Q&A Changing the Guard

Discover everything you need to know about London’s iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony with our Q&A guide. Find answers to the most common questions: What time does it take place? Where is the best place to watch? How long does it last? Learn about the history, traditions, and insider tips to make the most of your visit to this world-famous royal spectacle.

Change of the Guard

How should I watch Changing the Guard?

There are various options. You can either wait at the gates of Buckingham Palace (but get there early!), or choose a spot on the Mall or near the Queen Victoria memorial and wait for guards to march past. But to have a great overview of the ceremony, and stand in all the best spots, its best to join one of our Changing the Guard tours!

How many rooms are there in Buckingham Palace?

There are 775 rooms in Buckingham Palace, including 78 bathrooms, etc etc

How old are the Guards at Buckingham Palace?

The soldiers ages vary, with many being in their late teens and early twenties. The youngest soldiers are 17.

Are the Guards at Buckingham Palace real soldiers?

Yes, they are soldiers who also serve as front line combat units in conflict zones. They provide a ceremonial service for a period, usually at the start of their military careers.

Do the Guards at Buckingham Palace have real guns?

Yes, the weapons they carry are SA80s, the same assault rifles used when serving overseas.

Do the Guards at Buckingham Palace ever smile or laugh?

The King’s Guard are providing the first line of security for the Royal family and Royal Palaces, so it is a role with high responsibility. As such, it is not appropriate to laugh or smile while on duty.

Are the bearskin hats really made from bear fur?

Yes. The hats worn by soldiers are made from Canadian Black Bear fur, while the officers wear Canadian Brown Bear. The British Army have trialled synthetic material but don’t currently consider this to be a practical alternative.

Why are the King’s Guard at Buckingham Palace wearing grey coats?

For six months of the year the guards wear thick grey coats, known as ‘Great Coats’ rather than the scarlet red tunics. This to ensure they stay warm through the winter.

What is Changing the Guard?

Changing the Guard is a historic event in London where soldiers from the King’s Guard Household Division known as the Old Guard are relieved of their by soldiers known as the New Guard. They are joined by musicians as they march between the palaces and barracks where they are stationed.

Where does Changing the Guard take place?

The ceremony occurs in the Royal Quarter of London. Guards will march between three principal locations – St James Palace, Wellington Barracks and Buckingham Palace

How many people attend Changing the Guard in London?

In summer months, tens of thousands of tourists observe the ceremony.

How long does Changing the Guard last?

The whole ceremony takes around 1 hour from start to finish. The Old Guard emerge from St James Palace at around 10.40am, and the New Guard complete the ceremony at around 11.40am.

Does Changing the Guard occur when its raining?

If the rain is heavy, or the forecast is for rain, the British Army may decide to curtail the ceremony. On such occasions, there will be a ‘Wet Change’ where the soldiers wear light overcoats and march without the ceremonial band. They will also protect their regimental flag (the ‘colour’), and guard movements will vary. However, sometimes the full ceremony goes ahead in the rain, and the decision to curtail the ceremony is usually made at the very last minute.

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.

What is the Sunday Parade?

This is a new addition to London’s ceremonial calendar, introduced in April 2025. Much like Changing the Guard, this event involves foot guards, marching, music, and occurs in the same area. The main difference is that the Sunday Parade celebrates the role of the Colour (regimental flag) and involves one regiment of guard rather than the usual two.

When does the Changing the Guard take place?

Changing the Guard occurs three times a week, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Although the section at Buckingham Palace is at 11am, the event begins at St James Palace at around 10.40am. On Sundays there is an event called the Sunday Parade – similar to the Changing the Guard, but with important differences.

How old is the Changing the Guard ceremony?

The ceremony has been modified greatly during the past few centuries, but it can trace its history back to the restoration of the monarchy in 1660 when King Charles II brought his personal bodyguard – known as the Life Guard – with him to London.

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