The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace
Step inside Buckingham Palace’s magnificent State Rooms to experience the grandeur and history of the British monarchy’s ceremonial heart.
The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace offer a rare glimpse into the ceremonial heart of the British monarchy. Open to the public during summer months, these 19 lavishly furnished rooms showcase exquisite artworks, opulent furnishings, and grand spaces used for official events and royal receptions. Visitors can admire masterpieces by Rembrandt and Rubens, explore the iconic Throne Room and Ballroom, and experience the grandeur of a working royal palace in central London.
A brief summary to The State Rooms
- Buckingham Gate, London, SW1A 1AA, GB
- +443031237300
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for the summer opening between July and September to secure your preferred entry time.
- Plan at least two to three hours to fully explore the State Rooms and gardens.
- Entry includes access to the gardens, but free roaming is not permitted; enjoy the scenic lake and lawn views.
- Visit the King's Gallery nearby for rotating exhibitions of masterpieces from the Royal Collection.
- Arrive no later than 15 minutes before your ticket time to allow smooth entry and avoid missing your slot.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Green Park Station (Piccadilly, Jubilee, and Victoria lines), approximately a 10 to 15-minute walk to Buckingham Palace. Tickets cost £2.50 to £6.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Buckingham Palace, including routes 11, 211, and 148. Travel time varies from 15 to 30 minutes from central London, with a single fare around £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London takes approximately 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £10 to £20.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central London, walking to Buckingham Palace is feasible, taking 20 to 40 minutes on mostly flat, paved routes. The area is wheelchair accessible with gentle gradients.
The State Rooms location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The State Rooms
Royal Grandeur and Historical Legacy
The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are the epitome of British royal opulence, serving as the setting for state banquets, official ceremonies, and receptions. Their history traces back to the early 19th century when King George IV transformed Buckingham House into a grand palace, guided by architect John Nash’s vision of a majestic royal residence. Today, the palace contains 775 rooms, of which 19 are the State Rooms, richly decorated and preserved to reflect centuries of monarchy traditions.Architectural Splendor and Artistic Treasures
These rooms feature stunning architectural details such as gilded ceilings, grand chandeliers, and crimson draperies. The Picture Gallery, stretching over 47 meters, houses masterpieces by renowned artists including Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto. The Ballroom, the largest room in the palace, impresses with its vast size and lavish décor, hosting state banquets and royal celebrations. The Throne Room, with its iconic red and gold décor and twin thrones, is a focal point for court ceremonies and official portraits.Intimate Spaces and Royal Functions
Among the more intimate rooms, the White Drawing Room stands out for its elegance and use by the Queen for small gatherings and audiences. The Music Room, known for its beautifully painted ceiling, hosts royal concerts and has been the site of royal christenings. Each room offers a unique glimpse into the private and public lives of the royal family.Visitor Experience and Seasonal Access
The State Rooms open to visitors during the summer months, typically from July to late September. Visitors begin their tour at the Grand Entrance, reserved for diplomats and ambassadors, and proceed at their own pace through the rooms. The visit includes access to the palace gardens, featuring scenic views of the lawn and lake, though free roaming is restricted. The tour usually takes between two to three hours.Significance and Contemporary Use
Buckingham Palace remains a working royal residence, with the King often in residence when the Royal Standard flies above. The State Rooms continue to host significant events such as investitures, diplomatic receptions, and state banquets, maintaining their role at the center of British ceremonial life. The palace’s blend of historic grandeur and contemporary function offers visitors an immersive royal experience.Art Exhibitions and Additional Attractions
During the summer opening, special exhibitions from the Royal Collection are displayed within the palace, complementing the permanent treasures. Nearby, the King's Gallery showcases rotating exhibitions of old master paintings and decorative arts. Though the Royal Mews, home to the royal carriages including the Gold State Coach, is temporarily closed until March 2025, it remains a highlight for many royal enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Houses
0.2 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
Little Ben Clock
0.4 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
St. James's Palace
0.6 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Wellington Arch
0.6 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.7 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
0.7 km
A striking WWI memorial at Hyde Park Corner, blending classical art and the harsh realities of mechanized warfare to honor the Machine Gun Corps’ sacrifice.
Pickering Pl
0.7 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.7 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Royal Artillery Memorial
0.7 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Cockpit Steps
0.7 km
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.8 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.8 km
Explore the Charles De Gaulle Statue in London, a monument celebrating Franco-British relations and the legacy of a legendary leader amidst serene gardens.
Statue of Achilles
0.8 km
Discover Apsley House, a stunning monument in London, showcasing the art and history of the Duke of Wellington in an exquisite setting.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.9 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
St James's Square
0.9 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
Unmissable attractions to see
The King's Gallery, Buckingham Palace
0.1 km
Explore centuries of royal art and history in the elegant King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace, home to the Royal Collection’s rotating masterpieces.
Buckingham Palace
0.1 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless traditions of Buckingham Palace, the iconic heart of British royalty in London.
The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace
0.2 km
Discover the historic working stables and royal coaches that have carried British monarchs for centuries at The Royal Mews.
Queen Victoria Memorial
0.2 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with artistic symbolism at the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Canada Gate
0.3 km
Discover the elegance and historical significance of Canada Gate, a stunning landmark in London's Green Park, celebrating the bond between Canada and the UK.
Constitution Hill
0.3 km
A historic royal route in London linking Hyde Park Corner with Buckingham Palace, rich in heritage and scenic charm.
Canada Memorial
0.3 km
A serene and symbolic tribute in Green Park honoring Canadian soldiers’ sacrifices and the enduring bond with the United Kingdom.
Cardinal Place
0.4 km
Urban shopping oasis blending retail buzz, rooftop serenity, and innovative design over London's Underground in vibrant Victoria.
The Green Park
0.4 km
A tranquil Royal Park in central London offering peaceful lawns, historic memorials, and scenic views near Buckingham Palace.
The Guards Museum
0.4 km
Explore centuries of British military history through the iconic Foot Guards’ uniforms, artifacts, and stories at Wellington Barracks’ Guards Museum.
Lancaster House
0.4 km
Lancaster House: London’s neoclassical masterpiece blending royal history, political heritage, and elegant government hospitality near Buckingham Palace.
The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)
0.5 km
A modernist military chapel in London, blending solemn remembrance with rich history and striking architecture.
Clarence House
0.5 km
Explore Clarence House, the historic London residence of King Charles III, showcasing royal heritage, exquisite art, and elegant Regency architecture.
Apollo Victoria Theatre
0.5 km
Experience the magic of West End theatre at Apollo Victoria, home to the spectacular musical Wicked and a landmark of London’s performing arts scene.
Commonwealth Memorial Gates
0.5 km
Explore the Commonwealth Memorial Gates in London, a stunning tribute to the bravery of soldiers from various nations during World Wars I and II.
Essential places to dine
The English Grill
0.2 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
0.4 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.5 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Great British Restaurant
0.6 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Caxton Grill
0.6 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.7 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
HIDE
0.7 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
The Pem
0.7 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.7 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Golden Lion
0.7 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Quaglino's
0.8 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
The Grenadier
0.9 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Ma La Sichuan
0.9 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Queen's Shop
0.1 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Buckingham Palace Shop
0.2 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
Cool Britannia
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
0.6 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
John Lobb St. James
0.7 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.8 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.9 km
Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Burlington Arcade
0.9 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Fortnum & Mason
0.9 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Floris London
0.9 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Prestat Chocolates
1.0 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
1.0 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Westminster Abbey Shop
1.0 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Princes Arcade
1.0 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Charbonnel et Walker
1.0 km
Britain’s first luxury chocolatier since 1875, nestled in Mayfair’s Royal Arcade – where tradition, truffles and royal patronage meet in every exquisite box.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The New York Bar
0.2 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Bbar
0.2 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
Adam & Eve
0.5 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
All Bar One Victoria
0.5 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
Below
0.7 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Blue Boar Pub
0.7 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Two Chairmen
0.7 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Westminster Arms
0.9 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
1.0 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
1.2 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Spy Bar
1.3 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Old Shades
1.3 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
1.3 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
Disrepute - Soho
1.4 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
All Bar One Leicester Square
1.4 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tabu London
0.8 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Scotch of St James
0.9 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.9 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
The Cuckoo Club
1.1 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
TSQ Club
1.2 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Tiger Tiger London
1.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
1.3 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
1.3 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
1.4 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Penthouse London
1.4 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.5 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Sophisticats Soho
1.5 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.5 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Box Soho
1.5 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.5 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly