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.

Located in the dynamic City of Westminster, the popular Buckingham Palace is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of London or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through England.

London is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, London offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in London and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Trafalgar Square, Madame Tussauds London, Big Ben, The Regent's Park, and Leicester Square.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, London has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in London, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in England!

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 London. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Buckingham Palace, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Buckingham Palace and other top attractions in London than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to London include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Buckingham Palace's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Buckingham Palace and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind royal palace in England.

Conveniently explore Buckingham Palace and plenty more captivating attractions in London by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Buckingham Palace and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that London has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Buckingham Palace below.

Aside from Buckingham Palace, London is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around London, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Trafalgar Square, Madame Tussauds London, and Big Ben.

Trafalgar Square is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in London, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Trafalgar Square is Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DS, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in London is Madame Tussauds London. Like Trafalgar Square, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 73,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LR, UK.

Big Ben is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of London. This establishment and top attraction in London has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 65,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of London SW1A 0AA, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of London below.