If you think of England you always think of the Royal family and if you think of the Royal family then there are certain addresses that also spring to mind, most famous of these is Buckingham Palace.

Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the royal family since 1837. Today it has a total of 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 78 bathrooms and 92 offices. It is found opposite St.James Park in the center of London and is a true symbol of the British royal family.

If you get the opportunity to see this British iconic monument then it is worth knowing that the famous changing of the guard takes place at 11.30 everyday between April and July and on alternate days the rest of the year, but remember to arrive early if you want a good position.

It is also possible to tour the inside of the palace but if you see the Royal standard flying then you know the queen is in residence and you will not be able to view the palace. The tours includes the State rooms, where visiting dignitaries are entertained, the Royal Garden, the Throne Room, the Royal Picture Gallery containing works by Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto as well as the Royal Mews, one of the grandest working stables in the world.

To get tickets you can book them on the day of admission from 9am. They can be bought directly at the palace or over the phone using a credit card. People are admitted every 15 minutes. There are two types of ticket available:

One gives access to the State rooms and includes an audio guide, adult prices are 15.50 GBP, under 17’s 8.75 GBP and under 5’s free. Over 60’s and student prices are 14.00 GBP. A family price for 2 adults and 3 under 17’s is 39.75 GBP.

A Royal Day Out gives access to the State Rooms, Royal Mews and The Queen’s Gallery, adult prices are 28.50 GBP, under 17’s 16.99 GBP and under 5’s free. Over 60’s and student prices are 25.00 GBP. A family price for 2 adults and 3 under 17’s is 73.00 GBP.

The nearest underground stations are St.James Park, Green Park and Victoria. To contact Buckingham palace ticket office for bookings call +44 (0) 2077667300, group bookings call +44 (0) 2077667321, a booking fee of 1.25GBP per ticket applies. The ticket office is located at the visitor entrance.

Buckingham palace is truly one of the great British iconic monuments and a very worthwhile place to visit whilst you are in the UK.