Buckingham Palace: The Iconic Royal Residence of London
Explore the majestic official residence of the British monarch, from lavish State Rooms to the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Buckingham Palace, located in London SW1A 1AA, is the official residence of His Majesty The King and a symbol of the British monarchy. Open to the public during the summer months, visitors can tour the lavishly decorated State Rooms, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and witness the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. With 775 rooms and over 400 staff, the palace blends historic grandeur with living tradition, making it a must-see cultural landmark and tourist attraction.
A brief summary to Buckingham Palace
- London, SW1A 1AA, GB
- +443031237300
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance for the summer opening (July to September) to secure entry and avoid disappointment.
- Arrive early to get a prime spot for the Changing of the Guard ceremony, held at 11:00 a.m. on selected days.
- Photography is not allowed inside the palace but is permitted in the gardens—bring a camera for the outdoor views.
- Combine your visit with the Royal Mews and the Queen’s Gallery for a fuller royal experience.
- Enjoy refreshments at the Garden Café after your tour to relax and soak in the palace surroundings.
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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London Underground
Take the Victoria Line to Green Park Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes through St James's Park to reach Buckingham Palace. The journey from central London typically takes 20-30 minutes with frequent service. No additional cost beyond standard tube fare applies.
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Bus
Use London bus routes 11, 211, or 148, which stop near Buckingham Palace. The bus ride from central London takes around 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Contactless payment or Oyster cards are accepted.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Buckingham Palace typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £10-£20. Note that parking near the palace is restricted and not recommended.
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Walking
If staying nearby, a pleasant 20-30 minute walk through central London parks and streets can bring you to Buckingham Palace. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
Buckingham Palace location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Buckingham Palace
Historical Foundations and Royal Significance
Originally built in 1703 as a large townhouse for the Duke of Buckingham, the building that is now Buckingham Palace was acquired by King George III in 1761 for Queen Charlotte and became known as the Queen’s House. Over the centuries, it evolved into the grand palace that serves as the official London residence of the reigning monarch. With 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms used for official entertaining, it remains one of the few working royal palaces globally, symbolizing the continuity and pageantry of the British monarchy.The Summer Opening and Visitor Experience
Each year from July to September, Buckingham Palace opens its doors to the public for approximately 10 weeks. Visitors can explore the State Rooms, richly decorated with masterpieces by artists like Canaletto and Van Dyck, as well as sculptures by Canova. The tour typically takes between two and three hours and includes access to the palace gardens, where photography is permitted. The Throne Room, often used for royal ceremonies and portraits, and the White Drawing Room, a private reception space, are among the highlights. Newly installed portraits of King Charles III and Queen Camilla add a contemporary touch to the historic interiors.Changing of the Guard: A Timeless Ceremony
Outside the palace, the Changing of the Guard ceremony is a celebrated tradition attracting many spectators. Taking place at 11:00 a.m. on select days, the ceremony features a formal handover of responsibilities between the old and new guards, accompanied by military music and precision drill. The event is free to watch, with prime viewing spots near the eastern gates of the palace. It is a vivid display of British pageantry and discipline, enriching the visitor experience with a sense of living history.Architecture and Surrounding Environment
The palace’s architecture reflects a blend of neoclassical and Victorian styles, marked by its iconic façade and the grand balcony overlooking The Mall. The surrounding gardens provide a tranquil green space in the heart of London, featuring a lake and wooded areas. Visitors exit through the gardens, enjoying views of the palace’s west front and the serene landscape, which contrasts with the bustling city nearby.Royal Mews and The Queen’s Gallery
Adjacent to the palace, the Royal Mews houses the royal family’s state vehicles, including horse-drawn carriages and motor cars used in ceremonial processions. The Queen’s Gallery exhibits rotating masterpieces from the Royal Collection, offering additional insight into the monarchy’s art patronage. Combined tickets are available for these attractions, enhancing the overall royal day out.Visitor Amenities and Practical Information
Visitors can find a café in the garden area serving refreshments such as tea, coffee, cakes, and sandwiches, providing a restful spot after the tour. Photography is prohibited inside the State Rooms but allowed in the gardens. Tickets must be booked in advance for the summer opening, with various options including standard admission and exclusive evening tours. Children under five enter free, and family discounts are available. The palace is well-staffed, with around 400 employees ensuring a smooth visitor experience and palace operations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Houses
0.3 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
St. James's Palace
0.5 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.5 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Little Ben Clock
0.5 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Pickering Pl
0.6 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Wellington Arch
0.6 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
0.6 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.
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.
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
0.7 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
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.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.7 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
St James's Square
0.8 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.8 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
Carlton Gardens
0.8 km
Elegant Regency enclave in London’s St James’s, famed for WWII Free French HQ and serene historic gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Queen Victoria Memorial
0.1 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with artistic symbolism at the heart of London’s royal landscape.
The State Rooms
0.1 km
Step inside Buckingham Palace’s magnificent State Rooms to experience the grandeur and history of the British monarchy’s ceremonial heart.
Canada Gate
0.1 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.
Canada Memorial
0.2 km
A serene and symbolic tribute in Green Park honoring Canadian soldiers’ sacrifices and the enduring bond with the United Kingdom.
The King's Gallery, Buckingham Palace
0.2 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.
Constitution Hill
0.2 km
A historic royal route in London linking Hyde Park Corner with Buckingham Palace, rich in heritage and scenic charm.
The Green Park
0.3 km
A tranquil Royal Park in central London offering peaceful lawns, historic memorials, and scenic views near Buckingham Palace.
The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace
0.3 km
Discover the historic working stables and royal coaches that have carried British monarchs for centuries at The Royal Mews.
Lancaster House
0.3 km
Lancaster House: London’s neoclassical masterpiece blending royal history, political heritage, and elegant government hospitality near Buckingham Palace.
Clarence House
0.4 km
Explore Clarence House, the historic London residence of King Charles III, showcasing royal heritage, exquisite art, and elegant Regency architecture.
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.
Spencer House
0.4 km
Step into Spencer House, a stunning 18th-century London mansion showcasing neoclassical elegance, aristocratic history, and exquisite interiors.
The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)
0.4 km
A modernist military chapel in London, blending solemn remembrance with rich history and striking architecture.
Cardinal Place
0.5 km
Urban shopping oasis blending retail buzz, rooftop serenity, and innovative design over London's Underground in vibrant Victoria.
Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk
0.5 km
A serene 7-mile circular walk through London's Royal Parks, honoring Princess Diana’s life, legacy, and connection to iconic royal landmarks.
Essential places to dine
The English Grill
0.4 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
0.5 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Great British Restaurant
0.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.5 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
HIDE
0.6 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.6 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.6 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Caxton Grill
0.6 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Golden Lion
0.6 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
The Pem
0.7 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Quaglino's
0.7 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
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
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
John Lobb St. James
0.6 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
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.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.7 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Burlington Arcade
0.8 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Fortnum & Mason
0.8 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Floris London
0.8 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Prestat Chocolates
0.8 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.8 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Princes Arcade
0.9 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Charbonnel et Walker
0.9 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.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.9 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Jermyn St
0.9 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The New York Bar
0.4 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Bbar
0.4 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
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.8 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
0.9 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
1.1 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Spy Bar
1.2 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Old Shades
1.2 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Disrepute - Soho
1.2 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
1.2 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
The Thin White Duke
1.3 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tabu London
0.7 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
0.8 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.8 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
The Cuckoo Club
1.0 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
TSQ Club
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
1.2 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
1.2 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Penthouse London
1.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.4 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.
Sophisticats Soho
1.4 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Box Soho
1.4 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.4 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.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.4 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Classic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Myth & Legends
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly