Westminster
Buckingham Palace
The royal backdrop everyone recognises
Photo by Lea Fabienne on Unsplash
- Nearest Station
- Green ParkAbout 8 min walk
- Best Time
- Morning / DaytimeChanging of the Guard days get extremely crowded — for calm shots, go early or pick a day without the ceremony.
Best Shot
Suggested composition at Buckingham Palace
- Where to stand
- Around the base of the Victoria Memorial, or along the railings in front of the main gates
- Composition
- Shoot landscape with the palace as the backdrop and your subject off to one side. A straight-on composition from The Mall towards the palace also works well.
Tips
- Check the official Changing of the Guard schedule beforehand
- Don't get too close to the railings or security areas
- Assume drones are not allowed
Overview
Buckingham Palace, the British monarch's official residence, says “London” at a glance. Use the Victoria Memorial in front and the gilded gates as a backdrop for travel vlogs and souvenir shots.
- Main gates with gold detailing
- The Victoria Memorial statues
- The long straight view down The Mall
Creator Information
- Area
- Westminster
- Nearest Station
- Green ParkJubilee · Piccadilly · Victoria
- Walking Time
- About 8 min walk
- Best For
- Instagram / YouTube / Travel / Luxury
- Best Time
- Morning / DaytimeChanging of the Guard days get extremely crowded — for calm shots, go early or pick a day without the ceremony.
- Indoor / Outdoor
- Outdoor
- Free / Paid
- FreeExterior photography is free. Summer interior openings (State Rooms) are paid
- Rain Friendly
- Best in fair weather
- Filming Permission
- Permission often requiredThe surroundings are Royal Parks and security zones. Commercial filming and tripods may require permission, and drone flights are restricted.Read the filming permission guide
Nearest stations, prices, opening hours and filming rules may change. This information is currently being verified. Please check official sources before you go.
Within walking distance
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