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.


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.

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!