can i visit buckingham palace garden

We tour the Buckingham Palace gardens and discover its secrets

We tour the expansive gardens found at Buckingham Palace, from the secret beehives to the impressive rosebeds

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The British Royal Family is famous for its love of gardening, so it is unsurprising that the Buckingham Palace gardens are some of the best in the world. 

Spanning a massive 42 acres, the Palace gardens in London are some of several expansive royal residence gardens cared for by a team of elite gardeners year-round. The garden fulfils many roles year-round, both as a private garden for the Royal Family and as a venue for royal events. The most famous of these were the late Queen's Garden Parties, which saw around 24,000 guests from around the world welcomed to the gardens each summer. 

Here, we take a look around the Buckingham Palace gardens for ourselves and discover some of the secrets of this immense space in the heart of London. 

Tour the Buckingham Palace Gardens

The starting point for many of the gardens tours, the herbaceous border spans a massive 511 feet. Far from standard low-maintenance garden border ideas , the garden borders feature a large proportion of the garden's plant varieties, including many humble cottage garden plants – a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II.

Despite the garden's urban surroundings, some plants in and around the border are some of the only of their variety in England, with rare flora and fauna making the garden a unique biodiverse habitat.

The borders are backed by trees dating back to the reign of Queen Victoria, and some were planted by the Queen and Prince Albert themselves.

One of the main features of the gardens is the three-and-a-half acre lake, complete with a waterfall and private island that provides a safe haven for the large array of wildlife that lives within the walls of the garden. 

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Wildlife conservation is a cause close to the hearts of many of the Royal Family, with King Charles III fostering a close relationship with the Word Wildlife Fund and nurturing his own garden at his private home, Highgrove House . 

The Buckingham Palace gardens continue to provide aspirational wildlife garden ideas with a collection of five bee hives added to the property in 2008. 

Overlooking the lake and the rose beds, the bee hives help to produce around 160 jars of honey per year to cater for the royal kitchens. 

The rose garden ideas are by far some of the most impressive beds in the royal collection. The garden itself contains 25 beds, each with 60 rose bushes of different varieties. 

The striking beauty of the rose beds comes from the fact that no two adjacent beds are planted with roses of the same color. Flowers were often cut from these bushes to present to the late Queen in seasonal posies each Monday when she was staying at the Palace. 

Once an extensive grass meadow designed for grazing cows and sheep, the Buckingham Palace garden meadows are now rich with wildflower garden ideas , encouraging the wild growth of native flora and a natural habitat for visiting wildlife.

The meadow, found in the southwest of the gardens, is home to over 320 different types of wildflowers and grasses, making it one of the most diverse meadows in England, and features a gorgeous summer house for private escapes.

Besides the flowers, the Buckingham Palace gardens are also home to over 1,000 species of tree including 98 plane trees, 85 different species of oak, and 40 different types of Mulberry tree, making the garden the official site of the National Collection of Mulberries in 2000. 

The trees in the Palace gardens are also some of the oldest additions to the garden, with the first Buckingham Palace mulberry tree having been planted in the gardens in 1608 by James I, for example. Other special trees include the named Victoria and Albert plane trees planted by the couple during their reign.

Trees have been continuously planted by each generation of royals throughout the long history of the Royal Family.

The Buckingham Palace garden is also a shining example of sustainable garden ideas . 

With the family's growing recognition and support of sustainable practices, such as King Charles' refusal of Buckingham Palace as his home on the grounds of its impractical and unsustainable running costs, it is unsurprising that their gardens follow a similar philosophy. 

In 1991, a sustainable recycling center was established in the gardens at the Queen's request. The facility now recycles 99% of all green waste produced by London's royal gardens. 

The result of this sustainable approach means that the gardens are now also a haven for wildlife, playing host to more than 50 species of birds each year, 30 of which are permanent residents. On a smaller scale, the gardens are home to over 300 types of beetle too, hinting at the immense amount of biodiversity hosted at this single site. 

Buckingham Palace: A Royal Garden available on Amazon

Buckingham Palace: A Royal Garden  provides unique insight into the activities of the Palace's gardening team, such as mulberry harvesting and creating winter bouquets for the Palace. Practical advice is accompanied by atmospheric photography, royal anecdotes, and an engaging and authoritative narrative from leading gardening author, Claire Masset.

Can you walk through Buckingham Palace gardens?

The Buckingham Palace gardens usually open between July and October each year, allowing visitors to explore areas of the Palace and the Palace gardens and take tours around the property. Dates may vary depending on events taking place in the Palace and booking is required. 

Chiana has been at Homes & Gardens for two years, having started her journey in interior journalism as part of the graduate program. She spends most of her time producing content for the Solved section of the website, helping readers get the most out of their homes through clever decluttering, cleaning, and tidying tips – many of which she tests and reviews herself in her home in Lancaster to ensure they will consistently deliver for her readers and dabbles in the latest design trends. She also has a first-class degree in Literature from Lancaster University.

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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.

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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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Visiting Buckingham Palace: 10 Best Things to See & Do

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

When you think of Britain, and in particular England, many images will pop into your head. For visitors to London from across the globe, royalty is often the first thing they think of when planning their England travel itinerary. And nothing says "Royal Family" quite as loudly a visit to Buckingham Palace.

The official London residence of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria's accession in 1837, Buckingham Palace was originally built for the Duke of Buckingham, and was purchased by George III in 1762. Known affectionately to Londoners as "Buck House," it was later enlarged by George IV's court architect, John Nash, in 1825.

The east wing was added in 1846, and in 1913, when George V was king, the east front was given its present Neoclassical look.

To this day, when the sovereign is in residence, the Royal Standard flies over the palace, and units of the Guards Division, dressed in full uniform, mount a guard. On special occasions, such as those usually spectacular royal weddings, the sovereign appears with members of the Royal Family on the central balcony for a friendly wave and a dose of adulation from the crowds.

Tourists today are able to visit Buckingham palace and explore many areas of the palace complex, including areas that were once considered for "royal eyes" and their staff only. From sumptuously furnished state rooms to wonderful works of art, the public now has greater access to Buckingham Palace than at any other time in history.

To help you make the most of your visit to this royal household, be sure to read through our list of the top things to see and do in Buckingham Palace and its vicinity.

1. Experience the Colorful Pageantry of the Changing of the Guard Ceremony

2. visit the royal state rooms, 3. explore the royal mews, 4. view the rare artworks at the queen's gallery, 5. take a tour of clarence house, 6. take a stroll through green park, 7. the garden at buckingham palace, 8. explore the household cavalry museum, 9. the victoria monument, 10. visit the guards museum, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to buckingham palace.

The historic Changing of the Queen's Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace has been a treasured London tradition since 1660. Otherwise known as "Guard mounting," this must-see spectacle begins when a troop of the Queen's Life Guard rides from their Hyde Park Barracks and past Buckingham Palace to change the guard at Horse Guards.

This must-see display of pageantry is widely regarded as one of the top free things to do in London. Consequently, things do get very crowded around Buckingham Palace as pedestrians make their way through Green Park and crowd the sidewalks around Memorial Gardens and the Victoria Monument. So try to arrive a little early to ensure a good view of the ceremony.

This colorful spectacle starts daily at 11:30am from April to July, and on alternate days thereafter. While the ceremony lasts approximately 40 minutes, you can drag the excitement out a little longer and follow the "relieved" guards as they march smartly back to their barracks.

Official Site: https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace

For eight weeks in the summer of 1993, Buckingham Palace's State Rooms were opened to the public for the very first time. The proceeds of this landmark event were devoted to the restoration of Windsor Castle , parts of which were severely damaged by a tragic fire the previous year.

Following the success of the venture, the State Rooms are now part of a superb tour that features many excellent pieces from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, sculptures by Canova, as well as rare porcelain and fine period furniture. Your tour also includes a look inside the Throne Room, the Music Room, the Picture Gallery, and the spectacular White Drawing Room.

The popular tours do book early, and are limited to the 10 weeks each summer between July and October that the Queen is away in Balmoral in the Scottish Highlands .

Official site: www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/the-state-rooms-buckingham-palace/plan-your-visit

In the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace, you can see a fascinating array of state coaches and carriages. Some are still used by British monarchs on special occasions, such as weddings and funerals.

The most impressive of the coaches on display is the elaborate Gold State Coach . Built for George III in 1762, it has been used for every coronation since 1821. This spectacular Royal carriage is so heavy that it takes eight horses to pull it. The horses, including the famous Windsor Greys, are also stabled in the Mews.

Other items in the collection are the Australian State Coach, a gift from the people of Australia in 1988 and which the monarch drives to the state opening of Parliament; and the Glass Coach, acquired by George V in 1910 and used principally for royal weddings. A number of Rolls Royce limousines , including an extremely rare Phantom VI, along with models from Bentley and Jaguar, are also on display.

Between May and October, interesting free 45-minute guided tours are included with admission to the Royal Mews, led hourly by Wardens in their navy and red livery. These interesting tours explain the responsibilities of the mews staff and describe how royal travel is arranged for special events. Other fun things to do include dressing up and sitting in one of the royal carriages.

Be sure to check the Royal Mews's official website for details of closures or any carriages, such as the Gold State Coach, being in use elsewhere.

Address: Buckingham Palace Road, London, England

Official site: www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/royalmews

The Queen's Gallery is an excellent public art gallery that occupies part of the west front of Buckingham Palace. It houses varying exhibitions of up to 450 works from the extensive Royal Collection at any given time.

Located on the site of a former chapel, the gallery has been extensively restored and expanded and is a superb place to view some of Britain's most important royal art collections. Free multimedia tours are available. A great shop is also located on the premises.

Address: Buckingham Palace, London, England

Official site: www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/the-queens-gallery-buckingham-palace

The official London residence of the Prince of Wales, the superbly renovated Clarence House, just behind the Palace, has been opened to the public for tours only during the month of August. These interesting tours last an hour, and you'll see the formal gardens and five ground-floor rooms used by the Prince for official engagements: The Lancaster Room, The Morning Room, The Library, The Dining Room, and The Garden Room.

Designed. by John Nash, the building was completed in 1827 and today houses much of the Queen's art collection , including paintings by 20th-century artists such as John Piper, Graham Sutherland, and Augustus John. The house also displays some of her porcelain and silver collection. A souvenir and gift shop is located on-site.

Official site: www.royal.uk/royal-residences-clarence-house

Located directly across from Buckingham Palace, Green Park was once part of the palace gardens and was a favorite retreat of Charles II. The park remained enclosed and restricted for Royal use until the 1700s, and was landscaped extensively in the 1800s.

Today, the 40-acre park, the smallest of Britain's Royal Parks, is only separated from the palace by a roadway and offers excellent views of the royal residence. Unlike most Royal Parks, it largely consists of woods and meadows, with notable features including Canada Gate, facing Buckingham Palace, and memorials, including the recently added Bomber Command Memorial.

While there are no flowerbeds, the park offers up an amazing display of daffodils each spring, when some one million bulbs blossom.

Official site: www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/green-park

More than 350 varieties of wildflowers and 200 tree varieties grow in the 39 acres of gardens behind Buckingham Palace. These surround a three-acre lake on whose shore Queen Elizabeth and her sister played as children.

Today, the Queen holds her famous Garden Parties on the lawns and stately promenades. Top attractions on a tour of the gardens are the beautiful floral border, the Rose Garden, the wildflower meadow, the Summer House, the giant Waterloo Vase, and the tennis courts where King George VI played.

Be aware, however, that these popular tours do sell out quickly, and are held only on select days between July and September. For a special treat, bring a picnic for you and your family to enjoy on the lawns of Buckingham Palace Gardens.

Official site: www.rct.uk/event/the-garden-at-buckingham-palace

The Household Cavalry Museum explores the colorful history of the British Army's senior regiment from its creation in 1661. Along with displays of uniforms, standards, elegant horse fittings, awards, and musical instruments are audio-visuals and hands-on exhibits that will appeal to children.

Popular things to do include trying on real guards' helmets and regalia, and you can also watch through a glass wall as the guards prepare their horses in the stables. It's also possible to go outside to see the daily Guard Change at 10:50am (9:50 Sunday); the Guard Inspection at 4pm; or mounted sentry changes on the hour, from 10am to 4pm daily.

A well-stocked souvenir and gift shop is located on the premises.

Address: Horse Guards, Whitehall, London, England

Official site: www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk/

Directly in front of Buckingham Palace is the large memorial to Queen Victoria. Designed by Sir Aston Webb, with sculpture by Sir Thomas Brock, it portrays the former queen surrounded by the allegorical figures of Victory, Endurance, Courage, Truth, Justice, Science, Art, and Agriculture.

Recently renovated, it offers up one of London's most popular photo settings, especially when framed with Buckingham Palace in the background.

This interesting museum presents the history of the five regiments of Foot Guards and includes uniforms, weapons, and memorabilia from more than 300 years. Other interesting displays include a chronology of the regimental uniforms. as well as artwork, weapons, and models.

Miniature and military collectors should visit the shop, The Guards Toy Soldier Centre , on the right as you enter through the main gates off Birdcage Walk. Guided tours and walks are available.

Address: Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk, London

Official site: www.theguardsmuseum.com

• Tours of Buckingham Palace: You can combine a visit to the State Rooms with a guided walk through St. James Park and a prime view of the royal guards on a Buckingham Palace Tour Including Changing of the Guard Ceremony . The 2.5-hour tour includes an audio guide to the State Rooms. For an even more iconic London experience, the four-hour Buckingham Palace Tour Including Changing of the Guard Ceremony and Afternoon Tea finishes with an elegantly served traditional afternoon tea at a posh London hotel.
• The Queen's Gallery and Royal Mews Tickets: Both are on a timed-ticket system, so purchase tickets first, then explore the parks and monuments while waiting. Be sure to have a staff member stamp your ticket for re-entry - it's good for a year, so you can break up your visits.
• Kids: Activity bags are available free of charge, so be sure to ask for one when collecting your tickets. A kids' drawing and coloring room is available in the State Rooms.
• Security: Expect airport-style security checks, and large bags and backpacks must be left in the cloakroom provided.
• Getting to Buckingham Palace: The nearest tube stations are Victoria, Green Park, and Hyde Park Corner.

Address: Buckingham Palace Road, London

Official site: www.royal.uk

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For the First Time in History, the Queen’s Buckingham Palace Gardens Are Open to Visitors

Visitors to Buckingham Palace this week have the opportunity to make history, as the Queen has opened up the palace gardens to the public for the very first time. While the Queen’s London home opens every summer for public tours of the state apartments and has been doing so since 1993, the Royal Collection Trust is now offering extended guided tours of the gardens.

It will be the first time members of the public will be allowed to bring picnics into the palace (or purchase them from various food stations on site) since the Big Lunch initiative to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

The royal palaces have suffered huge financial losses in the past year because of the pandemic-induced decline in tourists and visitors, and it is hoped that opening the splendid gardens will boost the number of visitors into the palace. Ticket holders will be able to explore the 39 acres of gardens and woodland which include a man-made lake. There is also a chance to see one of the Queen’s tea rooms complete with her very own furniture and a wicker Corgi. The gardens are home to birdlife including coots, moor hens, cranes and geese as well as a vast number of insects including Italian honey bees, which provide 200 jars of honey used in royal kitchens each year.

The gardens are also home to two resplendent plane trees planted by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert at some point in the mid 1800s. A meticulous writer of journals, Victoria never made any record of planting the trees, so palace curators have not been able to ascertain which tree was planted by whom and exactly when.

The gardens are rich in history. The lawns and beds were first laid down by the Duke of Buckingham, who owned the palace before the Royal Family. Most famous for the Queen’s annual garden parties, which the palace hopes to resume next year, the verdant lawns are also used for official occasions including festivals and various royal engagements. Prince William met with members of the NHS in the palace gardens earlier this week.

While visitors won’t get to see a glimpse of the Queen, who is in residence at Windsor Castle and will shortly be heading to Balmoral for her annual summer holiday, the guided walk does allow visitors to walk past the private apartments and the palace swimming pool where Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge sometimes takes her children swimming.

The tour includes a walk around the colorful rose gardens, which include the Prince William rose planted to celebrate the future King’s birth and a bed of pink roses planted in honour of the late Queen Mother. Visitors can also take a seat in the Queen’s summer house and admire a great urn across the lawn which stands as tall as a double decker bus.

The tour follows camelia-lined walkways and there are various points of interest, including the sun dial that the Queen pointed out to David Attenborough in a 2018 TV special. There is also the Prince Albert Gate which leads to an island in the lake that forbids all visitors, in order to preserve rare grasses, plants and wildlife.

While the gardens are vast they are tended by a team of just eleven gardeners who work at Buckingham Palace and Clarence House, the Prince of Wales’ official London residence. Mark Lane, the head gardener, has been at the palace since the 1970s, and is so connected with the history of the palace gardens that one of the scuttle flies discovered in the gardens has been named Megaselia Marklanei.

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Inside the gardens of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle

Did you know that Buckingham Palace garden is home to five beehives, more than 50 types of birds and over 300 varieties of beetle?

Did you know that Buckingham Palace garden is home to five beehives, more than 50 types of bird and over 300 varieties of beetle? Learn more about the stunning gardens at the two royal residences in England and explore them through pictures.

Mark Lane is the head gardener at Buckingham Palace garden, where a sweeping lake gives way to an island and a 156m herbaceous border brings colour to the summer months.

Inside Buckingham Palace garden

Queen Charlotte established a menagerie in the garden at Buckingham Palace in 1762. It included an elephant, monkeys and one of the first zebras ever seen in England. The 36-acre grounds, as they are now, date back to the 1820s, when George IV turned Buckingham House into a palace.

Despite its urban location, the garden is home to an array of flora and fauna, including rare native plants such as the white helleborine. This native orchid was discovered growing in the garden in 2013. It had not previously been seen in London since 1900.

Since 2000, the garden has held the National Collection of Mulberries. Mulberry trees were first planted in the garden by James I in 1608. There are now 40 different types growing in it, alongside many other trees.

The island in the lake has homed five beehives since 2008. These produce around 160 jars of honey a year for the royal kitchens. Meanwhile, the Rose Garden contains 25 beds of roses, each planted with 60 rose bushes of a different variety.

A Recycling Centre was established in the garden in 1991 at the request of Queen Elizabeth II. It recycles 99% of all green waste from London’s royal gardens.

The garden is a rich biodiverse habitat, with more than 1,000 trees and 320 different wildflowers and grasses. It is also home to several botanicals used to make Buckingham Palace Gin, including lemon verbena, hawthorn berries, bay leaves and mulberry leaves.

Inside Windsor Castle garden

The East Terrace Garden at Windsor Castle opened its doors for the first time in 40 years during the summer of 2020, and opened again to visitors last July.

This garden was first designed in 1826 for George IV by the architect Sir Jeffry Wyatville. The aim was to create a view from the King’s new suite of royal apartments. It was created on the site of an old bowling green made for Charles II in the 1670s.

During the Second World War, Elizabeth II (then Princess Elizabeth) and her sister, Princess Margaret, were each assigned a small plot in which to cultivate vegetables. After the War, the planting scheme was simplified into a pattern of formal rose beds. In 1971, Prince Philip, duke of Edinburgh redesigned the flowerbeds and commissioned a new bronze lotus fountain based on his own design for the centre of garden.

Discover more about Buckingham Palace garden at rct.uk  

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Buckingham Palace Garden Ticket with Picnic

Get Buckingham Palace Garden tickets with a picnic included. Explore the gardens at Buckingham Palace which are normally off access to the public, but are open in Summer 2021 with very limited availability. Explore the garden and enjoy a delicious royal-themed picnic on the lawn with views overlooking Buckingham Palace. The picnic is prepared by Rubens at the Palace Hotel.

Tickets are not available in 2023. However, you can book tickets to The State Rooms in Summer 2023, where you can see part of the garden at the end of the visit. 

Buckingham Palace Garden ticket

• Get tickets to Buckingham Palace Garden
• Explore the gardens winding paths, and magnificent features.
• Highlights include 156-meter Herbaceous Border, the Horse Chestnut Avenue, the plane trees planted by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert
•  Stay if you wish up until closing time

Picnic in the park

• Enjoy your own picnic on the lawns of Buckingham Palace Garden!
• Collect your picnic in advance from The Rubens at the Palace. This five-star hotel is located opposite the Visitor Entrance of Buckingham Palace
• Includes a light-weight and disposable picnic carrier

Picnic menu for Adult tickets

• Smoked Scottish Salmon & Horseradish Cream Cheese on Beetroot Bread
• Coronation Chicken & Toasted Almonds on White Bread
• Ham, Cheese & Tomato Chutney on Sundried Tomato Bread
• Egg & Watercress on Spinach Bread
• Cucumber & Cream Cheese on Brown Bread
• Traditional Plain
• Honey & White Chocolate, served With Homemade Seasonal Fruit Preserve & Clotted Cream
• The Crown – Cinnamon Chocolate Mousse, Brownie Biscuit, Coconut Marshmallow. Chocolate Is A Firm Favorite Of Her Majesty, The Queen
• Fruit From The Queen’s Orchard – Seasonal Glazed Fruit-Shaped Mousse With Compote. A Tribute To Her Majesty, The Queen’s Orchard At Windsor Castle
• Royal Macaron – Caramelized Apples, Coffee Whipped Ganache. Ode To the Late Prince Phillip Who Loved A Good Apple Dessert
• Seasonal Rubens Éclair – A Choice Of A Seasonal Éclair By The Pastry Chef. A Homage To Prince Charles’ Sustainable Farming
• Bread & Butter – Sourdough Bread Pudding Cream, Rose, And Raspberry, Lemon Sponge Tart. A Delightful Take On A Favorite Of The Late Princess Diana

Cold Brewed Tea Infusion

• Picnic Menu For Child Tickets

Sandwiches On White Bread & Caraway Seeded Bread

• Strawberry Jam & Peanut Butter
• Ham & Cheese
• Chocolate Nutella
• Cucumber & Cream Cheese
• Traditional
• Plain Honey & White Chocolate, served With Homemade Seasonal Fruit Preserve & Clotted Cream
• Rubens Marshmallow
• Royal Seasonal Cupcake
• Rubens Iced Doughnuts

Bottle of still / sparkling water (750 ml)

More details:

• Picnic must be collected from the Rubens at the Palace hotel 25 minutes prior to entry time shown on the ticket for The Garden at Buckingham Palace.
• All visitors must pass through airport-style security to enter the palace gardens
• The following is not permitted at Buckingham Palace: Alcohol, glassware, sharp-bladed knives, radio/speaker, barbeques, parasols, windbreakers, gazebos, Ball games, or similar
• A child picnic menu will be provided for child tickets (5-16 years)
• Allergens for Afternoon Tea Picnic: All requests are treated with extra care. Nevertheless, due to the nature of the offering, there is no guarantee that any item served is 100% allergen or intolerant free. Please advise if you have any food allergies, special dietary requirements or require information on ingredients used in the dishes no later than 48 hours in advance by replying to your booking confirmation or using the contact form on the checkout page. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free diets can be catered for.
• Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund

BOOK TICKETS

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How To Visit Buckingham Palace

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“Pussycat, pussycat, where have you been? I’ve been to London to look at the queen!” These are the starting words of a traditional children’s nursery rhyme. And it’s not only nursery-rhyme cats interested in attractions associated with the royal family.

Buckingham Palace , the King’s official London residence and the administrative headquarters of the British monarchy, is one of London’s top 10 attractions according to Visit London . Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard, tour the State Rooms, visit the Royal Mews, see changing art exhibitions, or simply enjoy views of Buckingham Palace and the Queen Victoria Monument from adjoining Green Park .

Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of British sovereigns since 1837 when Queen Victoria made it her home. But the property’s Royal Family history goes back to 1761 when George III bought Buckingham House for his wife Queen Charlotte.

Where Is Buckingham Palace?

Buckingham Palace sits at the intersection of The Mall, Constitution Hill, and Spur Road off Birdcage Walk in the City of Westminster in central London. The Palace is surrounded by gardens and green space on three sides. St. James’s Park sits on the east side and Green Park on the north side. Royal gardens run behind the Palace to the west. A number of London tourist attractions, including Westminster Abbey, the Churchill War Rooms, and Trafalgar Square, lie within a one-mile radius of the palace.

The Wellington Arch , a large stone archway flanked with Corinthian columns and topped with the largest bronze sculpture in Europe, sits at the western end of Constitution Hill at Hyde Park Corner. Originally built as the outer entrance to Buckingham Palace, the arch was moved to its current location in the 1880s. You can purchase tickets to get inside the arch, where rooms over five stories house historical exhibitions and balconies offer views of Buckingham Palace’s back gardens and London’s Royal Parks.

s4svisuals / Shutterstock

How To Get To Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace’s central location is easily reached by the Underground, by train, and by coach/bus.

How To Get To Buckingham Palace By Subway

London’s subway system, known as the London Underground or by its nickname, the Tube, is fast and efficient. The nearest Underground stops to Buckingham Palace are Victoria, Green Park, St. James’s Park, and Hyde Park Corner.

It’s roughly an 11-minute walk to Buckingham Palace from Victoria Station, an 8-minute walk from Green Park Station or St. James’s Park Station, and a 12-minute walk from Hyde Park Corner Station.

How To Get To Buckingham Palace By Train

The National Rail System is a passenger train network connecting London with the rest of the country. You might use this system to get to Buckingham Palace if you are coming from outside of the Greater London area serviced by the Underground. London Victoria and Charing Cross Station are the nearest train stations to Buckingham Palace.

How To Get To Buckingham Palace By Coach Or Bus

Bus numbers 11, 211, C1 and C10 stop on Buckingham Palace Road. Victoria Coach Station is a 10-minute walk from the Palace. Use Transport for London’s Plan a Journey page to determine which bus to take from your starting location.

Buckingham Palace is also a stop on some hop-on, hop-off tourist buses.

Ink Drop / Shutterstock

When Is The Best Time To Visit Buckingham Palace?

If you want to get inside Buckingham Palace, summer is the best time to visit. Although the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are open to visitors for a few selected dates in winter and spring, the primary touring time is in summer.

Summer also offers the best weather for viewing the Changing of the Guard . Of course, summer is the busiest tourist season and you will be jostling amongst a crowd for the best views. Bundle up or pack a poncho, and you can see the Changing of the Guard throughout the year.

The Royal Mews is open February through November. Guided tours are offered between April and October. The Royal Mews is responsible for all the road travel arrangements for the King and the Royal Family. Inside you’ll find historic carriages, a stable of horses, and livery worn by the King’s horsemen. Note that the Royal Mews are part of a working royal palace and closures sometimes happen at short notice.

The Queen’s Gallery is a public art gallery that features changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection featuring old master paintings, rare furniture, decorative arts, and photographic images. The Queen’s Gallery is open year-round.

cowardlion / Shutterstock

When Is The Changing Of The Guard?

The Changing of the Guard is a ceremony in which the King’s Guards, clad in scarlet uniforms and bearskin caps, hand off responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace. The guards are Foot Guards, or highly trained infantry soldiers.

The ceremony, which is free to watch, takes place on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace. Formation of the guards in preparation for the ceremony begins around 10:30 a.m. when the Buckingham Palace Old Guard lines up for inspection, the St. James Old Guard begins its march down The Mall, and the New Guard forms on the parade square at Wellington Barracks. Guards and bands start arriving at Buckingham Palace at 10:45 a.m. The actual handover, when the New Guard enters the forecourt via the North Gate and receives the Palace Keys, occurs at 11 a.m. sharp. This is followed by marches of the Old and New Guards. The ceremony takes approximately 45 minutes. Musical accompaniment is provided by a regimental band or corps of drums.

The Changing of the Guard is popular. It is recommended you arrive before 10:15 a.m. to get a good viewing spot. The Buckingham Palace railings are a good spot with visibility of the entire forecourt ceremony, but you need to arrive very early to situate yourself here.

The elevated position of the steps of the Victoria Monument also provides a reasonable view. Spur Road on the left facing Buckingham Palace is a good place to see the New Guard and Band marching up Birdcage Walk. Remember to “make way for the King’s Guard!” and not stand in the way of the Foot Guards.

Although the Changing of the Guard occurs several times a week, it is not scheduled everyday. Check the Changing of the Guard schedule before you plan your visit.

Royal Collection Trust

How To Tour The Inside of Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has 775 rooms, including 240 Royal, guest, and staff bedrooms, 92 offices, 78 bathrooms, and 19 State rooms. The State Rooms inside Buckingham Palace are open to visitors for 10 weeks each summer and on selected dates during winter and spring. The King’s private living spaces are not open to the public.

The State Rooms are the public rooms in the palace where the King and members of the Royal Family receive and entertain guests on ceremonial and official occasions. Rooms you will tour after entering via the opulent, red-carpeted Grand Staircase include the White Drawing Room, the Throne Room, the Ballroom, and the Picture Gallery.

Each year the Royal Collection Trust , the organization that manages public openings of the official residences of His Majesty the King, curates a special exhibit for the summer opening at Buckingham Palace. In 2019, Queen Victoria’s Palace held an exhibition to honor the 200th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s birth, telling the story of how the young queen transformed Buckingham Palace from a private house into a working royal residence.

You need to purchase tickets for the State Rooms tour in advance. Tickets can be booked online. Arrive at least 10 minutes before your entry time. You will go through airport-style security. Complimentary multimedia guides are provided. Photographs are not allowed. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair bit of walking involved. The Royal Collection Trust recommends you allow up to 2 hours and 30 minutes for your State Rooms tour. One of the available ticketing options allows you to add a 45-minute guided tour of Buckingham Palace Gardens to your State Rooms visit.

Can I See The King At Buckingham Palace?

The nursery-rhyme cat may have had a look at the queen, but you are unlikely to see the now King when you visit Buckingham Palace. State Room tours are scheduled when the King is not in residence. When the King is at home at Buckingham Palace, you’ll see his flag, the Royal Standard, flying from the flagpole on top of the palace.

If your visit to London coincides with a Royal Wedding or a special event of national significance, you may be able to get a glimpse of the King on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, where he and Royal Family members gather to wave to crowds below.

Your best bet for getting a look at the King may actually be away from Buckingham Palace at one of the functions he attends. The Royal Diary on the Royal Family website contains a list of engagements to be attended by His Royal Majesty and other Royal Family members.

Two annual events offer opportunities to see the King. For the State Opening of Parliament in May, the King travels from Buckingham Palace to the Palace of Westminster in a State coach escorted by the Household Cavalry.

Headed to the UK? Here’s why Oxford is well worth visiting on your next trip to England .

Photo Credit: HiStockPhoto / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Pajor Pawel / Shutterstock

Donna Janke is a writer based in Canada out of Winnipeg, Manitoba. She shares her travel discoveries on her blog, Destinations Detours and Dreams , using a combination of narrative, photography, and personal reflection, all with an eye for detail. Her interest in travel started as a child when books transported her around the world, and grew as she explored the world in person. Her life as a travel writer began after she retired from a professional career in IT. Donna loves discovering the unique character of places, near and far, and writing to inspire others in their travels. Her travel stories have been published in several outlets, and tend to focus on culture, history, nature, art, architecture, and food.

How to have a picnic at Buckingham Palace this summer

Apr 9, 2021 • 2 min read

Visitors can check out the Rose Garden Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2021. Photographer John Campbell

If you've ever fancied checking out the garden at Buckingham Palace in England, or would enjoy the prospect of having a picnic in it, you can avail of the opportunity this year.

The grounds of Queen Elizabeth’s official London residence can be explored through self-guided tours for the first time. Visitors can also still take official guided tours. The current landscape of the historic 39-acre garden dates back to the 1820s when George IV turned Buckingham House into a palace. Despite its urban location, the garden is home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including rare native plants seldom seen in London.

The garden is a rich biodiverse habitat, with more than 1000 trees and 320 different wildflowers and grasses, and features include the Rose Garden, summer house and wildflower meadow. Visitors will be free to explore a route through the garden that encompasses the 156-metre Herbaceous Border, plane trees planted by and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and views of the island and its beehives across the 3.5-acre lake. The unique opportunity to enjoy a picnic on one of the sweeping lawns will be part of the visit.

On weekends in April and May, garden enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquillity of the garden and discover its history and highlights by joining a guided tour. Visitors will experience the garden in springtime, with its meadows carpeted with primroses and bluebells, and flowering camellia, magnolia and azalea shrubs and trees. From May to September, special guided tours of Buckingham Palace will be available, and from July, access to the garden will be included in these visits.

Buckingham Palace Garden Guided Tours will run on weekends from 17 April to 16 May 2021. Tickets are priced at £21.50 ($29.47) for adults. Buckingham Palace Spring Guided Tours will run on Fridays and weekends from 21 May to 20 June 2021 and tickets are priced at £47.50 ($65.11) for adults. The Garden at Buckingham Palace will open from 9 July to 19 September and tickets are priced at £16.50 ($22.62) for adults.

The Garden Highlights Guided Tours should be booked with the main ticket and are priced at £6.50 ($8.91) for adults. The State Rooms and Garden at Buckingham Palace will run from 10 July to 19 September 2021, and tickets are priced at £60 ($82.24) for adults. Bookings can be made on the Royal Collection Trust website here.

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Buckingham Palace Gardens: How to Visit the Queen’s Garden

Until now, the only people allowed into Buckingham Palace Gardens were the Royal Family and those people lucky enough to have an invite to one of the Queen’s garden parties. But this summer, for the very first time, visitors can book tickets to visit the garden and have a picnic on the famous lawn.

So many people fancied walking round Buckingham Palace Gardens that tickets sold out within days of being released – but what’s it really like behind those high palace walls? Harry Brocklehurst  is here to tell you all…

The formal facade of Buckingham Palace is perhaps the most recognisable sight in Britain. The appearance of it rarely changes with its closed windows and curtains, gilded gates and uniformed Grenadier Guards. But the 39 acre garden that stretches behind the palace could not be more different. With its hundreds of trees and rare plants, the garden’s blooms put on an impressive show for each season.

Buckingham Palace is a residence built for formality but the gardens provide an escape for the Queen (and a jolly good walk for the corgis). On a guided tour, I was struck by just how personal the garden felt as the guide points out the Queen’s favourite bench and her summer house, complete with 1960s furniture and a wicker corgi.

For £16.50 visitors can wander around the main areas of the garden including the lawn where garden parties are held, the 3.5 acre lake that contains 2.5 million gallons of water and the 150 metre herbaceous border that is one of the longest in Britain. It is from this flower bed that the gardeners create a posy that is placed on the Queen’s desk each Monday so that she can view the garden’s progress through the seasons.

The Queen gave Pope Francis a pot of honey from these bees when she first visited him at the Vatican. The story goes that the Pope liked the honey so much that he asked his assistant to write to the Palace asking if he could have some more. Apparently his request was turned down.

These islands are rarely visited as they are mostly used as nesting areas for the many resident birds. The islands are so wild and dense in plants that eight years ago the white helleborine was discovered on the banks – these are very rare orchids that were last seen in London in 1900.

For an additional £6.50 visitors can join a guide for a tour of the more private areas of the garden. This tour is a must-see as without it you cannot see the famed rose garden (planted with 25 different rose beds), the Waterloo Vase (commissioned by Napoleon for his intended victory at Waterloo but later presented to King William IV), the Queen’s bench and the family tennis courts. The Queen’s father, King George VI, was a keen tennis player and competed at Wimbledon in the Mixed Doubles in 1926.

The gardens of Buckingham Palace act as a sort of living museum. Next to the North Terrace of the palace you’ll find two plane trees planted in 1840 to celebrate Victoria and Albert’s wedding. It’s not known who planted which one so they are both known as Victoria and Albert. Lining the lake are five willow trees dating from the 1880s. Although they are slowly dying off, the gardeners plant a new seedling for every dead tree to continue the garden’s rich diversity of plants.

Buckingham Palace is home to the largest private garden in London. It feels like an oasis in the middle of the city. You can still hear the noise of the traffic but the garden is hidden from the outside world. Our guide told us that the palace gardeners sometimes ride at the top of the number 52 bus which goes past the gardens to double check that the gardens can’t be seen from the top of a double decker. They plant fast growing trees wherever they see gaps.

Buckingham Palace is describing this summer’s opening as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to explore the gardens. We hope that the gardens are opened up to the public more frequently particularly given the high demand to visit them. It is still possible to book tickets to visit the gardens this summer. If you keep checking the Royal Collection website you’ll find some dates still available although it might not be possible to book onto one of the private tours.

Top Tips for Visiting

• Buckingham Palace Gardens are open to visitors this summer from 9th July to 19th September.
• Tickets for Buckingham Palace Gardens cost £16.50 for adults and £9 for children aged 5 to 16.
• Visitors are encouraged to bring picnics to have on the lawn. You can bring your own food and drink or buy something from the café in the garden. Alcohol is not permitted.
• The Garden Highlights Tour is an absolute must as it will take you round the more private parts of the garden. You need to book tickets for this before you arrive and you will not be allowed to take photos in this part of Buckingham Palace Gardens. Tickets cost £6.50 per person.

Disclosure: We were very kindly given free admission to Buckingham Palace Gardens but all opinions are honest and my own.

If you’re inspired to visit more Royal palaces and gardens take a look through some of these:

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It looks beautiful! The lake is especially nice. Glad you were able to look around and enjoy it.

We were really lucky, Lisa. I couldn’t believe how wild some of it felt, right in the middle of London.

What a wonderful opportunity! The photos are lovely.

Thanks Hilary. It was one of Harry’s summer highlights, that’s for sure!

Wow, so very beautiful. Very nice. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks so much for commenting, Patrick. Really glad you enjoyed the post.

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Buckingham Palace

Welcome to the most famous palace in the world.

Our website brings you Information and Facts about Buckingham Palace including how to get there, when to visit the Palace, the History of the Buckingham Palace, Interesting Facts about the Buckingham Palace, Buckingham Palace Tours and not forgetting the world famous Changing of the Guard.

Please Note: Our website is not the official website of the the royal collection trust and have no link or association with buckingham palace, the King or the Royal family nor is it operated with their endorsement. It is, however, provided by dedicated royalists for your information and is the UKs oldest and much loved unoffical guide.

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Tours & Tickets - 2024

A visit to this magnificent palace offers a unique glimpse into the opulent state rooms, the exquisite Royal Collection,...

Changing The Guard

The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a quintessential British ceremony that captivates visitors from around...

Buckingham Palace Interesting Facts

Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British monarch, is steeped in fascinating history and grandeur. Originally known as Buckingham House, it was built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham and acquired by King George III in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. The palace underwent significant expansions under King George IV and became the official royal residence with Queen Victoria's accession in 1837. It boasts 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. The palace's façade, redesigned by Sir Aston Webb in 1913, is one of the most recognizable in the world.

Beyond its architectural splendor, Buckingham Palace is a hub of royal tradition and ceremony. The famous Changing of the Guard, a colourful display of British pageantry, takes place in front of the palace and attracts visitors from around the globe. The palace also houses the largest private garden in London, covering 39 acres and featuring a lake, a helicopter landing pad, and a tennis court. Additionally, during World War II, the palace was bombed nine times, yet the royal family remained there as a symbol of resilience. This blend of history, culture, and tradition makes Buckingham Palace a truly remarkable landmark.

The State Rooms

The State Rooms of Buckingham Palace are among the most opulent and historically significant spaces within the royal residence. Used by the British monarch for ceremonial and official entertaining, these rooms showcase the finest examples of art, furniture, and decorative arts from the Royal Collection. Each room is meticulously designed and adorned, reflecting the grandeur and elegance befitting a palace that serves as the epicenter of British monarchy and state affairs. From hosting state banquets to formal receptions, the State Rooms are where the past and present of the British monarchy seamlessly converge, offering a glimpse into the regal splendor and timeless traditions of the royal household.

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Visiting Buckingham Palace in 2024

The State Rooms are open everyday in July and August. In September they are open to the public from Thursday to Monday (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays)

11th July - 31st of August

Open Daily: 09.30 - 19.30 - Last admission: 17.15

1st - 29th of September

Open Thursday to Monday: 09.30 - 18.30 - Last admission: 16.15

Visitors Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit buckingham palace, when is buckingham palace open to the public, how can i purchase tickets to visit buckingham palace, what areas of buckingham palace can visitors explore, are guided tours available at buckingham palace, is photography allowed inside buckingham palace, how long does a visit to buckingham palace typically take, are there facilities for visitors with disabilities, is there a café or restaurant on site, can i see the changing of the guard during my visit, what other attractions are nearby.

• 12:32, 17 Jul 2024

People have been left stunned after realising that you can go to Buckingham Palace for a coffee and cake.

This summer the iconic London palace will be opening its doors to the public. Royal fans can spend time in the Garden Café on the West Terrace of the venue after paying a visit to State Rooms. From freshly-prepared sandwiches and bagels to fruit pots, raspberry Victoria sponge and an array of cakes, there is plenty to choose from.

In classic British style, plenty of tea is served too, plus speciality coffees. People were wowed after a sneak peak of the café was shared by visitors on Instagram recently. Popular account Exploring London, run by Dr Baj and Dr Vaish, showed off their experience in the palace as the couple said: "Did you know that you can enjoy tea, coffee, and cake inside Buckingham Palace ?

"The palace has just opened to visitors for summer so you can visit State Rooms, the gardens, and sit in the café to enjoy a few treats while sitting in the garden."

One person who has also paid a visit to the Buckingham Palace gardens chimed in: "The gift shop is amazing too." Another added: "We had an amazing time. We had a picnic in the back area then ice cream. Beautiful day at Buckingham Palace."

"I will be there soon," added a third. One other dubbed it as "amazing". Meanwhile a fourth asked: "Are we allowed to go in?", to which the couple replied: "Yes, the ticket includes a tour of the palace itself."

The palace experience costs £32 per adult. A child ticket costs £16 and under-fives go free. It opened on July 11 and will run until September 26.

Throughout July and August the café will be open from 10am until 7pm, plus takeaways are available from 7pm until 7:15pm. In September the stunning spot will be open from 10am until 6pm, and takeaways are form 6pm until 6:15pm.

If you head to the palace for a an espresso it cappuccino or latte it will set you back £3.80, while a regular macchiato is £2.50. A regular espresso is £2.40, a flat white will set you back £3.60, a mocha is £4.15, hot chocolate £3.80, and tea £3.25. Extra coffee shots and syrup shots are £1 and alternative milk options are free.

Those wanting to enjoy an afternoon tea will need to fork out £47.50. Sandwiches are priced at £5.95, salads £7.75, cakes £4 and ice cream £4. There is even a children's lunch bag available for £6.25.

It's not the only experience you can enjoy at the iconic palace – royal fans can also explore the newly-refurbished east wing . The famous palace room which leads out onto the Buckingham Palace balcony can now be visited. It has been kept private for 175 years but after the revamp is now playing host to guided tours.

Although the public won't be allowed to step onto the balcony, they will be able to enjoy breathtaking views down The Mall. Visitors who buy a standard ticket for the palace's state rooms will get the chance to explore the 19 rooms used by the Royal family for official events. 6,000 tickets were sold within hours after being announced in April - priced at £75 per person.

Would you take a trip to the Buckingham Palace café? Comment below.

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Buckingham Palace Is Opening A Wing To The Public For The First Time

B uckingham Palace is an incredibly important landmark in the borough of Westminster. It has been the official London residence of the monarch since 1837. The palace was built in 1703 and has 775 rooms. This includes 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, 78 bathrooms, 52 royal (and guest) bedrooms, and 19 staterooms. The palace is a grand architectural site that spans over 39 acres. This building is now the administrative headquarters of the monarch and is a popular tourist attraction. 

Travelers who visit London typically consider Buckingham Palace to be a necessary stop. This is likely because it is the focus of both national and royal celebrations and has such a rich history. The palace is also the backdrop for regular Changing the Guard (or Guard Mounting) ceremonies. These ceremonies take place at the palace every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Since it hosts important events like these to this day, even locals find it to be a significant cultural site. 

Although the palace is a tried and true tourist destination, the palace has had the same offerings for travelers for quite some time . This is why the sudden announcement of a new opening at the palace received such a positive response from the public. Here is what travelers should know about the opening and how they can visit the previously inaccessible part of the royal estate. 

The New Opening At Buckingham Palace 

The East Wing of the palace is now open to the public for the first time. This opening, according to the Royal Collection Trust, is an effort to share the historic building with new generations. The exclusive experience includes access to the wing’s Center Room, the Yellow Drawing Room, the main corridor, and more. Paying visitors can go behind the scenes where British Royals have been for events like birthdays, weddings, and coronation ceremonies. 

When Can Travelers See the East Wing?

Since 1993, the palace has had temporary openings to the public. During most of the year, it operates as an office and residence, but in the summer people can visit. Buckingham Palace is typically open from July to October each year, allowing visitors a chance to explore the palace’s state rooms and garden on foot. 

The East Wing of Buckingham Palace will be open from July 15 to August 31 for guided tours. Unfortunately, East Wing tours are fully booked for the summer since they only take 20 people at a time. Tickets for the tours sold out in only a few hours. Travelers can still check out Buckingham Palace’s state rooms since tours run for seven days a week until September 29. 

Tourist Opportunities 

Lucky ticketholders who acted quickly enough after the announcement of the wing opening paid around £75 (or $97) for a 45-minute guided tour. This is a relatively expensive price for a tour, but of course, the rare sighting spiked prices. Travelers who got their ticket will be glad to know that the East Wing has undergone extensive renovation for over five years leading up to the opening. It is unclear whether or not there will be future dates for the East Wing tour. The Royal Collection Trust stated it would review the trial period before deciding about future public access. 

The East Wing tour was an exclusive experience so it sold out fast, but travelers will likely still flock to the palace. Fans of Buckingham Palace should book their tickets in advance if they plan to visit while the East Wing Tours are happening. Those wanting to visit can still book the state rooms tour that costs £32 (or $41).