buckingham palace
Buckingham Palace is a marvel and the cornerstone of London's cultural and architectural heritage. Over time, its significance as a royal residence and its historical evolution has played a vital role in its stature as an enduring symbol of the United Kingdom. Delving into its history allows for a deep exploration of British politics, societal shifts, architectural trends, and even the personal lives of the monarchy.
The genesis of Buckingham Palace dates back to the 18th century. It was originally a large townhouse built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703 and was known as Buckingham House. William Winde, a notable architect of the era, was believed to have been involved in its design. The house was nestled in a vast landscape near the village of Westminster, surrounded by meadows, farmland, and natural parkland.
King George III bought the house in 1761 as a private retreat for his wife, Queen Charlotte, giving it its initial royal connection. Hence, it was affectionately called 'The Queen's House.' The architect Sir William Chambers was commissioned to refurbish the house, making several structural and aesthetic modifications. He added a third floor, installed a new roof, and added other ornate architectural details.
Queen Charlotte gave birth to fourteen of her fifteen children in Buckingham House, which was deemed a comfortable and 'family-friendly' home by the standards of the time. It was the family's primary residence, and its private, somewhat secluded location was ideal for the royals.
The transition of Buckingham House to Buckingham Palace began during the reign of King George IV in the early 19th century. Having a penchant for grandeur and luxury, the King commissioned the famous architect John Nash to transform the house into a palace in 1820. Nash, an exponent of the Picturesque style, used a combination of French Neoclassical and Regency styles to redesign the structure. The grand entrance at the Palace's front, one of the building's most recognizable features, was part of Nash's design. His vision also included a grand, horseshoe-shaped courtyard, which was never completed due to spiraling costs and the King's death in 1830.
King George IV's successor, King William IV, initially had little interest in the Palace. However, after dismissing Nash due to the project's extravagant costs, he hired Edward Blore to complete the work. Blore added an attic floor to the Palace and constructed the East Wing, enclosing the central courtyard. However, even after these enhancements, King William IV never resided in the Palace.
Queen Victoria, ascending to the throne in 1837, became the first sovereign to inhabit Buckingham Palace. Victoria's move marked a significant shift in royal residences, moving away from the traditional seat of St. James's Palace. However, the Palace was not fully functional or comfortable at the start of her reign. The Palace needed several essential facilities, including sufficient storage space and nurseries. Consequently, Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert, commissioned a new phase of renovations.
During the 1840s and 1850s, the Palace underwent significant structural alterations. The architect Sir James Pennethorne was enlisted to extend the Palace, resulting in the new wing that created the quadrangle we see today. This unique design also incorporated the famous balcony, a central part of royal events where the royal family traditionally greets the public.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Buckingham Palace evolved to reflect the changing tastes and needs of the monarchy. Major works took place, including the redecoration of various rooms in various styles from the Victorian to the Edwardian period.
During World War II, the Palace became a symbol of British resistance. Despite being a clear target, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth refused to leave, with the Queen famously stating, "The children won't go without me. I won't leave the King. And the King will never leave." The Palace was bombed no less than nine times, and the royal family's determination to stay became a morale booster for the British public.
Post-war, the Palace underwent restorations and served as the monarchy's official residence. Queen Elizabeth II resides in the Palace and has witnessed several significant renovations, including extensive work on the Palace's exterior in the early 21st century.
Today, Buckingham Palace stands not only as the administrative headquarters of the Monarch but also as a symbol of continuity and the enduring allure of the British monarchy. It serves as the venue for many royal events and ceremonies. It opens its doors to thousands of guests each year for its summer opening.
Buckingham Palace has stood the test of time, evolving from a simple townhouse to symbolizing the British monarchy's longevity. Its architectural style reflects the varied tastes of different monarchs, and its history intertwines with the personal lives of the royals themselves. As it stands today, Buckingham Palace is more than a structure of bricks and mortar; it's an embodiment of British history, culture, and the resilience of a nation.
fascinating facts
A blend of grandeur, history, and regal charm, Buckingham Palace is more than a royal residence. It is an architectural masterpiece that has stood the test of time, symbolizing the magnificence and continuity of the British monarchy.
Buckingham Palace spans an impressive 830,000 square feet, roughly equivalent to 17 American football fields, a scale that reflects its significance and function. This colossal space serves as the Queen's residence, a setting for state occasions, and an office for those in the Royal Household's employ.
One of the most astonishing facts about Buckingham Palace is its 775 rooms. Yes, you read that right! These include 19 Staterooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. The Palace also boasts a cinema, a swimming pool, a post office, and even a police station!
The State Rooms, primarily used for official events and public receptions, exude opulence and grandeur. Decorated in lavish, classical style, these rooms are filled with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer, sculpture by Canova, exquisite pieces of Sevres porcelain, and English and French furniture.
The Palace's layout is complex, designed around an open central quadrangle. It has four wings: the North, East, South, and West. The North wing towards The Mall contains the famous balcony and the central part of the Palace, including the State Rooms. The East wing overlooks the garden, and the South wing, known as the garden façade, has the principal rooms. The West wing, containing the Royal Mews, faces Buckingham Palace Road.
The façade of the building is an exquisite example of the French neoclassical style with a hint of Victorian grandeur. The iconic balcony on the front façade was a later addition by Sir Aston Webb in 1913, designed as part of the memorial to Queen Victoria. The grand, triumphal arch, the white Portland stone, and the intricate detailing reflect a luxurious aesthetic that is distinctly British.
As for maintaining the Palace, it's no small feat. An official report in 2012 estimated the backlog of conservation repairs to the Royal Estate at about £50 million. However, this number doesn't paint the whole picture. The ongoing maintenance and running costs of the Palace are covered in part by the Sovereign Grant, an annual payment made to the Monarch by the government, which was £86.3 million in 2020/21.
But the Palace, given its age, requires more than just routine maintenance. In 2016, a 10-year refurbishment plan was announced, costing an estimated £369 million. This extensive renovation project, the most significant since World War II, involves replacing old wiring, updating the heating system, installing new pipework, and improving visitor access.
Moreover, Buckingham Palace is a living entity, constantly evolving to adapt to the changing needs of the monarchy and the nation. Over the decades, the Palace saw additions such as the installation of electricity in the late 19th century, lifts in the early 20th century, and even the introduction of solar panels on the roof of the West Wing in 2011.
The opulence of Buckingham Palace is often critiqued in discussions about taxpayer funding and monarchy expenses. However, the Palace's historical, cultural, and symbolic value makes it an irreplaceable British institution. It is a luxurious residence and a working building, where investitures, receptions, banquets, and other events occur.
Buckingham Palace is a marvel of architectural sophistication and historical significance. Its opulent rooms, stunning façades, and elaborate wings reflect centuries of British history and culture. Despite its grandeur, the Palace remains a functional space that is continually evolving, illustrating the fascinating interplay between tradition and modernity in the heart of London.
From its initial construction as Buckingham House to its transformation into a Palace and then a beloved national icon, every brick and beam, every painting and chandelier tells a tale of Britain's past and present. It stands as an enduring testament to the nation's architectural prowess and the timeless allure of the monarchy.
buckingham palace gardens
Spanning 39 acres, the Buckingham Palace Gardens serve as a backdrop for Garden Parties, diplomatic receptions, and even the occasional game of cricket. It's the largest private garden in London, providing a serene sanctuary for the royal family and an array of wildlife.
As you enter the garden, you will notice the immaculate, vast lawns, gently undulating to create a visual spectacle of green. One of the remarkable things about these gardens is that despite their royal status, they've been designed to be naturalistic, even a little wild in parts. This is no accident but rather the legacy of famed 18th-century landscape designer Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, who popularized the 'English garden' style that mimics the charming disorder of nature.
As you stroll further, you'll encounter the 19th-century lake, home to various waterfowls. The lake is an excellent example of how these gardens serve as a refuge for wildlife. From pelicans to rare native birds and even a beehive that produces honey for the royal kitchen, the Buckingham Palace Gardens are teeming with life.
The garden's most iconic feature is the Waterloo Vase. Standing nearly 18 feet tall, this monumental urn made from Italian marble was initially intended for Napoleon Bonaparte. After Napoleon's defeat, it found a home in the Buckingham Palace Gardens, a bold reminder of Britain's military history.
The garden isn't just about grand vistas and royal follies, though. It's a working garden that produces a variety of organic produce. From the sweetest strawberries served at Wimbledon to the Palace's homemade honey, the garden's bounty is a testament to sustainable practices and a farm-to-table philosophy.
The garden erupts in a riot of colors in spring, with thousands of tulips, daffodils, and other flowers in bloom. Come summer, the Rose Garden takes center stage, offering a fragrant feast for the senses. And the garden is awash in autumn with the fiery hues of falling leaves. Each season adds a new dimension to the beauty of these gardens, reflecting the passage of time and the changing moods of nature.
It's important to note that maintaining this vast, intricate garden is a year-round job. The team of gardeners is busy throughout the year, tending to the various plants, maintaining the lawns, and ensuring the garden's health and aesthetics. The hard work and dedication are evident in the garden's pristine condition and the diversity of plant species it supports.
As you conclude your walking tour, you'll appreciate why these gardens are more than just an adjunct to the Palace. They're an integral part of the royal estate, offering a green retreat, a space for gatherings, a haven for wildlife, and a living, breathing testament to the history and evolution of English gardening.
From the verdant lawns to the tranquil lake and the blooming flower beds to the towering trees, every aspect of the Buckingham Palace Gardens offers a glimpse into the love affair between the British monarchy and nature. Whether it's a royal garden party or a quiet morning walk, these gardens serve as a reminder of the enduring allure of nature, even in the heart of a bustling city.
the royal mews
Royal Mews are lesser-known but no less beautiful part of the British Royal estate. Nestled in the heart of London, adjacent to Buckingham Palace, this is where royal splendor meets equestrian elegance.
The Royal Mews is more than just a royal stable. It houses the royal collection of historic coaches and carriages. It is responsible for all road travel arrangements for The Queen and members of the Royal Family. It's where the famous 'Gold State Coach' resides, along with various other coaches and liveries used for state occasions, royal weddings, and the State Opening of Parliament.
Walking into the Royal Mews is like stepping into a living page of history. The grandeur of the carriages, the precision with which they're maintained, and the majesty of the royal horses bring centuries of British royal tradition alive.
One of the main attractions, the Gold State Coach, is worth the visit alone. Used for coronations since that of George IV in 1821, this coach is a masterpiece of 18th-century craftsmanship. Its gilded sculpture, detailed paintings, and unrivaled opulence are a sight to behold. Interestingly, despite its grandeur, it's reputed to be an incredibly uncomfortable ride!
The Royal Mews is also home to the famous Windsor Greys, the horses that pull the carriages on state occasions. Named for their color and the place they were initially kept, these beautiful horses are integral to royal ceremonies.
Visiting the Royal Mews offers a unique opportunity to see these working stables. You might even witness the horses being trained for carriage duties with some luck. Also, you get to see the elegant state vehicles, including the three Rolls-Royces, three Daimlers, and two Bentleys maintained by the Mews.
So, when can you visit this royal establishment? The Royal Mews is usually open to the public from February to November. However, checking the official royal website for the most accurate and up-to-date information is always a good idea.
As for tickets, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021; a standard adult ticket costs £13.00, while children aged 5-16 have a ticket price of £7.50. There are also concessionary and family ticket rates available. I recommend checking the official website for current prices and possible discounts. Ticket prices include a multimedia guide intended to enrich your visit.
When planning your visit, remember that the Royal Mews is a working establishment, and arrangements can change quickly. The use of the coaches and horses for royal and state occasions is prioritized, so ensure to check any scheduled state events on the day of your visit.
Visiting the Royal Mews offers an unforgettable journey into royal history, pageantry, and tradition. It's an opportunity to see up close the stately vehicles and beautiful horses that have been a part of Britain's most momentous occasions.
the queen's gallery
A place where grandeur meets creativity, it houses a selection of exceptional works from the Royal Collection, one of the most significant art collections in the world. So, buckle up and join me as we explore this artistic gem.
Established in 1962 by Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen's Gallery occupies the site of a former chapel, destroyed in an air raid during World War II. Today, it serves as an exhibition space for items from the Royal Collection, open to the public.
The Queen's Gallery exhibits a rotating selection of around 450 works at any one time from the extensive Royal Collection, which consists of over a million objects. These include paintings, sculptures, furniture, ceramics, jewelry, and even armor. The collection constantly evolves, with yearly exhibitions, each themed around a particular artist, period, or genre.
Some of the impressive works stand out for their artistic importance and historical value. One of the most famous pieces is Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' a brown ink and wash on paper. It is a rare survival of Leonardo's experimental large-scale drawings.
Another iconic piece is Johannes Vermeer's 'The Music Lesson,' a beautiful portrayal of a lady at the virginals with a gentleman. Vermeer's delicate play of light and texture, and the captivating intimacy of the scene, make this painting a must-see.
Despite the stunning range of art, it's about more than just viewing the exhibitions. The Queen's Gallery offers the chance to delve deeper into the art world. Engage in discussions during gallery talks, participate in art workshops, or let the little ones explore art through interactive discovery sessions. There's always something to learn, admire, and experience at the Queen's Gallery.
The Queen's Gallery is typically open five days a week, from Thursday to Monday. However, the exact timings and days can vary depending on the time of year and specific events, so it's best to check the official website before planning your visit.
A visit to the Queen's Gallery offers a unique journey through centuries of art history. From the works of the Old Masters to the treasures of the British monarchy, there's something to captivate every art lover.
changing the guard ceremony
This timeless tradition marries military precision with royal pomp and pageantry, offering an unforgettable experience for all who witness it. So, let's dive in!
The Changing the Guard ceremony, also known as Guard Mounting, is a formal exchange of duties between the soldiers currently on duty (the Old Guard) and those coming on duty (the New Guard). This highly choreographed event involves the handover of responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace and St. James's Palace, the official residences of the monarchy in London.
Dating back to 1660, the ceremony holds great historical significance, rooted in when the Monarch's guards lived in the Palace, and protecting the Monarch was their daily duty. Even today, in an era of peace, the ceremony represents the continuation of traditions and the upholding of responsibility, reminding us of the enduring role of the monarchy.
The ceremony is a marvel of precision, discipline, and musical prowess. It involves several units, primarily the guards of the Household Division – the Coldstream, Grenadier, Scots, Irish, and Welsh Guards. The troops, resplendent in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats, march and maneuver in perfect synchronization, all set to the stirring tunes played by a military band. The sight is truly a spectacle of British military tradition at its finest.
So, when can you witness this grand event? As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, starting around 10:45 am and lasting approximately 45 minutes. However, it's crucial to note that the schedule can change due to weather conditions or special occasions, so check the official British Army website for the most current schedule before planning your visit.
The event usually starts at Wellington Barracks, from where the New Guard marches to Buckingham Palace. They follow the route along Birdcage Walk towards the front of the Palace. Once the official handover is completed, the Old Guard exits the Palace and returns to the barracks. Watching the guards march along this route, accompanied by the vibrant music of the band, is an experience not to be missed.
A pro tip for first-time visitors is that the area in front of Buckingham Palace can get crowded. Try arriving early or watching from other spots along the route for a good view, such as near the Wellington Barracks or along The Mall.
In conclusion, the Changing the Guard ceremony is a captivating blend of royal history, military tradition, and musical entertainment. It's a testament to the discipline and dedication of the guards and a symbol of the continuity of the monarchy. Whether you're a history buff, a fan of royal traditions, or someone looking for unique experiences, this age-old ceremony will surely impress.
tickets and opening times
Whether you're planning your first visit or coming back for more, this guide will help you navigate the when and how of touring this emblem of British royalty.
Buckingham Palace has served as the official home of the monarchy since Queen Victoria's reign. It's not just a residence; it's a symbol of the UK's history, a venue for royal hospitality, and an art gallery. Each year, it opens its grand doors to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into royal life and history.
The Palace has specific periods during the year when it welcomes visitors. The State Rooms, the heart of the Palace, are open to the public for tours during the 'Summer Opening,' which typically occurs from late July through September when the Queen is away at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. During this period, visitors can tour the 19 splendid State Rooms, which are used for official functions and are filled with magnificent works of art from the Royal Collection.
The tour times during the Summer Opening begin at 09:30 AM, with the last admission at 17:15 PM. The visit usually lasts around 2-2.5 hours. However, these timings are subject to change, and it's always wise to check the official Royal Collection Trust website for the most accurate, up-to-date information.
It's also worth mentioning that the Palace is not only open during the summer months. The Queen's Gallery, a public art gallery, and the Royal Mews, home to the royal carriages, are open to the public throughout the year. These spaces hold their own unique charm, showcasing the wealth of art and history connected to the monarchy.
Tickets for visiting Buckingham Palace can be purchased online from the official Royal Collection Trust website.
When planning your visit, remember to allow ample time not just for the tour itself but also for passing through security, which is similar to airport security. Also, consider taking advantage of the complimentary multimedia guide that provides fascinating insights into the Palace's history, architecture, and furnishings.
In conclusion, a visit to Buckingham Palace offers a unique journey through centuries of British history, royal traditions, and art. Whether it's the grandeur of the State Rooms, the artistic gems in the Queen's Gallery, or the historic carriages in the Royal Mews, there's something to captivate every visitor.
In our next blog post, we'll take a virtual stroll through the historic city of London, exploring some of its lesser-known but equally fascinating corners. Stay tuned!
Buckingham Palace
Changing of the Guard Walking Tour Experience with Viator
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Entrance Ticket with Royal London Walking Tour with Viator
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Entrance ticket & Changing of the Guard Walking Tour with Viator
Buckingham Palace
