So even after being here for two months, I had yet to see the changing of the guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. I know, I know, it's a big deal and a token tourist thing, but it just took me this long to get around to it I guess. The real issue is that I just never picked a date to do it so time started getting away from me. This past weekend though, as it was one of my only weekends left in London, I had a fun-filled weekend exploring England and its traditions. I'm staying on top of my to-do list - as promised!
So alas I finally chose a day to go - last Friday! And Taylor agreed to go with me :) Unfortunately I chose a very cold, semi-rainy day and I was only going to do this once so getting a great view was imperative. I had heard from other friends that went that even if you are a few rows of people back it is quite difficult to see all the action going on in the yard right in front of the palace. So Taylor and I made sure this wouldn't happen and we got there at 9:45am. The ceremony starts at 11:30. People didn't really start showing up for the ceremony until 10:15/10:30, but we definitely got our prime choice of spot! We were right up against the fence to the right of the main gate and could see everything. Unfortunately by the end of the ceremony my fingers and toes felt like they were going to fall off, but I still enjoyed the ceremony. Very ritualistic. It seemed to only pose more questions though regarding the Beefeaters and the reasons for their doing certain things, but I guess it is all part of the tradition. I'm sure they were freezing as well. They have to just stand there, so still for so long! And four times a week during the colder months! And then when it starts raining...those men are hardcore! I couldn't really understand what they were saying though even though they were screaming all sorts of commands. It sounded like they were speaking German to me, but Taylor insists it was English. I guess she might be right ;)
All bundled up, trying to stay warm as we wait for the ceremony to begin.
The original guards when we got there.
Lots of umbrellas were out. Luckily the rain stopped after half an hour.
The flag that flies when the Queen is present at the Palace.
Side note: We actually saw the Queen's car leave the Palace (with a whole slew of other cars of course), but didn't know it at the time. Taylor finally figured it out because the flag changed halfway through the ceremony. So I didn't see her per say, but I was certainly in her presence for all of fifteen seconds. How cool is that!
Here they come! A parade of Beefeaters.
All the people lined up to see.
I took out my paparazzi lens, as I like to call it, so I could get some better photos closer up.
Completely in sync.
They marched around a lot and then the band played some music.
Even they carry weapons.
This is the band that played in the parade leading up to the yard. They then waited around while the others had their turn.
Now some fun Beefeater headshots!
This is my favorite! He was probably trying to stifle a yawn. They're real people just like us!
Opening the gate to let them through.
The guard is now changed!
All good!
Another tradition witnessed.
Another to-do box checked.
Another successful day in London.
This girl is one happy camper :)
Cheers!
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