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Don't miss the Changing the Guard parade during your visit to London. Credit: Shutterstock. Image courtesy of Shutterstock.

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See guards dressed in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats during the Changing of the Guard. Credit: Shutterstock. Image courtesy of Shutterstock.

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Absorb the pomp and pageantry of Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Image courtesy of Shutterstock.

Changing the Guard Free

Name: Changing the Guard London
Start: 20100101T000000
End: 20281231T235959

Buckingham Palace

Recurring Event

Address: Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Gate

SW1A 1AA
Telephone:: +44 (0)20 3123 7321
Email: [email protected]

About

See the New Guard exchange duty with the Old Guard in the famous Changing the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace.

This prestigious tradition offers a glimpse of royal pageantry in action, with the Foot Guards marching in their red tunics and bearskin hats, accompanied by a military band.

What is Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace?

Changing the Guard is a formal ceremony in which the soldiers who protect Buckingham Palace are replaced by a new group of guards. The event has been part of British history for centuries, with the first ceremony dating back to the reign of King Henry VII. Originally, it took place at the Palace of Whitehall.

The unit responsible for guarding the official residence of the monarch is known as the King's Guard. It consists of active-duty soldiers from the Foot Guards of the Household Division. The guards wear distinctive red tunics and bearskin hats, widely recognised as symbols of British ceremonial heritage.

What time is Changing of the Guard in London?

Guards in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats form a line in front of Buckingham Palace holding a Union Jack flag

Changing the Guard, also known as Guard Mounting, typically takes place outside Buckingham Palace on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The schedule can change depending on weather conditions and operational requirements.

The Buckingham Palace Old Guard usually forms in the palace's forecourt from 10.30am and is joined by the St James's Palace Old Guard at about 10.45am.

The New Guard then arrives from Wellington Barracks and formally takes over the duties of the Old Guard in a ceremonial handover accompanied by music – a mix of traditional military marches, iconic musical tunes, and occasionally chart-toppers. The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes, with the actual handover taking place at 11am.

This free London event is very popular, so it's best to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.

Do I need to buy tickets for London's Changing the Guard?

The Changing the Guard ceremony in London is free to attend.

Book ahead to combine Changing the Guard with London's most celebrated landmarks on a Royal walking tour, or pair it with a visit to Buckingham Palace during its summer opening.

Does Changing the Guard in London take place every day?

Changing the Guard typically takes place in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace Forecourt every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Before you visit, check the ceremony schedule on the Household Division's website for confirmed Changing the Guard times, as it may be cancelled when other large events are happening in central London.

Changing the Guard also takes place at Windsor Castle every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 11am.

The Changing of the King's Life Guard usually takes place on daily at Horse Guards Parade at 11am (10am on Sundays). Check the Household Division's website for the full schedule of ceremonies.

Where is the best place to watch Changing the Guard in London?

The Buckingham Palace gates and the steps of the Victoria Memorial directly opposite are two of the best spots to watch Changing the Guard.

Alternatively, arrive early and secure a spot on The Mall, between Marlborough Road and Buckingham Palace, for a front-row view of the guards marching past.

See inside Buckingham Palace

Book tickets for Buckingham Palace’s summer opening (10 July to 28 September) to step inside the official residence of King Charles III. The self-guided tour explores 19 lavishly decorated State Rooms, the Throne Room (which often serves as the backdrop to Royal photographs), the Grand Staircase and the glorious garden.

What else is there to do around Buckingham Palace?

Just around the corner from Buckingham Palace lies the historic area of St James's.

Discover this charming spot by browsing high-end fashion boutiques tucked away in storied alleyways and arcades, and treat your tastebuds at stylish restaurants. Make a day of it by exploring St James's famous attractions such as the Admiralty Arch and Clarence House.

Opening Times

The ceremony usually starts at 10.45am, but be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.

Visit the Household Division website for the full schedule of dates and timings.

Location