About Changing the Guard

A Timeless Royal Tradition in the Heart of London

"The best way to predict the future is to study the past"- Winston Churchill

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Officers and soldiers of the Coldstream Guards march in front of Buckingham Palace during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. - Shutterstock

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In today’s email: 

• About Changing the Guard

• In the Footsteps of Dickens

• Around The Web: Urban Village Fete; A Hidden Gem of History & Curiosities; Visitors guide to Royal Palaces, Castles and Residences in the UK and more.

• From Social Media - The fountain in Trafalgar Square is a popular spot

• Yum Recipes - Three Super Easy Slow Cooked Recipes - Gordon Ramsay

• Extra - Changing of the Guard

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About Changing the Guard

The Changing of the Guard is a famous ceremonial event held at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and St James’s Palace. It takes place at 11am: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for the King’s Guard, and Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at Windsor. The Old Guard is replaced by the New Guard in a formal handover, accompanied by a military band. Troops wear distinctive red tunics and bearskin hats, and carry regimental Colours – flags rich in history. On Sundays, a special parade takes place involving a formal inspection and trooping of the Colour. Arrive early for the best viewing spot; the main ceremony begins at 10:45am. Be aware that the event may be cancelled at short notice, especially in poor weather. Security is present, and visitors are advised to stay alert and look after belongings. This iconic tradition reflects centuries of royal history and pageantry and is a highlight for any visit to London

British Royal guards perform the Changing of the Guard in Buckingham Palace. Queen's Guard change is one of the major tourist attractions in England - Shutterstock

In the Footsteps of Dickens

Between Bloomsbury and the City of London lies Clerkenwell, a neighbourhood steeped in rich history, revolutionary ideas, and timeless stories. Once home to monastic orders, radical thinkers, printers, and reformers, it later became a favourite haunt of Charles Dickens, who knew its streets well. He walked through its alleys, observed its people, and wove its spirit into novels like Oliver Twist, Bleak House, and Little Dorrit.

In Clerkenwell, the past lingers in every corner. You’ll find medieval gatehouses, Victorian pubs, and peaceful squares that once stirred with protest. There's the evocative Bleeding Heart Yard, a location wrapped in legend and literature, and the Charles Dickens Museum just a short stroll away in Bloomsbury, where you can stand in the very study where he penned some of his most famous works. Nearby, Exmouth Market buzzes with modern life, but traces of its working-class roots remain, echoing the vibrant London Dickens captured with such vivid detail

Charles Dickens museum, in London - Shutterstock

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Around The Web

Urban Village Fete

Join the Urban Village Fete for a day of DJs, workshops, street food, and creativity for all ages. From mushroom growing to mini bag making, there’s something for everyone- plus over 130 prizes up for grabs when you register

A Hidden Gem of History & Curiosities

Since the 17th century, Cecil Court has been home to independent shops offering art, antiques, books, and rare finds. Explore its unique charm, rich heritage, and expert dealers in the heart of London’s West End

A 10,000-Year Clock

On display in London, this remarkable prototype showcases the principles behind the Clock of the Long Now - an ambitious timepiece designed to run for 10,000 years deep in the Texas desert. A visionary feat of engineering and long-term thinking

Vintage Finds & City Views

Discover antique shops, cafés, and historic dinosaur sculptures in this vibrant London neighbourhood - just 30 minutes from the city centre. Don’t miss Selhurst Park, Haynes Market, or Shapa Begum’s local guide

London’s Oldest Riverside Pub

Tucked away in Rotherhithe, this historic pub offers river views, classic British fare, and a cosy atmosphere by the original 1620 Mayflower mooring. Don’t miss the sunset or the top-notch fish and chips

Visitors guide to Royal Palaces, Castles and Residences in the UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most iconic royal palaces, castles and residences in the world. From the towering turrets of Windsor Castle to the elegant interiors of Buckingham Palace, these historic buildings offer a glimpse into the lives of Britain’s royal family.

Buckingham Palace - Love to Visit London

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From Social Media

The fountain in Trafalgar Square is a popular spot, offering visitors a peaceful place to relax

Yum

Three Super Easy Slow Cooked Recipes - Gordon Ramsay

Extra 

Changing of the Guard

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