Buckingham Palace has long stood as a symbol of British royalty, with the iconic balcony serving as a focal point for national events. From Queen Victoria’s grand welcome of returning troops to George V’s victory celebrations at the end of the Great War, and the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, the balcony has been a centerpiece of historical moments. Yet, while the balcony has captured the imagination of the public, the rooms behind the palace’s famous net curtains have remained a private retreat—until now.
In an unprecedented move, Buckingham Palace is opening the doors to these previously restricted rooms for the first time through a series of exclusive £75 tours starting next week. This article explores what visitors can expect from this unique opportunity, highlighting the rich history and remarkable features of the newly restored East Wing.
A Historic Opportunity: Exclusive Tours of Buckingham Palace’s East Wing
For the first time in 175 years, Buckingham Palace’s East Wing will be accessible to the public through a series of exclusive tours. These £75 limited tours offer a rare chance to explore the palace’s previously private rooms and experience the grandeur of royal history up close. Each tour is limited to just 20 people, making this a highly sought-after experience.
Behind the Net Curtains: The East Wing’s Hidden Treasures
The East Wing of Buckingham Palace has been shrouded in mystery, hidden behind the iconic net curtains that have witnessed countless state occasions. The room behind the curtains, known for its opulent decor and historical significance, is finally being revealed to the public. Visitors can now step into this exclusive space and admire its exquisite features, which include:
- A Stunning Glass Chandelier: The Centre Room behind the balcony features a newly restored glass chandelier, designed to resemble a lotus flower. This exquisite piece of craftsmanship adds a touch of elegance to the room’s decor.
- Chinese 18th-Century Imperial Silk Wall Hangings: These stunning wall hangings were presented to Queen Victoria by Guangxu, the Emperor of China, on her Diamond Jubilee in 1897. They offer a glimpse into the grandeur of 18th-century Chinese art and craftsmanship.
The Legacy of George IV: Chinoiserie and Its Influence
The story of the East Wing’s decor begins with George IV’s passion for chinoiserie in the 18th century. At his Royal Pavilion in Brighton, George IV amassed a collection of unique ceramic objects and furniture influenced by East Asian design. When Queen Victoria acquired the Royal Pavilion in 1850, she incorporated many of these exquisite items into the design of the East Wing at Buckingham Palace.
The East Wing’s renovation was part of a £370 million ten-year reservicing program, which involved the careful removal and restoration of approximately 3,500 objects. This ambitious project aimed to preserve the historical integrity of the palace while updating essential systems like wiring and plumbing.
The East Wing’s Iconic Rooms: What to See on Your Tour
The East Wing’s tour offers an opportunity to explore several iconic rooms, each with its own unique historical significance and artistic features:
- The Yellow Drawing Room: This room was once adorned with yellow damask but was later transformed by Queen Mary into a space featuring 18th-century hand-painted Chinese wallpaper. The wallpaper’s vibrant yellow background has faded to a soft creamy hue, but its intricate design of trees and birds remains a captivating sight.
- Chinese Porcelain Pagodas and the Kylin Clock: Visitors will be able to admire two nine-tiered hexagonal Chinese porcelain pagodas and the Kylin clock, which features two turquoise Chinese lions. These artifacts reflect the influence of East Asian art on the palace’s decor.
A Walk Through History: The Principal Corridor
One of the highlights of the East Wing tour is the Principal Corridor, which spans the entire width of the palace. This grand hallway is adorned with royal paintings and historical artworks, including:
- Portraits by Gainsborough and Russian Art: The corridor features portraits by renowned artist Thomas Gainsborough and Russian paintings gifted to Victoria by Emperor Nicholas I.
- William Powell Frith’s Windsor Wedding Painting: A large painting by William Powell Frith depicts the 1863 Windsor wedding of a future Edward VII and Queen Alexandra. The artwork captures Queen Victoria in mourning black, observing the ceremony from a balcony.
- Ebonised Cabinets and French Furnishings: The corridor also showcases ebonised cabinets crafted in England with Japanese panels, as well as a richly decorated cylinder bureau from France, acquired after the French Revolution.
Book Your Tour: How to Secure Your Spot
The exclusive tours of Buckingham Palace’s East Wing begin next Monday and offer a rare glimpse into the palace’s hidden rooms. Due to high demand, tickets for these tours sold out within hours of going on sale earlier this year. To participate in these tours, visitors must also purchase a standard ticket for the Palace’s State Rooms, where they can see Jonathan Yeo’s dramatic new portrait of King Charles in the ballroom.
For more details on Buckingham Palace tours and summer openings, visit the Royal Collection website.
The Future of Buckingham Palace: Funding and Restoration Efforts
The ten-year reservicing program, which has made these tours possible, is funded through a temporary uplift in the Sovereign Grant. The treasury approved a £369 million budget for this extensive restoration project, ensuring that Buckingham Palace remains a fitting symbol of British heritage for future generations.
Conclusion: A Unique Royal Experience Awaits
Buckingham Palace’s East Wing tours offer a unique opportunity to explore one of the palace’s most private and historically significant spaces. From stunning 18th-century Chinese art to grand royal portraits, the East Wing’s newly restored rooms provide a captivating glimpse into the past. If you’re lucky enough to secure a ticket, you’re in for an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich heritage of British royalty.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic moment and witness the beauty and grandeur of Buckingham Palace’s East Wing. For more information and to check for future openings, visit the Royal Collection website.
By focusing on the rich history and unique features of Buckingham Palace’s East Wing, this article aims to attract readers who are interested in royal history, art, and exclusive cultural experiences.