The Changing the Guard

A Timeless Tradition of Royal Duty and Ceremony

"I have to be seen to be believed" - Queen Elizabeth II

Today Newsletter Presented By

Love London? Share the delight! Today’s newsletter celebrates the beauty, culture, and spirit of London, from its iconic landmarks, castles and historic streets to its vibrant traditions and flavours. Know someone who dreams of London too? Spread the magic by forwarding this to a friend - they’ll love discovering a little bit of London in their inbox!

The changing of the guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace - Shutterstock

---

In today’s email: 

• The Changing the Guard

• Harry Potter’s London

• Around The Web: Between the Bridges; Roald Dahl Transfers to West End;

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

• From Social Media -This London souvenir shop is full of fun and colourful gifts

• Yum Recipes - British chilli Con Carne

• Extra - Changing of the Guard Ceremony

---

The Changing the Guard

The Changing of The Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace follows a traditional format, with the Old Guard (currently on duty) being relieved by the New Guard from Wellington Barracks, accompanied by a Band. The ceremony represents a formal handover of duties.

The Guard is provided by one of the five Foot Guards Regiments, identified by their tunic buttons and bearskin cap plume. Soldiers carry Colours, regimental flags displaying honours or emblems.

Inspections occur daily at 15:00, and on Sundays, the Colour is paraded at 11:00. This includes the national anthem and the march back to St James’s Palace. Changing the Guard begins at 1045 and lasts 45 minutes. Arrive early for the best view

Changing of the Guard ceremony in front of Buckingham Palace in London - Shutterstock

Harry Potter’s London

London is one of the most exciting cities in the world — and not just for Muggles. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, the capital is full of real-life places that featured in the films or inspired scenes from the books. Whether it’s the bridge the Death Eaters destroyed or the spot where Harry first spoke Parseltongue, you’ll find bits of the wizarding world all across the city.

Let’s go to the most magical places in London. But that’s not all — you’ll also discover the real history behind these famous landmarks. It’s the perfect mix of fact and fantasy, with something for film fans, history lovers, and curious travellers alike

St Pancras and Kings Cross train stations in London - Shutterstock

---

Around The Web

Between the Bridges

Following the hugely successful, sold-out run at Between the Bridges in April 2024, BREW//LDN, the UK's largest and most diverse craft drinks festival, is back for 2025 with the mission to offer people quality liquid, premium street food and great music

Roald Dahl Transfers to West End

Mark Rosenblatt’s acclaimed play GIANT, starring John Lithgow as Roald Dahl, will have a 14-week run at the Harold Pinter Theatre from 26 April to 2 August 2025. Directed by Nicholas Hytner, the production explores Dahl's struggles amid scandal and controversy

The Painted Hall

The Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is a Baroque masterpiece, with its extraordinary ceiling and wall decorations by Sir James Thornhill. Known as ‘Britain’s Sistine Chapel,’ it took nineteen years to complete and covers 40,000 square feet, reflecting the grandeur of the Royal Hospital's main Hall

Discover Stokesay Castle

Stokesay Castle's Great Hall, with its original 1291 timber roof and staircase, offers a step back in time. Explore the North and South Towers, Solar, and 17th-century Gatehouse, each revealing fascinating details of the castle’s medieval and post-medieval past

Afternoon Tea with a View

Indulge in Afternoon Tea at Vicinity, offering stunning views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Enjoy classic finger sandwiches and inventive desserts like Pimm's Victoria Sponge, all served in the contemporary restaurant or on the al fresco terrace

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

---

From Social Media

This London souvenir shop is full of fun and colourful gifts. You’ll find Union Jack mugs, red phone box keyrings, mini Big Bens, and more

Yum

British chilli Con Carne

Extra 

Changing of the Guard Ceremony

Thank you for reading Love to Visit London— your support allows us to keep doing this work.

If you enjoy Love to Visit London, it would mean the world to us if you invited friends to subscribe and read with us.