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Contents
Buckingham Palace History | Construction, Architecture & More
Buckingham Palace history explained
William Winde's design for Buckingham House (1703)
In 1703, work began on Buckingham House, designed 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 cozy family home for the royal couple and their kids. Soon, it was dubbed "The Queen's House," and the journey to Buckingham Palace began!
Transformation of Buckingham Palace (1820-1830)
Between 1820 and 1830, King George IV turned Buckingham House into a full-blown palace with architect John Nash at the helm. Nash expanded the building, creating a U-shape with two wings and a grand forecourt featuring a triumphal arch. The ambitious renovations exceeded the budget and sparked tensions with Parliament!
The official residence of Queen Victoria (1837)
In 1837, Queen Victoria became the first monarch to officially live at Buckingham Palace, making it the royal hotspot. 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—but still, it became the heart of royal life!
East Front construction by Edward Blore (1847)
In 1847, architect Edward Blore wrapped up the East Front of Buckingham Palace, sealing the open courtyard and creating the grand façade we know today. Prince Albert's idea for the central balcony allowed the royal family to connect with the public, making the palace both grand and more accessible to all.
Addition of Forecourt (1911)
In 1911, the Buckingham Palace forecourt was created as part of the grand Victoria Memorial scheme. New gates and railings gave it a ceremonial flair, and it quickly became the home of the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. The transformation made the palace a shining 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. The bombing only deepened their bond with the British people, as they stayed in London during the Blitz.
Birth of Prince Charles of Wales (1948)
Prince Charles made his grand entrance on November 14, 1948, at Buckingham Palace, born at 21:14 GMT during the reign of his grandfather, King George VI. Delivered by C-section, he was the first child of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip. A month later, he was christened in the Music Room. Fun fact: He became 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, King George VI, passed away in 1952, Elizabeth became Queen at just 25. Though her coronation came in 1953, her time at Buckingham Palace was the start of a new royal era, symbolizing a return to public life after the war.
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 2-5, there were parades, a concert, and the Queen's balcony appearance, where she thanked the public. The event truly showcased the palace as a vital symbol of the monarchy and its bond with the people.
Buckingham Palace Tickets and Tours
Buckingham Palace Today
After King Charles III took the throne, his primary residence shifted to the 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 of Guards ceremony is one attraction that tourists love to watch. It happens thrice a week outside the palace, where guards exchange duties and take oaths to protect the royal family. On your trip to London, visit Buckingham Palace to see its grandeur and learn more about the attraction!
Inside Buckingham PalaceFrequently Asked Questions about the Buckingham Palace's History
What was Buckingham Palace before it became a palace?
Originally called Buckingham House, it was a large townhouse built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham on land owned privately for 150 years.
Who owns Buckingham Palace?
Buckingham Palace is not the personal property of the Queen. It is an occupied Royal Palace, held in trust by the Crown Estates for future generations.
Who built Buckingham Palace before Queen Victoria?
King George IV appointed John Nash, the Official Architect of the Office of Woods and Forests, to expand Buckingham House. Over the final five years of George IV's reign, Nash transformed the house into the grand, U-shaped structure that became Buckingham Palace.
What unusual project did King James I attempt on the palace grounds?
King James I attempted to cultivate silk worms on the palace grounds by planting mulberry trees to break France's silk monopoly. Unfortunately, the project failed because he used the wrong type of mulberry tree.
What is the significance of the balcony?
The balcony of Buckingham Palace is iconic for royal appearances during crucial events like VE Day and royal weddings. Queen Victoria made the first recorded appearance there in 1851.
Did any monarch die at Buckingham Palace?
Yes, King Edward VII is the only monarch to have been both born and died at Buckingham Palace. He passed away there in 1910.
Who was the first royal to be born at Buckingham Palace?
Though Buckingham Palace became the official royal residence under Queen Victoria in 1837, it was her son, Edward VII, who was the first royal born there in 1841.
