Buckingham Palace State Rooms

Book now
Address
Buckingham Palace SW1A 1AA
Opening Hours
9.30am - 7.30pm (summer only)
How to get there
Train: Victoria,Charing Cross Tube: Victoria, Green Park, St. James's Park, Hyde Park Corner
Duration
2 - 3 hours
Age
6+
Accessibility
More info
Price
from £14.50
9

Based on 15 reviews

Book now
10
Tiggy (9)
09 October 2025

Me and my sister went recently and it was brilliant. We took the audio tour and chose the family version with lots of fun facts and quizzes. We saw 13 rooms, including the room we saw on tv recently that Donald Trump got welcomed to! We saw the Kings garden where he has lots of animals like geese and had really good sponge cake in the cafe. It had all the normal cafe food but the cakes were better. We also saw all the amazing carriages and got to learn how to tack up a fake horse. There were real horses there too.

Have your say!

Kids, teens & parents welcome. Keep it kind. No surnames or personal contact details. Required fields are marked *

Have your say!

Your email address is used only to verify permission and will not be published.

About Buckingham Palace State Rooms

Step inside Buckingham Palace and explore the royal State Rooms, open each summer while the King’s away. With chandeliers, art, and the iconic Throne Room, it’s a must for families who love a bit of grandeur – plus there’s cake, gardens, and the Changing of the Guard too.

Top tip from the KidRated team:

The State Rooms are only open for a few weeks each summer, so book early! The free Changing of the Guard happens outside – no ticket needed – but it gets busy fast so get there early.

Quick Inspiration

Is it suitable for kids – and what age is best?

Yes, but best for kids aged 6+. There’s loads to see, but it’s more “look and listen” than hands-on. Great for royal fans and anyone who loves a bit of gold and glamour. Under-5s go free, but may get a bit fidgety. There’s a family craft pavilion in the gardens at the end of the tour.

Will we see the King or Queen?

Nope, they’re off on their summer hols while the State Rooms are open. But walking through their actual home is still pretty special, and you will see the thrones.

Do the kids need to be well-behaved?

Ideally, yes. It’s full of priceless stuff, and there are rules like “no touching” and “indoor voices please.” That said, staff are kind and used to kids, just maybe don’t bring the sugar-fuelled toddler army.

Is it good for a rainy day?

Yes, the whole tour is indoors. Just bring a brolly for any queueing and photos outside, then dry off in the café with a slice of royal sponge.

What’s the highlight for families?

The Throne Room is a showstopper. But for drama and fun, the Changing of the Guard (free, outside) is brilliant – brass bands, shiny boots and giant fluffy hats.

What’s the deal with the Changing of the Guard – and when does it happen?

Ah, the full British spectacle! Shiny boots, military music, horses, and guards in those famous bearskin hats swapping shifts with great ceremony. It’s totally free and happens just outside the Palace gates usually at 11am Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Sundays, but check the website before you go.

Is there a good selfie spot?

Loads – start with the Palace gates, nab a family shot in the forecourt, then treat yourself to a subtle café selfie with cake.

Is it buggy and wheelchair friendly?

Yes, the Palace is fully accessible with lifts and help on hand. Buggies might need to be parked in some areas, but staff will guide you.

Are there places to eat?

Yes, the Garden Café at the end of the tour is lovely. Or picnic in St James’s Park next door if the weather behaves.

Are the loos decent?

Yes, clean, well-kept and even a bit posh. Baby-changing too. Possibly the most regal toilets you’ll ever use.

You may also like

Leave a review