What is it really like to serve in the Household Cavalry?

If you close your eyes and think of the Household Cavalry your head will be filled with images of red and gold, the iconic horses and the epic ceremonial parades. The parades which attract thousands of spectators to the streets of London throughout the year.

But behind every parade is a team of dedicated soldiers, all with specialist trades and unique Army careers.

From working with animals and learning specialist trades to operating armoured vehicles and supporting military operations, the Household Cavalry has a lot to offer.

In our latest video, serving soldiers share what life in the Household Cavalry is really like and why they chose one of the British Army's most distinctive regiments.

Do you need horse riding experience to join?

No, you don’t. Soldiers arrive with a wide range of backgrounds. Some have spent years around horses, while others have never worked with one before.

"I chose this cap badge because I have always worked with horses. I love them, they're my passion."

You will receive full training if you’re an experienced rider or a complete beginner. What matters most is a passion and willingness to learn.

What does a typical working day look like?

For those in the mounted regiment every day involves caring for the welfare, fitness and wellbeing of your horse.

“I say hello to my horse every morning…Without fail, I will come in and give him an apple or a carrot.”

Throughout the day you might find yourself grooming horses and preparing kit for ceremonial duties or maintaining equipment and developing military skills. Soldiers quickly learn the importance of discipline, attention to detail and teamwork.

Qualifications and specialist skills you can gain

A career in the Household Cavalry is about much more than ceremonial duties.

The Regiment offers opportunities to gain valuable qualifications and develop specialist skills that can support your Army career and future ambitions.

Some soldiers choose to specialise as:

• Farriers - Soldiers learn how to fit horseshoes, work with heated steel and understand the movement and health of horses. This requires technical knowledge, craftmanship and the ability to work under pressure.

• Riding instructors - Soldiers can gain recognised British Horse Society (BHS) qualifications and develop professional coaching skills while helping others improve their riding ability.

• Saddlers - Our saddlers learn specialist leatherworking techniques, creating and maintaining equipment used by both soldiers and horses.

• Tailors - The Tailors play a vital role in maintaining the Regiment's world-renowned appearance, learning specialist garment repair and alteration skills.

Two sides to the Household Cavalry

Whether you're passionate about horses, interested in gaining specialist qualifications or looking for a challenge, the Household Cavalry might be the regiment for you.