Changing the Guard at Windsor Castle
About
The Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle is a genuine working military ceremony, not a re-enactment. The New Guard, usually the Household Division, marches in from Victoria Barracks to relieve the Old Guard inside the Castle Precincts, led by a regimental band, corps of drums or occasionally a pipe band, and the ceremony lasts around 45 minutes. It takes place inside the Castle grounds, so you need a Castle ticket to watch it. The schedule changes by season and can be suspended for weather or state events, so check the Household Division's live calendar for your date.
Photos
Highlights
- ✓A genuine handover of the King's Guard, with a military band
- ✓One of the few places to see it outside London
- ✓Inside the historic Castle Precincts
- ✓Around 45 minutes of ceremony
Tips
- →You need a Windsor Castle ticket to watch, as it happens inside the grounds.
- →Days vary by season and it can be cancelled for weather or state events; check the Household Division schedule for your date.
- →It runs most days in spring and early summer, dropping to three days a week from August.
Best Season
More Experience Activities
French Brothers Thames Boat Trips
Scheduled Thames cruises from Windsor, from a 40-minute round trip to two-hour and themed cruises. The easy way to see the Castle from the water.
Ascot Racecourse
The famous racecourse six miles from Windsor through the Great Park, home of Royal Ascot in June and racing year-round. A special-occasion day out.