buckingham palace tours september 2023

June 14, 2023

Buckingham Palace Summer Opening: A Guide to Visiting the Royal Residence

The Buckingham Palace Summer Opening 2023 will be from Friday, 14 July, to Sunday, 24 September. During the 10 weeks, visitors to Buckingham Palace will see the 19 magnificent State Rooms, which provide the setting for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining. All rooms are furnished with many of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection.

Buckingham Palace Summer Opening 2023

For 2023, the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace will feature outfits worn by Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the Coronation.

The clothing will form part of a special Coronation display staged in the Ballroom to celebrate the historic service held at Westminster Abbey on 6 May. The centrepiece of the display will be the outfits worn by Their Majesties as they departed from Westminster Abbey in the Gold State Coach and then appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony to greet the crowds. Shown alongside these will be a selection of the historic vestments worn by The King at the moment of crowning, including the Coronation Glove, Girdle (or Sword Belt) and Stole Royal.

Visitors to the Summer Opening of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace will also be able to see the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, which conveyed Their Majesties to Westminster Abbey for the Coronation and which will be on display in the Palace’s State Entrance.

For more information about the Summer Opening of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace and to book tickets, check out the website for the Royal Collection Trust .   This can be easily combined with our Royal London Tour to discover and learn about additional Royal places in London – The home of the British Monarchy!

Buckingham Palace Facts & Figures

Buckingham Palace is the working headquarters of the Monarchy, where The Queen carries out her official and ceremonial duties as Head of State of the United Kingdom and Head of the Commonwealth. The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh live in the private apartments on the north side of the Palace, while rooms on the upper floors of the north and east sides are occupied by other members of the Royal Family. Much of the ground floor and the south wing of the Palace are used by over 800 members of staff. Their jobs range from housekeeping to horticulture, catering to correspondence. Some of the more unusual jobs include fendersmith, clockmaker and flagman.

The site where Buckingham Palace now stands was originally a mulberry garden planted by King James I to rear silkworms. Unfortunately, he chose the wrong kind of mulberry bush, and silk production never took off in Britain. By 1628 a substantial house already existed on the site and in 1698 it was let to John Sheffield (later the Duke of Buckingham) who demolished the property and rebuilt it as ‘Buckingham House’. In 1761 George III acquired the site as a private residence and the house underwent considerable remodelling and modernising. Buckingham House was transformed into Buckingham Palace in the 1820s by the architect John Nash for George IV, but the first monarch to use Buckingham Palace as their official residence was Queen Victoria, who moved there in 1837. The white Portland stone facade was created in 1913 by Sir Aston Webb.

Buckingham Palace is 108 metres long across the front, 120 metres deep (including the central quadrangle) and 24 metres high. The Palace has 775 rooms, including 19 Staterooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms. There are 1,514 doors and 760 windows. All windows are cleaned every six weeks. The palace has its own chapel, post office, swimming pool, staff cafeteria, doctor’s surgery and cinema. There are more than 350 clocks and watches in Buckingham Palace, one of the largest collections of working clocks anywhere.

More than 50,000 people visit the Palace each year as guests to State banquets, lunches, dinners, receptions and Garden Parties. Her Majesty also holds weekly audiences with the Prime Minister and receives newly-appointed foreign Ambassadors at Buckingham Palace. In 2015, Her Majesty hosted a reception for players, organisers and supporters of the Rugby World Cup.

Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace’s garden covers 40 acres and includes a helicopter landing area, a lake, and a tennis court. It is home to 30 different species of bird and more than 350 different wildflowers, some extremely rare.

The first Garden Party at Buckingham Palace was held by Queen Victoria in the 1860s. Today, there are usually three Garden Parties at the Palace every summer, each attended by approximately 8,000 people, who consume 27,000 cups of tea, 20,000 sandwiches and 20,000 cakes.

In 2002, a music concert was staged in the garden of Buckingham Palace to mark The Queen’s Golden Jubilee, which included an unforgettable performance of ‘God Save The Queen’ by Brian May from the roof of the Palace and at Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012 members of the public were invited to have a special picnic in the Buckingham Palace garden.

Hundreds of distinguished historic figures have visited Buckingham Palace, including a seven-year-old Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Charles Dickens, American Presidents including JF Kennedy and Barack Obama, Mahatma Gandhi (who wore a loincloth and sandals to tea with King George V), Neil Armstrong and Nelson Mandela.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may also like

The Story Behind Royal Gun Salutes

Regular and Reserve British Army soldiers marked the seventieth anniversary of the Queen’s Accession to the Throne on Monday,  7th February, in London with a celebratory gun salute. The Queen ascended to the throne on 6th February 1952 but, when the day itself falls on a Sunday, as happened in 2022, the salute is not fired until the following day.

10 Royal Palaces & Homes In London

Six buildings in central London are royal palaces – but only three of these (Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, and Saint James’s Palace ) are still used as homes by members of the royal family. In addition, Clarence House is a royal home but not a royal palace. Three older palaces (Placentia Palace, Richmond Palace, and Nonsuch Palace) on the outskirts of London have now vanished except for memorial plaques while Windsor Castle, Hampton Court, and Kew Palace are intact and open to visitors. Windsor is the royal family’s oldest home, and where Saint George’s Chapel is the final resting place of many monarchs, including the late Queen Elizabeth I.

• A-Z of London
• APTG/Guide London
• Around London
• Beyond London
• British Military
• British Monarchy
• Cathedrals & Churches
• Christmas & New Year
• Film & Television
• Food & Drink
• Major Events

Major London Sites

• Museums & Galleries

London Canary Wharf & Docklands Tour

Explore Canary Wharf, a vibrant city within a city and a stunning regeneration of London’s historic dockyards

A London Canary Wharf & Docklands Tour is…

VIEW TOUR NOW

Sign up to our newsletter to receive the latest news, events and offers from London.

Would you like to receive our newsletter?

Guide London

Top Sight Tours Group

Buckingham Palace Tour and Afternoon Tea

Tour start time: 14 july to 24 september – mondays, thursdays, fridays, saturdays & sundays 10:45am, what we will see & where we will be.

This is a combo experience with entry to Buckingham Place and a relaxing afternoon tea bus tour going through London’s iconic landmarks.

Buckingham Palace

The grand and iconic London residence of His Majesty the King is an absolute must-see on any visit to London. A fully working royal palace, housing not only The King, but serving as the administrative headquarters of the Royal Household.

The 19 State Rooms are exquisitely furnished with fine examples of French and English antique furniture and display some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including works by Rubens, Canaletto and Rembrandt, sculpture by Canova and porcelain by Sèvres.

The Gardens of Buckingham Palace, often called the ‘walled oasis in the middle of London’, are a true sight to behold. They are home to 30 different species of bird and over 350 different wild flowers – there is plenty to see and enjoy.

Afternoon Tea Bus

This tour is unescorted and after your visit to Buckingham Palace, you will make your own way to Waterloo at about 3pm for a unique afternoon tea bus experience.

You will be greeted with a glass of Prosecco wine or soft drink at the beginning of the bus tour. The afternoon tea consists of a choice of tea, together with a selection of finger sandwiches, scones served with clotted cream and preserves, and small tea cakes.

While indulging in delicious tea and treats, you will also admire London’s iconic landmarks from the bus.

Know before you go

What’s included :

• Admission to Buckingham Palace with audio guide
• A fternoon tea bus tour
• A choice of tea
• A selection of delightful savouries and sweets 

What’s excluded :

Please bring with you

• Comfy walking shoes
• Bottled water

Please note :

• In 2023, Buckingham Palace opens to visitors from 14 July to 24 September only.
• Children under 5 are not allowed on this tour.
• As this tour is unescorted, after visiting Buckingham Palace you will need to make your own way to Bullied Way for afternoon tea.
• Once booked, tour cannot be cancelled.
• Departure time of Afternoon Tea Bus 3:15pm , d uration approx. 90 mins.
• The bus route is subject to change due to road closures and traffic conditions.
• Tables will be shared with other guests.
• Some of the dishes on the menus may be subject to change.
• We cannot guarantee that all foods are not in contact with nuts.
• Alcohol will only be served to those aged 18 and over – valid ID will be required.
• Dietary requirements such as Vegan and Gluten Free meals must be requested at least 96 hours before the whole experience starts. If no requests are made, the traditional (non-vegetarian) option will be provided.

Where we meet

Once you have booked, we will send you a confirmation email with all the details of how, where and who to meet on the day of your tour.

Tour Highlights

• Explore the royal residence Buckingham Palace including the Garden
• Venture inside exquisitely furnished State Rooms
• Admire works of art from Royal Collection
• Multimedia audio guides included in the admission
• Relaxing afternoon tea bus tour
• Selection of delicious savouries and sweets
• Take in London’s iconic landmarks from the bus

Similar London Tours

See over 30 top london sights fun local guide.

This is a fun London walking tour where you will see the top 30 London Attractions & hear about thei ...

J K Rowling Wizard Walking Private Tour & River Cruise

Discover JK Rowling's London with your own Potterhead guide, including film locations, inspiring lan ...

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey

Since the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066, all coronations of English and British monarc ...

Eat 8 English Foods & See 30+ London Sights Walking Tour!

See the top 30 London landmarks then head to Borough Market to enjoy the best of British food! ...

London Wizard Tour and Ghost Bus Combo Package

An afternoon of magical wizarding sights. An evening of spooky interactive fun aboard the infamous G ...

Wizard Sights and Ghosts of London Combo Tour

Explore JK Rowling's inspirations and wizard film locations in the afternoon, then set off on London ...

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

We will see 20 of London's most iconic sights in a 3-hour historic walking tour! After the walking t ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour and Jack the Ripper Combo Tour

Visit film locations and sights that inspired JK Rowling's famous wizard! Then explore the dark stre ...

London Wizard Tour with Madame Tussauds Tickets

See the London sights that inspired JK Rowling and over 10 real film location, then meet the world's ...

Wizard Walking Tour with The Shard Viewpoint

Visit film locations and sights that inspired JK Rowling's famous wizard! Then cap it off with an un ...

Wizard Sights and Shrek’s Adventure Combo Tour

This fun-packed combo tour is ideal for kids! Explore London's wizarding sights and film locations, ...

Wizard Walking Tour with London Bridge Tombs Experience

Explore JK Rowling's London with 10+ actual film locations, then descend to the hidden Tombs of Lond ...

Thames River Cruise & Westminster 3-Hour Private Tour

Take a cruise along the River Thames after exploring the top sights of Westminster with your own per ...

Live Magic Wizarding Sights Tour with a Top Magician (Private)

Join your own amazing personal magician for a wizarding tour with a difference - film locations and ...

London : 2 Day Tour. See & Do Everything !

This is the ultimate 2-day tour of London. Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Harry Potter & Jack T ...

Best of London Walking Tour with Tower of London & Tower Bridge!

Discover over 30 world-famous London landmarks then head inside the iconic Tower of London and Tower ...

Climb The O2 Arena & Best of Westminster Tour

See over 20 of London's top landmarks in Westminster, then head over to the O2 for a thrilling climb ...

Full Royal Private Tour: Royal London & Buckingham Palace Entry

Discover over 15 top attractions in Royal London with a personalized walking tour, followed by an ex ...

Wizard Walking Tour with The London Eye

Discover top film locations and several sites that inspired JK Rowling's famous wizard and enjoy inc ...

The London Top Sights Tour. Kids Free!

See 30+ London landmarks on one incredible walking tour, and learn the history, culture, and legends ...

Wizard Walking Tour with St Paul’s Cathedral Entry

Explores iconic Harry Potter movie locations, including Platform 9¾ and the Leaky Cauldron, then vi ...

Wizard Walking Tour with London Dungeons Experience

Explore London's wizard locations and JK Rowling's inspired buildings on a guided walking tour. Then ...

Wizard Walking Tour with Clink Prison Entry

Discover over 10 wizard movie locations that inspired JK Rowling. Then visit the historic Clink Pris ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour, Tower of London & River Cruise

Discover the magic of London with a wizarding walking tour to see enchanting sites inspired by JK Ro ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour, St Paul’s Cathedral & River Cruise

Explore 10 movie locations and JK Rowling-inspired sites, including St. Paul's Cathedral for panoram ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour, River Cruise & London Eye

Explore on a journey through over 10 Wizarding world movie locations of JK Rowling, cruise along the ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour, Clink Prison Museum & River Cruise

Explore JK Rowling Wizard-inspired London sites, visit the Clink Prison Museum, and enjoy scenic vie ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour & Cursed Child Theatre

Discover Jk Rowling wizard world locations and see buildings that inspired the books on a guided wal ...

JK Rowling Wizard Tour & Magical Afternoon Tea

This tour explores famous wizarding movie set locations in London and ends with a magical Afternoon ...

The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Walking Tour

Get the best (and highest!) view in London from The Shard after exploring the top sights of Westmins ...

Lights & Sights Of London: 30+ London Top Sights At Dusk!

An evening walking tour of London's lights - the best way to see London at night! The London's light ...

Private Night Time Taxi Tour

See 30+ London sights beautifully lit against the night sky from the comfort of a Black Cab ...

Harry Potter Taxi Tour

Fly through London’s wizarding world & Potter film locations in an iconic Black Cab ...

Private Harry Potter Taxi Tour

Whizz through the wizarding world & Potter film locations on an iconic Black Cab Private Tour ...

Private Harry Potter Taxi Tour & Clink Prison Entry

Fly through the London's wizarding worlds real filming locations in an iconic Black Cab, then visit ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & Thames River Cruise

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then take a cruise along the River Thames ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & London Eye Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then enjoy a ride on the London Eye! ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & St Paul’s Cathedral Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then visit St Paul's Cathedral ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & Tower of London Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then visit The Tower of London ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & Kensington Palace Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then visit Kensington Palace ...

Private London Sightseeing Taxi Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

See 50+ London sights from the comfort of a Black Cab then visit the historic Westminster Abbey ...

Private London 50+ Sights Taxi Tour & Churchill War Rooms Entry

Discover 50+ top London sights from the comfort of your own Private Black Cab, then explore WW2 hist ...

Private Harry Potter Taxi Tour & Potions Making Class

Whizz through the wizarding world & Potter film locations on an iconic Black Cab Private Tour, then ...

Harry Potter Taxi Tour & Potions Making Class

Fly through London’s wizarding world & Potter film locations in an iconic Black Cab, then try your ...

British Royalty Tour Private Walking Tour

Experience over 20 London royal landmarks with a private guide and learn all about the British Monar ...

Wizard Walking Tour with Tower Bridge Entry

Visit film locations and sights that inspired JK Rowling's famous wizard! Then visit famous Tower Br ...

London 30+ Top Sights Tour & Kensington Palace Entry

Join an expert guide to see the best of the Westminster & London Bridge areas, then enter famous Ken ...

Top Westminster Walking Tour with Tower of London & Tower Bridge!

Join an fun local guide to see 20+ of London's famous landmarks, then explore inside Tower of London ...

Afternoon Tea at Kensington Palace

Experience the original Royal English Tea with traditional sandwiches, cakes & scones in the grounds ...

St Pauls Cathedral & See Over 30 Top London Sights – Private Tour

See over 30 London sights with an awesome private guide, then enter the incredible St Paul's Cathedr ...

Go Up The Shard & London Landmark Walking Tour (Private)

See over 30 top London sights with a private guide, then get the best view in the city from the top ...

Explore Tower Bridge & London’s Best Landmarks Tour (Private)

Explore 30+ top London landmarks with a private guide and go inside the iconic Tower Bridge! ...

Private Westminster Tour & Visit Westminster Abbey & Churchill War Rooms

See over 20 of London's most iconic sights and visit Westminster Abbey & Churchill War Rooms ...

Visit Kew Gardens & 3 Hour Westminster Private Walking Tour

See over 15 of London's most iconic sights in a 3-hour private walking tour, then explore the stunni ...

Westminster Private Walking Tour & Visit The Tower of London

See Buckingham Palace, Big Ben & 20+ other top sights before entering the infamous Tower of London! ...

Westminster Private Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket

See the top Westminster sights on a fun private 3-hour London walking tour, then enjoy a ride on the ...

Westminster 3-Hour Private Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

See 20+ of London's most iconic sights in a private 3-hour tour, then enter the incredible Churchill ...

Visit Kensington Palace & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour (Private)

Explore the famous landmarks of Westminster with a private guide, then visit Kensington Palace - off ...

The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Private Walking Tour

Join us on a fun 3 hour private walking tour and see the top 20 Attractions in Westminster, and go u ...

St Pauls Cathedral & Westminster Private Walking Tour

Enter London's famous cathedral after seeing the Westminster Area with a private guide - see Bucking ...

Sherlock Holmes Museum & Westminster Walking Tour (Private Tour)

Explore the iconic sights of Westminster with your own private guide, then immerse yourself in the w ...

Westminster 3 Hour Private Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey

We will see over 20 of London’s most iconic sights in this historic walking tour! After the walkin ...

Explore Tower Bridge & Westminster Private Walking Tour

Go inside the iconic Tower Bridge after seeing 20+ top Westminster sights with your own private guid ...

London Private Tour: Changing of the Guard & Westminster Abbey

Join a 3-hour historic walking tour to explore over 20 of London’s iconic landmarks, followed by a ...

Westminster Walking Tour & London Dungeon Entry (Private Tour)

Delve into London's creepiest attraction after enjoying the iconic sights of London's Westminster wi ...

Wonderful Westminster & Windsor (Walking Tour & Visit Windsor Castle) Private Tour

Discover London's most famous sights on a top-rated private 3-hour Westminster Walking Tour, then tr ...

London Private Tour: Buckingham Palace & Big Ben & Westminster Abbey

See over 20 of London’s most iconic sights on a private historic walking tour, then enter Westmins ...

Private Tour : 3 Amazing London Art Galleries 1 tour 1 guide

See the best of the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery & Tate Modern in one incredible tour ...

The Houses of Parliament & London Main Sights Tour

One of the most complete London Walking Tours. You will see everything and then visit the home of Br ...

Visit The Houses of Parliament & 3 Hour Private Westminster Walking Tour

See the iconic sights of London's Westminster with your own private guide, then explore the famous H ...

Visit Kew Gardens & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour

You will see 20+ of London’s most iconic sights a 3-hour historic walking tour, then visit the stu ...

Visit St Paul’s Cathedral & Westminster Walking Tour

Step inside Britain's most famous cathedral - the magnificent St Paul's - and explore the best sight ...

Paddington Bear Walking Tour of London

Join this fun walking tour to explore the streets of London and follow in Paddington's pawprints! ...

London: Buckingham Palace, Big Ben & Westminster Abbey

See Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the other top sights of Westminster, then enter the incredible W ...

Charles Dickens Museum Entrance Ticket

Discover the incredible story of Charles Dickens' life while you roam around his vintage home in Lon ...

Sherlock Holmes Museum & Westminster Highlights Walking Tour

Discover the iconic sights of Westminster with a fun London guide, then step into the world of Brita ...

Amazing London: See The Top 30 Landmarks

Join the best walking tour in London, see 30 Top Landmarks & learn their history from a fun local gu ...

Explore Tower Bridge & Westminster Walking Tour

Explore the famous sights of Westminster with a fun local guide before entering the magnificent Towe ...

Inside Buckingham Palace & Westminster Highlights Walking Tour

Step into world-famous Buckingham Palace after seeing the very best of Westminster with an entertain ...

Westminster 3-hour Walking Tour & London Dungeon Entry

The authentic british food tour.

Discover two of the most loved areas of London, offering the most delicious and best variety of food ...

Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace

Wimbledon lawn tennis museum entrance ticket.

Visit the largest tennis museum in the world to explore the rich history of The Championships, and s ...

The Foundling Museum Entrance Ticket

The Foundling Museum, one of London's most interesting museums, includes art collection and 18th-cen ...

Royal Albert Hall Tour Entrance Ticket

Discover Britain's most famous and spectacular performance venue - the Royal Albert Hall. Includes a ...

Chelsea Physic Garden Entrance Ticket

Chelsea Physic Garden is a botanical gem, nestled in the heart of London, England, since 1673. ...

Westminster Walking Tour & Visit The Tower of London

Discover 20+ top sights of London in Westminster, then enter the famous Tower of London for some inc ...

Westminster Walking Tour & London Eye Ticket

See the top Westminster Sights on a fun 3-hour London walking tour, then enjoy a ride on the London ...

London Tour with Changing of the Guard & Westminster Abbey

Visit over 20 of London’s most iconic sights in a 3-hour historic walking tour, then enter Westmin ...

Visit The Houses of Parliament & 3 Hour Westminster Walking Tour

See the iconic sights of London's Westminster with a fun local guide, then explore the famous Houses ...

Wonderful Westminster & Windsor (Walking Tour & Visit Windsor Castle)

Discover London's most famous sights on a fun 3-hour Westminster Walking Tour, then travel to the am ...

Wimbledon Tennis & Westminster Landmarks Walking Tour

See the top sights of Westminster in 3 hours before visiting the iconic Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Club! ...

Visit The Clink Prison & Westminster Highlights Walking Tour

This is a fun 3 hour walking tour where you will visit the UKs oldest Prison : The Clink! ...

3 hour Westminster Sights Tour & Go On-Board HMS Belfast

This is a fun 3 walking tour of London where you will go on board a WW2 Battleship that saw action i ...

Top London Sights Tour with Westminster Abbey and The Churchill War Rooms

We will see more than 20 of London's most iconic sights and visit two of London’s most iconic attr ...

London’s Amazing Palaces & Parliament Walking Tour

This is a guided London walking tour of Westminster. You will see the main Top London Attractions in ...

Full Royal Tour: Royal London & Buckingham Palace Tour

Visit Buckingham Palace See 15+ Royal London Sights. Fun local guide ...

J K Rowling & Wizard Walking Tour

Join our top J K Rowling & Wizard Walking Tour of London, with over 10 real film locations! Children ...

British Royalty 3 Hour Walking Tour!

We will see 10+ most iconic sights of The British Monarchy in a 3 hour walking tour, with a chance t ...

Buckingham Palace Tours 2024

A guided tour of buckingham palace offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the royal residence with expert insights and fascinating stories..

Buckingham Palace tours provide an in-depth look at the palace's rich history, stunning architecture, and the treasures of the Royal Collection. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the British monarchy and the regal splendor that defines Buckingham Palace.

Exploring Buckingham Palace on a guided tour is one of the best ways to fully appreciate the grandeur and history of the British monarchy's official residence. These tours provide visitors with expert insights into the palace's rich heritage, stunning architecture, and the treasures of the Royal Collection. In this article, we'll delve into the benefits of guided tours, the different options available, and what you can expect from this royal experience.

Why Choose a Guided Tour?

A guided tour offers several advantages that enhance your visit to Buckingham Palace:

• Expert Knowledge: Guides provide in-depth information about the history, architecture, and significance of various rooms and artworks. Their stories and anecdotes bring the palace to life, offering a richer understanding of its past and present.
• Personalised Experience: Guides can answer questions and tailor the experience to your interests, ensuring a more personalized and engaging visit.
• Efficient Exploration: With a guide, you can navigate the palace more efficiently, ensuring you don't miss any of the key highlights.

Types of Guided Tours

There are several guided tour options available at Buckingham Palace, catering to different interests and schedules:

Standard Guided Tour

The standard guided tour covers the main attractions within Buckingham Palace, including the State Rooms , the Throne Room, and the Picture Gallery. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors looking to get a comprehensive overview of the palace's key highlights.

Exclusive Evening Tour

For a more intimate and exclusive experience, consider booking an evening tour. These tours take place after the palace has closed to the public, allowing you to explore the State Rooms in a quieter, more relaxed setting. The evening tours often include special insights and stories not covered in the standard tours.

Garden Tour

The Garden Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the 39-acre gardens of Buckingham Palace . Led by expert guides, this tour provides insights into the history and design of the gardens, as well as the flora and fauna that thrive there. It's a perfect option for nature enthusiasts and those interested in horticulture.

Family Tour

Designed with younger visitors in mind, the Family Tour includes interactive elements and engaging stories to keep children entertained and informed. These tours are shorter and more dynamic, making them ideal for families with kids.

The State Rooms

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...

Tips for a Great Tour Experience

• Book in Advance: Guided tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. Book your tickets early to secure your preferred date and time.
• Arrive Early: Arriving at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time will give you a chance to check in and prepare for the tour.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you will be walking and standing for an extended period.
• Listen and Engage: Make the most of your tour by listening carefully to the guide and asking questions. Guides are knowledgeable and can provide valuable insights beyond the standard commentary.
• Respect the Rules: Follow the guidelines provided by your guide, especially regarding photography and restricted areas.

A guided tour of Buckingham Palace is an enriching experience that offers a deeper understanding of this iconic royal residence. With expert guides leading the way, you'll explore the palace's magnificent rooms, learn about its rich history, and gain exclusive insights into the British monarchy. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about royal life, a guided tour will provide you with unforgettable memories and a greater appreciation for this historic landmark. For more information and to book your tour, visit the official Royal Collection Trust website. Enjoy your royal adventure!

Similar Attractions

St. Paul's Cathedral

A Journey Through History and Splendor

Hampton Court Palace

Embark on a royal adventure at Hampton Court Palace, where...

Kensington Palace

Where Royal Heritage Shines with Elegance

The Kings Gallery

Opened in 1962, the gallery hosts rotating exhibitions that showcase masterpieces from the extensive royal art...

The Royal Mews

The Royal Mews is one of the premium stables in the world. Providing the King with carriage horses and responsible for...

Buckingham Palace Gardens

A visit to the Buckingham Palace gardens offers a unique opportunity to explore one of London’s hidden gems. From the...

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, buckingham palace.

Protect Your Trip »

The 5 best sightseeing tours of buckingham palace.

See one of Britain's top attractions on a walking, biking, bus or private taxi tour.

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Getty Images

On a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Check online for a current schedule of the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area, while sharing knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13 Duration: 2 to 3 hours Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the Victoria Palace Theatre. The outings end at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

Check prices & availability on:

Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Tour

Price: From $161 Duration: 8.5 hours Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle.

Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines.

The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m.

Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection. The ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

Best of London Tour Including Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

Price: From $144; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee Duration: 9 hours Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here, you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

London: Explore the Parks and Palaces on a Morning Bike Tour

Price: From $37 Duration: 3.5 hours Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were impressed by the guides' knowledge. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $482 Duration: 4 hours Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer based in London. She grew up just outside the city and worked around the corner from Buckingham Palace for several years. She loves exploring the surrounding area, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in London
• The Best Harry Potter Tours in London
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

The Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Tags: Travel , Tours

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best pearl harbor tours.

Amanda Norcross Sept. 19, 2024

Top All-Inclusive Cancun Family Resorts

Amanda Norcross Sept. 18, 2024

The Best Stonehenge Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon and Ann Henson Sept. 18, 2024

Best Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Sept. 17, 2024

The Best Eiffel Tower Tours

Kristy Alpert Sept. 17, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Ohio

Gwen Pratesi and Heather Rader Sept. 17, 2024

The Top River Cruise Lines

Nicola Wood and Brittany Chrusciel Sept. 17, 2024

The 27 Most Haunted Hotels in America

Alissa Grisler Sept. 16, 2024

Top Indoor Water Park Resorts

Holly Johnson and Amanda Norcross Sept. 16, 2024

Adults-Only All-Inclusive Mexico Resorts

Sept. 13, 2024

RELATED LINKS

On this page, most popular sights, tickets & sightseeing passes, things to see and do, from our blog.

OPEN TOP SIGHTSEEING BUSES

London tours, popular tours from london, free self-guided walks.

• Guide to hotel areas
• Bed & breakfast
• Backpacker hostels
• Airbnb London
• Central London tours
• Tours from London
• Hop-on hop-off bus tours
• Harry Potter tours
• Stonehenge tours
• Downton Abbey tours
• Windsor tours
• Cotswolds tours
• Private tours
• Ticket & pass offers
• Central London attractions
• Attractions outside London
• Harry Potter attractions
• Tower of London
• PUBLIC TRANSPORT
• London City
• London Southend
• Southampton

Buckingham Palace tours, Changing of the Guard

State rooms and palace gardens opening - a visitor's guide.

Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of Britain's sovereigns since 1837. Buckingham Palace is one of the few working palaces remaining in the world today.

The fabulous residence of His Majesty The King is for many a must-visit destination on any visit to London. However the Palace is not open all year round - to come up close to fabulous works by Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto as well as the 19 exquisitely furnished State Rooms, you need to book tickets for the summer tours, available from the end of July to late September.

Buckingham Palace tickets 2024 - available now

Included in your ticket is access to Buckingham Palace Gardens, which opened for the first time in 2021.

You also have the opportunity to extend your day with a visit to the Royal Mews (open March - October).

If you find yourself in London outside the summer months, The King's Gallery is open year round and offers the chance to see a changing exhibition of items from the Royal Collection.

If you do not wish to enter inside the Palace but simply wish to see the spectacle of the Changing of the Guard , we discuss on this page.

For a really alternative traditional English experience, why not combine Buckingham Palace tickets with a 1950s classic Routemaster bus and river cruise ?

Want even more Royal days out in London? See our page Royal Palaces and Castles in London for highlights of the best.

BOOK Buckingham Palace 2024 tickets   Palace opening times 2024   What will I see?   Location   Royal Mews - BOOK TICKETS   King's Gallery - BOOK TICKETS   Changing of the Guard   Tour: Windsor Castle & Buckingham Palace   Royal themed tours in London   Other royal palaces

BUCKINGHAM PALACE TICKETS 2024

Book tickets for Buckingham Palace - only available late July to September

With option to add on Royal Mews

• The State Rooms • The Royal Collection • Paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto • Audio tour included • Famous 42-acre Buckingham Palace Gardens

Buckingham Palace opening times 2024

Buckingham Palace summer tours

Buckingham Palace is open every Monday and Thursday - Sunday from 15th July - 29th September 2024.

Entry works on a timed admission system, which is the time you select when purchasing your ticket. You should arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before the entry time on your ticket.

Alternative Buckingham Palace options rest of the year

The King's Gallery is a permanent space dedicated to changing exhibitions of items from the Royal Collection and is open year round.

The fantastic spectacle that is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is another choice if you are in London outside the summer months.

The  Royal Mews  (the working stables for the royalty) is open for a longer period than the palace itself - from March to October.

Buckingham Palace - what will I see?

Buckingham Palace is a fully working royal palace, housing not only The King, but serving as the administrative headquarters of the Royal Household. It should be stressed for visitors that Buckingham Palace is very much a working palace, despite its undoubted treasures inside, access is very limited.

State Rooms

The 19 State Rooms are exquisitely furnished with fine examples of French and English antique furniture and display some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including works by Rubens, Canaletto and Rembrandt, sculpture by Canova and porcelain by Sèvres.

Buckingham Palace Gardens

Often called the ‘walled oasis in the middle of London', the gardens of Buckingham Palace are a true sight to behold. Home to 30 different species of bird and over 350 different wild flowers, there is plenty to see and enjoy. Visitors finish their tour with a walk along the south side of the garden, taking in views of the famous lake and the west front of the palace.

Audio guides

Your ticket includes an audio guide available in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Russian and Brazilian Portuguese.

How to get to Buckingham Palace

Location of the palace

Buckingham Palace is situated within the Royal Parks of St James and Green Park . Westminster and Trafalgar Square are a pleasant walk across St James Park and its delightful lake. Westminster Abbey , Big Ben, Mansion House, Churchill's War Rooms, Trafalgar Square, 10 Downing Street and the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery are all within 10 minutes' walk.

Nearest underground station

Victoria Underground & Railway Station (Circle, District and Victoria Lines) is 5-10 minutes' walk passing the Royal Mews. A much more pleasant walk is from Westminster across St James Park, about 10-15 minutes from Westminster Abbey. You can also walk to Buckingham Palace from Hyde Park Corner or Green Park Underground Stations (both Piccadilly Lines) in 5 to 10 minutes.

Hop-on, hop-off buses and Thames river services

All of London's hop on, hop off sightseeing buses stop at Buckingham Palace. However, immediately after the Changing of the Guard you are best advised to walk to Victoria or Trafalgar Square as waiting times to board a bus with seats available will be long.

Worth knowing...

There are several changing of the guard ceremonies besides that at Buckingham Palace. Changing of the Guards at Horse Guards is popular with much less crowds and if you visit Windsor Castle you'll see changing of the guard there too at much closer quarters than Buckingham Palace.

Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace

The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace is the working stables for the royalty. You will see displays of carriages and cars used for ceremonial and state occasions there. A typical visit lasts 1 hour.

State vehicles are housed and maintained at the Royal Mews. They include the carriages used for royal and State occasions, such as State Visits, weddings and the State Opening of Parliament.

Carriages from the Royal Mews are also used on roughly 50 occasions each year to convey newly appointed High Commissioners and Ambassadors from their official residence to Buckingham Palace.

The Royal Mews are at the southern end of the Buckingham Palace complex mid-way along Buckingham Palace Road that connects Victoria Station and the front gates of Buckingham Palace.

The Royal Mews is open from March to October.

Book tickets for the Royal Mews

The King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace (previously the Queen's Gallery)

The King's Gallery was opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in May 2002, as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations. It hosts a programme of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. You will see a wide-ranging collection of art and treasures held in trust by Monarchy for the Nation.

A typical visit will last about 90 minutes and admission includes an audio tour device.

The King's Gallery is along Buckingham Palace Road that connects Victoria Station and the front gates of Buckingham Palace between the Royal Mews and the palace.

The King's Gallery is open to the public throughout the year.

Book tickets for the King's Gallery

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

What most people come to Buckingham Palace for, is the Changing of the Guard staged by the front entrance from 10.45am (actual handover at 11am). Daily during peak summer months (May to July) then every other day at other times.

Known as Changing the Guard or Guard Mounting, the process involves a new guard exchanging duty with the old guard. The soldiers are drawn from one of the five regiments of Foot Guards in the British Army: the Scots Guards, the Irish Guards, the Welsh Guards, the Grenadier Guards and the Coldstream Guards.

The handover is accompanied by a Guards band. The music played ranges from traditional military marches to songs from the shows and even familiar pop songs.

If the Monarch is in residence, there are four sentries at the front of the building, if away there are two.

To be honest many people are disappointed by this, the crowds also make it difficult to get decent photographs. There is no 'performance' if it rains. You may find it more enjoyable to go over the other side of St James Park to Whitehall where another Changing of the Guard takes place.

Changing of the Guards - Horse Guards

Changing of the Guard at Horse Guards takes place daily at 11am (10am on Sundays) and lasts about half an hour here. Here there are less crowds and no palace railings in your way of good photographs. You are also much, much closer to the Guards themselves and photo opportunities are far superior.

Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace tours - and Changing of the Guard

There are two different tours visiting Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle - one includes entry to both, the other to Windsor Castle only. Buckingham Palace is open for two months only during the summer from July to September. If you are not in London during this time, or do not wish to visit inside Buckingham Palace, The Royal London and Royal Windsor tour might be just the tour for you.

Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Tour

Tour available during summer months July - September only:

Experience two of Britain's finest Royal residences on this fantastic full-day tour to Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. Get a rare glimpse inside the King of England's official residence at Buckingham Palace before heading to the largest, continuously occupied castle in Europe and ancestral home of the monarchy at Windsor Castle .

Royal London and Royal Windsor Tour

The Royal London & Windsor tour is available from April - December, and includes the Changing of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace (on selected days).

You will enjoy a panoramic drive through London with your expert tour guide, hearing interesting stories and facts about London's long history. Through the city of Westminster, you will see all of London's most iconic sights, including Westminster Abbey, the iconic Elizabeth Tower, also known as 'Big Ben' and much, much more.

In the afternoon you'll visit the historic town of Windsor, set in a glorious riverside location famous for its links to the British crown. Wander through the cobbled streets and browse the quaint tea rooms and shopping arcades.

WINDSOR CASTLE AND BUCKINGHAM PALACE FROM LONDON

Windsor Castle & Buckingham Palace - available end July - end September

• Entry to Windsor Castle • Entry to Buckingham Palace • Professional guide • Luxury air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi • London in Your Pocket app access

ROYAL LONDON & ROYAL WINDSOR - DAY TOUR FROM LONDON

Day tour visiting Royal London attractions and Windsor Castle

• Royal London Tour • Royal Windsor Tour • Entrance to Windsor Castle • See Changing of the Guard - subject to day

Other Royal themed tours in London

There are lots of Royal-themed tours on offer in London. Options range from fantastic panoramic coach tours to in-depth walking tours with knowledgeable guides.

Either way you'll learn a lot about the Royal Family and classic Royal attractions in London. These tours are becoming very popular so get booked up quickly.

For the ultimate in luxury there are a couple of afternon tea options for you : enjoy the fantastic Royal London coach tour together with a luxurious Afternoon Tea at the Cellarium Café & Terrace, Westminster Abbey , or Rubens at the Palace (located with fantastic views over the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace).

ROYAL LONDON COACH TOUR

• Royal London panoramic coach tour • Changing of the Guard Ceremony • Option to add on Thames River Cruise • Option to add on Afternoon Tea at Rubens at The Palace

ROYAL LONDON TOUR WITH WESTMINSTER ABBEY ENTRANCE & AFTERNOON TEA

Half Day Coach Tour - Royal London Tour with Westminster Abbey & Afternoon Tea

• Royal London tour • Admission to Westminster Abbey •  Expert Blue Badge Guide • VOX personal headsets • Afternoon Tea at the Cellarium Café & Terrace

WIZARD WALKS & ROYALTY AND LANDMARKS TOUR

• Wizard Walks guided walking tour • Royalty & Landmarks guided walking tour • Option to add on Hop-on bus ticket • Option to add on Poppie's fish & chips

ROYAL LONDON PRIVATE COACH TOUR

• See London's iconic landmarks including the Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace and much more • Watch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony • Live commentary throughout your journey in a private luxury vehicle

Other royal palaces in London

Tower of London: Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066-7 and enlarged and modified by successive sovereigns, today the Tower of London is one of the world's most famous and spectacular fortresses. In its time it has been a royal palace, a fortress, a prison, an armoury, a treasury and an astronomical observatory. The Tower of London now displays the Crown Jewels.

Kensington Palace: A rich royal history. Kensington Palace can boast of being the birth place of Queen Victoria and the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Kensington is the home of a host of Georgian monarchs and royalty including Princess Diana who have all left their mark on this impressive Palace. Explore the vast state apartments which contain an array of beautiful paintings and sculptures.

Windsor Castle: Windsor Castle is one of three official residences of The King and has been home to the Sovereign for over 900 years. The King would call Windsor Castle his home.

The castle is the largest inhabited castle in the world and the oldest in continuous occupation. The imposing towers and battlements of the castle loom large from every approach to the town, creating one of the world's most spectacular skylines.

Hampton Court: For almost 200 years, Hampton Court Palace was at the centre of English court life, politics and national history. Its most infamous resident was Henry VIII.

Today Hampton Court is an easy day trip for all visitors to London in vast grounds next to the River Thames.

Kew Palace (with Kew Gardens)  Open from March - September, Kew Palace, once the home of George III and Queen Charlotte, requires a valid ticket for Kew Gardens to enter. See the Great Pagoda (which can be climbed with a separate ticket), Queen Charlotte's Cottage and the Palace itself with Royal Kitchens.

POPULAR LONDON ATTRACTIONS - ADVANCE PURCHASE AND/OR FAST TRACK TICKETS

Royal london.

The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour

Fancy yourself as Royalty as you tour the State Rooms, Throne Room and Royal Collection.

Max 20 Guests

Subscribe for New tours

All our destinations.

Guide: Touring Buckingham Palace

My son Augustine requested two activities during our two days in London: visit Buckingham Palace and the British Museum. We did both in a single half-day. This post will highlight the logistics of touring Buckingham Palace with a family.

Touring Buckingham Palace – Our Experience

Buckingham Palace is open to tours 10 weeks each summer; this year from Friday, 14 July to Sunday, 24 September 2023 (it is open occasionally in the winter and spring for guided tours). Tickets range from £16.50 to £33.00 each (children under five are free):

Families can save £25.00 by booking online in advance (at least one adult and two children booked together). Just tabulate the total based upon the chart above and deduct £25.00.

We showed up at the Visitor’s Entrance on the south side of the property (we took the Underground to Green Park and walked to the palace) at the queue time indicated on our ticket and were ushered right in. If you are a little early, you will have to wait (and if you are late, you may be turned away, though we saw some people allowed in despite being 25 minutes late). This is also where you can buy same-day tickets, subject to availability.

Once inside, you must first pass through an airport-style security checkpoint and then pick up an audio guide. Items like umbrellas or large bags are taken here with instructions to pick them up as you exit to the garden.

Photography is not allowed inside and I did not try to sneak any pictures. The palace offers a superb collection of artwork and brightly-colored rooms that seem to have inspired similar designs and styles in the US White House. You will visit:

• White Drawing Room
• Throne Room
• Picture Gallery

(Pictures and virtual tour here , if interested)

The palace gardens were carefully cultivated during the reign of King George VI and serve as the venue for Palace Garden parties each year meant to honor “ordinary” citizens who contribute to society. You can visit these as well by adding on a garden tour for about £12.00 for adults.

On the way out, you can convert your ticket into a one-year pass, by classifying it as a donation (that apparently carries some tax benefits for the Royal Trust). There’s an area via the garden near the exit where you can stamp the ticket. Then just present the ticket upon your return for complimentary entrance.

I appreciated the audio tour and artwork and very much appreciated the special coronation exhibit in the ballroom which had elements of the coronation including the attire worn by the King and Queen and the embroidered screen behind which Charles was anointed.

While I was a bit worried about how the kids would do, they actually did just fine and my son very much enjoyed the visit.

This is part of my summer to Europe trip report .

Get Daily Updates

Join our mailing list for a daily summary of posts! We never sell your info.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

About author.

Matthew Klint

Matthew is an avid traveler who calls Los Angeles home. Each year he travels more than 200,000 miles by air and has visited more than 135 countries. Working both in the aviation industry and as a travel consultant, Matthew has been featured in major media outlets around the world and uses his Live and Let's Fly blog to share the latest news in the airline industry, commentary on frequent flyer programs, and detailed reports of his worldwide travel.

Related Posts

How To Avoid The Crowds In Angkor Wat

Is Siem Reap, Cambodia A Tourist Trap?

Introduction: A First Class Trip Of A Lifetime To Bhutan And Other Points In Asia

You know I never give you a hard time for a misspelling or an omission here and there, nobody’s perfect… You may want to give this a re-read. Some of your most useful points are unclear, and this could be a very useful article for a family visiting London.

A nice post. Your best posts of late have been things the average person would do and try and from a good perspective.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Interior Tour of Buckingham Palace with Royal Walking Tour - Limited Time Availability!

• Fall in love with the most regal sights and discover everything there is to know about the history of the Royal Family as you walk down the Mall, discover St James’s Palace and wander through St James’s Park.
• Showcasing the inside of Buckingham Palace - a rarity that most people will never experience - this tour gives you the chance to see the State Rooms, admire the treasures of the Royal Collection and lust over exquisite furniture!
• With an expert guide accompanying you, an audio headset when necessary and skip-the-line access , you’ll be straight in to experience the best of the monarchy during the two month window when the King gives a royal welcome inside the palace!

Tour Description

What's included.

• Expert local guide who will lead you on a guided walking tour prior to your Palace entry
• Entrance ticket for Buckingham Palace
• Audio guide for Buckingham Palace
• Headsets where appropriate so you can always hear your guide

Sites Visited

• Buckingham Palace (inside)
• St James's Park
• St James's Palace

No visit to London is complete without learning the quintessential traditions of the British monarchy. Our Buckingham Palace tours include a guided walk down The Mall and through one of London's most beautiful royal parks, as well as an intimate glimpse into the lives of the Royal Family.

Meet your local guide not far from the Palace itself, who will welcome you and take you on your tour of London’s most royal environs with fascinating background on both this immense iconic residence and the Royal Family themselves. You’ll pass by the magnificent St. James's Palace, built by Henry VIII, followed by a stroll through beautiful St. James's Park, once home to the royal zoo. The Mall, built to resemble a giant red carpet leads up to the Palace, and you’ll pass by Clarence House, also a Royal palace and previous home to King Charles III. After your relaxing walking tour, you’ll have the rare chance to visit the inside of the royal residence - Buckingham Palace.

The Royals open the doors of Buckingham Palace to visitors just once a year for two short months. This is a unique opportunity to catch a rare glimpse into the London residence of the Royals. Tickets are hard to come by but our entrance is pre-booked, which means access is guaranteed and there will be no lines to wait in. This is where the King extends a royal welcome to visitors, boasting lavish rooms, sparkling chandeliers, and sumptuous furnishings. These rooms house some of the greatest treasures of the Royal Collection, such as exquisite pieces of Sèvres porcelain and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world. With the official Palace audio guide, you’ll learn all about the palace’s residents, history, and traditions as well as the stories of the furnishings and ornaments. Many of these items were gifts from Heads of State spanning both the centuries and the globe.

Immerse yourself in London’s Royal heritage, history and traditions on our Buckingham Palace Visit with Royal Walking Tour for a compact and informative perspective on this amazing destination.

Thousands of 5-Star Reviews

Tripadvisor, know before you go, meeting point.

Duke of York Column - Open in Google Maps

Important Notes

Cancelation Policy

This tour is subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected departure time.

We strongly advise against arriving at the meeting point without a booking as we cannot guarantee that there will be space left on the tour. Our guides are unable to accept payment for tours so any bookings made on the spot will still need to be processed over the phone with payment by credit card.

You can cancel your booking through the ' My Bookings ' section of the website, or please contact our Customer Care team by phone , chat or email us at [email protected] . If you have booked your tour through a third party distributor, please contact them directly to cancel or rebook your tour.

To amend your booking, please contact our Customer Care team by phone , chat or email us at [email protected] . If you have booked your tour through a third-party distributor, please contact them directly to amend your booking.

• Book with Confidence: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience begins (local time).
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
• No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.

You Might Also Like...

WWII Secrets of Westminster, Churchill’s War Rooms & Museum Walking Tour

Unique Fully Guided Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Changing of the Guard Tour with Expert Commentary

London tours, buckingham palace tours, get to know city wonders.

A City Wonders tour is the product of meticulous research, detailed planning, and a passion for providing customers with travel experiences they will cherish forever.

With City Wonders it's not just facts, our passionate guides tell you the stories that bring the sights to life.

• All of our guides are experts in their field
• We only hire fluent English-speakers so nothing is ever lost in translation
• We focus on the little details and anecdotes that make City Wonders so special

Recommended London Posts

• London Attractions
• London Tours

Buckingham Palace

• King's Gallery
• Plan Your Visit
• Guided Tours
• London Theatre Tickets
• Harry Potter London Tours
• Tower of London
• Madame Tussauds London
• Westminster Abbey
• London To Windsor Castle Tours
• Up At The O2 Climb
• SEA LIFE London Aquarium
• London To Stonehenge Tours
• Tower Bridge
• Frameless London
• Heathrow Airport transfers
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• London City Passes
• National Express London
• Kew Gardens
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Sightseeing Cruises
• Dinner Cruises
• Lunch Cruises
• Travel Guide
• Things to do
• Trip Planner
• Where to Eat
• Festivals and Events
• Travel Tips

All You Need to Know About Buckingham Palace Opening Timings

Buckingham Palace is open from July 11 to September 29, 2024.

• Buckingham Palace is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during September.
• The State Rooms are open daily during July and August.

Best time to visit the Buckingham Palace

Weekday vs weekend.

• Weekday:  Visiting Buckingham Palace on weekdays, particularly Thursdays, offers a quieter, more intimate experience with shorter queues, facilitating a deeper appreciation of its historical grandeur and architectural magnificence.
• Weekend:  Exploring Buckingham Palace on weekends, especially Sundays, is advantageous as it features guided tours between 10:15 AM and 1 PM, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the lavishness of the State Rooms.

Peak season vs Low season

• Peak Season:  Touring Buckingham Palace in peak season, July through August, affords comprehensive insights with guided explorations of the State Rooms and the spectacle of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. During this period, you are likely to run into a bigger crowd, thus allowing you to enjoy the cheer and zeal of the enthusiastic tourists and locals alike. 
• Low Season:  From November to May, Buckingham Palace offers a more personal encounter with its majestic interiors, though it is important to note that guided tours are less frequent during these month

Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in the world. Located in London, England, this historic palace is the official residence of the British monarch, currently King Charles III. The palace has served as the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality since the early 18th century and has been the official London residence of the British monarch since Queen Victoria's accession in 1837.

Buckingham Palace opening hours

Exclusive Guided Tours: Available from November to May

• Tours start at various times: 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM
• Tours last approximately 1.5 hours
• Check the latest availability for tours

Summer Opening of Buckingham Palace 2024: The State Rooms are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays

• 11 July - 31 August 2024: Opening Time: 09:30 AM, Last Admission: 5:15 PM, Closing Time: 7:30 PM
• 1 - 29 September 2024: Opening Time: 09:30 AM, Last Admission: 4:15 PM, Closing Time: 6:30 PM

Shop and eat

Garden Café

• Services - Cafe, refreshments
• Closed - October to June
• 14th July to 31st August - 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM
• 1st September to 24th September - 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM

Buckingham Palace Road Shop:

• Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Address: 7 Buckingham Palace Road, Victoria, London, England, SW1A 1AA
• Located outside of the Palace walls, Buckingham Palace Road is tucked around the corner from the grand façade, just a short walk from Victoria coach and rail station.

What is the best time to visit Buckingham Palace

The best time to visit Buckingham Palace will largely depend on what you want to see and do during your visit, as well as your personal preferences for crowd size and weather conditions.

Peak vs Low season

Low Season (November - March):

• Benefits: Shorter lines for tickets, exclusive guided tours available, potential for deals on tours, milder temperatures with occasional rain.

Peak Season (July - September):

• Highlights : Thriving atmosphere with vibrant energy, State Rooms open for exploration, daily Changing of the Guard ceremony, potential for larger crowds, peak season pricing, warmest weather with longer daylight hours.

Weekend vs Weekday

The best time to visit Buckingham Palace in terms of crowds is generally during the weekdays, as weekends tend to be more crowded. However, keep in mind that some events, such as the Changing of the Guard ceremony, only take place on specific days and times, so it's important to plan accordingly.

It's a good idea to arrive early in the day to make the most of your visit and avoid crowds. Keep in mind that the palace may close early on some days for official ceremonies or events, so it's always best to check the schedule beforehand.

How long do you need to tour Buckingham Palace?

The amount of time visitors spend inside Buckingham Palace can vary depending on their interests and the activities they choose to participate in. If you're interested in touring the State Rooms, it's recommended to allow at least two hours for your visit. This will give you enough time to explore the State Rooms, which feature historic artworks, furnishings, and other treasures, and learn about their rich history through the audio guides provided.

If you're also interested in visiting the palace gardens, then you may want to allocate an additional hour or two to your visit, especially if you plan to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the scenery.

Focus on the State Rooms: This self-guided tour through 19 opulent rooms showcasing art, furniture, and royal treasures like the Throne Room and Grand Entrance is the palace's core attraction. Allocate 1.5-2 hours for a leisurely stroll with the audio guide.

Deepen your Palace Experience:  Combine the State Rooms tour with the  Royal Mews , home to the Queen's carriages and horses. This adds another 45 minutes to an hour. Consider venturing into the  Queen's Gallery , hosting special exhibitions (allow 1-2 hours depending on the exhibit).

Full Day (6+ Hours)

Immerse Yourself in the Royal World:  Take the "Royal Day Out" package, encompassing the State Rooms, Royal Mews, and the beautiful  Buckingham Palace Gardens . Explore the 16 hectares of landscaped lawns, lakes, and follies at your own pace (1-2 hours recommended).

Frequently asked questions about Buckingham Palace opening hours

A. Buckingham Palace is open to visitors in the summer from July to September. The opening timings for 2023 at 9:30 Am to 7:30 PM (14th July to 31st August) and 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM (1st September to 24th September). The last admission is at 5:15 PM in July and August and 4:15 PM in September. The palace is also open for guided tours on some days between November to March. 

As the palace is open for select days in a year, you should not wait to get tickets at the entrance. Buy in advance and plan your visit ahead of time to have a great experience.

You can get to Buckingham Palace via train, underground, bus or car. If you’re driving to the attraction, follow these directions on Maps .

Buckingham Palace has five gates in total. 

 A minimum of 2-3 hours are needed to explore Buckingham Palace. If you take guided tours, you will need to spend 90 minutes as the guide takes you through different sections of the palace.

The official address of Buckingham Palace is London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom. You can find it on Maps .