Buckingham Palace: What to See & Ticket Info | 2026 Guide

Ever wonder where King Charles actually lives? Buckingham Palace has been the monarchy's official residence since 1837 – all 775 rooms of it.

Each summer, 19 State Rooms open up. The throne rooms are massive. The ballrooms could fit half your neighbourhood. And the art? Let's just say museums get envious.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs daily, mostly, with guards in red tunics and bearskin hats marching about. It’s very touristy, of course, but it’s strangely entrancing to behold anyway.

Here's the thing: most visitors snap gate photos and leave. They miss the State Rooms completely, which is where the actual interesting stuff lives. These aren't museum pieces – they're working rooms where royal business still happens.

Buckingham Palace features on every list of places to visit in London, and for good reason. It truly lives up to the hype. If planning feels like a hassle, our Europe tour packages take care of the details for you.

About Buckingham Palace

• Where is Buckingham Palace located: Buckingham Palace is in Westminster, central London (SW1A 1AA).
• Nearest Stations: The closest tube stations are Green Park, Victoria, St. James’s Park, and Hyde Park Corner.
• Entry Fees: Summer tour tickets cost about INR 3808 for adults, 18–24 yrs: INR 2440.
• Children 5–17: INR 1904, Under 5: Free, Watching the Changing of the Guard outside is Free.
• Timings: The inside State Rooms are open only from July to September each year.
• Speciality: It’s the official home of the British monarch and is famous for royal ceremonies.
• Top Highlight: The Changing of the Guard is the most popular attraction and is free to watch.
• Nearby Spots: You can easily visit St. James’s Park, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square.

When Was Buckingham Palace Built?

Another common question is, “When was Buckingham Palace built?” It was first built in 1703. But at that time, it was not a royal palace. It was just a large house called Buckingham House. Later, the royal family bought it, expanded it, and slowly turned it into the grand Palace we see today.

History of Buckingham Palace London

The History of Buckingham Palace London is long and very interesting. Long ago, the Palace was not a royal home at all. It started as a private house for the Duke of Buckingham. In 1761, King George III bought the house for his wife, Queen Charlotte. They used it as a family home.

Later, when Queen Victoria became the ruler in 1837, she moved into the Palace. She made it the official royal home for the first time. Since then, every British monarch has used Buckingham Palace for work, meetings, celebrations, and important events.

Over the years, new wings, rooms, and decorations were added. The famous balcony, where the royal family waves to people during celebrations, was added during Queen Victoria’s time. This balcony is now known all over the world.

Because the History of Buckingham Palace is filled with royal stories, visitors enjoy learning how the Palace changed over time.

What to See and Do: Top Things to See and Do at Buckingham Palace

Every visitor wants to know the highlights of Buckingham Palace before entering. The Palace has 775 rooms, including state rooms, royal bedrooms, offices, and gardens. Some spaces are open for public tours during selected months. Here are some major highlights:

• State Rooms: 19 splendid rooms used for official ceremonies, receptions, and royal events. These rooms are richly decorated with art, furniture, and history.
• Grand Staircase / Ballrooms / Throne Rooms / Picture Galleries: These rooms show lavish decor, royal portraits, historic paintings, and beautiful designs - giving a glimpse into royal life.
• Royal Mews & Gallery (other areas): The palace grounds include stables, coach collections, and gallery spaces that sometimes host exhibitions.
• Exterior & Gates & Gardens: Even outside, the palace gates and façade are famous - many people enjoy watching or photographing the outside view, including guards and ceremonies.

Outside, the grand gates, the balcony, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony are major attractions.

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Best Time to Visit Buckingham Palace London

If you want to avoid crowds and still enjoy the Palace, knowing the Best Time to visit Buckingham Palace helps a lot. The best time depends on your plan.

• If you want to see the inside rooms, the best time to visit Buckingham Palace is during the summer (July to September). This is when the State Rooms are open.
• For good weather, spring and early autumn are great because it is not too hot or too cold.
• If you want the best pictures, mornings are perfect because the light is soft.

How to Reach Buckingham Palace

Visitors often search online for How to Reach Buckingham Palace. The good news is that getting here is easy.

Nearest Tube (Underground) Stations

• Green Park station - served by Piccadilly, Jubilee, and Victoria lines. From here, a 6–10 minute walk through Green Park takes you directly to the palace. This route is pleasant and often considered the easiest.
• St James's Park station - on Circle and District lines. From this station, it's about an 8–10 minute walk to the palace via Petty France and Buckingham Gate / Constitution Hill.
• Victoria Station - serves the District, Circle, and Victoria lines, plus National Rail - useful if you arrive from outside London or from the airport. From Victoria Station, it’s roughly a 10–12 minute walk to Buckingham Palace via Buckingham Palace Road.
• Other nearby options: If you are on the Piccadilly line, you can also use Hyde Park Corner station - from there it's about a 15-minute walk via Constitution Hill.

Why Tube is best: It’s usually faster, avoids surface traffic, and connects well across London. If you have luggage or mobility concerns, Green Park and Victoria stations offer more accessible (step-free / less steep) routes.

Bus, Bike or Walk - Other Easy Ways

• Several bus routes stop close to the palace. For example, bus lines like 11, 211, C1, C10 (and others depending on your starting point) have stops within a few minutes’ walk from the palace entrance.
• If you like cycling, you can use hire-bike services (like Santander Cycles) and dock near nearby stations or park areas. From there, walk a short distance to the palace - good if you enjoy a bit of flexibility.
• Walking is a great option if you are already near central London. Many famous spots lie within walking distance, and approaching on foot lets you enjoy parks or city views.

Driving & Parking - What You Should Know

• Driving to Buckingham Palace is generally not recommended. There is no public parking at the palace grounds.
• Central London traffic and charges (congestion zones) make driving less convenient than public transport.
• If you do drive, you’d need to find a public car park nearby (some exist around Victoria or other parts, though not very close), then walk or use public transport the rest of the way.

What to Pick - Best Route Based on Your Situation

• If you’re already in central London: Use Tube - Green Park or St James’s Park for the shortest and easiest walk.
• If arriving from outside London (rail or airport): Go via Victoria station, then walk 10–12 minutes.
• If you enjoy a relaxed scenic walk or ride, try cycling or combine bus + walk.
• If you prefer accessibility (lifts, easy paths), Green Park or Victoria tube stations are best for step-free or gentler routes.

Tickets - What is Buckingham Palace Ticket Price & Visit Details

• To visit the inside rooms, you need a ticket. The tour is managed by a group called the Royal Collection Trust.
• Ticket prices depend on age (adult/youth/child) and what you want to see (just State Rooms, or extra galleries, etc.).
• The tour usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours if you’re going through the State Rooms.
• Because it’s very popular - especially in summer - it’s important to book early online. Walk-ins on the same day rarely work because tickets often sell out.

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Nearby Tourist Spots of Buckingham Palace

If you are visiting Buckingham Palace, you’ll be happy to know that many famous London attractions are just a short walk away. These nearby places make your trip even more fun and can be covered on the same day.

Below are the best and Nearby Tourist Spots of Buckingham Palace, written in very simple language.

1. Green Park

Green Park is the closest park to Buckingham Palace. It is directly next to the palace and is perfect for a calm walk. It has open lawns and trees, making it a peaceful place to relax after visiting the palace. Many people stop here to rest or enjoy the fresh air.

2. St James’s Park

St James’s Park is one of the most beautiful parks in London and lies just a few minutes from Buckingham Palace. This park has a lake, ducks, bridges, and walking paths. It is a great place for kids and families. You also get a lovely view of Buckingham Palace from the park.

3. Victoria Memorial

The Victoria Memorial is the big white-and-gold monument right in front of Buckingham Palace. Many tourists take pictures here because the statue looks beautiful and the palace stands behind it. You will pass this spot automatically when you visit the palace.

4. Wellington Arch (Hyde Park Corner)

Wellington Arch is only a short walk from Buckingham Palace. It is a historic stone arch with a bronze statue on top. You can also go inside and climb up for a view of the area. It’s good for people who enjoy history and viewpoints.

5. Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of the most famous churches in the world, located not too far from Buckingham Palace. British kings and queens are crowned here. You can reach it by a short bus ride, taxi, or a longer walk. It is full of history and beautiful architecture.

6. Big Ben & Houses of Parliament

The iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament are also near Buckingham Palace. These are some of the most visited landmarks in London. You can walk here in about 20 minutes or take public transport. Many tourists combine these attractions with their palace visit.

7. Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is a lively tourist area located close to the palace. Many events and street performances take place here. It is a good spot to stop, explore, and take photos. You can walk there or take a bus.

8. The National Gallery

The National Gallery is right next to Trafalgar Square. It is one of the best art museums in London and is free to enter. This makes it a very good add-on to your Buckingham Palace trip if you enjoy paintings and culture.

Tips For Visiting Buckingham Palace

Here are some of the tips for visiting Buckingham Palace:

• Advance Booking: Ensure that you book the tickets in advance because during the summer season, the tickets sell out quickly.
• Arrive Early: If you are planning to attend the changing of the guard ceremony, it is advisable that you arrive early to get the best viewing spot.
• Security Checks: The security is really tight, so you can expect airport-style security checks, so don’t be startled.
• Dress Comfortably: Ensure that you wear shoes and clothes that are comfortable and appropriate to the weather.
• Website Check: Always check for updated timings and ticket prices before visiting, including checking the Royal Collection Trust website. This is one of the common travel tips for London attractions.

Final Thoughts - A Great Place to Visit

If you travel to London and get a chance, Buckingham Palace is something you really shouldn’t miss. Whether you get to go inside the State Rooms or just see the gates and take photos, it feels magical and historic. For many people, seeing the palace and maybe the royal guards is an unforgettable memory.

If you are planning a trip, try to check the official opening dates, book your ticket early, and wear comfy shoes. You can also mix your visit with nearby parks - that makes your day even better.