Did you know that you can have a tour and afternoon tea at Buckingham Palace? The palace is open to visitors to explore the state rooms for some days in the summer months, and the cafe serves lunches and afternoon teas. I visited last week, at the end of July, to enjoy afternoon tea and visit the palace. Despite living in London, I have never been on a visit, so this was one to do and tick off my "London bucket list". I arrived early for my timed entry slot and went through the airport-style security and received an audio guide. I recommend the audio guide so that you can learn about the different state rooms and the paintings in the galleries (or furniture in the other rooms).
It was another hot day, and I visited the palace and had a quick look at the gardens in the front.
I bought the official souvenir guide.
The palace state rooms on display date to the early 1800s when the palace was used as a residence. I was able to see the throne room, which had the two chairs and paintings of the current monarchy - Charles and Camilla. I also saw the picture galleries, but the music room and another couple of rooms were under renovation and scaffolding. The picture galleries had also recently been renovated with the paintings rearranged.
After the tour, I went to the cafe and wanted to have the afternoon tea with sparkling wine. I also ordered a trifle.
They did not allow me to have tea for some reason (I am not sure why as it says it is included on the menu, but they said it was not included if you have the sparkling wine option.) They did not have a vegtarian-only option, so I have the sandwiches to the table next door. There was ham and pickle, spiced chicken, smoked salmon, and egg mayonnaise. I did have the chicken and egg sandwiches. The tins of afternoon tea are pre-made.
The cakes included an apricot and almond Bakewell tart, lemon loaf, Guiness red velvet sponge with dark chocolate, and spiced carrot and wanut cake. This also included two scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
I liked the fruit trifle as well.
After the tour and afternoon tea at the cafe, I had a walk through the gardens to the exit. Th Buckingham Palace shop is at the gardens on the way to the exit.
I enjoyed the visit to Buckingham Palace to see the state rooms and have afternoon tea (minus the tea for some reason) at the cafe.
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