buckingham palace tour schedule

The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour

Fancy yourself as royalty as you tour the state rooms, throne room and royal collection..

Ready to dive deeper into the Royal Family? Then don't miss your chance to be enthralled by the stories surrounding the monarchy as you tour the stately rooms in Buckingham Palace and surrounding areas like historic St. James's Park and the Mall. Your guide will tell stories about the former country house purchased for Queen Charlotte that is now the official home of King Charles III. An unforgettable morning getting to know the British Royals is waiting for you!

• Meet your guide at St. James Square
• St. James Park
• Royal Gates

Buckingham Palace

Palace state rooms, throne room.

• End inside Buckingham Palace

After meeting your small group and local guide at St. James Square, you'll head to the historic and stunning St. James's Park for a stroll through the trees and along the pond as your guide wows you with remarkable stories about the former hunting ground of King Henry VIII. You will also visit the Mall as you imagine royal carriages go by. Then, you will make your way into the most famous Royal Palace in London, up the grand staircase of Buckingham Palace, as one of only a few who manage to get tickets.

Buckingham Palace Tour Description

Your 2.5-hour tour includes:

Walking tour of St. James Park and the Mall

Admission ticket to Buckingham Palace

Audio guide for palace tour

A friendly, local guide

St. James Park and the Mall

This luscious 57-acre park is such an oasis in the bustling concrete jungle of London. But there’s more to it than just serenity. It’s known past dates back to a 13th-century leper colony. Fast forward to the 16th century and King Henry VIII fortified the area against repeated flooding so he could use it for his hunting lodge.

The Mall, which is the main road used by the Changing of the Guard and the Royal Family during public processionals, also has an important role from history. The transformation of this whole area as an important part of the Buckingham Palace property will come to life as your guide explains its unique history.

The palace waiting for you at the end of the Mall is what you came to see. Your guide will lead you to the correct entrance and verify your entry tickets, so you don’t have to worry about getting inside. Since no tour guides are allowed inside Buckingham Palace, they’ll make sure you’re set with your audio guide and bid you farewell.

While most of the palace is not open to the public, for a few weeks out of the year you can explore some of the most palatial rooms of the British monarchy. This part of your self-guided tour of Buckingham Palace will lead you through the ornate State Rooms. These are where the Royal Family entertain or meet with private guests.

You’ll see rooms like the White Drawing Room, the Ballroom, and the Throne Room. All of which have world-class paintings and vintage furniture—some of which have existed since the 1800s!

The room that interests most guests at Buckingham Palace is the Throne Room. Your audio guide will help you understand the importance and history of those stately chairs (Chairs of Estate) that were even used by Queen Victoria! It’s an incredible room to stand in as you feel the centuries of history and tradition that built a lasting empire.

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An Exceptional St. James Park and Buckingham Palace Tour with Sophie and The Tour Guy

Sophie's guided walking tour through St. James Park and along The Mall to Buckingham Palace was one of the highlights of our trip to London. Her wealth of knowledge about the history and significance of these iconic London landmarks enriched our experience. Sophie's engaging storytelling made the past come alive, and her passion for the city's history was evident. She expertly navigated us through St. James Park's serene beauty and led us to Buckingham Palace with enthusiasm. Sophie's friendly and accommodating demeanor made the tour not just informative but also incredibly enjoyable. Highly recommend Sophie for an exceptional London tour! Thank you to the The Tour Guy!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Please wear comfortable shoes as this is a walking tour.

Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?

Photography is not allowed inside the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace, which is where most of your tour occurs.

Does this include a guided tour of the palace?

Due to palace restrictions, no tour guides are allowed to accompany groups into the palace. After your guided tour of St. James Park and the Mall, your guide will lead you to the correct entrance, verify your tickets, and provide you with your audio guides for your self-guided tour.

Will we get to see the Changing of the Guard?

This tour has a timed entry at mid-morning, which means you'll be inside the palace during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. You can also book our Changing of the Guard and Westminster tour if you’re really hoping to witness that ceremony.

Can I bring a stroller or backpack?

There is a security check before entering Buckingham Palace. You'll need to store any strollers or large bags at the check-in before entering security. Smaller bags and purses are allowed. Water bottles are allowed, but food and drink cannot be consumed inside the palace.

Why don't I see any availability for this tour?

Buckingham Palace is only open for a few weeks and certain days in July and August. If you’re interested in the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, check out our Westminster tours that run all year long.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket & British Royalty Guided Tour

• Guarantee access to Buckingham Palace during the super-busy summer opening weeks
• Advance booking secures your tour of the royal residence
• Get a more intimate glimpse into London during a walking tour
• See other highlights including St. James' Park and The Mall
• See itinerary
• Expert local guide
• Guided walking tour
• Audio guide for Buckingham Palace
• Entrance ticket for Buckingham Palace
• Headsets where appropriate
• Entry/Admission - Buckingham Palace
• Hotel pick-up/drop-off
• Duke of York Monument, St. James's, London SW1Y 5AJ, UK Meeting Point: Duke of York column at Waterloo Place. This is the tall column with the statue on top. Meeting Point Details: By the Duke of York Column, Waterloo Place, 9 Carlton Terrace, London SW1Y 5AJ. This is the tall column with a statue on top. Arriving by tube: Take the tube to Piccadilly Circus and take exit No. 3 onto Regent Street/St James. Walk south down Regent Street towards St James Park (do not walk north towards Oxford Street). Waterloo Place is at the end of Regent Street. You will see the tall column with a statue on top. You can also arrive via Charing Cross Station. Walk down the Mall towards Buckingham Palace, you will see the statue on your right at the top of some steps.
• Spur Road, Spur Rd, London SW1A 1AA, UK Buckingham Palace
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance
• Unable to accommodate strollers or baby carriages
• Photography is not permitted within Buckingham Palace but is allowed within the gardens
• This tour involves a reasonable amount of walking, and stairs.
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• *Special for 2023! The outfits worn by Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the Coronation will go on display as part of the Summer Opening of Buckingham Palace.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Buckingham Palace

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Duke of York Monument St. James's, London SW1Y 5AJ, UK Meeting Point: Duke of York column at Waterloo Place. This is the tall column with the statue on top. Meeting Point Details: By the Duke of York Column, Waterloo Place, 9 Carlton Terrace, London SW1Y 5AJ. This is the tall column with a statue on top. Arriving by tube: Take the tube to Piccadilly Circus and take exit No. 3 onto Regent Street/St James. Walk south down Regent Street towards St James Park (do not walk north towards Oxford Street). Waterloo Place is at the end of Regent Street. You will see the tall column with a statue on top. You can also arrive via Charing Cross Station. Walk down the Mall towards Buckingham Palace, you will see the statue on your right at the top of some steps. See address & details
• Pass by St. James's Park
• 1 Buckingham Palace Stop: 2 hours - Admission included Then, approach the gates of Buckingham Palace, arguably the world’s most famous royal residence. Open for only two months a year, the opportunity to visit the State Apartments is a rare and exciting experience. With an audio guide to direct your exploration, you’ll delve into the lavish chambers of the British Monarchy: marvel at the opulent décor and admire rooms swathed in sumptuous upholstery, chandeliers, and priceless art. See, too, important pieces from the royal collection such as Sèvres porcelain and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world. Read more
• You'll end at Spur Road Spur Rd, London SW1A 1AA, UK Buckingham Palace See address & details

• 314leem245 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Good Experience. We had several chances to see the guard and our guide had a lot of knowledge, was entertaining and answered so many of our groups questions. Read more Written April 17, 2024
• 978larryw 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles London 2024 David was spectacular. Very informative. The meeting place was easy to find. Would recommend this tour highly to anyone. Read more Written April 17, 2024
• steventC6945TD 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Saw the changing of the guards and learned about the history of it. Entertaining and informative tour! Ian was absolutely great! He had plenty of great stories and history about the royal family and the guards. Read more Written April 14, 2024
• K1436VDjosephf 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles OK Event Disappointing could not see into the court yard good from the monument. If you have the time swing by for a Quick Look. Enjoy Read more Written April 13, 2024
• sunset2261 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour for the money You can go watch this on your own, but the guides know exactly where to stand and gave you lots of information you would not know on your own Read more Written April 11, 2024
• P1497POrobb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A thoroughly interesting tour An interesting and engaging walking tour around the centre of London. Wasn’t too much of a walk but took in many building and features. Dave was a great guide who was happy to go “off script” to include other historical happenings and info. Read more Written April 9, 2024
• memH2225MN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles great experience with David the tour guide. David was great! We loved all the information and stories about the royalty he was funny and informative. He was knowledgeable, upbeat and engaging. Read more Written April 6, 2024
• 353jaanar 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Early access with David & Barney the beefeater David was excellent, loved his wicked humor and great tips of places to visit. We got early access to London/ White Tower and timing was perfect, it was quite and not crowdy. Place got heavily crowded after noon. Also the beefeater got excellent sense of humor, we loved every minute, almost hoped it would have lasted longer. Highly recommended! Read more Written April 6, 2024
• N4772CIheathers 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tower of London early access with beefeater Tower of London early entry with beefeater. David was our group guide and met us early to give us a talk before delivering us to a secret backdoor to meet our beefeater. Very knowledgeable and entertaining! Read more Written April 5, 2024
• heavylee 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great tour with a great guide. Had an awesome experience with Marc. Very interesting stories and descriptions at each stop. The headsets were very helpful always be able to hear Marc. Very enjoyable and a great way to spend the morning. Read more Written April 3, 2024
• Y2695MHbenjaming 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles David was great!! David was sensational. He must not have noticed the freezing rain, as he did not miss a beat. Answered all questions, ignored those making statements and even lent us his Starbucks card as we were 30 min early, as was he!!! Read more Written March 30, 2024
• Fearless-Soul 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Well worth your time! David was absolutely phenomenal! He was extremely knowledgeable and made history come alive. Well worth your time to get some back knowledge on the history and set the stage for the rest of our time here! Thank you David.. my daughter and I had a great time! Read more Written March 29, 2024
• Nicholas K 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Trudy is the best Trudy is the best tour guide you can get, she is so very thorough and knowledgeable. This tour was great with her! Thank you very much Trudy. Read more Written March 29, 2024
• betsycS8071XV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Worth it! David was great! Very helpful and knowledgeable! Provided information on the tower as well as great recommendations for greater London. Read more Written March 28, 2024
• 876joelo 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent Tour Trudy, our tour guide was excellent!! She kept adding facts and exciting stories to the tour. Everyone in our group was happy with the tour. Kudos to Trudy. Read more Written March 26, 2024

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A Guide to Visiting Buckingham Palace

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For anyone visiting London for the first time, Buckingham Palace is a top London attraction to visit. This iconic London landmark, situated in the heart of the city, stands as a testament to centuries of tradition and power and has served as the official residence of the British Royal Family since the reign of Queen Victoria. Its magnificent facade and impressive architecture hold a rich tapestry of history, and culture that captivates visitors from around the globe.

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Usually, the Palace gates are as close as visitors can get, however for avid Royal enthusiasts Buckingham Palace opens its doors every summer and you can book tickets to visit the splendid State Rooms. In this guide, we share with you visiting tips for Buckingham Palace and take you on a journey where royalty meets history.

Ticket info for you

table of content

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is located in London in the central zone 1 area of the city. It is located close to Green Park tube station and has served as the official London Royal residence since 1837. This grand Palace was built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703 and has 775 rooms including 19 State Rooms and 52 bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms.

Every summer Buckingham Palace opens its doors to the prestigious State Rooms , usually used by the reigning King for State Banquets, events, and receptions during the rest of the year.

Where is Buckingham Palace and which is the best way to arrive at it?

Buckingham Palace is in the heart of Westminster, Central London. The best way to get there depends on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation, but here are some general recommendations:

The nearest tube stations are Victoria, Green Park, St. James’s Park, and Hyde Park Corner. From any of these stations, Buckingham Palace is just a short walk away. Green Park station is particularly convenient for a scenic walk through the park to the palace.

If you’re staying in central London, walking could be a great option as you’ll see more of the city’s sights along the way. The palace is within walking distance from many central areas.

Is possible to visit the interior of Buckingham Palace?

Buckingham Palace opens its State Rooms to the public each summer, usually from July to September, while the King is away. During this period, visitors can explore the palace’s opulent rooms and view the Royal Collection’s treasures, including art, furniture, and more. It’s essential to book tickets in advance due to high demand.

This year, Buckingham Palace will be open from 11 July until 29 September

Secure your Tickets now

Must-See Highlights of Buckingham Palace

1. changing the guard.

The Household Troops have guarded the Royal Palaces since 1660 and the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place over three locations including Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks. The ceremony takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and begins at 10.45. Visitors will see the current soldiers on duty, the Old Guard, relieved by a new detachment of troops, the New Guard.

The Changing of the Guard takes place with a full military band playing traditional march songs and is an opportunity to see the famous Foot Guard uniforms, which feature the iconic red tunics and black bear-skin hats.

2. Buckingham Palace State Rooms

If you ever wondered what Buckingham Palace looks like inside then the Buckingham Palace State Room Tour will not disappoint you. Visitors work their way through the Palace tour viewing rooms adorned with ornate ceilings and sparkling chandeliers during the tour.

As part of the tour, you can see some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including Sèvres porcelain, and exquisite English and French furniture. The complimentary multi-media guide provides additional information about Palace history, adding to the experience as you walk around the rooms.

Highlights of the Buckingham Palace tour included the luxurious throne room featuring the monogrammed thrones of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The Picture Gallery, featuring impressive paintings of previous monarchs including Queen Victoria is also a wonderful sight. The tour takes you through many magnificently decorated rooms including the exquisite White Drawing Room and the expansive and splendid Ballroom, which often has interesting Royal exhibits such as King Charles and Queen Camilla’s Coronation gowns on display.

The tour ends at the entrance to the Gardens of Buckingham Palace where there is a children’s activity room and a garden cafe where you can enjoy refreshments. As you leave you can also pick up souvenirs from the gift shop before leaving the Palace grounds.

Buckingham Palace Tickets

3. The Royal Mews

Located just behind the Palace, the Royal Mews is responsible for organizing any travel needed by The King and other members of the Royal Family. As visitors, you can enter the Royal Mews and see a variety of Royal carriages and cars used by Royalty. You can expect to see the carriage Princess Diana took to her wedding to King Charles in 1981 and the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, which was built for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

The highlight of the Royal Mews is the stunning 260-year-old Gold State Coach used for King Charles III’s Coronation in 2023. You can also experience sitting in a replica Semi-State Landau carriage and children can practice tacking up a wooden pony.

Royal Mews Tickets

4. The Kings Gallery (former Queen’s Gallery)

The King’s Gallery (formerly The Queen’s Gallery) at Buckingham Palace is a premier space for art exhibitions from the Royal Collection, featuring works by masters like Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt. Opened in 1962, it showcases a rotating selection of paintings, drawings, and sculptures collected by the monarchy over centuries. Located on the palace’s south side, the gallery occupies the site of a chapel destroyed in World War II. It offers a unique glimpse into royal artistic tastes and history through its exhibitions. A visit here is essential for art enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural heritage of the British monarchy.

King’s Gallery Tickets

Tickets & Tours for Buckingham Palace

Exploring the Buckingham Palace is a dream for many. Fortunately, with various tickets and tours available, visitors can experience the palace’s historic state rooms, the Royal Mews, and the Queen’s Gallery, each offering a unique glimpse into royal life and art.

Explore Buckingham Palace: Tickets for Every Section

Tours of buckingham palace and westminster, good to know before you visit the buckingham palace state rooms.

• If you are visiting London in the summer, buy your Buckingham Palace ticket s in advance.
• Photography is not permitted within the State Rooms.
• Be prepared to stand during the Buckingham Palace tour, as there are limited seats during the tour. However, at the end of the tour, you can sit in the Palace Gardens and the garden cafe.
• Prams and pushchairs are not permitted on the Buckingham Palace State Room Tour. Children are welcome however you have to check your pushchair in at the entrance.
• Arrive 30 minutes before your time slot and expect airport-style bag checks at the entrance.
• Food and drinks are not permitted inside except for bottled water.
• Complimentary multimedia guides are offered as you enter and provide interesting information as you walk through the rooms. There is also a children’s audio guide that includes games and activities.
• The toilets and baby change facilities are at the end of the tour.
• There is no dress code to enter any of the Royal attractions and casual wear, including trainers is permitted.

Is the visit to Buckingham Palace worth it?

Absolutely! Catching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a must-do in London, and it’s free all year round. Just seeing Buckingham Palace from the outside is an awesome experience because it’s such an iconic British site. We were also lucky enough to tour the inside. The State Rooms, used for big royal events, are breathtaking. We were amazed by the famous thrones and the gorgeous rooms.

Don’t miss the Royal Mews, too. It’s where the royal carriages are kept and is fascinating, especially for kids. It’s a great way to see a part of royal history up close. Our visit was incredibly memorable – we loved every moment of it!

Other things to visit around Buckingham Palace

• St James Park : Located opposite Buckingham Palace, this beautiful Royal Park is the ideal place to stroll in summer. It is also home to a flock of pelicans and has a great children’s playground.
• Trafalgar Square : Located at the end of The Mall, Trafalgar Square is a short walk away.
• The National Gallery : Iconic London museum located in Trafalgar Square, housing an extensive collection of European paintings spanning from the Middle Ages to 1900.
• Downing Street : While Downing Street itself is not open to the public due to security reasons, visiting its vicinity offers a unique glimpse into the heart of UK political life.
• Westminster Abbey and Big Ben : Located a short walk away from the Palace you can visit the iconic Westminster Abbey , Big Ben , and the Houses of Parliament.

FAQ about The Buckingham Palace

What can i do at buckingham palace.

In the summer (usually from mid-July to the end of September), when the King is on holiday, you can tour the inside of Buckingham Palace. Otherwise, you can admire the paintings in the King’s Gallery, visit the Royal Mews (royal stables), or watch the Changing the Guard ceremony.

Is the Changing of the Guard every day?

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace has a varying schedule, usually taking place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. However, during the summer months, it occurs daily, weather permitting. The ceremony does not take place in the rain, so it’s advisable to check the official schedule or the Royal Family’s official website for the most current information before planning a visit.

How do I know if the King is in Buckingham Palace??

You can often tell if the King is in Buckingham Palace by looking for the Royal Standard flag . When the King is present, the Royal Standard, a flag that represents the sovereignty of the monarch of the United Kingdom, is flown above Buckingham Palace.

Buckingham Palace serves as the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch, so it’s used for many official events and receptions throughout the year.

However, it’s known that the Royal Family traditionally spends the summer at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, which is why Buckingham Palace is typically open to the public for tours during the summer months. This tradition suggests that the King, like previous monarchs, would likely be away from Buckingham Palace during this period.

How many people work in Buckingham Palace?

The exact number of people working in Buckingham Palace can vary, but it’s reported to be around 800 staff members. This includes a wide range of roles such as administrative staff, domestic workers, kitchen staff, and maintenance personnel, among others, all contributing to the day-to-day operations and upkeep of the palace. This number can fluctuate based on the season, events, and specific needs of the Royal Family.

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The 5 best sightseeing tours of buckingham palace.

See one of Britain's top attractions on a walking, biking, bus or private taxi tour.

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

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A tour of Buckingham Palace is a must-do on your next London vacation.

On a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Come on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Sunday morning to see the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area while sharing  knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a two-hour tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony, while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the corner of Piccadilly and Arlington Street (between The Ritz and The Wolseley), ending at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Windsor Castle & Buckingham Palace Tour

Price: From $164

Duration: 8.5 hours

Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle. Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines. The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection – the ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

Full-day London with Changing of the Guard and Private Cruise

Price: From $158; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee

Duration: 9 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony, and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

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The London Essentials Bike Tour

Price: From $38

Duration: 3.5 hours

Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were really impressed by the knowledge of the guide. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

View & Book Tickets: GetYourGuide

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $461

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer based in London. She grew up just outside the city and worked around the corner from Buckingham Palace for several years. She loves exploring the surrounding area, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

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Welcome to the most famous palace in the world

Our website brings you Information and Facts about Buckingham Palace including how to get there, when to visit the Palace, the History of the Buckingham Palace, Interesting Facts about the Buckingham Palace, Buckingham Palace Tours and not forgetting the world famous Changing of the Guard.

Please Note: Our website is not the official website of the the royal collection trust and have no link or association with buckingham palace, the King or the Royal family nor is it operated with their endorsement. It is, however, provided by dedicated royalists for your information and is the UKs oldest and much loved unoffical guide.

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22nd March 2024

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Tickets & Tours

Parts of Buckingham Palace are now open to the public including the Queens Gallery and Gardens.

The State Rooms of the Palace are open for visitors to visit throughout the ‘Annual Summer Opening’ in July, August and September. The rooms are lavishly furnished with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection.

The Buckingham Palace Gardens, also referred to as the Royal Gardens, are a vast and meticulously maintained landscape located at the rear of the palace. Covering an area of approximately 39 acres, the gardens offer a serene and tranquil escape from the bustling city.

Changing the Guard

The traditional ceremony of the old guard changing with the new.

Changing of the Guard is one of the oldest and most recognizable ceremonies connected with Buckingham Palace. The correct name of the ceremony known as Changing the Guard is actually Guard Mounting. In this process a New Guard exchanges duty with the Old Guard and both Guards are drawn from one of the regiments of Foot Guards.

The Royal Mews

Recent news

Buckingham palace interesting facts.

The Centre Piece of Britain’s Constitutional Monarchy

Buckingham Palace is home to over 775 rooms, 19 of these are State rooms along with 52 official royal bedrooms and guest rooms. The staff themselves, have an impressive 188 bedrooms, 92 offices and a lavish 78 bathrooms. Still very much a working building it is the center piece of Britain’s constitutional monarchy which includes the everyday duties of The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh as well as their immediate family. Buckingham Palace was first opened to the general public in 1993 and it is opened every year between April and September since.

Banquets & Ceremonies

State banquets also take place in the main Ballroom of Buckingham Palace; these formal dinners take place on the first evening of a state visit by a visiting Head of State. On these occasions, 150 or more guests in formal “white tie and decorations”, including tiaras for women, may dine off gold plate.

The largest and most formal reception at Buckingham Palace takes place every November, when the Queen entertains members of the foreign diplomatic corps resident in London. On this occasion, all the state rooms are in use, as the Royal Family proceed through them beginning through the great north doors of the Picture Gallery.

As Nash had envisaged, all the large, double-mirrored doors stand open, reflecting the numerous crystal chandeliers and sconces, causing a deliberate optical illusion of space and light.

Smaller ceremonies such as the reception of new ambassadors take place in the “1844 Room”. Here too the Queen holds small lunch parties, and often meetings of the Privy Council. Larger lunch parties often take place in the curved and domed Music Room, or the State Dining Room.On all formal occasions the ceremonies are attended by the Yeomen of the Guard in their historic uniforms, and other officers of the court such as the Lord Chamberlain. Since the bombing of the palace chapel in World War II, royal christenings have sometimes taken place in the Music Room. The Queen’s first three children were all baptised here in a special gold font. Prince William was also christened in the Music Room. However, his brother, Prince Harry, was christened at St George’s Chapel, Windsor.

Buckingham Palace

Royal Family

King Charles Is Breaking Royal Tradition At Buckingham Palace

The London landmark remains the monarch’s primary residence.

King Charles is about to break a major royal tradition at Buckingham Palace. After more than five years of renovations, the reigning monarch will open the palace’s East Wing to the public for the first time in history throughout July and August 2024.

The East Wing encompasses the front of the historic residence, which includes the Principal Floor and the famous Buckingham Palace balcony, where the royal family has gathered for public appearances since the 1800s.

The forthcoming tours, priced at £75.00 ($93) per person, will allow visitors to discover the Wing’s history and explore highlights from the royal art collection.

Designed by architect Edward Blore, the East Wing was constructed between 1847 and 1849 during Queen Victoria’s expansion of Buckingham Palace. The interiors were inspired by King George IV’s (Victoria’s uncle) love of Asian art and design, and the Wing’s principal rooms, including the Yellow Drawing Room and the Centre Room, are decked out with Chinese-themed decor.

At the suggestion of Prince Albert, the Buckingham Palace balcony faces the historic Mall , a design decision that ensures the royal family is visible to the British public during important events, including Coronation and Jubilee celebrations .

This isn’t the only long-standing tradition King Charles is set to break at a royal residence this summer. Throughout July and August, visitors will also be permitted to tour the once-private quarters of Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, for the first time.

The castle is traditionally the British monarch’s summertime destination and has been the site of many major royal milestones, such as the September 2022 passing of Queen Elizabeth II , who died at the age of 96 at Balmoral after 70 years on the throne.

“For the first time since the castle was completed in 1855, we have been granted permission to take you on a private tour with our experienced guides,” the official Balmoral site reads. “You will learn about the origins of the Castle and how it has been loved by generations of the Royal family.”

Tickets, which have since sold out, set guests back £100 ($126) for standard admission, while the more expensive afternoon tea package was priced at £150 ($189.51).

The ultimate royal travel guide to Britain, from Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle

T he British landscape is awash with royal properties, from stately palaces to historic castles. These include three of the monarch’s official royal residences; Buckingham Palace , Windsor Castle , and Edinburgh’s Palace of Holyroodhouse. 

But while these historic buildings may have the level of grandeur you might imagine when you picture the Royal family at home, in truth, royals are only ‘resident’ in these buildings on occasion. For some, they are even considered business premises – though they rather put the rest of our offices to shame. 

When it comes to days off from official business, members of the Royal family are more likely to be found in their private homes, such as the King and Queen’s Highgrove House in Gloucestershire, or the Prince and Princess of Wales’s family home of Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park. 

While the private homes are exactly that – private – there are plenty of places around Britain where you can walk in the footsteps of the Royal family and get a small glimpse into their lives. Here are some of the best. 

Buckingham Palace, London

Let’s start with the most famous of all royal residences: Buckingham Palace. Elizabeth II largely regarded it as her office, spending weekdays there attending to official business before retreating to Windsor at the weekends.

Now, of course, the palace – whose origins can be traced back to the reign of King James I in the early 17 th century, but which has been the London home of British monarchs since 1837 when Queen Victoria moved in – is the King’s official London residence.

Buckingham Palace is the setting for royal and national celebrations and commemorations; who can forget catching a glimpse of Royal family members from the famous balcony? It’s also where the monarch hosts dignitaries and official banquets – on September 18 2022, the King held a reception for world leaders at the palace on the eve of his mother’s funeral.

As it is a working palace, Buckingham Palace is only open to the public at set times. For 10 weeks each summer, its grand state rooms are opened up. During this time, visitors can see the crimson-and-gold Throne Room, the Royal Mews, and the enormous Ballroom, where all those extravagant state banquets are held. In addition, there are exclusive guided tours at select dates throughout the year.

Those without a ticket or travelling at the wrong time of year can still watch the spectacle of the Changing of the Guard, which takes place outside the palace several days a week at 10.45am (weather dependent but check the schedule ). 

The ceremony has its roots in the reign of King Henry VI and sees the New Guard of soldiers – wearing the customary bearskin hats – march to Buckingham Palace from St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks accompanied by music. They parade in front of the palace and relieve the ‘Old Guard’ (the soldiers on duty). 

If you are lucky and the King is in residence (the Royal Standard flag will be flying) then there will be an even higher number of sentries than normal taking part in the ceremony.

How to do it

Buckingham Palace (0303 123 7300) is open for 10 weeks each summer (July 14–September 24 2023). The Goring (read our review here ) has double rooms from £710 including breakfast.

Windsor Castle, Windsor

At the start of the Covid pandemic, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip retreated to this castle on the banks of the River Thames to shield with 22 staff members in what became known as ‘HMS Bubble’. After Prince Philip’s death in April 2021, the late Queen remained at Windsor; indeed, she never spent another night at Buckingham Palace.

The castle was originally built for William the Conqueror to defend London from western approaches, but it became a royal palace under King Henry I. Subsequent monarchs extended the palace with its most ambitious makeover undertaken by King Charles II who wanted to emulate the opulence of his cousin Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.

As well as seeing the rich interiors of the castle, visitors can pay their respects to the late Queen by visiting her final resting place within the King George VI Memorial Chapel inside St George’s Chapel.

In 2022, the Prince and Princess of Wales moved to nearby Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park with their three children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis – who attend school locally. It may well be that they will eventually move into the castle itself.

Windsor Castle (0303 123 7300) is open daily (summer). Castle Hotel Windsor (read our review here ) has double rooms from £132 including breakfast.

Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh

The King’s official residence in Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a rather grand building that sits at the opposite end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to the castle. The palace has links with many famous figures from Scottish history – including Bonnie Prince Charlie, who set up court here in 1745 – but the person most visitors want to hear about is Mary, Queen of Scots. Her bedroom can be reached via a winding staircase in the north-west tower of the palace, and is a delight to discover with its low doorway (despite Mary being around 6ft-tall), decorative oak ceiling and painted frieze.

The reigning monarch stays at the palace every year during Holyrood Week (or Royal Week) from late June to early July. During this time they take part in the symbolic Ceremony of the Keys in which the monarch is handed the keys to the city of Edinburgh by the Lord Provost amid much pomp and ceremony.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse (0303 123 7306) is open daily July-Sept; it’s closed Tue-Wed in all other months. Cheval Old Town Chambers (read our review here ) has double rooms from £190 including breakfast.

Highgrove House, Gloucestershire

When they are not on official duties, the King and Queen love nothing better than to return to their countryside home of Highgrove in the Cotswolds. As the house is a private home, you can’t peek behind its neoclassical façade, but tours of the exquisite gardens – which Charles has dedicated himself to creating since buying the property in 1980 – are lovely. 

An experienced guide will take you through the gardens, which are a real passion project of His Majesty. You will then be led to the Ante Room, where bespoke Highgrove products – including food and drink made from produce grown here – can be bought and artworks by the King himself admired. This is all followed by cream tea in the Orchard Room, making it an idyllic way to spend an afternoon.

Highgrove is open on select dates for tours between April and September. Calcot & Spa (read the review here ) has double rooms from £364 including breakfast.

Llwynywermod, Llandovery

The Royal family also has a Welsh home. When he was Prince of Wales, Charles bought the 192-acre estate of Llwynywermod in Carmarthenshire, Wales, in 2006. Comprising a farmhouse building, where he and Camilla would regularly holiday, and three cottages, Charles soon set about renovating the house and its adjoining properties in a greener way, using locally sourced materials. 

On Charles’ ascension to the throne, the property was passed on to William, the new Prince of Wales, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who also have a strong affection for the Welsh countryside, having spent some of the early years of their marriage living in Anglesey.

What’s special about here is that two of the cottages are available for holiday lets – North Range, for instance, is a beautiful whitewashed converted barn that sleeps six guests across three bedrooms and comes with a flagstone floor, open fire, Welsh furniture and lots of character. The smaller West Range sleeps four guests.

North Range and West Range can be booked through the Duchy of Cornwall (01579 346 473) and cost from £1,225 per week.

Balmoral, Aberdeenshire

Elizabeth II spent her final weeks in Balmoral and this palace in the Highlands was reputedly her favourite home. 

She is not the only royal to have felt an affinity for the place. Queen Victoria, who fell in love with the Highlands during her very first visit in 1842, was the first monarch to call it home. She and Albert loved to escape public life here, embarking on expeditions incognito through the Highlands. 

The late Queen spent every summer at Balmoral (August–October) and she would regularly be joined by other members of the Royal family. When the monarch is not in residence, the site is open to visitors. 

Although you can only see a small section of the castle’s interiors – including the ballroom where Ghillies Balls have historically been held – it’s the majestic setting amid acres of greenery with views across to the Cairngorms that makes a visit here worthwhile. 

The Royal family are considered locals in the nearby village of Ballater and are regularly seen attending services at nearby Crathie Kirk. Indeed in April 2023, Charles and Camilla surprised residents by making an unexpected visit to a new fishmongers and restaurant in the village during a pre-Coronation holiday at Balmoral.

Balmoral (01339 742 534) is open for pre-booked self-guided tours every summer (1 April to 16 Aug 2023). The Fife Arms (read the review here ) has double rooms from £250 including breakfast.

Read more about where the Royal family like to holiday here .

Sandringham, Norfolk

The Royal family traditionally spends Christmas at the sprawling estate of Sandringham. The private country retreat has been a popular haunt since 1862, when the Jacobean house was built for King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra while Edward’s mother was still on the throne.

It was also a favourite of King Charles III’s grandfather, King George VI, and great-grandfather, King George V, who both died here. The house and gardens are a joy to explore. Norfolk is also where Anmer Hall, another of William and Catherine’s homes, is located.

Sandringham (01485 544 112) is open Sat-Thu (summer). The Brisley Bell (read the review here ) has double rooms from £133 including breakfast.

Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh

Until 1997 the Royal family would take annual holidays around Scotland’s Western Isles aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia . After the yacht was decommissioned, it was docked in the seaside Edinburgh suburb of Leith in Edinburgh and has since become one of Scotland’s most popular attractions.

A tour of the yacht allows you to peer into the bedroom that Queen Elizabeth II slept in while on board and reveals a glimpse of what life in the Royal family is like when the eyes of the world are not upon them. The late Queen clearly missed her days on board; after the yacht was no longer available to her, she chartered the Hebridean Princess , which offers small-ship cruises, on two separate occasions for special celebrations.

The Royal Yacht Britannia (0131 555 5566) is open daily (summer). Fingal (read the review here ) is a luxurious floating hotel nearby. It has double rooms from £300 including breakfast. The Hebridean Princess (01756 704 704) offers cruises from March to November with prices from £4,420pp for seven nights).

Read more about the travels of Elizabeth II here .

Kensington Palace, London

This west London mansion was the beloved home of Princess Diana and both the Diana Memorial Fountain and the Diana Memorial Playground can be found in its gardens. Apartment 1a is still the London pad of the Prince of Wales and his family. 

For many years, Kensington was known for the magnificent balls that were held across its ornate interconnected rooms and began in the late 17 th century during the era of King William and Mary. The already grandiose interiors were later added to by the Georgians when Kensington became the hub of high society. Elaborate decoration, such as the painted walls around the King’s Staircase which features many characters from George I’s court, were also added. 

As well as standard tours of the palace, regular exhibitions draw on its rich history, telling the stories of past and present royals in new and dynamic ways. Victoria: A Royal Childhood tells the story of one of the palace’s most famous residents. Queen Victoria was born here and the exhibition includes personal items such as her doll house. Other rolling exhibitions let visitors see precious items from the palace’s archive; often including iconic outfits worn by various members of the Royal family.

Kensington Palace (0333 320 6000) is open Wed–Sun (summer).  Baglioni (read the review here ), opposite Kensington Gardens, has double rooms from £494 including breakfast.

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Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.