Changing the Guard

The Changing of the Guard is one of the highlights of a visit to Windsor.

A band usually accompanies the Guards, although this is subject to weather conditions.

The Guards can be watched as they march up the High Street and into the Castle, but to see the actual ‘changing’ ceremony you need to have paid to go into the Castle.

The Ceremony takes place outside the Guardroom in the Lower Ward of the Castle, except during Easter Court.

To watch the Guards march up the High Street takes only 10 minutes; to watch the actual ceremony inside the Castle takes about 30 minutes.

Changing the Guard at Windsor Castle from Royal Collection Trust.

Guard March Schedule

The Guard March takes place all year round, dependant on the weather, but never on a Sunday. 

September 2017:  guard mounting will take place, weather permitting, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
October 2017: guard mounting will take place, weather permitting, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
November 2017: guard mounting will take place, weather permitting, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
December 2017: guard mounting will take place, weather permitting, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 22 December then on 27, 29 and 31 December.

The schedule is set by the British Army and is subject to change.  Please check the Royal Collection's website for latest information and for a link to the British Army website.

When to watch the Guard March

The New Guard step off from Victoria Barracks on Sheet Street at approximately 10:45am and march through the Town Centre.

The Changing the Guard Ceremony then takes place in the Lower Ward inside Windsor Castle at 11:00am. The sentries are changed throughout the day.

The old Guards then march back to the barracks at about 11:25am.

Local traffic

Please note that traffic is stopped when the guards make their way between the barracks on Sheet Street, along the High Street and into the Castle.

Traffic Wardens and Police control traffic on the following approaches to the centre of town: Thames Street, the junction of Victoria Street and Sheet Street and near the junction of Frances Road and Sheet Street.

Traffic is usually stopped between 10:45am and 11:00am (as the guards march to the Castle) and between 11:15am and 11:30am (as they return to the Barracks).

You can also find out more information about Changing the Guard from the Household Division's website.