Buckingham Palace is the top-rated attraction in the UK on Google Maps. It holds a 4.5-star rating from nearly 178,000 reviews. This makes it more popular than other famous places like the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour and Big Ben. This recognition coincides with Google Maps’ 20th anniversary, showcasing the most popular places as voted for by users.
The Harry Potter Studio Tour comes second with a high 4.8-star rating. However, it has only around 89,000 reviews, fewer than Buckingham Palace. Big Ben takes third place with a 4.5-star rating from about 76,000 reviews. These rankings show London is home to many famous and culturally important sites.
Though many tourists already know about Buckingham Palace, it still draws a lot of interest worldwide. Its high rating shows the lasting appeal of the British monarchy and its historical and architectural importance. The palace remains a must-see for anyone visiting the capital, keeping it popular year after year.
Key Takeaways
Buckingham Palace is the best‐rated attraction in the UK on Google Maps, boasting a 4.5‑star rating based on nearly 178,000 reviews.
- Buckingham Palace has surpassed other renowned London attractions such as the Harry Potter Studio Tour and Big Ben in popularity according to Google Maps ratings.
- The East Wing of Buckingham Palace is now open to the public for guided tours, offering a rare insight into areas usually reserved for royal events.
- Tickets for the East Wing tour are highly sought after, with limited availability and steep prices reflecting the unique experience on offer.
Inside the historic Royal Residence
Buckingham Palace, located in the heart of Westminster, has served as the official London residence of the monarch since 1837. Constructed in 1703, the palace spans 39 acres and features 775 rooms. These include 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, 78 bathrooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, and 19 staterooms. Beyond its residential function, the palace is the administrative headquarters of the British monarchy.
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Visitors are drawn to Buckingham Palace for its deep-seated connection to national celebrations and royal ceremonies. The Changing of the Guard, a long-standing tradition, occurs at the palace every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. This ceremonial display remains a key attraction for both domestic and international tourists.
The palace has historically opened its doors to the public during the summer months. Since 1993, guided tours have allowed visitors to explore the State Rooms and gardens. This seasonal access provides a rare opportunity to experience the grandeur and heritage of one of the world’s most famous residences.
East Wing Opens to the public
The East Wing's public opening aims to make royal places more open and to help people understand the monarchy’s history and traditions better. This effort shows a continued goal to share Buckingham Palace’s cultural and architectural importance with the public.
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The wing was renovated for over five years, with a focus on keeping its historical details whilst making it more accessible to the public. These renovations aimed to bring back the East Wing’s beautiful appearance and help visitors appreciate its historical importance in today’s monarchy.
Guided tours of the East Wing started on 15 July 2024. They offer a rare look into areas usually used for royal events like birthdays, weddings and coronations. This is the first time the public can visit private areas and the main corridor. Visitors get a close-up look at the palace’s ceremonial spaces, which have been key to royal life for centuries.
Tickets for the East Wing tour, costing around £75, sold out quickly after being announced. The tours are limited to only 20 visitors at a time, helping to give a more detailed and personal experience. Participants can explore historic rooms more closely and hear insights from knowledgeable guides.
Due to high demand, it’s not clear if more tour dates will be added. The Royal Collection Trust will decide about extending public access after evaluating the trial period. This careful approach aims to keep the palace's historical importance whilst also considering public interest.
This tour gives a good look at the palace’s grand interiors and gardens. The State Rooms, used by the monarch for official events, feature amazing art and rare furniture. Tickets cost £32, making it a cheaper option whilst still offering access to iconic palace areas.