Heading to London and wondering what all the fuss is about Buckingham Palace? Simple. It’s the epicenter of the British monarchy, oozing history, power, and serious grandeur. That’s why I’ve put together this guide on the must-see highlights at the Palace. Trust me, this is one landmark you don’t want to skip.
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Best Things To See at Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic buildings on the planet. As the official London residence of King Charles III, it’s been the royal crib since 1837. And let’s be real, it’s impossible to think of London or the royal family without picturing this grand monument.
This place isn’t just a pretty face; it’s been the backdrop for major events throughout the 20th century and serves as the working headquarters for the British monarch. Throughout the year, the palace buzzes with banquets, receptions, and state events, making it the center of royal life.
You can’t miss it. It’s smack dab in the heart of London. Right out front, the massive Queen Victoria Memorial demands attention, while the wide boulevard of The Mall leads straight to Trafalgar Square and intersects with Whitehall.
On one side, you’ve got the stunning St. James’s Park, perfect for a stroll. On the other, there’s the historic St. James’s Palace and a lineup of other royal residences. This is where history and modern royal life collide, so don’t sleep on it!
Keep in mind that the State Rooms, including the Grand Staircase, Picture Gallery, White Drawing Room, Throne Room, and Ballroom, only open to visitors for part of the year, usually over the summer. Check the dates before you plan your visit.
Not ready to book a tour? See if Buckingham Palace tours are worth it.
9. The Front Facade of Buckingham Palace
Originally, the palace had a three-sided open courtyard with a triumphant Roman-style arch made entirely out of Carrara marble that stood prominently in front. Queen Victoria eventually built the fourth wing across the front and facade.
The stone facade and famous balcony we know today are new compared to other palaces, as the facade was added in 1913 under King George V.
Throughout the 20th century, the British public have seen the monarch and the royal family appear on the balcony for important national events and celebrations. Queen Elizabeth II made her final balcony appearance during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022.
8. The Changing of the Guard
The traditional British ceremonial pomp isn’t just reserved for the inside of royal palaces and castles. You can catch the Changing of the Guard, which happens in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace.
Elite soldiers and an accompanying military band participate in this ceremony, a tradition of guarding the monarch that dates back to 1660. The whole thing lasts about 45 minutes and is a free spectacle. It usually takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11 am, with a separate Sunday parade, but always check the official Household Division schedule before you go. If you like music, history, or just a good parade, then definitely schedule it into your travel plans, but be sure to get there early.
If crowds aren’t your thing but you still want some of that British royal grandeur, head to Horse Guards Parade to see the changing of the King’s Life Guard. This lesser-known mounted cavalry ceremony is a one-of-a-kind event and less packed than the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. This ceremony happens every day at 11 am and at 10 am on Sundays.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out the best London tours to take and why.
7. The King’s Gallery
The King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace is a must-visit for art lovers. Formerly known as the Queen’s Gallery, this public art gallery showcases stunning pieces from the Royal Collection, which is held in trust by the King for the nation, giving you a glimpse into the royal art world. What’s great is that it’s open almost all year round, from Thursday to Monday, so you can easily fit it into your London itinerary. The main palace, on the other hand, only opens to visitors for part of the year. Gallery entry isn’t included in a standard palace ticket, but it is part of the Royal Day Out combo ticket.
6. The Grand Staircase
The gold and white Grand Staircase with rich red carpet has all of the trappings of a perfect entrance. It was built by John Nash in the early 19th century but redecorated in white and gold for Edward VII in the early 20th century.
The upper balcony has two staircases leading down both sides to the lower landing. The Grand Staircase features family portraits chosen by Queen Victoria. They include her grandparents, parents, and her uncle and immediate predecessor, King William IV.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out the best London tours to take and why.
5. The Picture Gallery
The Picture Gallery in Buckingham Palace is a special treat for art lovers. The Royal Collection, owned by the sovereign, is one of the most significant collections of art in the world. The British royal family has collected art throughout the generations from various masters, and this gallery gives the public a taste of the fantastic Royal Collection.
The room is 47 meters long and contains some of the most notable works within the Royal Collection, with paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Canaletto, and Van Dyck. The red brocade gallery sets off the artwork like Canaletto’s celebrations of Venetian beauty and Van Dyck’s portraits. Pieces from the Royal Collection can be seen throughout the palace and in other royal palaces, but there are always standouts in the Picture Gallery worth enjoying.
4. The White Drawing Room
Buckingham Palace is a royal office, a place for ceremonial State occasions, a venue for formal entertainment, an official residence, and a private home. George IV’s vision to turn Buckingham House into a palace resulted in 19 State Rooms. The White Drawing Room is one of the more well-known State Rooms of the palace.
Queen Elizabeth II frequently made appearances, was photographed, and held gatherings to meet special guests in this room.
The White Drawing Room in Buckingham Palace has accents of gold emblems and details that sparkle, making the whole room look like a royal wedding dress fit for a queen. English and French furniture adorn this room, and one highlight is the exquisite portrait of Queen Alexandra by French artist François Flameng.
3. The Throne Room
The Throne Room of Buckingham Palace gives all the vibes of splendor and pageantry visitors look for when visiting a royal palace. This grand room is resplendent with gold and scarlet, high ornate ceilings, and golden sconces. The room’s focal point is the two crimson silk throne chairs known as the Chairs of Estate, used for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
Other coronation chairs used by Queen Victoria and King George VI are also in the room. The thrones, with their rich scarlet brocade and golden trim, are set on a stage surrounded by ruby red tapestry. It’s also where the official wedding photos of the Prince and Princess of Wales were taken in 2011. No visit to Buckingham Palace is complete without taking in the majesty of this room.
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2. Queen Victoria Memorial
The iconic circular memorial to one of Britain’s most famous queens, Queen Victoria, sits right in front of Buckingham Palace. This tribute is fitting since Queen Victoria was the first reigning monarch to live in Buckingham Palace. She even started the tradition of the balcony appearance when she appeared in 1851 for the Great Exhibition.
The memorial stands 82 feet tall. A golden Winged Victory statue sits on top, and Queen Victoria herself sits enthroned, facing the Mall and Admiralty Arch.
Other statues representing courage, justice, motherhood, and constancy adorn the Memorial. Besides the fence along Buckingham Palace, this is the best place to view the Changing of the Guard.
1. The Ballroom
This enormous room is the largest State Room in Buckingham Palace. Queen Victoria used it to hold magnificent costume balls. Today, it is the location for State dinners with foreign dignitaries and investitures.
The Ballroom also has a canopied throne with two throne chairs. These belonged to Queen Elizabeth II’s great-grandparents (King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra) for their coronation in 1902. King Edward VII began to modernize the palace in the early 20th century and many of his renovations have gone unchanged.
Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit Buckingham Palace.
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