This is a post about how to visit Buckingham Palace.
Fans of The Crown, rejoice! As this summer you can live your best royal life. Buckingham Palace, the iconic royal residence is set to open its doors to the public for its annual Summer Opening. The exclusive period offers visitors a rare glimpse into the opulent State Rooms and the rich history of one of the world’s few remaining working royal palaces.
Guests will be able too embark on a self-guided tour through 19 magnificent State Rooms! Each adorned with exquisite furnishings, chandeliers and artworks from the Royal Collection. These rooms serve as the backdrop for official ceremonies and receptions hosted by the Royal Family.
One question The Crown has always left me with was… I wonder what their flower budget is! Do you think they have lavish bouquets throughout the palace like in the show? Probably more, I would think… and how long must it take to clean such a massive space with so many little trinkets?! I’ve got so many questions!
Highlights of the tour include:
- The Throne Room: Often used as a backdrop for royal wedding photographs, this room houses the thrones used for ceremonial receptions
- The White Drawing Room: An elegant space used for official entertaining, featuring a secret door through which members of the Royal Family enter
- The Ballroom: The largest of the State Rooms, hosting state banquets and investitures
- The Grand Staircase: Designed by architect John Nash, this impressive staircase is lined with portraits of members of the Royal Family
Visitors will also have the opportunity to view remarkable pieces by renowned artists. Think Rembrandt, Rubens and Van Dyck, all part of the Royal Collection.
New for 2025: Expanded East Wing Tours
In addition to the State Rooms, the East Wing of Buckingham Palace will be accessible through guided tours. It encompasses the iconic front façade and the famous central balcony. Following a successful debut in 2024, these tours have been expanded for 2025, offering visitors an in-depth look at the history and craftsmanship of this area. Highlights include the Chinese Dining Room, originally created for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as a family breakfast room.
Garden Highlights Tour
You can enhance their experience with a Garden Highlights Tour, exploring select areas of the Palace Garden, including the Herbaceous Border, Summer House, Rose Garden and Waterloo Vase. This tour provides a serene conclusion to the palace visit, showcasing the natural beauty surrounding the royal residence.
Read more: Complete Self-Guided Walk from Westminster to London Bridge
Practical Information for Visitors
Opening Dates and Times:
- 10 July to 31 August: Daily, 9:30 am–7:30 pm (last admission at 5:15 pm)
- 1 to 28 September: Thursday to Monday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm (last admission at 4:15 pm)
Ticket Prices:
- Adults (over 24): £32.00 (steep!! but then again, most of London is…)
- Young Adults (18-24): £20.50
- Children (5-17): £16.00
- Children (under 5): Free but tickets must be booked in advance
Booking Information:
Tickets can be purchased through the Royal Collection Trust website. Advance booking is highly recommended due to high demand during the limited opening period. You can choose to combine their State Rooms visit with the Royal Mews, where the royal family’s state vehicles, including horse-drawn carriages and motor cars are displayed.
Duration of Visit:
A typical visit lasts between 2 to 2.5 hours, allowing ample time to explore the State Rooms and enjoy a leisurely walk through the garden.
Accessibility:
Buckingham Palace is wheelchair accessible, with facilities available for visitors with disabilities, including accessible toilets and assistance services.
Photography:
Photography is not permitted inside the State Rooms to protect the artworks and furnishings. However, visitors are welcome to take photographs in the palace gardens.
Read more: 10 Best Walking Routes in London For The Warmer Seasons
How to Get There
Buckingham Palace is located in central London, with several convenient transport options:
- Tube Stations: Victoria (Circle, District, and Victoria lines), Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines) and Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly line)
- Bus Routes: 11, 211, C1, and C10 stop nearby
- Coach Station: Victoria Coach Station is a 10-minute walk away.
Tips for a Memorable Visit
- Arrive Early: To fully enjoy the experience, plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled entry time.
- Security Checks: Be prepared for airport-style security checks upon entry.
- Audio Guides: Multimedia guides are included in the ticket price, available in multiple languages, providing rich insights into the palace’s history and significance
- Combine Attractions: Consider pairing your palace visit with nearby royal attractions such as the Royal Mews or The King’s Gallery for a comprehensive royal experience
The Summer Opening of Buckingham Palace presents a unique opportunity to step inside the official residence of the British monarch and immerse yourself in the grandeur of royal history. Whether marveling at the opulent State Rooms, exploring the newly expanded East Wing tours or strolling through the peaceful Palace Garden. This experience offers unmatched insights into royal life! Don’t miss this limited-time chance to see Buckingham Palace in a way most visitors only dream of! Ensure you book in advance to secure your spot.
Will you visit Buckingham Palace this summer? Let me know in the comments! I’m contemplating… can you believe I’ve lived in London all these years but haven’t yet seen the change of the guards?!
What do you think is THE MOST iconic London attraction that no one should miss?
This was a post about how to visit Buckingham Palace this summer 2025.