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History of Buckingham Palace | From humble townhouse to global royal icon

Buckingham Palace, London's regal gem, has been the British monarch's home since Queen Victoria's reign in 1837. What started as Buckingham House in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham became King George III's royal residence in 1761. After major makeovers by George IV in the 1820s, it grew into the majestic palace we know today!

Delve into Buckingham Palace's history with guided tours

Get expert insights from guides who possess in-depth knowledge of the palace's history, architecture, and the Royal Collection. They can provide context or highlight important events that you may miss by walking through the rooms with an audio guide. Your guide can also answer your questions, providing personalized insights and addressing your areas of interest, allowing for a more engaging and informative exploration of the palace.

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Buckingham Palace timeline

Buckingham Palace has a rich history dating back to the early 1700s. Here's a comprehensive timeline that covers all the pivotal moments in Buckingham Palace's history:

  • 1703: Buckingham House was designed by architect William Winde for John Sheffield, the Duke of Buckingham.
  • 1761: King George III bought Buckingham House for £21,000 and transformed it into a royal residence for Queen Charlotte.
  • 1820-1830: When George IV ascended to the throne, he renovated Buckingham House into a grand palace.
  • 1837: Queen Victoria made Buckingham Palace her home, officially establishing it as the royal residence.
  • 1847: Architect Edward Blore completes the palace's new East Front, giving Buckingham Palace its iconic, recognizable look.
  • 1911: The forecourt, where the Changing of the Guard takes place, was added to the palace.
  • 1940: During WWII, Buckingham Palace was bombed multiple times, with significant damage on September 13, 1940, when German raids destroyed the chapel and damaged other areas.
  • 1948: Prince Charles of Wales, the future King of the United Kingdom, is born in Buckingham Palace.
  • 1952: Queen Elizabeth takes the oath as The Queen and moves into the palace with Prince Philip.
  • 2022: Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee is celebrated with grand festivities at Buckingham Palace, further cementing its role as a key royal venue. The same year, the Queen’s coffin was moved from the palace to Westminster Abbey, and millions of people gathered in mourning.
  • 2023: After King Charles III’s coronation at Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace saw balcony appearances and other celebrations.

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Buckingham Palace's history explained

William Winde's design for Buckingham House (1703)

In 1703, work began on Buckingham House by William Winde for the Duke of Buckingham. With its large central block and smaller wings, it was the perfect 18th-century city retreat. Little did they know, this was the first step toward what would become Buckingham Palace!

George III converts Buckingham House (1761)

In 1761, King George III bought Buckingham House for Queen Charlotte, giving it a royal makeover. Originally a private townhouse near St James's Palace, it became a family home for the royal couple and their kids, soon dubbed "The Queen's House."

Transformation of Buckingham Palace (1820-1830)

Between 1820 and 1830, King George IV turned it into a palace with architect John Nash at the helm. He expanded the building, creating a U-shape with two wings and a grand forecourt with a triumphal arch, exceeding the budget and sparking tensions with Parliament!

The official residence of Queen Victoria (1837)

In 1837, Queen Victoria became the first monarch to officially live at Buckingham Palace. Before her, kings and queens preferred St. James's Palace. Victoria and Prince Albert had a few issues with the Palace's design, like not enough space for their growing family!

East Front construction by Edward Blore (1847)

In 1847, architect Edward Blore worked on the East Front, sealing the open courtyard and creating the grand façade. Prince Albert's idea for the central balcony allowed the royal family to connect with the public, making the Palace both grand and accessible to all.

Addition of the Forecourt (1911)

In 1911, the forecourt was created as part of the grand Victoria Memorial scheme. New gates and railings gave it a ceremonial flair, and it became the home of the Changing the Guard ceremony. The transformation made the Palace a symbol of royal heritage and tradition!

Bombing on Buckingham Palace (1940)

On September 13, 1940, during WWII, Buckingham Palace was bombed multiple times, including hits to the Royal Chapel and inner quadrangle. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) were home but unharmed, deepening their bond with the British people.

Birth of Prince Charles of Wales (1948)

Prince Charles was born on November 14 at the palace during the reign of his grandfather, King George VI. He was the first child of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip. A month later, he was christened in the Music Room, becoming the longest-serving heir apparent!

Queen Elizabeth in the Palace (1952)

In 1948, Queen Elizabeth II settled into Buckingham Palace with Prince Philip. After her father passed away in 1952, she became Queen at just 25. Though her coronation was in 1953, her time at Buckingham Palace was the start of a new royal era.

Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth (2022)

In 2022, Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee saw Buckingham Palace shine during her 70-year reign celebration. From June 2 to 5, there were parades, a concert, and the Queen's balcony appearance, where she thanked the public.

Construction of Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace started as Buckingham House, built in 1705 for the Duke of Buckingham. In 1762, King George III bought it for Queen Charlotte and spent £73,000 on extensive remodels by Sir William Chambers. John Nash expanded it in the 1800s, and Edward Blore finished the work in 1837. Sir Aston Webb's 1913 redesign created the iconic façade alongside the Victoria Memorial. With 775 rooms, it became the official royal residence under Queen Victoria, hosting major ceremonies throughout Queen Elizabeth II's reign.

Buckingham Palace today

Buckingham Palace History

After King Charles III took the throne, his primary residence shifted to Clarence House. Buckingham Palace continues to be among his primary residences, but is less visited by The King. However, the Palace has not lost its importance. Given its history, especially during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, the palace is visited by millions of people every year.

The Changing the Guard ceremony is one attraction that tourists love to watch. It happens every day outside the Palace, where guards exchange duties and take oaths to protect the royal family.

Inside Buckingham Palace

Frequently Asked Questions about Buckingham Palace's history

Buckingham Palace is not the personal property of the monarch. It is an occupied Royal Palace, held in trust by the Crown Estates for future generations.

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