Changing of the Guard

Royal ritual at Buckingham Palace

Address:

Wellington Barracks - (Buckingham Palace)
SW1A 1AA - Westminster/St James
London

Nearest Bus or Train:

Green Park

Open Hours:

Apr-Oct: 11:30am daily; Nov-Mar: 11:30am Mon, Wed, Fri

The changing of the guard is common in most European capitals, but nowhere is it more famous than in London. The new guard leaves Wellington Barracks a few minutes before the change and marches down Birdcage Walk to Buckingham Palace. The actual ceremony (which lasts around 40 minutes) takes place within the gates of the palace, so get there early to secure a good vantage spot. In addition, the St. James's Palace detachment of the Queen's guard marches to Buckingham Palace at 11:15am and back to St. James's at 12:10pm. Free admission.

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