Buckingham Palace

We were able to book a private tour of the State Rooms through the Royal Collection website. This is offered a few days during August and September (the last one being Sept. 5, when we took it.) Although it was expensive, it was well worth it as we were able to tour the State Rooms with a private guide provided by the Palace, and 28 other people. We saw a few rooms that the public is not allowed to see, and the whole experiece was wonderful. Even if you don't get to take the private tour, Buckingham Palace is worth seeing. We have nothing in the U.S. that comes close to it.

I've seen Versailles, and other castles in Europe, but Buckingham Palace was by far the most impressive. The rooms were stunning, and the Palace Ballroom that was set up for a State Banquet, was amazing! We didn't get to see the Mews or the Queen's Gallery during our London visit, but no matter, as Buckingham was the highlight of our trip with Windsor Castle coming in a close 2nd.

My husband and I took the State Rooms tour on 31 August. From start to finish the tour was well organized. We bought tickets for the 3:45 p.m. tour. We were early, so we visited the palace gift shop across the street.

The tour was everything we had hoped for and more. One of the highlights was the ballroom that had been set up as for a State dinner. Spectacular! The audio tour was excellent and described everything so well. The rear gardens are gorgeous. There is a lovely pond. We sat on a bench and just marveled at the view. Definitely worth visiting!