Buckingham Palace (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Buckingham Palace?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: Children relish marching bands, family audio guide and craft pavilion, and can meet horses at Royal Mews; still, few toilets mid-route and required standing time can tire visitors under eight.
Positives:
- Interactive Learning: Family multimedia guide brings palace history to life with games and characters.
- Spacious Gardens: Large lawn and pavilion offer safe space for kids to run and explore.
- Free Highlights: Changing of the Guard and Little Trekkers trail are free without extra booking.
Challenges:
- Seasonal Access: State Rooms and Family Pavilion open only mid-July to late September.
- Crowds at Ceremonies: Guard changing draws spectators; expect long waits for a good view.
- No Pushchairs Inside: Strollers must be checked in at the start of the tour and collected in the gardens.
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 with kids?
- Experience royal pageantry at the Changing of the Guard.
- Explore 19 State Rooms with a playful family multimedia guide.
- Let kids enjoy crafts and a garden trail at the Family Pavilion.
- Meet historic carriages on the Royal Mews Family Trail.
- Benefit from free highlights and spacious outdoor areas.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the Changing of the Guard, a state rooms tour with the family guide, and garden play without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Buckingham Palace
Changing of the Guard:
Watch the guards march from Wellington Barracks to the palace accompanied by a military band.
Tip: Arrive by 10:30 AM on ceremony days to secure front-row spots for kids.
State Rooms Summer Tour:
Walk through 19 grand rooms used for royal ceremonies with a family multimedia guide.
Tip: Pick up the free Alice and Rex guide to keep children engaged with stories and quizzes.
Family Pavilion & Garden Trail:
Enjoy crafts, puzzles, and a garden exploration trail after the state rooms tour.
Tip: Collect the free map at the exit to spot birds, fish, and the helipad along the lake.
Royal Mews Family Trail:
Discover royal carriages and try on footman uniforms at the working stables.
Tip: Book online for a family ticket and follow the Little Trekkers trail to engage younger children.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Buckingham Palace
- Pre-book Tickets: Reserve timed slots online to secure entry and skip queues.
- Early Start: Arrive before 10 AM to enjoy cooler temperatures and quieter paths.
- Combine Nearby Sights: Add the Queen’s Gallery or a Royal Parks playground afterward for a full day.
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)?
State Rooms and Family Pavilion open mid-July through late September. Visit early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family Palace Ticket | GBP 67.5 |
| Garden Café snacks | GBP 20 |
| Souvenirs | GBP 15 |
| Royal Mews Family Ticket | GBP 33.5 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 136 |
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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