The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour
Get rare summer access to the royal State Rooms, only open a few weeks each year!
With Buckingham Palace’s limited access and high-demand tickets, a visit can quickly become challenging. Secure privileged access entry to this royal icon and step into the regal rooms most only see on TV, listening to tales of palace intrigue and power, from Queen Charlotte’s private refuge to King Charles III’s official quarters. Wander the Mall and St. James’s Park as your guide shares the monarchy’s deepest secrets. This isn’t just a tour, it’s your VIP pass to the royal world!
What You Get With This Tour
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Expert, English-speaking guide
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Entry to Buckingham Palace
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Audio guide for the palace
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Guided tour of St. James's Park and Mall
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Guide tips
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Transport
Tour Itinerary
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1
Your tour begins at St. James's Square
You'll meet your friendly guide at the equestrian statue of William III in the heart of St. James's Square. After quick introductions with your small group of fellow travelers, you'll set off to explore London's most regal neighborhood. -
2
St. James Park
Next, you'll stroll through London's oldest Royal Park, a stunning 57-acre oasis that was once King Henry VIII's private hunting ground in the 16th century. Your guide shares fascinating stories as you walk along peaceful pathways and past tranquil ponds, learning how this serene space evolved from a 13th-century leper colony into a royal retreat. -
3
The Mall
You'll then walk along the famous Mall, the grand ceremonial route used by the Royal Family during official processions and the Changing of the Guard. Your guide brings this iconic road to life with tales of royal pageantry and historical significance, helping you imagine gilded carriages rolling past. -
4
Buckingham Palace gates
Standing before the palace's opulent iron gates, you'll admire the intricate gold details while your guide shares insider stories about the monarchy. This is where your guided portion concludes—your guide will help you get set up with your audio guide and verify your entry tickets before you head inside. -
5
Palace State Rooms
You'll ascend the grand staircase and step into the lavish State Rooms, only open to visitors for a few weeks each year. These ornate chambers are where the Royal Family entertains distinguished guests, and you'll walk through spaces adorned with world-class paintings and vintage furniture dating back to the 1800s. -
6
White Drawing Room and Ballroom
As you continue through the palace, you'll discover elegant rooms like the White Drawing Room and the grand Ballroom. Your audio guide reveals the stories behind these magnificent spaces and the royal traditions that have taken place within their walls. -
7
Throne Room
One of the most impressive stops is the crimson-red Throne Room, where you'll see the iconic Chairs of Estate used by Queen Victoria herself. Standing in this regal space, you'll feel the weight of centuries of British history and empire. -
8
Your tour finishes inside Buckingham Palace
Your self-guided exploration ends whenever you're ready to leave. Take your time soaking in the royal atmosphere and exploring the palace at your own pace, there's no rush to leave this extraordinary glimpse into the British monarchy.
Additional Information
Good to know:
Accessibility: Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Bag Policy: You'll need to store any strollers or large bags before entering security at Buckingham Palace, so it is best not to bring them. Smaller bags and purses are allowed. Water bottles are allowed, but food and drink cannot be consumed inside the palace.
Tour Changes: Itineraries are subject to change depending on Buckingham Palace operations.
Please Note: No guides are permitted inside Buckingham Palace. After your guided tour of St. James Park and the Mall, your guide will lead you to the correct entrance, verify your tickets, and provide you with your audio guides for your self-guided tour.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can enter sites on time.
Your 2.5-hour tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Walking tour of St. James’s Park and the Mall
Admission ticket to Buckingham Palace
Audio guide for palace tour
Maximum group size of 20
What to bring:
Comfortable walking shoes
Camera
Water bottle
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Customer Reviews
This was an amazing tour made even more enjoyable by our lovely guide, Sophie. She was incredibly knowledgeable about the historical sites we visited while at the same time very lovely and entertaining! I highly recommend this tour.!
This was the best tour I have ever been on. We were greeted by Sophie holding up a red 🚩 red flag on a pole. She was so enthusiastic and knowledgeable and answered all historic questions. Thank you for a great tour. Regards, Dave.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Please wear comfortable shoes as this is a walking tour.
Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?
Photography is not allowed inside the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace, which is where most of your tour occurs.
What to bring?
Please wear comfortable shoes as this is a walking tour.
Does this include a guided tour of the palace?
Due to palace restrictions, no tour guides are allowed to accompany groups into the palace. After your guided tour of St. James Park and the Mall, your guide will lead you to the correct entrance, verify your tickets, and provide you with your audio guides for your self-guided tour.
Will we get to see the Changing of the Guard?
This tour has a timed entry at mid-morning, which means you'll be inside the palace during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. You can also book our Changing of the Guard and Westminster tour if you’re really hoping to witness that ceremony.
Can I bring a stroller or backpack?
There is a security check before entering Buckingham Palace. You'll need to store any strollers or large bags at the check-in before entering security. Smaller bags and purses are allowed. Water bottles are allowed, but food and drink cannot be consumed inside the palace.
Why don't I see any availability for this tour?
Buckingham Palace is only open for a few weeks and certain days in July and August. If you’re interested in the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, check out our Westminster tours that run all year long.
