Buckingham Palace is more than just a magnificent building; it is the official London residence and working headquarters of the British monarch. A visit here is essential for any first-timer, but unlike a museum, it operates on a strict royal schedule.
From seeing the iconic Changing of the Guard to knowing when you can actually step inside the State Rooms, here is your essential guide to planning your visit.
1. The Key Distinction: Inside vs. Outside
Many travelers are confused about what they can actually see at Buckingham Palace. There are two very different ways to visit:
A. The Exterior (Year-Round, Free)
This is what most people see. You can walk right up to the famous gilded gates, take photos of the iconic facade, and watch the ceremonies on the forecourt. This costs nothing and can be done at any time.
B. The Interior (Summer Only, Ticketed)
Because the palace is a working royal residence, the majestic State Rooms are only opened to the public for a brief period each year when the monarch is away (traditionally at Balmoral).
-
2026 Summer Opening: July 9 to September 27, 2026.
-
What You See: The self-guided tour takes you through the magnificent State Rooms, including the Throne Room, the Ballroom (the largest room in the palace), and the Picture Gallery, all used for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining.
-
Duration: Allow 2.5 to 3 hours for the full tour.
2. Visiting the State Rooms: Practical Details
If you plan to visit the interior during the summer opening, follow these essential steps:
-
Book Well in Advance: Tickets for the summer opening sell out rapidly. Prices for 2026 start at £33.00 for a standard adult ticket (£16.50 for a child). Booking online and in advance is highly recommended to guarantee your timed entry slot.
-
Ticket Options: Look for combined tickets like the “Royal Day Out” (£65.70 adult advance price), which includes entry to the State Rooms, the Royal Mews (stables and carriages), and The King’s Gallery (art exhibitions), offering a 10% saving.
-
The Exit is in the Garden: The tour concludes with a walk along the famous lawn and lake in the beautiful palace garden—a photo opportunity you can’t get anywhere else!
-
Security & Bags: Expect airport-style security. Large bags and suitcases are strictly prohibited and there are no storage facilities at the Palace. Travel light!
-
Photography: Strictly prohibited inside the State Rooms. You can only take photos and videos in the Palace Gardens.
3. The Changing of the Guard (The Free Spectacle)
This iconic military ceremony is a must-see, but it requires strategy.
-
What it Is: The formal handover of duties between the old guard and the new guard, featuring precise military drill, red tunics, bearskin hats, and a full regimental band playing music.
-
Typical Schedule: The full ceremony usually takes place at 11:00 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (and daily in peak summer, though always check the official schedule just before your visit as dates can change).
-
Best Viewing Spots:
-
The Gates: Closest to the action, but you must arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour early to secure a spot at the fence.
-
The Queen Victoria Memorial: The steps around this monument offer a slightly raised platform, giving you a better, wider view over the crowds.
-
Wellington Barracks: Watch the New Guard form up and march down Birdcage Walk to the Palace around 10:45 AM.
-
4. Other Year-Round Royal Attractions
If you are visiting outside the summer months, you can still experience the history of the Palace grounds:
-
The Royal Mews: (Open from March 5, 2026) Located adjacent to the Palace, this is where the road transport of the monarch is kept. You can see the historic carriages (including the magnificent Gold State Coach) and the working royal horses.
-
The King’s Gallery: (Open from April 10, 2026) This gallery hosts rotating exhibitions drawn from the vast Royal Collection. In 2026, it will feature “Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style.”