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How To Visit Buckingham Palace In 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, And More

Eddie Saint-Jean Last Updated: January 18, 2024

Don’t just stand outside and look for the full-mast flag that means the monarch is home — go in! Buckingham Palace is the British Royal Family’s official residence and even you can visit. That said, it can be tricky and you’ll need to plan ahead. To help you out, I’ve put together this guide with info on tickets, tours, what to see, and the palace’s history. Here’s how to visit Buckingham Palace.

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to London  for more planning resources, our best Buckingham Palace tours  for a memorable trip, and the top things to do in London .

Visiting Buckingham Palace: What We’ll Cover

Witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic things you can do in London—after visiting the palace itself, of course.

As the official London residence of the British monarch since 1837, it is replete with all the opulence you would expect of kings and queens. If it’s on your bucket list, you’ll find out what you need to know about how to visit Buckingham Palace in this guide. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Opening hours and tickets
• How much time to budget for your visit
• What to see in Buckingham Palace
• Guided tour options
• Facts and history of Buckingham Palace
• Places to eat nearby

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if London tours are worth it .

Buckingham Palace Opening Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:

Visitors have access to the Buckingham Palace State Rooms and the Palace Garden for several weeks throughout the year. But for obvious security reasons, these can only be palace guided tours. Available dates vary based on the tours that the palace offers, but here’s what’s happening in 2023.

Palace-guided tours: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November to May. Tours usually start at 4:00 pm on Fridays, and 11:00 am through 2:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Summer tickets: July 14 – September 24, with State Rooms closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Tickets have a timed entry so you’ll want to book ahead , but the palace is open from 9:30 am to the last admission at 5:15 in July and August, and 4:15 in September.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place outside the palace building but within its gates. The public can view this ceremony without a ticket around 10:40 to 11:00 am every day. This time is not exact and is also dependent on weather. The ceremony only happens everyday in June/July and on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays for the rest of the year.

Tickets and Tours:

Tickets must be booked online or booked here for a guided tour that includes the area around Buckingham Palace.

Palace-guided tours in the winter and spring:

Adults: £90 Family guided tour: ages 5-17 is £49.50, under 5 is free

Summer Buckingham Palace tickets if purchased in advance:

Adults: £30 Young adults (18-24): £19.50 Child (5-17): £16.50 Disabled: £16.50 Under 5: Free Families: automatic discount for 1 adult and 2 children or up to 2 adults and 4 children

Pro Tip: Your tickets can be validated for up to a year if you ask a Warden to stamp it before leaving!

Address: Buckingham Palace

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best London tours to take and why .

How Long To Spend at Buckingham Palace

Short Answer: 2.5 hours for the State Rooms or 4.5 hours for the Royal Day Out

There are 19 State Rooms (the palace has a total of 775 rooms) so a meaningful visit will take a few hours. You’ll have access to several of the most ornately decorated rooms with treasures from the Royal Collection, paintings by old master artists, expensive sculptures, and elegant English and French furniture.

Also, you get to see the opulent and historic Throne Room. You might agree as I do that the White Drawing Room is even grander than the Throne Room. Find out for yourself!

What To See In Buckingham Palace

On your visit to the royal residence, make sure you see these incredible rooms and sights. There’s a lot of history and opulence to take in as you see Buckingham Palace. For a more detailed list with history, check out our article on the top things to see at the palace.

• The Changing Of The Guard
• The Throne Room
• The Queen’s Gallery
• The White Drawing Room 
• The Palace Garden
• Treasures Of The Palace
• The Ballroom
• The Gold State Coach
• The Diamond Jubilee State Coach
• The Grand Staircase

Buckingham Palace Tour Options

Guided tours to see Buckingham Palace, the Changing of the Guard, and other important areas around this royal area are the best way to get to know this historic site. We offer several top-rated tours that you can choose to make your vacation in London the best ever.

The Buckingham Palace Royalty Tour (2.5 hours)

Anyone can take an audio-guided tour, but if you book this tour, you get the special attention of a tour guide who knows incredible stories you won’t hear on that audio guide. Plus, you’ll first explore the serene St. James Park where you’ll hear about it’s transformation from a swampland to a deer park and a quiet oasis.

You’ll feel like you know the royals even better after exploring the Mall where official processionals and the Changing of the Guard have happened for centuries. Rest assured that your guide will get you to the right door at Buckingham Palace after entertaining you with stories of what you’ll see inside.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard (3 hours)

Clients love our skip-the-line access to the famous Westminster Abbey where they can enjoy a few minutes of quiet time with their guide in the nave of the abbey before the public enters.

There’s more to see at Westminster than you think, so having a knowledgeable guide to lead you through the Quire, Poet’s Corner, and more, is extremely helpful. And if the Changing of the Guard happens on the day of your tour, they’ll be sure to help you see it from several vantage points.

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London (7 hours)

Our top-selling London tour is a must-do when you’re traveling to the heart of the United Kingdom. Your local guides are highly qualified and can share an unreal amount of cool facts and stories about London’s iconic sites and history. Starting at Westminster Abbey, you’ll be amazed at just how much of London you can see on foot and on a Thames river cruise.

Your skip-the-line tickets help you maximize your time, and your guides know where the best spots to see the Changing of the Guard are found. Your final stop at the Tower of London brings London’s more grisly history to life. It’s the perfect place to end your busy day tour of London!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if sightseeing tours in London are worth it .

Buckingham Palace Facts and History 

• The palace has a total of 775 rooms, 19 of which are state rooms open to the public. 
• There have been many properties on the site. From 1698, however, it was known as Buckingham House and was the home of the Duke of Buckingham, where it gets its name.
• In 1761, it became known as the Queen’s House after George III bought it for his wife Queen Charlotte.
• It became a palace for the first time in the 1820s when George IV had it lavishly restructured fit for a king.
• The royal family made it their official residence in 1837, and Queen Victoria was the first royal to officially live there as head of state.
• The palace entertains 50,000 invited guests a year. Also, it averages 578,000 paid visitors a year.
• The Changing of the Guard ceremony happens daily at 10.45 am. King Henry VII made them the official Royal Body Guard 500 years ago. 
• During World War II, the palace was repeatedly targeted but survived nine bombing raids. The Royal Family refused to move out despite concerns for their safety.
• The palace is heavily protected but in 1982 an intruder called Michael Fagan broke into the Queen’s bedroom while she was sleeping. When she awoke, they had a brief chat before she fled the room and raised the alarm.

Places To Eat Nearby

The good news is your dining options are plentiful, but you’ll need to choose wisely. You can dine like royalty on Buckingham Palace Road, very close to the palace. Or, on the same stretch of road, there are sandwich bars with a more laid-back atmosphere and casual dining.

Take your pick of traditional British fare or more exotic cuisines. Here are a few suggestions, but if you’d like more options, also check out our guide to the best restaurants near Buckingham Palace . 

The Laughing Halibut : £ | Takeaway —Grab some old-school fish and chips to take away or take a seat inside. It’s a great place for a quick lunch with good reviews.

Bon Gusto : ££ | Italian Cuisine —Fancy a change from British grub? Try this Italian restaurant with a selection of meat, seafood, and pasta dishes. There are also soups and Mediterranean salads.  

The English Grill : ££££ | Traditional British Fare —This restaurant promises you’ll dine like royalty. Indeed, it is ornately decorated with regal furniture and furnishings. You can enjoy traditional afternoon tea in a garden overlooking the Royal Mews. Also, the range of steak, salad, and dessert dishes (to name a few) are product-sourced from the same Royal suppliers as Buckingham Palace.

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Reader Interactions

Comments (10).

June 30, 2022

We Want to visit inside Buckingham Palace either on 13th or 14th July. Can you help us tour and visit it?

July 5, 2022

We don’t currently offer Buckingham Palace tours, but we’d love to take you around London to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, plus even more great locations on our London in a Day tour and Westminster Abbey tour .

July 1, 2022

Will we be able to turn up at Buckingham Palace and buy a ticket on the day? Shanthi

[email protected]

Not necessarily. Since the royal family uses Buckingham Palace, schedules and public access are subject to changes at short notice. Additionally, tours are not available every day. It’s best to plan ahead and purchase tickets before you arrive to have the best chance of entering the palace.

September 19, 2022

It’s my 70th birthday august 21 2023 and I would like to bring my children/grandchildren to visit Buckingham Palace. There will be 2 x Oaps, 3 adults, 1 child aged 9 and 1 aged 4. What would you recommend and at what cost? Thank you for your help Best wishes

September 21, 2022

What a fun trip! You can check their website for tickets next season. The palace is only open for 10 weeks in the summer, and it’s closed early this year due to the queen’s death. You can also book a trip out to Windsor Castle and Stonehenge for fun day trip to another royal residence.

In your ‘blurb’ “It became a palace for the first time in the 1820s when George VI had it lavishly restructured to be fit for a king.” This is incorrect. In actual fact it was ‘King George IV’ who died in 1830 King George VI was Queen Elizabeth II father and died in 1952

Thanks for letting us know about that typo! It makes a difference of generations!

I purchased four Buckingham Palace tour tickets for Thursday, September 29. I do have my confirmation email, but I don’t have the actual ticket email. If I would email my customer and order numbers to an office or a person, is there some way I could please get the email with the actual tickets.

Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time and assistance with this matter.

You’ll need to check with the company from whom you purchased your ticket as they’ll have the accurate information.

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The State Rooms & Royal Mews Buckingham Palace Tickets and Dates

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Past The State Rooms & Royal Mews Buckingham Palace Events

Sun 24 Sep 2023 THE STATE ROOMS & ROYAL MEWS BUCKINGHAM PALACE Buckingham Palace, London

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Don’t skip out on the chance to tour the State Rooms at the Buckingham Palace which happens every summer. Jump aboard this interesting multimedia journey that lets you tour each of the 19 State Rooms that are festooned with lavish furniture and ornate paintings. Make an appearance at the exclusive exhibition this summer, dedicated to Queen Victoria and the 200th anniversary of her birth.

Gain access to the 19 State Rooms of the Buckingham Palace. Wander through the Throne Room, the Ballroom, and the White Drawing Rooms, each room more intricately decorated than the previous.

Plug in your audio multimedia guide and pick up historical facts about the rooms and the Palace you didn’t know of.

Take a lavish walk through the south side of the Palace Garden and admire stunning views of the palace from a unique vantage point.

Don’t miss this year’s exclusive exhibition, “Queen Victoria’s Palace,” which marks the 200th anniversary of her birth.

Elevate your experience by securing an upgraded ticket to witness the renowned Changing of the Guard ceremony along with an English-guided tour!

Entry to Buckingham Palace

Entry to Palace State Rooms

Audio guide for Buckingham Palace

Access to Royal Mews (optional)

Changing of the Guard (optional)

English-speaking guide (optional)

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

What To Expect

The Buckingham Palace acts as the London residence of Her Majesty the Queen, and one of the few working royal palaces to remain in the world today. Every summer, the doors of the palace are opened for visitors from across the globe to learn facts and discover secrets about the Palace and the State Rooms.

The State Rooms have been dubbed the “heart” of the Buckingham Palace and include 19 plush rooms, ornated with treasures from the Royal Collection. Some of these treasures include paintings by Canaletto, Rubens, Poussin, and Rembrandt and extravagant sculptures by Canova.

Feel free to plug in your multimedia audio guide and walk through the decked-up rooms. Learn about the historical importance of the State Rooms and, in effect, the Palace. Find out how the formerly known “Buckingham House” transformed into the royal palace we know it to be today.

End the tour by taking a stroll along the south side of the Palace Garden. The serenity and peaceful surroundings of the Garden will only heighten the views of the palace from this stunning viewpoint.

Catch this year’s special exhibition put on to honor the 200th birth anniversary of Queen Victoria, known as “Queen Victoria’s Palace”. This exhibition includes excerpts from her life and portrays how the young monarch transformed the palace from undesirable to beloved.

Know Before You Go

Important information.

You must carry a printed copy of your ticket to be displayed at the entrance of the palace.

Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the palace.

The audio guide will be available in Spanish, Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Russian.

Explore the magnificent State Rooms which are open to visitors for 10 weeks each summer (until 2 October 2023).

The State Rooms are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

For safety reasons, pushchairs are not permitted in the State Rooms. They must be checked in and reclaimed at the exit. Baby-carriers are available for loan.

A one-way system operates along the entire visitor route so be sure to check out the attractions thoroughly as you won’t be allowed to revisit them.

This tour is not suitable for guests with restricted mobility.

Your mobile vouchers will be sent to you shortly.

Please take a printed copy of this voucher along with a valid photo ID to display at the entrance of the palace.

If you have purchased reduced price tickets, please carry your valid photo ID proof for verification.

Meeting Point

Please take a printed copy of this voucher to exchange for tickets at the Buckingham Palace Ticket Office.

The Ticket Office is located next to the Ticket Holders' Entrance on Buckingham Palace Road.

Ensure that you arrive 15 minutes prior to the admission time in order to avoid any delays.

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Welcome to the most famous palace in the world

Our website brings you Information and Facts about Buckingham Palace including how to get there, when to visit the Palace, the History of the Buckingham Palace, Interesting Facts about the Buckingham Palace, Buckingham Palace Tours and not forgetting the world famous Changing of the Guard.

Please Note: Our website is not the official website of the the royal collection trust and have no link or association with buckingham palace, the King or the Royal family nor is it operated with their endorsement. It is, however, provided by dedicated royalists for your information and is the UKs oldest and much loved unoffical guide.

King Charles Hands Over Military Role to Prince William

13th May 2024

His Majesty King Charles has officially handed over the prestigious role of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps to His Royal Highness Prince William. This significant event marks a symbolic transition of leadership within the regiment.

Tickets & Tours

Parts of Buckingham Palace are now open to the public including the Queens Gallery and Gardens.

The State Rooms of the Palace are open for visitors to visit throughout the ‘Annual Summer Opening’ in July, August and September. The rooms are lavishly furnished with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection.

The Buckingham Palace Gardens, also referred to as the Royal Gardens, are a vast and meticulously maintained landscape located at the rear of the palace. Covering an area of approximately 39 acres, the gardens offer a serene and tranquil escape from the bustling city.

Changing the Guard

The traditional ceremony of the old guard changing with the new.

Changing of the Guard is one of the oldest and most recognizable ceremonies connected with Buckingham Palace. The correct name of the ceremony known as Changing the Guard is actually Guard Mounting. In this process a New Guard exchanges duty with the Old Guard and both Guards are drawn from one of the regiments of Foot Guards.

The Royal Mews

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Buckingham palace interesting facts.

The Centre Piece of Britain’s Constitutional Monarchy

Buckingham Palace is home to over 775 rooms, 19 of these are State rooms along with 52 official royal bedrooms and guest rooms. The staff themselves, have an impressive 188 bedrooms, 92 offices and a lavish 78 bathrooms. Still very much a working building it is the center piece of Britain’s constitutional monarchy which includes the everyday duties of The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh as well as their immediate family. Buckingham Palace was first opened to the general public in 1993 and it is opened every year between April and September since.

Banquets & Ceremonies

State banquets also take place in the main Ballroom of Buckingham Palace; these formal dinners take place on the first evening of a state visit by a visiting Head of State. On these occasions, 150 or more guests in formal “white tie and decorations”, including tiaras for women, may dine off gold plate.

The largest and most formal reception at Buckingham Palace takes place every November, when the Queen entertains members of the foreign diplomatic corps resident in London. On this occasion, all the state rooms are in use, as the Royal Family proceed through them beginning through the great north doors of the Picture Gallery.

As Nash had envisaged, all the large, double-mirrored doors stand open, reflecting the numerous crystal chandeliers and sconces, causing a deliberate optical illusion of space and light.

Smaller ceremonies such as the reception of new ambassadors take place in the “1844 Room”. Here too the Queen holds small lunch parties, and often meetings of the Privy Council. Larger lunch parties often take place in the curved and domed Music Room, or the State Dining Room.On all formal occasions the ceremonies are attended by the Yeomen of the Guard in their historic uniforms, and other officers of the court such as the Lord Chamberlain. Since the bombing of the palace chapel in World War II, royal christenings have sometimes taken place in the Music Room. The Queen’s first three children were all baptised here in a special gold font. Prince William was also christened in the Music Room. However, his brother, Prince Harry, was christened at St George’s Chapel, Windsor.

Buckingham Palace

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London Calling: 10 Amazing Landmarks That Are Worth Visiting

• London's landmarks, such as Shakespeare's Globe and St. Paul's Cathedral, offer a blend of history and culture that shouldn't be missed. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather and the occasion!
• The Shard and The London Eye provide stunning views of the city, making them must-see attractions. Be sure to plan your visit ahead of time to ensure availability and to avoid large crowds.
• Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London are iconic royal landmarks that offer captivating experiences. Consider booking tickets in advance to avoid long queues and to fully enjoy these historic sites.

London is a vibrant capital that merges history and modernity in a seamless way. From the palaces to modern architecture, London is home to some of the world's most famous landmarks .

For travelers visiting the city for the first time, there are an endless array of things to do in this British Captial but London's landmarks should undoubtedly be a top priority on any itinerary. So get those comfortable shoes ready, here are the best landmarks in London that are worth visiting.

Shakespeare's Globe

Located on the River Thames, Shakespeare's Globe is a theater that celebrates the life and legacy of William Shakespeare.

Shakespeare lovers and theater babies can enjoy taking in one of the many incredible performances held at the theater or go on a guided tour to learn more about Shakespeare's works and history.

Be sure to dress for the weather as the theater is open to the elements.

• Address : 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
• Shakespeare’s Globe Story & Tour Cost : Adult £25 ($32.07), Under 16 £18 ($23.09)
• Family Guided Tour Cost : Adult £25 ($32.07), Under 16 £18 ($23.09)
• Performances 2023 : The Comedy of Horrors, Macbeth, Midsummer Mechanicals

St. Paul's Cathedral

Built in the 17th century, St. Paul Cathedral is an iconic London landmark that has stood the test of time. Travelers that visit the Cathedral will have the chance to explore the cathedral floor, the crypt, and the dome galleries.

Be sure to stop at the multimedia desk to take the self-guided tour to the next level and remember that though there isn't a dress code per se it's important to dress appropriately as the cathedral is a place of worship.

• Address : St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD
• St. Paul's Cathedral Sightseeing Ticket Cost for Adults (18yrs+) : online advance rates £20.50 ($26.30), walk-up Individual rates £23 ($29.51), group (10+) rates £20.50 ($26.30)
• St. Paul's Cathedral Sightseeing Ticket Cost for Children (6-17yrs) : online advance rates £9 ($11.55), walk-up Individual rates £10 ($12.83), group (10+) rates £9 ($11.55)

Related: Is It True That London's Oldest Church Is Actually A Roman Church? Here's How To Visit

Standing at 1,016 feet (309.6 meters), The Shard is an impressive modern landmark composed of 11,000 glass panels. On a day not hindered by cloud cover, it's possible to see 40 miles (64 kilometers) when looking out from the view at the top.

The views definitely leave an impression, making this one of the best London landmarks.

• Address : 32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, UK
• View from The Shard Open Ticket Cost : £32 (valid until 31 December 2024)

Related: 10 Rooftops Offering Great Views That Are Publicly Accessible In London

There is maintenance underway at the Shard so experiencing these views from the inside of The Shard isn't possible at the moment however travelers can still book an open ticket.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is not only an important landmark in the London landscape but also a World Heritage site. Visitors to the abbey will get to take a stroll through history and experience some of the hidden highlights, like the library, Jerusalem chamber, St. Georges Chapel, and the coronation chair, or have a look at the gorgeous gallery above the abbey (Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries).

• Address : Dean's Yard, London SW1P 3PA
• Westminister Abbey Ticket Cost : Adults £27 ($34.64), Children 6–17 years £20 ($25.66), Seniors 65+ £24 ($30.79), Children 5 years and under (free)
• The Hidden Highlights tour is not always available.
• Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries Cost : Adults £5 ($6.42) and children 6 - 17 years (free)

Getting to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries is a little bit of a trek... it's about 108 stairs.

Big Ben (The Great Bell)

Considered one of the most famous clock's the world, Big Ben stands at 316 feet and is an iconic landmark in London. Surprisingly the clock that most people know as Big Ben has another official name ( the Great Bell ) whilst the tower itself is actually the Elizabeth Tower.

Nevertheless, it's a London landmark that has captivated people for quite some time.

Keep in mind that the trip up the tower requires a little bit of effort and should only be attempted by those able to manage 334 steps.

• Address : London SW1A 0AA, UK
• Big Ben Tour Cost : £25 ($32.08)for adults and £10 ($12.83) for children aged 11-17.
• Tickets often sell out; plan ahead.

What dishes are a must-try in London? Fish and chips, full English breakfast, bangers and mash, chicken tikka masala, and toad in the hole.

The London Eye

At 442.9 feet (135 meters) The London Eye is definitely an eye-catching landmark in London. The number of people in the pods varies, but there is definitely plenty of room to see the London skyline without feeling too closed in and the rotation is usually about half an hour.

For travelers on the lookout for a more tranquil experience, it's best to avoid booking in summer and when choosing a time consider the first or last entry.

• Address : Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB, UK
• London Eye Standard Ticket Cost : £30.50 -£45 ($39.13 - $57.74) per adult
• London Eye Fast Track Ticket Cost : £53 ($68) per adult

Tower Bridge

Open as an attraction since 1982, Tower Bridge is a testament to ingenuity. When it was initially constructed it was considered one of the biggest bascule bridges in the world.

Visitors to Tower Bridge will get to explore the towers, walkways, glass floors, and engine rooms. Be sure to grab a camera as the perspectives and views from the top are pretty awesome.

• Built : 1894
• Address : Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, United Kingdom
• Tower Bridge Ticket Cost : Adults £12.30 ($15.78) and Children 5-15 £6.20 ($7.96)

The British Museum

For history buffs the British Museum is definitely a London landmark worth a visit. From the museum's most popular attraction (Rosetta Stone) to the Egyptian Sculpture Gallery, there are so many exhibits and artifacts to see, making this one of the best landmarks in the city.

• Address : Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG, United Kingdom
• The British Museum Entry Cost : free however a ticket is required

For travelers visiting for the first time, it's a good idea to download the British Museum Audio app before exploring the galleries; it gives self-guided tours a little something extra.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is a royal landmark that most people around the world recognize. With its stunning exterior and Renaissance-style interiors, it is definitely a landmark that should be on every history buff's bucket list.

If seeing in the interior isn't on the agenda it's a good idea to visit during the charging of the guards . It usually takes about 45 minutes, but it's definitely a spectacle that should be witnessed at least once.

• Address : London SW1A 1AA
• Buckingham Palace State Rooms Advance Cost : Adults £30.00 ($38.49), young person 18 -24 £19.50 ($25.02), children 5-17 £16.50 ($21.17)
• Buckingham Palace State Rooms on The Day Cost : Adults £33.00 ($42.34), young person 18 -24 £21.50 ($27.59), Children 5- 17 £18.00 ($23.10)
• The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace Style & Society: Dressing the Georgians Cost : Adult £17.00 ($21.81), Young Person 18-24 £11.00 ($14.11), Children 5-17 £9.00 ($11.55), Under 5 (free)
• The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace Holbein at the Tudor Court Cost: Adult £19.00 ($24.38), Young Person 18-24 £12.00 ($15.40) and Children - 17 £9.50 ($12.19), Under 5 (free)
• Changing of the guard : Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday (it starts at 10:45 a.m. and the handover is at 11 a.m)

Tower Of London

There are so many popular landmarks around the world and the Tower of London is definitely one of the top-tier landmarks to visit in London. A designated World Heritage Site, the Tower of London served as a fortress, prison, and palace.

Travelers that visit will get to meet the guardians of the tower (ravens), learn about the turbulent history of the Tower on the guided Yeoman Warder tour, and see the crown jewels along with so much more.

Plus one of the best reasons to visit London in summer is that travelers will experience the moat in full bloom; the area really comes alive with hundreds of wildflowers.

• Address : Tower of London, London, EC3N 4AB
• Tower of London Cost : Adult: £33.60 ($43.11), Children 5-15 £16.80 ($21.56)
• Admission includes The Crown Jewels, The White Tower, the Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula, Battlements, Medieval Palace, Bloody Tower, Torture at the Tower exhibition, Fusiliers Museum and Royal Mint exhibition.

A good strategy to ensure a stress-free experience is to book the Tower tickets early.

Related: What To Know About The Secret Tunnel Under The Thames Next To The Tower Of London

London's best landmarks are all quite busy, especially during the peak travel season. Plan in advance for the best odds at securing tickets and beating the crowds at top London attractions.

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Hands up if you’re ready to be dazzled! From a ceremony structure designed to float on water to a jaw-dropping reception room with flowers blooming from every service, we’re swooning over every bit of this wedding. If you can believe it, that’s just the beginning. Julia Kaptelova artfully shot every detail, like the ballet performance guests were treated to and snow falling from the ceiling for the first dance! Prepare to be amazed and take a visit to the full gallery .

From About You Decor … Our design is a symbol of dawn and a distant endless horizon. Ahead is a long, happy life without any borders. An international couple, Pavel and Cherry, met in London and have been walking together for many years.

From the Bride, Cherry… My husband and I we decided to have our summer wedding in Moscow because the city is where his roots are. As we knew we were going to have the other wedding ceremony in China, we wanted our Moscow one to be very personal and intimate. We’ve known each other since we were fourteen, together with many of our friends whom we’ve also known for a decade.

I didn’t want to walk down the aisle twice so the plausibility of my request quickly came into discussion. The open pontoon stage was constructed in order to facilitate the bridal entrance on water, although there were concerns about safety as the last thing we wanted was probably a drowned bride before she could get on stage, picture that! I have to say on that day it wasn’t easy to get on the pontoon stage from the boat, in my long gown and high heels. Luckily my bridesmaids still noticed even though they stood the furthest from me on the stage, and helped me out without prior rehearsal. My girls could just tell whenever I needed a hand or maybe they were just so used to my clumsiness. Who knows 😂

We all love our photographer Julia! She’s so talented and her style is so unique. Our beloved host Alex is exceptional who made everyone laugh and cry. It was truly a blessing to have so many kind and beautiful souls on our big day. Thank you all!

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Photography: Julia Kaptelova Photography | Wedding Planner: Caramel | Cake: Any Cake | Invitations: Inviteria | Rings: Harry Winston | Band: Menhouzen | Grooms attire: Ermenegildo Zegna | Wedding Venue: Elizaveta Panichkina | Bridesmaids’ dresses: Marchesa | Bridesmaids’ dresses: Alice McCall | Bride’s gown : Jaton Couture | Bride’s shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Decor : About you decor | Earrings: Damiani | Muah: Khvanaco Studio | Video: Artem Korchagin

More Princess-Worthy Ballgowns

I’m still not convinced this Moscow wedding, captured to perfection by  Sonya Khegay , isn’t actually an inspiration session—it’s just  that breathtaking. From the beautiful Bride’s gorgeous lace wedding dress and flawless hair and makeup to the pretty pastel color palette and stunning ceremony and reception spaces, this wedding is almost too good to be true. Do yourself a favor and see it all in The Vault now!

From Sonya Khegay … It was the last day of April and still very cold in the morning. The weather forecast wasn’t pleasing and no one expected that the sun would come out, but miracles happen and light rain gave way to the warm rays.

I love how all the details went together, you could feel the harmony in everything throughout the entire wedding day from the morning until the fireworks.

A gentle look of the bride, elegant but so airy and unique decor, the fresh and light atmosphere of early spring and, of course, true happiness in the eyes. My heart becomes so warm from these memories, it is always a pleasure to see the birth of a new family of two loving hearts.

Photography: Sonya Khegay | Event Design: Latte Decor | Event Planning: Ajur Wedding | Floral Design: Blush Petals | Wedding Dress: La Sposa | Stationery: Special Invite | Bride's Shoes: Gianvito Rossi | Hair + Makeup: Natalie Yastrebova | Venue: Rodniki Hotel

• by Elizabeth Greene

You really can’t go wrong with simple: a beautiful Bride , perfectly pretty petals , loved ones all around. But add in an amazing firework show  to cap off the night and simple just became downright extraordinary. Captured by Lena Elisseva , with assistance by  Katya Butenko , this rustic Russian celebration is simply fantastic. See it all in the Vault right here !

From Lena Eliseeva Photo …  This cozy and warm summer wedding of gorgeous Natalia and Anton was in the middle of June. The young couple decided to organize their wedding themselves, and the day was very personal and touching. I am absolutely in love with rustic outdoor weddings, and this one is my favourite because of the free and easy atmosphere.

All the decor excluding the bride’s bouquet was made by a team of ten friends of the bride and groom. And it was charming – a light and beautiful arch, eco-style polygraphy and succulents, candy-bar with caramel apples and berries – sweet joys of summer.

At the end of ceremony the guests tossed up white handkerchiefs embroidered by Natalia’s own hands.

The most touching moment was the happy eyes of the groom’s grandmother, the most estimable person on the wedding. And the fireworks were a bright end to that beautiful day.

Photography: LENA ELISEEVA PHOTO | Floral Design: Katerina Kazakova | Hair And Makeup: Svetlana Fischeva | Photography - Assistance: Katya Butenko

These photos from Lena Kozhina are so stunningly beautiful – as in you can’t help but stop and stare – it’s hard to believe it’s real life. But these pics are proof of this gorgeous Bride and her handsome Groom’s celebration at Moscow’s Fox Lodge , surrounded by vibrant colors and breathtaking blooms . Oh, and the idea of prepping for your Big Day outside in the sun ? Brilliant. See more bright ideas right here !

From Lena Kozhina … When we met with the couple for the first time, we immediately paid attention to Dima’s behavior towards Julia. There was a feeling of tenderness and awe, and we immediately wanted to recreate this atmosphere of love, care and warmth on their Big Day.

Later, when we had chosen a green meadow and an uncovered pavilion overlooking a lake as the project site, it only highlighted a light summer mood with colorful florals and a great number of natural woods. The name of the site is Fox Lodge and peach-orange color, as one of the Bride’s favorites, set the tone for the whole design – from the invitations, in which we used images of fox cubs to elements of serving guest tables and other decorative elements with the corresponding bright accents.

Photography: Lena Kozhina | Event Planning: Ajur Wedding | Wedding Dress: Rosa Clara | Shoes: Marc Jacobs | Catering: Fox Lodge | Makeup Artist: Elena Otrembskaya | Wedding Venue: Fox Lodge | Cake and Desserts: Yumbaker | Decor: Latte Decor

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Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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