Changing of the Guard
Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London, England, SW1 1AA
The Changing of the Guard is a centuries-old tradition that marks the official shift change of the Household Regiment, or the King’s Guards. One of the world’s most famous ceremonies—and a top London experience—this recurring event gives visitors the chance to witness the grandeur of a royal march up close. Dressed in their iconic red suits and bearskin hats, the guards perfectly exemplify British pomp.
The basics
The Guard Mounting ceremony features not only the Queen’s Guard but also the Household Cavalry. It begins with the New Guard marching from Wellington Barracks to Buckingham Palace with a marching band, while the mounted Horse Guards Parade leaves from the Hyde Park barracks and crosses The Mall to St. James's Palace. The official guard change then takes place in the palace forecourt. Some London walking tours include a timed stop at the palace to see the event, while other tours combine a viewing with a visit to the Tower of London or a whirl on the London Eye.
Things to know before you go
Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 11:30am and lasts about 45 minutes.
Crowds are frequent, especially at the palace, but you'll find quieter spots elsewhere along the route.
The ceremony is free to watch, and no tickets are required.
How to get there
To reach the Changing of the Guard, take the London Underground to St. James’s Park (District or Circle Line) or Green Park (Piccadilly, Jubilee, or Victoria Line). Take the London bus to stops like The Mall or Victoria Station. You can also walk from Trafalgar Square or Westminster Abbey. The procession begins at Wellington Barracks and continues to Buckingham Palace in central London.
When to get there
To get a good view, it's best to arrive early—as early as 9:30am for a good view in the summer months. Some tours are timed specifically for the ceremony, guaranteeing the best viewpoints and insight from an expert tour guide. Note that the ceremony may be canceled in bad weather.
Things to do near Buckingham Palace
Travelers can pair the show with stops at Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Windsor Castle or even with afternoon tea, a classic London experience. The nearby Tower of London also has an entertaining guards tour that complements Buckingham's Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Ways to explore
The Changing of the Guard ceremony is best associated with Buckingham Palace but occurs at two other London landmarks: St. James’s Palace and the Wellington Barracks. Buckingham Palace remains the most popular (and crowded) viewing location, and it’s worth getting there earlier in the morning to stake out a spot before the ceremony (typically Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, though the schedule does change). Alternatively, get a better view at other points along the route. Some London walking tours include a timed stop at the palace to see the event and share more of its history.
Accessibility
Paved footpaths along the route are generally level and accessible, but crowding could make wheelchair access difficult.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Camera, foldable umbrella
What to wear
Comfortable shoes, weatherproof layers
Not allowed
Standing in the way of the guards, disruptive behavior
Amenities
Nearby free restrooms, nearby dining options
Address
The Changing of the Guard ceremony is held at three locations in Westminster, Central London: Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Palace, and the Wellington Barracks. Use public transit to get there, and then head to the viewing area on foot.
Driving
You can view the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at several points in Central London, but finding nearby parking can be challenging. If you must drive, several paid parking garages are available in Westminster.
Public transportation
Depending on where you view the ceremony, take Circle, District, or Victoria Tube lines to Victoria station; Circle or District line trains to St. James’s Park; Victoria or Jubilee line trains to Green Park; or Circle, District, or Victoria line trains to Westminster.
Best times to visit
The Changing of the Guard ceremony typically begins at 11am, though crowds form at 10am or earlier. Aim for a good-weather day—the event is sometimes canceled at the last minute due to inclement weather.
Best days to visit
The main days for the Changing of the Guard ceremony are typically Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, though smaller-scale ceremonies are often held on Sundays. Note that the schedule can change.
Best months to visit
Summer promises the best London weather, though it’s also when high-season crowds descend. Aim for the late-spring or early-autumn shoulder seasons.
Special events
For an even grander version of the Changing of the Guard, attend Trooping the Colour, a parade held in honor of the sovereign’s birthday in June.
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