The Monach’s official London residence and a working royal palace.
What is the appeal of Buckingham Palace? A wonderful palace to visit and take in the splendor of art, gardens, and staterooms.
Buckingham Palace is open to the public for 10 weeks each year during the summer. The exact dates vary from year to year.
8 Top Attractions at Buckingham Palace
- The State Rooms
- Changing of the Guard
- The Gardens
- Fine Art
- The Grand Staircase
- The Throne Room
- The Royal Mews
- Over 350 Clocks
All About Buckingham Place
| BUCKINGHAM PALACE | |
|---|---|
| KIDS FRIENDLY? | Age 5+ |
| HOURS | The palace is usually open each year for 10 weeks in the summer |
| LOCATION | Buckingham Palace Road SW1A |
| WHAT'S THERE | Staterooms, fine art, gardens, the guards |
| UNDERGROUND | St. James's Park (Circle, District) Victoria (Circle, District, Victoria) |
| BUS | Buckingham Palace Road |
| TRAIN | Victoria |
| VISIT TIME | Allow two hours |
| ENTRY COST * | Adult: £30 Concessions: £19.50 Child: £16.50 Under 5: Free |
| SAVINGS | Booking direct on the Palace website, rather than though a third party |
| GUIDED TOURS | Audio guided tour in eight languages, with a children's version |
| SELFIE TIME | Well . . . you never know who you might see 🙂 |
| QUEUE JUMPING | Advance booking is recommended to avoid queues |
| WHEELCHAIRS | Yes, but must be pre-booked |
| FACILITIES | Shop & toilets, both at the end of the tour |
 |
Is It Just a Rather Big House?
With 775 staterooms, Buckingham Palace is a significant royal palace, home to the British Monarch and the administrative offices of the crown. 19 of the staterooms are open to the public during the summer months. And yes, it is a big house!
Buckingham Palace is the location for weekly meetings between the monarch and the prime minister of the day. The Palace is used for ceremonial occasions for visiting heads of state.
The original Buckingham House was converted into a palace by John Nash, for George IV, although he never resided in the building. Queen Victoria was the first to live at Buckingham Palace and she added an extra wing to include guest bedrooms.
The palace is filled with rare and valuable porcelain, some of which is on public view.
Buckingham Palace is very busy during the season and it is essential to book your tickets in advance. Tickets are timed, so make sure you are there in good time. Guided tours are available on some days, but be aware these sell out very quickly.
Audio tours are available in eight languages and there is a special edition for children.
At the end of the tour, there is a large gift shop, in the Palace gardens.
What is There for Children to Do?
There is a child’s audio guide, suitable for aged seven to 11. Outside, there are nature trails to enjoy, and inside a family room with some activities.
Selfies and Pictures
Well, you never know who you might meet! Outside, the traditional selfie is with one of the sentry guards. You are not allowed to take photographs in the State Rooms.
Food and Drink
Bottled water is acceptable in the Place, but no food can be consumed. There are places to eat close to the Palace.
Disabled Facilities
There is wheelchair access at Buckingham Palace, but it needs to be booked in advance.
How to get to Buckingham Palace
The closest underground tube stations are at St. James’s Park and Westminster, both on the Circle and District lines, or Victoria.
Buses stop on Buckingham Palace Road.
WHAT IS CLOSE TO BUCKINGHAM PALACE?
St. James’s Park
The Royal Mews
Guards Museum
* Entry costs are an indication and may change.