If you have ever wondered what it is truly like to stand guard at the gates of Buckingham Palace, a serving soldier has now revealed the fascinating and demanding realities of life in the King's Guard. Lance Corporal Clark, 34, of the King's Life Guard, has shared an intimate look into his career in the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, from the intense discipline required to the surprising irritations caused by the public.
The Daily Grind: Salaries, Schedules, and Stiff Helmets
As a lance corporal in the British army, Clark earns a salary of approximately £34,000, which increases with years of service and time spent on operations away from home. The role comes with a generous 39 days of annual leave, though this is often scheduled around London's ceremonial calendar.
Days begin early, with first timings at 6.30am, and often conclude by 4pm. The physical challenge is significant, not least because of the iconic state helmets. "The state helmets you see are incredibly heavy and are quite painful," Clark admits. The discipline to remain perfectly still is instilled through training and reinforced by the presence of the public and the sovereign.
TikTok Pressure and Public Provocation
Perhaps the most revealing insight concerns the modern pressure exerted by the public. Clark identifies continuous filming by TikTokers as the most annoying aspect. "This means any mistake is caught on camera and exacerbated," he explains, noting the extreme pressure this places on junior soldiers facing criticism from online trolls.
He emphasises that while they are a tourist attraction, the guards are first and foremost operationally trained soldiers. When the public gets too close, the protocol is to de-escalate, first with a verbal reminder. If that fails, the voice is raised, and ultimately the horse is moved into a position of authority. Armed police are also on hand to assist with non-compliant civilians.
Privileges and Unforgettable Moments
The role offers unparalleled access to royal duties. The Guard escorts the monarch during state visits and is occasionally visited by the Royal Family at their London barracks. Clark stresses the absolute loyalty required, stating, "It is not in any soldier's nature to be disloyal."
For Clark, personal highlights include meeting the late Queen Elizabeth II on several occasions. He was part of the first team in history to win the Cambrian Patrol Gold Award at the HCMR, which she acknowledged. He also received the Princess Elizabeth Cup for best turned-out trooper at the Royal Windsor Horse Show directly from Her Majesty. "Leading the Household Division down The Mall for Her Majesty's birthday parade... are both my most memorable days on the job," he adds.
The Rigorous Path to a Ceremonial Post
Every soldier on the ceremonial side is an operational fighting soldier first. Training is extensive:
- Phase 1: Basic field training, including rifle and medical skills.
- Phase 2: Armoured corps specialisation, covering vehicle driving and maintenance, plus advanced dismounted drills.
- Riding School: A gruelling 19-week course in Windsor, comprising 14 weeks of 'Khaki Ride' and 5 weeks of 'Kit Ride' in full ceremonial uniform.
The total training time before a soldier is ready to parade in front of the sovereign is 45 weeks. Clark's final advice for maintaining discipline centres on self-pride: "Always put in the best effort you can as it is your name that is carried with you... look to reach above and beyond what is required."
