If you’re headed to Windsor, you’ll want to watch the Changing of the Guard. Visitors from across the globe come to witness this spectacle steeped in history and pageantry. Let’s dive into how to make the most of your experience, from the dates and times to the best vantage points and the local tips.
What to Expect at the Changing of the Guard:
The Changing of the Guard is a meticulously choreographed ceremony with bands representing the various British military regiments, all impressive but some grander than others. The Irish and Scottish guards, as examples, are the most elaborate. The Irish guards even bring an Irish Wolf Hound to lead the parade. Visitors can expect to witness a seamless transition of duties between the Old Guard and the New Guard, as they exchange responsibilities for safeguarding the castle. Click here if you’d like to learn more about the ceremony’s history.
Dates and Times:
The Changing of the Guard takes place most Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays except in the case of special events or unforeseen circumstances like adverse weather conditions. It is advisable to check the official schedule for the day of your visit. Also note, that if you plan on seeing the changing of the guard on a Tuesday, the castle will be closed.
10:45 Guards begin at Victoria Barracks on Sheet Street and march through the town’s high street toward the castle. No ticket is required to view.
11:00 The Guards enter the castle through Henry VIII gate and change guards at the courtyard near St. George’s Chapel. Note: Viewing this part of the ceremony requires a ticket to the castle.
11:25 Old guards leave the castle and return to the barracks on same route.
11:35 Old guards arrive back at the barracks.
Local tips:
If you are driving, plan to arrive by at least 10:00 as roads are closed in both directions during the guard change and traffic backs up in all directions.
If you miss the guards going to the castle, wait it out and watch them as they leave. The pageantry is the same.
Weather:
The British weather adds an unpredictable element to any outdoor event, and the Changing of the Guard is no exception. Visitors should be prepared for the possibility of rain or shine, and unless the conditions are treacherous, the “show goes on”. In the event of light rain, the band will play, and the guards will march. If it’s moderately rainy (enough to damage the musical instruments), the guards march solo, but if the rain is extreme, a truck transports the guards.
Best Areas to Watch the Changing of the Guard:
The area surrounding Windsor Castle offers several excellent vantage points to watch the Changing of the Guard, each providing a unique perspective on the spectacle.
If you have a ticket to the castle timed from 11:00 to 11:30, you can watch from just outside the ticket gates. As soon as the guards enter the castle, you can enter before others rush in. If security lines aren’t too long, and you hustle to St. George’s Chapel, you’ll see the part of the ceremony when the change takes place.
If your priority is to see this part of the ceremony inside the castle, enter early and position yourself outside St. George’s Chapel.
For those not entering the castle, or with a ticket entrance time later in the day, optimal vantage points are at the corner of Peascod Street and Windsor High Street near the Victoria Statue, or on the portico of the Windsor Guild Hall. If you have children, many of the local day cares and families watch from the street across from the Barracks.
Local tip:
If it’s cold and miserable, the Shambles Bar serves coffee, cocoa and pastries, and an upstairs table by the window gives the best view from inside.
Guard change route:
The Changing of the Guard procession follows a designated route through the streets surrounding Windsor Castle, providing ample opportunities for spectators to catch a glimpse of the spectacle. The route typically begins at the Victoria Barracks, where the Old Guard forms up before marching towards the castle.
From there, the procession proceeds along Sheet Street and passes through the town center, offering spectators a close-up view of the Guards as they march in precision formation. The procession then continues along High Street, before turning onto Park Street and returning to the castle via Castle Hill. You can watch the changing of the guard from either side of the street all along the procession route.
Witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle is a quintessential British experience that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage and tradition of the monarchy. From the precision drills of the Guards to the stirring strains of military music, the ceremony captivates audiences with its grandeur and spectacle. By planning and choosing the optimal vantage point, visitors can ensure a memorable experience that will leave a lasting impression for years to come.