Buckingham Palace stands as an iconic symbol of the British monarchy and a must-visit destination for tourists in London. Situated in the City of Westminster, this magnificent edifice has served as the official London residence of the United Kingdom’s sovereigns since 1837. The palace boasts 775 rooms, including 19 staterooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms, making it a truly grand establishment.
Originally built in 1703 as Buckingham House for the Duke of Buckingham, the structure was acquired by King George III in 1761 and underwent extensive renovations to transform it into the palace we know today. The building’s striking façade, designed by architect John Nash, features the famous balcony where the Royal Family makes public appearances during significant events and celebrations.
Visitors to Buckingham Palace can witness the time-honoured Changing of the Guard ceremony, a colourful spectacle of British pageantry that typically takes place daily during summer and every other day during winter. The State Rooms, open to the public during select months of the year, offer a glimpse into the opulent interiors adorned with priceless works of art from the Royal Collection, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto.
The palace grounds encompass nearly 40 acres of meticulously maintained gardens, featuring a magnificent lake and over 350 species of wildflowers. These verdant spaces provide a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city and serve as the venue for the Queen’s Garden Parties, an annual tradition that recognises individuals for their contributions to public service.
Buckingham Palace continues to play a vital role in state affairs, hosting diplomatic receptions, state banquets, and official visits from foreign dignitaries. Its enduring presence in the heart of London offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur and historical significance of the British monarchy firsthand.
Buckingham Palace Opening Times
Buckingham Palace’s visiting hours are subject to change due to official events and royal ceremonies. Whilst the palace exterior can be viewed year-round, access to the State Rooms is limited to specific months, typically during the summer.
The Changing of the Guard, officially known as Guard Mounting, is a free spectacle that usually occurs at 11:00 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. However, this schedule may vary, so checking the official Household Division website is advised. The ceremony, lasting about 45 minutes, sees a New Guard replacing the Old Guard, both drawn from the regiments of Foot Guards.
This time-honoured tradition, one of the oldest associated with Buckingham Palace, draws large crowds. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a prime viewing position. The pageantry on display, with guards in their distinctive red tunics and bearskin hats, offers a quintessentially British experience and a glimpse into royal customs.
Buckingham Palace Prices
Guided tours of Buckingham Palace offer an insight into the British monarchy’s official residence. Options include standard tours of the State Rooms, exclusive evening tours, garden tours, and family-friendly experiences. These tours provide expert commentary on the palace’s history, architecture, and the Royal Collection.
The State Rooms are open to the public daily in July and August, and from Thursday to Monday in September. The Royal Mews, King’s Gallery, and Palace Gardens can also be visited. Tickets for various areas can be purchased online.
Tours cater to different interests and schedules, ranging from comprehensive overviews to specialised experiences. Prices start from £32 for adults and £16 for children, with infants admitted free. Each tour type offers unique benefits, whether it’s the intimacy of an evening tour or the interactive elements of a family tour.
For more information on tickets and times, visit the Buckingham Palace website for more information.
How To Get To Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is easily accessible via London’s excellent public transport network. The nearest Underground stations are Victoria, Green Park, and St. James’s Park, all within a 10-minute walk. Hyde Park Corner is also close by, whilst Westminster station is about a 15-minute stroll away.
For those preferring buses, routes 11, 211, C1 and C10 stop on Buckingham Palace Road, offering convenient access to the palace grounds. Visitors arriving by coach will find Victoria Coach Station just a 10-minute walk from the palace.
The central location of Buckingham Palace makes it a straightforward destination for tourists using any mode of transport, ensuring a hassle-free journey to this iconic royal residence.
Nearby Attractions
Buckingham Palace is situated in the heart of London and is surrounded by numerous other splendid attractions that are within walking distance.
St James’s Park
St James’s Park is a royal park that boasts a picturesque lake, home to a variety of waterfowl, including the park’s famous pelicans. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Buckingham Palace from the Blue Bridge, stroll along tree-lined paths, or relax on manicured lawns. The park’s flower beds provide a vibrant display throughout the year, making it a delightful spot for picnics and leisurely walks.
St James’s Palace
St James’s Palace is one of London’s oldest royal palaces, built in the 1530s by Henry VIII. While not open to the public, its Tudor gatehouse and red-brick façade are impressive sights from the street. The palace is still a working royal building, serving as the official residence of several members of the royal family. It’s also where important royal ceremonies take place, like the accession of a new monarch. Visitors can see the Changing of the Guard ceremony here on certain days, offering a less crowded alternative to Buckingham Palace.
Cabinet War Rooms
The Cabinet War Rooms, now part of the Churchill War Rooms museum, offer a fascinating glimpse into Britain’s command centre during World War II. Located underground, these secret bunkers were where Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his staff planned wartime strategy. Visitors can explore the preserved rooms, including the Map Room and Churchill’s bedroom, which remain largely as they were left in 1945. The museum features interactive displays and personal artefacts, providing a vivid insight into life during the war and Churchill’s leadership.
Green Park
Green Park is a peaceful green space nestled between St James’s Park and Hyde Park. Known for its mature trees and tranquil atmosphere, it offers a welcome respite from the bustle of central London. Unlike other royal parks, Green Park lacks formal flowerbeds, instead featuring expanses of grassland dotted with clusters of trees. In spring, the park comes alive with naturalised daffodils, creating a sea of yellow. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics on the lawns, or simply relax on one of the many deck chairs available for hire. The park also serves as a picturesque route between Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly, making it a favourite among both locals and tourists seeking a moment of calm in the city centre.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park, one of London’s largest royal parks, offers a diverse array of attractions and activities. This expansive green space features the Serpentine Lake, where visitors can enjoy boating or swimming in the lido. The park is home to various memorials, including the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain. Speakers’ Corner, a historic site for public debates, showcases London’s tradition of free speech. Hyde Park hosts numerous events throughout the year, from summer concerts to the Winter Wonderland festive fair. Visitors can also enjoy horse riding, cycling, or simply strolling through its tree-lined paths.