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Horse Guards Whitehall

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Barracks Historic UK London Ceremonial Household Cavalry

description Horse Guards Whitehall Overview

Horse Guards is a historic government building on Whitehall in central London, completed between 1750 and 1753 to a design by architect William Kent. It serves as the formal entrance to St James's Palace and Whitehall Palace and houses the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, which performs the daily Changing of The King's Life Guard ceremony in the building's courtyard. The Palladian-style structure features a central clock tower surmounted by a statue and a central archway flanked by guardhouses. The Household Cavalry Museum, located within the building's vaulted stables, is open to the public.

help Horse Guards Whitehall FAQ

Is Horse Guards the same place as Horse Guards Parade?

No. Horse Guards is the Palladian building facing Whitehall, while Horse Guards Parade is the large ceremonial ground immediately behind it.

What ceremony can visitors watch at Horse Guards?

Visitors commonly come to see the King's Life Guard and its changing ceremony, performed by mounted Household Cavalry personnel. Horse Guards Parade also hosts the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony for the sovereign's official birthday.

Who designed the Horse Guards building in Whitehall?

William Kent designed the building, which was completed in 1753 after his death. It replaced an earlier guard house on the site and remains one of Whitehall's major 18th-century landmarks.

Can pedestrians walk through Horse Guards from Whitehall to St James's Park?

The central arches normally provide a public route between Whitehall, Horse Guards Parade, and St James's Park. Access may be restricted during ceremonies, security operations, or major state events.

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