Buckingham Palace

What to expect

Buckingham Palace began in 1703 as a townhouse, was bought by George III in 1761 and became the monarch's London residence when Victoria came to the throne in 1837. John Nash and Edward Blore enlarged it into a three-wing building around a courtyard, and Aston Webb gave it the Portland stone front you see today in 1913. It has 775 rooms.

For most visitors this is an outside stop. You stand at the gates or around the Victoria Memorial and look across at the palace facade and its balcony, where the royal family appears on big occasions. The Changing of the Guard takes place in the forecourt, with the band, red tunics and bearskins. The State Rooms inside open only in summer and on selected dates; the Royal Mews and the King's Gallery are separate visits.

Don't miss

• The East Front facade and balcony
• Victoria Memorial in front of the gates
• Changing of the Guard in the forecourt
• Palace gates and railings
• The Queen Victoria statue by Thomas Brock

Tips for your visit

• Arrive well before the ceremony to get a spot at the railings, as it fills up fast.
• Check the official Changing of the Guard schedule before you go, since it does not run every day.
• Walk through St James's Park on the way for the best approach and views of the palace.
• If you want to see the State Rooms, book ahead and plan around the limited opening periods.