Hotels near Buckingham Palace, London, United Kingdom

The Buckingham Palace Changing of the Guard Ceremony typically takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 11:00 AM and lasts around 45 minutes. There is also a Sunday parade at a similar time.

It is important to arrive early as the event draws large crowds, especially on weekends and public holidays. The schedule can occasionally change due to weather or special events, so checking ahead of your visit is recommended.

The Changing of the Guard is a colourful display of British tradition, featuring the King’s Guard in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats, set against the backdrop of Buckingham Palace.

Yes, Buckingham palace’s State Rooms are open to visitors for a limited time every summer, usually from late July to September. These grand rooms showcase some of the notable art and furnishings from the Royal Collection, including works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt and Canaletto.

Visitors can explore the lavish Throne Room, Ballroom and Picture Gallery, gaining insight into the life and history of the British monarchy.

Tickets should be booked in advance, as availability is limited and the tour is extremely popular.

Yes there is a Buckingham Palace garden tour as part of the summer opening schedule. Guided tours of the palace gardens are included as part of any visit.

These gardens span 39 acres and feature stunning flower beds, a large lake and over 1,000 trees. The garden tour offers a peaceful contrast to the opulence inside, giving visitors a chance to see the outdoor spaces where many royal events and garden parties take place.

Access is generally limited to guided groups and is included with the State Rooms admission, offering the opportunity to experience the palace from a different perspective.

A good time to visit Buckingham Palace is between July and September, when the State Rooms and gardens are open to the public. During this period, early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds, especially on days when the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place.

Springtime is also popular for viewing the palace’s surroundings in bloom, although visitors won’t have the opportunity to access the inside of the palace or the gardens at this time.

For those wanting to do more than visit the palace from the outside, booking tickets in advance is advisable.

Buckingham Palace hosts royal events throughout the year, including the annual Trooping the Colour, which marks the King’s official birthday with a grand military parade visible to the public. The palace gardens also welcome garden parties attended by thousands of guests invited by the Royal Family, celebrating community service and achievements.

State banquets and official receptions take place within the palace, but these are private and by invitation only.

Major events such as royal weddings and jubilees often centre around Buckingham Palace, drawing worldwide attention and public celebrations nearby.