Buckingham Palace
The King's official London residence — State Rooms open in summer, Changing of the Guard year-round.
About
Why visit Buckingham Palace
The official London home of the British monarch since Queen Victoria moved in in 1837. The 775-room palace opens its 19 lavish State Rooms to the public each summer, and the courtyard hosts the pageantry of the Changing of the Guard — with regimental bands and bearskin-hatted Foot Guards — several times a week.
- The palace has 775 rooms including 78 bathrooms and its own ATM in the basement.
- The Royal Standard flying above means the monarch is in residence.
- It was originally built as a townhouse for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703.
Not to miss
Highlights
The moments that define a visit to Buckingham Palace.
State Rooms
The Throne Room, Ballroom and Picture Gallery in full royal dress.
Changing of the Guard
The 45-minute military ceremony in the forecourt.
The Royal Mews
The Gold State Coach and the King's working stables.
The Queen's Gallery
Rotating exhibitions from the Royal Collection.
Right for you?
Is this attraction right for me?
Local know-how
Visitor tips
Small things that turn a good visit into a great one.
Arrive by 10:30 for a good spot at the Guard change (typically 11:00 on ceremony days).
The gates on The Mall offer better views than directly outside the palace.
State Rooms tickets sell out weeks ahead in high summer — book online in advance.
Nearby
Combine with
Other guides within a short walk.
Westminster Abbey
The gothic coronation church of English monarchs since 1066 — Poets' Corner, royal tombs and daily choral services.
Open guideBig Ben & Houses of Parliament
The Elizabeth Tower, Westminster Palace and Whitehall — the medieval heart of British government.
Open guideLondon Eye
135m Thames-side observation wheel with 360° views across Westminster and the City.
Open guideSee it with a guide
Tours & experiences
Curated picks across guided walks, skip-the-line entry and after-hours access.