Changing the Guard – also known as Guard Mounting
The Changing of the Guard is a famous ceremony outside Buckingham Palace in London. But who are these soldiers, and what do they do?
There are five different regiments of soldiers serving as the Queen's Guard. The Queen's Guard is responsible for guarding the official royal residences in London, including St James' Palace and the Tower of London.
The Changing of the Guard is a popular event with tourists visiting London. It takes place every day at 11:30 a.m. from April to July and on alternate days for the rest of the year, weather permitting. The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes. During this time, one regiment hands over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace and its grounds to another regiment.
The guards wear red tunics and tall black bearskin hats. They also carry rifles, but these rifles have no ammunition. The soldiers are trained to use them only in emergencies. Although they are not supposed to move or speak, they are allowed to march up and down.
It can be a difficult job. The soldiers have to stand still for long periods of time, even when it's very hot or very cold. They also have to deal with people trying to make them laugh or distract them. Some tourists have been known to touch the guards or even take selfies with them. This is not a good idea, as it can be dangerous. If a guard is touched or distracted, he will shout 'Make way for the Queen's Guard!' to warn people to move away.
If you visit London, you should definitely go and see the Changing of the Guard. But remember, the guards are working, so don't try to talk to them or take photos too close to their faces. And if you hear someone shouting, make sure you get out of the way!
It can be a difficult job. The soldiers have to stand still for long periods of time, even when it's very hot or very cold. They also have to deal with people trying to make them laugh or distract them. Some tourists have been known to touch the guards or even take selfies with them. This is not a good idea, as it can be dangerous. If a guard is touched or distracted, he will shout 'Make way for the Queen's Guard!' to warn people to move away.
If you visit London, you should definitely go and see the Changing of the Guard. But remember, the guards are working, so don't try to talk to them or take photos too close to their faces. And if you hear someone shouting, make sure you get out of the way!
