The Household Cavalry Museum in London is a hidden gem that every visitor to the city should add to their itinerary. This unique museum offers an up-close look at the ceremonial and operational role of the Household Cavalry, one of the oldest and most prestigious regiments in the British Army.
About Household Cavalry Museum
As you step inside the museum, you will be transported back in time to the 1660s, when Charles II first formed the Household Cavalry.
The museum is housed in a historic building within the Horse Guards, just off Whitehall. The building has been restored and adapted to house the museum’s impressive collection of artefacts. Here, you’ll see uniforms, weapons, and equipment from the regiment’s long history.
What to expect
One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. The Household Cavalry provides the King’s Life Guard, which is responsible for protecting the official royal residences in London.
You can witness the daily ceremony from the museum’s courtyard or from the street outside.
In addition to the ceremonial aspects, the museum also offers a fascinating insight into the regiment’s operational duties. The Household Cavalry has played an important role in military campaigns throughout history. This includes the Napoleonic Wars, the Boer War, and both World Wars.
The museum’s collection includes weapons and equipment used in these conflicts. There are exhibitions showcasing the daily life of a soldier in the regiment.
One of the most interesting aspects of the museum is the opportunity to see the horses up close. The Household Cavalry has a long tradition of breeding and training its own horses, and you can see these magnificent animals in the museum’s stables.
The horses are trained for ceremonial duties, but also for operational tasks, such as reconnaissance and patrol duties.
The museum offers a range of tours and experiences for visitors, including a guided tour with a serving member of the regiment. The guides are highly knowledgeable and provide an insight into the unique culture and traditions of the Household Cavalry.
