buckingham palace tours july 2023

Protect Your Trip »

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

Getty Images

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.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

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.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in London
• The Best Harry Potter Tours in London
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

The Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Tags: Travel , Tours

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best charleston tours.

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

The Best Napa Valley Wine Tours

Amanda Norcross April 4, 2024

The 10 Best Denver Tours

Lyn Mettler April 4, 2024

Top Memorial Day Weekend Getaways

Nicola Wood April 3, 2024

The Best Way to Renew a Passport

Amanda Norcross April 3, 2024

The Best Checked Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Sharael Kolberg , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 3, 2024

The Best Venice Tours

Lyn Mettler and Marisa Méndez April 2, 2024

The Best Travel Toiletry Bags

Amanda Norcross April 2, 2024

U.S. News Best Bed & Breakfasts Rankings

U.S. News Hotels Editors April 2, 2024

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Rachael Hood , Erin Evans , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson March 29, 2024

June 14, 2023

Buckingham Palace Summer Opening: A Guide to Visiting the Royal Residence

The Buckingham Palace Summer Opening 2023 will be from Friday, 14 July, to Sunday, 24 September. During the 10 weeks, visitors to Buckingham Palace will see the 19 magnificent State Rooms, which provide the setting for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining. All rooms are furnished with many of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection.

Buckingham Palace Summer Opening 2023

For 2023, the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace will feature outfits worn by Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the Coronation.

The clothing will form part of a special Coronation display staged in the Ballroom to celebrate the historic service held at Westminster Abbey on 6 May. The centrepiece of the display will be the outfits worn by Their Majesties as they departed from Westminster Abbey in the Gold State Coach and then appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony to greet the crowds. Shown alongside these will be a selection of the historic vestments worn by The King at the moment of crowning, including the Coronation Glove, Girdle (or Sword Belt) and Stole Royal.

Visitors to the Summer Opening of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace will also be able to see the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, which conveyed Their Majesties to Westminster Abbey for the Coronation and which will be on display in the Palace’s State Entrance.

For more information about the Summer Opening of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace and to book tickets, check out the website for the Royal Collection Trust .   This can be easily combined with our Royal London Tour to discover and learn about additional Royal places in London – The home of the British Monarchy!

Buckingham Palace Facts & Figures

Buckingham Palace is the working headquarters of the Monarchy, where The Queen carries out her official and ceremonial duties as Head of State of the United Kingdom and Head of the Commonwealth. The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh live in the private apartments on the north side of the Palace, while rooms on the upper floors of the north and east sides are occupied by other members of the Royal Family. Much of the ground floor and the south wing of the Palace are used by over 800 members of staff. Their jobs range from housekeeping to horticulture, catering to correspondence. Some of the more unusual jobs include fendersmith, clockmaker and flagman.

The site where Buckingham Palace now stands was originally a mulberry garden planted by King James I to rear silkworms. Unfortunately, he chose the wrong kind of mulberry bush, and silk production never took off in Britain. By 1628 a substantial house already existed on the site and in 1698 it was let to John Sheffield (later the Duke of Buckingham) who demolished the property and rebuilt it as ‘Buckingham House’. In 1761 George III acquired the site as a private residence and the house underwent considerable remodelling and modernising. Buckingham House was transformed into Buckingham Palace in the 1820s by the architect John Nash for George IV, but the first monarch to use Buckingham Palace as their official residence was Queen Victoria, who moved there in 1837. The white Portland stone facade was created in 1913 by Sir Aston Webb.

Buckingham Palace is 108 metres long across the front, 120 metres deep (including the central quadrangle) and 24 metres high. The Palace has 775 rooms, including 19 Staterooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms. There are 1,514 doors and 760 windows. All windows are cleaned every six weeks. The palace has its own chapel, post office, swimming pool, staff cafeteria, doctor’s surgery and cinema. There are more than 350 clocks and watches in Buckingham Palace, one of the largest collections of working clocks anywhere.

More than 50,000 people visit the Palace each year as guests to State banquets, lunches, dinners, receptions and Garden Parties. Her Majesty also holds weekly audiences with the Prime Minister and receives newly-appointed foreign Ambassadors at Buckingham Palace. In 2015, Her Majesty hosted a reception for players, organisers and supporters of the Rugby World Cup.

Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace’s garden covers 40 acres and includes a helicopter landing area, a lake, and a tennis court. It is home to 30 different species of bird and more than 350 different wildflowers, some extremely rare.

The first Garden Party at Buckingham Palace was held by Queen Victoria in the 1860s. Today, there are usually three Garden Parties at the Palace every summer, each attended by approximately 8,000 people, who consume 27,000 cups of tea, 20,000 sandwiches and 20,000 cakes.

In 2002, a music concert was staged in the garden of Buckingham Palace to mark The Queen’s Golden Jubilee, which included an unforgettable performance of ‘God Save The Queen’ by Brian May from the roof of the Palace and at Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012 members of the public were invited to have a special picnic in the Buckingham Palace garden.

Hundreds of distinguished historic figures have visited Buckingham Palace, including a seven-year-old Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Charles Dickens, American Presidents including JF Kennedy and Barack Obama, Mahatma Gandhi (who wore a loincloth and sandals to tea with King George V), Neil Armstrong and Nelson Mandela.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may also like

Halloween History: Attitudes to Sorcerers and Witches in the Elizabethan and Stuart Courts

To put it mildly, attitudes towards witches and sorcerers in the Elizabethan period were confusing and often contradictory. While Bloody Mary (reigned 1553 - 1558) was vicious in her treatment of witches, Elizabeth I (1558 - 1603) had a more ambivalent relationship to this subject. After all her mother, Anne Boleyn had been accused of being a witch because of a malformation of her left hand, which appeared in the form of an extra finger. Elizabeth, as a strong female ruler, may not have been happy about hunting down the fair sex, therefore, and accusing those who might be innocent of any crime.

Top 10 Facts About Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace has been a royal residence for over 300 years and is now the London home to Prince Harry, Prince William, Catherine Middleton and the young Prince George and Princess Charlotte. Although their residence is private, a large part of Kensington Palace is open to the public to explore the lives of past royal residents, and visit the historic rooms that have shaped a nation. Below you'll find 10 top facts about Kensington Palace.

• A-Z of London
• APTG/Guide London
• Around London
• Beyond London
• British Military
• British Monarchy
• Cathedrals & Churches
• Christmas & New Year
• Film & Television
• Food & Drink
• Major Events
• Major London Sites
• Museums & Galleries

William Shakespeare Tour

Shakespeare’s London – discover tantalising traces of the life of ‘The Bard’ as well as memorials to his enduring legacy

A William Shakespeare Tour…

VIEW TOUR NOW

Specialist Tours

Sign up to our newsletter to receive the latest news, events and offers from London.

Would you like to receive our newsletter?

Guide London

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!

• Buckingham Palace and walking tour
• St. James Park
• Pass Through Royal Gates
• Views of Buckingham Palace
• Picture Gallery in the palace
• White Drawing Room
• State Dining Room and Ballroom

Throne Room

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.

Buckingham Palace

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.

Palace State Rooms

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.

" data-expanded-text="hide full description "> show full description

What you get with this tour

See what people are saying

10 total reviews

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!

show more reviews

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

You may also like

Skip the Line

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London

Travel the River Thames by boat then dive into British history at London's famous fortress

( 322 ) as low as $94.88

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

Explore Buckingham Palace, see the Crown Jewels, take a river cruise on the Thames, and more!

( 205 ) as low as $167.20

Exclusive Meet & Greet Tour with the Tower of London Beefeaters

Hear legends from a Guard in the Bloody Tower before your full tour of the fortress

( 14 ) From: $101.65

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

Explore royal history at London's famous church before seeing Buckingham Palace's ceremony

( 292 ) as low as $81.32

Early Entry Tower of London Tour with the Beefeaters

Witness a centuries-old tradition before seeing the crown jewels with fewer crowds

( 21 ) From: $110.74

Private Tour

Private Tower of London Tour

Follow your private guide to London's most infamous fortress by way of River Thames cruise

( 14 ) From: $574.04

Skip the Line Churchill's War Rooms and Westminster Small Group Tour

Explore the preserved Secret Bunkers in London, where D-Day and the fall of Hitler were planned

( 9 ) From: $104.53

Small Group Day Tour of Bath, Windsor Castle, and Stonehenge from London

Explore the rich history of England with an ultimate historic experience covering three iconic sites

( 34 ) From: $216.40

Full-Day Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

Journey back in time to experience the mysteries of ancient stones and historic Roman baths

From: $125.43

Private Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard Tour

Dive deep into London's history at the famous church before seeing Buckingham Palace

From: $569.52

Harry Potter Studio & Oxford from London: Magic Behind the Scenes

Roam the streets of Oxford, visit Hogwarts Castle, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express!

( 3 ) From: $186.45

Private London Highlights Black Cab Tour

Zip through London’s captivating streets as you explore the city’s top monuments, historic landmarks

From: $463.30

British Museum Guided Tour in London

Admire this world-famous historic collection with the help of an expert guide

( 3 ) From: $62.15

Water Activity

The Ultimate London Speedboat Adventure

Experience Big Ben, Tower Bridge & More in Thrilling Fashion with a Small Group

( 7 ) From: $79.10

Downtown London Donut Crawl: A Sweet Journey Through the City

A tasty tour through Historic Borough Market and beyond

From: $60.00

Private London in a Day Tour

Discover London's deep history at Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, and the Changing of the Guard

( 5 ) From: $1,067.85

Soho Eats: A Delicious Evening Walking Tour

Uncover the history of rock-n-roll in London while sampling delicious local food

( 4 ) From: $174.02

Morning Food Tour Through Borough Market and London

Taste local delicacies, explore the neighborhood near the iconic Bridge, and end with a cold pint

( 4 ) From: $119.78

Flavors of London’s East End: Small Group Food Tour

Check this vibrant neighborhood off your bucket list with local food tastings

From: $128.82

Semi-Private Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter

Discover the cinematic sorcery behind the world’s most famous wizard in this fully guided tour

From: $423.75

From London: Warner Bros Studios & Walking Tour of Oxford in a Small Group

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter and immerse yourself in a historic university city

From: $226.00

Royal Hampton Court Palace Tour with Afternoon Tea

Immerse yourself in regal history as you tour the palace grounds and experience afternoon tea

From: $184.19

Kensington Gardens tour with Royal High Tea

Enjoy an intimate tour of Kensington Palace Gardens that ends with traditional English High Tea

( 2 ) From: $158.20

London Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

On a 35-minute flight, soar above Central London, the River Thames, and Surrey countryside

From: $994.40

Private Harry Potter Black Cab Tour Through London

See where the magic of Harry Potter came to life as you drive to Gringotts Wizarding Bank and stroll

Full-Day Stonehenge and Avebury Tour From London

Experience mysterious stone circles and quaint villages with a small group and expert guide

From: $143.51

The Making of Harry Potter Studios with Exclusive Champagne Reception

Raise a glass in the Great Hall, wander down Diagon Alley, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express!

From: $265.55

Premium Westminster Abbey Tour with Breakfast and London Eye

Avoid lines and witness the storied sites of royal ceremonies, then soar above the London skyline

From: $172.89

Windsor, Stonehenge, & Bath Full-Day Tour with Lacock Pub Lunch from London

Enjoy coach travel, early entry to Windsor Castle, and a pub lunch on this action-packed day trip

as low as $211.37

Top tours customers bought with this tour:

Thank you for letting us know how your experience was!

Tell us about your experience.

If you need to book more than 7 guests on this tour, contact us at [email protected] A travel Expert will get back to you to arrange all the details.

Europe is re-opening for visitors!

Want to see which small group tours are now operating ?

More tours added weekly!

See Open Tours

• Travel Blog
• In The Press
• Top Attractions

Policy & Terms

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• USA or Canada: +1 888 290 5595
• Email: [email protected]

© 2024 - The Tour Guy All rights reserved.

Guide: Touring Buckingham Palace

My son Augustine requested two activities during our two days in London: visit Buckingham Palace and the British Museum. We did both in a single half-day. This post will highlight the logistics of touring Buckingham Palace with a family.

Touring Buckingham Palace – Our Experience

Buckingham Palace is open to tours 10 weeks each summer; this year from Friday, 14 July to Sunday, 24 September 2023 (it is open occasionally in the winter and spring for guided tours). Tickets range from £16.50 to £33.00 each (children under five are free):

Families can save £25.00 by booking online in advance (at least one adult and two children booked together). Just tabulate the total based upon the chart above and deduct £25.00.

We showed up at the Visitor’s Entrance on the south side of the property (we took the Underground to Green Park and walked to the palace) at the queue time indicated on our ticket and were ushered right in. If you are a little early, you will have to wait (and if you are late, you may be turned away, though we saw some people allowed in despite being 25 minutes late). This is also where you can buy same-day tickets, subject to availability.

Once inside, you must first pass through an airport-style security checkpoint and then pick up an audio guide. Items like umbrellas or large bags are taken here with instructions to pick them up as you exit to the garden.

Photography is not allowed inside and I did not try to sneak any pictures. The palace offers a superb collection of artwork and brightly-colored rooms that seem to have inspired similar designs and styles in the US White House. You will visit:

• White Drawing Room
• Throne Room
• Picture Gallery

(Pictures and virtual tour here , if interested)

The palace gardens were carefully cultivated during the reign of King George VI and serve as the venue for Palace Garden parties each year meant to honor “ordinary” citizens who contribute to society. You can visit these as well by adding on a garden tour for about £12.00 for adults.

On the way out, you can convert your ticket into a one-year pass, by classifying it as a donation (that apparently carries some tax benefits for the Royal Trust). There’s an area via the garden near the exit where you can stamp the ticket. Then just present the ticket upon your return for complimentary entrance.

I appreciated the audio tour and artwork and very much appreciated the special coronation exhibit in the ballroom which had elements of the coronation including the attire worn by the King and Queen and the embroidered screen behind which Charles was anointed.

While I was a bit worried about how the kids would do, they actually did just fine and my son very much enjoyed the visit.

This is part of my summer to Europe trip report .

About Author

Matthew Klint

Matthew is an avid traveler who calls Los Angeles home. Each year he travels more than 200,000 miles by air and has visited more than 135 countries. Working both in the aviation industry and as a travel consultant, Matthew has been featured in major media outlets around the world and uses his Live and Let's Fly blog to share the latest news in the airline industry, commentary on frequent flyer programs, and detailed reports of his worldwide travel.

Related Posts

Introduction: Forbearance On Turkish Airlines + Three Nights In Istanbul

Trip Report Roadmap: Spring 2024

Review: Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

You know I never give you a hard time for a misspelling or an omission here and there, nobody’s perfect… You may want to give this a re-read. Some of your most useful points are unclear, and this could be a very useful article for a family visiting London.

A nice post. Your best posts of late have been things the average person would do and try and from a good perspective.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Policy

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.

Video statement for the Princess of Wales

22nd March 2024

Catherine, the Princess of Wales has released a Video statement - watch here >>

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

Buckingham Palace to open a wing to the public for the first time

E ver wanted to stand on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, waving to crowds of onlookers as the royals do? Well this summer, you'll get your closest shot — though no promises you'll see as big of a crowd as, say, an agitated Prince Louis.

On Wednesday, the  Royal Collection Trust  announced the palace's East Wing, which encompasses the famous balcony, will be open for guided public tours in July and August.

And although visitors won't be able to stand on the balcony itself — where members of the Royal Family have for most big moments since 1851, including  King Charles' 2023 coronation  — they'll visit never-before-seen rooms on the Principal Floor, garnished by lavish art from the Royal Collection, and learn the history of the wing, which Queen Victoria and her family first occupied. The tour ends in the Centre Room, which leads onto the famous balcony. 

Though now used by the Royal Family for "official meetings and events," from 1847 to 1849, Queen Victoria commissioned a plan to turn what was once a horseshoe-shaped courtyard into the current East Wing because she needed more space for her "growing family," the Trust says.

The historic wing has been closed to the public since, but the decision to open it now comes after more than five years of "improvement works," completed by Buckingham Palace's Reservicing Program. The Trust says the work was an effort to update the building's infrastructure, "improve access and preserve it for future generations."

But it's not the only royal structure the public can see for the first time this summer: Balmoral Castle, the Royal Family's Scotland estate, is also kicking off guided indoor tours — a first since the castle was completed in 1855, according to its website.

Visitors will be taken through several rooms to learn more about the building's origins, "how it has been loved by generations of the Royal Family" and how they use it today, the castle's website states. 

Balmoral Castle  is respected as one of Queen Elizabeth's favorite places. She had been summer vacationing there in 2022 when she died in September, becoming the first monarch to die at the estate.

Tours of Balmoral Castle will run July 1 through Aug. 4, with many dates already sold out. But general admission tickets, including a tour of the grounds and exhibitions, are still available. 

Meanwhile, tickets to see the East Wing must be purchased in addition to a standard State Room ticket. The Palace will be open for tours seven days a week — a first since 2019 — from July until September, when it will go back to five days a week.

SEE MORE: King Charles returns to public outings with Easter Sunday service

Watch Scripps News Live | Subscribe to Weekday News Updates

• Entertainment
• Celebrities
• Ticket Sales
• Promoted: What to Watch on Prime Video

trending now

Kate Middleton suffers major professional setback: opinion

Powerball player wins $1.33B jackpot after hours-long drawing...

New video adds twist to controversial Iowa-UConn foul: 'Not even...

NYPD rolls out 'barnacle' windshield boots to force violators to...

'Migrant influencer' who encouraged squatting whines to NY Post...

Swarm of 'wannabe thugs' caught on camera trashing police cruiser...

Travel expert who visited every US state reveals favorite spots...

Most promiscuous countries in the world revealed: Here's how...

Buckingham palace’s balcony room to open to public for first time.

• View Author Archive
• Follow on Twitter
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Fans of the royal family can now have their own viral Prince Louis moment .

For the first time ever, Buckingham Palace in London will allow visitors to take guided tours of the royal residence’s east wing — including the famed balcony room where the family gathers to wave at citizens on the Mall during special occasions.

Royals have waved on the palace balcony for decades for occasions like weddings and jubilees, and King Charles’ coronation in May 2023.

A limited number of East Wing Highlights Tours go on sale on April 9.

Running daily from July 15 to August 31, the East Wing Highlights Tours will take visitors through the principal rooms of the wing, including the Centre Room which then leads onto the palace balcony, which was first used by Queen Victoria.

Sadly, tourists will not be allowed to step foot on the famous overhang.

Other highlights of the balcony room include a newly restored glass chandelier, shaped to resemble a lotus flower, and two Chinese 18th-century imperial silk wall hangings, presented to Victoria by Guangxu, emperor of China, to mark her Diamond Jubilee in 1897.

Visitors will also be led through the principal corridor, which runs the length of the wing, where paintings by artists such as Thomas Gainsborough are hung.

There are over 3,000 artifacts from the Royal Collection in the east wing alone, so visitors will have plenty to look at during the 45-minute tour.

The wing’s principal floor will be open to the public in July and August after more than five years of renovations. The palace’s 10-year plan to update its electrical cabling, plumbing and heating system will be on display.

After the east wing excursion — which is limited to 20 spots per tour and costs $95 per adult — visitors can embark on a self-guided tour of the State Rooms.

Share this article:

Advertisement

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

King Charles Is Opening New Doors to Royal Palaces, Including Family's Summer Retreat, to Public for First Time

Visitors will be able to tour Balmoral Castle, where Queen Elizabeth died, and new nooks of Buckingham Palace, including the room that leads out to the iconic balcony

Janine Henni is a Royals Staff Writer for PEOPLE Digital, covering modern monarchies and the world's most famous families. Like Queen Elizabeth, she loves horses and a great tiara moment.

Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty; Greg Balfour Evans/Alamy

Balmoral Castle and Buckingham Palace are welcoming visitors in new ways.

It was revealed this week that both royal residences will welcome visitors into previously unseen spaces through ticketed tours this summer. In fact, Balmoral Castle in Scotland is opening "for the first time since the castle was completed in 1855," its website says.

Balmoral is famed as the royal family's cherished summer sanctuary in the Scottish Highlands, but it also holds sad memories for the group. Prince William  and  Prince Harry were spending time there in August 1997 when their mother, Princess Diana , tragically died in a car crash in Paris.

Queen Elizabeth , who her granddaughter  Princess Eugenie  once said was "most happy" at Balmoral, died there in 2022. Sources told PEOPLE at the time it was fitting she spend her last hours there because it was such a special place for her and her family — and now, the public can step into the castle in Aberdeenshire for themselves.

Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty

The Castle Internal Guided Tours experience is touted as a "historical journey" through "several of the beautiful rooms," comprised of a private guide that talks visitors through its history from acquisition by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1845 to a peek at how King Charles , Queen Camilla and other royal family members continue to use the space today. 

The royal family has previously permitted tours at Balmoral around the grounds and gardens, but access inside the castle was limited to the ballroom, making the Castle Internal Guided Tours the most intimate yet.

The tours are set to run from July 1 to August 4, capped at 10 people per session. The general guided excursion currently costs about $126 a person, while tickets with afternoon tea are about $189 — and are open to adults only.

Andrew Milligan/PA Images via Getty

While many of the internal Balmoral Castle tours have already sold out, there’s still plenty of availability for the Balmoral General Admission, featuring a trove of artwork by King Charles plus some royal fashion. The Ballroom promises "His Majesty The King's watercolor collection depicting scenery at Balmoral, Highgrove and Sandringham" and a "collection of outfits worn by Their Majesties King Charles and Queen Camilla, the late Queen Elizabeth and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother."

While Buckingham Palace has been a popular stop for royal watchers since 1993 when Queen Elizabeth opened its gates as a fundraiser after a devastating fire ripped through Windsor Castle in 1992, new areas of the famous London residence will be available to tour for the first time this year.

The East Wing of Buckingham Palace, where the King filmed his Christmas broadcast in December 2023, will be toured for the first time come summer. On April 3, the Royal Collection Trust announced that the iconic palace will open the wing via the Principal Floor following five years of restorative work.

Jonathan Brady - WPA Pool /Getty

The East Wing includes the front façade and iconic palace balcony, "where the monarch and members of the royal family have gathered for public appearances during special occasions or historic moments since 1851," including royal weddings, coronations and Trooping the Colour, the annual celebration of the monarch's birthday.

The Royal Collection Trust said that the royal family still uses the wing today for official meetings and events.

Royal watchers can save the date for East Wing Highlights Tours held daily in July and August starting July 15, booked in addition to standard admission to the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace.

Chris Jackson/Getty 

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

The palace will be open seven days a week in July and August for the first time since 2019 before scaling back to five days a week in September.

While Buckingham Palace is synonymous with the British royals and serves as the hub of the monarchy’s operations, King Charles and Queen Camilla don’t actually live there! The palace is in the middle of a $460 million renovation reportedly not due to be complete until 2027 .

Stuart C. Wilson/Getty

As King Charles, 75, invites the public into new nooks for the first time this summer, The Times cited royal biographer Robert Hardman’s prediction that the King would open up Balmoral during his reign.

"Balmoral is private property. However, it needs public footfall not just to help pay the bills but to bring benefits to the wider community and to remain in step with other stately homes," the outlet quoted Hardman as writing in Charles III. New King. New Court. The Inside Story 2024 , which was published under the title The Making of a King: King Charles III and the Modern Monarchy in the U.S. in January.

Related Articles