Our regular readers have been to London countless times, but we’re always looking out for unique and new opportunities to enjoy the city.
Each summer for eight to ten weeks, and at specially designated times during the winter and spring, the Rooms of State at Buckingham Palace are opened to the public for self-guided, audio tours. We recently had a chance to experience the unique glamour of the monarchy on a spectacularly bright September afternoon.
Buckingham Palace is one of the few working palaces in the world. The expansion of the original palace was designed by John Nash in the 1820s, transforming the official residence of the monarchy into a much grander facility.
The Rooms of State are used by the Royal Family to entertain domestic and international luminaries throughout the year. Access to the Palace’s unmatched art collection during your visit will be curated by HRH Prince of Wales on an included video tour that winds through the intricately decorated rooms.
You may have heard that the official residence of the Royal family has become a bit “threadbare” but the Rooms of State are unimaginably gorgeous – with décor managed to the last detail. Photography inside the Palace is strictly prohibited, which is refreshing because visitors must enjoy the tour with their eyes and ears, rather than concentrating on a trying to snap photos and selfies in these sophisticated spaces.
Your tour will include the Coronation and Ballrooms, along with the famous Drawing Rooms where the Queen and her family greet nearly 100,000 invited guests each year. On the day of our visit, the tour was busy but not crowded – early morning and late afternoon admission guarantees the best viewing opportunities.
Premium rooms at the London Hilton offer a unique glimpse into the palace grounds, although strategically placed trees foil any attempt to view the Palace’s residential quarters.
If you have time for a quick trip to London this month – the tour is available through the end of September. Admission is 24 Pounds and you may prebook online at https://www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/the-state-rooms-buckingham-palace
It’s a stop well worth your time!
