Horse Guards Parade was previously the only entrance to both St James's and Buckingham Palace and sits on the same site where jousting tournaments were once held in the time of Henry VIII. Today it is still the venue for major military ceremonies, such as the Trooping the Colour and Beating the Retreat and in 2012 will also host the beach volleyball competition in the London Olympics.

Taking its name from the soldiers who have provided protection to the monarchy since 1660, it remains the official entrance for Buckingham Palace and so is permanently guarded by the horse-mounted Queen's Life Guard.

Changing of the Life Guard takes place each weekday at 11:00 and at 10:00 on a Sunday. The new guard leaves Hyde Park Barracks approximately 30 minutes beforehand and rides to Horse Guards Parade via Hyde Park Corner, Constitution Hill and The Mall.

Whilst the ceremonial display is great to watch, the guard's function is very real as they patrol the grounds of the Palace. The guards also perform active duties around the world and are some of the most skilled and elite members of the British Army.

It is possible for you to obtain a picture next to one of the guards, which is perfectly acceptable, although please appreciate that they will not speak to you or acknowledge your existence in the slightest. However, we recommend that you refrain from trying to distract the guards, or act silly or suspiciously, as this could result in a free stay in the Tower of London!