Buckingham Palace Plus

Yes, Buckingham Palace is THE place to see in London. But then, I am the type of person who, upon finding myself in a country that has a monarch, heads straight to the royal palace. So in London that would be Buckingham Palace.

Stand well back to get a wide angle view.

Move up close (careful when you cross the street though!) and peak through the gorgeous gates.

Inside the courtyard you will spot a sign like this.

If you wish to see the Changing of the Guard, get there early and stake out your spot next to the fence or on the steps of the Queen Victoria Memorial (affectionately known to some as “the wedding cake” statue). Crowds gather quickly so be prepared!

Everyone should see the Changing of the Guard at least once in their lifetime!

Hint: If you can not get close enough to get a good view you can at least see the band as it marches part way down the Mall and disperses.

When the Queen is not in residence it is possible to take a tour of the State Rooms inside the Palace.

Also, watch for special exhibitions that are held inside the Palace. My favourite was the Diamonds: A Jubilee Celebration Exhibition held a few years ago. It has been over for some time now but you can still see some of it on the Royal Collection website.

You need a ticket to take a tour or attend an exhibition.

Check out http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/the-state-rooms-buckingham-palace

Purchase your ticket online and pick them up at the side of the Palace.

Hint: Click on any photo to enlarge it.

 See the sign near the top of the post? That is where you enter to pick up your timed ticket.

After visiting the Palace you will exit into the gardens at the rear of the Palace.

Can you imagine what it would be like to attend a Garden Party here? Maybe some day one of us will be invited! (Dream on, eh.)

Well, at least while we are here at the Palace let’s have a quick lunch in the cafeteria here. Then we can say we had “lunch at The Palace“.

Capture the moment (actually it is  more than a moment as you walk quite a bit) as you stroll through the gardens and exit back onto the streets of London.

Note: You will exit a fair distance from where you entered so seize the moment and explore a bit.

So…Buckingham Palace is number 1 on the list of royal places to visit

But, right in the immediate vicinity, also seriously consider visiting…

1. The Royal Mews

Here you can get up close and personal with the horse stalls and carriages.

2. The Queen’s Gallery

Here you can get up close and personal with  paintings and three dimensional art selected from the Royal Collection and with art pieces related to/focusing on royalty. There are  cards below most pictures which give the title, artist, date,etc. For more extensive information about some of the pieces, consider picking up a free audio guide when you enter.

Entrance time is printed on your ticket…and they are quite sticky about adhering to that time. (very polite though!) Once you are inside you do not feel rushed or crowded though.

This art gallery often hosts special exhibitions. Check out

http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/the-queens-gallery-buckingham-palace

3. Clarence House

I have never been on the Clarence House tour (did not realize it was possible!) Check out this link for information about it.

http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/clarence-house

I have, however been at the Changing of the Guard outside Clarence House.

Have a look at other posts I have done about London to hear that story.

4. Look closely at the statues around this area.

So often we just glance at a statue or monument and comment “Impressive” and then move on. But here is an idea for visitors….stop a while and read any plagues about the statue. Find out who it is and  the significance of its placement here. Those extra few minutes can be very enlightening.

5. Finally, just stroll in the area.

You never know what may come your way!

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