Buckingham Palace: The Heart of British Royalty
Experience the grandeur and timeless traditions of Buckingham Palace, the iconic heart of British royalty in London.
Buckingham Palace, located in London SW1A 1AA, is the official London residence of the British monarch and a symbol of the United Kingdom's royal heritage. Famous for its iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, the palace boasts 775 rooms including 19 State Rooms used for official events. Open to the public during summer months, visitors can explore lavish interiors, royal art collections, and the beautiful surrounding gardens.
A brief summary to Buckingham Palace
- London, SW1A 1AA, GB
- +443031237300
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 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 to explore the State Rooms and avoid disappointment.
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby St James’s Park for scenic views and wildlife.
- Visit the Royal Mews and Queen’s Gallery with combined tickets for a fuller royal experience.
- Enjoy refreshments at the Garden Café overlooking the palace gardens to relax after your tour.
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 via the Piccadilly, Jubilee, or Victoria lines. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to Buckingham Palace. Travel time from central London is approximately 20-30 minutes. Oyster cards and contactless payments are accepted, with fares typically around £2.50–£4.00.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the area, including routes 11, 211, and 148, which stop near Buckingham Palace. Travel times vary from 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Buses accept contactless payment and Oyster cards. Note that buses can be slower during peak hours.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Black cabs and ride-hailing services like Uber can take you directly to Buckingham Palace. Travel time from central London is about 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares typically between £10 and £25. Parking near the palace is highly restricted.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Buckingham Palace is a pleasant option, especially from areas like Westminster or St James’s Park. Walking times range from 15 to 30 minutes on mostly flat, paved routes 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
Royal Residence and Historic Origins
Buckingham Palace stands as the official London home of the reigning monarch and serves as the administrative headquarters of the monarchy. Originally built in 1703 as a large townhouse for the Duke of Buckingham, it was acquired by King George III in 1761 for Queen Charlotte, becoming known as the Queen's House. Over the centuries, it has expanded into the grand palace with 775 rooms that it is today, including 19 State Rooms where official ceremonies and receptions are held.Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Treasures
The palace's interiors are richly decorated with masterpieces by renowned artists such as Canaletto and Van Dyck, alongside sculptures by Canova. Visitors touring the State Rooms experience the opulence of British royal life, with highlights including the Throne Room, often used for investitures and royal wedding portraits, and the White Drawing Room, which remains a private royal reception area. Recent additions include permanent state portraits of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in the Throne Room.The Changing of the Guard: A Timeless Ceremony
One of Buckingham Palace's most famous traditions is the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This event, featuring precise drill movements and stirring military music, takes place several times a week and spans three locations: Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, and Wellington Barracks. The ceremony is free to watch and attracts visitors eager to witness this display of British pageantry and discipline.Seasonal Public Access and Visitor Experience
The palace opens to the public annually from July to September, allowing visitors to explore the State Rooms with an audio guide. The tour lasts approximately 2-3 hours and includes access to the gardens where photography is permitted. The Royal Mews and Queen’s Gallery are also accessible with combined tickets, offering insights into royal carriages and art collections. Nearby St James’s Park provides a scenic complement to the royal visit.Surrounding Attractions and Amenities
Beyond the palace itself, visitors can enjoy the tranquil beauty of St James’s Park with its lakeside paths and resident pelicans. The Garden Café at Buckingham Palace offers a peaceful spot to relax with refreshments overlooking the gardens. The area around the palace also features dining options, including Italian cuisine, making it ideal for a full day of cultural and culinary experiences.Significance and Cultural Heritage
Buckingham Palace is not only a working royal residence but also a symbol of British history and culture. It hosts state occasions, official entertaining, and royal ceremonies that are integral to the nation's identity. The palace’s grandeur and traditions continue to captivate visitors from around the world, embodying the enduring legacy of the British monarchy.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
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- 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
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly