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- Changing the Guard Ceremony
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Contents
What are Buckingham Palace State Rooms?
- Once just Buckingham House, King George IV gave it a royal makeover in the 19th century, creating the dazzlingly grand State Rooms we know today.
- John Nash's genius turned these rooms into the monarchy's ultimate event space—think glitz and glamour and hosting world leaders at unforgettable banquets and royal gatherings.
- From the regal Throne Room and dance-worthy Ballroom to the art-filled Picture Gallery and elegant White Drawing Room, the State Rooms are like a royal highlight reel. Bonus: The Music Room has seen royal christenings and concerts, too!
- You can explore the State Rooms in summer when the royal family is off on holiday. From July to September, you can walk through all that history and grandeur like a VIP.
Why visit Buckingham Palace State Rooms?
- Bask in royal opulence: When John Nash designed the State Rooms in the 1800s, he blended a Neoclassical style with Italian Renaissance influences. The rooms feature stunning columns, pilasters, and a grand façade, with artworks by masters like Rubens.
- Walk through history: The State Rooms have hosted everything from epic royal weddings to fancy state banquets in the Ballroom and even those cool investiture ceremonies in the Throne Room. Each room has a story, and seeing it in person is way cooler!
- Appreciate artistic treasures: If art's your thing, the State Rooms won't disappoint! You'll find works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Vermeer—each piece is like a VIP pass to see masterpieces that have shaped art history.
- Attend rotating exhibitions: The rotating exhibitions at Buckingham Palace are packed with fresh art and new themes, and if you need more, you can also join special events like workshops and lectures that enrich the experience!
Highlights of Buckingham Palace State Rooms
Buckingham Palace boasts an astounding 775 rooms, each serving a unique purpose. Among them are 19 grand State Rooms used for official events, state banquets, and ceremonies. These rooms are open to the public during the summer months when the royal family is away. Here are some of the staterooms that you must absolutely check out!
The Grand Staircase
Talk about a dramatic entrance! The Grand Staircase at Buckingham Palace is a royal showpiece designed by John Nash with gorgeous gilt bronze details. With portraits lining the walls and frescoes on the ceiling, over 7,000 guests ascend it annually for state events!
The Picture Gallery
The Picture Gallery is where history and art come together! Designed by John Nash, this 47-meter-long room houses Old Master paintings by the likes of Rembrandt and Titian. It's used for royal receptions, with art regularly rotated from the Royal Collection for new experiences.
The Marble Hall
The Marble Hall is a true showstopper! This grand space is located beneath the Picture Gallery and features Canova's Mars and Venus, plus intricate neoclassical architecture. It's where guests first experience Buckingham Palace's elegance before heading into the State Rooms.
The Throne Room
The Throne Room is where royal tradition comes to life! Designed by John Nash, this grand room hosts everything from inaugurations to receptions. The thrones, originally created for Queen Elizabeth's 1953 coronation, were refurbished for King Charles in 2023—such a cool piece of history!
The Ballroom
At 36.6 meters long, the Ballroom is Buckingham Palace's largest room! Designed by James Pennethorne, it's where state banquets and royal events happen. With a beautiful barrel-vaulted ceiling, it has hosted everything from royal balls to concerts by famous composers like Mendelssohn.
The Music Room
Originally called the Bow Drawing Room, the Music Room is a gem at Buckingham Palace. With its high domed ceiling and natural light, it has hosted royal christenings, including King Charles III's, and intimate concerts. It also showcases beautiful decor like Sevres porcelain and Gainsborough's painting.
The White Drawing Room
Used for royal receptions and intimate moments, the White Drawing Room is a vision in white and gold. It features Louis XVI-style furniture, a secret mirror door, and has been the backdrop for the royal Christmas broadcasts and family photos.
State Dining Room
The State Dining Room is where royal dinners shine! Completed during Queen Victoria's reign, it can host up to 50 guests and is known for its stunning decor and impressive dessert centerpieces crafted by the Royal Confectionery.
The Guard Room
The Guard Room is where the King's Guard, part of the British Army's Household Division, preps for duty, surrounded by military memorabilia. It's also where the Changing of the Guard happens, marking a royal tradition of security and ceremony!
Plan your visit to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms
Opening Hours
Getting There
Timings:
- July 11 to August 31, 2024: 9:30am - 7:30pm, with the last admission at 5:15pm.
- September 1 to September 29, 2024: 9:30am to 6:30pm, with the last entry at 4:15pm.
Note: From November 2024 to January 2025, the Palace also offers exclusive guided tours that last 1.5 hours and run from 10:30am to 5pm.
Closed on: December 24 - December 26
Address: London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom
- By train: Southern or Southeastern railway line (London Victoria or London Charing Cross station)
- By tube: Jubilee line (Green Park station), District or Circle line (St. James Park station)
- By coach or bus: Bus numbers 11, 211, C1, and C10 (Victoria Coach Station, a 10-minute walk from the Palace)
- By car: Victoria Car Park or Q-Park Victoria is the nearest car parking.
Book Your Buckingham Palace Tickets
Frequently Asked Questions about the Buckingham Palace State Rooms
What inspired the architectural design of the State Rooms?
The State Rooms were designed by architect John Nash, whose theatrical background greatly influenced the rooms' dramatic style.
Are there any hidden features in the State Rooms?
Yes! The White Drawing Room has a clever hidden door that's camouflaged as a mirror. It allows royal family members to move discreetly between rooms, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the Palace's design.
Is photography allowed inside the State Rooms?
Unfortunately, no. Photography isn't allowed in the State Rooms to help protect the incredible artworks and delicate furnishings from damage.
Can visitors attend any special events in the State Rooms?
Yes! From time to time, special events like lectures and themed tours are held during public openings, giving you a chance to dive deeper into royal history and explore the art and treasures in the State Rooms.
How can visitors access the State Rooms during public openings?
To visit the State Rooms during their summer openings, you need to book tickets in advance for a specific time slot.
Is Buckingham Palace wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the State Rooms are fully accessible to wheelchair users. Step-free access is available with prior booking, ensuring everyone can enjoy the royal experience!
Are there accessible toilets in the State Rooms?
Yes, accessible toilets are located inside the Palace at the start of the Access Route, with additional facilities available in the Garden for your convenience.
