About
Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British monarch, and it sits at the heart of the city's ceremonial life. Its address is London SW1A 1AA, in the City of Westminster, so it is an easy place to pair with other central London sights.
What draws visitors
The palace is best known for the Changing of the Guard, a ceremony in which the guard is relieved in front of the building. It is one of the most recognised pieces of pageantry in the country, and many people plan their day around it. Because the ceremony is an event rather than a fixed schedule, it is worth checking current arrangements before you set out.
- Watch the Changing of the Guard from the railings or nearby viewing areas.
- Walk through the surrounding royal parks and the Mall toward Trafalgar Square.
- Combine the visit with other landmarks in the Westminster area.
Planning your visit
Expect a visit to be largely about the outside of the palace and its setting, with the ceremony as the main draw. Crowds gather in busy periods, so arriving early gives you a better view. For questions about the palace, you can call +44 303 123 7300.
Buckingham Palace suits anyone interested in the British monarchy, royal ceremony or classic London scenery. Combined with a walk through St James's Park or a stop at nearby streets, it makes a full and easy half-day in the centre of the city.