General Information

This is the biggest parade ground in central London. It is the site of annual ceremonies of Trooping the Colour, which commemorate the monarch’s official birthday. The area has been used for a variety of reviews, parades and other ceremonies since the 17th century.

History: Highlights

Horse Guards Parade was formerly the site of the Palace of Whitehall’s tiltyard, where tournaments were held in the time of Henry VIII. It was also the scene of annual celebrations of the birthday of Queen Elizabeth I.

Layout: Highlights

The parade ground is open on the west side, where it faces Horse Guards Road and St James’s Park. It is flanked on the north by the Old Admiralty and the Admiralty Citadel, on the east by William Kent’s Horse Guards and on the south by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the rear garden wall of 10 Downing Street.

Trooping the Colour: Highlights

A ceremony of parading a regiment’s flag among soldiers. Traditionally it marks the official birthday of the sovereign and is performed on a Saturday in June on Horse Guards Parade by St James’s Park. Among the audience are the Royal Family, guests and the general public. The colourful ceremony is also known as ‘The Queen’s Birthday Parade’.

The Games: Highlights

Horse Guards Parade will be transformed into a beach volleyball venue during the Games. The airport-style security screening before entering will make the tournaments safe. As these security measures take some time, you should expect to wait to enter. First event takes place on July 28, 09:30.

The Games: Explained

One soft-sided bag is allowed per person but you cannot bring in alcohol, liquids, aerosols or gels in quantities larger than 100ml. This includes drinks, perfume and other cosmetics and gels. There’s nothing to worry about, a great variety of food and drink is available to buy inside Horse Guards Parade. The only way to pay is by Visa or cash and there’s no ATM inside.