From royal guards to runaways: Military horses break free in Central London

The usually serene streets of central London were thrown into disarray when a series of events unfolded, leaving residents and passersby bewildered and concerned.

Near the iconic Buckingham Palace and the heart of the British government, a group of military horses, including one distressingly covered in blood, broke free and charged through the area.


The incident, which unfolded on a Wednesday morning (April 24, 2024), transformed the routine commute of Londoners into a scene of confusion and concern.

A British army spokesperson said, ‘A number of military working horses became loose during a routine exercise this morning.’

Watching those powerful animals galloping freely through the busy city streets was jaw-dropping and unexpected.

It was like witnessing a scene straight out of a movie, but happening right in front of everyone's eyes, stirring up a mix of awe and concern among the crowd.


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Photos of the horses galloping through the streets of London were posted on social media by various bystanders. Image Source: X / @jhopwv


However, the consequences of the equine escape were significant.

‘A number of personnel and horses have been injured and are receiving the appropriate medical attention,’ the army representative added, highlighting the seriousness of the event.

Medical authorities confirmed that four individuals had been taken to hospital with injuries sustained during the incident.


Television footage captured the alarming spectacle, showing one white horse, still saddled and seemingly covered in blood, running alongside another horse of a darker hue.

The images starkly contrasted the disciplined and majestic appearance these horses typically present during ceremonial duties.

Initially, London’s Metropolitan Police reported that they were in the process of locating ‘a number of horses that are currently loose in central London.’

They later updated the public, confirming that all the animals had been accounted for, bringing a sigh of relief to those concerned about the safety of the horses and the people.


The horses in question are part of the Household Cavalry, an esteemed unit that serves as the British monarch’s official bodyguard.

Known for their participation in ceremonial duties, these horses are a symbol of British tradition and are usually garrisoned at Hyde Park Barracks near Buckingham Palace.

From unexpected train station encounters to daring city escapades, this latest equine adventure is just the tip of the iceberg in a series of headline-grabbing horse exploits.
Key Takeaways

  • Military horses, including one covered in blood, ran amok on the streets of central London, near Buckingham Palace, injuring at least four people.
  • The incident took place during a routine exercise, and all of the horses were recovered and returned to camp following the chaos.
  • Four individuals were hospitalised due to injuries sustained from the incident.
  • The runaway horses are part of the Household Cavalry, which serves as the British monarch's official bodyguard and performs ceremonial duties.
Have you ever experienced an unexpected encounter with an animal? Tell your story in the comments below.
 
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Sad with what these horses have to put up with these days. And this isn't just in London. It's everywhere in the world. Remember when horses were first used the age of the vehicle was nonexistent and human population was low. Now it's a ticking time bomb for them.
 

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