Britain’s most famous home and official residence of the royal family since 1837, Buckingham Palace is the epicenter of the British constitutional monarchy. Its walls have witnessed countless decrees, luxury banquets and diplomatic receptions.
Built more than 300 years ago for the Duke of Buckingham, the palace has grown over the centuries. Today, it is one of the most visited sites in the world.
Cross the threshold of Buckingham Palace, reach the Great Hall and admire the grand marble staircase adorned with portraits hung by Queen Victoria. Decorated with golden chandeliers, the Throne Room is used during royal meetings and receptions. This is the room leading to the famous balcony on which Prince William and Catherine Middleton celebrated their wedding moment in 2011.
The palace may not be a museum, but it houses an art collection that museums envy. Discover handcrafted furniture created for kings and a family heritage that collected works of great masters, including Rembrandt.
The palace has more than 700 rooms. In August and September, during Queen Elizabeth II’s annual visit to Scotland, 19 magnificent State Chambers are open to the public. These rooms exhibit many masterpieces from the private collection of the royal family. Tickets allow you to visit Buckingham Palace with guides and you should book your ticket online earlier. Little curiosity: if the royal flag flies on the roof of the palace, the Queen is at home.
Complete your stay in London by attending the Changing of the Guard. A ceremony which takes place on certain days at 11:30 am. Most tourists try to distract the famous Queen’s Guards. From the palace you can walk to Hyde Park, the Kensington area and Green Park.
If you prefer, take the metro.
Buckingham Palace is located in the City of Westminster. To get there, take a bus or stop at St. James’s Park underground station. Guided tours of the State Chambers are only available during the months of August and September.