When you think of London, one of the first things that comes to mind is the guard change, the ceremonial ritual where soldiers from the British Army relieve their peers at royal palaces and key government buildings. Also known as changing of the guard, it’s a centuries-old tradition that blends military precision with pageantry—and it’s free to watch. This isn’t just a tourist show. It’s a living piece of British history, carried out by regiments with deep roots in the monarchy’s defense.
The most famous Buckingham Palace guard change, the daily ceremony outside the Queen’s official London residence happens at 11:00 AM most days from April to July, and every other day the rest of the year. But don’t assume it’s daily year-round—weather, state events, or troop deployments can cancel it. The Horse Guards Parade, the historic site where the Sovereign’s Bodyguard and Household Cavalry perform their daily routine is a quieter, equally impressive alternative, with changes at 11:00 AM daily. Both involve marching bands, red tunics, and bearskin hats—exactly what you picture when you think of London.
What most visitors don’t realize is that the schedule changes based on season, royal events, and even the day of the week. For example, on Sundays, the ceremony at Buckingham Palace often includes a larger band and more guards. If you’re trying to get a good view, show up at least 45 minutes early. The fence along the palace courtyard fills up fast. The best spots? The front gates, the Victoria Memorial, or across the street near the shops on Birdcage Walk. Skip the guided tours that charge £20 to show you where to stand—you can find the same spot for free.
You’ll also see guards at St. James’s Palace, the Tower of London, and Windsor Castle—but those schedules vary. The Tower’s guard change is smaller and happens only on weekends. Windsor’s is more frequent in summer, but check the Royal Collection Trust website before you go. No one updates the old tourist apps reliably. The official Royal Family website is the only source that’s always accurate.
Why does this still matter? Because it’s not just about the hats or the drums. It’s about continuity. These soldiers are real members of the British Army, trained for combat, who spend months preparing for this role. They stand still for hours in rain or sun. They don’t smile, but they’re not robots. Many locals come just to say hello, or to take a quiet moment in the middle of a busy city. The guard change is a pause button in London’s rush.
Below, you’ll find real posts from locals and visitors who’ve watched the guard change—some at sunrise, some in the rain, some with kids who cried when the band played. You’ll learn how to time your visit so you’re not stuck in a crowd, where to grab coffee before the ceremony, and which nearby spots offer the best photo angles without the tourist crush. Whether you’re planning your first trip or you’ve been to London ten times, this collection has something you haven’t seen before.
Learn the exact times, best viewing spots, and insider tips for watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Avoid crowds, know when it's canceled, and understand the tradition behind the ceremony.