The Pomp & Pageantry: How to See the Changing of the Guard

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The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a timeless, free spectacle of British military tradition, music, and colour. Watching the Foot Guards in their iconic red tunics and bearskin caps formally hand over duty is a quintessential London experience.

However, the event is massive, attracts huge crowds, and the schedule can be confusing. Here is your essential guide to seeing the ceremony, including the best times and where to stand.

Part 1: Times and Locations

The term “Changing of the Guard” refers to two separate ceremonies in Central London: the Foot Guards at Buckingham Palace and the Mounted Guards at Horse Guards Parade.

1. Changing the King’s Guard (Buckingham Palace)

This is the main, famous ceremony with the band and the bearskin hats.

  • Days (Standard Schedule): Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. (The ceremony often takes place daily during peak summer—always check the official schedule the week before your visit).

  • Official Start Time: 11:00 AM (The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes).

  • The Action: The New Guard (accompanied by a Regimental Band or Corps of Drums) marches from Wellington Barracks to Buckingham Palace to relieve the Old Guard. The formal handover takes place on the forecourt.

  • Other Activities:

    • Captain’s Inspection: On days without the full guard change (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), a less formal inspection takes place at 3:00 PM.

    • Sunday Parade: A special ceremony sometimes takes place on Sundays around 10:00 AM instead of the usual change.

2. Changing the King’s Life Guard (Horse Guards Parade)

This ceremony features the mounted soldiers (Household Cavalry) on horseback, complete with shiny helmets and plumes.

  • Days: Daily at Horse Guards Parade.

  • Start Time: 11:00 AM (10:00 AM on Sundays).

  • The Action: The New Guard of the Household Cavalry rides in to relieve the Old Guard. This ceremony is often smaller, faster, and takes place in a more open space.

  • Dismount Parade: A separate, simple ceremony takes place daily at 4:00 PM where the mounted sentries are dismounted for the day—it’s a small, easy-to-see event.

Part 2: Best Viewing Spots (The Strategic Plan)

You have three main options for viewing, each offering a different atmosphere and level of crowding.

Option 1: The Closest View (Buckingham Palace Forecourt)

  • Location: Directly outside the gates of Buckingham Palace.

  • Pros: You are closest to the action and can clearly see the guards’ precision drills, the band, and the ceremonial handover.

  • Cons: This is the most crowded spot. If you don’t secure the front rail, your view will be entirely blocked by other people and phones.

  • Pro-Tip: Arrive NO LATER than 10:15 AM (and ideally by 9:45 AM during peak summer) to guarantee a spot at the railings.

Option 2: The Elevated Panoramic View (The Victoria Memorial)

  • Location: The large, tiered monument directly opposite the Buckingham Palace gates.

  • Pros: The steps and platform offer a slightly elevated position, allowing you to see over the crowds gathered at the railings. This is the best spot for wide shots that include the palace facade, the forecourt, and the entire square.

  • Cons: The best elevated spots are still limited. You still need to arrive early (by 10:00 AM).

Option 3: The Marching Procession (The Mall / Wellington Barracks)

  • Location: Along The Mall (the road leading from Trafalgar Square to the Palace) or outside Wellington Barracks (Birdcage Walk).

  • Pros: Fewer crowds and a unique perspective. You can get an excellent, clear photo of the Guards and the band marching past without the competition of the masses.

    • At Wellington Barracks (10:30 AM): You can see the New Guard being inspected before they start their march.

  • Cons: You won’t see the formal ceremony or the handover at the Palace gates.

Option 4: Horse Guards Parade (Mounted Guard)

  • Location: Whitehall (near Trafalgar Square).

  • Pros: Fewer crowds than Buckingham Palace and a more intimate ceremony. You get to see the famous Household Cavalry and their horses up close.

  • Cons: It’s a different, shorter ceremony (no bearskin hats or massive band).

Top Tips for a Successful Visit

  • Always Check the Official Schedule: Dates can change at very short notice due to state events or operational duties. Check the official Household Division website the day before you plan to attend.

  • Arrive Early: For the main Palace ceremony, you must treat 10:30 AM as the absolute latest to arrive.

  • Beware of Pickpockets: Where crowds gather, pickpockets operate. Keep your bags zipped, in front of you, and be alert during the ceremony.

  • Bad Weather: Ceremonies can be cancelled or significantly scaled down (no band) in heavy rain or adverse weather conditions, sometimes as late as 10:45 AM.

  • Enjoy the Music: The Regimental Band often plays surprising pop hits alongside traditional military marches.

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