Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace 2026: Plan Your London Stay
Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace is one of the most popular ceremonial events to watch in London. The colourful ceremony combines military tradition, music, and precision marching outside Buckingham Palace.
The ceremony is free to watch, so you do not need a ticket. However, it attracts large crowds. Therefore, it is best to arrive early if you want a good viewing position.
For visitors staying in West London, Mowbray Court Hotel provides a convenient base near Earl’s Court Underground Station. From Earl’s Court, you can travel into Central London and visit Buckingham Palace along with many other famous attractions.
Changing the Guard Schedule in 2026
The Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace does not take place every day.
During September 2026, the normal schedule is Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11:00 AM. However, dates and times can change because of ceremonial duties, operational requirements, weather, road closures, or other events.
Upcoming September 2026 Guard Change dates include:
- Friday, 18 September – 11:00 AM
- Monday, 21 September – 11:00 AM
- Wednesday, 23 September – 11:00 AM
- Monday, 28 September – 11:00 AM
- Wednesday, 30 September – 11:00 AM
On Friday, 25 September, an Admin Mount at 8:00 AM is currently listed instead of the normal 11:00 AM Guard Change.
Because the schedule can change at short notice, always check the current changing the guard schedule before travelling.
Where Does Changing the Guard Take Place?
The main ceremony takes place around Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, and Wellington Barracks.
The ceremony marks the moment when the soldiers currently on duty, known as the Old Guard, are replaced by the New Guard. The guards are accompanied by military music, making the ceremony one of London’s best-known royal traditions.
Spectators normally watch from public areas outside Buckingham Palace. Since the ceremony is popular, arriving well before the official start time can help you find a better viewing position.
What Will You See During the Ceremony?
During Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace, visitors can see soldiers in ceremonial uniforms marching between locations around Buckingham Palace.
The King’s Guard is normally provided by units of the Household Division, although other British and Commonwealth military units may also take part. A military band often accompanies the ceremony and performs traditional marches as well as other music.
The full experience includes marching, military commands, music, and the formal handover between the Old Guard and New Guard.
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Explore Buckingham Palace and Nearby Attractions
A visit to the ceremony can easily be combined with other Central London attractions.
After watching the Guard Change, you can explore Buckingham Palace, St James’s Park, Westminster, Hyde Park, and other famous London sights.
If you are planning several sightseeing days, see more places on our London attractions page.
Mowbray Court also has useful information for visitors planning a trip to Buckingham Palace.
Stay Near Earl’s Court While Exploring London
Earl’s Court is a practical location for visitors who want to explore Central London while staying in a quieter part of the city.
Mowbray Court Hotel is around a six-minute walk from Earl’s Court Underground Station. The District and Piccadilly lines provide useful connections across London, while the Piccadilly line also offers direct access towards Heathrow Airport.
After watching Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace, you can return to Earl’s Court and relax away from some of Central London’s busiest tourist areas.
Before your trip, explore our room options to choose accommodation that suits your stay.
Check Direct Booking Offers
Planning your London sightseeing trip in advance can also help you choose the right room and travel dates.
Before booking, check our latest offers. Mowbray Court currently promotes direct-booking benefits and special offers through its official website.
Your Stay for Changing the Guard in London
Changing the Guard is a memorable way to experience British royal tradition during a London visit.
By staying near Earl’s Court, you can enjoy useful Underground connections to Central London while also having easy access to Kensington, museums, parks, shopping areas, and other attractions.
When your travel dates are confirmed, Book Direct to check current availability and direct booking rates.