Contrary to the general belief the Queen’s guard or the Queens life guards are real soldiers enlisted with the British army assigned as guardians to the royal residence. They aren’t merely ceremonial performers. Although their beautiful red coats and tall top hats remind you of toy soldiers associated with good old fairytales.
Changing of the guards is a colourful daily routine that is viewed by many spectators. Although it is a simple military practice of changing the guard on duty, it is ceremonially performed and is an interesting attraction in the city of London. Precisely at 10.00 am in the morning the new guard appointed reports to duty and to signify this, corps of drums are played on the forecourt of Buckingham palace. This changing guard has around 35 musicians performing directed by a Director of music of course!
The red clad soldiers wear 18 inch tall real Bearskin from Canadian brown bears and they weigh 1.5 lbs. The French first wore these to appear more intimidating and tall. But the British adopted this in 1815 following defeat of Napoleons French imperial guards. A rather fascinating way to guard the royals don’t you think? Recent Attempts to find a synthetic alternative to these bearskin hats have failed.
When the queen is in residence the guards are increased to four at the front of the Buckingham palace. The complete cavalcade consists of 36 officials. This is only part of the royalties you could experience in London. If on the lookout for accommodation in London you will find many luxury hotel group offering star class accommodation options within the city as well as the outskirts of London. COMO Hotels and Resorts is and award winning hotel in the heart of the city that has been praised around the world for the comforts and conveniences it effortlessly offers its guests.
If you are gearing up to spend a few days experiencing the unpredictable weather, the busy but regal city streets and the age old beauty of this historic city then choose the Como hotel to pamper you while absorb the best of London.
