All you need to know about Buckingham Palace opening times

Today

Open 09:30–19:30

Last Admission

17:30

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is open from July 10 to September 28 from 9:30pm to 7:30pm.

Jul 10 TO Aug 31 Timings

Days (Jul 10 TO Aug 31)

TIMINGS

Last Admission

Monday (Today)09:30–19:3017:30
Tuesday09:30–19:3017:30
Wednesday09:30–19:3017:30
Thursday09:30–19:3017:30
Friday09:30–19:3017:30
Saturday09:30–19:3017:30
Sunday09:30–19:3017:30

Sep 1 TO Sep 28 Timings

Days (Sep 1 TO Sep 28)

TIMINGS

Last Admission

Monday09:30–18:3016:30
TuesdayClosed
WednesdayClosed
Thursday09:30–18:3016:30
Friday09:30–18:3016:30
Saturday09:30–18:3016:30
Sunday09:30–18:3016:30

Royal Mews

Nov 3 TO Dec 31 Timings

Days (Nov 3 TO Dec 31)

TIMINGS

Monday (Today)Closed
TuesdayClosed
WednesdayClosed
ThursdayClosed
FridayClosed
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed

Best time to visit the Buckingham Palace

Weekday vs Weekend

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant
Crowded
Very Crowded
Closed

Peak season vs low season

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?

The amount of time visitors spend inside Buckingham Palace can vary depending on their interests and the activities they choose to participate in.

If you're interested in touring the State Rooms, it's recommended to allow at least two hours for your visit. This will give you enough time to explore the State Rooms, which feature historic artworks, furnishings, and other treasures, and learn about their rich history through the audio guides provided.

If you're also interested in visiting the palace gardens, then you may want to allocate an additional hour or two to your visit, especially if you plan to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the scenery.

2-3 hours

Focus on the State Rooms: This self-guided tour through 19 opulent rooms showcasing art, furniture, and royal treasures like the Throne Room and Grand Entrance is the palace's core attraction. Allocate 1.5-2 hours for a leisurely stroll with the audio guide.

4-6 hours

Deepen your Palace Experience: Combine the State Rooms tour with the Royal Mews, home to the Queen's carriages and horses. This adds another 45 minutes to an hour. Consider venturing into the Queen's Gallery, hosting special exhibitions (allow 1-2 hours, depending on the exhibit).

Full day (6+ hours)

Immerse yourself in the royal world, visiting the State Rooms, Royal Mews, the King’s Gallery, and the beautiful Buckingham Palace Gardens. Explore the 16 hectares of landscaped lawns, lakes, and follies at your own pace (1-2 hours recommended).

Frequently Asked Questions about Buckingham Palace opening times

Should I buy Buckingham Palace tickets in advance?

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

Is there a specific entry time for my ticket?

Yes, tours of the Buckingham Palace State Rooms, the King’s Gallery, and the Royal Mews operate on a timed-entry system. When you book your ticket, you'll select a specific entry slot. It's essential to arrive at the visitor entrance (typically at Buckingham Gate) at least 15-20 mins before your allocated time to allow for security checks. Arriving late may result in denied entry

Is Buckingham Palace open all year round?

No, the State Rooms are only open to the public for a limited period each year. This typically includes the summer months (July, August, and September), and on selected dates during spring and winter for special guided tours of areas like the East Wing or the Semi-State Rooms. The King’s Gallery and the Royal Mews, however, are generally open for longer periods, often from Thursday to Monday for much of the year, and daily during the Palace's summer opening.

Do the King’s Gallery and Royal Mews have different hours?

Yes, they do. The King’s Gallery opens from 10am to 5:30pm (last admission 4:15pm) on its open days (typically Thursday to Monday outside of the Palace's summer opening, and daily when the State Rooms are open). The Royal Mews tends to open from 10am to 5pm (last admission 4pm) on its open days, following a similar Thursday to Monday schedule outside of summer, and daily during the summer.

Can I see the Changing of the Guard every day?

No, the Changing of the Guard does not happen daily. The ceremony typically takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. However, the schedule can change due to weather conditions or major state events. The ceremony usually begins at 10:30am, with the relief taking place at 11am at Buckingham Palace. It's strongly advised to check the official Household Division website for the confirmed schedule on your chosen day

How long does it take to explore Buckingham Palace?

A minimum of 2-3 hours are needed to explore Buckingham Palace. If you take guided tours, you will need to spend 90 minutes as the guide takes you through different sections of the palace.

How to get to Buckingham Palace?

You can get to Buckingham Palace via train, underground, bus or car. If you’re driving to the attraction, follow these directions on Maps.

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