Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace serves as both the office and London residence of Her Majesty The Queen. It is one of the few working royal palaces remaining in the world today.

What is there to see at Buckingham Palace?

During the summer and on selected dates from November to December and at Easter, visitors can tour the 19 State Rooms, which form the heart of the Palace. These magnificent rooms are decorated with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto.

This spectacular exhibition, alongside the summer opening of Buckingham Palace, includes an unprecedented display of a number of The Queen’s personal jewels.

The Royal Mews and The Queen’s Gallery are part of the Buckingham Palace site, but have their own visitor entrances and so can be visited separately, or as part of a combined ticket. Both venues are open for most of the year, including when the palace itself is closed.

Try to time your visit to see Changing the Guard, a popular free event which takes place outside Buckingham Palace on certain days from 10.45am and lasts around 45 minutes, with the actual handover taking place at 11am. Be sure to arrive early to secure a spot with a good view.

How can I get tickets to Buckingham Palace?

Tickets to visit Buckingham Palace on a guided tour (on selected dates) must be booked in advance on the Royal Collection Trust’s website.

Tickets for the Buckingham Palace and Garden Tour: summer opening 2022 will be available to purchase nearer the time.

Where is Buckingham Palace?

Buckingham Palace is located in the City of Westminster in central London.

How to get to Buckingham Palace

The closest Tube stations are Victoria, Green Park and Hyde Park Corner. Several buses also stop nearby. If you are arriving by coach, Victoria Coach Station is only a 10-minute walk away.

Who lives at Buckingham Palace?

Buckingham Palace is the Queen’s residence in London, as well as her administrative headquarters. The Queen often receives members of the Privy Council, foreign and British Ambassadors and High Commissioners, bishops, senior officers of the Armed Services and the Civil Service.

Many of the royals also hold private apartments here and use the palace as their London home base.

How long does it take to tour Buckingham Palace?

It takes between two hours and two hours and 30 minutes to explore Buckingham Palace. Guided tour times may differ.