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All you need to know about Buckingham Palace opening times

Today

Open 09:30–19:30

Last Admission

17:30

Best time to visit the Buckingham Palace

Weekday vs Weekend

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  • Weekdays: Typically offer a calmer visit, especially outside the busiest midday period. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday can also work well if you want to pair your visit with the Changing the Guard ceremony. For a quieter experience, avoid arriving immediately after the ceremony, when crowds can increase around the Palace.
  • Weekends: Can be busier, particularly during the summer opening season. If you visit on a Saturday or Sunday, book your timed entry in advance and allow extra time for security and crowds around the Palace. Early or later entry slots can make it easier to explore the State Rooms at a more relaxed pace.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant
Crowded
Very Crowded
Closed

Peak season vs low season

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  • Peak season (July–August): This is the best time to see the State Rooms and enjoy the Palace gardens at their most vibrant, with seasonal displays from the Royal Collection. Expect the largest crowds around midday and on weekends, so book your timed entry in advance and choose an earlier slot for a more relaxed visit.
  • Low season (November–January): The Palace is quieter, making it easier to explore the surrounding area without summer crowds. The State Rooms are closed, but The King’s Gallery and Royal Mews remain open, giving you alternative ways to experience the royal collections and historic carriage rooms. If seeing the palace interiors is your priority, save your visit for the summer opening.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season
Moderate Season
Peak Season

How long do you need to tour Buckingham Palace?

1.5-2.5 hours

Focus on a single attraction: Dedicate your time to one primary site.

  • The King's Gallery: Allow 1–1.5 hours to fully appreciate the rotating exhibitions of masterpieces from the Royal Collection.
  • The Royal Mews: Spend 45 mins to 1 hour exploring the historic coaches and carriages, including the Gold State Coach.

3-4 hours

Combine two attractions (Half-day): Dedicate a half-day to the Palace grounds by combining two ticketed attractions (e.g., State Rooms and The King's Gallery). This allows for a comprehensive look at royal history, art collections, and gives you time to enjoy a refreshment break.

Full day (4+ hours)

For the complete experience, combine a visit to all three sites (State Rooms, Royal Mews, and The King’s Gallery). You can also immerse yourself in the royal atmosphere by spending extra time viewing the Palace exterior, watching the Changing the Guard ceremony, and strolling through the nearby St. James's Park or Green Park.

If you are visiting when Buckingham Palace is closed, your focus will be on the exterior and surrounding public areas, which are still highly recommended:

  • The Gates and Facade: View the iconic Palace gates and exterior.
  • The Victoria Memorial: This grand monument provides the best vantage point for photos.
  • Changing the Guard: Check the official schedule for this ceremonial event.
  • The Royal Parks: Stroll through St. James’s Park or Green Park for views of the Palace grounds.
  • Total time required: 1–2 hours.

​Inside Buckingham Palace

Frequently asked questions about Buckingham Palace opening times

Yes. As the palace interiors are open for select days in a year, you should not wait to get tickets at the entrance. Buy at least 2 weeks in advance and plan your visit ahead of time to have a great experience.