UK Travel Planning Essential Guide to Visiting Buckingham Palace: Tours, Tickets, Tips, and Must-See Highlights
Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the UK monarch, represents centuries of British heritage while offering visitors a glimpse into the royal lifestyle through its magnificent State Rooms and gardens. We share comprehensive insights for planning your visit, from ticket options and tour experiences to practical tips and fascinating palace facts.
• Palace has 750 rooms, including 78 bathrooms, its own post office, and a cinema
• Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham, became a royal residence in 1761
• Royal Standard flag indicates the monarch is in residence; Union Jack means they're away
• State Rooms open July-September with standard, small group, and exclusive tour options
• Essential to book tickets months in advance as tours sell out quickly
• Exclusive small group tours are available at other times throughout the year
• New for 2025: opportunity to enter through the iconic front gates
• Highlights include the State Rooms, Throne Room, Picture Gallery, and Grand Staircase
• Gardens open in summer, featuring 39 acres with a lake, rose garden, and tennis court
• Green Park tube station is closest at a 6-minute walk
• Photography is not permitted inside the palace, but is allowed in the gardens
• Convert your ticket to a one-year pass by signing it and getting it stamped
• Nearby attractions include Changing of the Guard, St. James's Park, and Westminster Abbey
If you're planning a visit to Buckingham Palace or have questions, leave us a voice message via the SpeakPipe link in our show notes.
📝 Show Notes - Episode 150
📖 Read our full guide to Visiting Buckingham Palace
🎧 Listen to next
- Episode #146 - Guide to visiting Westminster Abbey
- Episode #142 - Guide to visiting the Tower of London
- Episode #138 - Explore London with Discover Real London black cab tours
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