The monarch's official London residence since 1837, built around an earlier house acquired by George III. The State Rooms, used for official and ceremonial functions, open to the public only in summer while the King is away from London, and are furnished with pieces from the Royal Collection. Outside those months, the main draw is the building's exterior and forecourt.
Buckingham Palace in Westminster, London, is the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch. The 19 State Rooms, used for official and ceremonial occasions, open to the public only in late July through September while the Royal Family is in residence at Balmoral. The self-guided tour route passes through the Grand Staircase, the Throne Room, and the Picture Gallery, which holds works by Rembrandt, Vermeer and Rubens from the Royal Collection, before opening onto the 39-acre palace garden, the largest private garden in London, for the final stretch. Outside the ticketed season, visitors can still view the palace's neoclassical facade from the forecourt and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, held on select days at 11:00. A State Rooms visit typically takes two to three hours, while the guard ceremony itself lasts about 30 to 45 minutes including the march. The forecourt and the Mall approaching the palace get very crowded for the Changing of the Guard, so arriving 30 to 45 minutes early secures a clear view along the railings. The palace's Rococo-revival interiors, gilded ceilings, and the ceremonial ritual of the guard change make it one of London's most visited royal landmarks.
| Admission | State Rooms: adults £32 / approx USD 41; children £18 / approx USD 23. Combined ticket with Royal Mews: £49 / approx USD 62. Book at rct.uk/visit/the-state-rooms-buckingham-palace. |
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| Hours | State Rooms open July–September daily 09:30–19:30 (last admission 17:15). Royal Mews and Queen's Gallery open year-round. |
| Typical visit | 2–3 hours (State Rooms); 30 minutes (Changing of the Guard) |
| Best time | Changing of the Guard: Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun at 11:00 (check schedule at householddivision.org.uk as it varies) |
| Getting there | Tube: Victoria (Circle/District/Victoria lines) or St James's Park (Circle/District); 5–10 minute walk |
| Address | Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA |
Location
Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA
51.5014, -0.1419 View on map
Highlights
- State Rooms with the Royal Collection's art and furnishings
- Picture Gallery featuring Rembrandt and Vermeer
- Throne Room and Grand Staircase
- 39-acre palace garden on the tour's final stretch
- Changing of the Guard ceremony at the forecourt
Tips for visiting
- Book timed-entry State Room tickets online in advance; they are only available July to September
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early for the Changing of the Guard to get a good view along the railings
- A combined ticket with the Royal Mews saves money over separate admissions
- An audio guide is included with State Room admission
- The guard ceremony schedule varies seasonally; check householddivision.org.uk before visiting
When to visit
The State Rooms open only from late July to September; the Changing of the Guard is held Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 11:00, though the schedule varies seasonally.
Accessibility
Step-free access to the State Rooms is available via a lift, with wheelchairs provided; advance notice is recommended for visitors with mobility needs.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Buckingham Palace take?
The State Rooms tour takes two to three hours; watching the Changing of the Guard takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Is Buckingham Palace worth it for kids?
The Changing of the Guard is popular with children of all ages, while the State Rooms tour suits older children with an interest in history.
Is photography allowed inside Buckingham Palace?
Photography is not permitted inside the State Rooms, but it is allowed in the garden and outside on the forecourt.