The Household Cavalry Museum: A Living Legacy of Britain's Elite Mounted Regiment
Explore the living history and pageantry of Britain’s elite Household Cavalry at their historic London headquarters.
Located in the historic Horse Guards building in Whitehall, London, the Household Cavalry Museum offers a unique glimpse into the traditions, history, and daily life of the British Army's senior regiments, the Life Guards and the Blues and Royals. Visitors can explore dazzling displays of ceremonial uniforms, weaponry, and regimental artifacts, and observe troopers tending to their horses in the original 18th-century stables through a glass partition. Open daily, this museum blends pageantry, military heritage, and living tradition in the heart of London.
A brief summary to The Household Cavalry Museum
- 66 Horse Guards Ave, Whitehall, London, SW1A 2AX, GB
- +442079303070
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the morning to catch the Changing of the King’s Life Guard on Horse Guards Parade at 11am for a spectacular display of ceremonial tradition.
- Allow at least 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the museum’s galleries and watch the troopers care for their horses through the stables’ glass partition.
- Use the personal audio-visual guide included with admission for an immersive, multilingual experience that brings the regiment’s history to life.
- Photography is allowed inside the museum, but avoid using flash near delicate artifacts to preserve them.
- Check the museum’s official website before visiting for any planned closures or changes to opening hours due to ceremonial events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Charing Cross station (Bakerloo and Northern lines), a 7-minute walk to the museum. Trains run frequently, and the station is fully accessible. Tickets cost between £2.50 and £6.00 depending on travel zones.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Whitehall, including routes 11, 24, and 148. Buses run every 5 to 15 minutes from central London locations, with fares around £1.75 using contactless payment.
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Taxi
Licensed London black cabs or ride-hailing services can drop you directly at Horse Guards Avenue. Travel time from central London areas is typically 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic, with fares starting at approximately £8.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, the museum is within walking distance of Trafalgar Square and Westminster. Expect a 10 to 20 minute walk on mostly flat, paved streets suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
The Household Cavalry Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Household Cavalry Museum
Historic Setting at the Heart of London
The Household Cavalry Museum is housed within the magnificent mid-18th century Horse Guards building, situated on Horse Guards Avenue in Whitehall. This location places it at the ceremonial and political core of London, nestled between Trafalgar Square and Westminster Abbey. The building itself was constructed between 1750 and 1759 as a military headquarters and remains a working base for the Household Cavalry regiment. The museum occupies three galleries on the ground floor, offering visitors a chance to explore this historic site while learning about the regiment’s storied past.Living Traditions and Military Heritage
The museum celebrates the history and exploits of the Household Cavalry, the British Army’s senior mounted regiment formed in 1660 by King Charles II. It is unique in combining ceremonial duties with operational military roles worldwide. Exhibits include dazzling displays of ceremonial uniforms, helmets, cuirasses, and royal standards, alongside rare artifacts such as silverware by Fabergé. Visitors also gain insight into the selection, training, and care of the horses that are integral to the regiment’s identity.Behind-the-Scenes Access to the Cavalry Stables
One of the museum’s most captivating features is the large glazed partition that allows visitors to watch cavalry troopers tending to their horses in the original 18th-century vaulted stables. This live glimpse into the daily routines of the regiment brings the history to life, revealing the demanding training and care required to maintain the horses and uphold centuries-old traditions.Pageantry and Ceremonial Events
The Household Cavalry Museum is closely linked to the ceremonial life of London. Visitors can time their visit to witness the Changing of the King’s Life Guard on Horse Guards Parade, which occurs on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 11am, and a shorter inspection on other days. The daily inspection of the guards, a tradition dating back to 1894 under Queen Victoria, takes place at 4pm in the Front Yard of Whitehall. These events showcase the precision and discipline of the regiment in full ceremonial dress.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The museum offers personal audio-visual guides included in the admission price, available in multiple languages, enhancing the visitor experience with detailed narratives and stories. Photography is permitted throughout most areas, though flash is restricted near delicate exhibits. The museum is fully wheelchair and pushchair accessible, with automatic doors and accessible facilities. A well-stocked gift shop is also available for souvenirs.Practical Information and Admission
The Household Cavalry Museum is open daily from 10am, closing at 6pm between April and October and at 5pm from November to March, with last admission 45 minutes before closing. Adult tickets are priced around £6.00, with concessions and family tickets available. The museum is located near several London Underground stations including Charing Cross, Westminster, and Embankment, making it easily accessible by public transport. Occasional closures may occur due to ceremonial activities or security reasons.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Dover House
0.1 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
Guards Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.2 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
10 Downing St
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Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
The Women of World War II
0.2 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
10 Downing Street
0.2 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
16-18 Whitehall
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Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Old Admiralty Building
0.2 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Captain James Cook
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Admiralty Arch
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A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.2 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
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A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
The Cenotaph
0.3 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
Chindit Memorial
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A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Horse Guards Parade
0.0 km
Historic ceremonial parade ground in London’s Whitehall, famed for royal pageantry and military tradition since the 16th century.
Banqueting House
0.1 km
Explore London's Banqueting House, a Palladian masterpiece with Rubens' ceiling and the historic site of King Charles I’s execution.
Royal Naval Division War Memorial
0.1 km
A solemn Lutyens-designed fountain and obelisk memorial honoring the Royal Naval Division’s WWI sacrifices on historic Horse Guards Parade.
The Ghost Bus Tours
0.2 km
Dark comedy meets London history on a theatrical double-decker bus tour through the capital's most sinister stories.
Victoria Embankment Gardens: Whitehall Gardens
0.3 km
A peaceful riverside garden in central London blending historic monuments, vibrant blooms, and tranquil green spaces along the Thames.
Grand Building
0.3 km
A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
Churchill War Rooms
0.3 km
Britain's secret wartime headquarters where Churchill directed the fight against Nazi tyranny from underground bunkers beneath Westminster.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.3 km
Experience the best of London's nightlife with laughter and drinks at The Boat Show Comedy Club, set in the unique Tattershall Castle.
Duke of York Column
0.3 km
A towering granite column in London honoring the Duke of York’s military legacy, crowned with a grand bronze statue atop historic Waterloo Place.
The Battle of Britain Monument
0.3 km
A powerful bronze and granite tribute on London’s Victoria Embankment honoring the heroic RAF pilots of the 1940 Battle of Britain.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.3 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Trafalgar Square
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
Canada House
0.4 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Carlton House Terrace
0.4 km
Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Embankment Pl
0.4 km
A sleek postmodern complex blending riverside charm with central London’s vibrant urban pulse.
Essential places to dine
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.2 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
The Garden
0.3 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.3 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Bustronome London
0.5 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
J Sheekey
0.7 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
wagamama southbank
0.7 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.7 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Strada Southbank
0.7 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
OKAN South Bank
0.7 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
The Pem
0.7 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Rules
0.7 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Golden Lion
0.7 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Troia Southbank
0.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.7 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Gifts of London
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.4 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.5 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.6 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.6 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.6 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.7 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
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Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Cool Britania
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Lillywhites
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London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
M&M'S London
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Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Unique Britain
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Browns of London
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Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
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Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Spy Bar
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Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Old Shades
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Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.3 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Westminster Arms
0.5 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.5 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Two Chairmen
0.6 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.6 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
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A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Champagne Bar
0.6 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.6 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Blind Spot London
0.6 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Blue Boar Pub
0.7 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.7 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.7 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.3 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Heaven
0.4 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Tiger Tiger London
0.6 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.7 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.7 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Café de Paris
0.7 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Penthouse London
0.7 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Scotch of St James
0.7 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Cirque Du Soul
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
0.8 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.9 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.9 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
The Ivy Club
0.9 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
