Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in London, is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Built in 1703 and expanded over the centuries, it has 775 rooms, including state rooms, private apartments, and offices. The palace is not only a royal residence but also a working building where important state events and ceremonies take place, such as state banquets and the annual Trooping the Colour.
Top Highlights
- State Rooms: During the summer months, 19 of the palace’s State Rooms are open to the public. These rooms are lavishly decorated with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens, fine English and French furniture, and exquisite porcelain.
- The Royal Mews: Home to the royal collection of historic coaches and carriages, including the Gold State Coach used for coronations. You can also see the working stables and some of the horses used for ceremonial occasions.
- The Queen’s Gallery: An art gallery on the palace grounds that exhibits works from the Royal Collection. The exhibitions change regularly and often feature some of the most significant pieces of art collected by the royal family over centuries.
- The Changing of the Guard: A must-see ceremony that takes place outside the palace. The guards, dressed in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats, march from Wellington Barracks to the palace accompanied by a military band. The ceremony usually occurs at 11:00 AM on specific days, but it’s best to check the schedule in advance.
- The Gardens: The vast gardens behind the palace are also open to visitors during the summer. These include a lake, a rose garden, and a tennis court where King George VI and Fred Perry played in the 1930s.
Tips for Visiting Buckingham Palace
- Book in Advance: Tickets to the State Rooms and other parts of the palace can sell out quickly, especially in summer. Book online in advance to secure your spot.
- Arrive Early: For the Changing of the Guard, arrive at least 30 minutes early to get a good viewing spot. The area outside the palace can get very crowded.
- Plan for Security: Like all major attractions, security is tight. Arrive with time to spare and be prepared for bag checks.
- Photography: Photography is not allowed inside the State Rooms but is permitted in the gardens and exterior areas. Capture the beauty of the palace from outside, especially the front gates and the Victoria Memorial.
- Combine with Nearby Attractions: Buckingham Palace is centrally located, so it’s easy to combine your visit with nearby attractions like St. James’s Park, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.
- Visit The Queen’s Gallery and Royal Mews: These attractions are open year-round and are less crowded than the State Rooms, offering a quieter experience of royal life.
- Audio Guides: The palace offers free audio guides with your ticket. These are informative and provide context on the rooms and items you’ll see.
- Check for Special Exhibitions: The Queen’s Gallery often hosts special exhibitions that are worth exploring. These exhibitions change regularly and often include items not usually on public display.
- Shop for Souvenirs: The palace has a well-stocked gift shop with exclusive royal-themed souvenirs. These can be a great way to remember your visit.
- Dress Comfortably: There’s a lot of walking involved, especially if you plan to explore the gardens, so wear comfortable shoes.
Visiting Buckingham Palace offers a unique glimpse into the life of the British monarchy and is a highlight of any trip to London.
