‌

A guide to Windsor Castle's Changing the Guard ceremony

The Windsor Castle Changing the Guard ceremony, also known as Guard Mounting, is one of the most magnificent displays of British pageantry, held against the ancient backdrop of the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Steeped in history and military tradition, this event marks the official handover of duties from the Old Guard to the New Guard, who assume responsibility for protecting the official residence of the British monarch.

Why witness the Windsor Castle Changing the Guard ceremony?

Guards in red uniforms and bearskin hats in formation at Windsor Castle.
Windsor Castle with guards in red uniforms during a ceremonial event.
Guards in red uniforms marching with instruments in front of Windsor Castle.
Soldiers in traditional uniforms marching during the changing of the guard at Windsor Castle, England.
Guard in red uniform at Windsor Castle entrance, England.
Guards in red uniforms and bearskin hats at Windsor Castle.
1/6

A glimpse of living history

Witness a centuries-old tradition, with the Household Division regiments having protected the Sovereign and Royal Palaces since 1660.

Military might and precision

The ceremony is a flawless display of military coordination, showcasing the elite soldiers of the Household Division who, despite their ceremonial role, are first and foremost highly trained infantry. Expect to see flawless movements during the ritual of the 'Present Arms' (saluting with their rifles) as the old and new guards exchange compliments.

Iconic uniforms

You'll see the soldiers of the Household Division (such as the Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish, and Welsh Guards), instantly recognisable in their distinct scarlet tunics and towering bearskin hats. These are not actors, but highly trained infantry soldiers.

Pomp, pageantry, and music

The Windsor Castle Changing the Guard ceremony is often accompanied by a Regimental Band or Corps of Drums, which provides a stirring musical backdrop. They play a wide range of music, from traditional marches to popular songs, adding to the grandeur of the event.

The Handover of the Keys

The symbolic touching of hands as the Captains of the Guard exchange the Castle keys is a key ceremonial moment you will see.

See the royal connection

The ceremony is a tangible demonstration of the formal relationship between the Armed Forces and the Monarchy. By watching the Windsor Castle Changing the Guard, you are observing the ongoing commitment of the soldiers to guard The King's residence.

Changing the Guard: Windsor Castle vs. Buckingham Palace

While the ceremonies share the same traditions, uniforms, and military precision, choosing between them depends entirely on the experience you seek.

Location and setting

Windsor Castle: Takes place within the grounds of the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. The backdrop of the Castle is unmatched.
Buckingham Palace: Takes place on the forecourt of the Sovereign's official London residence, providing a classic, world-famous London experience.

Crowd size and viewing

Windsor Castle: The ceremony is generally less crowded than in London, offering a more up-close and personal view.
Buckingham Palace: Crowds are often immense, especially in peak season. You must arrive very early (up to 1-2 hours) to secure a good viewing spot outside the Palace railings.

Ticket requirement

Windsor Castle: To see the full handover ceremony inside the Castle's Lower Ward (or Quadrangle), you must purchase a ticket to enter Windsor Castle.
Buckingham Palace: The entire ceremony on the forecourt is visible from the public footpaths and railings outside the Palace, making it free.

Schedule

Windsor Castle: Typically held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 11am. This schedule may change seasonally, so always confirm.
Buckingham Palace: Typically held on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 11am. This is the most common schedule, but it must always be checked.

Parade route

Windsor Castle: The new Guard marches a relatively short distance from Victoria Barracks, up the High Street, and into the Castle. The street procession is brief but easily viewable.
Buckingham Palace: The Old and New Guards march along The Mall from St James's Palace and Wellington Barracks, respectively, creating a longer parade route with multiple viewing points outside the Palace.

Final takeaway

Windsor Castle: The Windsor Castle Changing the Guard is the better choice for those who value a less-crowded view of the ceremony in a historic setting, and who plan to tour the Castle anyway.
Buckingham Palace: Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace is the best choice for those who want to witness the world's most famous version of the ceremony at the centre of London, and who prefer a free, grand-scale spectacle.

​More about Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Windsor Castle Changing the Guard highlights

Guard in red uniform at Windsor Castle entrance, England.

What to expect

The ceremony is a detailed two-part spectacle: a public march through Windsor and a formal military handover inside the Castle grounds. The ceremony begins with the Windsor Castle Guard forming up outside the Guard Room to await the arrival of the New Guard.

Guards in red uniforms marching with instruments in front of Windsor Castle.
Windsor Castle exterior with stone towers and lush green gardens.
Soldiers in traditional uniforms marching during the changing of the guard at Windsor Castle, England.
Guards in red uniforms and bearskin hats at Windsor Castle.

Important details

  • When to go: The Windsor Castle Changing the Guard typically takes place at 11am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
  • Check the schedule: Note that the schedule is set by the British Army and can vary by season, weather, and operational needs. It is essential to check the official British Army schedule immediately before your visit to confirm the day and time.
  • Where it happens: Most commonly, the Guard Mount occurs in the Lower Ward of the Castle. However, if the Monarch is in official residence, the ceremony moves to the Quadrangle (the inner courtyard near the State Apartments), offering a unique viewing perspective.

Origins of Changing the Guard at Windsor Castle

The practice of Changing the Guard can be traced back to medieval times when monarchs were heavily reliant on personal bodyguards for protection. This function solidified during the Tudor period, with King Henry VII making the Royal Body Guard a permanent, standing institution. The official responsibility for guarding the Sovereign was established with the formation of the Household Troops (now known as the Household Division) upon the restoration of King Charles II in 1660. Under the Stuart and Hanoverian dynasties, the ceremony at royal residences became more elaborate. Music, precise drills, and military displays were introduced, and specific regiments were assigned the honour of guarding the monarch.

Cultural significance

The iconic full-dress uniform—the scarlet tunics and bearskin hats—is instantly recognisable worldwide. This unique attire, combined with the precision drill and martial music, ensures the ceremony remains one of the greatest spectacles of British pageantry. For visitors, witnessing the Windsor Castle Changing the Guard is an opportunity to experience a piece of Britain's cultural heritage that has largely resisted change, offering a window into the ceremonial duties that have been performed for hundreds of years.

Know before you go

windsor castle changing of the guard

Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays: 11am

  • 10:45am: The New Guards leave Victoria Barracks, march up Sheet Street and High Street, and enter the Castle through the Henry VIII Gateway.
  • 11am: The Changing the Guard Ceremony then takes place inside Windsor Castle.
  • 11:25am: The Old Guards step off for the march back to the barracks.

Address: Windsor SL4 1NJ, United Kingdom | Find on Maps

  • By train: GWR, South Western Railway
    Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Riverside Station
  • By bus: Greenline bus 702
    Nearest stop: Parish Church (Stop J)
  • By car: M3, M4, M25 or M40
    Nearest parking: Windsor Home Park
windsor castle changing of the guard
  • Don't touch, impede, or try getting too close to the Guards.
  • Ticket holders are recommended to arrive at Windsor Castle no later than 10am to allow sufficient time to get through the airport-style security checks before the ceremony starts.
  • Pets are not permitted inside Windsor Castle. If you're watching from the streets, ensure your pet is leashed and doesn't disrupt the ceremony.​
Aerial view of Windsor Castle surrounded by lush green landscape in England.

On the Parade Route

The Guard Mount marches up Sheet Street, wheeling left into the High Street, past the Parish Church and the Guildhall, then turning right onto Castle Hill by Queen Victoria's Statue and up Castle Hill into Windsor Castle. The best places to see them are on Windsor High Street or on the Corn Exchange under Windsor Guildhall.

Inside Windsor Castle 

Standing by the railings, just below St George's Chapel, will give you a good view of the ceremony. When the monarch is in residence, the ceremony takes place in the Upper Ward, on the lawn of the Quadrangle. Standing next to St George's Gate, inside the Castle, will let you see the Guards and Band march right past you, close enough to touch. From the railings at Engine Court, you can see the entire ceremony with The King's Private Residence providing a spectacular backdrop.

From time to time, other areas, including the Moat Path, are opened to let visitors watch the ceremony. The friendly uniformed Wardens will guide you to these when available.

Frequently Asked Questions about Windsor Castle’s Changing the Guard ceremony

Observing the guards as they march through the streets of Windsor is free. However, to witness the full ceremony inside the castle, you need to purchase an admission ticket.​