The Changing the Guard ceremony, also known as Guard Mounting, signifies the official handover of responsibility from the soldiers on duty at the palace to those soldiers that will be taking over the duty.
The Changing of the Guard generally starts at 11:00 a.m. It is good to arrive at the palace early in order to get a good viewing spot. On the sidewalk between the two Palace entrances (center of the palace) is what seemed to me to be the best spot. No one spot will give a good view of everything because while there will be the soldiers leaving the palace, there will also be soldiers entering the grounds, and then proceeding into the palace itself. It is hard to know in which direction to turn until the soldiers are near. So much is happening simultaneously.
There are a few parts to the ceremony. Soldiers march, soldiers play instruments, and then there are soldiers on horses. The ceremony is very formal. The soldiers look very regal and proper. The ceremony generally takes a half hour. It is definitely a must see when visiting London.
Posted: December 10, 2017
Information, prices and hours posted here are current as of the posted or updated date. It is advisable to call ahead or check online to confirm hours and prices.
Address:
Buckingham Palace
Westminster, London SW1A 1AA, UK
Hours:
11am Buckingham, Palace
Please note that due to security concerns, the schedules are not normally released until the month prior and can change. Please return to this page to look for regular updates
For most of the year, the Guard Change takes place on alternate days, (either odd or even days). Check online for the current schedule.
Price:
Free
Public Transport-Approximate Distance from:
Golder’s Green: 40 minutes
Stamford Hill: 45 minutes
Website: http://www.changing-the-guard.com/
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