Buckingham Palace Accessibility Guide

Overview

Buckingham Palace opens its State Rooms to the public each summer, from late July through September. These 19 lavishly furnished rooms form the working heart of the monarchy and include the Throne Room, the Ballroom, and the Picture Gallery. The palace has invested in accessibility improvements, including lift access to the State Rooms route and a free wheelchair loan service. The palace gardens, one of the largest private gardens in London, are mostly paved and accessible.

Getting There

• Tube: Victoria station (Victoria, District, Circle lines) has step-free access. The palace is about an 8-minute wheel from the station via Buckingham Palace Road.
• Tube: Green Park station (Jubilee, Victoria, Piccadilly lines) also has step-free access. The approach through Green Park is paved and flat.
• Bus: Routes 11, 211, C1, and C10 stop near the palace. All London buses have ramps.
• Accessible entrance: The accessible entrance is on Buckingham Palace Road (south side), separate from the main visitor entrance on Buckingham Gate. Signs direct wheelchair users from the ticket check area.
• Drop-off: A designated drop-off point is available on Buckingham Palace Road. Let staff know in advance if you need it.

Wheelchair Accessibility

• A lift provides step-free access to the State Rooms tour route. Staff guide wheelchair users to the lift at the start of the tour.
• The tour route through the 19 State Rooms is on one level once you arrive via lift. Floors are smooth and well-maintained.
• A free manual wheelchair is available on request. Book this when you purchase your tickets or call ahead to reserve.
• The palace gardens are mostly paved paths. Some gravel sections exist near the lake, but the main circuit is wheelchair-friendly.
• The Changing of the Guard ceremony can be watched from the palace forecourt area, but crowds are large. Arrive early to get a front position.

Accessible Toilets

Accessible toilets are available inside the palace on the State Rooms tour route and near the garden exit. Both have grab rails, emergency pull cords, and sufficient space. There is no Changing Places toilet on site.

Tips for Visitors with Disabilities

• Book tickets online and mention any accessibility needs. Companion tickets are free with proof of disability (Access Card, Blue Badge, or PIP letter).
• The multimedia guide is included with your ticket. It has audio description and British Sign Language options.
• Allow about 2 to 2.5 hours for the full visit, including the gardens.
• The garden cafe has step-free access and accessible seating. Prices are typical for central London tourist venues.
• Visit on a weekday if possible. Weekends in August are the busiest times.
• The gift shop at the end of the tour is step-free and has wide aisles.