how long is the state rooms tour at buckingham palace

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How To Visit Buckingham Palace In 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, And More

Eddie Saint-Jean Last Updated: January 18, 2024

Don’t just stand outside and look for the full-mast flag that means the monarch is home — go in! Buckingham Palace is the British Royal Family’s official residence and even you can visit. That said, it can be tricky and you’ll need to plan ahead. To help you out, I’ve put together this guide with info on tickets, tours, what to see, and the palace’s history. Here’s how to visit Buckingham Palace.

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to London  for more planning resources, our best Buckingham Palace tours  for a memorable trip, and the top things to do in London .

Visiting Buckingham Palace: What We’ll Cover

Witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic things you can do in London—after visiting the palace itself, of course.

As the official London residence of the British monarch since 1837, it is replete with all the opulence you would expect of kings and queens. If it’s on your bucket list, you’ll find out what you need to know about how to visit Buckingham Palace in this guide. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Opening hours and tickets
• How much time to budget for your visit
• What to see in Buckingham Palace
• Guided tour options
• Facts and history of Buckingham Palace
• Places to eat nearby

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if London tours are worth it .

Buckingham Palace Opening Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:

Visitors have access to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms and the Palace Garden for several weeks throughout the year. But for obvious security reasons, these can only be palace guided tours. Available dates vary based on the tours that the palace offers, but here’s what’s happening in 2023.

Palace-guided tours: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November to May. Tours usually start at 4:00 pm on Fridays, and 11:00 am through 2:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Summer tickets: July 14 – September 24, with State Rooms closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Tickets have a timed entry so you’ll want to book ahead , but the palace is open from 9:30 am to the last admission at 5:15 in July and August, and 4:15 in September.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place outside the palace building but within its gates. The public can view this ceremony without a ticket around 10:40 to 11:00 am every day. This time is not exact and is also dependent on weather. The ceremony only happens everyday in June/July and on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays for the rest of the year.

Tickets and Tours:

Tickets must be booked online or booked here for a guided tour that includes the area around Buckingham Palace.

Palace-guided tours in the winter and spring:

Adults: £90 Family guided tour: ages 5-17 is £49.50, under 5 is free

Summer Buckingham Palace tickets if purchased in advance:

Adults: £30 Young adults (18-24): £19.50 Child (5-17): £16.50 Disabled: £16.50 Under 5: Free Families: automatic discount for 1 adult and 2 children or up to 2 adults and 4 children

Pro Tip: Your tickets can be validated for up to a year if you ask a Warden to stamp it before leaving!

Address: Buckingham Palace

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best London tours to take and why .

How Long To Spend at Buckingham Palace

Short Answer: 2.5 hours for the State Rooms or 4.5 hours for the Royal Day Out

There are 19 State Rooms (the palace has a total of 775 rooms) so a meaningful visit will take a few hours. You’ll have access to several of the most ornately decorated rooms with treasures from the Royal Collection, paintings by old master artists, expensive sculptures, and elegant English and French furniture.

Also, you get to see the opulent and historic Throne Room. You might agree as I do that the White Drawing Room is even grander than the Throne Room. Find out for yourself!

What To See In Buckingham Palace

On your visit to the royal residence, make sure you see these incredible rooms and sights. There’s a lot of history and opulence to take in as you see Buckingham Palace. For a more detailed list with history, check out our article on the top things to see at the palace.

• The Changing Of The Guard
• The Throne Room
• The Queen’s Gallery
• The White Drawing Room 
• The Palace Garden
• Treasures Of The Palace
• The Ballroom
• The Gold State Coach
• The Diamond Jubilee State Coach
• The Grand Staircase

Buckingham Palace Tour Options

Guided tours to see Buckingham Palace, the Changing of the Guard, and other important areas around this royal area are the best way to get to know this historic site. We offer several top-rated tours that you can choose to make your vacation in London the best ever.

The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour (2.5 hours)

Anyone can take an audio-guided tour, but if you book this tour, you get the special attention of a tour guide who knows incredible stories you won’t hear on that audio guide. Plus, you’ll first explore the serene St. James Park where you’ll hear about it’s transformation from a swampland to a deer park and a quiet oasis.

You’ll feel like you know the royals even better after exploring the Mall where official processionals and the Changing of the Guard have happened for centuries. Rest assured that your guide will get you to the right door at Buckingham Palace after entertaining you with stories of what you’ll see inside.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard (3 hours)

Clients love our skip-the-line access to the famous Westminster Abbey where they can enjoy a few minutes of quiet time with their guide in the nave of the abbey before the public enters.

There’s more to see at Westminster than you think, so having a knowledgeable guide to lead you through the Quire, Poet’s Corner, and more, is extremely helpful. And if the Changing of the Guard happens on the day of your tour, they’ll be sure to help you see it from several vantage points.

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London (7 hours)

Our top-selling London tour is a must-do when you’re traveling to the heart of the United Kingdom. Your local guides are highly qualified and can share an unreal amount of cool facts and stories about London’s iconic sites and history. Starting at Westminster Abbey, you’ll be amazed at just how much of London you can see on foot and on a Thames river cruise.

Your skip-the-line tickets help you maximize your time, and your guides know where the best spots to see the Changing of the Guard are found. Your final stop at the Tower of London brings London’s more grisly history to life. It’s the perfect place to end your busy day tour of London!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if sightseeing tours in London are worth it .

Buckingham Palace Facts and History 

• The palace has a total of 775 rooms, 19 of which are state rooms open to the public. 
• There have been many properties on the site. From 1698, however, it was known as Buckingham House and was the home of the Duke of Buckingham, where it gets its name.
• In 1761, it became known as the Queen’s House after George III bought it for his wife Queen Charlotte.
• It became a palace for the first time in the 1820s when George IV had it lavishly restructured fit for a king.
• The royal family made it their official residence in 1837, and Queen Victoria was the first royal to officially live there as head of state.
• The palace entertains 50,000 invited guests a year. Also, it averages 578,000 paid visitors a year.
• The Changing of the Guard ceremony happens daily at 10.45 am. King Henry VII made them the official Royal Body Guard 500 years ago. 
• During World War II, the palace was repeatedly targeted but survived nine bombing raids. The Royal Family refused to move out despite concerns for their safety.
• The palace is heavily protected but in 1982 an intruder called Michael Fagan broke into the Queen’s bedroom while she was sleeping. When she awoke, they had a brief chat before she fled the room and raised the alarm.

Places To Eat Nearby

The good news is your dining options are plentiful, but you’ll need to choose wisely. You can dine like royalty on Buckingham Palace Road, very close to the palace. Or, on the same stretch of road, there are sandwich bars with a more laid-back atmosphere and casual dining.

Take your pick of traditional British fare or more exotic cuisines. Here are a few suggestions, but if you’d like more options, also check out our guide to the best restaurants near Buckingham Palace . 

The Laughing Halibut : £ | Takeaway —Grab some old-school fish and chips to take away or take a seat inside. It’s a great place for a quick lunch with good reviews.

Bon Gusto : ££ | Italian Cuisine —Fancy a change from British grub? Try this Italian restaurant with a selection of meat, seafood, and pasta dishes. There are also soups and Mediterranean salads.  

The English Grill : ££££ | Traditional British Fare —This restaurant promises you’ll dine like royalty. Indeed, it is ornately decorated with regal furniture and furnishings. You can enjoy traditional afternoon tea in a garden overlooking the Royal Mews. Also, the range of steak, salad, and dessert dishes (to name a few) are product-sourced from the same Royal suppliers as Buckingham Palace.

Find the best places to stay

Where To Stay in London

Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.

Reader Interactions

Comments (10).

June 30, 2022

We Want to visit inside Buckingham Palace either on 13th or 14th July. Can you help us tour and visit it?

July 5, 2022

We don’t currently offer Buckingham Palace tours, but we’d love to take you around London to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, plus even more great locations on our London in a Day tour and Westminster Abbey tour .

July 1, 2022

Will we be able to turn up at Buckingham Palace and buy a ticket on the day? Shanthi

[email protected]

Not necessarily. Since the royal family uses Buckingham Palace, schedules and public access are subject to changes at short notice. Additionally, tours are not available every day. It’s best to plan ahead and purchase tickets before you arrive to have the best chance of entering the palace.

September 19, 2022

It’s my 70th birthday august 21 2023 and I would like to bring my children/grandchildren to visit Buckingham Palace. There will be 2 x Oaps, 3 adults, 1 child aged 9 and 1 aged 4. What would you recommend and at what cost? Thank you for your help Best wishes

September 21, 2022

What a fun trip! You can check their website for tickets next season. The palace is only open for 10 weeks in the summer, and it’s closed early this year due to the queen’s death. You can also book a trip out to Windsor Castle and Stonehenge for fun day trip to another royal residence.

In your ‘blurb’ “It became a palace for the first time in the 1820s when George VI had it lavishly restructured to be fit for a king.” This is incorrect. In actual fact it was ‘King George IV’ who died in 1830 King George VI was Queen Elizabeth II father and died in 1952

Thanks for letting us know about that typo! It makes a difference of generations!

I purchased four Buckingham Palace tour tickets for Thursday, September 29. I do have my confirmation email, but I don’t have the actual ticket email. If I would email my customer and order numbers to an office or a person, is there some way I could please get the email with the actual tickets.

Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time and assistance with this matter.

You’ll need to check with the company from whom you purchased your ticket as they’ll have the accurate information.

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How long to visit Buckingham Palace State Rooms

by annisa | Aug 26, 2019 | Things to do in London , Top 10 Attractions | 0 comments

Table of Contents

How to make the most of the Buckingham Palace State Rooms

If you said yes to all questions below, then I’m going to take you on a journey to Buckingham Palace State Rooms where the British royal family started their journey to being an aristocratic royal. We weren’t allowed to take pictures inside for security reasons.

Are you a big fan of the British royal family?

Do you know that Queen Elizabeth II is the longest monarch that’s still alive in Europe since 1926? She is ranked sixth in her duration in the monarchy.

Do you want to learn more about Queen Victoria and Prince Albert spending time at the Buckingham Palace State Rooms?

Have you thought about what it would be like to be in the grounds of the Buckingham Palace State Rooms? Imagine Buckingham Palace State Rooms in the 17th Century and how it has reflected itself in the present moment.

The Buckingham Palace State Rooms is one of 8 reasons to visit Buckingham Palace.

When visiting the Buckingham Palace State Rooms, make sure you give yourself at least 2 hours of your time, however, you can stay there for as long as possible. There are so many rooms and items that are worth visiting.

The tour took me 2 and a half hours, and I paid £25 for the tour through the Fever App. I feel £25 is quite expensive for 2 and a half hours, you can just find the information online, however, please shop online for better deals. You can download the Fever app where you’ll find so many things to do and see in London. You can read more about my experience on the app down below.

The rooms you see online are bigger than what it is. There are so many rooms, but the sizes are quite small, and there are so many people squeezing past you that you’d have to take turns to read descriptions of items and what the rooms are used for.

Your highlights include:

The Grand Hall

Grand Staircase

Green Drawing Room

State Dining Room

Blue Drawing Room

White Drawing Room

Throne Room

Buckingham Palace History

King George III made Buckingham Palace his home in 1761 with his wife Queen Charlotte and their children, and it is already 318 years old. It wasn’t really a palace when he moved in, it was just a big mansion or a house, but by mid 1800s, he eventually made it into a palace, King George IV then commissioned architect John Nash to design it into a grand palace. Ever since then, his descendants, including our own Queen of England Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Princes William and their kids have grown up here.

There are 19 State Rooms in Buckingham Palace where the Royal Family has been entertaining their guests and holding their meetings with Very Important People around the world, hence, this is why we call it the State Rooms.

Find out about the palace by clicking on their website.  

How to get there

If you are going to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms from Victoria Station, you can walk through Bressenden Place which will link you to Buckingham Gate, turn right and walk straight on, turn right again until you see Buckingham Palace and the Victoria Memorial. Alternatively, you can take the tube to Green Park Station, and walk through Green Park where you’ll see the Canada Gate in front of you. The entrance to the State Room will be on the side of the palace.

In front of Buckingham Palace, there are usually people taking photos of the palace and hang around by the Victoria Memorial. It was a great day, the sun was shining, and everyone enjoyed being there. In summer, there are usually around a thousand people gathering outside, and Buckingham Palace gets busier than any other seasons. In winter, it can be quiet, however, people still takes photos in front.

Buying my ticket through the Fever App to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms

You can only visit the State Rooms in Summer. Buying my ticket for the Buckingham Palace State Rooms through the Fever App online was easy, before I knew it, my ticket was already. However, if the Buckingham Palace State Rooms Visit is not on the app, that means the Fever App is not doing a promotion, so you may have to shop elsewhere.

The Fever app is a recommendation from me, and with this app, you can buy tickets to attractions and events in London every day with just a few clicks. A confirmation email was sent to say my payment was processed, and I got a scanned copy of my ticket by email a day before my visit for the 1:15 pm time slot. You’d have to choose a time slot to visit, you cannot just buy a ticket and walk-in, it’s not how it works unfortunately.

Alternatively, you can buy the Buckingham Palace tickets with the London Pass.

Before the tour

I came an hour early just to take pictures of the outer section of Buckingham Palace. It was quite difficult to take pictures of the guards because they were so far away and because there were a lot of people already, I was at the back of the crowd.

Before the tour, spend time admiring the Victoria Memorial, St. James’ Park, Hyde Park, or Green Park before you head in. It will be so convenient if you found accommodation near the palace. Take around 15 minutes taking photos, then start joining the queue 15 minutes before your slotted time.

I recommend walking around St. James’ Park or Hyde Park for an hour before or after you head in, they are more colourful and have more wildlife than Green Park. The line for the palace can be long, so make sure you get there at a reasonable time. Hyde Park is further away from Buckingham Palace than St. James’ Park but it’s only a ten-minute walk to the palace.

Going to the State Room

The Buckingham Palace State Rooms entrance was organised very well. There was a long queue and people were separated by types of tickets.

Since I booked my ticket online, she told me to go to Gate A and thought that I wouldn’t have to line up in the long queue. Gate A was just to pick up my hardcopy ticket to get to Gate C where the long queue was. Gate C is where they’d scan the tickets and take you to different sections of the queue. You can buy a hard copy book of Buckingham Palace, it’s quite expensive but it’s worth it if you’re not going to come back to London again.

Two sections divided the queue, one for the 1:15 pm time slot and one for the 1:30 pm time slot. The time slot for 1:30 pm couldn’t join the same queue as my time slot was for 1:15 pm. They had to wait. I wasn’t surprised by the fact that there were a lot, I mean a lot of people wanting to visit the State Room.

How long does it take to visit each area of Buckingham Palace State Rooms?

Before you head in, they give you headphones and a mini-interactive iPad. The best thing about the interactive iPad is that there are more than five languages if English isn’t your first language. Each item or room is numbered so if the Drawing Room is number 7, press number 7 on the iPad. The narrator will explain the history and the purpose of the Drawing Room. Below is a list of the things I saw and how long it took for me to spend time there:

The carriage, commissioned by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert on their journey to Dublin in the 1800s. The carriage is quite small too, considering Queen Victoria was a small person – 2 minutes to read and admire the carriage.

Grand Staircase where they have their important guests who visited the Queen for events and meetings. The Grand Staircase wasn’t as big as I thought, but it’s great to see. – 3 minutes to admire the decor.

Drawing-room where they have paintings of notable people related to the royal family. These include Van Dyck, Canova and Canaletto. The Drawing Room is larger, longer, lighter, and grander than any of the other rooms. 10 minutes to sit down in the drawing-room and 10 minutes to have a look at all the hundreds of paintings covering the room.

Throne chair that Queen Elizabeth used for her coronation as well as other formal photographs which include the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding. The Throne Chair is already torn and tattered because it has been there for so many years, but that’s the beauty of the throne chair. It’s old, vintage, and has a lot of stories to tell. – 1 minute.

The ballroom where Queen Victoria enjoyed her dances with her Prince and guests. The Ballroom is larger than most of the rooms, and you will see an interactive puppet show of people dancing. 5 minutes

The royal nursery is also large, but not large enough for her 9 children and her 42 grandchildren – 15 minutes to read about which royal babies slept in the nursery and several items Queen Victoria used for her children and grandchildren e.g. cots, Victorian baby costumes, etc.

Meeting rooms Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth invited for state functions, administrative duties, and personal meetings. – There were several meeting rooms in Buckingham Palace. The meeting rooms were quite small considering there were more than 100 people the royals invited for events. – 10 minutes each to admire the decor and read the descriptions of what each meeting room was used for.

Chandeliers and a large, mirrored door used privately for the royals to get access to the rooms. You can see the view of the royal garden with a large lake, trees, geese, and birds here.

In the garden

People were able to sit by the benches where they could take all the surroundings in the garden. The garden is vast with a coffee shop, a gift shop, and toilets. I also heard a couple talking behind me saying “Just imagine the Queen coming to the garden on her stressful day just talking to the trees and enjoying the atmosphere”. You could see the swans, birds chirping, and large tall and old ash and oak trees.  She might be right! Maybe the Queen does spend time in the garden to destress. It’s hard being a Queen! I spent 20 minutes in the coffee shop, 20 minutes sitting in the garden, and 10 minutes looking around the gift shop.

Annisa’s advice

How long you want to visit Buckingham Palace State Rooms depend on how long you want to stay there. I spent 2 and a half hours there and wanted to take my time to enjoy the experience. I heard people taking half a day spending time here.

Take time to take photos in front and back for 15 minutes to half an hour.

Enjoy your time at St. James’ Park before or after the tour where you can take advantage of wildlife, greenery, pelicans and so much more.

After my tour, at around 3 to 4 o’clock in the afternoon, I didn’t see any pelicans at St. James’ Park so maybe during feeding times at around 2:30 pm, you’d see them. I didn’t see any as I was too late, but they’re scattered anywhere in the park at any time. You just have to be lucky. You’ll usually find them near the Duck House Cottage and the Blue Bridge, and sometimes, can get up close and personal, as well as taking pictures with them. 

The State Room is only open during Summer. Bring a bottle of water with you as it can get hot.

Buy your ticket online and it will be downloaded through the Fever app. If you are too early, you can’t join the queue. You’d have to wait until the people for the earlier time slots enter the palace. Feel free to shop around for better deals. Don’t just rely on the Fever app.

The queue gets long but it moves down very quickly, and it was organised very well. I’m very sure that that there will be social distancing and safety precautions put into place since many London attractions have been very organised with their COVID rules.

There is no information on whether you can visit Buckingham Palace State Rooms in summer, but feel free to visit the Buckingham Palace virtual tour  on their website to get a feel of what it would be like when you visit.

Whether you’re staying 3 days in London or 4 days in London , the Buckingham State Rooms is one of the attractions you must include in your itinerary, and visiting the nearby St. James’ Park, Green Park, and Hyde Park, 3 of the 8 Royal Parks of London should be the next thing you visit.

Buckingham Palace is situated in the West End, so check out my West End Walk for more ideas on what to do next.

Buckingham Palace is what a palace should look like when you look at its interior. When I touched the staircase, I felt lucky to be touching something that’s from the palace ground. We couldn’t touch anything that you see there though, but it’s a great chance to see British history.

The tour was more about Queen Victoria and Prince Albert more than anyone from the royal family. I learned Queen Victoria had 9 children and 42 grandchildren, and she built rooms after rooms for their nurseries. Considering how big Buckingham Palace is, most of the rooms are quite small, can’t imagine where the grandchildren would run around in.

The rooms she used for meetings and parties were also too small for her guests. She had so many guests to invite for meetings and events that they would have been packed like sardines in one room. Some of the rooms here were big enough for three master bedrooms put together but still didn’t fit all her guests in one room.

She also held Garden Parties in the palace gardens, which was passed down from one generation to another within the family, even up to this present day.

Would I visit again?

I wouldn’t visit Buckingham Palace again since it’s something that once you’ve seen it, go onto the next attraction but it’s a recommendation from me. £25 is quite expensive for worth a two-hour visit, but you’d learn a lot about the British royal family. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity not to be missed.

The State Rooms is a must-see if you love British history and Buckingham Palace is number one on my list. Your holiday wouldn’t be complete without visiting Buckingham Palace. I haven’t had the chance to visit the Royal Mews because of COVID, but once it’s safe to do so, I’ll write a review on it. You can also get a package with the Royal Mews tour if you shop around.

If you have any questions regarding the State Rooms visit, feel free to contact me on Facebook, and if you have social media, follow me on more of the London’s attractions.

Take care and be safe!!!

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Buckingham Palace Visit: State Rooms Tour

Posted on Published: 10/05/2023

Want to visit the inside of Buckingham Palace? This working royal palace, one of the homes of King Charles, is one of the most popular London attractions . However, most of the time, while you can see the changing of the guards and the exterior, you can’t go inside the castle.

But, for approximately ten weeks in the summer (and select times during the rest of the year), your Buckingham Palace visit can include a tour of the staterooms. If your travels take you to London, you can tour the interior of the castle during this time.

During our recent visit to London , we were fortunately there during one of the weeks that it was open. We really enjoyed our visit and were thrilled that we were there during one of the open weeks. Planning a Buckingham Palace visit? Here’s what you’ll need to know.

Disclosure: We paid our own way for this trip. This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.

Booking Tickets to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms

Tickets to tour the Buckingham Palace state rooms can be booked through the official website. You’ll definitely want to purchase these in advance because they are timed tickets.

When you order the tickets, you will choose the date and time that you want to visit. I knew that we’d want to sleep in a bit that morning, but would also want to maximize our day. So, I chose the 10:30 a.m. time on our first full day in London.

When I purchased the tickets, I was glad to see that there was a deal for families, which included 2 adults and 3 kids under 17. It’s was a better deal than purchasing individual tickets for a family of four.

In addition to the standard stateroom tickets, there’s also the Royal Day Out package. Those tickets include the Queen’s Gallery, the Royal Mews, and the State Rooms. Because we only had a limited amount of time, I opted for only the State Rooms tour.

The Buckingham Palace State Room Tour

Once we arrived at Buckingham Palace, we followed the signs to the State Rooms tour. It’s always crowded around the palace, and most people don’t have tickets to enter the palace. So, you do need to maneuver around a bit to get to where you want to be.

There was a line to enter the tour. We were told by the staff to enter the line around 10 minutes before our ticketed time. Once we got into the main area, we waited until they let our group in. After a security check, we were able to get the multimedia tour devices.

There are two options for the multimedia tour – the regular adult tour and the family tour. Although the family tour is recommended for children under the age of 12, my kids and I selected that one. It’s narrated by Alice the Footman and Rex the Corgi and is definitely great for kids.

As you walk through the staterooms, you’ll see signs indicating the number that you’ll need to press on the multimedia tour. The family tour is perfect for kids, because it explains everything that you’ll see, but does it in a fun way that children will enjoy. My kids were never bored listening to the tour and completely understood the narration.

Seeing the rooms was absolutely worth the money and time. It’s amazing to think of all of the historic events and amazing people that have been in those rooms.

At the end of the stateroom tour, we returned our multimedia devices and headed into the gardens. They are beautiful and so peaceful. It was surprising how quiet it was – it really didn’t feel like the center of a bustling capital city. They’d be a great spot for London family photos .

There are also restrooms and a cafe located in the gardens. It’s a bit of a walk to the exit, and we passed by an adorable little ice cream stand before reaching the street.

Tips for a Buckingham Palace Visit

If you are visiting during one of the weeks that the state rooms are open, I definitely recommend purchasing tickets. It’s such a unique experience. Here are my tips for visiting:

• Buy tickets in advance. Since you have to choose a time, you’ll be able to have a better chance of getting your choice if you purchase early.
• Use the restroom before entering the line. There’s one at the end of the tour, but you won’t have access to a restroom during the tour.
• Plan to spend at least 60 minutes touring. We were told that it would take about 2 hours, however, it didn’t take quite that long for us. You can spend more time if you choose to, however, since it’s pretty much self-guided.
• But, make sure you take your time, especially in the gardens. You don’t want to rush through the tour.
• You’ll need to check large bags and strollers, so keep that in mind.
• Arrive at the state rooms line about 10 minutes in advance.

To check opening dates and purchase tickets, visit the Royal Collection Trust website .

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Everything about tourist attractions

Buckingham Palace – State Rooms & Changing of the Guard Tour

Buckingham Palace is a world-famous tourist attraction located in London. 

This iconic building is the official residence of the British monarch and is a must-visit for anyone visiting the city. 

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about Buckingham Palace, including ticket prices, timings, what to expect, how to reach, and the best time to visit.

Top Buckingham Palace Tickets

# Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace Full-Day Tour # Buckingham Palace Tour with Royal Walking Tour

# Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Table of contents

What to expect, where to buy buckingham palace tickets, how the online ticket works, cost of tickets for buckingham palace tour, the buckingham palace: the state rooms entrance, buckingham palace and royal walking tour tickets, westminster and changing of the guard tour tickets, changing of the guard walking tour tickets, how to reach buckingham palace, buckingham palace timings, how long does buckingham palace take, best time to visit buckingham palace.

• Know before you go 

Start your day by exploring Windsor Castle, the world’s largest continuously occupied castle.

Learn about its 900+ years of royal history, and visit St. George’s Chapel. The state apartments are the highlights of the castle.

Stroll through the charming town and perhaps discover where William Shakespeare wrote “The Merry Wives of Windsor.”

Next, head to Buckingham Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings with a rich history. It is recognized as the monarch’s home for national and royal celebrations.

There is so much at the Palace visitors can see, but we have compiled some of the highlights for you to make your visit easy:

• The State Rooms
• The Throne Room
• The Ball Room
• The Picture Gallery
• The Grand Staircase
• Palace gardens
• Changing the Guard
• Treasures of the Palace

The State Rooms are open to the public during the summer months. They are a series of grand rooms that are used for state occasions.

The Rooms are decorated with beautiful artworks and provide a glimpse into the lives of the British royal family. 

The Palace’s stunning gardens are also open to the public during summer, allowing visitors to explore the beautiful landscapes and sculptures.

Back to Top

Tickets for Buckingham Palace can be purchased online.

We recommend to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak summer months, as the palace can get busy.

Also, you get great discounts on online tickets. 

Booking online also helps avoid last-minute disappointment and delays.

On the ticket booking page , select the number of tickets, preferred tour date and buy the tickets.

Immediately after purchase, your tickets get emailed to you. 

You don’t need to take any printouts. 

You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you visit the attraction.

Visitors should ensure they have a valid ID and the credit card used to purchase the ticket with them when visiting the palace.

The cost of tickets for the Buckingham Palace tour depends on the tour option you select. 

Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace Full-Day Tour tickets cost £127 for visitors between 17 and 59 years.

Children between three and 16 get a discount of £10 and pay only £117 for their entry to both attractions.

Seniors above 60 get a discount a discount of £3 and pay £124 for their entry.

Buckingham Palace Tour with Royal Walking Tour tickets cost £69 for every visitor.

Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour tickets cost £18 for visitors above 18 years.

Youth between 13 and 17 get a discount of £8 and pay only £10 for their admission, while kids between five and 12 get a discount of massive £11 and pay only £7 for their entry.

Infants up to 4 years can get in for free.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour tickets are priced at £18 for adults aged 18 years and above.  Children in the age group of 5 to 17 years get a discount of £4 and pay only £15 for entry. Infants up to four years can get in for free.

State Rooms are open to public during summer from 11 July to 29 September 2024, and they are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The Buckingham Palace ticket offer access to the State Rooms, where official ceremonies and state occasions occur. 

Visitors can explore some of the palace’s most grandiose rooms, such as the Throne Room, Music Room, and White Drawing Room, and learn about the palace’s role in British life and the history of the monarchy.

The tour also features a multimedia guide to the palace’s collections, including masterpieces by well-known artists like Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto, as well as sculptures by Canova. 

Guests can also enjoy exquisite examples of Sèvres porcelain and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world. 

During the tour, visitors will also gain insight into the preparations for official visits to Buckingham Palace. 

Finally, guests can visit the popular Garden Café to relax and enjoy views of the famous lawn.

This 2.5-hour tour begins at the Duke of York Column, where you’ll meet your guide. 

You’ll embark on a royal walking tour before heading to Buckingham Palace, where you’ll get to see the opulent State Rooms, including the Throne Room, Music Room, and White Drawing Room. 

Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the monarchy and the palace’s role in British life. 

Note that photography is not permitted inside the palace but is allowed in the gardens. 

Ticket Price : £69

The Westminster and Changing of the Guard Tour is a guided walking tour that takes you through some of London’s most famous and historical landmarks. 

You’ll explore Royal London, witness parades by the King’s Guards, and visit iconic buildings such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament. 

The tour is led by an expert guide who has in-depth knowledge of London’s political, royal, and cultural history. 

Along the way, you’ll learn about the Kings, Queens, rogues, and villains who shaped this wonderful city. 

The tour is suitable for all ages and includes two-and-a-quarter-hour experiences. 

However, it’s not recommended for people with heart problems. 

The Changing of the Guard ceremony can be canceled without notice due to the discretion of the British Army or bad weather.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (18+ years): £18 Youth Ticket (13 to 17 years): £10 Child Ticket (5 to 12 years): £7 Infant Ticket (up to 4 years): Free

The Changing of the Guard Walking Tour takes you on a journey through British history and tradition with a knowledgeable local guide. 

Highlights include experiencing the Changing of the Guard ceremony and learning about the significance of every color, button, mascot, symbol, and movement. 

You’ll also get the opportunity to follow the guards’ journey to Buckingham Palace on foot and take some amazing snapshots. 

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. 

Adult Ticket (18+ years): £20 Child Ticket (5 to 17 years): £17 Infant Ticket (up to 4 years): Free

Save time & money! Buy London Pass and visit over 80+ attractions like ZSL London Zoo and London Bridge. Pick from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 10-day passes and buckle up for a 1-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour. 

Buckingham Palace is in the city of Westminster.

Address: London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom. Get Directions

You can use public transport or a car to reach the palace at your convenience. 

You can take the train to either London Victoria or London Charing Cross stations.

For more information on times and fares, visit the National Rail Enquiries website .

By Tube  

The palace is accessible from several underground stations, including Victoria , Green Park , St. James’s Park , and Hyde Park Corner . 

For more information, visit the Transport for London website .

By coach or bus

Bus numbers 11, 211, C1, and C10 all stop on Buckingham Palace Road. 

If you’re arriving by coach, Victoria Coach Station is just a 10-minute walk from the palace. 

If you’re driving to Buckingham Palace, the palace’s official website recommends using the following address for GPS directions: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA . 

Keep in mind that there is no parking available at the palace, so you will need to park at a nearby car park or on the street. 

For more information on parking near Buckingham Palace, visit Westminster City Council’s website .

Buckingham Palace is open to the public during the summer, from mid-July to the end of September. 

From 14 July to 31 August, Buckingham Palace runs from 9.30 am to 7.30 pm with the last admission at 5.15 pm. 

From 1 to 24 September, the palace is open for tours from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm with the last entry at 4.15 pm. 

The State Rooms are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 

The Palace operates a timed admission system for all guided tours, so pre-booking tickets is essential. 

During the summer, the Garden Cafe is open at the end of the Palace visitor route. 

The length of time to tour Buckingham Palace depends on the type of visit. 

A visit to the State Rooms, which are the most popular attraction, can take around 2 to 2.5 hours. 

The duration of other tours, such as Changing of the Guard Walking Tour, is shorter, ranging from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

The best time to visit Buckingham Palace is during the summer months when the State Rooms are open to the public. 

However, as this is the peak season, it can be crowded and busy, so it is advisable to book tickets in advance and arrive early. 

Also, we highly recommend you start your tour early morning when the palace opens around 9 am to avoid crowds.

The exclusive guided tours during winter and spring are also a great time to visit for a more intimate and less crowded experience.

Know before you go 

– It is important to note that visitors are required to pass through airport-style security checks upon arrival, so it is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time of your guided tour. 

– All tours involve some walking, so wearing comfortable shoes is advised. 

– Wheelchairs are not permitted in the State Rooms, but baby-care facilities are available at the start and end of guided tours. 

– On most of the tours, baby strollers are not allowed. 

– It is prohibited to take photographs within the State Rooms, and visitors are not allowed to eat or drink inside the Palace building, except for bottled water. 

– Visitors are advised to check the official Buckingham Palace website for the latest information on opening times and ticket prices.

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Datta Sai is a free-spirited wanderer who finds solace in the serene hush of the mountains and is invigorated by the boundless expanse of the oceans. An adventurer at heart, he thrives on the thrill of exploring untouched paths and the profound wisdom each journey imparts. His favorite cities are Cape Town, Vancouver, and Nice.

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Visiting buckingham palace in london – how to plan it and what to expect.

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If you are heading to London for the first time, chances are that seeing Buckingham Palace is on your itinerary. After all, the Royal residence is one of the top attractions and one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. Most people head to the Palace to see the exterior and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, but not many realize, that you can actually step inside of the Palace as well. The only thing is, you have to be there at the right time, as visiting Buckingham Palace is only possible when the Queen leaves for her summer vacation.

Buckingham Palace became the Royal residence in 1837, when Queen Victoria moved in and it has been home of the British Family ever since. The Palace has also served as administrative headquarters of the monarch and it’s one of few working Palaces left in the world. In 1993 Queen Elizabeth decided to open up the Palace to visitors, as a way to earn extra funds for the Windsor Castle, that was in desperate need of repairs. The opportunity to take a glimpse into the Royal life became an instant hit, with thousands of people visiting Buckingham Palace each year.

Whether you are a fan of the Royal family or not, I do recommend visiting Buckingham Palace as part of your trip to London. It’s not everyday, that you get to step inside of one of the most iconic places in the country. This guide includes all the information you need to plan you visit and get the most out of it.

Table of Contents

When can you visit Buckingham Palace?

If visiting Buckingham Palace is something you’d like to put on your London itinerary, you do have to plan your visit at a right time of the year. While you can see the Palace from the outside year round, the inside is open to visitors for 10 weeks only. And that is, when King Charles leaves to spend his summer vacation in Scotland.

In 2024, the Buckingham Palace will be open for tours from July 11 – September 29. In July and August the opening hours are from 9.30 am – 7.30 pm ( with the last admission at 5.15 pm ) and in September from 9.30 am – 6.30 pm ( last admission at 4.15 pm ). The State Rooms will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan your trip accordingly!

Buckingham Palace tickets

Once you have your travel plans in order and you plan on visiting Buckingham Palace, make sure to book your tickets way in advance. Since the access to the Palace is limited to 10 weeks, and those weeks happen to be during the busy summer season, tickets do sell out quickly.

There are a few different tickets to choose from, but touring the State Rooms is why most people visit the Palace. These tickets have a timed entry, so if you have a preferred time slot, I recommend booking it weeks in advance. No matter which ticket you choose, be sure to print out the voucher to exchange it for a ticket the day of your visit. The State Rooms voucher can be exchanged at the Buckingham Palace Ticket Office. If you book either The Royal Mews or A Royal Day Out, those vouchers can be exchanged at The Royal Mews Ticket Office.

Even tough tickets have a timed entry, once you are in, there’s no limit on how long you can stay. Here are all the options of tickets, depending on what interests you and how long you want to spend at Buckingham Palace.

• The State Rooms – this ticket allows you to visit the 19 State Rooms on a self guided tour, that includes the audio guide. Book your State Rooms tickets here.
• The Royal Mews – this ticket allows you to visit the stables. The Royal Mews is actually open to visitors from May to October, so even if you are in London, when the Palace itself is closed to visitors, you can still visit the Royal Mews. The opening hours are 11 am – 5 pm ( with the last admission at 4 pm ) every day except Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Book your Royal Mews ticket here.
• The Queen’s Gallery – if you are an art lover, you will probably enjoy visiting the Queens Gallery. As avid art collectors, the Queen and her family, accumulated an impressive collection. Book your Queen’s Gallery tickets here.
• The Royal Day Out – this ticket includes the State Rooms, The Queen’s Gallery and the Royal Mews. Your visit will start with a timed entry to The Queen’s Gallery, followed by a visit to the Royal Mews. The State Rooms visit is also timed, and starts automatically 2 hours and 15 minutes after the Royal Day Out started. Book your Royal Day Out tickets here.

Which ticket you choose, will depend on your interests. Obviously, if you want to have the full experience, the Royal Day Out is your best choice. If you only want to see the State Rooms, which for many is the highlight, you can book that ticket separately. However, I do recommend adding The Royal Mews to your visit. Since I personally had no interest in the Queens Gallery, I booked The State Rooms and the Royal Mews tickets separately.

PRO TIP 1: If you’d like to see the front of Buckingham Palace without the massive crowds, book an earlier ticket. This way when you get to there to pick it up, there won’t be many people at the front gate.

PRO TIP 2 : If you would like to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, book the State Room ticket at 12 pm or later.

Visiting Buckingham Palace in the Summer 2024

In the summer of 2024, the Buckingham Palace will be open to visitors from July 11 through September 29. You have a choice of visiting The State Rooms only, The Royal Mews only or book A Royal Day Out, which also includes a visit to the Queens Gallery and the Royal Mews. Just like before, all the tickets have a timed entry.

• The State Rooms – the highlight of the visit to Buckingham Palace are the State Rooms, which will be open every day, but Tuesdays and Wednesdays! You can book your State Rooms ticket here.
• The Royal Mews – this part of the Palace opens to visitors in May, which is several weeks before the State Rooms open. Book your Royal Mews ticket here.
• A Royal Day Out – if you are interested in seeing the Queens Gallery and Royal Mews in addition to the State Rooms, you definitely want to book A Royal Day Out ticket. It’s the best value and grants you access to all three venues. You can book your Royal Day Out ticket here.

Visiting Buckingham Palace – things to know

Buckingham Palace entrance – if you are facing the Palace, the entrance to the State Rooms is on the left hand side of it. That’s where you also pick up your prebooked tickets.

Security – before you can begin the tour, you will have to go through an airport style security, so make sure to arrive a few minutes earlier. This happens in the Palace, as well before entering the Royal Mews.

Free audio guide is included – your ticket includes a free audio guide, that comes in multiple languages ( English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese )

How long does it take? – this will depend on what kind of ticket you purchase. If you want to see the State Rooms only, plan 2 hours for that. This will give you enough time to walk through the rooms at a nice pace, without rushing through them. If you plan on visiting the Royal Mews as well, add another 45 minutes. For the full experience, which is the Royal Day Out, set aside 4 hours.

Photography is not allowed inside of the Palace – which is always a bummer when you visit such an iconic place as Buckingham Palace. Taking photos is not allowed inside of the Palace, but photography is allowed in the Palace Gardens and the Mews.

Visiting Buckingham Palace

The state rooms.

As you can probably figure out by looking at it, Buckingham Palace is huge. There are 775 rooms total, but visitors only get access to 19 of them. These are the State Rooms, located in the west wing of the Palace, that are used for public events, official ceremonies and banquets. The rest of the rooms, including the Queen’s and staff’s private rooms and offices are off limits. Even though taking a peak into the Queen’s bedroom will not happen, visiting Buckingham Palace is still an amazing experience.

As I already mentioned above, you tour the State Rooms with the help of an audio guide. This is a self guided tour, but you do follow a designated route. This means, that you can take your time visiting particular rooms, but there is no way to go back and revisit rooms you’ve previously walked through.

The tour starts at the Grand Entrance, while Prince Charles himself greets you on the audio guide. Before you start making your way through the State Rooms, you end up at the bottom of one of the most stunning parts of the Palace, and that is the Grand Staircase. It is truly spectacular, and as you make your way up, you can just imagine all the people who’ve walked the same stairs. It’s quite a surreal feeling.

Once you get upstairs, you start making your way through the State Rooms. These are the rooms, that are used during official ceremonies and when the Queen receives guests, so you’ll most likely recognize at least some of them from news coverage. The White Drawing Room, State Dining Room, Music Room and the spectacular Ball Room are just the few of the ones you get to see. The most recognizable of them all and one of the favorites is always the the Throne Room. It features the thrones used in the 1953 coronation ceremony of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. But you will most likely recognize it as the setting of the official wedding photos.

Buckingham Palace Summer Exhibition

Part of the State Room visit is a special Exhibition put on by the Palace and every year it has a different theme. The theme of the Summer 2024 Exhibition is yet to be announced.

Buckingham Palace Gardens

Once you’ve seen the last of the State Rooms, the tour brings you out to the back of the Palace and you enter the Palace Gardens. Occupying the 39 acres, the beautiful garden is home to 350 species of flowers and the habitat for 30 species of birds. Some of the garden’s best features are the 19th century lake and the Queen’s Rose garden. The Palace Garden is also where the Queen holds her annual summer garden parties. When you take the path towards the exit, you’ll get a glimpse of it, but that’s just a tiny fraction of the garden. The rest of it can only be seen on a special tour.

The Royal Mews

The Royal Mews is a working stable and where the historic carriages and coaches are kept. During your visit, you can get a close look at the carriages, that are used by the Royal family for coronations, weddings and special occasions.

The most impressive is without a doubt the Gold State Coach, that is on display at the Carriage House. The stunning, almost over the top coach weighs 4 tons and it takes 8 horses to pull it. The Gold State Coach has been used for every coronation since 1821, including that of Queen Elizabeth’s in 1953. Other than that, it doesn’t get much use and its last outing was in 2002 for the Queen’s Golden Jubilee celebrations .

In 2024, The Royal Mews will be open to public from March 1 – November 3, which means it opens earlier than the Palace itself. So if you are in London before the State Rooms open, it gives you a great opportunity to get a glimpse into the Royal life, even with the Palace itself still closed to visitors. Just like the State Rooms, The Royal Mews is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

One of the London attractions that always draws crowds is the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This is the Buckingham Palace experience, that you can enjoy year round and for free. It takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays and daily in the summer. The ceremony starts at 11 am and lasts about 45 minutes. The schedule is weather permitting and subject to change so make sure to check this website for any changes before you visit.

If you want make Changing of the Guard a part of your Buckingham Palace experience, plan accordingly. The ceremony starts at 11 am sharp, but people start gathering at the gate quite early. If you hope to get a good spot, showing up around 10 am is a good idea. And of course, you need to make sure your State Room tickets are booked for 12 pm or later.

How to get to Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is located in Westminster and you can easily get there from wherever you’re staying via the London tube. The three Underground stations closest to the Palace are:

• Victoria (Victoria line)
• Green Park (Victoria and Piccadilly line)
• Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly line).

No matter which one you choose, you will have about a 10 minute walk from the station to the Palace.

PRO TIP: Download the free Citymapper app before your trip to London! It’s the best public transport app out there, that helps you find the best way to get places.

• How to visit Highclere Castle – the real Downton Abbey

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9 thoughts on “ Visiting Buckingham Palace in London – how to plan it and what to expect! ”

Oooh, I was lucky enough to get tickets to Buckingham Palace in late August one year and had such an awesome time. It’s just so beautiful, you’re right, it’s one of those things that you have to experience one in you’re life if you’re in London.

I wish I found your blog post before I went to Buckingham Palace the first time! I had no idea you could go inside now and again – what a fantastic experience that would be – much better than just standing at the gate as we did! We’ll be in London again though, saving your tips so we can do it better this time. It’s so beautiful there, certainly worth another visit I reckon. Thanks for sharing.

Oh yeah, it’s definitely a much better experience, than looking at the Palace through the gate. The State Rooms are stunning, the only bummer is that you can’t take pictures. However, that is not unusual in places like this.

Such a useful resource, thanks for sharing! Can you believe I’ve been living in London for 8 years and still haven’t been to Buckingham Palace?? I’ll have to go one day!

I think that’s always the case when you live somewhere. I still haven’t done a lot of touristy things in Boston, and I’ve lived here for years:)

I did this before I moved here, beautiful inside!

So wish I would have done some of this stuff when I was there! I just chilled by the fountain! 🙂 Hopefully I’ll get back there one day and check out the horse stables for sure!

Make sure to visit the stable, even if you visit when the State Rooms are not open.

This is so cool! I was here a couple years ago but only for the changing of the guards. This makes me want to go back! 😁

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A Tour of Buckingham Palace State Rooms

Buckingham Palace is the most recognized Palace around the world and it’s the home of the Queen of United Kingdom. Every year in the month of July to September, Queen is outside London for spending her vacation for 10 weeks. During this time the Palace opens its state rooms for the general public, and I highly recommend visiting during this time if you’re in London. It’s a once in a lifetime experience.

Buckingham Palace actually started out as Buckingham House; a large townhouse owned by the Duke of Buckingham. King George lll bought the house for his wife as a private residence and became known as The Queen’s House. When George IV became king, he began turning the house into a palace. He appointed the architect John Nash, who was later dismissed by parliament for spending too much and work stopped till his death. Later King William IV hired the architect Edward Blore to finish the work. Buckingham Palace became the principal royal residence in 1837.

We visited the state room on the first day of opening and it was very crowded. In summer the change of guard happens every day outside the Buckingham Palace and people start gathering there are at least two hours before. When we reach there 30 minutes before our time slot, there was no space left to see anything inside the palace so we proceed towards the ticket counter. We already have the ticket so we stand in the queue for the entrance. Do remember before queuing that there are no public toilets at the start of the tour and inside the palace. The only public toilets available is at the end of the tour.

Even we reach before the time we have to spend 45 minutes in the line before we get in. At the entrance palace security staff will scan and check your belongings. Just like Airlines many things are banned to carry inside the palace like sharp objects and tools. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the states room, but if you have camera, you can carry it inside your bag. Once security check is done, you are inside the palace and proceed with the States room tour at your own pace.

This is a self-guided tour with audio guide provided at the entrance. The tour of the State Rooms begins at the Grand Entrance. This entrance is reserved for foreign ambassadors and diplomats. The Buckingham Palace building is quadrangle with Courtyard in the middle where ceremonies performed on special occasions. On a state visit, the band of the Household Division also plays here to welcome the visiting Head of State and their entourage.

When I was in the lobby of states room, I get a glimpse of guard changing from the narrow door space. After watching it for five minute I realize I have better things to see inside.

After the grand entrance there was a grand staircase which in golden decor looks inviting. The whole interior of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace is quite breathtaking. You will see loads and loads of gold, from gold doors, gold chairs, gold tables, gold cutlery and gold even on the ceiling. Many are real gold and the others like ceiling are painted in golden color with proper light adjustment for glittering, I guess.

We have seen the Grand Entrance and Marble Hall, the Grand Staircase, Green Drawing Room, Guard Chamber, Music Room, The Throne Room, The Picture Gallery, The Ballroom, State Dining Room, White Drawing Room with a secret doorway for the Queen, the Silk Tapestry Room and many other rooms. As you walk around you will find out lots of interesting facts about the Royal Family, the palace and about the rooms.

We were completely awe struck by the opulent rooms with enormous chandeliers, furniture, wall and ceiling decor, candelabra and paintings. You get to see things you won’t be able to see elsewhere. Her Majesty the Queen is a representative head of state; therefore, her State Rooms are full with riches.

It takes around 2 hours for us visit the states room with a slow pace. At the end of the tour there is café and a souvenir shop.

You can combine this tour with the Royal Mews and Queens gallery. it’s only a few blocks from the Palace and you can start or end your day tour there depending on the time slot you have for the states room. Here you’ll see the fancy cars, exquisite carriages and best of all, many of the Queen’s horses in their stables.

Inside Queens gallery you can find exhibitions from the Royal Collection, featuring old master paintings, rare furniture, decorative arts and images from the vast photograph collection. Royal Mews and Queens gallery both are self-guided audio tour where photography is allowed.

There are few ticket options available to choose from. If you want to only visit the states room only ticket cost £26.50 for adult. You can also buy a combination ticket Royal Day Out cost £49.00 for adult. Royal Day Out ticket including admission to the State Rooms, the Royal Mews and The Queen’s Gallery. There are options for family and group tickets. Children below 5 enter for free.

Opening times

The state room is open for public every year at the end of July to September from 09:30 to 17:15. Exact date change every year and should be confirmed from Royal collection trust website .

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Buckingham Palace Tours

This post covers how to take a tour of these areas of Buckingham Palace. It describes what you will see, and makes suggestions as to how to make the most of your visit to this most famous of London attractions.

Note that if you're interested in learning more about the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, read our post Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace .

• Plan Your Visit
• Queen's Gallery
• State Rooms
• Combined Pass

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO BUCKINGHAM PALACE

Buckingham Palace is both the formal residence of the British monarch and his administrative headquarters.

Part of the complex that makes up the palace includes the Buckingham Palace State Rooms, which are used for ceremonial purposes.

These include the Throne Room, the Picture Gallery, the Ballroom, the Music Room, and the White Drawing Room.

Also part of the complex is the Queen's Gallery which exhibits works from the Royal Collection and the Royal Mews which holds the Royal Family's horses and carriages.

This is one of the most historic sites in all of London, and there’s plenty to see and do while you’re visiting.

Due to its popularity, we recommend planning your trip well in advance.

In this section, we will discuss some of the best times to visit, how to get a ticket, where you’ll find the landmark, security information, and other important details you will need to know before taking a tour.

How to Get To Buckingham Palace

Visitors can reach Buckingham Palace from several Underground stations, bus routes, and other means.

The closest Underground stations are Green Park, Hyde Park Corner, and Victoria. Bus numbers 11, 221, C1 and C10 make stops on Buckingham Palace Road.

Click here to get directions for your choice of transportation from anywhere in London.

If you need help figuring out which tube to take, make sure to read our posts covering the London Underground and which tube pass you should buy .

If you are considering purchasing a hop-on-hop-off ticket while in London, then keep in mind that all companies offer a stop at the palace.

Buckingham Palace is located in the City of Westminster which is a separate jurisdictional area from the City of London located in the center of London.

The Palace has its own royal gardens on the west side of the building.

Two large and lovely parks, St. James Park on the east and Green Park on the north side are both worth taking a stroll in.

What You'll Find at Buckingham Palace

There are a few areas that are open to the general public.

The Queen’s Gallery is an incredible collection of artwork and antiques from throughout the history of England.

Admission includes a free audio tour to help visitors explore the area.

Their exhibits change from time to time, giving guests the opportunity to see new and interesting things with each visit.

Although the Royal Mews are closed during the winter, you can come and see them pretty much at any other time of the year.

This location handles all of the road travel arrangements for the Royal Family and this is where you will find the carriages used for special occasions.

During the summer months, you can also visit the State Rooms in Buckingham Palace.

These are public rooms that are used to entertain important guests from around the world.

Although photography is not allowed, they do provide an audio tour to make your experience much more enjoyable.

Weather permitting, visitors can also check out the Changing of the Guards , but there is so much to see nearby the palace. 

The Changing of the Guards takes place daily in the summer, but only every other day during the rest of the year.

NOTE:  From late July through September there is a  combination ticket that includes the Queen's Gallery, the Royal Mews, and the State Rooms. 

How Long Does It Take to Visit Buckingham Palace

You can expect to spend around 1 ½ - 2 hours seeing everything on display at the gallery.

Expect to spend at least 60 minutes exploring the area and seeing all of the displays at the Royal Mews.

A visit to the palace and State Rooms will take about 2 - 2 ½ hours to see.

If you want to see the changing of the guards, plan on spending anywhere from 60-90 minutes waiting and watching the ceremony.

Timed Tickets to Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace tickets are timed.

Although the duration of your stay is not limited, you will need to purchase tickets for a specific time of day.

One-Year Pass to Buckingham Palace

Enjoy free re-admission for a year by asking a member of the staff to validate your ticket(s).

This allows re-entry for up to a year, so if you need to break up your visit at separate times, you can do so.

Gift Shops and Food at Buckingham Palace

There are gift shops at Buckingham Palace that sell souvenirs and bottled water.

You will also find garden café in the palace, and restaurants near the palace if you don’t feel like eating during your visit.

Buckingham Palace For Kids and Families.

Family activity bags are available free of charge, so be sure to ask for one when picking up your tickets.

In the State Rooms, there is a drawing and coloring room.

Toilets and baby-care facilities are available at the start and end of tours.

Baby carriers are available upon request.

Read our tips on visiting London with kids .

Wear Comfortable Shoes to Buckingham Palace

You will be doing a lot of walking while at Buckingham Palace. As such, we highly recommend wearing comfortable shoes during your visit.

This is also a good idea if you plan to take one of our walking tours in the area. Read our tour options below for more information. 

Buckingham Palace Security Information

The palace and all of its attractions have very strict security checkpoints.

The following items are not allowed on the premises, but they can be checked into a cloakroom and picked up later.

• Knives w/ blades under 3”
• Long Umbrellas

You should avoid bringing any of the following items as they will not be allowed and cannot be checked into the cloakroom.

• Roller skates
• Skateboards
• Pets/Animals
• Knives w/ blades over 3”
• Knives w/ lockable blades
• Butterfly Knives
• Flick Knives
• Pepper Spray

Thankfully, visitors are allowed to bring a few practical items with them:

• Smartphones
• Service Animals
• Hearing Aids

In addition to these items, food and drink are provided at certain attractions such as the Garden Cafe. Baby carriers/hip-carriers are available upon request.

Although personal photos are allowed in locations such as the Garden, you are prohibited from taking any kind of pictures in the State Rooms. 

For more security details, make sure to visit the respective sections for each attracti

THE QUEEN'S GALLERY

The Queen’s Gallery exhibits selected pieces of art from the Royal Collection. The collection is quite extensive.

It comprises over one million objects, including 7,000 paintings, 30,000 watercolors and drawings, and about 500,000 prints, as well as photographs, tapestries, furniture, ceramics, books, sculptures, and last but not least the Crown Jewels. 

Queen's Gallery Opening Times

The gallery is open year round.

• Open: Thursday - Monday from 9:30 am - 17:30 (5:30 pm).
• Closed: Tuesday and Wednesday, and as it's part of a working royal palace, there may be other closures that happen at short notice.

Queen's Gallery Admission Tickets

• £11/Youth (18-24)
• £9/Children | Under 5 FREE
• More information or to book a ticket . 

NOTE: Admission to the gallery is included free with the  London Pass .

NOTE: There is also a Royal Day Out combination ticket that includes the Queen's Gallery, the Royal Mews, and the State Rooms.

Queen's Gallery Timed Tickets

When you book your tickets, you must select a time that you will begin your tour.  

Entry intervals are every 15 minutes throughout the day. You can spend as much time in the Gallery as you want.

Set aside additional time to pass through the airport-style security check. Large bags and backpacks must be checked in the cloakroom.

Read our security section for more information on prohibited items.

The gift shop has exclusive items inspired by works of art in the Royal Collection. The shop has housewares, china, clothing, jewelry, children’s toys, books, and postcards.

Proceeds of all purchases go to the care and upkeep of the Royal Collection. 

Queen's Gallery Highlights

The gallery has rotating exhibits centered on themes or particular artists. To see what the current exhibits are, check their website .

An audio guide is included in the cost of your ticket.

The commentary is excellent and you also have the option to listen to music selected for its suitability to the setting.

If you are an art aficionado, check out the official The Royal Collection podcast , which features news of current and forthcoming exhibitions and interviews.

Best Time to Visit Queen's Gallery

If you want to avoid crowds, consider making your trip sometime during the middle of the week.

These days are far less busy and you’ll have a much easier time seeing the various exhibits on display.

Additionally, you’ll also want to consider arriving either early in the day or later in the afternoon.

The crowds begin to dissipate at about 4 pm, and you should have more than enough time to explore the gallery if you arrive at least 2 hours before closing.

Queen's Gallery Reviews

The majority of reviews on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide are positive and it is rated 4 out of 5 stars. Read the reviews .

Some say, however, that the Gallery’s limited size and small number of items on display at any given time (about 450) just aren’t enough.

Other Galleries to Visit in London

If you have limited time in London or are on a budget, you may also want to consider a visit to the free National Gallery which houses a very large collection.

It's one of the dozens of free museums in London .

Read our post on Itineraries for Museum Lovers for more great galleries and exhibitions in London.

THE ROYAL MEWS

The Royal Mews is a collection of working stables which house the Royal Family’s horses, carriages, and other vehicles.

On display in the Mews is an array of historic coaches and carriages, including some that are still used by the Royal Family on special occasions to this day.

If you're interested in learning more about how the Royal Family gets around, this attraction is almost like a living museum filled with all the methods of transportation they use.

Tickets to this attraction are sold separately from the Queen's Gallery, the State Rooms, and Buckingham Palace.

For more details about what you can expect to see and how to get admission, please read our post covering the Royal Mews .

THE STATE ROOMS

There are nineteen State Rooms in all. Among them are the stunning White Drawing Room, the Music Room, the Picture Gallery, and the world-famous Throne Room, where all official wedding and coronation photos are taken.

There are dozens of fine art and objects on display including paintings by Van Dyck, Canaletto, Rubens, and Rembrandt.

There are also sculptures,  period furniture, rare porcelain and rotating exhibits.

State Rooms Opening Times

Every July to September, the Monarch goes on holiday which means that the doors to the public!

In 2024, the rooms are open from the 11th of July through the 29th of September.

• Open: Thursday - Monday | 10:00 am - 17:00 (5 pm)
• Closed: Tuesday and Wednesday

State Rooms Admission Tickets

Entry is “timed” meaning you must select a time. The start time frequency is every 15 minutes.

• £19.50/Youth (18-24)
• £16.50/Children | Under 5 FREE
• Purchase your ticket here .

The best time to take this tour is early in the day to avoid crowds in later hours.

State Rooms Tour

The Royal Day Out combination ticket includes an excellent 1-hour multimedia guide that provides commentary on each of the 19 State Rooms.

Though the audio tour is only one hour, you can move at your own pace.

You will find guides in each room who can answer questions and who may point out interesting features that are not mentioned on the audio tour, such as the King’s secret passageway/entrance behind a mirror.

You’ll also have the opportunity to stroll through the garden at Buckingham Palace at the end of your tour.

We recommend that you give yourself 2 - 2 ½ hours to make the most of this ticket.

State Rooms and Changing of the Guard Tour  

If you want a guided tour of the State Rooms, but you don’t want to miss the Changing of the Guards, this combination ticket may be your best option.

In addition to seeing the ceremony at 10:45 am, you will also receive a tour of 19 famous rooms inside Buckingham Palace.

This combined tour is only available from July - October, and it is an excellent opportunity to experience some of the most notable sights at this historic location.

Admission Tickets

• £66/Adults | £61/Children
• Availability: July - October
• Duration: 2 ½ hours

NOTE: if you want to see the Changing of the Guards  while avoiding the crowds at the State Rooms, consider doing so on a different day than your tour.

This is because the Changing of the Guards will take up your morning, thus you would have to take an afternoon State Room tour which is typically more crowded.

See our post on how to watch the  Changing of the Guards .

State Rooms and Garden Highlights Tour  

This combined ticket gives you the opportunity to take a tour of the largest private garden in London after taking a stroll through the State Rooms.

You will be taken through select sections of the garden by an expert guide.

The tour includes the 3-acre lake, the Rose Garden, the enormous Waterloo Vase, and the Palace tennis court.

You will be given  2 hours and 15 minutes  to explore the State Rooms before beginning your  1 hour and 15-minute  tour in the Garden.

Each tour includes a multimedia guide.

2024 Advanced Price:

• Adult £47.00
• Young Person (18-24) £30.20
• Child (5-17) £23.50
• Disabled £23.50
• Under 5 Free
• Information and tickets

2024 On-the-Day Price:

• Adult £50.00
• Young Person (18-24) £32.20
• Child (5-17) £25.00
• Disabled £25.00

ROYAL DAY OUT COMBINATION TICKET

This combination ticket provides entrance to the State Rooms, the Queen’s Gallery, and the Royal Mews.

It’s a great value if you want to make a full day out of your visit to Buckingham Palace.

Your Royal Day Out will last for approximately 4 - 4 ½ hours . When purchasing your ticket, the entry time you select will be for admission to the Queen’s Gallery first.

You will then be allocated an admission time for the State Rooms, which will be 2 ½ hours after you begin your visit at the Queen’s Gallery.

It makes sense to visit the Royal Mews right after, but make sure you finish both in time to walk over to the State Rooms at the time you have been assigned.

Royal Day Out Opening Times

This ticket can be used between 13th July and 29th September, 2024.

• Open: Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Closed: Tuesday, Wednesday

Royal Day Out Tickets

There are a few options when it comes to these combination tickets.

• Adult £61.20
• Young Person (18-24) £39.10
• Child (5-17) £30.60
• Disabled £30.60
• Adult £65.70
• Young Person (18-24) £41.80
• Child (5-17) £32.80
• Disabled £32.80

NOTE: families that book directly with the website can save up to £28.00

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

More than 50,000 people visit the palace each year making it one of the most visited landmarks in the United Kingdom and one of the most visited royal palaces in Europe.

In preparation for a visit, a number of questions are asked. We've covered some of the most frequently asked questions below.

Who Was the First Soverign to Live in Buckingham Palace?

King George IV hired architect John Nash to enlarge what was originally called Buckingham House into a larger space.

Before the extension was completed, George IV died. It was Queen Victoria, and her husband Prince Albert, who oversaw completion of the Palace. She was the first soverign to rule from Buckingham Palace.

How Much Time Do You Need to Visit Buckingham Palace ?

It takes around:

• 1.5-2 hours to see the Queen's Gallery
• 1 hour to see the Royal Mews
• 2-2.5 hours to see the State Rooms
• 60-90 minutes to see the Changing of the Guards (which includes a wait time)

Can Tourists Go Inside Buckingham Palace?

They sure can! Since 1993 the general public has been able to visit parts of the palace complex.

Can You Walk Around Buckingham Palace?

Yes, visitors can absolutely walk around parts of the palace: the Queen's Gallary, the State Rooms, the Royal Mews, and the Gardens.

When Can You Tour Buckingham Palace?

Guided tours are usually allowed from November - May on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Between July and September the State Rooms are open to the public. The dates and times change each year, and can be found here .

Can You Visit Buckingham Palace Without a Tour?

Visitors are not allowed to walk freely through the palace (or gardens) for security reasons. But they are allowed in certain areas, with timed tickets, and at least an audio tour.

Can You Visit Buckingham Palace for Free?

If you have  London Pass admission to the Queen's Gallery and the Royal Mews are free.

You can also see the Changing of the Guards for free.

For more information about discount tickets and passes, see immediately below.

DISCOUNT TICKETS AND PASSES

As you can see, tickets to see the inside of the Palace can be quite expensive. 

If you’re on a budget, there are ways you can save money and still enjoy the Palace by purchasing one of several tourist attraction discount passes that include palace tours. 

The following discount passes provide either a discount or free admission to the Royal Mews and Queen’s Gallery, in addition to covering ticket prices for some of the following activities and attractions:

• Kew Gardens
• Tower Bridge
• Windsor Castle
• Tower of London
• Kensington Palace
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• Westminster Abbey
• Hampton Court Palace

Check out our comparison post for even more details about London tourist passes .

FREE WALKING TOUR

If you are on a budget or don't have the time for one of the above tours, but still want a taste of Royal London, we offer a pay-what-you-like   Royal Walking tour which includes Buckingham Palace, The Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben.

Although you won’t be able to go inside the palace, you might catch the Changing of the Guards ! 

Prefer to explore on your own? Enjoy our free self-guided tour . We also offer a  self-guided GPS-enabled audio tour !

RELEVENT POSTS

• Things to Do in London . 
• Things to Do in July in London
• Things to Do in August in London
• Things to Do in September in London .

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Buckingham Palace State Rooms Tour

Buckingham Palace is known worldwide as the residence of The Queen. It is the focal point for national and royal celebrations and is also where the regular Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place. 

Every year, during the Queen's annual holiday to Balmoral, Scotland (from August to September), a few select dates in the winter and spring, the Palace opens its State Rooms to visitors. These rooms are the public spaces in the Palace where The Queen and members of the Royal Family host their guests on State, ceremonial, and official occasions. The rooms are laid out as they would be during State visits.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace Open for Public Tours

In 1993, following the fire at Windsor Castle, the Queen opened Buckingham Palace to public tours to help pay for the multi-million dollar repairs. I was fortunate enough to be in London during this time and was able to participate in one of the tours from August to September. I remember waiting in line for hours with hundreds of others, eagerly anticipating our first glimpse inside the historic palace.

The palace houses a total of 19 State Rooms, many of which have a specific purpose to this day. For instance, the Throne Room is used by the Queen for court ceremonies and official entertaining and also serves as the backdrop for the wedding photos of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The grandest of all the State Rooms is the White Drawing Room, which serves as a royal reception room for the Queen and members of the Royal Family to gather before official occasions.

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Queen Victoria's Throne, part of the special exhibition ‘Queen Victoria's Palace' at this year's Summer Opening of Buckingham Palace 20 July – 29 September 2019. For use only in connection to the exhibition, not to be archived or sold on. Image credit Royal Collection Trust/ © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2019.

Highlights of the State Room Tour

White Drawing Room

Blue Drawing Room

Green Drawing Room

Throne Room

Picture Gallery

Grand Staircase

Royal Garden

The State Dining Room at the special exhibition ‘Queen Victoria's Palace', part of a visit to the Summer Opening of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace. Credit: Royal Collection Trust / (c) Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2019.

Tourists are not permitted to take photos inside the staterooms during the Buckingham Palace tour. However, they are allowed to take pictures in the Palace Gardens at the end of the tour . One of the highlights of the tour is the backdrop picture of the Royal Family, which visitors can use to take a photo that appears as though they were there with the Royals (well, almost).

Photo with the Royals

I take my Choose Love shirts with me wherever I travel. This is outside of Buckingham Palace overlooking the Palace Garden.

Buckingham Palace State Room Tour Tips

Please remember the following information regarding your visit:

• Upon arrival, you will go through an airport-style security check. Please refrain from bringing large items, and store your personal items in a bin that you can retrieve at the end of the tour.
• Please allow 2-2½ hours for your visit and wear comfortable shoes as the end of the tour includes a half-mile walk through the Royal Garden to the exit.
• Your ticket includes an audio guide that provides details about the history of each room. It is recommended to prebook your ticket as there is a timed admission system operating in 15-minute time slots. This is the time you select when purchasing your ticket.
• Please arrive at the entry time printed on your ticket and not earlier.

Book your tickets for the Buckingham Palace State Room Tour HERE !

About Royal Collection Trust

Royal Collection Trust looks after the Royal Collection, one of the most important art collections in the world, and manages the public opening of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. These include Buckingham Palace, the Royal Mews, Clarence House, and The Queen's Gallery in London; Windsor Castle and Frogmore House in Windsor; the Palace of Holyroodhouse and The Queen's Gallery in Edinburgh.

Through their work, from exhibitions and learning programs to publications and retail products, they aim to ensure that the Royal Collection and Palaces are valued and enjoyed by everyone.

Royal Collection Trust is a registered charity and income generated through admissions and other commercial activity funds the care and conservation of the Royal Collection and the promotion of access to and enjoyment of the Collection through exhibitions, publications, loans, and educational programs.

Their work is undertaken without public funding of any kind.

Get Social with Royal Collection Trust!

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

We hope you enjoyed Simply Amazing Living’s “Buckingham Palace State Rooms Tour” post.

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9 Comments .

I love seeing palaces and castles. I never had the chance to get inside Buckingham when we used to live in London but my mom and dad did. My father, a defence attache then, and they came in to meet the Queen and Prince Charles.

My mom had such a fascinating story about it because she when the other “ladies” of the delegation rushed forward to meet Prince Charles, he noticed my mom was left at the back and so he said, “And the lady at the back?” HAHAHA. She never really liked him, but she felt like some kind of princess, she said.

I’ve been to London so often but never took a Buckingham Palace Tour – just saw it from the outside. Next time I’m going I’ll make sure to join one – it’s definitely something you should do to make your England-trip complete.

This is such a beautiful historical place to visit. Thank you for making me visiting this through your post.

How wonderful! I have always been fascinated with the Buckingham Palace and all its pomp and splendor. You were so fortunate to be able to go and tour its state rooms! Thanks for sharing the photos. BTW, love that shirt too!

Buckingham Palace is really an astounding travel spot around the world; so a tour sounds just perfect! It’s so amazing that the palace was actually opened to the public- actually that would inspire luxury and edgy living as I love it. The rooms are splendid!

We have done all the London tourist things…Buck palace is fab. Looks like you had a wonderful time too x

Buckingham Palace!!! thank you so much for touring us inside. Would definitely visit this place as it is in my bucket list. 🙂

Thanks for letting us know this worthy tour. When I finally reach London, I will never skip this place. Very opulent!

Wow! I had no idea that they open the State Rooms at the Buckingham Palace to visitors. I hope we get lucky to have the opportunity to visit and have an available date that can fit into our schedule. I am really excited to know this. Thank you for sharing.

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You are here: Things To Do > The State Rooms, Buckingham Palace

The State Rooms, Buckingham Palace

Type: historic house / palace.

Tel: 0303 123 7300

The State Rooms, Buckingham Palace  Buckingham Palace serves as the official London residence of His Majesty The King, and is one of the few remaining working royal palaces in the world today.  Each summer when the Palace is not being used in its official capacity, visitors can enjoy the 19 magnificent State Rooms that provide the setting for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining by members of the Royal Family. The rooms are furnished with many of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Van Dyck, sculpture by Canova, exquisite examples of Sèvres porcelain, and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world.  Visitors to the Summer Opening of Buckingham Palace will see the White Drawing Room, perhaps the most beautiful of all the State Rooms with its spectacular crystal chandelier, the Music Room, where guests are presented on the occasion of a State Visit, and the Throne Room, which was the setting for the formal photographs following the wedding of Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales.  Following a visit, the Palace's Garden Café offers the perfect location to enjoy a selection of light refreshments while taking in panoramic views of the lake across the lawn, before visiting the Garden Shop. Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2022

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Opening Times

* Please check website for openings https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace

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Tour the Grandeur of Buckingham Palace State Rooms

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Introduction

The Buckingham Palace State Rooms are the grandest and most lavishly decorated part of the official London residence of the British monarch. Situated in the heart of London, they are a remarkable example of royal opulence and grandeur.

The Buckingham Palace State Rooms have been the home of many generations of British monarchs since 1837. The palace was first built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703. In 1762, it was acquired by King George III, who commissioned the architect John Nash to remodel the building and create the state rooms.

Nash’s plan for the palace included two grand wings, which were completed in 1825. The State Rooms were then built to a grand scale and furnished in lavish style. The original furniture and decorations remain largely intact today.

The palace has seen many changes over the years, and the State Rooms have been refurbished several times to reflect changing tastes and the latest fashions. In the late 19th century, Queen Victoria commissioned a major refurbishment of the palace and its state rooms, which included the installation of electric lighting.

The State Rooms are a stunning collection of 19 magnificent rooms, which are used to receive and entertain guests on state occasions. The rooms are decorated in an eclectic mix of styles, ranging from the Baroque to the Neoclassical.

The centerpiece of the State Rooms is the Throne Room, which was designed to impress visitors with its grandeur. The room is adorned with a marble floor and walls lined with tapestries and portraits of monarchs.

The Grand Staircase is a magnificent double staircase that leads to the State Apartments. It is decorated with a magnificent chandelier, which was designed by Thomas Becket and installed in 1845.

The State Dining Room is the largest of the State Rooms and is used for state banquets. It is decorated with elaborate wall and ceiling paintings, and a magnificent chandelier hangs from the ceiling.

The Ballroom is the largest room in the palace and is used for receptions and banquets. It is decorated with a marble floor and walls lined with portraits of past monarchs. The room is also home to a large crystal chandelier and a beautiful gilded ceiling.

The Picture Gallery is a long room filled with paintings of monarchs and other important figures. The room is adorned with a gilded ceiling and the walls are lined with portraits.

Visiting the State Rooms

The Buckingham Palace State Rooms are open to the public for a limited period each year. Visitors can explore the rooms and admire the grandeur and opulence of the palace.

Visitors can also take part in a guided tour, which includes a visit to the Throne Room, Grand Staircase, State Dining Room, Ballroom and Picture Gallery. The tour also includes an audio guide, which provides an insight into the history and significance of the State Rooms.

The Buckingham Palace State Rooms are a remarkable example of royal opulence and grandeur. Visitors can explore the rooms and admire the grandeur and opulence of the palace. The State Rooms are open to the public for a limited period each year, and visitors can take part in a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the rooms.

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How long does it take to complete the tour of the...

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Buckingham Palace State Rooms Entry ticket Questions & Answers

How long does it take to complete the tour of the palace state rooms and exhibition?

It can be done in about 4 hours. If you really want to study the paintings and artefacts etc I would allow 6 hours plus. If you are also going to the Royal Mews then allow a good 5 hours for everything - that would give you a reasonable look without rushing.

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The ultimate royal travel guide to Britain, from Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle

T he British landscape is awash with royal properties, from stately palaces to historic castles. These include three of the monarch’s official royal residences; Buckingham Palace , Windsor Castle , and Edinburgh’s Palace of Holyroodhouse. 

But while these historic buildings may have the level of grandeur you might imagine when you picture the Royal family at home, in truth, royals are only ‘resident’ in these buildings on occasion. For some, they are even considered business premises – though they rather put the rest of our offices to shame. 

When it comes to days off from official business, members of the Royal family are more likely to be found in their private homes, such as the King and Queen’s Highgrove House in Gloucestershire, or the Prince and Princess of Wales’s family home of Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park. 

While the private homes are exactly that – private – there are plenty of places around Britain where you can walk in the footsteps of the Royal family and get a small glimpse into their lives. Here are some of the best. 

Buckingham Palace, London

Let’s start with the most famous of all royal residences: Buckingham Palace. Elizabeth II largely regarded it as her office, spending weekdays there attending to official business before retreating to Windsor at the weekends.

Now, of course, the palace – whose origins can be traced back to the reign of King James I in the early 17 th century, but which has been the London home of British monarchs since 1837 when Queen Victoria moved in – is the King’s official London residence.

Buckingham Palace is the setting for royal and national celebrations and commemorations; who can forget catching a glimpse of Royal family members from the famous balcony? It’s also where the monarch hosts dignitaries and official banquets – on September 18 2022, the King held a reception for world leaders at the palace on the eve of his mother’s funeral.

As it is a working palace, Buckingham Palace is only open to the public at set times. For 10 weeks each summer, its grand state rooms are opened up. During this time, visitors can see the crimson-and-gold Throne Room, the Royal Mews, and the enormous Ballroom, where all those extravagant state banquets are held. In addition, there are exclusive guided tours at select dates throughout the year.

Those without a ticket or travelling at the wrong time of year can still watch the spectacle of the Changing of the Guard, which takes place outside the palace several days a week at 10.45am (weather dependent but check the schedule ). 

The ceremony has its roots in the reign of King Henry VI and sees the New Guard of soldiers – wearing the customary bearskin hats – march to Buckingham Palace from St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks accompanied by music. They parade in front of the palace and relieve the ‘Old Guard’ (the soldiers on duty). 

If you are lucky and the King is in residence (the Royal Standard flag will be flying) then there will be an even higher number of sentries than normal taking part in the ceremony.

How to do it

Buckingham Palace (0303 123 7300) is open for 10 weeks each summer (July 14–September 24 2023). The Goring (read our review here ) has double rooms from £710 including breakfast.

Windsor Castle, Windsor

At the start of the Covid pandemic, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip retreated to this castle on the banks of the River Thames to shield with 22 staff members in what became known as ‘HMS Bubble’. After Prince Philip’s death in April 2021, the late Queen remained at Windsor; indeed, she never spent another night at Buckingham Palace.

The castle was originally built for William the Conqueror to defend London from western approaches, but it became a royal palace under King Henry I. Subsequent monarchs extended the palace with its most ambitious makeover undertaken by King Charles II who wanted to emulate the opulence of his cousin Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.

As well as seeing the rich interiors of the castle, visitors can pay their respects to the late Queen by visiting her final resting place within the King George VI Memorial Chapel inside St George’s Chapel.

In 2022, the Prince and Princess of Wales moved to nearby Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park with their three children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis – who attend school locally. It may well be that they will eventually move into the castle itself.

Windsor Castle (0303 123 7300) is open daily (summer). Castle Hotel Windsor (read our review here ) has double rooms from £132 including breakfast.

Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh

The King’s official residence in Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a rather grand building that sits at the opposite end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to the castle. The palace has links with many famous figures from Scottish history – including Bonnie Prince Charlie, who set up court here in 1745 – but the person most visitors want to hear about is Mary, Queen of Scots. Her bedroom can be reached via a winding staircase in the north-west tower of the palace, and is a delight to discover with its low doorway (despite Mary being around 6ft-tall), decorative oak ceiling and painted frieze.

The reigning monarch stays at the palace every year during Holyrood Week (or Royal Week) from late June to early July. During this time they take part in the symbolic Ceremony of the Keys in which the monarch is handed the keys to the city of Edinburgh by the Lord Provost amid much pomp and ceremony.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse (0303 123 7306) is open daily July-Sept; it’s closed Tue-Wed in all other months. Cheval Old Town Chambers (read our review here ) has double rooms from £190 including breakfast.

Highgrove House, Gloucestershire

When they are not on official duties, the King and Queen love nothing better than to return to their countryside home of Highgrove in the Cotswolds. As the house is a private home, you can’t peek behind its neoclassical façade, but tours of the exquisite gardens – which Charles has dedicated himself to creating since buying the property in 1980 – are lovely. 

An experienced guide will take you through the gardens, which are a real passion project of His Majesty. You will then be led to the Ante Room, where bespoke Highgrove products – including food and drink made from produce grown here – can be bought and artworks by the King himself admired. This is all followed by cream tea in the Orchard Room, making it an idyllic way to spend an afternoon.

Highgrove is open on select dates for tours between April and September. Calcot & Spa (read the review here ) has double rooms from £364 including breakfast.

Llwynywermod, Llandovery

The Royal family also has a Welsh home. When he was Prince of Wales, Charles bought the 192-acre estate of Llwynywermod in Carmarthenshire, Wales, in 2006. Comprising a farmhouse building, where he and Camilla would regularly holiday, and three cottages, Charles soon set about renovating the house and its adjoining properties in a greener way, using locally sourced materials. 

On Charles’ ascension to the throne, the property was passed on to William, the new Prince of Wales, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who also have a strong affection for the Welsh countryside, having spent some of the early years of their marriage living in Anglesey.

What’s special about here is that two of the cottages are available for holiday lets – North Range, for instance, is a beautiful whitewashed converted barn that sleeps six guests across three bedrooms and comes with a flagstone floor, open fire, Welsh furniture and lots of character. The smaller West Range sleeps four guests.

North Range and West Range can be booked through the Duchy of Cornwall (01579 346 473) and cost from £1,225 per week.

Balmoral, Aberdeenshire

Elizabeth II spent her final weeks in Balmoral and this palace in the Highlands was reputedly her favourite home. 

She is not the only royal to have felt an affinity for the place. Queen Victoria, who fell in love with the Highlands during her very first visit in 1842, was the first monarch to call it home. She and Albert loved to escape public life here, embarking on expeditions incognito through the Highlands. 

The late Queen spent every summer at Balmoral (August–October) and she would regularly be joined by other members of the Royal family. When the monarch is not in residence, the site is open to visitors. 

Although you can only see a small section of the castle’s interiors – including the ballroom where Ghillies Balls have historically been held – it’s the majestic setting amid acres of greenery with views across to the Cairngorms that makes a visit here worthwhile. 

The Royal family are considered locals in the nearby village of Ballater and are regularly seen attending services at nearby Crathie Kirk. Indeed in April 2023, Charles and Camilla surprised residents by making an unexpected visit to a new fishmongers and restaurant in the village during a pre-Coronation holiday at Balmoral.

Balmoral (01339 742 534) is open for pre-booked self-guided tours every summer (1 April to 16 Aug 2023). The Fife Arms (read the review here ) has double rooms from £250 including breakfast.

Read more about where the Royal family like to holiday here .

Sandringham, Norfolk

The Royal family traditionally spends Christmas at the sprawling estate of Sandringham. The private country retreat has been a popular haunt since 1862, when the Jacobean house was built for King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra while Edward’s mother was still on the throne.

It was also a favourite of King Charles III’s grandfather, King George VI, and great-grandfather, King George V, who both died here. The house and gardens are a joy to explore. Norfolk is also where Anmer Hall, another of William and Catherine’s homes, is located.

Sandringham (01485 544 112) is open Sat-Thu (summer). The Brisley Bell (read the review here ) has double rooms from £133 including breakfast.

Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh

Until 1997 the Royal family would take annual holidays around Scotland’s Western Isles aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia . After the yacht was decommissioned, it was docked in the seaside Edinburgh suburb of Leith in Edinburgh and has since become one of Scotland’s most popular attractions.

A tour of the yacht allows you to peer into the bedroom that Queen Elizabeth II slept in while on board and reveals a glimpse of what life in the Royal family is like when the eyes of the world are not upon them. The late Queen clearly missed her days on board; after the yacht was no longer available to her, she chartered the Hebridean Princess , which offers small-ship cruises, on two separate occasions for special celebrations.

The Royal Yacht Britannia (0131 555 5566) is open daily (summer). Fingal (read the review here ) is a luxurious floating hotel nearby. It has double rooms from £300 including breakfast. The Hebridean Princess (01756 704 704) offers cruises from March to November with prices from £4,420pp for seven nights).

Read more about the travels of Elizabeth II here .

Kensington Palace, London

This west London mansion was the beloved home of Princess Diana and both the Diana Memorial Fountain and the Diana Memorial Playground can be found in its gardens. Apartment 1a is still the London pad of the Prince of Wales and his family. 

For many years, Kensington was known for the magnificent balls that were held across its ornate interconnected rooms and began in the late 17 th century during the era of King William and Mary. The already grandiose interiors were later added to by the Georgians when Kensington became the hub of high society. Elaborate decoration, such as the painted walls around the King’s Staircase which features many characters from George I’s court, were also added. 

As well as standard tours of the palace, regular exhibitions draw on its rich history, telling the stories of past and present royals in new and dynamic ways. Victoria: A Royal Childhood tells the story of one of the palace’s most famous residents. Queen Victoria was born here and the exhibition includes personal items such as her doll house. Other rolling exhibitions let visitors see precious items from the palace’s archive; often including iconic outfits worn by various members of the Royal family.

Kensington Palace (0333 320 6000) is open Wed–Sun (summer).  Baglioni (read the review here ), opposite Kensington Gardens, has double rooms from £494 including breakfast.

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