King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery

A QF 13-pounder being fired in Green Park.

Anyone that has visited London while it is celebrating a Royal birthday, wedding, celebration or state visit, will no doubt have seen, if not heard, cannon being fired from one of the Royal Parks, HM Palace and Fortress at the Tower of London or another special site.

The gun salute is a ceremonial duty performed by the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, who were created to perform this role, among other things, by King George VI.

The King's Troop on Constitution Hill waiting to enter Green Park.

One of the most accessible places to view the gun salute is in Green Park, which allows you to see the Troop on Constitution Hill and then follow them charging in to Green Park and setting up.

Preparing to fire the first shot of the gun salute.

If you ever get the chance to witness a gun salute... take it.

Horse Guards Parade

You Shall Not Pass.

Saturday December 19, 2009.

When walking along Whitehall, it is hard to miss the Life Guards, sitting proud astride their mounts, or standing silent in their alcoves at Horse Guards Parade. 

Standing in silence at Horse Guards Parade.

Walking through the arch, which is still the official entrance to St James's and Buckingham Palace, leads you on to the ceremonial parade ground, beyond. 

Horse Guards Parade and the parade ground.

If you time your visit you can watch the Changing of the Queen's Life Guard, which is always a crowd puller. 

Ready for inspection.

Within Horse Guards Parade is the Household Cavalry Museum, where you can try on the uniforms, learn about their history and also see the stables and regiment in action.