Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I see The Changing the Guard?

When the guard change does take place it starts at 11.30am. For exact days firstly check the schedule on this site, if the answer is not there send us an email.

Where can I buy the guide book in London?

The guide book is available for sale at The Britain & London Visitors Centre at 1 Regent Street, just a few minutes walk from Buckingham Palace up The Mall

I heard that the ceremony is held on alternate days, is this true?

Yes, it is true from August to about April the guard change is held every other day, from April to July it is held daily, check the schedule for further details.

When should I get there?

The activity around the Palace itself starts at 10.45am, however particularly in summer some visitors will arrive as early as 9.30am to get a 'good' position. If you arrive early you can always walk over to either St James' Palace where the 'old guard' parade or to Wellington Barracks where the 'new guard' parade.

Make sure you have purchased your copy of the guide book to the ceremony, it will make good reading while you are waiting, if you have not been able to purchase one in advance they are available from The Royal Collection shop close to Buckingham Palace Mews.

What are the nearest underground and Tube stations?

The two most common are Victoria Station and Green Park, however you can also reach it from St James'

Can I see the Guard Change on a guided tour?

Yes, you can, some of the guided tours will arrange to include this in their programme, but coaches are not allowed near to the Palace so you will have to walk a little way.

I am bringing a girlguiding group to see the ceremony is it true that special arrangements can be made for our group to see the guard change?

Yes, this is correct, arrangements can be made through the Girlguiding Trading Service in Cheshire, you can contact them on 0161 941 2237 or email changingtheguard@girlguiding.org.uk

You can also order copies of the book at a reduced price, please contact ukoffice@changing-the-guard.com for further details.

What is the history and origin of Changing the Guard?

Firstly check out the History section on this site, if you want further information you can
purchase the guide book Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace or send us an email.

What are the hats called and how much do they weigh?

The Guards hats are called Bearskins and they weigh 665 grams, some are over 100 years old and passed down in the family.

Where is the best place to stand and get great pictures?

There are many good places to stand, and at the fence in front of Buckingham Palace is not always the best location, towards Wellington Barracks is great for photos; there are lots more good hints in the guide book Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

Where can I buy the guide book?

On line from this web site, from Amazon.co.uk or from several shops around Buckingham Palace, but if you buy from the shops go a little earlier to get the best from the Guide book.
Click here for further information.

What else is there to see?

There are many other attractions in the area in reasonably easy walking distance from Buckingham Palace including:

• The Queens Gallery (2 minutes)
• The Guards Museum (5 minutes)
• Hard Rock Cafe (10 minutes)
• Cabinet War Museum (12 minutes)
• Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament (12 minutes)
• Horse Guards and the Mounted Guards (15 minutes)
• 10 Downing Street (Prime Ministers residence) (15 minutes)
• Trafalgar Square (20 minutes)
• Please note timings are approximate