Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British monarch, a grand palace of some 775 rooms facing down The Mall behind its famous railings and forecourt. The ceremonial Changing of the Guard draws crowds to watch the red-coated, bearskin-capped soldiers, and each summer, when the monarch is away, the opulent State Rooms of gilt, chandeliers and royal art open to visitors.

What you'll find

• The Changing of the Guard - the ceremony of the red-coated guards.
• The State Rooms - the opulent staterooms, open in summer.
• The forecourt and railings - the famous facade down The Mall.
• The Royal Mews and gallery - the state coaches and the King's Gallery.

When to go

The State Rooms open only in summer, roughly July to September, when the monarch is away, so time your visit for those months to go inside; the exterior and guard ceremony can be seen year-round. Check the Changing of the Guard schedule, as it varies.

Things to know

The lavish State Rooms open only in summer and must be booked; outside that window the interior opens only on occasional small-group guided tours, otherwise you see the exterior. The Changing of the Guard is popular and does not run every day, so check the schedule and arrive early for a view over the crowds. Flag-watchers note the Royal Standard flies when the monarch is in.

Nearby

St James's Park, Green Park and The Mall surround it; Westminster is a walk away.

Key facts