Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is one of the narrated stops on the self-guided London audio walking tour in Gingerguide. Plan about ~90 min here. Press play at the spot for its two to three minute story, or ask the AI guide anything about it.
- Type palace
- Suggested visit ~90 min
- London London guide
About Buckingham Palace
The official London residence of the British monarch, famous for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Buckingham Palace has been the official London residence of Britain's sovereigns since 1837, when Queen Victoria became the first monarch to take up residence. What began as a townhouse built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703 was transformed into the grand palace we see today, boasting 775 rooms including 19 State Rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, and 78 bathrooms.
The palace's famous East Front facade was added in 1847 and refaced in Portland stone in 1913. The balcony at its centre is where the Royal Family gathers during national celebrations. Every year, the State Rooms are opened to visitors during the summer months.
The Changing of the Guard is one of London's most beloved free spectacles, held on the forecourt with military precision accompanied by a regimental band, often playing surprisingly modern pop arrangements. The surrounding 40-acre garden is the largest private garden in London.
Did you know? Buckingham Palace has 775 rooms, including 78 bathrooms and its own post office, cinema, swimming pool, and doctor's surgery.
How long should you spend at Buckingham Palace?
Plan about ~90 min at Buckingham Palace. That is enough to take it in and hear its narrated story; stay longer if it grabs you. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush.
Is Buckingham Palace worth visiting?
Buckingham Palace is one of the 41 sights the Gingerguide team researched and narrated in London, so it earns a place on a self-guided walk. Its story explains why it matters, and you can ask the AI guide anything the story leaves open.
Nearby stops in London
Hear the story of Buckingham Palace
Preview the London tour free in the Gingerguide app.