Visit Buckingham Palace

Claim to Fame

Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British monarch and one of the world’s most iconic royal landmarks, known for its grand architecture and the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

📌 Navigating Buckingham Palace : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Public restrooms are available for visitors on the palace grounds.
Hours of Operation: Opening times vary, typically more accessible to the public in summer.
Important Information: Check the official website for opening dates, times, and special event information.
Admission Fee: Admission fee required for entry, with various ticket options available.
How Long to Visit: The average visit lasts 2-3 hours, depending on the extent of the tour.
Parking: Limited parking available; using public transport is advisable.
Family Friendly: Family-friendly with specific tours and activities aimed at children.
Photography: Photography is restricted within the palace; check guidelines for outdoor photography.
WIFI: WIFI may not be available within the palace.
Picnic Area: No picnic areas within the palace grounds, but nearby St. James's Park offers space.
Handicap Accessible: The palace offers limited accessibility; some areas may not be accessible to wheelchair users.
Pets: Pets are not allowed within the palace or garden areas.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, offering historical insights and access to various rooms and gardens.
Restaurant or Cafe: Cafes and a restaurant are available on-site, offering refreshments and meals.
Gift Shop: The palace shop offers a range of souvenirs, gifts, and royal memorabilia.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace stands at the heart of ceremonial London — a symbol of British heritage, monarchy, and national celebration. With its vast courtyard, iconic gates, and regal façade, it's one of the most visited and photographed landmarks in the UK.

What to Expect

While the palace itself is only open to the public during select months (usually late July to early October), visitors can admire the building year-round from the outside. Highlights include the Changing of the Guard — a colorful, precision-filled ceremony featuring music and traditional military regalia — typically held on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 11:00 AM.

During the summer opening, visitors can explore the lavish State Rooms, see the Royal Collection of art, and enjoy the garden cafe overlooking the palace grounds. Audio guides provide insight into royal traditions, diplomacy, and the history behind the throne.

Background and Cultural Context

Originally built in 1703 as Buckingham House, the structure became the official royal residence in 1837 with the accession of Queen Victoria. Over time, it has evolved into the administrative headquarters of the monarchy and the setting for major state events, royal receptions, and national addresses.

From Trooping the Colour to royal weddings and balcony appearances, Buckingham Palace remains the focal point for royal celebrations and public gatherings in the UK.

Best Time to Visit

Visit during the summer if you want to tour the inside of the palace — tickets often sell out, so book in advance. For the Changing of the Guard, arrive at least 30–45 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot near the gates or on the Victoria Memorial steps.

How to Get There

The palace is located in Westminster and is easily accessible by Underground. The nearest stations are Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, Victoria lines), St. James’s Park (District, Circle lines), and Victoria Station. It's also within walking distance from other major attractions like Big Ben and Trafalgar Square.

Photo Opportunities

The grand front façade with the iconic balcony
Red-coated guards during the Changing of the Guard
Royal gates and crest at the entrance
Reflections in the fountains of the Victoria Memorial

Travel Tips

Check the official schedule for the Changing of the Guard as it may vary by season or weather.
Tickets for the summer State Rooms tour are best booked online weeks in advance.
Combine your visit with a stroll through St. James’s Park or lunch in nearby Mayfair.
Photography is not allowed inside the State Rooms.

FAQs

Is Buckingham Palace open year-round?
Only the exterior is visible year-round; the interior State Rooms are open seasonally, typically from July to October.

Is the Changing of the Guard free?
Yes — it’s a free, public event and one of London’s most popular attractions.

Are there guided tours?
Yes — audio guides are included with ticketed entry, and private tours may be available during off-hours.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're drawn by royal history or iconic London landmarks, Buckingham Palace offers a unique glimpse into Britain’s past and present. Its ceremonial splendor, architectural beauty, and enduring role in public life make it a must-see for anyone visiting the capital.

Things To Do near Buckingham Palace

Churchill War Rooms

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to Churchill War Rooms is 1.4 Kilometer(s) / 0.9 Mile(s)

West End Theatre District

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to West End Theatre District is 2.3 Kilometer(s) / 1.4 Mile(s)

Harrods

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to Harrods is 2.4 Kilometer(s) / 1.5 Mile(s)

London Eye

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to London Eye is 2.6 Kilometer(s) / 1.6 Mile(s)

Hyde Park

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to Hyde Park is 2.6 Kilometer(s) / 1.6 Mile(s)

British Museum

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to British Museum is 3.7 Kilometer(s) / 2.3 Mile(s)

Tate Modern

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to Tate Modern is 4.8 Kilometer(s) / 3 Mile(s)

Tower of London

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to Tower of London is 7.4 Kilometer(s) / 4.6 Mile(s)

Tower Bridge

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge is 7.4 Kilometer(s) / 4.6 Mile(s)

Royal Observatory in Greenwich

The Distance from Buckingham Palace to Royal Observatory in Greenwich is 16.4 Kilometer(s) / 10.2 Mile(s)

📘 London Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: London operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during the winter and British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT +1, during the summer months.

Weather: London has a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round. Summers are generally warm with average highs around 22°C (72°F), while winters are cool with temperatures averaging 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Rain is frequent but typically light.

Population: London has a population of over 9 million people, making it the largest city in the United Kingdom. It is one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse cities in the world, with more than 300 languages spoken.

Size: London spans an area of about 1,572 square kilometers (607 square miles) and is divided into 32 boroughs plus the City of London. The River Thames flows through the city, shaping its layout and history.

Language: English is the official language in London. Due to its diversity, many other languages are spoken across the city, including Bengali, Polish, Arabic, French, and Urdu.

Currency: The currency used is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common across public transit and shops.

Safety: London is considered safe for tourists, though petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transport. Police presence is strong in central and tourist-heavy areas.

Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, a 10–15% tip is common if service is not included. Tipping is less expected in pubs, but appreciated for exceptional service.

Electricity and Plugs: The United Kingdom uses 230V electricity at 50Hz. Plug type G is standard. Visitors from countries with different plug types will need an adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

Water: Tap water in London is safe to drink and meets strict quality standards. It is treated and monitored regularly, and commonly served in restaurants upon request.

Annual Visitors: London welcomes over 20 million international visitors each year. It is one of the most visited cities in the world, with landmarks such as the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and the West End theatre district.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries, including EU and Commonwealth nations, can enter the UK for short stays without a visa. Others may require a Standard Visitor visa. A valid passport is required for all visitors.

Health & Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for entry into the UK. Travelers should ensure routine vaccines like MMR, flu, and COVID-19 are up to date. Healthcare is excellent, but visitors may need insurance to cover treatment.

Transportation: London has a vast and efficient public transportation system including the London Underground (“Tube”), buses, overground trains, and river ferries. Contactless cards and the Oyster system are widely used for payment.

Food: London’s food scene is incredibly diverse, offering everything from classic British fare like fish and chips to world cuisines. Street food markets, fine dining, and multicultural neighborhoods make the city a global culinary hub.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Londoners value politeness, queuing, and personal space. A simple “please” and “thank you” go a long way. Public behavior is generally reserved, and loud conduct is discouraged in shared spaces like public transport.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public areas. Mobile coverage is excellent, and prepaid SIM cards with data are easy to obtain at airports and shops.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended for visitors to London. While the NHS provides excellent care, non-residents may be charged for services. Insurance also helps with trip interruptions or lost belongings.

Did You Know? - Facts About Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch and has been the official London residence of The UK's sovereigns since 1837.

The State Rooms of Buckingham Palace are open to The public every summer, allowing visitors to explore The lavish rooms used for official events and ceremonies.

The palace's balcony is The center of The British national celebration during significant events, where The royal family joins The public for major celebrations.

The palace has 775 rooms, including 19 State rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms.

The palace's garden is The largest private garden in London, featuring a helicopter landing area, a lake, and a tennis court.