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Changing the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace

Ever seen soldiers in bright red tunics and towering bearskin hats as the Old Guard hand over duties to the New Guard in a perfectly choreographed tradition, complete with a military band? That's the Changing the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace! This historic 45-min ceremony dates back to King Charles II—pure British pageantry!

​Plan your visit

What is the Changing the Guard ceremony?

Changing of the Guards ceremony at Buckingham Palace

Origin of the ceremony

Did you know the Changing the Guard goes back over 520 years? It started with Henry VII, who created the Royal Body Guard as a permanent institution. Then, in 1656, King Charles II formed the first Guards Regiments to protect him during his exile. Fast forward a few centuries, and these soldiers are now some of the oldest and most battle-hardened in the British Army. The ceremony itself starts at Whitehall, stops by St James's Palace, and ends at Buckingham Palace.

About Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace guards marching in formation towards the palace in London.

How to watch the ceremony

Here's the game plan: get there by 10:30am since the good spots fill up fast! The ceremony starts at 11:00am, lasts about 45 mins, and happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Grab a spot near the palace gates or the Victoria Memorial for the best view. You'll see soldiers marching in from St. James's Palace with a full-on band! Don't forget to check the Household Division website for any last-minute changes (thanks to unpredictable British weather).

Why go to the Changing the Guard ceremony?

  • Celebrate British traditions: The Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace features the ceremonial exchange between the Old Guard and the New Guard. This event, accentuated by musical accompaniment, showcases the rich pageantry of the United Kingdom.
  • See the guard's bright ceremonial outfits: The guards, adorned in their traditional red tunics and bearskin hats, embody a quintessential symbol of British heritage and culture.
  • It's free to watch: The Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace is free of charge, thus offering tourists and locals an affordable glimpse into a storied British tradition without cost.

The Changing the Guard ceremony highlights

Changing of the Guard Buckingham Palace

Military march

The military march is like watching perfection in motion! Picture this: guards in spotless uniforms marching in sync so precise it's almost hypnotic, with the steady beat of drums setting the pace. Add a military band to the mix, and you've got a mesmerizing spectacle that's pure British tradition.

Buckingham Palace Guard Ceremony Military band

Military band

What's a royal ceremony without some epic music? The Household Division's State Ceremonial Musicians—seven Regimental Bands and even a string orchestra—bring the whole ceremony to life. They mix classic military marches with modern tunes. And if you're lucky, you might even catch regimental pipers or the Corps of Drums in action.

Buckingham Palace Guard Military outfit

Military outfit

The guards at the ceremony are hard to miss in their bold red tunics and towering bearskin hats (not real bearskin!)—so classic, so British. Known as The King's Guard, they're from the Household Division's Foot Guards, and their uniforms aren't just for show—they're steeped in centuries of royal tradition and history.

Plan your visit to the Changing the Guard ceremony

Changing of the Guard in Buckingham Palace, London, UK

The ceremony, which lasts 45 mins, is held at 11am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at the Buckingham Palace Forecourt.

Address: Buckingham Palace Forecourt, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom | Find on Maps

  • By bus: Bus routes 11, 211, C1, and C10 
    Nearest stops: Buckingham Palace Road or Victoria Coach Station

  • By train: Southern
    Nearest stations: London Victoria or Charing Cross

  • By tube: Victoria
    Nearest stations: Victoria, Green Park, St. James's Park, or Hyde Park Corner

  • For the best views, head to the Buckingham Palace Forecourt for the main action, or try Wellington Barracks and St. James's Palace if you prefer a less crowded experience.
  • If you're arriving early or find it hard to stand for long, bring along a lightweight folding chair to relax comfortably while you wait.
  • After the guard changes, don't rush off—stick around to watch them march back or take some time to explore the nearby attractions!
  • Stay mindful of your belongings—crowded spots can be a magnet for pickpockets!
  • If you're watching from a distance, binoculars are a great way to see the finer details, such as the guards' uniforms and ceremonial movements.
  • Silence your phone during the ceremony to keep things peaceful for everyone, but feel free to snap photos or record videos once it's over!
  • There are no public restrooms near Buckingham Palace, so it's a good idea to use the facilities at nearby cafes or hotels before you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Changing the Guard ceremony

Where is the best place to view the Changing the Guard Ceremony?

Good viewing spots include the fences in front of Buckingham Palace, the steps of the Victoria Memorial, and along The Mall.

Is there a fee to watch the Changing the Guard ceremony?

No, watching the Changing the Guard ceremony is free of charge.

How early should I arrive to get a good spot?

Arriving at least 30-45 mins before the ceremony starts is recommended to secure a good viewing position, as the event is quite popular.

What happens if it rains on the day of the ceremony?

The ceremony may be canceled in the event of terrible weather. Cancellations can be confirmed on the morning of the ceremony via the Household Division's official website.

Can I take photographs during the ceremony?

Yes, photography is allowed during the ceremony, but using large tripods might be restricted due to the crowd.

Are there any security restrictions for attending the ceremony?

As with any public event, you will likely undergo security checks. Large bags and backpacks are typically discouraged.

Is the Changing the Guard ceremony accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, there are accessible viewing areas. To arrange accommodations, you should contact the Palace's visitor services in advance.

Can children watch the ceremony?

Yes, the Changing the Guard is a family-friendly event. However, due to crowds, it's advisable to keep children close.

Can I bring my pet to watch the ceremony?

Pets are generally not recommended at the ceremony due to the large crowds and the nature of the event.

What should I wear to the ceremony?

There is no dress code for watching the ceremony, but it's recommended to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for being outdoors.

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