Changing the guard London: a must-do activity in 2025!

In this article, I present the changing of the guard in LondonA unique and unforgettable experience when you visit the capital!

Here you'll find

• A presentation of this traditional ceremony
• How to attend
• Practical information: prices, opening hours, reservations
• Things to see and do in the area
• And much more!

If you're looking for information on the changing of the guard in London, you'll love this article.

Follow the guide!

For those of you in a hurry: if you would like to attend the changing of the guard in London, this Ticket allows you to book at the best rates!
-> Click here to book this experience at the best price

Changing of the guard in London: article summary

Changing the guard in London: soldiers, flags and brass bands in front of the Royal Palace

Among the experiments the most popular for those who come visit LondonAnd then there's attending the changing of the guard. An official, traditional ceremony not to be missed!

What is the changing of the guard in London?

The changing of the guard in London is the moment when the soldiers who ensure the security of the Buckingham Palace are replaced by those who take the next shift.

The process is meticulous, every movement is rehearsed to perfection and we witness a real choreography carried by the sound of the brass band accompanying the ceremony.

You'll see the King's Guardcomposed of infantry soldiers from the Household Divisionwith their world-famous outfits: red jackets, black pants and the famous headgear that gives them their distinctive style!

Facts and figures about the ceremony  

• The changing of the guard in London usually lasts 45 minutes
• It runs from 10:45 a.m. every 2/3 days. But it can be cancelled!
• We speak of Old Guard for the soldiers who will be replaced and New Guard for new
• If the changing of the guard draws crowds in front of Buckhingham Palace, you can see the soldiers marching along Wellington Baracks before arriving at the Palais / on the Saint James's Palace where some of the troops head after the ceremony

How to attend the changing of the guard in London?

If, like millions of spectators every year, you want to watch the Changing of the Guard in London, here's what you need to know.

The changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace

First of all, plan to come as early as possible. There's a huge turnout every time, and the best seats are quickly snapped up. From 9 /9.30 a.m.The first spectators flocked to the roads in front of which the soldiers would parade, and to the palace gates.

Secondly, the ceremony is free of charge if you just want to watch the soldiers and the brass band go by.

However, you can reserve a privileged experience which includes the changing the guard with commentary, explanations and anecdotes from a specialist guide.

Why is this the best way to attend the Changing of the Guard ceremony? You'll have a place of choice and you'll understand what's going on. So enjoy 100 %!

 

Changing of the guard at Windsor Castle 

The most famous changing of the guard in the world is of course the one in front of Buckingham Palace, but it's not the only one you can attend.

In fact, if you're going to visit the sublime Windsor CastleYou can also watch the soldiers swap places. It's less crowded and usually takes place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 11am.

How do I get to the changing of the guard in London?

For a good view of the ceremony, stand in front of the gates of Buckingham Royal Palace, or on the steps of the Victoria Memorial. Address : Buckingham Palace Road, SW1A 1AA London

Getting there is easy, with the following means of transport:

Changing the Guard in London: prices, timetables and practical information

Here's what you need to know to enjoy London's Changing of the Guard ceremony stress-free.

Rates and booking

• Free
• Panoramic tour + guided changing of the guard :  from 18 years: 23.38€ / between 5 and 17 years: 19.87€ /free for children 4 and under

If you opt for this privileged tour, online booking is mandatory. You can select the date of your visit and receive your tickets instantly on your mobile devices.

 

Opening hours

Shift changeover takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays (between August and May) and every day from June to July.

The official ceremony time is 11hThe event kicks off at 10:30 a.m. at the Saint James Palace.

Practical information and advice

Although the fanfare changes regularly, the ceremony sometimes takes place without music. It's not as exciting, just so you know!

You can consult the official schedule (dates and times) for the changeover. here and see if music is on the agenda!

What to see and do in the area?

There's plenty to do in this part of London! Here are a few ideas for exploring the capital after attending this official ceremony:

• Visit Westminster Abbeyless than 1 km away, for its superb architecture and rich interior.
• Admire Big Benthe world's most famous bell tower, a 16-minute walk towards the Thames, at the top of Elizabeth Tower.
• Stroll through the vast Hyde Park !

 

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