Visitors FAQs 2026

Tickets can be purchased through various websites online as well as through the official Royal Collection Trust website. It is recommended to book in advance as slots tend to fill up quickly.

Buckingham Palace is open to the public during the summer months, usually from July to September.
The specific dates can vary each year.

Dates for 2026 are 9th of July to the 27th of September

Visitors can explore the State Rooms, the Kings Gallery, and the Royal Mews. During summer opening, visitors can also enjoy the palace gardens.

Yes, guided tours are available and provide detailed information about the history and significance of the palace and its rooms.

Photography is not permitted inside the State Rooms to protect the artworks and furnishings. However, photography is allowed in the palace gardens.

A visit usually takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, including time spent exploring the State Rooms and the gardens.

Yes, Buckingham Palace is wheelchair accessible, and there are facilities available for visitors with disabilities, including accessible toilets and assistance services.

Yes, there is a Garden Café and a Royal Collection Trust gift shop available to visitors during open seasons.

The Changing of the Guard takes place outside Buckingham Palace and is free to watch. It usually occurs at 11AM or 3PM on most days, weather permitting. The Changing of the Guard ceremony schedule is available to view here including time, dtae and which British Army units are involved on the day of your visit.

The State Rooms are lavishly decorated rooms used for official royal events and ceremonies, open to the public during summer openings. Find out more about the State rooms at Buckingham Palace

The original building was constructed in 1703, and it became an official royal residence in 1837 with Queen Victoria.

The palace has 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, and 92 offices.

Yes, the palace gardens are open to visitors during the summer State Room openings, and guided garden tours may also be available.

There’s no formal dress code, but visitors are encouraged to wear respectful attire when touring the palace.

The Palace is easily accessible via public transport. Nearby Underground stations include Green Park, Victoria, and Hyde Park Corner.

During royal events such as Trooping the Colour or state visits, ceremonies often take place on the Palace grounds and balcony appearances are made by the Royal Family.

Nearby attractions include St. James's Park, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the Churchill War Rooms. The Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum are also a short distance away, offering more cultural and historical experiences.