Should You Tour Buckingham Palace?

Expect a fairly formal visit through about 19 ornate State Rooms filled with royal art, chandeliers, porcelain, and heavy furniture. The self-guided audio tour moves you along at a steady pace; it takes roughly 45-60 minutes inside. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is often paired with it: you’ll stand in a crowd outside first, then enter once the pageantry finishes. It’s impressive if you care about royal history and decor, but can feel crowded and somewhat rushed in peak months.

Best time is July to September when the palace interiors are open to the public. Avoid deep winter if you dislike short grey days. Expect to pay around £30-£65 per adult depending on whether you choose a basic timed ticket, a guided option, or a combo that includes the Changing of the Guard and gardens. Kids and seniors get modest discounts.

Honest tip: book the earliest available slot to beat the biggest crowds and have a quieter walk through the rooms. Skip the overpriced official gift shop unless you really want souvenirs; instead spend time afterward in the adjacent Green Park or St James’s Park, which are free and far more relaxing.