Local Guides

Why visit Buckingham Palace

Nestled in the heart of London, Buckingham Palace is the jewel of the British crown estate that opens its door to visitors every summer. The good news is there is always something going on at the Palace! 

Discover Buckingham Palace State Rooms – The Throne Room, The White Drawing Room or even the Ballroom – each decorated with fine furniture, paintings and treasures. Here are a few more reasons to visit Buckingham Palace.

Discover or rediscover the spectacular State Rooms

There are nineteen State Rooms at Buckingham Palace which are used as main reception chambers by The King and members of the Royal Family for official ceremonies, diplomatic visits and personal occasions. Key moments in the Royal Family happened within the walls of these beautiful rooms, and with such a rich royal history, there are plenty of treasures not to miss.

© Royal Collection Trust

An easy audio-guided tour

Enjoy the Tour at your own pace with an audio multimedia guide that explains the history of the palace and the various rooms within the State Rooms. At the end of your tour, you’ll walk along the south side of the Palace Garden, where you’ll meet your guide before the next part of your Royal journey.

See the Gold State Coach at the Royal Mews

The Royal Mews or stables are waiting for you at Buckingham Palace to discover what it takes to keep Britain’s Royal Family on the move. The Royal Mews are the world’s most impressive working stables, where the gilded Gold State Coach is displayed. Commissioned by George III in 1762, it has been used at every coronation since 1821. On 2nd June 1953, it was also fitted for the day with a hologram of Her Majesty when she took the short hop to Westminster Abbey for her Coronation ceremony.

© Royal Collection Trust

Indulge with a hot drink and a bite at The Garden Café

After you visit the State Rooms, make your way to The Garden Café located on the West Terrace of Buckingham Palace. Relax and treat yourself to a selection of light bites, cakes and hot and cold drinks overlooking the Gardens. A few tasty ice cream booths are set around the garden to make both adults and kids happy!

There are even activities for kids

The Palace offers a free multimedia guide version for children where Alice the Footman and Rex the Corgi describe anecdotes during the State Rooms tour. Bring your kids to the Family Pavilion on the terrace outside as you finish the tour. There are creative activities and appealing spaces to play to entertain your children.

Book a five-star afternoon tea a few steps away from Buckingham Palace

Want to add something special to your tour? Make your way to The Rubens at the Palace Hotel near the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace to enjoy traditional afternoon tea in the Palace Lounge while overlooking The King’s stables. Watch the comings and goings of the royal carriages as you dine on a selection of sumptuous sandwiches, delectable, fresh-made pastries and traditional scones with clotted cream and fruit preserves.

© The Rubens at The Palace Hotel