The official London residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace has been the working headquarters of the Royal Family since 1837. Visitors can watch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony in the forecourt. The State Rooms are open to the public during summer (August-September). The gardens host summer garden parties for 30,000 guests annually.
Buckingham Palace in Westminster, London, has been the official London residence of the British monarch since Queen Victoria moved here in 1837. The palace, which began as Buckingham House built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703, was progressively enlarged and remodelled until the current east-facing facade — designed by Sir Aston Webb in 1913 — was completed. The palace contains 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. The forecourt is the scene of the Changing of the Guard ceremony, one of London's most popular spectacles, during which the Old Guard is relieved by the New Guard with military music and pageantry lasting approximately 45 minutes and typically starting at 11AM. During summer (approximately late July to late September), the 19 State Rooms are opened to the public. Visitors move through a formal route taking in the Throne Room, the Picture Gallery (housing works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck from the Royal Collection), and the Grand Staircase. The Royal Mews adjacent to the palace displays state coaches and carriages year-round. The Queen's Gallery, also adjacent, shows changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection and can be visited independently of the State Rooms. The bronze Victoria Memorial at the palace gates is freely accessible at all times, and St James's Park directly across The Mall offers views of the palace and its gardens without charge.
Good to know
- Best time
- Arrive early for front-row spots at Changing of the Guard
Location
51.5014, -0.1419 View on map
Highlights
- Changing of the Guard ceremony
- State Rooms (summer only)
- Victoria Memorial
- Palace gardens
- Royal Mews
Tips for visiting
- Guard ceremony times vary; check royal.uk for schedule
- Book State Rooms tickets well in advance
When to visit
Arrive by 10AM to secure a good position for the Changing of the Guard, which begins at 11AM. The ceremony is busiest in summer; standing near the front railings on Buckingham Palace Road provides the best unobstructed view. State Room visits are most comfortable on weekday mornings.
Accessibility
The Victoria Memorial and The Mall are fully accessible. The State Rooms tour includes a step-free route; request this when booking through the Royal Collection Trust. The Royal Mews is partially accessible; contact the venue in advance for details.
Frequently asked questions
When can visitors see inside Buckingham Palace?
The State Rooms are open to the public from approximately late July to late September each year. Tickets must be booked in advance through the Royal Collection Trust website at rct.uk.
How often does the Changing of the Guard happen?
The Changing of the Guard runs daily in summer and on alternate days in winter, but is subject to cancellation due to weather or state events. Check the official royal.uk schedule before visiting.
Is there a free way to experience Buckingham Palace?
The palace exterior, Victoria Memorial, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony can all be viewed without charge. St James's Park directly across The Mall offers pleasant views of the palace rear at any time.