Summary
Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British sovereign since Queen Victoria’s time in 1837, has had a complex history as a royal residence. Initially offered to the nation as a temporary House of Parliament due to its lack of appeal, it is now one of the most iconic attractions in the United Kingdom. Visitor experiences at Buckingham Palace can range from a casual viewing of the Changing of the Guards to a comprehensive tour of its majestic interior. Here’s a detailed guide to planning your visit.
History of Buckingham Palace
In the early 17th century, during King James I’s reign, the land where Buckingham Palace now stands was initially a mulberry plantation, part of various unsuccessful attempts to cultivate silkworms in Europe. The estate, nestled between Green Park and St. James’s Park, already featured a house when acquired by a nobleman in 1628. Over the next 70 years, it changed hands among various nobles until it was gifted to the Duke of Buckingham, who constructed a new residence, now known as Buckingham House.
Constructed at a cost of £7,000, Buckingham House has undergone substantial renovation, with a £370 million refurbishment commencing in 2017.
It first became a royal residence—not officially a palace—in 1762 when King George III purchased it for Queen Charlotte and their children. The renovations of that era included exquisite ceilings designed by the Scottish architect Robert Adam.
When King George IV took the throne, Buckingham House remained simply a large house. Aspiring to transform it into a palace, he commissioned famed Regency architect John Nash for ambitious renovations. However, following the king’s death, Nash was dismissed due to overspending.
Despite contributions from other architects, King William IV, George III’s brother, found the house unfurnished and often declined to occupy it.
Visiting Buckingham Palace
The State Rooms have been accessible to the public since 1993, but only during a limited season from mid-July to the end of September. These public tours, initially intended to raise funds to repair Windsor Castle following a fire in 1992, became so popular that the tradition continues yearly. However, visitors should not expect to see Queen Elizabeth II or any Royal Family members during this time, as they often relocate to their country residences or visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.
Visitors will discover a magnificent complex consisting of 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms. These rooms host official events involving the Queen and the Royal Family, while access to the remaining areas, which include 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms, is restricted.
During your visit, you’ll encounter extraordinary chambers filled with treasures from the Royal Collection, encompassing works by noted artists like Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto, along with exceptional pieces of English and French furniture. Highlights of your visit may include:
- The White Drawing Room – Renowned as the most splendid of the reception rooms, featuring a stunning roll-top desk and a gilded piano originally provided for Queen Victoria.
- The Throne Room – Contains a remarkable collection of thrones, including those used during the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and unique pieces from previous reigns.
- The Picture Gallery – A space for candidates awaiting official honors, showcasing a rotating selection from the Queen’s art collection.
- The Ballroom – The largest State Room, utilized for state banquets and investitures, complete with an organ and an impressive Throne Canopy designed by Lutyens.
After exploring the 19 rooms, feel free to stroll through the gardens or enjoy a light refreshment in the Garden Café, offering tea, coffee, sandwiches, and cakes.
Visitor Essentials
- When: Buckingham Palace opens to the public from mid-July to the end of September and offers private tours on selected winter dates.
- Where: The Palace is located at the convergence of two processional roads, with Green Park and St. James’s Park adjacent.
- How to Get There:
- By Train: Victoria Station and Charing Cross are the nearest rail stations. Consult National Rail Enquiries for schedules and fares.
- By London Underground: The closest London Underground Stations are Victoria, Hyde Park Corner, and St. James’s Park. For journey planning, visit Transport for London.
- By Bus: Bus routes 11, 211, C1, and C10 stop on Buckingham Palace Road, a brief walk from the entrance.
- Tickets
- Prices: Standard Admission prices from January 1, 2019, include Adult tickets at £25, and discounts for students, seniors, and children.
- How to Buy: Tickets are available for timed entry, with sales occurring at the Palace on busy days recommended for advance purchase from the ticket office or online.
- Combination Tickets: Enhance your visit with Royal Day Out tickets, granting access to Buckingham Palace, the Royal Mews, and the Queen’s Gallery.
- Practical Information: Explore resources regarding visit duration, multimedia guides in various languages, and accessibility options on the Palace website.
What Else is Nearby
The Royal Mews is considered one of the finest working stables, caring for the various state carriages and vehicles used by the Royal Family. Visitors can access this site either separately or as part of the Royal Day Out ticket package, with annual operations from February to November.
The Queen’s Gallery, located adjacent to Buckingham Palace, showcases rotating exhibitions from the Royal Collection, including historical art pieces and decorative items. This gallery is also included in the Royal Day Out ticket.
Clarence House is a short walk from Buckingham Palace, serving as the official residence of the Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. While typically open to the public in August, it is currently undergoing maintenance with an expected reopening in August 2020.
One Word of Warning
It is important to note that while tickets stamped at the end of your visit may suggest unlimited access through the year, this is misleading as Buckingham Palace is only open from mid-July to the end of September. If you purchase a Royal Day Out ticket, other attractions included in the package remain open year-round, but “Buck House” itself does not. Being aware of this will help prevent disappointment during your visit.
