Buckingham Palace

The official London residence of the British monarch, this ornate palace has been the home of royalty since 1837. The Changing of the Guard ceremony and state rooms open to the public make it one of London's most recognizable attractions.

Things to do

• Changing of the Guard — Witness the iconic ceremony featuring mounted soldiers in full ceremonial dress marching through the palace gates, typically held Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 11:00 AM (weather permitting).
• State Rooms Tour — Explore the opulent reception rooms including the Throne Room, Picture Gallery, and Ballroom during summer opening (usually August-September) with an official audio guide.
• Royal Mews Visit — Tour the working stables and carriage house to see the gilded coaches and horses used for state occasions, located on the south side of the palace grounds.
• Palace Gardens Walk — Stroll through the 39-acre private gardens featuring a lake, wild fowl, and mature trees, occasionally open to the public during special events and garden tours.
• Photo from the Gate — Capture memorable images from the Victoria Memorial or the forecourt entrance where tourists gather for the iconic palace backdrop.
• Queen's Gallery — View rotating exhibitions of masterpieces from the Royal Collection including paintings by Rubens, Canaletto, and contemporary works in this dedicated art space.

Food to try

• Coronation Chicken — A classic British dish created for Queen Elizabeth II's 1953 coronation, featuring poached chicken breast with a mild curry mayonnaise sauce, available at nearby tea rooms and restaurants.
• Afternoon Tea at St James's Park — Experience traditional English afternoon tea with scones, clotted cream, jam, and cucumber sandwiches at cafes surrounding the palace grounds.
• Royal Cakes and Pastries — Sample decorative royal-themed cakes, Victoria sponge, and ornate pastries sold at local bakeries and palace gift shops celebrating British royal confectionery traditions.
• Fish and Chips from Local Chippy — Enjoy this quintessential British staple from nearby shops around Westminster, perfect for casual dining while exploring the area.
• Beef Wellington — A sophisticated British dish of beef tenderloin wrapped in mushroom duxelles and pastry, reflecting the formal dining traditions of royal state banquets, available at fine dining venues nearby.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Code Expectations — Smart casual attire is recommended when visiting, and particularly formal dress is expected if attending any official garden parties or special events at the palace.
• Royal Protocol and Photography — Respect the armed guards and do not attempt to touch them or get too close; photography is permitted in public areas but avoid disrupting the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
• Advance Booking Essential — Book tickets online well in advance for State Rooms as access is limited and seasonal, and arrive early to avoid long queues, particularly during peak summer months.
• Union Jack Flag Significance — When the Royal Standard flag is flying above the palace, it indicates the monarch is in residence; the Union Jack means they are absent, a detail locals and visitors alike observe.