London

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence and administrative office of the British royal family since the 19th century and is one of the few remaining working royal palaces in the world. Access for the public is limited and exclusive but worthwhile for those who arrange a visit.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE

Buckingham Palace is one of England’s most famous landmarks. Visitors can always view its opulent exterior through the gates, but visits must be timed right to tour the interior. During its summer opening, travelers can peek into the state rooms, see the Throne Room, stroll through the palace gardens, and admire masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt and Canaletto in Queen Victoria’s Picture Gallery.

Things to Know Before You Go

  • The palace is a must for history buffs and royal enthusiasts.
  • Pair a stop at Buckingham Palace with the Changing of the Guard ceremony and afternoon tea for a quintessential London experience.
  • Tours of the palace interior are only available in summer from late June to late September, while the queen is on holiday in Scotland.
  • If the Royal Standard flag is flying atop the palace, it means the queen is in residence; otherwise, the Union Jack flag is flown.

How to Get There

Buckingham Palace is located in central London at the heart of St. James Park. It’s a pleasant stroll from London attractions such as Westminster Cathedral and Big Ben and is often included as a stop on city walking tours.

When to Get There

The best time to visit Buckingham Palace is during the legendary Changing of the Guard ceremony, when the royal guards change shifts. This takes place daily at 11:30am but can be canceled in bad weather. The palace interior is only open to the public during summer, from late July until the end of September, with tours running daily from 9:30am to 7:30pm (until 6:30pm in September). You’ll want to book this coveted experience in advance.

Nearby Royal Sites

Windsor Castle is the nearest queen’s residence to Buckingham, located just outside London. It can be visited on a quick, half-day trip from the city. And although not royal in nature, Westminster Abbey is the resting place of many English monarchs and the site of some royal family weddings (including that of Prince William and Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge).

Buckingham Palace Tours

Buckingham Palace Tour Including Changing of the Guard Ceremony
Delve into London’s rich royal heritage during a visit to Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guard Ceremony. Marvel at the traditional Changing of the Guard performance, which involves meticulously dressed soldiers marching to the rhythm of military drums. Then, enjoy an exclusive experience as you enter the opulent State Rooms of Buckingham Palace for an independent audio tour. See lavish chambers during a tour only available for two months of the year, and gain fascinating insight into the history of the British monarchy.
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Changing of the Guard Small-Group Walking Tour
No visit to England would be complete without experiencing quintessential traditions such as the Changing of the Guard. See British culture come to life from select prime vantage points. In a small group limited to 20, observe the Queen’s iconic foot guards, clad in red tunics and bearskin hats, and watch the household cavalry put on an impressive display. Follow history-rich guide commentary with ease using a headset.
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Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Day Trip from London
Visit two of England’s grandest royal residences on this day trip to Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace. Traveling from London by air-conditioned coach, enjoy an audio-guided tour of the magnificent State Rooms and treasures of Buckingham Palace, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s main London residence. Then head for Windsor Castle in Windsor. Explore her majesty’s royal palace, and enjoy a visit to St George’s Chapel. Depending on the day, view the Changing of the Guard. Finish off your tour with a stop at the famous Harrod’s on your return to London.
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Total London Experience with London Eye, Tower of London, St Paul’s
Overview Visit some of London’s most iconic landmarks on this full-day tour, including a Thames River cruise and a ride on the famous London Eye. Take a tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral and admire panoramic views of the capital from your air-conditioned coach. There’s a chance to get a taste of Royal London too, as you tour the notorious Tower of London, view the Crown Jewels and watch the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Best-of-London-in-1-Day-London-Eye-Buckingham-Palace-Trafalgar-Square/d737-6839P76
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London Panoramic Open Top Bus Tour with Audio Guide

Sit back and relax as one of our well-ventilated open-top buses reconnects you with your favourite London landmarks. Glide past the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Circus in this 2 hours fully guided tour of Central London. This tour is not Hop-On Hop-Off and guests will be required to remain on the same bus for the duration of the tour. The buses will be running at reduced capacity and tickets will be sold in specific time slots to avoid overcrowding. Compulsory masks and gloves will be provided

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.

What’s the best way to experience Buckingham Palace?