Buckingham Palace London: Official Royal Residence
Buckingham Palace London is one of the most famous buildings in the world and the main home of the British King and Queen. Located in the heart of London, it has been the official residence of the British monarch since 1837, starting with Queen Victoria. The palace is not just a home but also a place where important state events and ceremonies happen. With its grand architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history, Buckingham Palace London attracts millions of visitors every year. It is one of the must places to visit in London.
Originally, the site was a marshy land near the River Tyburn. In 1703, it became Buckingham House London, built by the Duke of Buckingham. King George III bought the house in 1761 for Queen Charlotte, and it became known as the Queen’s House. Later, King George IV decided to expand it into a palace, a task completed by architect John Nash in the early 1800s. So, If you are planning a day trip in London, keep in mind that lineups can be heavy throughout the middle of the day and on weekends, so going early on the weekend or weekday may be your best bet.
Today, Buckingham Palace London has 775 rooms, including the impressive State Rooms used for official events. The Changing of the Guard London ceremony, where soldiers in red tunics and bearskin hats change duty, is a popular attraction. While it remains a working palace, parts of it are open to the public during the summer months, allowing visitors to explore its opulent interiors and extensive art collection.
Buckingham Palace symbolizes the British monarchy and is a key part of the country’s cultural heritage. Get ready as we commence on an unforgettable journey to create lasting memories in one of the world’s most happening cities with Europe tour packages.
Early History
The land where Buckingham Palace London now stands was once a marshy area along the River Tyburn. In the early 1600s, King James I decided to plant a mulberry garden there, hoping to rear silkworms for silk production. However, the project failed because he planted the wrong type of mulberry tree.
In 1624, the land was acquired by Sir William Blake, who built a large house known as Goring House. This property changed hands several times, first being sold to Lord Goring and later to Henry Bennet, 1st Earl of Arlington. The house was then called Arlington House. You can also take a break from exploring these historic sites in London by hanging out in the vast variety of cafes in London.
Buckingham House
In 1703, John Sheffield, later the Duke of Buckingham, acquired the property and built a new house, Buckingham House London, designed by architect William Winde. It was a grand mansion with a large central block flanked by two smaller wings. London remained in the Sheffield family until 1761 when King George III bought it for his wife, Queen Charlotte, to serve as a comfortable family home near St. James’s Palace. It was then referred to as the Queen’s House and provided a more private and informal retreat for the royal family. It is one of the top photography spots In London.
Transformation into the Palace
In the early 19th century, King George IV decided that Buckingham House London should be transformed into a palace. The king appointed architect John Nash to carry out the work. Nash expanded the house into a grand building with three wings surrounding a central courtyard called the Quadrangle. The building was given a neoclassical façade, featuring large columns and elaborate stonework.
This extensive renovation included the addition of several new rooms and the redecoration of existing ones. The grand staircase and the impressive Marble Arch, originally the main entrance to the palace, were some of the notable features introduced during this period. However, the Marble Arch was later moved to its current location near Hyde Park. Some of the traditional resorts & hotels in London are surrounded here.
The construction work was completed in 1837, just in time for Queen Victoria to ascend to the throne. She made Buckingham Palace London her official residence, thus establishing it as the principal royal residence in London. This move marked the beginning of the palace’s central role in British royal life. Most of the best restaurants in London are situated in this area.
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Architectural Features
Buckingham Palace London is an architectural masterpiece that blends various styles, predominantly neoclassical. The most recognizable part of the palace is the East Front, which features the famous central balcony. The royal family uses this balcony to greet the public during significant events and celebrations.
The palace consists of 775 rooms, including:
- 19 State Rooms: These are the grandest rooms in the palace, used for official and state entertaining. They are richly decorated with works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens.
- 52 Royal and Guest Bedrooms: These provide accommodation for the royal family and their guests.
- 188 Staff Bedrooms: These are used by the live-in staff who maintain the palace and support its daily operations.
- 92 Offices: These are used by the Royal Household staff who manage the monarchy’s administrative affairs.
- 78 Bathrooms: These serve both the residents and guests of the palace.
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Notable Rooms and Their Functions
1. The Throne Room
The Throne Room is one of the most important rooms in the palace. It is used for court ceremonies, including investitures where individuals are awarded honors by the monarch. The room is decorated with crimson and gold, and it features two thrones known as the Chairs of Estate, used by the King and Queen.
2. The White Drawing Room
The White Drawing Room is a grand reception room used for official entertainment and gatherings. It is one of the most opulent rooms in the palace, decorated with white and gold and featuring magnificent chandeliers. The room also contains a secret door through which the royal family can enter discreetly.
3. The Ballroom
The Ballroom is the largest room in Buckingham Palace and is used for state banquets, receptions, and official ceremonies. It was added by Queen Victoria in the 1850s to accommodate the growing number of guests at royal events. The room is decorated in a rich red and gold color scheme and features a musicians’ gallery and a large dance floor.
4. The Picture Gallery
The Picture Gallery houses some of the most valuable artworks from the Royal Collection. It was designed by John Nash and is used for receptions and as a setting for formal dinners. The gallery’s walls are adorned with masterpieces by artists such as Van Dyck, Rubens, and Canaletto.
5. The Gardens
The gardens at Buckingham Palace London cover 39 acres and provide a serene environment in the heart of London. They include a large lake, which is home to various waterfowl, and a rose garden. The grounds also feature a tennis court and a helicopter landing area.
The gardens are used for a variety of events, most notably the royal garden parties held each summer. These parties invite around 30,000 guests, including members of the public who have contributed to their communities. The garden parties are a way for the Queen to recognize and reward public service.
The gardens are also home to the annual Buckingham Palace Garden Party, where guests can enjoy tea, sandwiches, and cakes while strolling through the beautiful grounds.
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard London is a traditional ceremony that takes place in front of Buckingham Palace London. It involves the old guard, known as the Queen’s Guard, handing over responsibility for protecting the palace to the new guard. The ceremony is accompanied by a military band that plays a variety of music, including traditional military marches and contemporary tunes. Suggesting some of the best treks in London for your next visit.
The guards wear their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats, and the precision of their movements adds to the spectacle. The ceremony attracts thousands of tourists each year and is a must-see event for visitors to London. Some of the popular Airbnbs in London are situated in this area.
Public Access
Buckingham Palace London opens its doors to the public during specific times of the year. From late July to early October, the State Rooms are open for public tours. These tours allow visitors to explore the opulent rooms and see the art and treasures housed within the palace.
The Queen’s Gallery, located on the west front of the palace, is open to the public year-round. It hosts rotating exhibitions of items from the Royal Collection, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
The Royal Mews, where the royal carriages and horses are kept, is also open to visitors. The Mews houses the Gold State Coach, which is used for coronations and other major state occasions. Visitors can also see the working stables and learn about the history of royal transportation.
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Role of the Palace
Buckingham Palace London serves as the administrative headquarters of the British monarchy. It is the venue for many official events and receptions held by the King or Queen. Some of the key functions include:
- State Banquets: These formal dinners are held in honor of visiting heads of state. They are attended by members of the royal family, government officials, and other dignitaries. The banquets are held in the Ballroom and feature elaborate table settings and menus.
- Investitures: During these ceremonies, individuals are awarded honors such as knighthoods and medals by the monarch. The Throne Room is often used for these events.
- Royal Receptions: These gatherings are held for various organizations, charities, and community groups. They provide an opportunity for the royal family to meet and recognize the contributions of individuals and organizations.
- Official Audiences: The monarch holds meetings with new ambassadors and other dignitaries in the palace. These audiences are an important part of the diplomatic activities of the monarchy.
Buckingham Palace London also plays a central role in national celebrations and ceremonies. One of the most notable events is Trooping the Colour, a grand military parade held each June to celebrate the monarch’s official birthday. During this event, the royal family gathers on the palace balcony to watch the parade and wave to the public.
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Wartime History
During World War II, Buckingham Palace London was bombed nine times. The most significant attack occurred on September 13, 1940, when a bomb destroyed the palace chapel. Despite the danger, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) chose to stay at the palace to show solidarity with the people of London, who were also enduring the Blitz. The royal family’s decision to remain in London during the war endeared them to the public and became a symbol of national resilience.
Modern Day
Today, Buckingham Palace London continues to be a symbol of the British monarchy and a working palace. It is the primary residence of the King or Queen and the center of royal hospitality. The palace is maintained by the Royal Household Property Section, which ensures that the historic building remains in excellent condition.
The palace is also a focal point for British national life. It serves as the backdrop for major royal events, such as weddings, jubilees, and state banquets. It is a place where the British public gathers during times of national celebration and mourning.
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The Future
Buckingham Palace London is currently undergoing a significant renovation project, which began in 2017 and is expected to last for 10 years. This project aims to update the palace’s essential services, such as electrical wiring, plumbing, and heating, to ensure it remains functional and safe for future generations. The work is being done in phases to minimize disruption to the royal family’s activities and public visits.
The refurbishment includes:
- Modernizing the infrastructure: Updating outdated systems to improve energy efficiency and safety.
- Conserving historical features: Ensuring that the palace’s historic and architectural features are preserved
- Improving accessibility: Making the palace more accessible to visitors with disabilities.
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Daily Life of the Royal Family
Living in Buckingham Palace London involves a mix of formal duties and private family time for the royal family.
Can you walk around Buckingham Palace?
While you cannot walk freely around the entire palace, you can visit certain parts during specific times of the year. The State Rooms are open to the public during the summer months, typically from July to October. Additionally, the gardens can be toured as part of the summer opening. The exterior of the palace and the nearby St. James’s Park are accessible year-round, allowing for pleasant walks around the palace grounds.
How long does it take to tour Buckingham Palace?
A typical tour of Buckingham Palace lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. This duration includes exploring the State Rooms, special exhibitions, and the gardens during the summer opening. Visitors are advised to allow additional time for security checks and any potential waiting periods.
Can you take pictures in Buckingham Palace?
Photography is not allowed inside Buckingham Palace. This rule helps to protect the privacy of the royal family and the security of the palace. However, visitors are welcome to take pictures of the palace’s exterior and the gardens.
How much is Buckingham Palace worth?
Buckingham Palace is estimated to be worth around £4.9 billion. This valuation considers its historical significance, prime location in central London, and its status as a working royal residence.