Approaching History: A Guide to The Guards Museum in London

When it comes to unmissable ceremonial events in London, the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace certainly has a name. Accompanied by solemn music, the guards in their red uniforms and bearskin hats perform the handover, creating a magnificent and dignified scene. In fact, just 500 meters from the White House and the ceremony, there is another must-visit attraction—The Guards Museum. Let's go explore it with The London Pass.

Opened to the public in 1988, The Guards Museum tells the story of the five regiments of Foot Guards from 1660 to the present day, through a wealth of information and artifacts related to their past and present. It is the best place to learn about the historical and modern roles of the Guards and the Household Cavalry, who are entrusted with the honor and duty of protecting the monarch and the royal palaces.

The British Foot Guards consist of five regiments. Together with two regiments of the Household Cavalry, they form the Household Division, responsible for protecting the Queen and the royal palaces. The current Foot Guards are the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards, Scots Guards, Irish Guards, and Welsh Guards. You can distinguish them by three main features: the spacing of their buttons, the plume on their bearskin hats, and the insignia on their collars, shoulder boards, and belt buckles.

When visiting Buckingham Palace, you will surely notice the traditional soldiers standing guard outside. Dressed in bright red tunics and iconic bearskin headgear, they come from these five regiments.

The Guards Museum holds a large collection of archival photographs and videos of the regiments. Additionally, you can see how the uniforms and equipment of the guards have changed over time, and learn about the longstanding connection between the British royal family and the military.

Image source: The Guards Museum

Museum address: Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk, London SW1

Opening hours: Monday, Friday to Sunday 10:00 – 16:00

Ticket: £8, free with The London Pass