Palais de Buckingham
Buckingham Palace in London is the British monarch’s official residence, best seen from outside, with the Changing of the Guard on selected dates.
In pictures
About
Buckingham Palace is one of London’s best-known landmarks. It is the British monarch’s official residence. It also hosts state functions and formal ceremonies.
For many visitors, the exterior is the main draw. The forecourt, gates and long approach along The Mall give the place its scale. The Changing of the Guard is the moment most people plan around. Crowds can build quickly, depending on season, weather and the official schedule.
Interior visits are not available year-round. When they do open, access follows specific periods and controlled entry. It is wise to check the official website before shaping your day around a Buckingham Palace visit.
The area works well on foot. You can link the palace with St James’s Park, Green Park, Westminster and nearby royal landmarks in one easy walk. That makes it a practical stop, even if you only want exterior views and a few Buckingham Palace photos.
If you prefer a calmer experience, go early in the morning. In winter, light fades sooner, so plan exterior photos first and park time after.
The Concierge's Tip
Go early if you want clear views of Buckingham Palace, especially on days with the Changing of the Guard. The forecourt fills fast. For an easy route, start at the palace, then walk through St James’s Park toward Westminster. In colder months, take exterior photos first while the light is better. If rain sets in, keep this stop short. For a calmer angle, try The Mall or the park edge instead.
Ask the Concierge
Our Concierge arranges your visit: skip-the-line tickets, a private guide, off-hours access.
Ask the ConciergeFrequently asked questions
- Who lives at Buckingham Palace?
- Buckingham Palace is the British monarch’s official residence in London. It is also used for receptions, audiences and state events. In practice, how it is used can vary with the official calendar and the working needs of the royal household.
- Can you visit Buckingham Palace?
- Yes, but not all year. Interior visits are usually offered only during specific periods, with controlled access and set routes. The safest approach is to check the official website before your trip, especially if this visit is a priority.
- What city is Buckingham Palace in?
- Buckingham Palace is in London, in the heart of the British capital. It sits near St James’s Park, Green Park, Westminster and The Mall. That central location makes it easy to include in a walk through the royal and political district.
- How can you tell if the King is at Buckingham Palace?
- Visitors often look for visible signs at the palace, but they do not always give a simple reading of the royal schedule. For reliable information, official communications are the best source. On site, it is better to think of the palace as a working state residence.
- Is Buckingham Palace free to visit?
- The exterior area and views from the public spaces are free to enjoy. Interior visits are usually ticketed when they are available. Prices and conditions can change, so it is best to confirm current details on the official website before you plan your day.
- What can you see at Buckingham Palace?
- Even without going inside, visitors come for the façade, gates, forecourt and the ceremonial feel of the area. During certain periods, some interior spaces may be open to visitors. Many people also pair the palace with the Changing of the Guard and a nearby park walk.
- How much time should you allow for a visit?
- For exterior views and a few photos, a short stop is often enough. If you want to see the Changing of the Guard, allow extra time for waiting and crowds. If interior visits are open, the total time depends on the route offered that day.