Buckingham Palace Road
Historic London street linking royal palaces, Art Deco architecture, and major transport hubs in the heart of Victoria.
Buckingham Palace Road is a historic street running through Victoria, London, from the south side of Buckingham Palace towards Chelsea. This iconic thoroughfare is dominated by Victoria Station and features significant landmarks including the Royal Mews, Queen's Gallery, and the headquarters of Girlguiding. The street showcases architectural heritage spanning from the 18th century to the Art Deco era, with the former Empire Terminal and Victoria Coach Station representing notable design achievements. A vibrant hub for visitors exploring royal London.
A brief summary to Buckingham Palace Rd
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds at Victoria Station and enjoy clearer views of Buckingham Palace from the street.
- The Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs daily at Buckingham Palace; arrive early to secure viewing positions along Buckingham Palace Road.
- Explore the architectural details of the former Empire Terminal building and Victoria Coach Station to appreciate the Art Deco design heritage.
- The Official Royal Souvenir Shop offers authentic memorabilia and is conveniently located on the street for post-visit shopping.
- Combine your visit with access to the Royal Mews and Queen's Gallery, whose entrances are directly on this street.
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 (Tube)
Victoria Station is directly accessible via the Victoria Line, District Line, and Circle Line. Journey times from central London vary: approximately 5–8 minutes from King's Cross St Pancras, 10–12 minutes from Oxford Circus, or 12–15 minutes from Tower Bridge. The station exit places you directly onto Buckingham Palace Road. No additional cost beyond standard Oyster card or contactless payment (typically £1.75–£3.40 depending on zones). Service runs every 2–5 minutes during peak hours.
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National Rail (Mainline Train)
Victoria Station serves as a major rail terminus with services from across southern England and the continent. Direct rail connections from Brighton take approximately 40–50 minutes, from Gatwick Airport approximately 30 minutes, and from Canterbury approximately 90 minutes. Standard fares vary by operator and advance booking; expect £15–£45 for regional journeys. Once at Victoria Station, Buckingham Palace Road is immediately accessible from the station forecourt.
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London Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Buckingham Palace Road and Victoria Station, including routes 2, 10, 16, 24, 38, 52, 73, 87, 88, 185, and 452. Journey times from other central London locations range from 15–30 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. Standard bus fare is £1.75 for a single journey with Oyster card or contactless payment. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with reduced service after midnight.
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Walking
Buckingham Palace Road is accessible on foot from central London attractions. From Trafalgar Square, the walk takes approximately 20–25 minutes through St James's Park. From Westminster Abbey, allow 15–20 minutes. From Hyde Park Corner, approximately 12–15 minutes. The route is flat and well-paved with clear pavements and pedestrian crossings. All routes are suitable for standard mobility and wheelchairs.
Buckingham Palace Rd location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Buckingham Palace Rd
A Street Steeped in Royal Heritage
Buckingham Palace Road forms the A3214 and serves as one of London's most historically significant thoroughfares. Running from the south side of Buckingham Palace towards Chelsea through the Victoria district, this street has been intimately connected to the British monarchy and the city's development for centuries. In the 18th century, the road was known as Chelsea Road and was notorious for highwayman activity, with rewards offered for the capture of offenders. Today, it stands as a carefully preserved corridor linking royal institutions with modern transport infrastructure.Architectural Landmarks and Design Excellence
The street showcases remarkable architectural diversity spanning multiple eras. Victoria Station, opened in 1866, dominates the southern end and remains one of London's major transport hubs. Adjacent to it stands Victoria Coach Station, completed in 1932 and designed in the distinctive Art Deco style that characterizes much of the street's mid-20th-century development. The former Empire Terminal of Imperial Airways, which operated from 1938 to the late 1970s, represents another outstanding example of Art Deco design by architect Albert Lakeman. This terminal once facilitated international travel by allowing passengers to check-in before boarding special trains to Croydon Airport or Southampton Docks for flying boat services. The building now houses the headquarters of the National Audit Office, preserving its architectural significance while serving a new purpose.Royal Institutions and Cultural Significance
Buckingham Palace Road provides access to some of the most important royal and cultural institutions in London. The entrances to the Royal Mews and Queen's Gallery are located on this street, offering visitors direct access to the working stables and royal art collections. The street also holds particular significance for youth organizations: the Boy Scouts' Association (now The Scout Association) established its headquarters at number 25 in 1917, where the World Scout Bureau was inaugurated in 1920. The organization remained there until 1974. Girlguiding, the female counterpart organization, moved into its own purpose-built headquarters at numbers 17–19 in 1929, where it continues to operate today. These institutions reflect the street's role as a center for British civic and social life.Transport Connectivity and Urban Function
As the location of Victoria Station and Victoria Coach Station, Buckingham Palace Road functions as a critical transport nexus for London. The street connects rail services, coach services, and proximity to major airports through dedicated transport links. This accessibility has made it a vital gateway for both residents and visitors exploring central London. The presence of these transport facilities has shaped the street's character and continues to influence its daily rhythm and visitor patterns.Commercial and Visitor Experience
Today, Buckingham Palace Road serves as a key destination for tourists and Londoners alike. The Official Royal Souvenir Shop operates on the street, positioned just outside the Palace walls and within easy walking distance of Victoria's transport facilities. The street provides multiple vantage points for viewing Buckingham Palace and accessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place throughout the year at the Palace's main entrance. The combination of royal proximity, transport accessibility, and cultural institutions makes this street an essential part of any London itinerary.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little Ben Clock
0.3 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Historic Houses
0.5 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
Wellington Arch
0.9 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Royal Artillery Memorial
0.9 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.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
1.0 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
1.0 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.
Cockpit Steps
1.2 km
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
St. James's Palace
1.2 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Republic of Texas Plaque
1.3 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Pickering Pl
1.3 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
The Mall
1.4 km
Explore The Mall in London, a historic avenue connecting Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square, filled with beauty, history, and vibrant events.
Westminster Abbey
1.4 km
Discover the timeless beauty and rich history of Westminster Abbey, a must-visit landmark in London for every traveler seeking to explore British heritage.
His Majesty's Treasury
1.4 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
Churchill War Rooms
1.4 km
Discover the Churchill War Rooms, an iconic historical museum revealing the secrets of wartime Britain and Winston Churchill's leadership during WWII.
Jewel Tower
1.4 km
Discover the Jewel Tower, a rare medieval treasure guarding centuries of royal secrets in the heart of Westminster.
Unmissable attractions to see
Big Bus Tours London
0.1 km
Explore London’s iconic landmarks at your own pace with Big Bus Tours’ flexible hop-on hop-off routes and panoramic open-top buses.
Golden Tours, Bulleid Way Departure Point
0.2 km
Explore the best of London with Golden Tours at Bulleid Way, offering diverse guided tours and experiences for every traveler.
Apollo Victoria Theatre
0.3 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.
Wicked The Musical
0.3 km
Experience the magical, award-winning West End musical that redefines the witches of Oz with spectacular music and stunning stagecraft.
Cardinal Place
0.4 km
Urban shopping oasis blending retail buzz, rooftop serenity, and innovative design over London's Underground in vibrant Victoria.
The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace
0.5 km
Discover the historic working stables and royal coaches that have carried British monarchs for centuries at The Royal Mews.
Westminster Cathedral
0.5 km
Discover Westminster Cathedral’s stunning neo-Byzantine architecture, vibrant mosaics, and serene spiritual atmosphere in the heart of London’s Victoria district.
Horse & Groom
0.6 km
A charming historic pub tucked away in Belgravia’s cobbled mews, blending traditional hospitality with rich celebrity and cultural heritage.
The King's Gallery, Buckingham Palace
0.6 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.
Belgrave Square
0.6 km
Belgrave Square: A stately garden square in Belgravia, blending 19th-century elegance with exclusive private gardens and rich diplomatic history.
The State Rooms
0.7 km
Step inside Buckingham Palace’s magnificent State Rooms to experience the grandeur and history of the British monarchy’s ceremonial heart.
Buckingham Palace
0.8 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless traditions of Buckingham Palace, the iconic heart of British royalty in London.
Sloane Square
0.8 km
An elegant London square where Chelsea’s luxury shopping, culture and high society meet, centred on the Venus Fountain and framed by Peter Jones and the Royal Court Theatre.
Constitution Hill
0.8 km
A historic royal route in London linking Hyde Park Corner with Buckingham Palace, rich in heritage and scenic charm.
Innofinity Worldwide
0.9 km
Discover Innofinity Worldwide at Sloane Square, London’s trusted destination for quality used iPhones and innovative e-commerce experiences.
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
0.4 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.8 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.9 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.
Caxton Grill
1.0 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
The Pem
1.1 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Ma La Sichuan
1.1 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Osteria dell'Angolo
1.2 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.2 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Great British Restaurant
1.3 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
HIDE
1.3 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Sapori
1.3 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
1.3 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cool Britannia
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Buckingham Palace Shop
0.5 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
The Queen's Shop
0.6 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
0.7 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
1.0 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Harrods
1.3 km
Step into the world’s most iconic luxury department store, where shopping, dining, and history blend in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Shepherd Market
1.3 km
A Georgian village hidden in Mayfair's heart, where independent shops, art galleries and historic pubs preserve timeless London charm.
Westminster Abbey Shop
1.3 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
1.3 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Lock & Co. Hatters
1.3 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
John Lobb St. James
1.3 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Knightsbridge
1.3 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where world-class shopping, elegant architecture, and cultural attractions blend seamlessly.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
1.5 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Piccadilly Arcade
1.5 km
Discover Edwardian elegance and bespoke luxury in Piccadilly Arcade, a historic shopping gem linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street in London.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
1.5 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
0.7 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
All Bar One Victoria
0.7 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.
Adam & Eve
0.9 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.
Blue Boar Pub
1.1 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
1.2 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Below
1.3 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Westminster Arms
1.3 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.
Morpeth Arms
1.4 km
Historic Thameside pub with cask ales, hearty fare, haunted cellars, and MI6 views— a Westminster gem blending Victorian ghosts and modern cheer.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
1.6 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
1.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Tamesis Dock
1.7 km
A vibrant floating bar and live music venue on a historic barge with iconic Thames views between Lambeth and Vauxhall Bridges.
The Spy Bar
1.8 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Old Shades
1.9 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tabu London
1.5 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.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
1.5 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
The Scotch of St James
1.6 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
1.7 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
TSQ Club
1.8 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.
Union
1.8 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
1.8 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Lightbox London
1.9 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Tiger Tiger London
1.9 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
1.9 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.0 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Fire Nightclub
2.0 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Café de Paris
2.0 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
2.0 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Dolce Night Club , London
2.0 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Art Deco Styles
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
