If you are interested in the British Monarchy you should head over to Westminster, London to brush up on your Buckingham Palace facts. Although the palace is still to this day used for Royal ceremonies and State visits, its Staterooms are also open between July and September to any general public curious about how the ruling class live.
From the Buckingham Palace guards outside to the opulent decor inside, Buckingham palace tours treat the senses in a grand fashion.
Here are some facts to pique your interest
1. Buckingham Palace: A Grand Home with a Royal Purpose
Did you know that Buckingham Palace is more than just a lavish home for the British royal family? It’s actually a bustling hub of activity with over 770 rooms that house not only The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh but also their dedicated support staff. Let’s take a peek behind the palace walls to discover how this grand building operates day-to-day!
While Buckingham Palace is undoubtedly a symbol of British history and grandeur, it’s also a fully functioning workplace that serves as the administrative headquarters of the monarchy. This means that there’s a lot more happening within the palace walls than just fancy banquets and garden parties!
With 775 rooms, there’s plenty of space to accommodate the royal family and their loyal staff. The palace includes 19 Staterooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. That’s a lot of space to keep tidy and well-maintained!
Buckingham Palace wouldn’t be complete without the iconic Guard, who are responsible for guarding the royal residences. Dressed in their iconic red uniforms and tall bearskin hats, the guards are an essential part of the palace’s security and a symbol of British tradition.
So, the next time you find yourself marveling at the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, remember that it’s not just a beautiful building; it’s a hive of activity and the heart of the British monarchy, where dedicated staff work tirelessly.
2. Art and Splendor: A Peek Inside It’s Treasures
Can you imagine living in a place adorned with museum-quality furnishings and world-renowned art pieces? Well, that’s precisely what Buckingham Palace offers to its royal residents! Let’s dive into the world of art and luxury that makes this palace one of a kind.
The palace’s decor is far from ordinary; it is an exquisite blend of elegance and history. Each room showcases breathtaking pieces from the Royal Collection, which is the world’s largest private art collection. From opulent tapestries and magnificent sculptures to priceless antiques, the palace is a treasure trove that transports you to different eras of art and design.
Buckingham Palace isn’t just a royal residence; it’s also home to one of the most renowned art collections in the world. The walls are adorned with masterpieces by some of history’s most celebrated artists, such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and many more. Can you imagine strolling through the palace corridors, with each step bringing you closer to another priceless work of art?
The royals don’t keep all this beauty to themselves. They generously share their passion for art with the public through The Queen’s Gallery, which was first opened in 1962. This extraordinary gallery hosts a rotating selection of artwork from the Royal Collection, offering visitors a unique opportunity to marvel at the same masterpieces that grace the private spaces of the palace.
3. A Royal Summer Treat
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to step inside the halls of Buckingham Palace? Well, you’re in luck! Every summer, the palace’s majestic State Rooms are opened to the public, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the heart of royal life. So, grab your sunhat and get ready for a summer adventure like no other!
Imagine walking through the resplendent rooms where countless historic events have taken place, from glittering state banquets to royal weddings. The State Rooms are the perfect place to immerse yourself in the splendor of the British monarchy. Each room is exquisitely designed and adorned with stunning artworks, sparkling chandeliers, and intricate gilded ceilings that will leave you awestruck.
Buckingham Palace’s summer opening is an annual tradition that brings joy to both tourists and locals alike. It offers a unique chance to explore the palace’s most impressive spaces, usually reserved for official state events and ceremonies. During your visit, you’ll be guided through the lavish halls, learning fascinating stories about the history and heritage of the British monarchy.
What makes the palace’s summer opening extra special is that it’s not just a museum-like experience. Buckingham Palace is still a working royal residence, so you’re not just witnessing history – you’re a part of it! As you wander through the State Rooms, you’ll see the same spaces where the Queen and the royal family entertain their guests and carry out their duties.
4. Timeless Tradition: The Changing of the Guard
Picture this: a bright and sunny day in London, the air filled with anticipation as you stand before Buckingham Palace, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. A beloved spectacle steeped in tradition and regalia, this event is best enjoyed with a trusty companion guidebook by your side to unveil the fascinating Buckingham Palace facts behind each meticulous detail.
As the clock strikes the hour, the ceremony begins with precision and pageantry. The air is punctuated by the rhythmic march of the guards, the stirring melodies of the military band, and the barked orders of the officers. With your handy guidebook, you’ll have a front-row seat to history, unlocking the secrets behind each element of the ceremony and delving into the time-honored rituals that have remained unchanged for centuries.
As you witness the intricate dance of the guards, your companion guidebook will reveal the roles and responsibilities of each participant, from the Foot Guards in their iconic red tunics and bearskin caps to the immaculately groomed horses of the Household Cavalry. This captivating performance is a living testament to the discipline and dedication of the British military, a tradition that has been captivating audiences for generations.
With your guidebook as your trusted companion, you’ll not only understand the rich history and significance of the Changing of the Guard, but you’ll also be able to share your newfound knowledge with friends and family. Together, you’ll marvel at the elaborate uniforms, the polished choreography, and the impeccable timing that make this ceremony an unforgettable experience.
5. The Surprising Truth About Buckingham Palace Guards: They’re Real Soldiers!
Did you know that those stoic guards standing in front of Buckingham Palace aren’t just actors in a fancy dress show? In fact, they are serving soldiers from the British Army!
These soldiers, known as the Queen’s Guard, are responsible for protecting the palace and the Royal Family. They take their duties seriously, and are highly trained in combat and security measures. So if you were thinking about trying to sneak past them for a selfie, you might want to think twice!
Despite their important role, the Queen’s Guard are also quite the sight to see. With their iconic red tunics, black furry hats, and shiny bayonets, they cut an impressive figure against the regal backdrop of the palace.
Next time you visit Buckingham Palace, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and skill of these real-life soldiers. And don’t forget to give them a friendly wave – just don’t expect them to smile back!
6. London Sightseeing Journey at Buckingham Palace
If you’re looking to explore London on foot, Buckingham Palace is an excellent place to start your adventure.
Not only is the palace itself an impressive sight, but it’s also conveniently located near some of the city’s top attractions. Take a stroll through St. James’s Park, catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, or visit the nearby Churchill War Rooms.
From there, you can make your way to other popular spots like Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, and the West End theater district. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even walk all the way to the iconic Tower Bridge!
The best part about exploring London on foot is that you get to see the city up close and personal, taking in all the sights, sounds, and smells that make it unique. So lace up your walking shoes, grab a map, and get ready for a day of unforgettable adventure starting at Buckingham Palace.
7. A Journey from the Thames to Piccadilly Square
Did you know that some of London’s most iconic landmarks are all within walking distance of each other? That’s right – from the river Thames to Piccadilly Square, you can see it all on foot!
Starting at the river Thames, you can stroll along the South Bank and take in views of the London Eye, the Globe Theatre, and the iconic Tower Bridge. As you cross over the river, you’ll come face to face with the majestic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
From there, head up to St. James’ Palace and catch a glimpse of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Then, make your way to Trafalgar Square and marvel at Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery. And don’t forget to stop by bustling Piccadilly Square for some shopping and people watching!
The best part about exploring these landmarks on foot is that you’ll get to experience the city up close and personal, discovering hidden gems along the way. So put on your walking shoes and get ready for an unforgettable journey through some of London’s most iconic sights!
8. Step into Royal History
If you’re a fan of all things royal, you won’t want to miss a visit to the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace.
Located on the palace grounds, the Royal Mews is home to some of the most impressive vehicles in the world – including the Queen’s horse-drawn carriage and motor cars. But that’s not all – it’s also where all the state vehicles are kept and serviced, including the iconic Golden State Coach used for Coronations.
As you tour the Mews, you’ll learn about the fascinating history of these vehicles and the important role they play in royal ceremonies and events. You might even catch a glimpse of the horses themselves, who are just as regal and majestic as their royal passengers.
So if you’re a fan of all things royal, be sure to add the Royal Mews to your London itinerary. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
9. Explore World-Class Art at the Queen’s Gallery
Did you know that the Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in world-class art exhibitions?
Throughout the year, the gallery hosts a wide variety of exhibitions featuring works from the Royal Collection – one of the largest and most important art collections in the world. From Renaissance masterpieces to modern and contemporary art, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Not only will you get to see some truly stunning works of art, but you’ll also get a glimpse into the fascinating history of the Royal Family and their role as collectors and patrons of the arts. It’s a truly unique and immersive experience that’s not to be missed.
So if you’re looking for a cultural highlight during your visit to London, be sure to check out the Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace. You never know what incredible works of art you might discover!
10. Fascinating Tower Bridge Facts
If you’re visiting Buckingham Palace, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the iconic Tower Bridge – it’s just a short trip away and there are some truly fascinating facts to discover!
As you make your way to the bridge, you’ll learn about its rich history and engineering marvels, like its ability to lift its middle section to allow ships to pass through. Did you know that it takes just five minutes to raise the bridge? Or that it’s made up of over 11,000 tons of steel?
But that’s not all – the Tower Bridge also houses a stunning exhibition that takes you inside the bridge’s inner workings and tells the stories of those who built and maintained it over the years. You can even walk across the bridge’s high-level walkways for breathtaking views of the city.
FAQs
What is Buckingham Palace real name?
Buckingham Palace is actually known by its real name – it was named after the Duke of Buckingham, who originally built the house in 1703. Over the years, the palace has been expanded and renovated by various monarchs, making it the grand and imposing structure we see today.
So while it’s commonly referred to as “Buckingham Palace,” that is actually its real name. And no matter what you call it, there’s no denying that it’s an iconic and impressive landmark that is well worth a visit.
What is the nickname ?
It has a few nicknames, some of which are more playful than others. One of the most commonly used nicknames is simply “Buck House,” which is a shortened and more casual version of its official name.
Another nickname you might hear is “The Palace,” which is a nod to its status as the primary residence of the British monarch. And some people might even refer to it as “The Buck,” which is a shortened version of its more formal nickname.
No matter what you call it, there’s no denying that Buckingham Palace is an iconic and impressive landmark that holds a special place in the hearts of Britons and visitors alike.
Why is Buckingham Palace red?
If you’ve ever seen Buckingham Palace, you’ve probably noticed that its exterior is a striking shade of red. But why is that?
The answer has to do with the building materials used to construct the palace. Buckingham Palace is made of a type of stone called Portland stone, which is a light-colored, almost white stone that is often used in grand buildings. However, over time, the pollution in London’s air caused the stone to become discolored and dirty-looking.
To combat this, the palace was painted with a reddish-brown hue in the mid-19th century, which helped to hide the discoloration and give the building a more cohesive and impressive appearance. This color, which is officially known as “Buckingham Palace Red,” has been used on the palace’s exterior ever since.
Was Buckingham Palace bombed in ww2?
Yes, Buckingham Palace was indeed bombed during World War II.
During the war, London was heavily bombed by German planes in a campaign known as the Blitz. In September 1940, a German bomber dropped a bomb that hit the palace’s courtyard and destroyed the palace chapel.
Despite this damage, the palace remained standing and was repaired in the years following the war. In fact, the palace and its grounds served as a symbol of British resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Today, you can still see evidence of the bombing in the palace’s chapel, which was rebuilt after the war and features stained glass windows that depict the destruction and rebuilding of the chapel. It’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the British people during the war, and a testament to their enduring strength and determination.
Conclusion
Buckingham Palace is truly a masterpiece of history and architecture, filled with fascinating facts and stories that simply can’t be captured in one article. From the Changing of the Guard ceremony to the stunning Royal Mews and the world-class art exhibitions at the Queen’s Gallery, there’s so much to see and experience.
But to truly understand the majesty and significance of this incredible landmark, you simply have to visit it in person. So why not plan a trip to London and walk the grounds of Buckingham Palace yourself? You’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for this incredible palace and all that it represents.
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