Buckingham Palace (originally Buckingham House) is the residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. The palace has 775 rooms and hosts the largest private garden in London. The various rooms have different functions: 19 rooms are representive rooms, 52 are royal and guest rooms, 188 rooms are for the staff , 92 are offices and 78 are bathrooms. There are 760 windows and 1514 doors. The facade of the royal palace is 108 meters long on the front and the building has a depth of 120 meters (including the central quadrilateral ) for a height of 24 meters.
Beware of restrictions: access to Buckingham Palace requires compliance with certain safety rules such as, for example, not entering the halls of the attraction with a stroller. It can be registered at the entrance to be collected at the exit at the end of the tour. It is also forbidden to shoot videos and photographs for commercial purposes inside the State Rooms. During high season, and for safety reasons, you may wait longer than usual at the entrance due to the strict security checks: arm yourself with patience.
More than 50,000 people visit the Palace every year as guests of state banquets, lunches, dinners, receptions and garden parties. Her Majesty also holds weekly hearings with the Prime Minister and receives newly appointed foreign ambassadors at Buckingham Palace.
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Tickets for The State Rooms, Buckingham Palace
/5Take an outing fit for a queen
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Tickets for The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace
/5Immerse yourself in the history of royal transportation at the Royal Mews
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Best Buckingham Palace Tours
Tickets for Changing of the Guard: Guided Tour
/5Watch the famous Changing of the Guard on a journey through British tradition
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€21.19
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London: Changing of the Guard & Buckingham Palace Tour
/5Experience a cherished tradition of the British monarchy on a small group tour of London. Watch the Changing of the Guards of the Queen’s Household Cavalry. Then, see the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace on a rare day it’s open to the public.
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€78.12
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London: Changing of the Guard Walking Tour
/5Find the best viewpoints with a knowledgeable guide to capture every moment of this British tradition. March in step with the soldiers and learn the history of the guards, the royals and their palaces.
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Buckingham Palace: A Royal Residence
Buckingham Palace, located in the heart of London, England, stands as a symbol of the British monarchy and national pride. This historic palace not only serves as the residence of the monarchy but also as a venue for many official events and ceremonies. Tourists from around the world flock to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, which showcases the precision and tradition of the Queen’s Guard. Inside, the lavishly decorated State Rooms open to the public each summer, offer an intimate glimpse into the royal lifestyle, featuring exquisite works of art from the Royal Collection. With its majestic facade, stunning gardens, and rich history dating back to 1703, Buckingham Palace captivates visitors with its grandeur and serves as a pivotal point of interest for anyone exploring the United Kingdom’s capital.
Explore the State Rooms and Gardens
Within the gates of Buckingham Palace, the State Rooms are a primary attraction, each elegantly adorned with some of the most exquisite pieces from the Royal Collection. Visitors can experience the grandeur of rooms like the Throne Room and the Banquet Hall, where state banquets are held. During the summer opening, you can also explore the Palace Gardens, often described as a “walled oasis in the middle of London,” offering a serene escape with beautifully arranged flowers and a picturesque lake.
Witness the Changing of the Guard
One of the most visually striking and ceremonious attractions of Buckingham Palace is the Changing of the Guard. This ceremonial event features guards, known as the Queen’s Guard, dressed in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats, performing a precise ritual involving the handing over of responsibility from one guard to the next. It’s a vivid display of British pomp and pageantry that’s not to be missed. This ceremony takes place according to a schedule which typically includes mornings and is subject to weather conditions.
Explore the majesty of Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace, the iconic residence of the British monarchy, is a splendid destination suited for all ages, including kids, couples, and older visitors. As a pinnacle of British culture and history, the palace invites visitors to explore its majestic state rooms, lush gardens, and often, the ceremonial Changing of the Guard. From ornate, historical decor to exhibitions that delve deep into royal history, touring Buckingham Palace is an enriching experience that offers a unique glimpse into the royal lifestyle and British heritage.
Discover the best time to visit the royal residence
While Buckingham Palace is a year-round attraction, the best time to visit is during the summer when the State Rooms are open to the public, typically from late July to September. This period allows access to the most intimate corners of the royal residence. Furthermore, attending during the annual Summer Opening can provide a more comprehensive tour experience.
Special annual events
One of the year’s highlights is ‘Trooping the Colour’, a spectacular military parade held in June to celebrate the Queen’s official birthday, offering vibrant displays of ceremony and pageantry.
Accessibility and visitor information
Ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone, Buckingham Palace is committed to accessibility and safety while maintaining certain restrictions to preserve its sanctity and security.
Accessibility
Limitations
- Photography is not allowed inside the State Rooms.
- Large bags and backpacks must be checked in at the entrance.
- Security checks are mandatory for all visitors.
Notes to visitors
- Please wear comfortable walking shoes as tours can involve a lot of walking.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- Expect large crowds during tourist peak seasons, especially the summer.
Plan your visit to Buckingham Palace
Location details
The palace is centrally located within walking distance from several notable landmarks including the verdant St. James’s Park.
Address:
Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
Visiting hours
The palace is open to visitors from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM during the summer opening period. It remains closed to visitors outside these months except for various special tours.
Getting to Buckingham Palace
Reaching Buckingham Palace is convenient from various key locations around London using multiple modes of transport.
By Car
Driving to the palace is facilitated by several nearby parking areas, though traffic can be dense during peak tourist seasons.
Route | Distance | Travel time |
---|---|---|
From Heathrow Airport | 15 miles (24 km) | 45 minutes |
From King’s Cross | 3 miles (5 km) | 20 minutes |
From Westminster | 1 mile (1.6 km) | 10 minutes |
By Public Transport
London’s extensive bus and underground network provides an efficient travel option without the worry of parking. The palace is a short walk from Victoria, Green Park, and St. James’s Park stations.
By Bus
Buses regularly run from major parts of the city directly to stops near the palace.
Nearby Attractions
Maximize your visit to Buckingham Palace by exploring nearby attractions:
- Westminster Abbey – 0.8 miles (1.3 km)
- Big Ben – 0.8 miles (1.3 km)
- The Houses of Parliament – 0.8 miles (1.3 km)
- The National Gallery – 1.2 miles (1.9 km)
- Tate Britain – 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
- Lambeth Palace – 2 miles (3.2 km)
- St Paul’s Cathedral – 2.5 miles (4 km)
- The Shard – 3.1 miles (5 km)
- Tower of London – 3.8 miles (6.1 km)
- Tower Bridge – 4 miles (6.4 km)
- The British Museum – 2 miles (3.2 km)
- Leicester Square – 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Common questions
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What is the history of Buckingham Palace?
Are there any unique artifacts or art pieces in Buckingham Palace?
How many rooms are there in Buckingham Palace?
Has Buckingham Palace ever been open to the public?
What is the architectural style of Buckingham Palace?
Does Buckingham Palace host any traditional events?
What is the role of Buckingham Palace during state visits?
How extensive are the Buckingham Palace gardens?
Is photography allowed inside Buckingham Palace?
Is Buckingham Palace in London worth visiting?
For those captivated by history and architecture, Buckingham Palace in London presents a remarkable encounter. It enables tourists to explore the ceremonial heart of British royalty. This iconic landmark offers exquisite State Rooms, an elegant Garden, and the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. However, it’s important to note that the attraction can be extremely crowded, potentially diluting the personal experience of the visit.
While the palace’s historical significance and architectural grandeur are indisputable, those seeking a more tranquil and intimate experience might explore other less crowded historical sites nearby. Places such as the Queen’s Gallery or St. James’s Park offer rich history and beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Overall, Buckingham Palace is worth visiting, but it is beneficial to be prepared for the potential influx of tourists, especially during peak seasons.