The British Royal Institution

Buckingham Palace

In 2013, British taxpayers contributed over £35 million towards the upkeep of the royal monarchy - a figure that continues to spark debate among citizens. The question, "Is the British Royal Family worth the money?" is one that has often been asked. However, with an estimated £500 million generated annually through tourism associated with the Royal Family, many still argue in favour of its continued presence and relevance.

A key attraction is Buckingham Palace, the official residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch. Open to the public for around 60 days each year - typically during August and September - the palace draws large crowds. In the previous year alone, approximately 600,000 tourists paid to step inside this iconic royal residence.

In 2014, the Palace was open to the public from 2 August to 28 September. I was among the many who seized the opportunity to visit and experience the grandeur firsthand.

Buckingham Palace is as much a working institution as it is a historic landmark. It houses an impressive 775 rooms, including 19 opulent State Rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. The building spans over 77,000 sq. m from basement to rooftop - a staggering space that demands meticulous care.

The palace contains 1,514 doors and 760 windows - all of which are cleaned every six weeks to maintain their immaculate condition. Inside, more than 40,000 light bulbs illuminate the rooms, and over 300 clocks and watches form one of the largest collections of functioning timepieces in the world. These are diligently maintained by two full-time horological conservators who wind them weekly and ensure their precision.

With such scale and detail, it’s no surprise that close to 500 staff are employed to keep the palace running smoothly - a reflection of the immense logistical operation behind the glamour.

Our first attempt to witness the Changing of the Guard on 11 August 2014 was thwarted by the sheer size of the crowd. Arriving slightly too late, we found ourselves far from the palace gates and were only able to catch a distant glimpse of the ceremony.

Determined not to miss our main visit, we returned the following day, arriving well before our scheduled 4:30 p.m. admission time. Joining the queue with fellow visitors, we waited eagerly for our turn to step inside one of the most recognized residences in the world. 

We could not see the actual Change of Guards. Instead, we could flip through the Magazine extended to us to have a feel of the ceremony.

All visitors have to exit from the rear of the Palace after the tour.

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Kensington Palace

Part of Kensington Palace has been opened to the public in recent years - a move that likely reflects the Royal Family’s efforts to generate additional income and promote greater public engagement with their historic residences.

Located in central London, Kensington Palace remains an official residence of the British Royal Family. Among its most well-known current occupants are Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales (formerly Duchess of Cambridge). The palace also houses several other senior royals, including Prince Harry, Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester (youngest grandson of King George V and Queen Mary), and his wife, Brigitte, Duchess of Gloucester. Other residents include Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, and his wife, Katharine, Duchess of Kent, as well as Prince Michael of Kent (another grandson of King George V) and his wife, Marie Christine.

Kensington Palace also holds great historical significance, having once been the home of Prince Charles and Princess Diana during their marriage. It was here that Princess Diana lived and raised her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, and where many of the public’s lasting memories of her are rooted.

Front and rear of Kensington Palace.

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Aside from Prince William and Prince Harry, another prominent royal figure is Prince Edward, who is often recognized for his regular appearances at the annual Wimbledon Tennis Tournament.