A musical extravaganza that takes place on Horse Guards Parade annually in June for 2 nights only.  In 2012 it will be on the 13th-14th June.

Beating the retreat is a traditional English ceremony that was used to call patrolling troops back to the castle in the 16th Century.  Today it involves marching bands and cannons firing.  It features The Massed Bands of the Footguards, The Household Cavalry Mounted Band, The Massed Pipes and Drums of the Household Division, The Massed Corps of Drums for the Household Division, The Royal Horse Artillery and a guest band.  It shows off British Military music at its best along with demonstrating the horsemanship skills of the Household Cavalry.

 It opens with the Royal Horse Artillery firing canons followed by a fanfare played by the state trumpters mounted on horseback.  The different bands then do a number of displays before coming together for the finale.  There is also a salute to a member of the Royal Family. 

 Wrap up warm as this is an evening event.  It is a ticketed event so book early.  If you enjoy military music, and want to see something very British this is the thing to see.