoats in winter. Other regiments can guard the palace from time to time so don’t be alarmed if you see them dressed differently!

The changing of the guard happens at 11am daily in summer and alternate days in winter. At 10:30am the New Guard forms up at Wellington Barracks and the band plays a selection of music. The New Guard then arrives at Buckingham Palace at 11am, with the band playing, and takes over the Old Guard’s duties. The Old Guard then leaves Buckingham Palace for Wellington Barracks at 11:40am.

The Horse Guards form up on Horse Guard’s Parade at 11am Monday-Saturday and 10am on Sunday. The Queen’s Life Guard is provided by men of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment which is made up of The Life Guards, who wear red, and The Blues and Royals, who wear blue. Just as spectacular, with less crowds and you can get closer to the action!

 

Footguards: 11am Daily May-July, Alternate Days in Winter. (Check the website for more details). Horseguards: 11am Monday-Saturday, 10am Sunday.

 

 

 

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