Buckingham Palace

The official residence of the British Royal Family; the State Rooms open to visitors only seasonally (usually summer); the Changing of the Guard is one of London's most famous free events.
Plan the visit
Use this quick decision guide to place Buckingham Palace inside a realistic London day. The key variables are visit length, crowd level, booking needs and what is nearby—not a generic “must-see” label.
Before you go
- Recheck the official hours and price shortly before you go; both can change after our review date.
- Save the location offline and allow extra time at entrances during peak periods.
- Check the weather and carry sun or rain protection for the outdoor portion.
- Arrive near opening time when possible to reduce queues and crowd pressure.
- Open the exact map location
Common questions
How long should I allow for Buckingham Palace?
Allow about 30–120 min. Add extra time for queues, security checks, photos and nearby stops.
Do I need to book Buckingham Palace?
Usually not required. Availability and entry rules can change, so verify again close to your visit.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning is the most practical starting point in our itinerary data. Expected crowd level: Busy.
Best time to visit: early morning · Expected crowd level: High · Not suited to a rainy day (a fully outdoor activity) · May not suit the winter season