Explore the Buckingham Palace map before your visit
Navigating the grand royal residence is easy with a detailed Buckingham Palace map. It guides you through the visitor route of the opulent State Rooms and helps you locate the separate Royal Mews and The King’s Gallery, each a distinct zone to explore.
Navigating the State Rooms (currently closed) at Buckingham Palace is a straightforward, self-guided experience designed for a clear flow. You will follow a set, one-way route through the State Rooms, culminating in a walk through a section of the Palace Garden. Using a Buckingham Palace map provided at the entrance will help you orient yourself and identify key highlights along the way.
Be prepared for a significant amount of walking. Towards the end of the tour, a café offers an opportunity to purchase refreshments before you exit. Please note that The Royal Mews and The King's Gallery are separate attractions located nearby, and require different tickets and entrances.
Note: The Summer Opening 2025 has ended for the State Rooms. You can plan your visit for July 2026.
Visitor facilities
A complete Buckingham Palace map of the tour route will show you where to find the following facilities to assist with your visit:
Toilets & baby-changing: Restrooms are located at the end of the tour in the Garden area. Baby-changing facilities are also available in these locations.
Accessibility: The State Rooms are fully accessible via elevators and ramps. Visitors requiring step-free access will use a special route. Manual wheelchairs and folding stools are also available to borrow upon request.
Cloakroom: For security, large bags and suitcases are not permitted inside. There is a cloakroom at the start of the tour where you can check in pushchairs and buggies, as well as large umbrellas.
Refreshments: A Garden Café and an ice cream parlour are situated along the path at the end of the tour, offering snacks and drinks with a view of the Palace Grounds.
Gift shop: A main gift shop is located at the end of the visitor route in the Garden. There is also a dedicated accessible shop for visitors on the step-free route.
Follow the one-way route: The State Rooms tour is a one-way journey. Once you exit into the Garden, you cannot re-enter the Palace, so take your time to explore inside.
Plan your separate visits: The State Rooms, the Royal Mews, and The King's Gallery are all individual attractions with separate entrances. Use a Buckingham Palace map to plot your walking route between them to save time.
Mind the Guard's route: The Changing the Guard ceremony significantly impacts foot traffic around the palace. Consult a Buckingham Palace map of the parade route beforehand to find a good viewing spot and avoid being caught in crowds.
