Ceremonial Events

Ceremonial trumpeter

Ceremonial duties are an important part of Army history and tradition, and all soldiers undertaking this role are highly trained soldiers who also play an important part in military operations worldwide. Ceremonial events take place throughout the country, and indeed the world, but few are as high profile as those that draw millions of tourists to London year after year.

Changing the Guard

Changing of the Guard

A summary of timings for the Changing the Guard ceremonies in London and Windsor

Trooping the Colour

Trooping the Colour

The official birthday of the Sovereign is marked each year by a military parade and march-past, known as Trooping the Colour, which takes place each June on Horse Guards Parade, London.

Beating retreat

Beating Retreat

On two successive evenings in June, London's Horse Guards Parade, resounds to the stirring sounds of the Massed Bands of the Household Division as they perform Beating Retreat.

Poppy wreaths

Remembrance Sunday

The Household Cavalry and one of the Foot Guards Battalions provide a small contingent on the Sunday nearest to 11th November, the anniversary of the end of hostilities in the First World War.

State visit

State Visits

State visits are formal visits to the UK by Heads of State from overseas, in which the Household Division plays a major ceremonial role.

Her Majesty The Queen, travelling in State Procession to open Parliament.

The State Opening of Parliament

Each year the Sovereign drives in State to Westminster for the State Opening of Parliament and is accompanied by various elements of Household Division.

The Queen's Guard

The Queen's Guard

The Queen's Guard and Queen's Life Guard are the names given to contingents of soldiers charged with guarding the official royal residences in London.

The Queen's Life Guard

The Queen's Life Guard

The Queen's Life Guard is provided by men of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment (HCMR) at Horse Guards.