The first time I went to England, I travelled around Europe for a total of 3 weeks. It was a package tour organized by my university. I stayed at London for the final 3 days. On the second day of England, I initially planed to take an optional tour to Stratfford-upon-Avon, but I cancelled it because I really wanted to see the changing guards on Buckingham Palace. On the day, I went to Buckingham Palace with several people including a university assistant who joined the tour as a tour guide’s assistant ; After seeing the changing guards, she took us to Horse Guards. On the photo of the tour, I smiled very happily when I stood by a guard. I really enjoyed the atmosphere of London and thought, "I love London!"

Horse Guards is located on the site near where it is said that Henry VIII played lawn tennis. The buildings were designed by William Kent and completed in 1755.
Since the reign of Charles II, the Horse Guards have mounted there. When the Queen is in London, the Guard consists of 15 members, which is called "Long Guard". When the Queen isn't in London, the Guards consists of 12 members, which is called "Short Guard". Many years ago, when the King or Queen travelled by road, they used to be accompanied by 100 guards.

After my first trip, I  have seen them several times, when I walked on Parliament Street and Whitehall from Westminster to Trafalgar Square. Whenever I saw them, I remembered my first trip and feel nostalgic for the day which I had a photo taken near a guard.
In 2003, I walked from Westminster to Piccadilly Circus through Horse Guards Road.
When I approached to a building, I thought, "Huh? I think I know this building."
I t was the other side of the building of Horse Guards. I usually looked it from the side where the guards stood. I went through the courtyards in front of the building and passed through the arch. Then, I found familiar guards standing in front of the building.

At Horse Guards, we can see the changing of the Guards daily as in Buckingham Palace. Actually, I have never seen it at Horse Guards, so I really want to try if I have the chance.

(2004.6.19)

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Trip to England

I really like London!