Buckingham Palace is the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch. With 775 rooms including 19 State Rooms, it has been the royal family's home since 1837. The palace opens to visitors during summer (July-September) when the Royal Family is away, offering tours of the lavish State Rooms used for official entertaining. The famous Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place in the forecourt, attracting thousands of visitors daily.
State Rooms open SUMMER ONLY (Jul-Sep). Changing of Guard FREE daily 11:00 (not every day in winter). Book ahead for palace
Book well in advance as summer tickets sell out. Changing of the Guard: 11:00am most days (check schedule online). Gardens quieter in late afternoon
Nearest Tube: Victoria (Victoria, District, Circle lines), Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, Victoria), or Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly). Bus routes to Victoria or Hyde Park Corner.
A 2-2.5 hour tour through opulent State Rooms including the White Drawing Room, Throne Room, and Ballroom. Magnificent art collection, chandeliers, and furnishings. Gardens can be added. The Changing of the Guard outside is a colorful ceremony with music and precision marching.
State Rooms open SUMMER ONLY (July-September). Tickets £32 adults, £16 children 5-17, under 5 free. September: closed Tue-Wed, closes 6:30pm. Winter: exclusive tours £90 only. Book in advance - no walk-ups!
faq.subtitle Buckingham Palace
The State Rooms are only open during Summer Opening (typically July-September) when the Royal Family is at Balmoral. Limited guided tours available on winter weekends. The Changing of the Guard can be watched free year-round (check schedule).
Yes, watching the Changing of the Guard from outside the palace gates is completely free. It happens at 11:00am on most days but not daily - check the official schedule. Arrive 30-45 minutes early for a good viewing spot.
Useful tips for visiting Buckingham Palace
Interior photography not allowed. Free multimedia guide in 9 languages included. 2025 tours include extended East Wing tour with restored Chinese Dining Room. Combine State Rooms with Garden Highlights Tour. Arrive early for Changing of the Guard.
Nearest Tube: Victoria (Victoria, District, Circle lines), Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, Victoria), or Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly). Bus routes to Victoria or Hyde Park Corner
A 2-2.5 hour tour through opulent State Rooms including the White Drawing Room, Throne Room, and Ballroom. Magnificent art collection, chandeliers, and furnishings. Gardens can be added. The Changing of the Guard outside is a colorful ceremony with music and precision marching.
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