Buckingham Palace has cancelled the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremonies at both Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle for the remainder of today and tomorrow (June 24 and 25) due to scorching temperatures. The decision was prompted by a red weather warning from the Met Office, as temperatures across London have already topped 35°C and could soar as high as 39°C in the coming days.
Reason for Cancellation
The Army In London, responsible for staging the ceremonies, confirmed the cancellations were necessary to safeguard soldiers, horses, and the watching public. The heavy uniforms, including bearskin hats and scarlet tunics, pose a safety risk in extreme heat. There have been multiple instances in recent years of guards collapsing in the heat outside the royal residences, including a Horse Guard from the Coldstream Guards during a review on May 29, 2025, and at least three guards collapsing on June 10, 2023, during a rehearsal for King Charles' official birthday.
Official Statement
In an official statement, The Army in London explained: "Due to forecasted excessive temperatures this week, including a red heat alert mid-week, there will be some important changes to Ceremonial Operations across London and Windsor." The statement added: "The well-being of our soldiers, military working horses, and the public who gather in large numbers to watch these events is always our priority. In line with advice from the Met Office and other Government agencies, who are recommending a reduction in travel and outdoor activities, the following changes are in place this week: There will be no ceremonial Guard Changes in Windsor or London on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday."
Additional Changes
The scorching conditions have also led to changes in customary guarding arrangements at royal residences and other sites, including Horse Guards Parade. The statement noted: "On Wednesday, the King's Life Guard at Horse Guards will change without ceremony at 0800 to avoid heat stress to the horses. While soldiers are on Guard, you may notice they have been moved to shaded positions and are changed more frequently - this is normal practice in hot weather." It continued: "We know this is a busy and popular time of year to visit, and we're sorry if this is disappointing. Thank you for your understanding, and please do follow the Met Office advice to stay safe in the heat."
Historical Context
The Household Troops have guarded the Sovereign since 1660 and have stood watch outside Buckingham Palace since Queen Victoria established it as her official residence in 1837. During the Changing of the Guard ceremony, also known as Guard Mounting, the Old Guard is relieved by the New Guard, which marches from Wellington Barracks accompanied by a Band or Corps of Drums.
Heat Dome and Record Temperatures
This cancellation comes as a 'heat dome' descends upon western Europe, threatening temperatures approaching 40°C this week. Temperatures could edge towards the UK's all-time record of 40.3°C, recorded in July 2022. Met Office spokesman Grahame Madge stated: "The Met Office is flagging 39°C as a headline maximum temperature on Thursday, most likely for somewhere in London or the South East. It is possible we could see temperatures higher than 39°C if the final values are at the upper end of our narrow range."
