The Changing of the Guard – A Not-to-Miss London Spectacle

Buckingham Palace Changing of the Guard. Image from Flickr

A visit to London is not complete without witnessing one of the most anticipated spectacles – the Changing of the Guards. It is a delight to witness soldiers wearing bearskin hats and red tunics perform in military precision to the tune of a stirring music.

Troops from the Household Division have been guarding the sovereign at St. James’s Palace since King Charle II ascended to the throne in 1660, however, it was only when Queen Victoria succeeded in 1837 that the ceremonial changing of the guard started.

The Guard is divided into two detachments of soldiers, all on active duty. One detachment continues to guard St. James’s Palace, which is the official seat of the British court. The other detachment guards Buckingham Palace.

The ceremony indicates that the two detachments of the “Old” Guard meet in the forecourt of the palace and are relieved by a “New” Guard. The captain of the Old Guard turns over the key to the palace in a symbolic transfer of responsibility for the sovereign’s security.  The ceremony lasts for about 45 minutes between 10.15-11.45am on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from January to March, when the weather is fair. If you want to catch the Changing of the Guard, here are important details that you can check out.