A sense of cozy feeling comes when I think about London and it just takes me back to the era of Sherlock Holmes, imagining myself solving crimes in the city. Okay, I am not delusional, but London is a fascinating place with a vast history dating back 2000 years. Royalness is the term that first strikes us whenever we think about the UK. Certainly, it has some great monuments and ancient architecture but Buckingham Palace is the symbolic place that represents London and defines the term Royalty.
♔ Historical Events of Buckingham Palace
Have you ever heard the term Duke.? I was watching a film The Gentlemen, which involved a character owning a large part of a particular land, staying in a huge mansion, and claiming the title of Duke. I thought the Brits always come up with cool names, but then I figured out what that means. Well, The Dukes are the people who hold the highest hereditary title.
Originally termed Buckingham House, The Buckingham Palace was built for the Duke of Buckingham, John Sheffield, in 1703. In 1761, King George III bought it for his wife Queen Charlotte, renaming it The Queen’s House. It was in 1820 when King George IV ordered the conversion of the house into a palace. Due to the budget expansion and the death of George III, the king’s younger brother William IV, took over the mantle and looked after the transformation. Queen Victoria later succeeded it in 1837 and made it her official residence.
At the start of the 20th century, significant changes were made to the palace’s interiors along with the installation of lights and the building of the famous balcony. During crucial times like World War I and II, Buckingham Palace stood strong amidst the bombings, sustaining only minor damage. The Queen’s decision to stay in the palace during those crucial times rather than move to a safe place gained the people’s respect and trust.
♔ Architecture
Over the years, Buckingham Palace has undergone some changes in its architecture. In 1820, King George IV recruited John Nash as the architect to transform the house into a palace. Nash’s aspiring work included a neoclassical style and led to the construction of The Marble Arch, which was later moved to Hyde Park. Due to the expansion of the budget, Nash had to step down and Edward Blore was assigned as the new architect by King William IV.
Blore used some cost-effective methods and helped in the completion of the Palace. He designed the East Front of the Palace, now facing The Mall, in 1847 and the central balcony. The 20th century saw some changes in the architecture by Aston Webb.
♔ Inside The Buckingham Palace
Are you planning to visit Buckingham Palace? Here is the overview of The Buckingham Palace:
➤ State Rooms- They are a popular attraction in Buckingham Palace, mostly used on important occasions by the royal family. The throne room is the most popular as it displays the royal throne of the monarchs. Don’t miss the Gallery, where priceless paintings are displayed. The Ballroom, adorned with golden decorations, is often used for receptions and state ceremonies.
➤ The Grand Staircase- This masterpiece consists of 17 steps made out of stones from Portland. They are decorated with bronze and attractive lamps. This is the place where the Royal wedding of Prince Williams and Kate Middleton took place, and also where the changing of the guard ceremony begins.
➤ The White Drawing Room- It is one of the most beautiful rooms with an amazing chandelier hanging from the center of the ceiling. As the name suggests, it is very aesthetic in design and colored in elegant gold and white. It also consists of a secret room through which the Queen enters.
➤ The Queens Gallery- Located at the western front, it’s the place where you would find all the paintings, sculptures, and other art collections. There is a display of paintings by Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo.
Other attractions Include:
- Rose Garden
- Buckingham Palace Lake
♔ Best Time To Visit The Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is open to the general public and if you are planning to visit, then the best period would be from early July(5th) to late September (28th). It is suggested that you pre-book the tickets to secure a spot. People who would prefer exploring the place in a more peaceful manner then visit the palace during the weekdays. If you like the energetic atmosphere then you can go at any time between the given days.
Places To Eat
- Buckingham Palace Garden Cafe- Should try some exotic pastries, sandwiches, and bagels
- Bon Gusto- Fan of Italian? Try their classic pasta, meat, and seafood dishes
- Bbar- London is home to its burgers and fish & chips. You should check out this place for some fresh fish & chips
Lesser Known Facts about Buckingham Palace
- In 2002, more than one million people attended the Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee
- Three official Garden Parties are held every summer
- The Buckingham Palace survived 9 German Bombs during World War II
- The oldest part of the Palace is the wine vault, present beneath the West Wing
- The North-West pavilion was converted into a swimming pool in 1938
FAQ’s
Q.) Is it allowed to take pictures inside The Palace?
Yeah, clicking pictures is not prohibited.
Q.) Is there any kind of a dress code?
There is no formal dress code as such but it is advisable not to wear shorts
Q.) Where is The Buckingham Palace located.?
The Palace is located in the city of Westminster, London.
