Dismounting Ceremony (or Four O'Clock Parade) review (Oct 2012)This is out-of-date! I have been here again since I wrote this review Visit London Drum’s YouTube channel for more videos
This one takes place every single day at Horse Guards, in the little courtyard that faces onto Whitehall. The reason that I've never been to it before is because I could never be bothered to wait around until 4 o'clock in the afternoon, when it takes place. But today I steeled myself for the job and I did the deed. Compared to the other ceremonies like Changing of the Guard, this one is just a sideshow. It's very short and not a lot happens. It's all over in ten minutes. All you get is six soldiers, two horses, and a big boss guy who walks around and shouts at them for two minutes. Then they all go inside. That is basically all that happens.
If you like military displays and you've got a soft spot for the Changing of the Guard, then it makes sense to see this one too -- because it will complete your set. I was certainly glad that I did it. But it's one of those things that you can leave if you want, and you won't have missed much. If you happen to be down Whitehall at 4 PM, then pop in for a bit of pageantry. But otherwise give it a miss.
Here are some other parades and ceremonies I’ve been to…
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