The Queen’s Guard, recognized for their iconic red coats and tall black bearskin hats, serve as more than just ceremonial figures. While they may appear still and stoic, there’s much more to their role than meets the eye. From their rich history to their lesser-known duties, here are 15 fascinating facts you might not know about the Queen’s Guard.
1. Don’t Mess with the Queen’s Guard
The Queen’s Guard holds a position of honor, similar to the Sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the U.S. Both are highly respected within their armed forces, and both face frequent challenges from tourists. Despite standing silently for hours, their duty extends beyond mere ceremonial presence. In fact, they are trained to respond swiftly when provoked, even if they appear unmoved by the public’s antics.
2. The Iconic Bearskin Headdress
The bearskin hat, synonymous with the Queen’s Guard, dates back to the Battle of Waterloo when the British defeated the French Imperial Guard. These hats, originally worn by French soldiers to appear taller and more intimidating, became part of the British uniform after their victory. Each bearskin hat is made from the pelt of a Canadian female brown bear, measuring 18 inches tall, and costing around £650.
3. It’s Not Easy to Join the Queen’s Guard
Becoming a Queen’s Guard isn’t a simple job application. Candidates must pass the British Army Recruit Battery Test and meet physical requirements. The Guard is part of the British Army, meaning recruits must undergo rigorous training, ranging from 36 to 49 weeks, depending on their chosen division, before they can serve.
4. Their Salary Might Surprise You
Despite the perception that their role is mostly ceremonial, the Queen’s Guards are well compensated. They earn an average salary of £100,000 (around $140,000), significantly more than the average security guard. Their pay reflects the challenges of their role, including handling difficult tourists and potentially dangerous situations.
5. Changing the Guard: A Grand Tradition
The Changing of the Guard is an event steeped in tradition, drawing thousands of spectators daily. This elaborate ceremony, complete with precision drills and musical accompaniment, occurs at Buckingham Palace and other royal residences. While it’s a celebrated event for onlookers, it’s a significant responsibility for the guards involved.
6. Battling the Heat: Trying Not to Faint
The Queen’s Guards must endure long hours in all weather conditions, including extreme heat. Dressed in thick wool uniforms and heavy bearskin hats, fainting is a genuine concern during heatwaves. Guards are trained to move subtly, such as wiggling their toes, to keep blood circulating and prevent fainting.
7. Women Can Serve Too
Though traditionally a male-dominated role, women have been part of the Queen’s Guard since 2000. Female soldiers from the British Army, and even from international forces, have served as part of the Queen’s Guard, including commanding roles during significant ceremonies.
8. No Bathroom Breaks
The guards’ shifts last two hours, during which they are not allowed to leave their posts for bathroom breaks. This means that if a guard can’t hold it, they may have to relieve themselves in their uniforms, which is why their thick woolen pants come in handy for masking any mishaps.
9. Their Guns Are Usually Unloaded
While the Queen’s Guards carry rifles with bayonets, these are mostly for show. The rifles are often unloaded unless there is a heightened security threat. However, their presence, along with armed police nearby, ensures safety at royal residences.
10. Seasonal Uniform Changes
While the traditional red and black uniform is most commonly associated with the Queen’s Guard, they also wear a grey coat during the colder months. This overcoat provides added warmth while maintaining the iconic look of their uniform.
11. Tourists Beware: They Can React
Though known for their stillness, Queen’s Guards are allowed to react when necessary. They may shout warnings such as “Make way for the Queen’s Guard” or even push a tourist if they feel threatened. However, they are trained to remain composed under most circumstances.
12. Boredom on the Job
Standing still for two hours at a time can be incredibly boring, but guards have developed ways to stay mentally engaged. From mentally playing movies to observing and “people-watching” tourists, they find creative ways to pass the time while remaining professional.
13. Speaking with the Queen
While the guards cannot interact with tourists or even their families, they are permitted to speak with the Queen—if she initiates the conversation. One guard shared a memorable experience of meeting the Queen and her dogs during his time at Windsor Castle.
14. Increased Security Measures
Due to heightened security risks and an increase in disrespectful tourists, the Queen’s Guards have been moved farther away from the public in recent years. In some cases, ropes and barriers have been installed to prevent tourists from interfering with the guards.
15. Protecting More than Buckingham Palace
While Buckingham Palace is their most famous post, the Queen’s Guard also protects several other royal residences, including Windsor Castle, St. James’s Palace, and even the Tower of London. They also guard Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse in Scotland when the monarch is in residence.
The Queen’s Guard is far more than just a ceremonial unit—they represent tradition, discipline, and dedication. Their role is steeped in history and continues to evolve, maintaining the honor of protecting Britain’s most iconic royal residences.
