As a bonus stop on their free walking tours of Westminster, many visitors are taken aback when they reach the door of Buckingham Palace. Looking at this iconic monument from the outside, it could seem like a dull, drab structure with little intriguing to offer. As the formal palace of the King and administrative headquarters for the British monarchy, this grey structure is basically the heart of regal London. However, one must not judge a book by its cover; it functions as both. So, if you are planning to visit this world-famous attraction, here’s the ultimate Buckingham Palace Guide for Visitors.
Buckingham Palace: A Historical Account
The Duke of Buckingham had Buckingham Palace built for him in 1703. The name comes from that. Many notable royals have called Buckingham Palace their official home, including George IV, Queen Victoria, and many more.
Buckingham Palace was the site of the births of Edward VII, William IV, Prince Charles, and Prince Andrew, the sons of Queen Elizabeth II. During her reign, Queen Victoria hosted a slew of extravagant events in Buckingham Palace, including costume balls, concerts, and more. The palace was the first British royal residence.
Hours of Operation and Ticket Information for Buckingham Palace
For a number of weeks every year, the State Rooms and Palace Garden of Buckingham Palace are open to the public. However, evident security concerns permit only palace-guided visits. The dates that are available for tours of the palace change from year to year.
Palace tours with a guide
Fridays at 4:00 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm are the times for tours from November to May.
Seasonal admission for 2024
With the exception of Tuesdays and Wednesdays, all trips are available daily from July 11th through September 29th. You should plan ahead if you wish to enter the palace during its scheduled entrance hours (9:30 am to 5:15 pm in July and August and 4:15 pm in September), but you may visit any time throughout the day.
Within the confines of the royal grounds, a ritual known as the changing of the guard takes place. Taking place from 10:45 to 11:00, this ceremony is open to the public and does not need a ticket. This timing is subject to change based on factors such as the weather. Except for the months of June and July, the ceremony takes place once a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays throughout the year.
What should I see and do at Buckingham Palace?
1. Roam the halls of the White Drawing Room
As the most opulent of the state rooms, the White Drawing Room is where the King and members of the Royal Family assemble for royal receptions before formal events. Take note of the four side cabinets and mirrors that make up the enormous secret door while you admire the space.
2. See a Historic Vermeer
Experience the grandeur and leave a lasting legacy for the lords. Some of the most illustrious figures in art history have left their mark on the State Rooms, which house some of their most renowned works. Among the most illustrious works of art in the Royal Collection are on exhibit at the Picture Gallery of Buckingham Palace.
The music lesson by Johannes Vermeer is quite remarkable. The United Kingdom offers a unique chance to see one of the five Vermeer paintings. There are only thirty-four of them in the world.
2. Take in the marble
In the Marble Hall of the Palace, you will see exquisite statues that you must not miss. Beautiful sculptures made by the illustrious Italian master Antonio Canova, widely considered to have been among the best artists of his day. Three of Canova’s works are considered masterpieces by King George IV. Among them are the magnificent Mars and Venus, which he sculpted from a single block of stone.
4. Make sure the children stay engaged
There is more than just a children’s edition of the complimentary multimedia guidebook featuring Alice the footman and Rex the corgi to keep youngsters occupied on the State Rooms tour. Parents will also find helpful resources at the palace. During the summer, stop by the Family Pavilion, which is located on the terrace. Get some of that boundless energy out with one of the many available activities or play areas! To learn more, check out our highlights and family pages.
5. Appreciate a King’s Portrait
In the Ballroom of Buckingham Palace this summer, you may see the first official picture of HM King Charles III as monarch. Renowned artist Jonathan Yeo commissioned the picture in 2020 to commemorate the then-Prince of Wales’s 50th year as a member of The Drapers’ Company in 2022. Drapers’ Hall in London will be the final home for the artwork.
6. Enjoy some downtime on the balcony
Tea at Buckingham Palace—is there any more British than that? In the summer, you may have a cup of tea while taking in the scenery at our Garden Café, which is located on the West Terrace. Now is the time to relax and give in a little. They provide a variety of beverages, including tea, coffee, cold drinks, sandwiches, and desserts.
As you go down the Garden Path, you’ll also come across ice cream stalls, perfect for those who want a portable pick-me-up. In the garden’s store, you may find a variety of unique souvenirs to commemorate your stay.
7. Follow a guide as you explore the garden
Have you ever wished you could have peeked outside the castle walls? During the summer, a Garden Highlights Tour will let you know when the palace is available to the public. Take a guided 45-minute tour in the inner courtyard of Buckingham Palace. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Rose Garden, locate London’s most prestigious tennis court, and discover the incredible animals in this urban sanctuary.
8. See a King or Queen’s Portrait
Photographs of the British royal family have changed dramatically since the 1920s, as shown in the exhibition A Century of Photography at Buckingham Palace’s King’s Gallery. View the renowned royal photographers’ works, including those of Annie Leibovitz, Rankin, Cecil Beaton, and Dorothy Wilding.
9. Meet the Guards
In front of Buckingham Palace, the world-famous Changing the Guard ritual takes place, and no visit to London is complete without seeing it. On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 11:00 (weather permitting), the men of the British Army’s Household Division organise Changing the Guard.
Please check the Household Division website for up-to-date information, since dates and hours are subject to change. There will be a lot of people surrounding the Victoria Memorial, St. James’s Park, and the Mall around this time of ceremony, so get there early to get a decent place.
10. Observe the coronation carriage
All that shines isn’t always gold, sometimes! King Charles III’s coronation in 2023 included the majestic 260-year-old Golden State Coach, among other notable guests. Since its inception in 1831, this carriage has carried every British monarch to their coronation, making it an illustrious and dynamic piece of British history. The Royal Mews, which are the stables of Buckingham Palace, showcase the Gold State Coach.
Important Information for Guests of Buckingham Palace
If you buy your tickets straight from the Royal Collection Trust, you’ll get free entrance to the palace for a whole year. Prior to exiting the palace, have an employee stamp and confirm your yearly pass once you have signed and printed your name on the ticket.
Great views from outdoors
Visit the palace around eleven o’clock in the morning on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays to see the Changing of the Guard ritual. If you’d rather not go inside, you can always take in the breathtaking views from the grounds. The procession goes to St. James’s Palace, Wellington Barracks, and Buckingham Palace; however, the greatest place to see it is from the east side of the palace, close to the gates.
The highlight of a free tour of London is a stop at Buckingham Palace. Once you have a solid grasp of the area’s history and architecture from a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll be prepared to admire the palace to its fullest.
Buckingham Palace at its most picturesque
There is a limited window of opportunity for tourists to see Buckingham Palace. The state rooms and palace grounds are open to the public for tours from July through September.
The State Rooms transport you to the lavish world of the royal family with its furniture, artwork, and decorations. Guests may also enjoy a tranquil escape in the middle of London in the royal gardens, which provide breathtaking views of the palace’s façade and are available to the public.
The changing of the guard, however, is something that happens more often. Starting in April and continuing every other day until July, the exercise showcases military precision and pageantry every morning at 11 AM. Throughout the year, it occurs on alternating days. Because tickets usually sell out fast, it’s best to buy them ahead of time.
