Buckingham Palace, City of Westminster, London

The Buckingham Palace serves as the principal work place and the official residence of British Monarchy. The Place is located in City of Westminster in London and it is the setting for royal hospitality and state occasions. During times of rejoicing in the nation, the palace is usually the main focus of the British people showcasing its significant status in the country. Originally, Buckingham Palace was actually known as the Buckingham House and the building that makes the core of the palace today was a big townhouse that was built in 1705 by Duke of Buckingham. 

In 1761, George III acquired it and served as the private residential place for Queen Charlotte. At that time, the palace was referred to as the ‘Queen’s House’. Architects Edward Blore and John Nash enlarged the building in the 19th century and three wings were formed around the central courtyard. When Queen Victoria ascended to power in 1837, Buckingham Palace officially became the royal palace and a few other structural additions were done. The East front contains the famous balcony where traditionally, the royal family usually congregates and greets the crowds of people outside. 

During the era of World War II, a German bomb destroyed the palace chapel and the site was used for building the Queen’s Gallery. In 1962, the public was allowed access to the gallery where the Royal Collection was exhibited for public viewing. Most of the original interior designs that were built in early 19th century continue to survive even to day. The state rooms which are used both for state entertaining and official purposes are open to meters of the public every year between August and September during the well known Palace’s Summer Opening. Some rooms in the Buckingham Palace are furnished with Chinese regency style including fittings and furniture that was brought from the Carlton House and from Royal Pavilion in Brighton. 

Buckingham Palace Garden which is found at the palace is London’s largest private garden. Buckingham Palace currently serves as the main residential place or Queen Elizabeth II who has been reigning since 1952 and was coroneted in 1953. Her Majesty also has other residences in the Balmoral Castle and Sandringham House as well. Perhaps the most interesting occasion that you shouldn’t probably miss while visiting the Buckingham Palace is the changing of the guard. This occasion takes place between May- July daily in the morning and a few other times as well. 

The changing of the guard is done based on whether the weather permits or not and you might be lucky to find the occasion in action. At the outside, a board will be place to inform the public if the guard ceremony is going to be taking place or not. If you want to witness changing of the guard at its best, it is advisable that you arrive at the palace early so that you can get a perfect view. During Summer Opening, the public are allowed to visit the palace while the queen is residing at Balmoral palace.