Buckingham Palace Tour
My recent obsession with the royal family was reignited when the Netflix series the Crown made its appearance in November of 2016. The scenery and set designs had me wrenching for a the chance to step foot in Buckingham Palace and experience its splendor for myself. So, upon my arrival in London, I was determined to go through this ‘well-known’ and dramatized palace.
Once I got the chance to go into the palace along with a group of my close friends and peers, I was and still am in awe of what I saw. Even entering the gates and going through security in order to get into the palace as one stunned. Each room from head to toe is intricately designed and one could spend hours wandering around a mere small hallway or stand with head tilted high on a staircase to take in the ceiling above them. Without a doubt, the architecture is indescribably beautiful and impossible to put into words. And for anyone
who love interior design, I warn you, you will most likely only get a few feet in before you begin to gasp.
As a history lover, I was only disappointed that I didn’t have enough time in the day to read all the descriptions of the many countless objects in the palace. The audio guide, which is free, is well put together and explained each of the rooms one steps foot in, along with descriptions of certain paintings and gifts which were given to the queen by different countries. The guide also has a lovely effect of using classical music before each description so one is transported back in time to royal balls and the belief that they are in attendance of a great feast. And if one does not understand the guide or wants more descriptions of a certain object, room, garden, or even bird wandering about the lawn, one can ask one of the many enthused and excited staff members. All of whom will greet you with a happy smile and have the tendency to talk almost too much about all the facts and stories they know. The information given is phenomenal and will disappoint absolutely no one.
The Palace even has places for one to sit and and stare at certain objects or to bask oneself in the great banqueting hall. Outside there are also cafes, and ice cream parlors near the garden for one to go and enjoy one of the famous chocolate crown buttons which adorn the royal families own desserts even to this day. And if you wish to take something home, the gift shop within the garden is large and has most everything one could possibly hope to buy as a souvenir of their time spent at Buckingham palace. Whether it be a key chain, Christmas ornament, shot glass, or even a dog collar, there’s something for everyone.
Needless to say, I was enthralled and not disappointed by my Buckingham experience. I could go on forever and ever about all I saw, but those will have to come out in other posts so I don’t bore you. I will list some facts below though if you are planning on visiting the Queens house!
Facts You Should Know Before You Go:
I highly recommend booking FAR IN ADVANCE
Times: Change based on the season.
22 of July - 31 of August begin at 9:30 and go to 19:30 with the last admission being 17: 15
1 September - 1 October begin at 9:30 and to 18:30 with last admission being 16:15
Cost:
Many different ticket you can get that include the State Rooms, Garden, Queens Gallery, the Royal Mews, and even a exclusive tour.
All Children under 5 are free
If you are a Senior Citizen or Student depending on the tour you choose your ticket will be between 18 pounds and 27 pounds
Disabled and children under 17 will be between 11 and 22
Adults are 20.70-36
You can also do family packages which have to be 2 adults and 3 children
No photos inside only outside and in the gardens
Audio guides in
You must go through security and screening
No large backpacks or luggage