King's Guard yells at tourist for slapping horse, but the horse may have started it

It's become a semi-common occurrence that a member of the King's Guard is left with no choice but to yell at a tourist who behaves inappropriately around them.

This time, the lines are a little blurred when it comes to who or what is at fault.

In a video which has been shared on TikTok @bazzzyx2, we see the King's Guard at the entrance to Whitehall in London. A crowd of tourists are taking turns standing next to the guard and horse for photos.

The woman, dressed in a white and navy jacket and jeans, steps up for her turn only for the horse to start nuzzling her.

At first she tolerates it before lightly slapping the horse on the nose.

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Determined to be petted, the horse attempts to nuzzle the woman again and she lightly slaps it a further two times.

It is a well-established rule that members of the public are not to touch members of the King's Guard or their horses who have been appointed to protect His Majesty.

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The King's Guard eventually yells loudly at the woman to "step away." Startled, she walks away from the horse. Next we see another member of the King's Guard march to the scene on foot where has a brief conversation with the mounted guard.

The guard on foot then marches away.

Next we see two police officers take up positions in front of the mounted King's Guard to ensure tourists keep a safe distance away.

The video has been viewed 1.1 million times with some joking that the horse started it, with one TikToker commenting: "Cheeky little mare."

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The operator of the TikTok account points out in the comments section that there is a clear sign at Whitehall that reads: "Beware horse may kick or bite, thank you."

"It worries me people have forgotten what a guard is," one TikToker comments.

Another pointed out that tourists should be respected for the funds they provide for the operation of such services as the King's Guard.

"Everyone says they aren't tourist attractions," they said. "True, but the amount of money they bring in for this country they are essentially are now."

"Good horse," another said.

Another comments: "People who aren't British don't understand the disrespect in this video."

"When are people gonna realise the guards look dumb but don't mess around," another stated.

Another said: "I am sorry but she did not slap the horse. This is complete overreaction by the guards. Learn to control your horse from brushing the girl."

Other suggested mounted guards be given a cordoned off area, which may hamper their ability to protect the monarch if needed.