Windsor changing of the guards

This morning we were running some errands in High Street. On the way back we decided to take the Long Walk. Frogmore House is open only a few days a year - and today is the last in the small window in May. So Merrilyn is off for a visit.

Meanwhile James and I headed home. On the way we pass Victoria Barracks - home of the Coldstream Guards 1st Battalion. This is the oldest regiment of the Army in continuous service apparently originating in 1650 with Oliver Cromwell.

It was 10:40am when we passed. The guard change starts around 10:50am with the replacement guards marching from the barracks to the Castle. The relieved guards return to the barracks around 11:30am.

We set ourselves up directly opposite the entrance to the barracks. Right on time we hear the drums and then the guards in their red coats and black bearskin hats. Other guards played small flutes (not sure what they were). Behind the band were guardsmen shouldering rifles- most with bayonettes fixed. They were flanked with signalmen carrying radios.

Its a grand sight indeed. Once they passed, James and I followed them down High Street until they turned into the Castle entrance. The actual changing of the guards ceremony is performed in the Castle grounds. You can watch this but of course need to be inside the Castle. I'm sure we'll see this many times.

We returned home via Peascod Street. At 11:00am we hear bell chimes. James is always listening out for these and annouced - "Listen Dad - church bells!"