When and Where to Watch the Changing of the Guards in London
Not many traditions capture the glamour of British history quite like the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Scarlet red tunics, towering bearskin hats, military bands and that iconic, perfectly synchronised marching - this royal spectacle is an unforgettable London experience. And with
Imperial London Hotels founded in 1837, the very same year Queen Victoria took the throne, we’ve been just around the corner ever since, living through centuries of royal tradition. Imperial London Hotels puts you just a few stops away from Buckingham Palace, making it the perfect base for
families and visitors wanting to catch the royal action up close.
When is the Changing of the Guard?
The Changing of the Guard takes place regularly throughout the year, though the schedule changes slightly with the seasons.
High Season Changing of the Guard Schedule (April - July/August)
During peak months (April through July), the ceremony happens most days of the week:
Changing of the Guard Times by Month:
April - July: Daily at 11:00 am (Monday - Sunday)
Sunday Parade:
10:45 am: Band departs Wellington Barracks
11:00 am: Ceremony begins at Buckingham Palace
11:25 am: Guards march back to Wellington Barracks
Off Peak Changing of the Guard Schedule (August - March)
From August to March, the ceremony happens less frequently but still offers plenty of chances to watch.
Days: Alternate days - usually Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Time: 11:00am (but always check closer to your visit as the schedule can change)
Household Cavalry ride along The Mall beneath Union Jack flags, on black horses with an officer on a white horse.
How often is the Changing of the Guard?
The ceremony typically takes place 3-4 times a week depending on the season.
Trooping the Colour
Trooping the Colour is a larger, more ceremonial version of Changing of the Guard, held in June to celebrate the monarch’s official birthday. It includes a longer route, larger troops and an even bigger musical display.
Did you know? On State Visits days, the regular schedule might change - so it’s always worth checking before setting off.
Special Occasions
Another spot for Guard Mounting (Changing of the Guard) is Horse Guards Parade near Whitehall, where the Household Divisions Cavalry (on horseback) take over duties instead.
Summer: Daily at 11:00am
Winter: Alternate days
Two King’s Guards in grey winter coats patrol Buckingham Palace forecourt during the off-peak Changing of the Guard.
What is Changing of the Guard?
Also known as Guard Mounting, this tradition sees the New Guard replace the Old Guard to protect
Buckingham Palace and St James’s Palace, and is a long standing tradition of royal pageantry.
The King’s Guards, from the Household Division of the British Army, are instantly recognised by their bright red tunics, bearskin hats and regimental band music.
Is the Changing of the Guard everyday?
Not quite - daily during the peak
summer season and on alternate days during the winter months.
Where to Watch the Changing of the Guard
Buckingham Palace Forecourt (best spot):
Best view of the inspection and ceremony
Located right in front of the Palace gates
Nearest tube: Green Park or St.James’s Park
Victoria Memorial / Wellington Barracks (alternate spot):
Slightly less crowded
Great overview of the marching bands and formations
St James’ Park Entrance:
Catch the marching band as they arrive at the Palace
Top tip: Staying at Royal National Hotel puts you just a 15 minute tube ride from Buckingham Palace. We’ve been in Bloomsbury since the Victorian era - you’ll be walking in the footsteps of history! Keep an eye out for any blue plaques or statues documenting the history. Modern double room at Royal National Hotel: king bed, dark green feature wall, bedside lights and a curtained window.
Imperial London Hotels Near Buckingham Palace
Whether you’re bringing the whole family or visiting
solo, there’s room (and a piece of
history) waiting for you. We’ve been welcoming guests through our doors since 1837, so you could say we’ve seen a guard or two come and go.
Royal National Hotel (Bloomsbury):
Just a short tube ride from Green Park, the Royal National is our largest and most family-friendly hotel - ideal for large
groups or school holidays.
City Sleeper Hotel (Euston):
For comfort with a quieter touch,
City Sleeper offers stylish
modern rooms while keeping you connected to central London and Buckingham Palace.
These classic hotels blend comfort with a nod to the past, reflecting our 1837 legacy - a nod to British traditions just like the guards themselves.
Tavistock & Morton Hotel:
Book your stay at Imperial London Hotels to be steps away from this iconic ceremony.
Our Tips for Seeing the Ceremony
Close-up of Household Cavalry trooper’s polished breastplate reflecting Horse Guards Parade during Guard Mounting in London.
How long is the Changing of the Guard?
The ceremony takes about 45-60 minutes broken down like this:
March in: 5 - 10 minutes
Inspection & Band Performance: 20 - 30 minutes
March out: 10 - 15 minutes
Arrival Tips:
Arrive by 10:30 am for a good viewing spot
Weekdays are a bit quieter than weekends
Avoid standing behind lamp posts or railings…not the best spot for photos
Weather & Comfort:
Pack a light raincoat or umbrella (this is London after all)
Wear comfy shoes…those cobbled forecourts aren't the easiest on your feet
Foot Guards in red tunics march past the Victoria Memorial at Buckingham Palace, rifles shouldered, watched by crowds.
Let the kids burn some energy at St James’s Park playground
Take a short stroll to Horse Guards Parade to watch the cavalry
The Changing of the Guards is a classic yet fun British experience, perfect for the whole family. With
Imperial London Hotels as your home base, you’ll be moments away from the action (and centuries of history).
Book now and join a tradition we’ve proudly stood beside since 1837.