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Get Tickets to Buckingham Palace when Sold Out

There are several ways of getting Buckingham Palace tickets when sold out. The State Rooms are in huge demand as people try to secure tickets to this once-in-a-lifetime event. This year, tickets to the State Rooms also include entry to the Coronation Exhibition, which celebrates the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla. Read on for three suggestions for securing Buckingham Palace tickets when other places are sold out.

The first place to look is here . Our ticket includes entrance to Buckingham Palace plus a choice of open top bus tour. After visiting the Palace, you can go on a night bus tour or a 24-hour hop on hop off bus ticket. This is a very good way of finding tickets to the Palace when other places are sold out. And it’s also a great way to spend a day exploring London.

The second place to find tickets is here and here . These Buckingham Palace tickets also include an afternoon tea. Choose from an afternoon tea at Browns Victoria, which offers a traditional English afternoon tea menu. There are also options for vegans and gluten-free. You can also choose to take the afternoon tea bus. Enjoy an afternoon tea onboard a sightseeing bus.

The third place to find tickets is here and here . Our Royal London tour includes a visit to Buckingham Palace as well as other sites associated with royalty in the city. This includes watching the Changing of the Guards Ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral and a panoramic tour of London.

The fourth place to find tickets is here and here . This option includes just a ticket to Buckingham Palace. We’ve left this suggestion to last since it’s very unlikely to find a ticket on this page, as these tickets are selling out fast, or have already sold out on your travel date. But it’s worth a try!

Still Can’t Find a Ticket?

If you still can’t find a ticket to the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace, sign up for our list below. If we add any more tickets and dates for Buckingham Palace, we will let you know.

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How To Visit Buckingham Palace In 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, And More

Eddie Saint-Jean Last Updated: January 18, 2024

Don’t just stand outside and look for the full-mast flag that means the monarch is home — go in! Buckingham Palace is the British Royal Family’s official residence and even you can visit. That said, it can be tricky and you’ll need to plan ahead. To help you out, I’ve put together this guide with info on tickets, tours, what to see, and the palace’s history. Here’s how to visit Buckingham Palace.

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to London  for more planning resources, our best Buckingham Palace tours  for a memorable trip, and the top things to do in London .

Visiting Buckingham Palace: What We’ll Cover

Witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic things you can do in London—after visiting the palace itself, of course.

As the official London residence of the British monarch since 1837, it is replete with all the opulence you would expect of kings and queens. If it’s on your bucket list, you’ll find out what you need to know about how to visit Buckingham Palace in this guide. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Opening hours and tickets
• How much time to budget for your visit
• What to see in Buckingham Palace
• Guided tour options
• Facts and history of Buckingham Palace
• Places to eat nearby

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if London tours are worth it .

Buckingham Palace Opening Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:

Visitors have access to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms and the Palace Garden for several weeks throughout the year. But for obvious security reasons, these can only be palace guided tours. Available dates vary based on the tours that the palace offers, but here’s what’s happening in 2023.

Palace-guided tours: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November to May. Tours usually start at 4:00 pm on Fridays, and 11:00 am through 2:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Summer tickets: July 14 – September 24, with State Rooms closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Tickets have a timed entry so you’ll want to book ahead , but the palace is open from 9:30 am to the last admission at 5:15 in July and August, and 4:15 in September.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place outside the palace building but within its gates. The public can view this ceremony without a ticket around 10:40 to 11:00 am every day. This time is not exact and is also dependent on weather. The ceremony only happens everyday in June/July and on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays for the rest of the year.

Tickets and Tours:

Tickets must be booked online or booked here for a guided tour that includes the area around Buckingham Palace.

Palace-guided tours in the winter and spring:

Adults: £90 Family guided tour: ages 5-17 is £49.50, under 5 is free

Summer Buckingham Palace tickets if purchased in advance:

Adults: £30 Young adults (18-24): £19.50 Child (5-17): £16.50 Disabled: £16.50 Under 5: Free Families: automatic discount for 1 adult and 2 children or up to 2 adults and 4 children

Pro Tip: Your tickets can be validated for up to a year if you ask a Warden to stamp it before leaving!

Address: Buckingham Palace

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best London tours to take and why .

How Long To Spend at Buckingham Palace

Short Answer: 2.5 hours for the State Rooms or 4.5 hours for the Royal Day Out

There are 19 State Rooms (the palace has a total of 775 rooms) so a meaningful visit will take a few hours. You’ll have access to several of the most ornately decorated rooms with treasures from the Royal Collection, paintings by old master artists, expensive sculptures, and elegant English and French furniture.

Also, you get to see the opulent and historic Throne Room. You might agree as I do that the White Drawing Room is even grander than the Throne Room. Find out for yourself!

What To See In Buckingham Palace

On your visit to the royal residence, make sure you see these incredible rooms and sights. There’s a lot of history and opulence to take in as you see Buckingham Palace. For a more detailed list with history, check out our article on the top things to see at the palace.

• The Changing Of The Guard
• The Throne Room
• The Queen’s Gallery
• The White Drawing Room 
• The Palace Garden
• Treasures Of The Palace
• The Ballroom
• The Gold State Coach
• The Diamond Jubilee State Coach
• The Grand Staircase

Buckingham Palace Tour Options

Guided tours to see Buckingham Palace, the Changing of the Guard, and other important areas around this royal area are the best way to get to know this historic site. We offer several top-rated tours that you can choose to make your vacation in London the best ever.

The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour (2.5 hours)

Anyone can take an audio-guided tour, but if you book this tour, you get the special attention of a tour guide who knows incredible stories you won’t hear on that audio guide. Plus, you’ll first explore the serene St. James Park where you’ll hear about it’s transformation from a swampland to a deer park and a quiet oasis.

You’ll feel like you know the royals even better after exploring the Mall where official processionals and the Changing of the Guard have happened for centuries. Rest assured that your guide will get you to the right door at Buckingham Palace after entertaining you with stories of what you’ll see inside.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard (3 hours)

Clients love our skip-the-line access to the famous Westminster Abbey where they can enjoy a few minutes of quiet time with their guide in the nave of the abbey before the public enters.

There’s more to see at Westminster than you think, so having a knowledgeable guide to lead you through the Quire, Poet’s Corner, and more, is extremely helpful. And if the Changing of the Guard happens on the day of your tour, they’ll be sure to help you see it from several vantage points.

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London (7 hours)

Our top-selling London tour is a must-do when you’re traveling to the heart of the United Kingdom. Your local guides are highly qualified and can share an unreal amount of cool facts and stories about London’s iconic sites and history. Starting at Westminster Abbey, you’ll be amazed at just how much of London you can see on foot and on a Thames river cruise.

Your skip-the-line tickets help you maximize your time, and your guides know where the best spots to see the Changing of the Guard are found. Your final stop at the Tower of London brings London’s more grisly history to life. It’s the perfect place to end your busy day tour of London!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if sightseeing tours in London are worth it .

Buckingham Palace Facts and History 

• The palace has a total of 775 rooms, 19 of which are state rooms open to the public. 
• There have been many properties on the site. From 1698, however, it was known as Buckingham House and was the home of the Duke of Buckingham, where it gets its name.
• In 1761, it became known as the Queen’s House after George III bought it for his wife Queen Charlotte.
• It became a palace for the first time in the 1820s when George IV had it lavishly restructured fit for a king.
• The royal family made it their official residence in 1837, and Queen Victoria was the first royal to officially live there as head of state.
• The palace entertains 50,000 invited guests a year. Also, it averages 578,000 paid visitors a year.
• The Changing of the Guard ceremony happens daily at 10.45 am. King Henry VII made them the official Royal Body Guard 500 years ago. 
• During World War II, the palace was repeatedly targeted but survived nine bombing raids. The Royal Family refused to move out despite concerns for their safety.
• The palace is heavily protected but in 1982 an intruder called Michael Fagan broke into the Queen’s bedroom while she was sleeping. When she awoke, they had a brief chat before she fled the room and raised the alarm.

Places To Eat Nearby

The good news is your dining options are plentiful, but you’ll need to choose wisely. You can dine like royalty on Buckingham Palace Road, very close to the palace. Or, on the same stretch of road, there are sandwich bars with a more laid-back atmosphere and casual dining.

Take your pick of traditional British fare or more exotic cuisines. Here are a few suggestions, but if you’d like more options, also check out our guide to the best restaurants near Buckingham Palace . 

The Laughing Halibut : £ | Takeaway —Grab some old-school fish and chips to take away or take a seat inside. It’s a great place for a quick lunch with good reviews.

Bon Gusto : ££ | Italian Cuisine —Fancy a change from British grub? Try this Italian restaurant with a selection of meat, seafood, and pasta dishes. There are also soups and Mediterranean salads.  

The English Grill : ££££ | Traditional British Fare —This restaurant promises you’ll dine like royalty. Indeed, it is ornately decorated with regal furniture and furnishings. You can enjoy traditional afternoon tea in a garden overlooking the Royal Mews. Also, the range of steak, salad, and dessert dishes (to name a few) are product-sourced from the same Royal suppliers as Buckingham Palace.

Find the best places to stay

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Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.

Reader Interactions

Comments (10).

June 30, 2022

We Want to visit inside Buckingham Palace either on 13th or 14th July. Can you help us tour and visit it?

July 5, 2022

We don’t currently offer Buckingham Palace tours, but we’d love to take you around London to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, plus even more great locations on our London in a Day tour and Westminster Abbey tour .

July 1, 2022

Will we be able to turn up at Buckingham Palace and buy a ticket on the day? Shanthi

[email protected]

Not necessarily. Since the royal family uses Buckingham Palace, schedules and public access are subject to changes at short notice. Additionally, tours are not available every day. It’s best to plan ahead and purchase tickets before you arrive to have the best chance of entering the palace.

September 19, 2022

It’s my 70th birthday august 21 2023 and I would like to bring my children/grandchildren to visit Buckingham Palace. There will be 2 x Oaps, 3 adults, 1 child aged 9 and 1 aged 4. What would you recommend and at what cost? Thank you for your help Best wishes

September 21, 2022

What a fun trip! You can check their website for tickets next season. The palace is only open for 10 weeks in the summer, and it’s closed early this year due to the queen’s death. You can also book a trip out to Windsor Castle and Stonehenge for fun day trip to another royal residence.

In your ‘blurb’ “It became a palace for the first time in the 1820s when George VI had it lavishly restructured to be fit for a king.” This is incorrect. In actual fact it was ‘King George IV’ who died in 1830 King George VI was Queen Elizabeth II father and died in 1952

Thanks for letting us know about that typo! It makes a difference of generations!

I purchased four Buckingham Palace tour tickets for Thursday, September 29. I do have my confirmation email, but I don’t have the actual ticket email. If I would email my customer and order numbers to an office or a person, is there some way I could please get the email with the actual tickets.

Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time and assistance with this matter.

You’ll need to check with the company from whom you purchased your ticket as they’ll have the accurate information.

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Buckingham Palace Last Minute Tickets – It’s not Sold out!

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One of the most recognisable landmarks in the world, Buckingham Palace is an iconic tourist attraction that just so happens to be the official London residence of The Queen.

It also sells out quickly, which means you could find yourself looking for Buckingham Palace last minute tickets . If the official website has those dreaded words “sold out” when you go to book your tickets, worry not.

We’ve put together this comprehensive guide that will help you avoid disappointment and get tickets to Buckingham Palace. And who knows? You might even see the King!

Don’t feel like reading ahead? Book Buckingham Palace tickets right now.

Which Buckingham Palace tickets are available for my desired date?

An estimated 50,000 people head to Buckingham Palace each day to see the building’s exterior, take pictures and watch the Changing of the Guard.

The State Rooms Guided Tour, Royal Day Out Guided Tour

The Palace itself is only open to the public between July and October when the Queen isn’t in residence. During these months, you can head inside the Palace and visit the State Rooms, which are the public rooms of the Palace.

The Royal Mews Guided Tour

Between February and November is when you can see the Royal Mews, which houses The Queen’s carriages.

The Queen’s Gallery

Other parts of the Palace are open to the public all year round, such as The Queen’s Gallery, which exhibits arts from the Royal Collection.

The Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard is also hugely popular amongst visitors. It’s free to watch and doesn’t require a ticket.

How can I buy Buckingham Palace last minute tickets if they are sold out on the official website?

Buckingham Palace is such a popular attraction in the UK, so it won’t come as a surprise to learn that tickets sell out quickly – especially as the State Rooms open between July and October. Most of people go to the official website to book tickets, only to find out they have sold out.

Often, you are required to book a few weeks in advance. This can be tricky if you’re only in London for a small amount of time and still aren’t sure of your exact itinerary. There is good news, however. Many online tour operators such as Getyourguide, Viator or Tiqets sell Buckingham Palace last minute tickets, so all is not lost.

There is an array of tour operators selling Buckingham Palace tickets, which means finding the best deal can prove to be tricky. Fortunately, TourScanner lets you check all the available prices in one convenient place, meaning you can source your Buckingham Palace last minute tickets with minimum fuss.

• Check Buckingham Palace tickets

Are Buckingham Palace tickets available for resale?

Absolutely! Tickets are often available for resale and offer the chance to get Buckingham Palace last minute tickets. Resellers typically sell a range of ticket options and packages, which is why it’s best to use our search engine so that you can see all of the available options on one page.

Is it possible that some Buckingham Palace tickets become available at short notice?

There are occasions where people book Buckingham Palace tickets but need to cancel at the last minute. This means tickets are available at short notice, especially during the week when there are fewer tourists than at the weekend.

It’s always worth checking TourScanner frequently to see if any Buckingham Palace last-minute tickets become available from tour operators who resell tickets.

What will I see?

Even with the State Rooms only opening between July and October, there is still plenty to do and see at Buckingham Palace. It holds its place as a fundamental part of British history and has been the official London residence of The Queen since 1837. A trip to Buckingham Palace provides plenty of options:

The State Rooms

The State Rooms are open for 10 weeks throughout the year, between July and October. The rooms are public and often used by The Queen and members of the Royal Family to receive and entertain guests.

There are 19 state rooms altogether, and architect John Nash designed them with the idea of transforming Buckingham House into a grand palace. The State Rooms feature treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto. They also display some of the finest furniture from all around the world.

The Ballroom and was originally known as the Ball and Concert Room and it’s the largest of the State Rooms. It features a musicians’ gallery that comes complete with its own organ and is used for investitures and State Banquets when it’s not open to the public. There are also two thrones in the Ballroom.

Visitors can wander the public gardens at Buckingham Palace once the tour has ended. There is also a Garden Cafe, which offers views over the Palace lawns. The gardens are perhaps best-known as the setting for The Queen’s garden parties, which usually take place each July.

Treasures of the Palace

No matter which room of Buckingham Palace you visit, expect to see furniture, paintings and objects that tell fascinating stories and have a long history behind them. Each room will detail the items on display, so you can garner a full understanding of their reason for being there.

The Grand Staircase

The Grand Staircase is your entryway to the State Rooms, and is heavily influenced by London’s famous theatres. As you ascend the stairs, expect to see portraits of members of The Queen’s family such as George III and Queen Charlotte, the Duke and Duchess of Kent, and William IV.

The Throne Room

The Throne Room houses a pair of throne chairs which are also known as Chairs of Estate. They were used for the coronation ceremony of The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh in 1952. Other chairs are also on view, including the coronation thrones for King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1937.

Spend some time in the Queen’s Gallery and marvel at exhibitions from all around the world. The displays are from the Royal Collection and change frequently. Visitors can expect to see old master paintings, rare furniture, decorative arts and images from an extensive photograph collection.

The Royal Mews

The Royal Mews is home to historic royal carriages and is regarded as one of the finest working stables in the world. It is responsible for all road travel arrangements for The Queen and The Royal Family. It’s open from February to November each year and provides the opportunity for people to see grand royal carriages up close and personal.

Arguably the most popular attraction at the Palace, the Changing of the Guard takes place daily at 11am between June, July and August and on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the rest of the year. It involves a ceremony where The Queen’s Guard hands over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Palace to the New Guard.

Building exterior

Many people who go to the Palace do so just to take pictures of the building’s grand exterior. Located in Westminster, it enjoys a central location and is easy to get to. You can also tell when The Queen is in residence, as a flag of the Union Jack is raised at full mast. Taking pictures  outside of Buckingham Palace provides an opportunity for a few social media posts and some great memories.

Travel tips

• Tickets often sell out, so be sure to check resellers which you can find on TourScanner
• The State Rooms are open between July and October
• The Royal Mews is open between February and November
• The Changing of the Guard takes place daily in the months of June, July and August
• For the other 9 months of the year, it takes place on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
• When you enter the State Rooms, expect to go through security that includes metal detectors
• The Queen lives at Buckingham Palace – when the Union Jack flag flying at full mast indicates she’s home
• Buckingham Palace is located in central London, close to Victoria, Green Park and Hyde Park Corner Tube station.

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5 Things to Know Before Your Buckingham Palace Tour

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Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic sights in Europe, and touring it should be on your London bucket list !

It is home to the British Royal Family and has been since 1837. While you normally can only see the outside of the palace, you are able to take a Buckingham Palace tour during the summer. 

The palace is normally open form mid-July to mid-September, and you can find specific dates at the Royal Trust Collection  website . You can sometimes take a Buckingham Palace tour in the winter months depending on whether the Queen will be in residence of not. You can find information regarding winter dates on the Royal Trust Collection website. It is open every summer when she is in Scotland though.

Taking a Buckingham Palace tour is exciting! You get a glimpse into how the British Royal Family lives, and it is an experience like no other. It is a super fun way to spend a few hours, but there are some things you should know before you go! These five tips will help you plan your trips, easily get into Buckingham, and follow the rules, so you don’t get kicked out!

1. Book Your Tickets Online in Advance

You should purchase your tickets  online in advance. As far in advance as possible! Buckingham Palace tour tickets are extremely popular and normally sell out in advance.

This is especially important if you’re visiting Buckingham Palace with kids . It’ll cut down on your wait time, so your kids don’t get tired of waiting or

You are able to select an entrance time when you purchase tickets online. The earlier you purchase tickets, the more likely you are to get an entry time that suits you. You run the risk of getting an entry time that is inconvenient or overlaps with other plans if you do not purchase tickets in advance.

You must arrive for your Buckingham Palace tour at the time listed on your ticket. It is not possible to enter the palace if you’re late, so make sure to be there on time!

I purchased my Buckingham Palace tour tickets five months in advance. My first choice in time slots on the day I was going was sold out, so I had to select my second choice. Obviously it isn’t a big deal to get a ticket for a half hour later, but that was five months in advance! You will have a very limited selection if you purchase only a few weeks before your tour.

Combination Tickets

You have the option of purchasing a combination ticket when you purchase your Buckingham Palace tour ticket. Combination tickets allow you entry to multiple attractions run by the Royal Trust at a slightly reduced fare.

You are able to get a combination ticket for other attractions such as the Royal Mews and The Queen’s Gallery.

You should consider purchasing a combination ticket if you plan on visiting multiple royal attractions. It won’t save you a lot of money, but you will save some!

2. Arrive Early

Since you’re not able to enter the palace if you’re late for your time slot, you want to get to the palace early. It is better to be a bit too early than to be late! It would be horrible to miss your tour and waste your money just because there was a delay in getting to Buckingham Palace.

You have an entry time on your ticket, but you should arrive at Buckingham Palace 15-30 minutes before your entry time. There is always a long queue to scan tickets and a security procedure that takes quite a while.

There are two sides to security in a tent after you scan your ticket. One side is for the current time slot and the other for the next time slot. You will be told what line you should join when your ticket is scanned.

The security guards are well-trained, so as long as you’re there with enough time to spare, you will have no problem getting to the proper security queue or getting into the palace on time.

3. The Entrance is on the Right-Hand Side of Buckingham Palace next to the Queen’s Gallery

The entrance for the Buckingham Palace tour is not at the front of the palace where the changing of the guards takes place. If you are facing Buckingham Palace with the Queen Victoria statue at your back, the entrance for the tour is to the right around the corner.

The entrance is part-way down the street when you turn right. If you reach the Queen’s Gallery, you have gone too far.

From my experience, there is normally a long queue of people waiting to enter Buckingham Palace and take their tour. You will likely come across the queue shortly after you turn right at the end of the palace. People often don’t believe the queue is for the Buckingham Palace tour because it is so long, but it is.

There will be a security guard walking up and down the queue occasionally calling for people with specific entry time tickets. If you’re at the back of the queue and you’re time gets called, let the security guard know, and s/he will bring you to the ticket scanning area.

People often show up to the tour way too early for their tour and will stand in the queue even if their tour isn’t for an hour. I guess people think they can get in early if they are there, but they can’t, so they end up standing around waiting for their time slot.

You should only leave the queue if you’re time slot is called, and you’re told to go to the front.

Closest Underground Stations

The London Underground is the most common and efficient way to get to your Buckingham Palace tour. It may be more efficient to walk to Buckingham Palace depending where in London you are staying, but, for the most part, you will likely take the Underground to the palace. Don’t forget to get an Oyster card to make using public transportation in London a breeze!

The 3 Underground stations that are closest to Buckingham Palace are:

• St. James’ Park

They are all relatively close and are less than a 10 minute walk from Buckingham Palace.

The station furtherest from the palace is St. James’ Park, but it has the most scenic walk. You walk through the gardens at St. James’ Park, and it is a very nice way to get into the mood for a royal Buckingham Palace tour. If you have the extra few minutes, I would recommend getting off at St. James’ Park.

4. Know What You’re Not Allowed to Bring on Your Buckingham Palace Tour

You shouldn’t be surprised to learn that there are quite a few things that you aren’t allowed to bring into Buckingham Palace.

Items You Can’t Bring into Buckingham Palace

Items that are not allowed into the palace will either be confiscated or checked and returned to you when you exit the palace.

Items such as food and drinks will be confiscated and items like luggage and backpacks need to be checked.

The security process goes a lot quicker if you have already gone through your personal items to ensure there are no banned items inside them. I had a protein bar, and it was confiscated, so the security guards take their job seriously and are through when they inspect your bags.

Other Banned Items

• You are not allowed to smoke or vape on your Buckingham Palace tour. Being caught smoking in the palace or in the gardens is grounds for removal from the property.
• I visited Buckingham Palace on a very rainy day. People with large umbrellas were asked to check them and retrieve them when they exited the tour. I had a small umbrella that fit in my purse and had no problems. You should make sure to have a small umbrella that can easily be put inside a small bag, so you don’t have to go through the hassle of checking it and retrieving it when you leave the palace.

5. How the Buckingham Palace Tour Works

The Buckingham Palace tour works the same as all the other Royal Trust tours. You get an audioguide that has in-depth information about the palace, and the tour is self-paced.

The tour is self-guided in the sense that there isn’t a tour guide personally showing you the palace. But there is a designated route you have to follow during the tour, and you can’t deviate from it or go back to another room you have already visited.

There is a lot of information provided on the audioguide, so you will be standing around quite a bit in each room. It is worth listening to all the information and not rushing through the tour. You paid a lot of money for the tour, so you should take advantage of every piece of information they give you!

There are also secondary parts to the audioguide. In every room you have the choice to go more in-depth on a specific item and learn more about it. The items are normally pieces of art or furniture.

You can skip these parts of the audioguide if you’re not interested in it. The core of the information is contained in the main portion of the audioguide.

You get to see a very limited number of rooms on the tour. The rooms you get to see are mainly common areas and banquet halls. You don’t get to see any personal rooms so don’t expect to sneak a peak into the Queen’s bedchamber!

The rooms you are allowed to tour are spectacular and well worth the ticket cost.

The Buckingham Palace tour is the perfect option for any royal fan that is visiting London during the summer months. It gives you a small peak into how the royal family lives, and you leave with a lot more information than you had before you entered.

You need to make sure you follow the palace rules and arrive early to make the most out of your tour! You will also have a much more enjoyable tour if you purchase your tickets online months in advance. It would be a shame to not be able to take the tour just because tickets were sold out!

All in all, I would highly recommend the Buckingham Palace tour for any royal fan! It is truly the height of royal tourism and worth every pence you spend on it.

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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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What You Need To Know Before Visiting Buckingham Palace (Yes, You Can Go Inside)

• Key Takeaways:
• Buckingham Palace is currently undergoing a major renovation until 2027. Some areas may be closed during the renovation, so it is important to check the official website for updates.
• Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Buckingham Palace and other royal palaces were closed to the public and are gradually reopening. The State Rooms of Buckingham Palace will be closed for the rest of the year.
• To visit Buckingham Palace, it is recommended to book in advance and arrive early to allow time for security checks. Certain items are prohibited inside the palace, and photography is only allowed in the garden. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is also worth watching.

One of the things that all Americans will most likely do when traveling to London is visiting Buckingham Palace. A far cry from some of the overrated tourist attractions in London , the palace is still a working royal residence and is definitely worth a visit. Keep reading to find out what you need to know before going.

For 70 years, Buckingham Palace was one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II - now, it is an official residence of King Charles III. The changing of the King's (formerly Queen's) Guard is one of the most iconic attractions in London and something visitors from around the world flock to see.

UPDATE: 2023/10/27 17:07 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Everything People Need To Know When Visiting Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace continues to be a global icon for tourists and English people alike. Although there is a renovation happening until 2027, there will be plenty of tours, photo-ops, and history once you enter the property. Have fun, and be safe!

Buckingham Palace Is Being Slowly Renovated

Because Buckingham Palace is so old, there have been efforts made to renovate the property. According to the Royal Family, the building's infrastructure is in urgent need of a complete overhaul to prevent long-term damage to the building and its contents. Of course, this should not result in anyone's trip being ruined, but it is worth it to check the official website now and then to ensure none of the Palace is closed.

Moreover, Buckingham Palace is currently undergoing major refurbishment works costing £369 million, expected to be completed in 2027. This will be one of the most significant renovations ever to the property, which is the country's way of preserving an iconic landmark. King Charles has been steadfast in his efforts to have this project completed as soon as possible, although such a large Palace can only be repaired so fast.

Visitors can expect certain areas to already be finished, with others closing periodically. Therefore, tours may be adjusted and altered to show more of one section over the other, so keep that in mind. Nobody ever said a renovation was easy!

• When Will Construction Be Done At Buckingham Palace?: Construction at Buckingham Palace is expected to finish in 2027.

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Notice Of Closures Following The Death Of The Queen

Following the passing of the much-loved Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, Buckingham Palace (and the other royal palaces) were closed to the public. The official residences and palaces have been and will be reopening progressively to the public.

The Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and The Queen’s Gallery, Edinburgh reopened later in September. However, Buckingham Palace will not be fully reopening in 2022 as the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace will be closed for the rest of the year.

Ordinary Opening Hours For The State Rooms:

• July to August: 9.30 am to 7.30 pm
• September to October: 9.30 to 6.30 pm
• Closed: Tuesday and Wednesdays

One should check with the Royal Collection Trust for up-to-date information.

How To Get To Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is one of the prettiest destinations in London , and that’s just when looking at it from the outside. Centrally located, it’s super easy to get to and is close to three underground stations: Victoria, Green Park, and St. James’s Park, all of which are about 10 minutes away.

Many tourists choose to get off the Tube at St. James’s Park and then stroll through the luscious gardens in the park on their way to the palace. Alternatively, you could take a cab, but this can take a lot longer than the Tube due to traffic. If you don’t mind walking, the palace is within walking distance of several hotels in Westminster. It’s also one of the stops of the Hop on Hop off bus tour.

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When You Can Go Inside

Many tourists are content to observe Buckingham Palace through the gates, but it is possible to go inside. The palace offers internal tours between July and October. It’s a self-guided tour where each participant is given an audio guide and allowed to travel through the rooms included on the tour at their own pace. If you’re touring the palace, you must always follow the designated route, and you won’t be allowed to return to another room you’ve already been to.

Entry Fees Buckingham Palace Only:

• Adult: £30.00 ($33)
• Young Person: £19.50 ($22) (Aged 18 to 24)
• Child: £16.50 ($18) (Aged 5 to 17)

Entry Fees Royal Day Out:

• Adult: £55.00 ($61)
• Young Person: £36.00 ($39) (Aged 18 to 24)
• Child: £30.00 ($33) (Aged 5 to 17)

The Royal Day Out includes access to the Royal Mews, The Queen's Galley, and Buckingham Palace. The tour offers access to 19 of the 775 rooms in the palace. You’ll get a chance to walk through the State Rooms where the Queen entertains guests for state affairs, including the Throne Room and the White Drawing Room. You’ll also get to see the Ballroom and walk through the garden on the way out. You also have the option to pay more for access to the Royal Mews and the Queen’s Gallery.

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Book In Advance And Be On Time

Because the palace is only open to visitors for four months every year, places fill up very quickly. Book in advance as far ahead as possible. When purchasing your tickets online, you’ll be able to choose an entrance time, and the sooner in advance you book your ticket, the better chance you’ll have of selecting a convenient time slot.

• Tip: Plan Ahead And Book Tickets Well In Advance

One of the things to know before your Buckingham Palace tour is that you should arrive at the palace between 15 and 30 minutes early. There is always a long queue to get through security, and if you’re too late, there’s a chance you will miss out on your tour.

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The Rules Of Entry

Understandably, there are a few rules of entry that all tour participants are required to follow when visiting the palace. Certain items are banned, including liquids, food, backpacks, scissors, penknives, and luggage. If you bring any of these items in, they will be confiscated. In some cases, they will be returned as you exit the palace. Those with large umbrellas are also asked to check them before embarking on the tour.

Photography is permitted in the garden but not in the staterooms. Mobile phones must also be switched off during the tour. Baby pushers are also not permitted in the staterooms.

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Other Things To Do At Buckingham Palace

If you don’t book a tour of Buckingham Palace, it’s still worth a visit. Many visitors are content to admire the palace from the outside, but there’s also the Changing of the Guard ceremony. In June and July, this generally takes place every day, although it is subject to change.

From August to May, you can catch the ceremony on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The official start time is 11 a.m. and there are several vantage points to watch the ceremony from, including the Buckingham Palace Gate and the Victoria Memorial.

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Changing of the Guard with Optional Buckingham Palace Grounds Guided Walking Tour

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All your buckingham palace ticket options, state rooms & royal mews tour, the queen’s gallery exhibition, walking tours, recommended experiences, plan your visit to buckingham palace, opening hours, getting there, guidelines/facilities, what to see at buckingham palace, state rooms, the queen's gallery, changing of the guard, top attractions in london, big ben and the houses of parliament, st. paul's cathedral, tower of london, british museum, trafalgar square, buckingham palace tour faqs, what can i see on the buckingham palace tour, can i bring luggage on the buckingham palace tour, can i take photos on the buckingham palace tour, are there any age restrictions for the buckingham palace tour, are audio guides available at buckingham palace, are there places to shop during the buckingham palace tour, is buckingham palace accessible for visitors with disabilities, nearby cities to explore.

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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).

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Buckingham Palace Questions & Answers

Buckingham Palace tickets are sold out! Any recs for getting tix from a third party?

Please contact either :

[email protected] or 020 7930 4832 for more information. I hope for the best. Thank you

I would recommend visiting the official website for Buckingham Palace.

Hi Julie did you have any luck? I'm in the same boat.

Try the tour operators. Hope that helps

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