The Abbey and the Palace
A Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace combo tour pairs the coronation church with the monarch’s official London residence — two pillars of the British monarchy separated by a 15-minute walk through St James’s Park. The combination covers the spiritual and ceremonial heart (the abbey — coronations, weddings, burials) and the administrative and residential centre (the palace — state rooms, the Changing of the Guard, the balcony appearances) of the British Crown.
Buckingham Palace State Rooms are open to visitors for approximately 10 weeks each summer (typically late July to late September, when the monarch is at Balmoral). The 19 State Rooms — used for official entertaining — contain paintings from the Royal Collection (Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer, Canaletto), furnishings, and the Throne Room. Outside the summer opening, the exterior, the forecourt (Changing of the Guard), and the Royal Mews (the royal carriages and horses) are the accessible elements.
The Changing of the Guard takes place at 11:00 AM (daily in summer, alternate days in winter — check the schedule). The ceremony is free to watch from the palace gates and the Victoria Memorial.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I go inside Buckingham Palace?
The State Rooms are open approximately late July to late September. Tickets must be booked in advance and sell out. Outside this window, the exterior, the Changing of the Guard, and the Royal Mews are accessible.
How far is Buckingham Palace from Westminster Abbey?
Approximately 15 minutes on foot through St James’s Park. The walk itself — through one of London’s finest royal parks — is part of the experience.
Can I see the Changing of the Guard and the abbey in one morning?
Yes — the Changing of the Guard is at 11:00 AM. An early-morning abbey visit (first entry, approximately 9:30 AM) followed by the ceremony is the efficient sequencing.