Buckingham Palace (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Buckingham Palace?
What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: Partners can witness regal ceremony together, wander ornate State Rooms, relax in the garden café, and pose for photos, so the palace offers a memorable, romantic, yet reasonably priced date.
Positives:
- Cultural insight: Learn about royal traditions and the monarchy’s private art collection.
- Photo opportunities: Capture dramatic shots at the forecourt, inside grand rooms, and by the lake.
Challenges:
- Crowds: Guard ceremonies and summer tours draw large groups; expect queues.
- Security checks: Allow extra time for bag screening at the palace entrance.
What is Buckingham Palace?
- A grand neoclassical palace serving as the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch
- A complex of over 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms, private apartments, offices, and a famed balcony overlooking The Mall
- An iconic symbol of the Crown with a limestone façade, expansive forecourt, and 39 acres of landscaped gardens
What is so special about Buckingham Palace for couple trip?
- Watch the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony together.
- Tour grand State Rooms and a special summer art exhibition.
- Explore historic royal carriages in the Royal Mews.
- Unwind at the garden café with scenic lake views.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for the Changing of the Guard, a State Rooms tour or visit to the Royal Mews, plus a break at the garden café.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Buckingham Palace
Changing of the Guard:
Watch the guards march from Wellington Barracks to the palace forecourt with band music.
Tip: Arrive by 10:30 am. Stand by the forecourt railings for clear views.
State Rooms Tour:
Walk through 19 State Rooms used for royal ceremonies, including the Throne Room.
Tip: Book timed tickets online well ahead for the summer opening period.
The King’s Gallery:
Explore rotating exhibits from the Royal Collection in a classical gallery wing.
Tip: Allow 1–1.5 hours and combine your ticket with a State Rooms visit.
Royal Mews Tour:
View the Gold State Coach, Windsor Greys and historic royal carriages.
Tip: Pick up the free multimedia guide at the entrance for detailed commentary.
Garden Café Break:
Relax in the palace garden café with snacks and lake views.
Tip: Try the seasonal ice cream on the terrace overlooking the lake.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Buckingham Palace
- Book in advance: Reserve timed tickets online to secure your spot for State Rooms.
- Arrive early: Get to the forecourt 30 minutes before the ceremony to find prime viewing.
Reviews of Buckingham Palace
jessica desilets
We purchased guided tour tickets to include the changing of the guards. What we failed to understand was the meeting point is not actually at Buckingham Palace, rather about a mile down the road at the equestrian statue. The tickets were expensive since we did opted for a guided tour however the guided tour does not take you inside the palace. I have to say overall I was a bit let down by the tour...
Scott
Interesting to be and see inside this storied place. The State Rooms are interesting and the chance to see the royal art collection is a real treat. I also enjoyed the special exhibition of art produced on the King Charles’s travel over the years as well as the throne room. It’s crowded but manageable. I also visited the mews with the carriages and would recommend. My disappointment was the limit...
robin st john
The palace is absolutely beautiful inside, but no photography. We really enjoyed our visit there. It's is a good bit of walking around but benches to rest on. There is a 20 minutes walk one you get outside to get back out to the main street but once again plenty of benches to rest.
Matteo Comune
you can feel the history behind the building. A truly wonderful palace, with stunning architecture and beautifully maintained surroundings. Watching the Changing of the Guard adds to the charm, making it a must-see landmark when visiting London.
Jonathan Boon
A visit that everyone should make once in their life, stunning architecture and woodwork. History in real life. The Muse is especially beautiful with all the carriages. Must book in advance.
When is the best time to visit Buckingham Palace (London, United Kingdom)?
Visit mid-July to late September to see the special King's Traveling Artists exhibition in the State Rooms.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| State Rooms ticket | GBP 26.5 |
| The King’s Gallery ticket | GBP 19 |
| Royal Mews ticket | GBP 13 |
| Garden café snacks | GBP 10 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 68.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Buckingham Palace
Address: London SW1A 1AA, UK
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