The King's Gallery, located in Buckingham Palace's south wing, was opened to the public in 1962 during Elizabeth II's reign. Originally the site of a chapel destroyed in World War II, this gallery now exhibits rotating displays from the Royal Collection, offering the public a glimpse into royal art and history. Keep reading to learn more!

What is the King's Gallery?

Entrance to The Kings Gallery at Buckingham Palace

The King's Gallery, situated in Buckingham Palace, London, operates as a public art venue within the south wing, a site historically marked by the palace chapel destroyed during World War II.
Opened in 1962 by Elizabeth II, the gallery evolved significantly and underwent a major expansion in 2002 during the Queen's Golden Jubilee.
It now features a Doric entrance and considerably more exhibition space. It showcases around 450 works, primarily paintings and drawings from the expansive Royal Collection.
This collection includes notable pieces from the court of Henry VIII and works by Hans Holbein the Younger.
The gallery also hosts interactive workshops and tours, making it a vibrant educational center.

About Buckingham Palace

Quick facts about King's Gallery

Official name: The King's Gallery, formerly known as the Queen's Gallery
Address: Buckingham Palace, London, SW1 United Kingdom
Date of creation: Originally designed in 1831, the gallery was redeveloped in 1962 and then expanded in 2002
Timings: Opens 10am to 5 pm daily, from Thursday to Monday
Architects: John Nash, John Simpson & Partners
Architectural style: Classical style
Function: Public art gallery

Why visit King's Gallery?

The King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace with visitors exploring art exhibits.

Plethora of masterpieces: The King's Gallery is packed with stunning masterpieces from the Royal Collection, featuring works by legends like Raphael, Michelangelo, Holbein, and even Leonardo da Vinci!
Rotating exhibitions: The gallery mixes it up with new exhibitions every few months, exploring everything from royal portraits to funky themes.
Historical significance: This art salon sits on the spot where the palace chapel once stood—it was destroyed during WWII. There is so much history and stories packed into one spot!
Educational opportunities: Want to learn drawing tricks and dive into Renaissance art? The King's Gallery offers fun tours like 'Discovering Drawings' and 'Renaissance Art,' perfect for students to learn new drawing techniques.

Upcoming exhibitions and events at King's Gallery

The Kings Gallery at Buckingham Palace showcasing the Italian Renaissance Exhibition.

Drawing the Italian Renaissance

When: 1 November 2024 - 9 March, 2025

This exhibition illuminates the transformative role of drawing during the Renaissance. The 160 pieces from the Royal Collection feature masterpieces by da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Titian. It shows how drawing went from a workshop tool to an art form, with stunning styles and techniques from across Italy.

women in King's Gallery museum looking at artwork

The Edwardians: Age of Elegance

When: 11 April 2025 - 23 November, 2025

The Edwardian era was all about luxury and social sparkle, and this exhibition gives you a front-row seat! Explore over 300 pieces from the Royal Collection, including works by Fabergé, Sargent, and other top artists, all while learning about the royal lives of Edward VII, Alexandra, George V, and Mary.

Plan your visit to King's Gallery

Opening hours: 10am to 5pm, every day, from Thursday to Monday

Closed on: Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Best time to visit: Visit during the weekday afternoon for a serene gallery visit.

Address: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom

Find on Maps

By Underground: Victoria, Green Park, St. James's Park, and Hyde Park Corner are the closest tube stations, each about a 10-minute walk away.
By Train: The closest train stations are London Victoria, a 10-minute walk away, and London Charing Cross, approximately 20 minutes on foot.
By Bus: Bus routes 11, 211, C1, and C10 serve stops along Buckingham Palace Road. Victoria Coach Station is also conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the Palace.

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Frequently asked questions about King's Gallery

Can I take photographs inside the King's Gallery?

Photography is allowed in most areas of the King's Gallery, but selfie sticks, flashes, and tripods are prohibited. Additionally, photography is only permitted for personal use.

Can I bring outside food and drinks inside the gallery?

Outside food and drinks, except bottled water, are not allowed inside the gallery.

Are pets allowed inside the gallery?

No pets are restricted in the King's Gallery except registered assistance dogs.

Are there any accessibility accommodations at the King's Gallery?

The gallery ensures full accessibility with accessible toilets, seating, D/deaf-friendly scripts, large print texts, and a downloadable guide for autistic visitors.

Are pushchairs allowed in the gallery?

Yes, pushchairs are permitted in the gallery. You can also borrow a baby carrier free of charge.

Is breastfeeding allowed in the King’s Gallery?

Yes, breastfeeding is welcome anywhere within the spaces of the gallery.

How often do the exhibitions change at the King's Gallery?

Exhibitions typically change every few months to showcase different aspects of the Royal Collection.