About Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of the UK's sovereigns since 1837 and is one of the few working royal palaces remaining in the world. With 775 rooms including 19 State Rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms, it's the administrative headquarters of the Monarch.
The Palace is open to visitors during the summer months (July-September) when the Royal Family is not in residence. Visitors can tour the magnificent State Rooms, admire priceless works of art from the Royal Collection, and explore the beautiful Palace Gardens.
The Changing of the Guard
👑 Ceremony Schedule
When: 11:00 AM (10:00 AM on Sundays)
Frequency: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday (daily in summer)
Duration: 45 minutes
Best Viewing: Arrive by 10:15 AM for a good spot at the palace railings
⚠️ Schedule subject to change due to weather or state events. Check official website before visiting.
🎺 What to Expect
The Changing of the Guard is a colorful ceremony where the Old Guard hands over responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace to the New Guard. The Guards march from Wellington Barracks to Buckingham Palace accompanied by a military band playing traditional and contemporary music.
Watch the precision drill, hear the commands, and see the iconic red tunics and bearskin hats up close. The ceremony is free to watch and attracts thousands of visitors daily.
📍 Best Viewing Spots
- • Palace Railings: Front-row view but arrives early (10:15 AM)
- • Victoria Memorial: Elevated view of the entire ceremony
- • The Mall: Watch the guards march from St. James's Palace
- • Wellington Barracks: See the guards prepare before marching
The State Rooms
The State Rooms are the public rooms in Buckingham Palace where the King carries out official and ceremonial duties. These magnificent rooms are lavishly furnished with treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto.
🏛️ Throne Room
See the thrones used during coronation ceremonies and official royal photographs. The room features a stunning proscenium arch and is used for formal occasions and state receptions.
🎨 Picture Gallery
Walk through the 47-meter gallery displaying masterpieces from the Royal Collection, including works by Van Dyck, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. The skylit gallery is one of the finest rooms in the Palace.
🍽️ State Dining Room
Marvel at the room where state banquets are held for up to 170 guests. The table can extend to seat all guests, and the room is adorned with portraits of monarchs and royal family members.
🌸 Palace Gardens
Explore the 39-acre garden, the largest private garden in London. See the 156-meter Herbaceous Border, the Rose Garden, and the Palace's lake. Garden tours available during summer opening.
Visitor Information
🕐 Opening Times (Summer Opening)
Dates: Mid-July to end of September
Hours: 9:30 AM - 7:30 PM (last admission 5:15 PM)
⚠️ The Palace is closed to visitors from October to June when the Royal Family is in residence.
💷 Ticket Prices (2025)
Adult: £33.00
Over 60/Student: £30.00
Under 17/Disabled: £21.00
Under 5: FREE
Family (2 adults + 3 under 17): £85.00
💡 Tip: Book online in advance - tickets sell out quickly during summer!
📍 Getting There
Nearest Tube: Victoria (5 min walk), Green Park (10 min walk), St. James's Park (10 min walk)
Bus: Routes 11, 211, C1, C10 stop nearby
Address: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA
Insider Tips
Book Early
State Rooms tickets sell out weeks in advance. Book as soon as tickets go on sale (usually April) for summer visits.
Visit Early Morning
The first entry slot (9:30 AM) is least crowded. You'll have more space to appreciate the State Rooms and take photos.
Use the Audio Guide
The free multimedia guide (included in ticket) provides fascinating insights into the rooms, artworks, and royal history.
Photography Policy
Photography is allowed in the State Rooms and Gardens. No flash photography. Selfie sticks and tripods are not permitted.
Royal Collection Shop
The gift shop sells exclusive royal souvenirs, books, and replicas of items from the Royal Collection. Open year-round.
Nearby Attractions
St. James's Park
Beautiful royal park with lake, pelicans, and stunning views of Buckingham Palace. Perfect for a post-visit stroll.
Distance: Adjacent • Time: 2 min walk
Westminster Abbey
Historic church where coronations and royal weddings take place. See the tombs of monarchs and famous Britons.
Distance: 1km • Time: 12 min walk
Churchill War Rooms
Underground bunker where Churchill directed WWII operations. Fascinating museum of wartime Britain.
Distance: 800m • Time: 10 min walk
The Queen's Gallery
Adjacent to the Palace, showcasing rotating exhibitions from the Royal Collection. Open year-round.
Distance: Adjacent • Time: 2 min walk
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit Buckingham Palace year-round?
No, the State Rooms are only open to visitors during summer (mid-July to end of September) when the Royal Family is not in residence. The Changing of the Guard ceremony happens year-round (weather permitting).
Is the Changing of the Guard ceremony free?
Yes, the Changing of the Guard is completely free to watch. No tickets required - just arrive early to get a good viewing spot.
How long does a State Rooms visit take?
Allow 2-3 hours to tour the State Rooms and Gardens at a comfortable pace. The audio guide takes about 2 hours to complete.
Can I see the Royal Family during my visit?
The Royal Family is not in residence during the summer opening, so you won't see them during State Rooms tours. However, you might spot them during official events or ceremonies at other times of year.
Is Buckingham Palace wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the State Rooms are wheelchair accessible via a lift. Wheelchairs are available to borrow free of charge. Contact the Visitor Office in advance to arrange access.