Experience Royalty Like Never Before! Get Exclusive Access to Buckingham Palace's Secret Monarch Chambers

Step into a world of regal splendour and historical grandeur as Buckingham Palace, the iconic residence of British monarchs, opens its doors like never before. For the first time, visitors will be granted the unique opportunity to traverse the same path as dignitaries and royals, entering through the majestic front gates and across the forecourt, experiencing the palace as guests of official royal events.

The Seniors Discount Club is thrilled to share this once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the intimate chambers and stately rooms where monarchs from Queen Victoria to the late Queen Elizabeth II resided. King Charles III, in a move that reflects his vision for a modern monarchy, is offering the public greater access to the royal buildings, transforming them from private spaces into public places.


The Royal Collection Trust (RCT), which oversees the public openings of the palace, is extending this exclusive access to the East Wing outside the traditional summer tourist season. Following the overwhelming success of this year's summer opening, which saw record-breaking visitor numbers and the unveiling of the East Wing's central balcony for the first time in 175 years, the RCT has announced plans for 2025 that promise an even more immersive experience.


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The Buckingham Palace should be open for tours by January next year. Image Credit: Pexels/Dustin D


For those with a penchant for history and a love of the finer things, the 90-minute guided tours, available from January to May at a cost of £90 ($177), will delve deep into the history of the East Wing's regal rooms. This is a rare opportunity to visit the palace during a time when it is typically closed to the public, allowing for a more intimate and detailed exploration of its storied halls.


Buckingham Palace is not just a symbol of the British monarchy but a working palace, serving as the headquarters of the monarchy and the official London residence of the King. While King Charles III prefers to stay overnight at his nearby home, Clarence House, the palace remains the epicentre of royal affairs, where he conducts audiences and receptions.

The East Wing, constructed between 1847 and 1849 to accommodate Queen Victoria's expanding family, encloses the former open horse-shoe shaped royal residence. The opulent oriental-style decor of its principal rooms was inspired by the royal pavilion in Brighton, with many of its finest ceramics and furniture pieces relocated to Buckingham Palace.

Visitors on the guided tours will be treated to the splendour of the 240 ft-long principal corridor, the vibrant Yellow Drawing Room, and the Centre Room behind the famous balcony. While the public won't step onto the balcony itself, they will enjoy views down The Mall, imagining the countless historic moments witnessed from this vantage point.


The Yellow Drawing Room is a feast for the eyes, featuring an oriental-style fireplace from George IV's seaside palace, an elaborate gilded curtain rail, and wallpaper that was rediscovered and hung at the request of Queen Mary. The Centre Room shines with a newly restored glass chandelier resembling a lotus flower and boasts two Chinese 18th-century imperial silk wall hangings, gifts to Queen Victoria from the Emperor of China.

As you wander through these hallowed halls, you'll encounter a treasure trove of art and artefacts, including exquisite Chinese porcelain, ornate vases, and a collection of royal paintings that tell the story of Britain's past monarchs.

The Seniors Discount Club invites you to seize this opportunity to walk in the footsteps of royalty and witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace's secret chambers. Further details and ticket sale dates will be announced in due course, but anticipation is already high for this unprecedented access to the palace's East Wing.


In addition to the palace tours, new £1 ($1.97) tickets to Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse have been announced for 2025, aimed at making the royal residences more welcoming and inclusive. Eligible individuals can bring their household members to explore these historic sites for just £1 ($1.97) each.

For those interested in the royal family's history and the architectural marvels of their residences, guided tours of St James's Palace, including a view of the Chapel Royal, will also be available in spring 2025.
Key Takeaways

  • Buckingham Palace is opening its East Wing to tourists for guided tours outside of the traditional summer season, starting from 2025.
  • King Charles III aims to provide greater access to royal buildings, highlighting a shift from 'private spaces to public places'.
  • The tours will allow visitors to enter through the palace's front gates and explore the East Wing, which includes the famous balcony and Chinese-themed decor inspired by George IV's Royal Pavilion in Brighton.
  • New £1 ($1.97) tickets to Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse will be offered in 2025 to make the royal residences more welcoming and inclusive, particularly to those receiving certain benefits.
Stay tuned for more information on how to secure your spot on these exclusive tours, and prepare to immerse yourself in the legacy of British royalty. Share your thoughts and excitement with us in the comments below – are you ready to experience royalty like never before?
 
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