Buckingham Palace, where the changing of the guard is one of London's biggest tourist attractions, will for the first time open its doors to public tours in August and September. Proceeds from the $12.50 admission fee will be used to help finance the repair of Windsor Castle, damaged by fire in January.
After the fire, a public outcry met the government's announcement that it would foot the bill for repairs, and the decision to open the palace while the royal family is away for the summer reflects Queen Elizabeth II's pledge to defray the cost to the public.The summertime tours are to continue for five years, raising a projected 70 percent of the amount needed to repair Windsor. In addition, beginning Jan. 1, a $4.50 fee will be charged for admission to the grounds of Windsor Castle.
Beginning the second week of August, about 18 rooms and areas in the State Apartments section of Buckingham Palace will be open for touring. Among them will be the ballroom, state dining room, throne room, three drawing rooms, and the picture gallery.