When we think of the iconic sights of London, the stoic King's Guard often comes to mind, standing resolute in their bright red tunics and towering bearskin hats. These soldiers are a symbol of tradition and discipline, attracting tourists from all over the globe eager to capture a memorable photo with them. However, a recent incident outside the Household Cavalry Museum in central London serves as a stark reminder that, despite their ceremonial appearance, these guards and their horses are not mere tourist attractions.

In a shocking moment caught on camera and shared on YouTube, a tourist's quest for the perfect snapshot took a painful turn. The woman, dressed casually in a black baseball cap and a Pink Floyd t-shirt, was standing beside one of the King's Guard horses, presumably aiming for that classic tourist photo. But as she posed, the horse suddenly clamped down on her arm with such force that she was yanked towards the animal. The tourist's cries of pain can be heard in the footage as she quickly retreats from the steed to inspect her injury.

The situation escalated when, as a man attended to her with a cotton bud, the woman fainted, collapsing to the ground. She was later seen sitting against the railings, visibly shaken as she recovered from the unexpected attack. In the background, the King's Guard can be heard requesting police assistance, highlighting the seriousness of the incident.

A tourist got bit by a horse in an attempt to take a photo with the guard. Image Credit: YouTube/Buska in the Park

This alarming event is a reminder that the King's Guard horses, while majestic, are powerful animals that can be unpredictable. Signs nearby caution visitors that the horses 'may kick or bite' and explicitly advise against touching the reins. Yet, despite these warnings, tourists sometimes underestimate the potential risks in their eagerness to get close to these iconic creatures.

The King's Guard, formerly known as the Queen's Guard, is composed of soldiers from prestigious regiments such as The Grenadier Guards, The Coldstream Guards, The Scots Guards, The Irish Guards, and The Welsh Guards. While they are a popular attraction, especially during the Changing of the Guard ceremony, it's important to remember that they are active-duty soldiers. Their primary role is not to entertain but to serve and protect, and they are trained to remain non-interactive with the public, only shouting or presenting their bayonets if someone gets too close or behaves aggressively.

Incidents involving guard horses biting or kicking are not entirely unheard of. In the past, viral footage has captured similar situations where individuals have been knocked over or bitten while attempting to interact with the horses. These episodes serve as cautionary tales for anyone visiting the guards, emphasizing the need to respect the boundaries of these working animals and their handlers.

For our readers planning a trip to London or any destination with similar attractions, it's crucial to observe all posted warnings and maintain a safe distance from guard animals. While it's tempting to seek an up-close experience, your safety and well-being should always come first. Let's enjoy these magnificent symbols of history and tradition, but let's do so responsibly and safely.

Key Takeaways

• A tourist experienced a shocking encounter when a King's Guard horse bit her so severely that she fainted.
• The incident took place outside the Household Cavalry King's Guard museum in central London and was captured on video, subsequently shared on YouTube.
• There are signs warning tourists that the horses may bite or kick and to refrain from touching the reins, which suggests that the tourist may have been too close to the animal.
• The King's Guard are fully operational soldiers known for their ceremonial presence and are expected to maintain their composure without interacting with the public, except in situations where they need to maintain safety distances.

We at the Seniors Discount Club encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences. Have you ever had an unexpected encounter with an animal while traveling? How do you ensure your safety while still enjoying the sights? Join the conversation in the comments below!

 

[Ezzy]

I have no sympathy for this woman. The sign is very clear. My first thought was that the horse saw this woman as a threat because she came too close & took what it believed to be a defensive reaction.

A story on T.V. recently showed the stupid things people do to get selfies or close ups with the guards. I think this lady was lucky. A Guard was shown charging towards someone who came too close, just to cite one example.

 

[Luckyus]

At one time? I believe that if any did interact with the public, it could result in jankers or possible military prison?

 

[Dynamo]

I have no sympathy for this woman. The sign is very clear. My first thought was that the horse saw this woman as a threat because she came too close & took what it believed to be a defensive reaction.

A story on T.V. recently showed the stupid things people do to get selfies or close ups with the guards. I think this lady was lucky. A Guard was shown charging towards someone who came too close, just to cite one example.

Well said.

 

[Jest]

what a stupid twerp.

 

[Jennylolo]

people don't realise the horse's eyesight is not clear close up. It needs at least one metre to be able to determine what the shape actually is. Same at ag shows, royal shows, people go to pat the nose hanging of the door of the stall, approaching from the side and not where the horse can see clearly. and wonder why they get bitten.
They are grazing animals their sights phenomenal when head is down, and not up a close - it's al a fuzz to the horse. Their eyes on the side of the head and still need a distance to work what is coming to them.Of course they will fell threatened. That's why owners/riders talk to their animals.
this woman no doubt came in from the side. But horse with ears that far back will have already given a warning with ears just slightly back.
It's a living animal with a brain- talk to it, approach slowly. You wouldn't just walk up from the side and stand next to a bull or a croc or baboon etc. and not expect a reaction.

 

[BellaB18]

Some people do silly things when it comes to the King's guards and horses. They are doing a job which the take very seriously. Be respectful and use common sense. I am sorry the lady got such a shock but she was not following the rules just for a photo.
Kind regards to all Vicki

 

[Ezzy]

people don't realise the horse's eyesight is not clear close up. It needs at least one metre to be able to determine what the shape actually is. Same at ag shows, royal shows, people go to pat the nose hanging of the door of the stall, approaching from the side and not where the horse can see clearly. and wonder why they get bitten.
They are grazing animals their sights phenomenal when head is down, and not up a close - it's al a fuzz to the horse. Their eyes on the side of the head and still need a distance to work what is coming to them.Of course they will fell threatened. That's why owners/riders talk to their animals.
this woman no doubt came in from the side. But horse with ears that far back will have already given a warning with ears just slightly back.
It's a living animal with a brain- talk to it, approach slowly. You wouldn't just walk up from the side and stand next to a bull or a croc or baboon etc. and not expect a reaction.

Lots of info here, thankyou.
With regards to your last line, 'You wouldn't............ & not expect a reaction'. Would appear to be her downfall l think.