A Quick Look at Buckingham Palace’s Royal History
When you go on a tour of Buckingham Palace, you’re not just stepping into a royal residence—you’re walking through centuries of British history. Originally built in 1703 as Buckingham House for the Duke of Buckingham, the estate was purchased in 1761 by King George III as a private home for his wife, Queen Charlotte. It became known as the “Queen’s House” and was used as a royal family retreat.
It was King George IV who envisioned transforming the house into a grand palace, and he commissioned architect John Nash to redesign it in the 1820s. However, the palace didn’t officially become the monarch’s residence until 1837, when Queen Victoria took up residence, making it the administrative and ceremonial heart of the British monarchy.
Today, the palace has 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, and over 180 staff bedrooms! From royal christenings to historical announcements, every corner of the palace tells a story. A tour of Buckingham Palace allows visitors—especially Pinoy travellers—to experience this rich heritage firsthand, turning a simple visit into a truly royal moment.
Visiting London soon for a holiday?
For many Filipinos, a visit to Buckingham Palace ranks high on the bucket list—and for good reason. As the official residence of the British monarch, this iconic landmark stands as a symbol of the United Kingdom’s rich history, pageantry, and enduring royal tradition. Touring the Palace isn’t just about seeing lavish rooms and golden chandeliers; it’s about stepping into a living piece of British heritage. From the famous Changing of the Guard to the opulent State Rooms open during the summer, Buckingham Palace offers an experience that’s both majestic and deeply memorable. Whether you’re a first-time traveller eager to explore the UK or a balikbayan reconnecting with your love for travel, this guide is packed with practical tips and insider advice to help you make the most of your royal adventure.
Buckingham Palace Openings 2025
Buckingham Palace opens to visitors each summer. This year the dates are 10th of July till 28th September 2025.
Buckingham Palace is open 7 days a week during July and August. During September the Palace is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
| Summer | Opening time | Last admission | Closing time |
| 10 July – 31 August 2025 | 9:30 | 17:30 | 19:30 |
| 1 – 28 September 2025 | 9:30 | 16:30 | 18:30 |
As part of ongoing maintenance work at Buckingham Palace, a few rooms will be closed during the 2025 Summer Opening. Visitors won’t be able to enter the State Dining Room, Blue Drawing Room, and Music Room this year. Also, part of the Bow Room will be covered due to construction, but you’ll still walk through it to reach the garden though.
The good news? Two rooms will be open to the public for the first time ever—the elegant 1844 Room and the Carnarvon Room have been added to the tour route, making your tour of Buckingham Palace even more special!
Guided Tours during Winter and Spring
From November to May the Palace opens on selected dates only for small guided tours.
Tours start at various times 10:30 – 15:00. You can view the through this link : latest availability for guided tours.
How to Visit Buckingham Palace?
Proper research, reading and planning ahead of time is always the key for a successful tour of Buckingham Palace. Here’s how to make the most out of your visit:
- Book Tickets in Advance
Tickets for the State Rooms usually go on sale from April. It’s best to book early online via the official Royal Collection Trust website. - Choose the Right Tour Option
You can opt for just the State Rooms or get combo tickets including the Royal Mews and Queen’s Gallery. - Bring Valid ID
Especially for discounted or family passes. Some discounts may apply to students or senior citizens.
** There are reminders below that you should follow as well before your tour. Please read them carefully and do.
Types of Tours at Buckingham Palace
Depending on the time of year and how deep you want to explore, there are a few specific tour options:
- The State Rooms Tour (Summer Only)
Offered from July to September, this tour takes you inside the lavish State Rooms used for royal ceremonies and official entertaining. Fantastic chandeliers, artwork, and grand staircases. Tickets often include access to the gardens afterward. This year the dates are 10 July – 28 September 2025.
- The Royal Day Out
This combo ticket includes the State Rooms, the Royal Mews (home to royal carriages and horses), and The Queen’s Gallery (which showcases art from the Royal Collection). Great if you want the full royal experience in one go.
- The Garden Guided Tour
A more exclusive option, this guided walking tour explores the private Palace gardens, including the lake, rose garden, and wildflower meadow. Includes photo-friendly moments you won’t get on the regular State Rooms tour.
- The Changing of the Guard (Free, Outside Only)
While not a ticketed tour, this ceremonial event is a must-see. Arrive early for a front-row view near the gates. It’s held on most days during summer and every other day in winter.
What to Do at Buckingham Palace
A tour of Buckingham Palace isn’t just about taking selfies outside the gates—there’s plenty to see and do! Here are the highlights:
- Exploring the State Rooms
One of the main highlights of any tour of Buckingham Palace is exploring the magnificent State Rooms. These rooms are used by the royal family for official ceremonies, receptions, and state banquets—and the experience of walking through them is like stepping into a royal storybook.
Each room is richly decorated with luxurious furnishings, gilded ceilings, and sparkling chandeliers. You’ll see masterpieces from the Royal Collection, including artworks by world-renowned painters like Rembrandt, Rubens, Canaletto, and Van Dyck.
Don’t miss the Throne Room, where official portraits and ceremonial photos are taken, and the White Drawing Room, considered one of the most elegant rooms in the Palace—often used as a royal reception area. The Ballroom, the largest room in the palace, is especially awe-inspiring with its grandeur and history of hosting state banquets for visiting heads of state.
A visit to the State Rooms offers more than just beauty; it’s a window into royal life, British history, and timeless craftsmanship. Be sure to book early—tickets sell out fast, especially during peak summer days!
- See the Changing of the Guard
One of the most iconic traditions in London. Get there early to secure a spot, and don’t forget your camera!
Changing the Guard takes place, weather permitting, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from 11:00, and on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday at 15:00. The event is organised by the soldiers of the Household Division of the British Army. Dates and times can change though, so its recommended to check the Household Division website for further details. Make sure you arrive well in advance of the ceremony to find a good spot, as the area around the Victoria Memorial, St James’s Park and the Mall can become very busy at these times.
- Walk Through the Royal Gardens
If you’re lucky enough to visit during the Summer Opening, your tour of Buckingham Palace will end with a peaceful walk through the Royal Gardens—a rare privilege for visitors. Often referred to as the largest private garden in London, this 39-acre green space is a hidden gem right in the heart of the city.
Expect beautifully landscaped lawns, a 3-acre lake, colourful flower borders, and over 350 types of wildflowers. You’ll also see rare trees, a rose garden, and the famous Waterloo Vase, a massive ornamental urn with a unique history. The garden offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to relax while still soaking in the royal atmosphere. It’s a quiet, elegant and surely a memorable way to end your palace visit.
- Visit the Queen’s Gallery and Royal Mews
Open all year round, the Queen’s Gallery and Royal Mews are perfect add-ons to your tour of Buckingham Palace, especially if you’re visiting outside the summer season.
At the Queen’s Gallery, you’ll find rotating exhibitions featuring priceless artworks from the Royal Collection, one of the largest and most important art collections in the world. Expect paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Canaletto, and even personal sketches by royal family members. The exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to see—perfect for art and history lovers.
Meanwhile, the Royal Mews is where the royal family’s carriages, horses, and official vehicles are kept. One of the main highlights is the spectacular Gold State Coach, used in coronations since 1762—including King Charles III’s. You’ll also see the more modern Diamond Jubilee State Coach and the elegant horses that still play an active role in royal events. It’s a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how royal ceremonies come to life.
Best Time for a Tour of Buckingham Palace
Choosing the best time for your tour of Buckingham Palace depends on what kind of experience you’re hoping to have—exploring the grand interiors, witnessing royal traditions, or simply taking stunning photos.
Summer (July to September)
This is the only time of the year when the State Rooms are open to the public, making summer the most popular season for a tour of Buckingham Palace. You’ll get the rare chance to walk through the lavish halls where royal ceremonies and receptions take place. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher ticket demand—especially in August. Booking in advance is highly recommended. Despite the busy season, many say it’s the most rewarding time to visit.
Spring and Autumn
While the State Rooms remain closed during these seasons, spring and autumn offer milder weather, making them perfect for outdoor sightseeing. You can still enjoy the Changing of the Guard, take in the Palace’s grand façade, and stroll through nearby landmarks like St. James’s Park and The Mall. The gardens are especially beautiful in spring with blooming flowers, while autumn offers a cozy backdrop of golden leaves.
Early Morning or Weekdays
If you prefer a quieter experience and fewer people in your photos, aim for a weekday visit early in the morning. Arriving before tour groups and peak tourist hours gives you more freedom to explore the area at your own pace. It’s also the best time to enjoy views of the Palace and surrounding monuments without the usual crowds.
Visitor Guidelines: Please Read Before Your Tour of Buckingham Palace
- On arrival, you and your belongings will be subject to airport-style security checks. Try to bring as little as possible with you as it will help you to get through security screening more quickly.
- Remove all metal objects from your pockets before going through the security arch. Pacemakers, hearing aids and other electrical or electronic equipment needed for health reasons are allowed.
- Backpacks may not be worn and large items may not be carried inside the Palace. Bags larger than 45cm × 20cm × 30cm cannot be taken into the Palace at all. Luggage storage can be found nearby, including at Victoria Station.
- Handbags and small backpacks are permitted inside, but must be carried by your side and not worn on your back during your visit.
- Animals will be not be admitted.
- Neither smoking nor vaping (the use of electronic cigarettes) are permitted anywhere in Buckingham Palace or Gardens.
- Long umbrellas must be checked in on arrival and reclaimed at the end of your visit.
- Pushchairs and buggies (baby-carriers and hip-carriers are available to borrow, subject to availability) must be checked in on arrival and reclaimed at the end of your visit.
- Drones are not permitted.
- Strictly no photography or filming at all is permitted inside Buckingham Palace.
- Eating and drinking are not permitted inside Buckingham Palace, with the exception of bottled water.
- Toilets and baby-care facilities are located at the end of the route through the Palace. There are no toilet facilities at the start of the visitor route.
- For more detailed instructions, click here. Your tour of Buckingham Palace
A Regal Experience for Every Filipino
A tour of Buckingham Palace is more than just a tourist activity—it’s a great cultural experience that allows every Filipino visitor to feel connected to British heritage and royalty. Whether you’re into architecture, history, or just want to tick off a bucket-list destination, this royal adventure will not disappoint.
Again, no matter when you go, proper planning of your tour of Buckingham Palace with the right timing ensures you get the most out of this royal adventure.
So next time you’re in London, don’t just pass by. Go on a full tour of Buckingham Palace and live your own little piece of royal life—even just for a day.
Ready to plan your own royal journey? Book your tour of Buckingham Palace today and turn your UK trip into a story worth telling back home in the Philippines!
And when it comes to getting there, let Mabuhay Travel take care of you—offering the best deals and friendly service for flights from the UK to the Philippines and beyond. Secure your flights with the only award-winning Filipino travel specialist in the UK, and make your dream trip fit for royalty.
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