If you’re visiting London, no trip is complete without stopping by Buckingham Palace—the official residence of the British monarch and one of the most iconic buildings in the UK. Whether you’re drawn in by the royal history, the grandeur of the architecture, or just the chance to snap a photo by the famous gates, here’s everything you need to know.
📍 Where is Buckingham Palace?
Buckingham Palace sits proudly at the heart of London, at the western end of The Mall, flanked by Green Park, St James’s Park, and Victoria. The full address is:
Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
It’s easy to find—it’s the grand building with black and gold gates, crowds out front, and often a sea of Union Jack flags nearby. The palace is surrounded by beautiful royal parks, statues, and wide ceremonial roads, making the approach just as memorable as the building itself.
🚇 How Do I Get There?
By Tube (London Underground):
- Green Park Station (Jubilee, Victoria, and Piccadilly lines) – about a 5-minute walk through Green Park
- Victoria Station (Victoria, Circle, and District lines) – around 10 minutes on foot, with lots of shops and cafés nearby
- St James’s Park Station (District and Circle lines) – another great nearby option, ideal if you’re walking up through the park
By Bus:
Numerous bus routes stop nearby, including numbers 11, 211, C1, and C10. It’s a scenic ride if you’re coming from elsewhere in central London.
Walking:
It’s a lovely stroll if you’re coming from Westminster, Trafalgar Square, or Hyde Park. Walking down The Mall or through St James’s Park makes for a beautiful approach, especially on a sunny day.
🕰️ When’s the Best Time to Visit?
Summer is the sweet spot.
From late July to early October, the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace open to the public. During these weeks, you can actually go inside and explore the lavish interiors, including the Throne Room, the Ballroom, and the Picture Gallery. The tour also includes views over the Palace Gardens, which are otherwise off-limits to the public.
Other times of year:
Even when it’s closed, the palace exterior is worth visiting year-round. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a must-see (more on that below) and takes place most days at 11:00 a.m., weather permitting. The atmosphere in spring, with cherry blossoms in nearby parks, is particularly photogenic.
👑 Can I Go Inside?
Yes—but only during the summer months, typically from late July through September. Entry is ticketed and must be booked in advance through the Royal Collection Trust website.
What you’ll see inside:
- 19 sumptuous State Rooms used for royal receptions and events
- Royal artwork, chandeliers, and fine furnishings dating back centuries
- A chance to walk through parts of the Palace Garden, complete with a lake and wildflower meadows
- And yes, that iconic red-carpeted staircase you may have seen in royal documentaries
Sadly, the King’s private quarters are not part of the tour (no peeking in the royal bedroom, sorry!). But what you do get to see is more than enough to leave you starstruck.
Tip: Tickets can sell out quickly in peak months, so it’s wise to book early.
👀 Don’t Miss: The Changing of the Guard
This traditional ceremony—complete with marching, music, and bearskin hats—is one of London’s great spectacles. It’s a vibrant piece of pageantry that draws crowds every time.
When:
Typically Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 11:00 a.m. (check official schedules before you go, as timings can vary or be cancelled in poor weather)
The guards march from Wellington Barracks to the palace, with a military band playing everything from traditional tunes to the occasional film score. The whole event lasts about 45 minutes.
Arrive early to get a good viewing spot at the front gates, or try the steps of the Victoria Memorial for a raised view.
💡 GertieBlu’s Tips
- Arrive early for the Changing of the Guard (by 10:30 a.m. at least)
- Bring a zoom lens if you want close-up photos of the guards and ceremony
- If you’re visiting in summer, combine your palace tour with a walk through St James’s Park—one of the most scenic spots in central London
- Don’t forget the Royal Mews (home to royal carriages and horses) and the Queen’s Gallery, both open much of the year and often overlooked by tourists
Buckingham Palace is more than just a postcard image—it’s a living piece of British history. Whether you go inside or admire it from the gates, it’s a moment worth savouring on your London adventure. There’s a special kind of magic about standing at those famous railings, camera in hand, wondering if a royal might just peek out the window.
Happy wandering,
GertieBlu x
