Why do the King’s Guard wear red tunics?

There is much conjecture that the red (scarlet) tunics hides blood when a soldier was injured on the battlefield. However, the actual reason is that red dye was widely available and affordable when the decision to wear the same colour was made in the 17th century.

If you’d like to unearth the colour, mystery and
magnificence of this great city, join one of our Walking Tours!
London Icons