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The Guards Museum

London, United Kingdom•4.4(629)•Heritage Site, Museum

Explore nearly 400 years of British military history through the lives and stories of the five regiments of the King's Household Division.

The Guards Museum offers visitors an immersive journey into the history and tradition of Britain's most iconic military regiments. Located in central London, just moments from Buckingham Palace and St. James's Park, the museum presents the dual role of the Guards—their ceremonial duties protecting the monarchy and their active service across centuries of British history. Through personal stories, historical objects, and engaging displays, visitors discover what it means to serve in the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards, Scots Guards, Irish Guards, and Welsh Guards. The museum features permanent displays exploring the Guards' evolution from the 1600s to the present day, showcasing uniforms, artifacts, and exhibitions that bring their remarkable story to life. Visitors can learn about the precision and pageantry behind London's most famous ceremony—the Changing of the Guard—and understand the courage and duty that defines these regiments. Suitable for families and visitors of all ages, the museum provides guided tours, family-friendly activities, and special group experiences. The venue offers accessibility facilities and combines education with the unique atmosphere of a working military institution in the heart of London. Whether interested in military history, royal tradition, or British heritage, The Guards Museum delivers an unforgettable experience.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 16:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 16:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 16:00
Friday: 10:00 – 16:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.4(629 reviews)
H
Howard Malyon

Howard Malyon

2 months ago

Brilliant museum around the corner from Buckingham Palace. There is a great tutorial video about the guards and then you have your own headset, with different language options, to use as you walk around the museum. The museum maybe small but is absolutely packed with information right up to the current times.

M
Ms Chhetri

Ms Chhetri

7 months ago

We attended the Family Fun on Chapel Square event at The Guards Museum and had a really enjoyable day! It was a guard-themed adventure with lots for kids to do. There was a small play area, crafts, a live band, and we also got to watch the parade and visit the chapel. We even lit a candle and made a small donation, which made the visit feel extra meaningful. The highlight for my daughter was getting to try on the guard’s uniform – such a special experience and definitely a core memory for her! The staff were welcoming, and the atmosphere was family-friendly. The only downside was that, despite booking in advance, it seemed many tourists who hadn’t booked also joined in (probably because of the summer holidays). Luckily, that didn’t affect our fun. A small note for families: there are no toilets onsite – you’ll need to use the ones in St James’s Park or nearby at a pub near St James station. Overall, a fun and memorable experience for kids and families! 👑🎶🎨

K
Kue Et Takahashi

Kue Et Takahashi

7 months ago

We had a remarkable guided tour led by Peter. Located at the top of the stairs outside the museum, there are guard boxes that offer the opportunity for a complimentary photograph. The museum itself is situated at the base of these stairs. For visitors requiring an elevator or lift, it is advisable to contact the facility in advance. The museum features a designated activity area for children, effectively engaging young visitors. The children observed during our visit appeared to thoroughly enjoy their time there. Seating options are available in various locations throughout the museum for those in need of a brief respite. However, it is important to note that there are no restroom facilities on-site; therefore, visitors should utilize the amenities available in St. James’ Park, which is conveniently located directly across the street near one of the cafes and the playground. The museum displays numerous artifacts from previous conflicts, many of which are accompanied by intriguing narratives. Additionally, several display cases featured 'tap here' zones, which appear to be intended for audio guide accessibility.

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Bree M

Bree M

9 months ago

We really enjoyed a tour here given by Peter. There are guard boxes that you can stand in at the top of the stairs outside the museum for a free photo op. The museum is down the stairs. Call if you need an elevator/lift. There is a kids’ activity thing to keep their interest. The kids we saw there were enjoying themselves. There are chairs here and there if you need to sit. There are no restrooms/toilets available, so use the restrooms in St James’ Park across the road by one of the cafes and playground. There were lots of relics from past wars, and many items had interesting stories. There were ‘tap here’ spots on the cases that I presume were for the audio guides.

B
Braulio A.

Braulio A.

a year ago

The Guards Museum is a charming and relatively small museum located in the heart of London, with an entry fee of £10 per person. All the proceeds from ticket sales go directly towards supporting the museum, helping to keep it open and preserve its collections. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Guards, featuring a wide range of remarkable artifacts that showcase their storied past. Despite being tucked away amidst London’s larger, more well-known attractions, it’s a hidden gem for those interested in British military history.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at The Guards Museum

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about The Guards Museum

Is The Guards Museum free to visit?

The Guards Museum is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is The Guards Museum suitable for?

The Guards Museum is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is The Guards Museum dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at The Guards Museum.

Is there parking at The Guards Museum?

The Guards Museum doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at The Guards Museum?

The Guards Museum doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is The Guards Museum pushchair-friendly?

The Guards Museum isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at The Guards Museum?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to The Guards Museum.

How do I get to The Guards Museum by public transport?

The Guards Museum is well-served by public transport.
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