The garden at Buckingham Palace opens for self-guided tours for the first time tomorrow, Friday 9th July, until September.

Buckingham Palace Garden

Source: John Campbell

Visitors can now enjoy a unique perspective of Buckingham Palace from the extensive grounds

Groups are invited to explore the grounds of Her Majesty The Queen’s London residence which features the 156-metre Herbaceous Border, plane trees planted by and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and views of the island across the 3.5-acre lake.

In addition, visitors will be allowed to picnic on one of the sweeping lawns and take in features including the Rose Garden, summer house and wildflower meadow which can be viewed through one of the guided tours that will run each day.

GLT’s Harry Rogers (pictured below) has been enjoying a sneak preview of the garden so keep an eye out for his full review on the website. 

Harry Rogers at the opening of Buckingham Palace Garden

Harry attended the press preview of the opening - it’s the first time the Garden has opened to the public.

The current landscape of the historic 39-acre garden dates back to the 1820s when George IV turned Buckingham House into a palace. Set in the heart of London, the garden is home to an array of flora and fauna, including rare native plants seldom seen in the capital. 

The garden is a rich biodiverse habitat, with more than 1,000 trees and 320 different wildflowers and grasses. It is also home to several botanicals used to make Buckingham Palace Gin, including lemon verbena, hawthorn berries, bay leaves and mulberry leaves. 

Daily talks by Visitor Services Wardens and trails for families are included as part of the visit. 

Pre-booking is essential. For visitor information and tickets visit www.rct.uk or call 0303 123 7300.