Buckingham Palace | Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to Buckingham Palace, the iconic London residence of the British monarch and a cornerstone of the UK’s cultural heritage. This magnificent palace, steeped in history, offers visitors a chance to explore its opulent State Rooms, witness the world-famous Changing of the Guard, and stroll through its beautiful gardens. As the administrative heart of the monarchy, it’s a must-visit for anyone eager to experience British royalty up close.

Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance, architectural splendor, or vibrant ceremonies, Buckingham Palace promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of London’s royal legacy.

Location

Buckingham Palace is situated at London SW1A 1AA, in the City of Westminster, central London. Nestled near vibrant areas like Victoria, Green Park, and Hyde Park Corner, it’s easily accessible and surrounded by iconic landmarks. Nearby, you’ll find St. James’s Park, a lush green space perfect for a relaxing walk, and the bustling Victoria Station, a major transport hub. For precise navigation, using GPS or map apps like Google Maps is recommended to locate the palace effortlessly.

Opening Hours

The State Rooms of Buckingham Palace are open to the public during the summer, from 10 July to 28 September 2025, typically operating daily from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM. In September, the palace is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Additionally, exclusive guided tours of the East Wing are available from January to May 2025 on selected dates. Visitors should check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule, as hours may vary due to special events or royal engagements.

How to Get There

Buckingham Palace is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to reach:

• Tube: The closest stations are Victoria (Circle, District, and Victoria lines), Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines), and Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly line).
• Bus: Routes including 11, 211, and C10 stop near the palace, offering convenient access.
• Coach: Victoria Coach Station is a 10-minute walk away, ideal for those arriving by coach.
• Driving: There is no free parking near the palace, but paid options like Carrington Street and Cadogan Place car parks are a short walk away. Pre-booking parking through platforms like JustPark is advised.
• Walking: From Victoria Station, a scenic 10-minute walk through Green Park or along The Mall offers a pleasant approach to the palace.

For real-time traffic updates, apps like Waze can help drivers plan their route efficiently.

Best Time to Visit

To enjoy Buckingham Palace with fewer crowds, visit on weekdays, ideally early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The summer months (July to August) are peak season, offering pleasant weather and special exhibitions, but they attract large crowds. September may be quieter, though closures on Tuesdays and Wednesdays should be noted. The Changing of the Guard, typically held at 11:00 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays (weather permitting), is a highlight but draws significant crowds, so arriving by 10:30 AM ensures a good view. Checking the Royal Family website for ceremony schedules is recommended.

Tickets and Costs

Tickets for Buckingham Palace vary by type and are best purchased in advance due to high demand. Below are the 2025 prices (advance/on-the-day):

Ticket Type	Adult	Young Person (18-24)	Child (5-17)	Disabled	Under 5
Standard Admission	£32.00/£35.00	£20.50/£22.50	£16.00/£17.50	£16.00/£17.50	Free
Royal Day Out	£61.20/£65.70	£39.10/£41.80	£30.60/£32.80	£30.60/£32.80	Free
Standard + Garden Tour	£47.00/£50.00	£30.20/£32.20	£23.50/£25.00	£23.50/£25.00	Free

• Standard Admission: Access to the 19 State Rooms.
• Royal Day Out: Includes State Rooms, The Queen’s Gallery, and Royal Mews.
• Standard + Garden Tour: State Rooms plus a guided garden tour.
• Discounts: Groups of 15 or more receive discounts, and family tickets offer savings for 1 adult with 2 children or up to 2 adults with 4 children. A free companion ticket is available for visitors with disabilities.
• Booking: Purchase tickets via the Royal Collection Trust or authorized platforms like GetYourGuide. Advance booking is essential, especially in summer.
• Tip: Validated tickets allow free re-admission for a year, so ask a warden to stamp your ticket before leaving.

What to Expect

A visit to Buckingham Palace offers a glimpse into royal life through its 19 State Rooms, used for official ceremonies and entertaining. These rooms, reflecting the taste of King George IV, are adorned with treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Van Dyck, Canaletto, and Rembrandt, sculptures by Canova, and exquisite furniture. Highlights include the White Drawing Room, a grand reception space, and the Throne Room, featuring chairs used in coronations, including those for King Charles III and Queen Camilla in 2023.

The visit, lasting 2 to 2.5 hours, includes a free multimedia tour in nine languages, guiding you through the palace’s history and art. The tour concludes with a walk along a half-kilometer gravel path through the palace gardens, offering views of the lake and the west front of the palace. On-site facilities include accessible restrooms, a garden café for refreshments, and gift shops selling souvenirs and bottled water. Family activity bags are available for children, enhancing their experience.

Safety and Accessibility

Buckingham Palace prioritizes visitor safety and accessibility:

• Safety: All visitors undergo airport-style security checks upon arrival. A one-way system ensures smooth flow along the visitor route. Eating and drinking (except bottled water) are prohibited inside, and pushchairs must be checked in.
• Accessibility: Step-free access is available but must be pre-booked by contacting the Specialist Sales team at +44 (0)303 123 7324 or specialistsales@rct.uk. Accessible toilets and limited seating are provided. Assistance dogs are welcome, and multimedia guides offer British Sign Language and audio-descriptive options. Wardens trained as Dementia Friends assist visitors with cognitive needs. The tour spans two floors indoors and includes an outdoor gravel path, so plan accordingly.

History and Background

Buckingham Palace has been the official London residence of the British monarch since 1837, when Queen Victoria took residence. Originally built in 1703 as Buckingham House for the Duke of Buckingham, it was acquired by King George III in 1761 for Queen Charlotte. In the 19th century, architects John Nash and Edward Blore expanded it into the grand palace seen today, adding three wings around a central courtyard. With 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms, it remains a working hub for royal duties and ceremonies.

Fun Fact: When opened in 1856, the palace’s ballroom was the largest room in London, hosting grand state events.

For more historical insights, visit the palace’s visitor center or explore the Royal Collection Trust.

Nearby Attractions

The area around Buckingham Palace is rich with attractions, perfect for a full day of exploration:

• St. James’s Park: A serene park with a lake, vibrant flower beds, and pelicans, ideal for a picnic or stroll.
• The Queen’s Gallery: Displays rotating exhibitions of art from the Royal Collection, open year-round.
• The Royal Mews: Showcases royal carriages and horses, a fascinating look at royal transport.
• Westminster Abbey: A 15-minute walk away, this historic church hosts royal coronations and weddings.
• Big Ben and Houses of Parliament: Iconic landmarks reachable in 15 minutes, offering a glimpse into British governance.
• Trafalgar Square: A 10-minute walk to this vibrant square with Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery.

Combine a morning palace visit with an afternoon exploring Westminster Abbey or a leisurely walk through St. James’s Park for a memorable day.

Practical Tips

• What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes for the gravel garden path and indoor walking. Bring a light jacket or umbrella for unpredictable weather and a bottle of water, as only water is allowed inside.
• Rules: Photography is prohibited inside the State Rooms to protect artworks. Pushchairs must be checked in, and eating/drinking (except water) is not allowed.
• Arrival: Arrive 15 minutes before your timed entry slot to clear security.
• Booking: Pre-book tickets online to secure your spot and access potential discounts.
• Enhance Your Visit: Use the free multimedia guide (bring headphones for comfort) and check the official website for updates on exhibitions or events.
• Changing of the Guard: Arrive by 10:30 AM for the 11:00 AM ceremony on select days to secure a good spot.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of Buckingham Palace?

The State Rooms are open from 10 July to 28 September 2025, typically 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays in September. Check the official website for exact times.

How much does it cost to visit Buckingham Palace?

Standard admission is £32.00 (advance) or £35.00 (on the day) for adults, with reduced rates for young persons (£20.50/£22.50), children (£16.00/£17.50), and disabled visitors (£16.00/£17.50). Under 5s enter free.

Is Buckingham Palace suitable for children?

Yes, children under 5 enter free, and family activity bags are provided. The palace offers engaging highlights for kids, such as the Throne Room.

Are there any discounts available for Buckingham Palace?

Group discounts apply for 15 or more people, and family tickets offer savings for 1 adult with 2 children or up to 2 adults with 4 children.

How long does it take to visit Buckingham Palace?

A typical visit takes 2 to 2.5 hours, covering the State Rooms and garden path.

Is photography allowed at Buckingham Palace?

Photography is not permitted inside the State Rooms but is allowed in the gardens.

Are there guided tours available at Buckingham Palace?

Free multimedia tours in nine languages are included with admission. Guided tours, including East Wing tours, are available on select dates.

What’s the best way to get to Buckingham Palace from the city center?

Take the tube to Victoria, Green Park, or Hyde Park Corner, or use bus routes 11, 211, or C10. Walking from Victoria Station takes about 10 minutes.

Is Buckingham Palace wheelchair accessible?

Yes, step-free access, accessible toilets, and specialized guides are available. Contact the Specialist Sales team at +44 (0)303 123 7324 for arrangements.

Are there dining options near Buckingham Palace?

The on-site garden café offers refreshments, and nearby Victoria and The Mall have numerous cafes and restaurants.