The Ceremony Explained: Every Detail Revealed

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The Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace is a traditional event that also takes place at other Royal Residences. The ceremony involves a formal handover of responsibilities, where the Old Guard, soldiers currently on duty, are relieved by the New Guard, which arrives from Wellington Barracks with a Band.

The Guards are typically from one of the five Foot Guards Regiments of the Household Division, identifiable by the number of buttons on their tunics and the plume in their bearskin caps. Both the Old and New Guards carry regimental flags, known as Colours, that historically served as rallying points in battle and now display battle honors.

For the latest schedule of guard changes at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, please refer to the schedule tab.

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How to Watch

The Changing of the King’s Guard takes place in front of Buckingham Palace at 10:45 am and lasts about 45 minutes. Arrive early for the best view. Soldiers gather at St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks from 10:00 am and march to Buckingham Palace with music. Check the 'schedule' tab for updates, as the ceremony can be cancelled at short notice, especially in wet weather, sometimes at the last minute.

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Origins of Changing the Guards

Since the reign of Henry VII, elite soldiers have guarded the monarch. The first Guards regiment was formed in 1656 to protect King Charles II. These highly-trained officers and soldiers are among the oldest in the British Army, serving with distinction in major conflicts since the 17th century. The ceremony initially took place at the Palace of Whitehall and later at St James’s Palace. After Queen Victoria moved into Buckingham Palace in 1837, the main ceremony shifted there.

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The Ceremony in Detail

At 10:30 am, the Old Guard forms in Friary Court, St James’s Palace, and is inspected before marching to Buckingham Palace with a Band. Meanwhile, another Old Guard detachment forms in the palace forecourt. By 10:43 am, both detachments unite as the Old Guard and await the New Guard from Wellington Barracks, which forms in Birdcage Walk, and enters the forecourt by 11:00 am.

The two guards salute each other, and the Captain of the Old Guard hands over the palace key, symbolically transferring security responsibility. Officers salute the Senior Captain, while ensigns with the Colours patrol the forecourt. The Band plays, and special orders are distributed by a Lance Corporal. After the ceremony, the Old Guard returns to Wellington Barracks.

When the King is in residence, indicated by the Royal Standard flying, sentries may increase. The New Guard takes over duties at Buckingham Palace, with part of it stationed at St James’s Palace.

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The Bands and Music

The Bands of the Household Division have a prestigious history, performing for the Changing of the Guard and other state and national events. Featuring musicians from British Army Music, including those from the Grenadiers, Coldstream, Scots, Irish, and Welsh Guards, among others, they deliver stirring performances.

The Bands, sometimes joined by Corps of Drums, play traditional and popular music. A notable moment in 1920 involved a piece from an operetta prompting a message from King George V to never play it again. Typically, a full Military Band from the Guards Regiments provides music during the handover, performing marches, show tunes, and pop songs.

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Troop Movements

10:43 AM: Old Guard departs St James’s Palace.
10:57 AM: New Guard leaves Wellington Barracks.
11:10 AM: St James’s Palace relief leaves Buckingham Palace.
11:25 AM: Remaining St James’s Palace contingent departs.
11:40 AM: Old Guard exits Buckingham Palace.
11:45 AM: Final St James’s Palace Guard leaves.

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For all interested in British heritage and ceremonial traditions, the Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life and history.