Buckingham Palace travel guide

Buckingham Palace, situated in the heart of Westminster, is a symbol of royal status and architectural grandeur. The palace's story began in 1761 when King George III bought Buckingham House, which was later transformed into a palace by architects John Nash and Edward Blore.

Over the years, the palace has undergone numerous changes and expansions, including the addition of the famous balcony, where the royal family greets the public during significant events. The palace officially became the sovereign's London residence when Queen Victoria ascended to the throne in 1837.

Today, Buckingham Palace serves as the Queen's administrative headquarters and is a venue for many royal ceremonies, state functions, and tours. It is indeed a must-visit for anyone interested in the grandeur of royal history and architecture.

Buckingham Palace is a remarkable embodiment of architectural grandeur, boasting 775 rooms including 19 State rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. A key feature is the opulent State Rooms, furnished with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto. The palace's grand façade, with the famous balcony where the royal family appears during events, is another distinctive aspect.

The palace is also home to the Queen's Gallery, featuring rotating exhibitions of items from the royal art collection. The gardens of Buckingham Palace are famously the largest private gardens in London, showcasing a diverse range of flora and fauna. The Changing of the Guard, a time-honored ceremony, is another unique spectacle that draws millions of tourists each year. Lastly, the Buckingham Palace Mews, home to the royal stables and the collection of historic coaches and carriages, is an exceptional feature of this royal residence.

Discover Buckingham Palace, a prime feature of London, in the vibrant City of Westminster. Buckingham Palace is situated at London SW1A 1AA, UK, just a short distance from The Green Park and Churchill War Rooms, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Buckingham Palace, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of London, a city in England rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit London to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Buckingham Palace. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive London travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Buckingham Palace is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in London, England. If you're flying in, Gatwick Airport is approximately 24.5 miles (39.4 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Buckingham Palace by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in London, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Buckingham Palace, which is located 0.7 miles (1.2 km) from the city center. Its exact address is London SW1A 1AA, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Buckingham Palace!

The best time to explore Buckingham Palace is during the summer, between July and September, when the State Rooms are open to the public. During this period, the weather in Westminster is typically sunny and mild, making it an ideal time for sightseeing. Although it's a popular season and crowds are expected, the experience is well worth it because visitors can enjoy a rare peek into the palace's lavish interiors. Adding charm to this season are the Changing of the Guard ceremonies that occur daily, providing a unique British spectacle for tourists. To avoid the highest crowd levels, consider visiting on a weekday and purchasing tickets in advance. For those seeking a quieter visit, spring and fall also offer moderate temperatures and typically fewer tourists. However, please note that full access to the palace is more limited outside the summer months. Regardless of the season, a visit to Buckingham Palace promises a memorable experience steeped in history and grandeur.

To truly enjoy your visit to Buckingham Palace, joining a guided tour of this renowned palace in London is highly recommended. As one of England's most iconic attractions, Buckingham Palace draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in London, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Buckingham Palace starting at just 20.34 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Buckingham Palace, perfectly planned travel packages to London make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to London, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Buckingham Palace.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic palace in England.

Choosing the right accommodation near Buckingham Palace from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in London can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Buckingham Palace, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Buckingham Palace, London boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to establishment, the top attractions in London offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in London is Trafalgar Square, located at Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DS, UK. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Madame Tussauds London is worth seeing when you're in London. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LR, UK.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Big Ben completes any trip to London. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at London SW1A 0AA, UK, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in London below to discover even more incredible places to explore.