Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace which includes heritage architecture, skyline and a castle
This luxury residence of the oldest royal family in the world is still a national icon, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Home to the British Royal family since 1837, Buckingham Palace has for centuries been at the forefront of true British tradition. Having hosted countless lavish banquets, foreign dignitary receptions and state degrees, this elegant palace has withstood decades of change and stands today as the symbol of Britain’s constitutional monarchy.

Originally constructed for the Duke of Buckingham in 1705, the palace has constantly expanded over the years and now holds a staggering 777 rooms. As such, it is one of the most visited places in the world, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe.

Upon entering Buckingham Palace you will immediately be struck by the luxurious decoration and gothic eccentricity of the building’s interior. A white marble staircase ascends in all its elegance from the entrance of the Great Hall, leading to the palace’s many rooms and banquet areas. The throne room has regal gold-accented candelabras and is decorated in traditional sovereign red. Walking through will take you to the balcony that has become so famous over the years, most recently as the place where Prince William and Catherine Middleton shared a kiss in front of the whole world following their wedding in April 2011.

Art lovers will enjoy what Buckingham Palace has to offer. Much of the palace’s private collection would give even the most prestigious museums a run for their money. Each piece of furniture is a unique masterpiece and includes works from artists such as Rembrandt.

With so many rooms, the palace is a maze of luxury and magnificence. During August and September, 19 rooms are open to the public for touring. Visitors are advised to pre-book their visit beforehand on the official Buckingham Palace website. There’s an admission fee, which includes an audio tour.

No London experience would be complete without witnessing the famous changing the guard ceremony. The event takes place at 11:15 a.m. prompt on scheduled days, apart from during the winter months.

Finish your trip at the palace by taking a gentle stroll across to Hyde Park, the Kensington district and Green Park. For those with weary feet, the Underground is always nearby with access to London’s parks, just a few stops away.

Reviews of Buckingham Palace

4.4
Top destination
5 - Excellent
506
" "5 - Excellent 50.398406374501995%
4 - Good
405
" "4 - Good 40.33864541832669%
3 - Okay
70
" "3 - Okay 6.972111553784861%
2 - Disappointing
9
" "2 - Disappointing 0.896414342629482%
1 - Terrible
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" "1 - Terrible 1.3944223107569722%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
17 Mar 2020

Go early or you wont see the changing of the guards

5/5 - Excellent

Brenda
2 Sep 2019

If open, go to the visit of the State Rooms, it is very worthwhile.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
1 Aug 2019

Buy tickets beforehand at Gate A for timed ticket or if you want to go to the Mews you can buy a package there and queue was shorter. Arrive at gate C about 10 minutes before time, as you are called forward for your time. The gates are to the left of Buckingham Palace front and just around the corner.

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveller
4 Jun 2019

crowded

4/5 - Good

Mandy
3 Jun 2019

It's iconic, how could you not go to Buckingham Palace when you go to London? You stand outside the gates. The building is remarkable. You can see the iconic guards dressed in red with their big black fluffy hats. If you are lucky, you can see the changing of the guard. Even if you don't, there is always one marching around back and forth. This is more of a relaxing venue as there isn't much to do but just look. Hyde park is nearby, so you can go get an ice cream and relax on the grass after seeing Buckingham Palace!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
29 May 2019

Look up the time of the changing of the guard to see it!

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