Best viewing of Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

I like near the barracks, as they seem to do a lot of playing and wandering around in there both before and after. Makes things last a bit longer.

On our first trip to London we arrived very early and could have had a choice of any location. Unfortunately we chose the top step of the memorial think it would give the best overall view -- it doesn't. Since then we have learned that the black, fence is the best. The action takes place in the court yard behind the fence and you just cannot see it clearly from the memorial. You can always catch the parade anywhere along the way later.

The fence. But know this, I think that is the rudest place I have ever been in my life. Pushing, yelling, and just out and out rudeness! If you give an inch for someone to see around you, they will have your spot in a heart beat. They have no problem in shoving or pushing you out of the way to get your spot. They have no problem in shoving their kids in front of you. They have no problem in putting their camera in front of you.

I watched in total disbelief at the way people acted. The police had to come through and make people get down off the fence. It but a whole new meaning to ugly tourist!

I missed the Changing of the Guard my first day in London, and then the next day I was walking on the Mall and the parade of Guards, Horse Guards, a band, etc. on the way to the Changing of the Guard was very exciting, and there was no pushing or crowding (even though it was summer) because everyone else was crowding around the palace. Just a though in case you don't find a spot you like in front of the palace.

I agree with Bob- Windsor is much nicer to see! I have been to Buckingham a few times and each one in a different place. The parade is nice and almost anywhere along the route is good. But most people won't get to see the actual "changing".

Unless you're up against the railings no view is particularly good. The memorial is slightly elevated so you can see over the crowds in front of you but you're a fair way from the ceromony.
I know you want to see Buckingham Palace, but the best place to see Changing of the Guard is at Horseguards on the other side of St James Park. There is a much smaller crowd here and you're almost next to the guards many of which are mounted on horses unlike Buckingham Palace.
If you are going to Windsor castle there is a similar Changing of the Guard at 11 am there, again without the crowds of Buck Palace. The backdrop is much nicer too at Windsor Castle.

David - I agree with Bob's post. Last summer we tried to see the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace and it was to crowded. A local told us to go to the Changing of the Guard at Horseguards. It was definitly less crowded.

I agree with Bob,viewing of Changing of the Guard is much better at Windsor Castle. You have great views and can get up close. You can get to Windsor by train from Paddington Station it's a 35minute ride, once you get into Windsor you walk up to the road (a minute walk)and the castle is right there. During February the Changing of the Guards at Windsor will take place on even dates (2,4,6 etc).