Buckingham Palace

The official London residence of the British monarch, where centuries of royal tradition meet architectural grandeur.

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Buckingham Palace

The official London residence of His Majesty The King, Buckingham Palace stands as one of the world's most iconic royal palaces. This working royal residence opens its lavishly furnished State Rooms to visitors during summer months, offering a rare glimpse into centuries of British monarchy and pageantry. With 775 rooms, exquisite artwork from the Royal Collection, and the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, Buckingham Palace represents the pinnacle of British royal tradition and architectural grandeur.

A brief summary to Buckingham Palace

London, SW1A 1AA, GB
+443031237300
Visit website
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

Book tickets well in advance during summer months (July–September), as timed admission slots fill quickly. Arrive no later than 15 minutes before your designated entry time to avoid missing your slot.
Visit mid-week rather than weekends to experience fewer crowds. Early morning or late afternoon time slots typically offer a more intimate experience of the State Rooms.
If viewing the Changing of the Guard, book a palace entry time after 12:30 p.m., as the ceremony is not visible from the State Rooms or gardens. Alternatively, watch the ceremony separately at no cost from the palace gates.
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the State Rooms but permitted in the gardens. Save your camera for the garden exit walk, where you can capture the lake and west front of the palace.
Consider purchasing a Royal Day Out ticket to access the State Rooms, Royal Mews, and The King's Gallery for the best overall value and comprehensive royal experience.

Getting There

London Underground

Green Park station (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines) is the nearest tube station, approximately 5–7 minutes' walk from the palace entrance. Exit the station and follow signs toward Buckingham Palace Road. This is the most direct and reliable option, operating throughout the day with frequent service.
Bus

Multiple bus routes serve the area around Buckingham Palace, including routes 2, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 19, 22, 38, 52, 73, 87, and 94. Journey times vary from 15–30 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point. Buses run regularly throughout the day, though expect delays during peak hours and summer tourist season.
Taxi or Ride-Share

Black cabs and ride-share services (Uber, Bolt) operate throughout London. Journey times from central London locations range from 10–25 minutes depending on traffic. Costs typically range from £8–20 for short journeys within central London. Note that parking near the palace is extremely limited and expensive (£3–5 per hour in surrounding car parks).
Walking

From Victoria Station (approximately 10–12 minutes' walk), follow Buckingham Palace Road northward. The route is flat, well-signposted, and passes The King's Gallery. From Trafalgar Square (approximately 20 minutes' walk), head south through St. James's Park, which offers a scenic approach past the park's lake and gardens.

Buckingham Palace location weather suitability

Any Weather

Discover more about Buckingham Palace

A Palace Steeped in Royal Heritage

Buckingham Palace began its life in 1703 as Buckingham House, a grand townhouse commissioned for the Duke of Buckingham. The transformation into a royal residence occurred in 1761 when King George III purchased it as a private home for Queen Charlotte. Under subsequent monarchs, particularly King George IV and Queen Victoria, the palace underwent significant expansions and renovations. Queen Victoria established it as the official royal residence in 1837, a status it maintains today as the London home of His Majesty The King. The palace's most recognizable façade was redesigned by Sir Aston Webb in 1913, creating the neoclassical frontage that has become synonymous with British monarchy worldwide.

Architectural Splendor and Royal Proportions

The sheer scale of Buckingham Palace defies easy comprehension. The residence comprises 775 rooms in total, including 19 State Rooms used for ceremonial entertaining, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. Approximately 400 to 800 members of staff work within the palace to maintain its operations and preserve its grandeur. The State Rooms showcase some of the finest examples of interior design and decoration, each meticulously furnished with masterpieces from the Royal Collection, including works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto. The palace also contains the largest private garden in London, spanning 39 acres and featuring a serene lake, helicopter landing pad, and tennis court—a verdant oasis in the heart of the capital.

The State Rooms and Royal Collection

Visitors who tour the State Rooms experience the spaces where the British monarch conducts state business and entertains dignitaries from around the world. These rooms represent the pinnacle of royal elegance, with ornate furnishings, gilded decorations, and priceless artwork adorning every surface. Each room tells a story of British pageantry and diplomatic tradition, from the Grand Staircase—where tours begin through the same entrance used by foreign ambassadors—to the intimate chambers where state banquets and formal receptions take place. The annual summer opening allows approximately 50,000 visitors to walk through these historic spaces and witness firsthand the opulence that defines the British monarchy. Photography is prohibited inside the State Rooms to preserve the intimate atmosphere, though visitors may photograph the gardens during their exit.

Ceremony and Pageantry: The Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard remains one of London's most celebrated ceremonies, drawing visitors from across the globe to witness this colorful display of British military tradition. The ceremony takes place at the palace forecourt, which was created in 1911 as part of a scheme to commemorate Queen Victoria. Soldiers from one of five regiments of Foot Guards—the Scots Guards, Irish Guards, Welsh Guards, Grenadier Guards, and Coldstream Guards—perform the formal handover of duties. The ceremony begins at 10:45 a.m., with the actual changeover occurring at 11:00 a.m. (10:00 a.m. on Sundays). The frequency varies seasonally: from June through July, the ceremony occurs daily, while from August through May, it takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Spectating is entirely free, though prime viewing spots near the palace gates fill quickly, particularly during peak summer months.

Complementary Royal Attractions

Beyond the State Rooms, Buckingham Palace offers access to The King's Gallery and the Royal Mews, each providing distinct perspectives on royal life. The King's Gallery, located along Buckingham Palace Road, remains open year-round and features rotating exhibitions of masterpieces from the Royal Collection, including old master paintings, rare furniture, and decorative arts. The Royal Mews houses the royal family's ceremonial coaches and carriages, including the spectacular Gold State Coach, last used during His Majesty's Coronation in 2023. The mews also displays the working vehicles and carriage horses that serve the monarchy. Combined tickets offering access to multiple attractions provide excellent value for visitors wishing to explore the full scope of royal heritage.

Resilience Through History

Buckingham Palace's significance extends beyond its architectural beauty and artistic treasures. During World War II, the palace was bombed nine times, yet the royal family remained in residence as a powerful symbol of British resilience and continuity. This commitment to duty during the nation's darkest hours cemented the palace's place not merely as a building, but as an embodiment of British identity and steadfast tradition. Today, visitors stand in spaces that have witnessed centuries of British history, from state ceremonies to wartime resolve, making every visit a connection to the living heritage of the British monarchy.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Buckingham Palace

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Experience the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, a historical landmark in the heart of London.

Queen Victoria Memorial

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Discover the grandeur of the Queen Victoria Memorial in London, a historical landmark adorned with stunning sculptures and surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Victoria Memorial

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A grand Edwardian monument celebrating Queen Victoria’s legacy, crowned by gilded Winged Victory and set before Buckingham Palace’s iconic facade.

The State Rooms

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Discover the opulence of The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace, where history and royal heritage come alive in stunning detail.

Canada Memorial

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Visit the Canada Memorial in Green Park, London, a serene homage to Canadian soldiers, surrounded by natural beauty and rich history.

Constitution Hill

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Historic Houses

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Clarence House

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The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)

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The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)

St. James's Palace

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Republic of Texas Plaque

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Little Ben Clock

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Pickering Pl

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Wellington Arch

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The Mall

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Explore The Mall in London, a historic avenue connecting Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square, filled with beauty, history, and vibrant events.

Explore Westminster Cathedral in London, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and a vital part of the city's Catholic heritage, perfect for cultural enthusiasts.

A hidden gem in Belgravia, The Grenadier combines military history, ghostly legends, and classic British pub charm in a secluded mews setting.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Queen's Shop

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Discover exclusive royal-themed gifts at The Queen's Shop, a haven for tourists near Buckingham Palace, showcasing the essence of British heritage.

Buckingham Palace Shop

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Explore the Buckingham Palace Shop for unique royal gifts and chinaware that capture the essence of British heritage.

Cool Britannia

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Discover the essence of British culture at Cool Britannia, your go-to gift shop for authentic souvenirs and unique treasures in London.

Cardinal Place

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Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.

Burlington Arcade

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Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.

Westminster Abbey Shop

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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at the Westminster Abbey Shop, a treasure trove of history within the iconic Westminster Abbey.

Houses of Parliament Shop

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Explore the Houses of Parliament Shop for exclusive gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of British heritage and history.

Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)

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Discover unique British souvenirs and gifts at the Jubilee Shop in the iconic Houses of Parliament, a true gem for tourists in London.

Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)

Glorious London Gift & Souvenir

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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.

Crest of London Ltd

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Explore Crest of London Ltd for unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the spirit of London, perfect for any visitor wanting to remember their trip.

CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON

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M&M'S London

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Cool Britania

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Machine-A

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JW Anderson London Soho

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Explore the vibrant JW Anderson boutique in Soho, where contemporary British fashion meets exquisite craftsmanship and unique style.

Discover The Thin White Duke, an artistic cocktail bar in London offering innovative drinks, dim sum, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Buckingham Palace with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Buckingham Palace

A brief summary to Buckingham Palace

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

London Underground

Bus

Taxi or Ride-Share

Walking

Buckingham Palace location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Buckingham Palace

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Buckingham Palace

A Palace Steeped in Royal Heritage

Architectural Splendor and Royal Proportions

The State Rooms and Royal Collection

Ceremony and Pageantry: The Changing of the Guard

Complementary Royal Attractions

Resilience Through History

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Buckingham Palace

Queen Victoria Memorial

Victoria Memorial

The State Rooms

Canada Memorial

Constitution Hill

Historic Houses

Clarence House

The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)

St. James's Palace

Republic of Texas Plaque

Little Ben Clock

Pickering Pl

Wellington Arch

The Mall

Unmissable attractions to see

The King's Gallery, Buckingham Palace

The Green Park

The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace

Lancaster House

The Guards Museum

Spencer House

Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk

Commonwealth Memorial Gates

The Queen's Chapel

Bomber Command Memorial

Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop

St James's Park

New Zealand War Memorial

Apollo Victoria Theatre

Westminster Cathedral

Essential places to dine

The English Grill

Bill's Victoria Restaurant

Great British Restaurant

Francatelli

Seven Park Place by William Drabble

HIDE

Chez Antoinette Victoria

Ormer Mayfair Restaurant

Caxton Grill

Golden Lion

Colosseo Restaurant

The Pem

Quaglino's

Mio Restaurant & Bar

The Grenadier

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Queen's Shop

Buckingham Palace Shop

Cool Britannia

Cardinal Place

Burlington Arcade

Westminster Abbey Shop

Houses of Parliament Shop

Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)

Glorious London Gift & Souvenir

Crest of London Ltd