Buckingham Palace Tour Including Changing Of The Guard Ceremony
Visiting London is an unforgettable experience, and one of the must-see attractions is Buckingham Palace. Not only is this iconic palace the official residence of the British monarch, but it also offers visitors the chance to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This experience is steeped in tradition and is a must-see for anyone visiting London.
What Is The Changing Of The Guard Ceremony?
The Changing of the Guard ceremony, also known as Guard Mounting, is a military tradition that has taken place in front of Buckingham Palace since the 17th century. The ceremony involves the formal handover of duties from one set of soldiers to another, with the Queen’s Guard taking over the security of the palace from the Old Guard.
The pomp and pageantry of the ceremony make it a popular attraction for tourists, as well as an important tradition for the British Army. The Changing of the Guard takes place at 11:00 am daily from April to July, and on alternate days for the rest of the year, weather permitting.
What Can Visitors Expect From The Buckingham Palace Tour?
A visit to Buckingham Palace offers an insight into the life of the British monarchy, as well as the opportunity to see some of the most opulent state rooms in the world. The tour begins with a walk through the palace gardens, which cover 42 acres and provide a tranquil oasis in the heart of bustling London.
Visitors are then taken on a tour of the state rooms, which have been used for official receptions, state banquets, and other ceremonial occasions. These rooms are decorated with some of the finest art and furniture in the world, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto.
The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the Throne Room, which is used for important ceremonial occasions such as the presentation of knighthoods and other honors. Visitors can also see the Ballroom, which is the largest room in the palace and is used for state banquets and other official events.
How To Get The Best Experience From Your Buckingham Palace Tour
If you want to get the most out of your Buckingham Palace tour, it’s important to plan ahead. Tickets for the tour can be purchased in advance, either online or by phone. It’s worth noting that the palace is only open to visitors during certain times of the year, so it’s important to check the schedule before booking your tour.
It’s also important to arrive early, as the palace can get very busy during peak times. If you want to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, it’s best to arrive at the palace at least an hour before the ceremony begins. This will give you plenty of time to find a good spot to watch the ceremony from.
Finally, it’s important to dress appropriately for your visit to Buckingham Palace. The palace has a dress code, so it’s important to wear smart, casual clothing that is in keeping with the formal atmosphere of the palace.
Conclusion
A visit to Buckingham Palace is an unforgettable experience, offering visitors an insight into the life of the British monarchy. The tour of the state rooms, the palace gardens, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony all combine to create a truly unique experience that is not to be missed.