Where to watch changing of the guard

The Changing the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace follows a traditional format that is the basis for guard changing ceremonies which take place at other Palaces and Royal Residences.

The Old Guard (the soldiers currently on duty) form up in front of the palace and are relieved by the New Guard which arrives from Wellington Barracks.

The New Guard is accompanied by a Band. The ceremony represents a formal handover of responsibilities.

The Guard at Buckingham Palace is typically provided by one of the five Foot Guards Regiments of the Household Division, identified by the number of buttons on their distinctive tunics and the plume in their bearskin caps.

You will notice that soldiers of both the Old Guard and New Guard carry regimental flags.

Known as Colours, these traditionally served as regimental emblems which provided rallying points in battle. Today, they carry regimental distinctions or battle honours emblazoned on them.

Please check the schedule tab for accurate dates of upcoming guard changes at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.

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