Horse Guards Parade
A trip to London isn't complete without seeing the Horse Guards Parade
The Horse Guards Building is a large Palladian style building located on Whitehall Street at the east edge of Saint James's Park. It was completed in 1753, replacing the Guard House of the Whitehall Palace after its destruction by a fire in 1698. The building is currently headquarters to London District and Household Cavalry Army commands.
In addition to the interesting architecture, you will enjoy viewing and photographing the guards. The Horse Guards is guarded by both mounted and foot troopers from the Household Cavalry. There are 2 mounted troopers on post daily between 10am and 4pm. These troopers are relieved every hour. In addition two unmounted troopers posted from 10 am until 8 pm get relieved every 2 hours.
If you arrive just before 11am (10am on Sundays) you can view the popular changing of the guard. There is also an inspection of the the guard everyday at 4pm. This was started over 130 years ago when Queen Victoria came through the gate and found no guards. Upon investigating, she discovered they where intoxicated with ale. She then ordered that the Household Cavalry must parade every day at 4 pm for 100 years, to ensure it would not happen again. While the 100 years has long passed the tradition continues.
Kids and adults will all enjoy watching the guards. It is amazing to watch how still they stand at their posts, seemingly oblivious to everyone around them. This is one of the many things you can do in London for free - great when travelling on a budget.
There are many other attractions within easy walking distance of the Horse Guards Parade. Some of these include Saint James's Park, Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Westminster Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. These attractions can be nicely combined into a memorable one or two day walking tour.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoHorse Guards Parade Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Address: Whitehall, London SW1A 2ET, UK
Horse Guards Parade Reviews
Rated out of 5
Trooping of the colour, major generals review, great experience, recommended.
Interestingly the acceptable dress for the occasion is not enforced, flip flops, shorts, baseball caps, casual wear all allowed. The vast majority however came appropriately dressed.
weary feladunder - a month ago
The changing of the guard ceremony was a beautiful experience. The museum is good too, it was really interesting and the people working there were very friendly and polite, and were happy to tell us everything about the exhibition.
The only problem was, that it was very crowded during the changing of the guard.
Angéla Herbert - a week ago
Here's a polished version of your note:
"Unfortunately, I missed the parade as it takes place every Sunday at 10:30 AM and I had a flight to catch. Maybe next time I'll be able to catch it!"
- "Worth planning for if you're a fan!"
- "Hope to see it next time I'm in London!"
Ameer Subhi - 3 weeks ago
We visited Horse Guards Parade last summer and it was an unforgettable experience! 🇬🇧🐎
Located in the heart of Whitehall, this historic site has been the headquarters of the Household Division since the 18th century and remains an important part of British ceremonial tradition. The grand parade ground, where the Trooping the Colour takes place every year for the King’s Birthday, is steeped in history and well worth a visit.
The guards outside in their striking red tunics and bearskin hats are an iconic sight, standing perfectly still despite the bustling crowds. The real highlight, of course, is the magnificent horses of the Household Cavalry. Watching the guards on horseback is a fascinating glimpse into Britain’s military heritage, but please remember not to touch the horses! They are working animals and must not be disturbed.
Whether you’re interested in history, pageantry, or simply taking in a classic London landmark, Horse Guards Parade is a fantastic stop. Highly recommend for visitors of all ages! 🎩🐎✨
I. Morgan - 5 months ago
We made a special effort to arrive at 4 pm for the changing of the horse guards and we expected a parade with the horses walking a special way and with the guards dressed with the special hats. Instead of this there were 2 horses and a few gards (it was nice to see men and women) that made a short and simple ceromonie in a small courtyard. Not something to come especially to see...
גלית סיטון זערור - a week ago
Directions
| Tube Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Circle, District and Jubilee Line | Westminster | 7 Minutes |
| Northern and Bakerloo Line | Charing Cross | 7 MInutes |
How to get to Horse Guards Parade by Tube
From Charing Cross Station exit to Trafalger Square and exit the roundabout onto The Mall and then go south (left) on Horse Guards Road.
From Westminster Station take Exit 6 and go left out of the underpass, then go right on Great George Street and right onto Horse Guards Road.
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Accommodations near Horse Guards Parade:
Photo Gallery
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Photo Credit: string_bass_dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: string_bass_dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: David Guyler - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Peter O'Connor aka anemoneprojectors - cc license via Flickr
