Buckingham Palace Palace

Address: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom

Website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/the-state-rooms-buckingham-palace

Hours: Seasonal - State Rooms open to visitors in summer (dates vary); check official site for current opening period

Admission: State Rooms (when open to public in summer) adult tickets typically ~£30-£40; exterior viewing is free

Buckingham Palace is the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch in central London. The building originated as Buckingham House in the early 18th century and was later expanded into the present palace; it has served as the principal royal residence since the 19th century.

Highlights for visitors are the grand State Rooms used for ceremonial events, the Royal Mews housing carriages and vehicles, and the palace gardens which extend behind the building. The forecourt and façade are focal points for public ceremonies such as the Changing of the Guard.

Historically the site was enlarged and remodelled in the 19th century and has hosted state occasions, receptions and royal residences since Queen Victoria made it the main royal home in 1837. The palace also serves administrative functions for the monarchy.

Located in the City of Westminster, the palace fronts The Mall and is a short walk from St James’s Park, Green Park and central London transport links.

• Changing of the Guard: The Changing of the Guard is a scheduled ceremony performed regularly on the forecourt - times vary seasonally so check the official schedule before visiting.
• Summer opening: The State Rooms are open to the public in summer for a timed visit; tickets sell out quickly during peak season so pre-booking is recommended.

What to See#

• State Rooms: A series of formally arranged rooms and galleries used for state ceremonies and official entertaining, open to the public in summer months.
• Royal Mews: The royal stables turned public exhibition and working garage for royal vehicles; houses royal carriages and is separately open to visitors.
• Palace Gardens: The large private gardens behind the palace that stretch over about 40 acres and contain lake, flowerbeds and private royal spaces not normally open to daily visitors.

Buckingham Palace is in central London a short walk from Green Park tube station (Piccadilly, Victoria and Jubilee lines) - roughly 3-5 minutes on foot - and about 10-15 minutes on foot from Victoria station; St James’s Park (Circle and District lines) is also a 5-7 minute walk. It is well within central London and an easy short walk or cab ride from nearby central points (e.g., Charing Cross ~1 km).

• If you want to see the Changing of the Guard, check the official schedule before you go and arrive at least 30-45 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot along the Mall or Victoria Memorial, as space fills fast.
• If visiting the State Rooms, plan for the summer opening (they are only open to the public for limited weeks each year) and buy timed tickets online in advance to avoid sold-out days.
• Pair your visit with the Queen's Gallery or the Royal Mews next door - both are frequently overlooked by people focused solely on the palace façade and offer substantial displays of royal art and carriages.