Buckingham Palace, London : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Buckingham Palace in London is one of the most emblematic symbols of royal power in the world. Home to the British Royal Family since 1837, the palace is an architectural masterpiece with a fascinating history. From the Changing of the Guards to the State Rooms, visitors to the palace can expect to explore a range of interesting facts, information and even take guided tours. This guide covers everything you need to know about Buckingham Palace, London from its history to the best places to get tickets and the events taking place throughout the year. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, don’t miss your chance to visit the famous Buckingham Palace in all its grandeur.

Interesting Facts About Buckingham Palace, London

1. Buckingham Palace was not the first official residence of the monarch – it was Windsor Castle.
2. The palace built in 1702 and underwent several renovations, including the addition of the east wing in 1847 to house Queen Victoria’s growing family.
3. The palace takes up more than 40 acres and has 775 rooms, including 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms.
4. The balcony from which the Royal Family wave to the public on New Year’s Eve, Birthdays, Royal Weddings, and the annual Trooping the Colour ceremonies is known as the “royal balcony”.
5. The palace’s basement plays host to the Royal Mews, where the Queen’s horses, carriages and cars are kept.
6. The palace has its own post office, police department, and medical services.
7. The Queen hosts an annual garden party for 8,000 guests.
8. Beneath the grounds of Buckingham Palace lie hidden underground tunnels and chambers which are regularly used by the Royal Family.
9. The Queen’s Galleries, which opened in 2002, displays the works of art from the Royal Collection.
10. The balcony from which the Royal Family wave to the public on New Year’s Eve, Birthdays, Royal Weddings, and the annual Trooping the Colour ceremonies is known as the “royal balcony”.

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History & Information About Buckingham Palace, London

Buckingham Palace is the official London residence and principal workplace of the British monarch. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is a setting for state occasions and royal hospitality, and has been a focus for the British people at times of national rejoicing and mourning. It stands in over 39 acres of land and has 775 rooms.

Buckingham Palace was first constructed in 1703 by the Duke of Buckingham as a townhouse. It was acquired by King George III in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. Queen Victoria was the first monarch to make the palace her official London residence in 1837. Over the years significant alterations and expansions were made to the palace, making it the size it is today.

Since the Queen’s Accession in 1952, Buckingham Palace has served as a workplace for her and her staff. It hosts the majority of her public and private ceremonial and state events. It welcomes around 50,000 guests each year for Garden Parties, Investitures, and Audiences.

Over the years Buckingham Palace has been host to numerous state visits, including visits from US President Woodrow Wilson in 1918 and Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975. It has also been the backdrop of numerous royal weddings, including the wedding of Prince Albert, Duke of York (the future King George VI) to Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon in 1923 and the wedding of Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981.

The Queen also holds receptions and State Banquets for the heads of state or governments of a foreign country every year, usually in June. The Royal Family also host events at the Palace, including a traditional Garden Party in June and the Christmas Day walkabout in December when members of the public can get a glimpse of the Queen on her way to Church.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Buckingham Palace, London

Buckingham Palace is an iconic and popular tourist destination in London and for those interested in history and architecture it is a great spot to visit.

Getting to Buckingham Palace:

The Buckingham Palace is located in the heart of London, close to Hyde Park. The closest tube station is Victoria Station on the Victoria, Circle and District Lines. Many buses run to Victoria Station and there are public parking facilities nearby.

Opening Hours:

The Buckingham Palace is open to visitors on select days between July and October, as part of the Buckingham Palace Summer Opening. During the Summer Opening, visitors can enter the State Rooms and the Queen’s Gallery.

Ticket Prices:

Entry ticket prices start at £21.00 for adults and £15.00 for children. Discounts are available for seniors and groups. Tickets are available to be purchased online.

What to Expect:

The State Rooms in the Palace are the main attraction. Visitors can admire the interior of the palace, including the Throne Rooms, the White Drawing Room and White Library. There are also permanent and temporary art exhibitions as well as interactive audio guides to help visitors explore the palace.

Nearby Attractions:

The Buckingham Palace is close to other popular sites in London including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London and St James’ Park.

Tips for Visiting:

– Dress appropriately. Shorts or jeans are not allowed and visitors should wear other clothes appropriate for a palace.

– Minimize your belongings and leave backpacks at home, since they are not allowed inside the palace.

– Arrive early because the queues for entry can be long.

– Visit the nearby royal parks for a great view of the palace and to relax.

– Enjoy all the palace has to offer, from the historic art and architecture to the interactive audio guides.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Buckingham Palace, London

Q: Where is Buckingham Palace located?

A: Buckingham Palace is located in the City of Westminster in London, England.

Q: Does Buckingham Palace offer tours?

A: Yes, Buckingham Palace conducts regular tours during the summer months. Visitors can also take part in special tours such as the State Rooms and Garden Tours.

Q: What time is the Changing of the Guard?

A: The Changing of the Guard is a daily ceremony that takes place at 11:30am in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace.

Q: How many rooms are in Buckingham Palace?

A: Buckingham Palace has 775 rooms, 19 state rooms and 52 principal bedrooms.

Q: Are there any restrictions to visit the Palace?
Backpackers, large bags and video cameras are not permitted inside the Palace during the summer opening. Visitors are also asked to respect the property of the Palace and its surrounding gardens.

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