Buckingham Palace tour

If you’re heading to London and not planning to visit Buckingham Palace, well… are you even really in London? Home to centuries of royal drama, elegant state affairs, and the Queen’s (now King’s) Guard who absolutely will not crack a smile, Buckingham Palace is one of the city’s most iconic attractions.

But before you join the crowds outside the famous gates or book your entry ticket to the State Rooms, let’s chat about what to expect from your visit, some behind-the-scenes facts, and why turning up in style (we’re talking chauffeur-driven style) might just be the best decision of your trip.

The History Behind the Gates

Buckingham Palace didn’t start life as a royal residence. In fact, it began as a modest townhouse built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703. It wasn’t until King George III (the one from Hamilton, yes) bought it in 1761 for Queen Charlotte that it became known as “The Queen’s House.”

Since then, it’s been transformed, extended, bombed (during WWII), refurbished, and turned into the official London residence of Britain’s monarch.

What to Expect on a Buckingham Palace Tour

Here’s the deal: the palace isn’t open all year round. Tourists can step inside only during a limited window, usually from late July to early October—when the royals are off enjoying Balmoral or another royal retreat.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during these months, you’ll get a chance to explore the State Rooms, part of the working palace used for ceremonial and official events.

The Highlights:

The Grand Staircase – your royal welcome. Think gold, mirrors, and portraits of people who wore tights as formalwear.
The Throne Room – yes, there’s an actual throne (well, thrones plural). It’s also used for royal wedding photos.
The Ballroom – larger than life and dripping with opulence, it’s still used for banquets and investitures.
The Gardens – imagine 39 acres of perfectly kept grounds, with lakes, bees, and even a helicopter pad.

Oh, and there’s a gift shop, naturally. Because even royals appreciate a well-branded fridge magnet.

Fun Facts to Impress Your Travel Companions

The Palace has 775 rooms, including 78 bathrooms. That’s one for every mood.
More than 50,000 people visit every year as guests to banquets, receptions, and parties.
There’s a post office, cinema, doctor’s office, and even a swimming pool inside the palace.
If the Royal Standard flag is flying, it means the King is in residence. If it’s the Union Jack, he’s out.
Changing the Guard happens most days around 11 a.m. – and yes, it’s free to watch.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Visit

Book in advance – tickets sell out fast during the open season.
Arrive early for the Changing the Guard if you want a front-row view.
No photos inside the State Rooms, sorry. But the garden café? Snap away.
Download the multimedia guide or use their app – it’s free and way more interesting than trying to guess who’s in the oil paintings.
Dress smart casual. No one’s checking, but you’ll want to look good in your photos.

Getting There: Go Royal with Premium Chauffeur Service

Now, let’s talk logistics.

London is brilliant. But the tubes get crowded, buses can be slow, and let’s face it – you don’t want to rock up to Buckingham Palace sweaty, stressed, and with three wrong Oyster card taps on your conscience.

That’s where chauffeurz.london comes in.

Why Choose Premium Chauffeur Service?

Door-to-palace service: Get picked up from your hotel, Airbnb, or Heathrow. No navigating the Underground with your phone at 3% battery.
Comfort and class: Ride in style in a luxury vehicle with plush seating, air conditioning, and no weird smells (looking at you, taxi cabs).
Professional drivers: Polite, punctual, and full of local knowledge. Ask them where to get the best fish and chips – they’ll know.
Time-saving: Skip the public transport puzzles and get to the palace on time, stress-free.
Perfect for families or groups: No herding cats across Tube platforms. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

You’re visiting one of the grandest residences in the world. Why not arrive like royalty?

Pair Your Palace Visit With Nearby Gems

You’re in the heart of royal London, so why stop at just one iconic landmark? Make a whole day (or two) of it!

Within Walking Distance:

St James’s Park – a stroll here feels like walking through a living postcard. Plus, you might spot pelicans.
Westminster Abbey – coronations, weddings, and the final resting place of kings, queens, and poets.
The Mall – often used for royal processions. Great for photos and pretending you’re part of a parade.
Horse Guards Parade – watch the mounted troops and enjoy some serious pomp and ceremony.

With a Premium Chauffeur on hand, you can be whisked from one regal stop to another without worrying about directions, delays, or aching feet.

Can You See the King?

Probably not.

While the palace is the King’s official residence, public tours do not include a royal meet-and-greet (we know, rude). But who knows – you might spot a royal car entering or exiting. Just don’t lean too far over the railings!

Buckingham Palace Tour Options

Depending on when you go and what you want to see, there are a few different ticket options:

1. State Rooms Tour

The classic summer experience. Includes the grand interiors and gardens.

2. Exclusive Guided Tour (Winter/Spring)

Small groups, more detailed access. Ideal if you’re visiting outside summer.

3. Royal Day Out

Includes State Rooms, Queen’s Gallery, and The Royal Mews. Basically, the full royal experience in one ticket.

Pro tip: Combine your tickets with other attractions using the Royal Collection Trust website for discounts and smoother booking.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re after sunshine, late July to early September is your sweet spot. The gardens are in full bloom, and the vibe is very “London in a Richard Curtis movie.”

Avoid weekends if you can – midweek tours are less crowded.

Lunch Fit for a Monarch

Once you’ve soaked in the splendour, head to one of these nearby spots for lunch or afternoon tea:

The Goring Hotel – a royal favourite (literally – Kate Middleton stayed here before her wedding).
The Rubens at the Palace – classic British afternoon tea with palace views.
Café in the Garden (inside the Palace) – for a quick bite surrounded by royal blooms.

Your chauffeur can also take you to hidden foodie gems around Mayfair, Soho, or Covent Garden. Just ask – they know the city like the back of their well-gloved hands.

Make It a Royal Day to Remember

Whether you’re a history buff, a casual tourist, or someone who just loves a bit of pomp and pageantry, Buckingham Palace is a must-see. But how you get there, how much you enjoy it, and how much stress you avoid? That’s where the real planning comes in.

So, take the hassle out of your day and book a Premium Chauffeur Service through chauffeurz.london. You’ll not only see London in style—you’ll feel like you belong behind those palace gates.

Final Thought

A visit to Buckingham Palace isn’t just a tour—it’s a brush with centuries of British tradition, grandeur, and royal stories. But with crowds, queues, and London’s occasionally “moody” weather, your experience will be so much better when you leave the travel logistics to the pros.

Skip the Tube. Avoid the hassle. Tour like royalty.

👑 Book your luxury chauffeur ride today at chauffeurz.london and make your London adventure truly majestic.

Ayesha Bano / London Travel /