Contrary to popular belief, there is no Changing of the Guard ceremony held at Edinburgh Castle. The actual ceremony takes place at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, not the iconic Edinburgh Castle. In this blog post, we’ll explore the details and facts surrounding the Edinburgh Castle Changing of the Guard, as well as the guard duty sentries and the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
No Changing of the Guard at Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks, does not host the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This misconception has been perpetuated by various sources, but the truth is that the guard duty sentries were removed from the front of the castle in 2002, effectively ending any such ceremony.
Guard Duty Sentries at Edinburgh Castle
Prior to 2002, there were guard duty sentries stationed at the front of Edinburgh Castle. These sentries were responsible for maintaining a visible presence and providing security for the castle. However, the removal of these sentries in 2002 signaled the end of any Changing of the Guard ceremony at the castle.
Changing of the Guard at the Palace of Holyroodhouse
While there is no Changing of the Guard at Edinburgh Castle, the ceremony does take place at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland. The Changing of the Guard at the Palace of Holyroodhouse is not a daily occurrence, but rather part of special events or state visits, such as during ‘Holyrood Week’ or ‘Royal Week’ in late June to early July.
Schedule and Opening Hours
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is open daily throughout the year, with winter hours from November to March being 09:30 to 16:30 (last admission at 15:15) and summer hours from April to October being 09:30 to 18:00 (last admission at 16:30). The Changing of the Guard ceremony is typically scheduled during these opening hours, but it’s important to check the palace’s website or with local tourism offices for the most up-to-date information on the ceremony’s schedule.
Edinburgh Castle: History and Attractions
While Edinburgh Castle may not host the Changing of the Guard, it is still a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Scottish history and culture. The castle is home to a wealth of attractions, including the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Museum, the Prisons of War Exhibition, and the One o’clock Gun Exhibition. Visitors can explore the castle’s rich history and enjoy the stunning views of the city from its ramparts.
Garrison Sergeant Major
The Garrison Sergeant Major is responsible for delivering state ceremonial events in Scotland, including those at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This role is typically held by the most senior non-commissioned officer in Scotland, ensuring that these important ceremonies are carried out with the utmost precision and respect.
Royal Edinburgh Ticket
For visitors interested in exploring the Palace of Holyroodhouse and other top attractions in Edinburgh, the Royal Edinburgh Ticket is a great option. This ticket includes admission to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, along with other sites like the Royal Yacht Britannia. The ticket is valid for 48 hours from first use, allowing visitors to explore these sites at their own pace.
Travel to Edinburgh
Edinburgh is easily accessible by train from London, with stops in historic cities like York, Newcastle, and Durham along the way. This makes it a convenient destination for visitors looking to explore the rich history and culture of Scotland.
In conclusion, while the Changing of the Guard ceremony is not held at Edinburgh Castle, the castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse offer a wealth of historical and cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy. By understanding the facts and details surrounding the Changing of the Guard, visitors can plan their trip to Edinburgh with a better understanding of what to expect.
References:
1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHwByf76Elo
2. https://changing-guard.com/palace-holyroodhouse.html
3. https://theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2023/05/changing-of-the-guard-at-edinburgh-castle/
4. https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/see-and-do/tours-guides-and-itineraries/morning
5. https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g186525-i108-k9547005-Changing_of_the_Guard-Edinburgh_Scotland.html