The men you will see in front of Buckingham Palace are not just ceremonial guards but also serving soldiers. While upholding the traditions of the past, they also perform duties throughout the world as professional soldiers and are known as some of the most elite and skilled soldiers in the British Army. The Queen's Guard (infantry )and Queen's Life Guard (cavalry) are the names given to contingents of soldiers charged with guarding the official royal residences in London. The British Army had regiments of both Horse Guards and Foot Guards predating the English Restoration in 1660, and since the reign of King Charles II these have been responsible for guarding the Sovereign's palaces. The other five regiments of foot are: The Grenadier Guards The Coldstream Guards The Scots Guards The Irish Guards The Welsh Guards The Changing of the Guards Ceremony takes place at 11:00 AM. Scanned 1995 photo. Some data from Wikipedia. Thanks for stopping by my gallery, taking a look and for all your previous favs and comments. They are very much appreciated. Dana