As a tourist, there are certain things you simply have to do when visiting London — from snapping a selfie at Big Ben to strolling along the Thames. But perhaps one of the most iconic experiences is posing beside the King’s Guard, especially the mounted guards on horseback. These stoic figures — and their majestic horses — are a living symbol of Britain’s royal tradition and pageantry, attracting thousands of curious visitors each day.
However, not all photo ops go smoothly.
In their excitement to get the perfect shot, some tourists seem to forget that while the guards are trained professionals, the horses are still animals — living, breathing creatures with instincts and limits. And being approached, touched, or crowded by dozens of people every day can wear on even the calmest animal.
A viral compilation video recently shared on X (formerly Twitter) has highlighted exactly what can happen when tourists cross the line. The clip features several moments where the King’s Guard horse, clearly irritated or startled, reacts by biting at tourists who get too close or behave disrespectfully. In most cases, it appears the bite is more of a warning nip — enough to shock the person and make them back off.
Interestingly, there is a warning sign just where the Royal Guard stands along with the horse, and it clearly says, “BEWARE HORSES MAY KICK OR BITE. DON'T TOUCH THE REINS. Thank you.”
The video currently has more than 4 million views and thousands of comments, some worried, while others question why the tourists bother the animal so much just for a picture. One user wrote, “Big question is why are tourists allowed anywhere near these guards? And seriously, who are they guarding on horses and sables?”
Another wrote, “It's time they stopped tourists from getting anywhere near the Guards.”
What is the King’s House Guard?
The King's House Guard is the mounted unit stationed at the entrance to Horse Guards, which serves as the official gateway to both St James’s Palace and Buckingham Palace. This tradition dates back to a time when the Mall was closed at both ends, making Horse Guards the primary access point. The presence of sentries at this location has a long history, beginning with the Stuart Restoration, when Whitehall Palace was the principal royal residence.
However, today they play more of a ceremonial role and represent the past glory of the Royals. As per reports, these men are trained, but they are also given lessons in patience to deal with enthusiastic tourists.
However, not all photo ops go smoothly.
In their excitement to get the perfect shot, some tourists seem to forget that while the guards are trained professionals, the horses are still animals — living, breathing creatures with instincts and limits. And being approached, touched, or crowded by dozens of people every day can wear on even the calmest animal.
A viral compilation video recently shared on X (formerly Twitter) has highlighted exactly what can happen when tourists cross the line. The clip features several moments where the King’s Guard horse, clearly irritated or startled, reacts by biting at tourists who get too close or behave disrespectfully. In most cases, it appears the bite is more of a warning nip — enough to shock the person and make them back off.
Interestingly, there is a warning sign just where the Royal Guard stands along with the horse, and it clearly says, “BEWARE HORSES MAY KICK OR BITE. DON'T TOUCH THE REINS. Thank you.”
The video currently has more than 4 million views and thousands of comments, some worried, while others question why the tourists bother the animal so much just for a picture. One user wrote, “Big question is why are tourists allowed anywhere near these guards? And seriously, who are they guarding on horses and sables?”
Another wrote, “It's time they stopped tourists from getting anywhere near the Guards.”
What is the King’s House Guard?
The King's House Guard is the mounted unit stationed at the entrance to Horse Guards, which serves as the official gateway to both St James’s Palace and Buckingham Palace. This tradition dates back to a time when the Mall was closed at both ends, making Horse Guards the primary access point. The presence of sentries at this location has a long history, beginning with the Stuart Restoration, when Whitehall Palace was the principal royal residence.
However, today they play more of a ceremonial role and represent the past glory of the Royals. As per reports, these men are trained, but they are also given lessons in patience to deal with enthusiastic tourists.
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