Your Complete Guide to Visiting Buckingham Palace in London

Welcome to Buckingham Palace, the London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch. With its magnificent architecture, lavish interiors, and centuries of royal history, this palace is a must-see for anyone visiting the UK capital.
 

As your tour guide, I’ll take you through the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, from its storied past and Changing of the Guard ceremony to how to visit the State Rooms and experience true royal elegance.

📍 Where Is Buckingham Palace?

Location: Westminster, Central London
Address: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
Nearby Landmarks: Green Park, St. James’s Park, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben

🕰️ Quick History of Buckingham Palace

1703 – Originally built as Buckingham House for the Duke of Buckingham

1761 – Acquired by King George III as a private residence

1837 – Became the official royal palace under Queen Victoria

Today – Functions as the monarch’s residence, ceremonial hub, and state event venue

Buckingham Palace is not just a building—it's the symbol of British monarchy, hosting royal receptions, investitures, state banquets, and official engagements.

🏰 Key Highlights of Buckingham Palace

1. The State Rooms (Open to the Public in Summer)

There are 775 rooms in Buckingham Palace, including 19 lavish State Rooms, which are open for public tours in July–September when the monarch is not in residence.

Inside, you'll find:

The Throne Room – Site of royal portraits and official photos

The Ballroom – For state banquets and receptions

The Grand Staircase – An iconic architectural feature

The White Drawing Room – Exquisite chandeliers and décor

Royal art collection – Including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer

2. The Royal Mews

Home to royal carriages, horses, and ceremonial vehicles like:

The Gold State Coach, used during coronations

The Diamond Jubilee State Coach

Working stables and historic carriages

3. The Queen’s Gallery

A public art gallery displaying changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection.

4. The Palace Gardens

The largest private garden in London, filled with:

A lake

Rose gardens

Rare plant species

The famous garden parties hosted by the monarch

🎖️ Changing of the Guard Ceremony

The Changing of the Guard is one of London's most iconic traditions. Dressed in red tunics and bearskin hats, the King’s Guard changes shift in a dazzling display of precision and pageantry.

🕓 Timings:

Most days at 11:00 AM (check the official schedule)

Arrive by 10:15 AM for a good view

Lasts about 45 minutes

📍 Where to Watch:

In front of Buckingham Palace gates

Victoria Memorial – For a panoramic view

The Mall or St. James’s Palace

💡 Tip:

The ceremony is free and draws huge crowds—get there early!

🧭 How to Visit Buckingham Palace

👑 When Can You Visit?

The State Rooms are open to the public during:

July to September (dates vary each year)

Tours last 2–2.5 hours

Audio guides are available in multiple languages

The Queen’s Gallery & Royal Mews are open year-round with separate admission

💵 Ticket Prices (2025 Estimates)

💡 Tip: Book tickets online in advance through the Royal Collection Trust website.

🚆 How to Get There

🚇 By Underground:

Green Park Station (Victoria, Piccadilly, Jubilee lines) – 5 min walk

St. James’s Park Station – 7 min walk

Victoria Station – 10 min walk

🚍 By Bus:

Routes 11, 211, C1, and C10 stop nearby

🚶 By Foot:

Walkable from Westminster, Trafalgar Square, and Hyde Park

📷 Best Photo Spots

Front gates of the palace – Classic photo with the guards

Victoria Memorial – Great for wide shots

The Mall – Royal flags line the avenue

St. James’s Park – Palace framed with flowers and lake

Garden views – If touring in summer

📅 Best Time to Visit

Summer (July–September) – For interior tours of the State Rooms

Spring/Autumn – Pleasant weather, good for outdoor views and the Changing of the Guard

Avoid peak mid-day weekends for crowds

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly Activities

Buckingham Palace is perfect for families:

Audio guides for kids

Treasure hunts and interactive displays

Changing of the Guard is a hit with children

Free admission under 5 years old

♿ Accessibility Info

Step-free access via the Ambassadors Entrance

Wheelchair hire available

Accessible restrooms and seating

Free admission for one accompanying carer

🏨 Where to Stay Nearby

Luxury:

The Ritz London – Iconic luxury across from Green Park

Corinthia London – 5-star with riverside views

Mid-Range:

The Clermont Victoria – Stylish and close to Buckingham Palace

The Nadler Victoria – Modern hotel steps from the Palace

Budget:

Z Hotel Victoria – Compact and affordable

easyHotel Victoria – No-frills but great location

🍽️ Nearby Restaurants & Cafés

The Goring Dining Room – Fine British cuisine

The English Rose Café – Affordable afternoon tea

The Ivy Victoria – Elegant meals near the palace

Pret a Manger & Café Nero – Quick bites and coffee

🛍️ Souvenirs & Gifts

Royal Collection Gift Shop (on-site and online)

Buy:

China teacups

Royal-themed gifts

Commemorative coins

Books and apparel

📚 Interesting Facts About Buckingham Palace

Has 775 rooms, including 52 royal and guest bedrooms

Over 40,000 light bulbs inside the palace

Home to the largest private garden in London

Flag signals:

Royal Standard = Monarch is present

Union Jack = Monarch is away

📌 Nearby Attractions

Westminster Abbey – Coronation church of British monarchs

Big Ben & Parliament – Just a 10-min walk away

St. James’s Park – One of London’s most beautiful green spaces

Churchill War Rooms – Fascinating underground museum

Hyde Park – Relax and stroll by the Serpentine lake

🧳 Final Thoughts: Why Visit Buckingham Palace?

Whether you're fascinated by royalty, architecture, or British history, Buckingham Palace offers a majestic glimpse into the heart of the monarchy. From the iconic Changing of the Guard to exclusive State Room tours, every visit is filled with tradition, elegance, and unforgettable experiences.

Include Buckingham Palace in your London itinerary—you’ll walk away feeling a little more royal yourself!