Overview
Buckingham Palace has been the official London residence of the British monarch since Queen Victoria took the throne in 1837; today it serves King Charles III. It contains 19 State Rooms and 775 rooms in total, and parts of the State Rooms open to the public only in summer (typically mid-July to late September). The most famous spectacle is the Changing of the Guard, when red-uniformed, bearskin-hatted guardsmen perform a 45-minute ceremony embodying British tradition. The Union Jack flying above means the King is away; the Royal Standard means he is in residence. State Rooms admission about GBP 30 (summer only). 10-minute walk from Victoria, Green Park, or St James's Park tube.
Opening Hours
Exterior open 24 hours; State Rooms July-September 09:30-19:30 (seasonal)
Travel Tips
The Changing of the Guard happens at 11:00 daily May-July and every other day the rest of the year. Arrive about an hour early for a good spot.
Hotels near Buckingham Palace
Hotels and guesthouses in London, Westminster, London
Other attractions in London
Big Ben & Palace of Westminster
London's iconic Gothic Houses of Parliament and its world-famous clock tower.
British Museum
One of the world's greatest museums, home to the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and 8 million artifacts.
Tower Bridge
The Thames landmark, a working bascule bridge with a popular museum inside.
Tower of London
A thousand-year-old fortress built by William I in 1066 — home to the Crown Jewels and legendary ravens.
London Eye
A 135m Ferris wheel on the South Bank — a 360-degree panorama of London.
St Paul's Cathedral
A masterpiece of English Baroque by Christopher Wren — venue of Princess Diana's wedding.
Borough Market
London's foodie mecca — a thousand-year-old market gathering British and global ingredients in one place.