Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence and administrative office of the British royal family since the 19th century and is one of the few remaining working royal palaces in the world. Access for the public is limited and exclusive but worthwhile for those who arrange a visit.
Yes, touring Buckingham Palace—one of the most recognized palaces in the world—is absolutely worth it. Self-guided tours are available in summer; guided tours are available in fall/winter, when the palace is otherwise closed to the public. Both tour options will get you a look at the fabulous State Rooms, gardens, and more.
...MoreSelf-guided tours of Buckingham Palace—which concentrate on the Throne Room and 19 State Rooms—range from £19.50 to £30 for adults, and £16.50 for children over five years of age (children under five get in for free). Guided tours are £90 per person. All tickets regularly sell out and should be booked in advance.
...MoreBuckingham Palace is open to the public for self-guided tours from mid-July through mid-September; tours run only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. That being said, guided tours are offered from November through February, Thursdays through Mondays. Hours are typically around 9:30am to 6:30pm or 7:30pm, depending on the season. Tickets are always a must.
...MoreGuided tours of Buckingham Palace take around 90 minutes. Self-guided tours allow you to explore at your leisure—you’ll have access to 19 State Rooms, the Throne Room (where royal wedding photos are taken), the Grand Staircase, and, of course, all the fine art lining the walls, from Rembrandt to Rubens.
...MoreNo, you cannot walk around Buckingham Palace for free. However, witnessing the Changing of the Guard outside the Palace is free—it takes place at 11:30am every morning during summer and every other morning during winter. To see the palace’s interior, tickets cost £19.50 to £30 for adults, and £16.50 for children over five.
...MoreThe entrance for the Buckingham Palace tour is next to the Queen’s Gallery. If you walk straight up Buckingham Palace Road, it will be on the left-hand side. If you see a long queue forming, unfortunately, that’s probably the one you need to join. Don’t worry—visitors get let in according to their ticket time.
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