Learn more about Buckingham Palace, Her Majesty’s London residence, below:
Where is it located?
Buckingham Palace is located on The Mall in London. As it is the official and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom, it is widely felt to be the point of convergence for the British people in times of national celebration and sadness.
When was it built and used as a royal residence?
The original Buckingham House was a large townhouse built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703 on land that had been privately owned for at least 150 years. The building was then acquired by King George III in 1761 to be used as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. At this point, it gained the name ‘The Queen’s House’.
Throughout the 19th century, the house was expanded by architects John Nash and Edward Blore who added three wings around the central courtyard. Now known as Buckingham Palace, Queen Victoria became the first reigning monarch to live there upon her accession in 1837.
The last substantial development came when the East Front was added between the late 19th and early 20thcenturies, which is most commonly recognised by the balcony where the Royal Family gathers on significant occasions.
Who has lived there?
All of the monarchs since Queen Victoria have lived at Buckingham Palace during their reign as it is the official office for the monarch of the United Kingdom. Whilst it was still Buckingham House, 14 of King George III’s and Queen Charlotte’s 15 children were born there, including the future King William IV and Queen Victoria father, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn.
Following her accession and relocation from Kensington Palace, eight of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s nine children were born at Buckingham Palace. Many of the following children of subsequent royals were either born abroad or in UK residences such as Windsor Castle.
Queen Elizabeth was not born at Buckingham Palace; however, three of her four children were born there, with the exception of Princess Anne who was born at Clarence House in 1950.
Which key events have happened here?
Buckingham Palace has been the centre of national rejoicing for many years. It has seen various jubilees, births, weddings, state banquets and multiple Trooping the Colour ceremonies. It has also witnessed many tragedies including the deaths of monarchs, such as King Edward VII and has been the centre of national mourning, most notably when Diana, Princess of Wales died in 1997.
Who is it used by today?
Buckingham Palace is the official office of the monarch of the United Kingdom and is the London residence of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. It is also the city home of Prince Andrew, Duke of York and Prince Edward and Sophie, The Earl and Countess of Wessex. The official offices of Princess Anne and Princess Alexandra are also housed there.
