They’re part of British history
They need to be tall
They need to pass an exam
They go through a demanding training program
Remuneration package
They are early birds
They have to be resilient
Their hats are old, big, and heavy
They wear their hats in a peculiar way
Their uniforms must be in top-notch condition at all times
They may faint
Hot weather can be a nightmare
They can still serve their country in military operations
They might chat with members of the royal family

The King's Guard is a quintessential British symbol. Just look at any pictures of Buckingham Palace or other royal residences, and you will see these men dressed in red with tall, black fur hats—these are the sovereign's bodyguards. These royal guards have been protecting the monarch ever since the 17th century, but how much do we know about them, really?

They’re part of British history

The British guard was established in 1660, and has since served and protected the reigning monarchs.

They need to be tall

Close combat was more prominent in the past, so height restrictions were more rigid. Traditionally they’d be 6' 2" (1,89 m) or over.

They need to pass an exam

Before being accepted, candidates must first pass the British Army Recruitment Battery test. The BARB is an aptitude test used to assess candidates' analytical and problem-solving skills.

They go through a demanding training program

Royal guards go through a combat training course that can last up to 30 weeks. The training ranges from firearms practice to martial skills and marching.

Remuneration package

The average salary for a member of the King’s Guard varies, depending on the rank. In 2022, it was around £20,400 (US$24,970) on average. An officer could earn an average of £28,556 ($30,571), whereas an infantryman's average salary was £18,932 ($23,158).

They are early birds

According to a guardsman, they are expected to be on parade at the barracks by 5:30 am. They then rehearse before heading out to do their job for the rest of the day.

They have to be resilient

Dealing with the public is no easy task, especially when they’re as exposed as they are and are an actual tourist attraction themselves.

Their hats are old, big, and heavy

The traditional bearskin hats worn by the King’s Guard are a badge of honor with a history. The soldiers took the bearskin from Napoleon's Grenadiers, so it does have a strong symbolic meaning. Later on, these were made from black bears mostly captured in Canada.

They wear their hats in a peculiar way

You may wonder why the hats are strapped under the guardsmen's lips rather than under the chin. Well, this is because their heads would usually be the first target in case of an infantry attack, so this way the hats would come off without injuring the soldier.

Their uniforms must be in top-notch condition at all times

"I'm always aware that people are looking at us closely and taking lots of photos, so I put a lot of work into looking after the uniform. Our red tunic, bearskin cap and bright white belt all need to be cleaned and polished, and our heavy black boots and brass buttons require constant care and attention," said guardsman Jack Davies of the Welsh Guards 1st Battalion.

They may faint

Standing still for a long time, coupled with excessive heat and possibly dehydration, can lead to these incidents. You may recall when a member of the royal guard collapsed by Queen Elizabeth II's coffin at Westminster Hall in 2022.

If you observe the guards long enough, you will see that they sometimes move. This is usually done by turning to the left, marching a few steps, and then turning around and going back to their post. This is essential so that blood circulates.

Hot weather can be a nightmare

Capes can be worn on the way to the palace when it’s raining, but there is nothing guardsmen can do with regards to the heat. Fluids are provided, but you won’t see members of the King’s Guard wiping off sweat–they just have to endure the discomfort.