It was by pure accident that we have learned about the schedule of Changing The Guard that day. (It was December 3rd.) We saw a bunch of people running across Green Park towards the gate near Buckingham Palace. Hundreds of eager spectators swarmed across the palace gates to witness this particular scenario.

The Changing the Guard ceremony is probably one of the oldest and best attractions London has to offer. It normally starts at 11am during weekdays and 10am on Sundays. Schedule also varies during summer and winter and state/parliamentary occasions.

This colorful army tradition dates back to the late 14th century, during the reign of Henry VII. They were known then as Household Troops who guard the Sovereign (the reigning British king or queen). The Household Division is composed of seven regiments: two Mounted Regiments known as The Life Guards and The Blues and Royals and five Regiments of Foot Guards – the Grenadier Guards, the Coldstream Guards, the Scots Guards, the Irish Guards and the Welsh Guards.

More than just ceremonial guards, they are also highly-skilled professional soldiers who are on active military service to the British crown and have engaged in many of the world’s fiercest battles.