Discover the grandeur of The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace, the heart of the British monarchy. These opulent rooms are where the Queen and members of the Royal Family receive and entertain their guests on State, ceremonial, and official occasions. The State Rooms are furnished with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including exquisite paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Vermeer, stunning English and French furniture, and intricate tapestries and porcelains. Visitors can explore 19 of these magnificent rooms, each with its unique character and function, marveling at the exquisite works of art and the intricate design details of each room. The tour brings history alive and gives an insight into the modern workings of the palace.
The Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace provides visitors with the opportunity to view changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. These exhibitions often feature works of art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, and rare artifacts, that have been collected by the British Royal Family over centuries. The exhibits vary throughout the year, offering fresh experiences to repeat visitors. The well-curated displays include audio-visual aids and educational materials to provide context and history to the pieces showcased, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the significance of the art and objects on display. This gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and those keen to get a deeper understanding of the Royal Collection and its history.
The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace is responsible for all road travel arrangements for The Queen and members of the Royal Family. Visitors can explore the working stables and see the collection of royal carriages and motor vehicles, including the Gold State Coach, which has been used for every coronation since George IV's in 1821, and the Diamond Jubilee State Coach. A visit to the Royal Mews offers insight into the history of royal transportation and the ongoing care and preservation of the vehicles. During the guided tour, visitors can also meet some of the Royal Horses and learn about the roles they play in the ceremonial duties of the Royal Household.
The iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace is an experience steeped in tradition and pageantry. Taking place in the forecourt of the Palace, this colorful ceremony involves a new guard exchanging duty with the old guard, all accompanied by music and precise military drills. The guards, dressed in traditional red tunics and bearskin hats, are members of the Queen's Guard and are selected for this honor from one of the regiments of Foot Guards in the British Army. The ceremony represents a formal handover of responsibility for the safety of the Palace and is a vivid display of British pomp and circumstance that attracts visitors from around the world.
The Buckingham Palace Gardens are a serene sanctuary in the heart of London and span a vast 39 acres. They include more than 350 different types of wildflowers, over 200 trees, and a beautiful 3-acre lake. On the guided tour, you can stroll along the winding paths and appreciate the landscape, which has been designed over the centuries by several esteemed gardeners and architects. You'll also see the famous 19th-century lake created by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The gardens are not only aesthetically pleasing but are also a haven for wildlife. They play host to many native British birds and other wildlife species, offering a unique opportunity to explore a more natural side of the monarchy's residence.
The Royal Day Out is a comprehensive ticket that offers visitors an in-depth Buckingham Palace experience. This ticket includes access to The State Rooms, The Queen's Gallery, and the Royal Mews. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the opulence and heritage of the British monarchy. The visit starts off at The State Rooms with their breathtaking interiors and royal artifacts, followed by The Queen's Gallery, which houses a selection of the Royal Collection's finest pieces of art, and concludes with the historical conveyances at the Royal Mews. This is an unforgettable day-long exploration, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the life of the British royal family.
Complete your Buckingham Palace visit with a quintessential British tradition – afternoon tea. The Garden Café offers the perfect setting to relax and reflect on your royal experience. Set within the palace gardens, you can enjoy a selection of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a range of pastries alongside a choice of tea, coffee, or Champagne. The peaceful surroundings and the sheer indulgence of the tea selection make this a must-do for visitors looking for that extra special touch to their day. It's not just a meal; it's a moment to cherish as you take in the beauty and history around you.
Engage with the Royal Collection in a unique and creative way through the Buckingham Palace Art Workshop. These workshops are designed for people of all artistic skill levels and provide an opportunity to learn new techniques inspired by the art and objects you'll see in the State Rooms and the Queen's Gallery. Expert instructors lead the sessions, and all materials are provided. Whether you're a budding artist or simply looking for a new way to connect with the incredible wealth of art at Buckingham Palace, these workshops provide a hands-on and memorable addition to your visit.
Especially designed for families, the Multimedia Tour of Buckingham Palace is an engaging way for visitors of all ages to learn about the Palace's history and its role today. This interactive guide takes you and your family through the State Rooms with fun and informative commentary tailored to pique the curiosity of younger visitors. It provides games, videos, and facts at touchpoints throughout the tour, ensuring that children and adults alike remain captivated. The family tour makes a visit to Buckingham Palace an educational and enjoyable experience for the entire family and adds a fun twist to exploring the home of the British monarch.
For those wanting a focused look at the Buckingham Palace Gardens, the Garden Highlights Tour is the perfect option. A knowledgeable guide leads this tour, offering interesting anecdotes and historical facts about the gardens' design, plant life, and role in the palace's history. Usually only open to the public during the summer, the tour provides an exclusive opportunity to see where the Queen hosts her annual garden parties and to explore areas that are typically reserved for royalty and their guests. The carefully manicured lawns, flowerbeds bursting with color, and tranquil atmosphere make this tour an enriching experience for nature lovers and history buffs alike.