Changing of the Guard in London: Where to see it and when

As one of London’s most famous landmarks, Buckingham Palace attracts around half a million visitors annually. And while the chances of spotting the Royal Family are slim, visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard outside the Palace gates every week.

This is a long-standing ceremony like no other — get ready for columns of King’s Guard soldiers, decked out in their red tunics and bearskin hats, marching in time to create one of London’s most captivating spectacles.

What is the Changing of the Guard?

The Changing of the Guard in London marks the moment the soldiers protecting Buckingham Palace hand over responsibilities to a new group of guards. However, this is no ordinary shift change.

Marching in time with ceremonial bands, both the Old Guard and New Guard carry ceremonial weapons, such as rifles and swords, and regimental flags (known as “colours”). Their dress is also iconic — red tunics and high furry hats.

The entire ceremony lasts approximately 45 minutes, beginning at 10:45 AM on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace, with the handover at 11:00 AM.

What’s the history behind the Changing of the Guard?

Guards have protected London’s royal palaces since the 17th century. The ceremony itself began in 1689 at Whitehall Palace — which back then was the British monarch’s official residence — and later moved to St James’s Place. In 1837, Queen Victoria moved into Buckingham Palace, and what was then called the Queen’s Guard followed. The ceremony has been on public display at the Palace ever since.

When is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace?

The Changing of the Guard occurs four days a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday), though the schedule is subject to change depending on factors like state events and the weather. The Palace Old Guard arrives in formation on the Palace forecourt at 10:30 AM, and the official ceremony begins at 10:45 AM.

Tickets aren’t required to watch the Changing of the Guard — it’s one of London’s top free things to do. You can view the proceedings from the opposite side of the Palace gates. Arrive before the official start time to get your spot, though, as crowds can be massive — sometimes thousands of people per day visit the Palace.

What you shouldn’t miss during the Changing of the Guard?

1. Pay attention to the ceremonial details

There are many highlights to the ceremony you won’t want to miss. Watch as the Captain of the Guard gives orders and exchanges salutes with the regiment. Notice the well-choreographed display of precision marches and drills — all of it accompanied by the regimental band, who perform everything from military and classical music to pop hits.

2. Skip the crowds at St James’s Palace

St James’s Palace, the most senior royal residence in London, is located just a few meters from Buckingham Palace. The two are linked via The Mall (a short but grand tree-lined road), and it’s along this route that the New Guard marches to Buckingham.

First, though, a detachment forms at St. James’s Friary Court at 10:30 AM when they are inspected by the King’s Guard. Though a smaller ceremony, it’s a key part of the proceedings and a good place to spot royal guards without the crowds.

3. Admire the view from the Victoria Memorial

Most days during the ceremony, crowds are jockeying to find the best vantage points. For the best views of the action, head to the Victoria Memorial in front of the Palace. Its base and the stone tiers at its foundation offer a raised platform allowing you to look out over the entire ceremony.

4. Watch the start at Wellington Barracks

Five minutes from Buckingham Palace, Wellington Barracks is the actual starting point of the Changing of the Guard, as it’s where the New Guard begins their walk to Buckingham Palace. Just like at the Palace, you can watch the guards through the front gates as they rehearse drill movements accompanied by a regimental band or drum corps.