While walking down Whitehall, my mom and I realized, "Ooooo, they're going to change the Horse Guards. Let's go!" I'm glad we did. They let you in the gates and all the tourists gather round to check out the proceedings. We were there in April, so it may be a bit more crowded in summer. You may not be able to get in if you come late. We kind of shuffled our way to a good spot. Out come the guards with their boots up their thighs and then out come the horses. It's very neat to hear the commands of the officer and to see the men being inspected by their superiors. We are able to hear the officer say, "Your boots are not shined enough." That's how close we were. I know it's all flash, but I really enjoyed it, and it's free! Plus, it's not nearly as long as the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Another plus is just being up so close. You can't beat that. Lastly, the uniforms are so over-the-top. I'd love to see the men running in these thigh high boots. They're not quite stripper boots, but I did get that image.

Horse Guards building was constructed in the 18th century and once was the headquarters of the British Army.

Here we had a chance to watch the Horse Guard Ceremony. The Horse Guards change daily at 11:00 (10:00 on Sunday); there is also dismounting ceremony daily at 16:00 and small ceremony every hour sharp.

This was once Henry VIII's tournament ground.
The changing of the guard takes place every day here.
The buildings completed in 1755, were designed by William Kent.
We thought it was interesting just to see the horses and I think the kids really like this.