Buckingham Palace is the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch, and one of the few working royal palaces in the world open to visitors. Built around a townhouse acquired in 1761, it became the sovereign’s principal residence in 1837 and now anchors the ceremonial heart of London.
Each summer the lavish State Rooms open to the public, revealing gilded interiors, thrones and masterpieces from the Royal Collection by artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto. Visits include a multimedia guide and access to a special seasonal exhibition, and tickets are released for timed entry slots.
Outside, the famous Changing of the Guard takes place in front of the palace railings on selected days, drawing crowds in a display of bearskins and military bands. State Room tours run for roughly two to three hours; book ahead, as the palace opens only for a limited summer season.