Top Things to Do Near Buckingham Palace

If you’ve just watched the Changing of the Guard or snapped a photo in front of those iconic palace gates, don’t rush off too quickly. Buckingham Palace is right in the heart of Central London, meaning there’s plenty more to explore just a short stroll away. Whether you’re into lush parks, historic buildings, or simply want to take a scenic walk, you’re in the perfect spot to continue your London adventure.

Let’s take a relaxed wander through some of the best attractions near Buckingham Palace and see what surprises await just beyond those regal gates.

Just steps from the Palace, St James’s Park is one of the most peaceful pockets in Central London. It’s the kind of place where time slows down. You can grab a coffee from a kiosk, find a bench by the lake, and watch the swans glide by—all while taking in stunning views of the London Eye, Horse Guards Parade, and even the palace itself.

This royal park is smaller than Hyde Park but has a more intimate, storybook-like feel. In spring, the flower beds explode in colour. In autumn, the trees turn golden and seem to whisper history. Even better? You’ll often spot pelicans lounging by the water—yes, actual pelicans, gifted by a Russian ambassador back in 1664!

St James’s Park is more than just a walk in the park. It’s a slice of royal charm, full of hidden viewpoints, cozy bridges, and picture-perfect corners. It’s also a popular route on many London walking tours, especially those focused on royal landmarks.

So, if you’re wondering about things to do in Central London that are both relaxing and iconic, this should be high on your list.

Leaving the park behind, take a stroll down The Mall—a wide, ceremonial road leading from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square. It’s the very route used for royal processions, and walking it feels like stepping into a living postcard.

Lined with Union Jack flags and framed by greenery, The Mall is perfect for slow sightseeing. It leads you straight to Admiralty Arch, an impressive structure that marks the gateway between the palace grounds and the bustling city beyond.

Here’s where history buffs can pause for a second. The arch was commissioned by King Edward VII as a memorial to Queen Victoria. Today, it’s a symbol of the seamless blend of history and everyday life in London.

From this point, you’re at a crossroads. Turn left toward Trafalgar Square, continue straight to Charing Cross, or wander back into the nearby side streets filled with quirky galleries and cafés.

That’s the magic of this area—so many tourist spots near Buckingham Palace are within walking distance, and every corner leads to a new discovery.

Continue your walk down Birdcage Walk or head south from St James’s Park and you’ll quickly find yourself face-to-face with some of London’s biggest heavyweights. Westminster Abbey and Big Ben are less than a 15-minute walk from Buckingham Palace, and they’re absolute must-sees for anyone exploring nearby attractions.

Westminster Abbey is where kings and queens have been crowned for over a thousand years. But it’s not just a monument—it’s a living church with weekly services, ongoing restoration, and a breathtaking interior that leaves most visitors speechless.

Just beyond it, the chimes of Big Ben echo through the air, drawing people like a magnet to the Houses of Parliament. It’s hard not to stop and stare. These landmarks aren’t just major tourist spots near Buckingham Palace, they’re part of London’s soul.

And since you're already nearby, why not time your visit around the hourly bell chimes? The area is especially atmospheric around sunset, when the golden light bounces off the Gothic architecture.

Many London walking tours include this loop—starting at the palace, sweeping through Westminster, and ending by the Thames. It’s a neat little route packed with history, culture, and classic views.

Right outside the palace gates sits the Victoria Memorial, a grand white-and-gold monument that celebrates Queen Victoria’s long reign. While it’s often the backdrop to the Changing of the Guard, it also offers one of the best photo ops in the area.

But beyond its Instagram appeal, it’s a great spot to sit, rest your feet, and people-watch. Street performers often entertain tourists nearby, and you might catch the distant sounds of horse hooves as the Household Cavalry trots past on their route through the city.

It’s also where you’ll find helpful walking signs pointing to nearby attractions like Green Park, Hyde Park Corner, and The Queen’s Gallery. With everything so connected, you don’t need a strict itinerary—just a sense of curiosity and comfortable shoes.

One great way to explore this area is by using the Visit London app, which offers walking routes, live maps, and real-time updates on events and closures. It’s a simple tool, but super handy for finding lesser-known gems or catching a guided tour nearby.

In fact, if you’re short on time but still want to see the highlights, the app includes a few “Royal London” self-guided routes that start right at Buckingham Palace and loop through all the best attractions near Buckingham Palace.

Visiting Buckingham Palace is only the beginning. What makes this area of Central London truly special is the way everything connects—history flows into modern life, and famous landmarks sit side-by-side with quiet parks and hidden alleys.

You don’t need a tour guide to enjoy it (although there are some fantastic London walking tours if that’s your thing). Just start walking, keep your eyes open, and let the city lead the way.

From the leafy paths of St James’s Park to the Gothic spires of Westminster and the red-brick charm of The Mall, every step reveals a little more of London’s rich story. And since the area is packed with both well-known and lesser-known tourist spots near Buckingham Palace, there’s something to see no matter how much—or how little—time you have.

So next time you find yourself in front of the palace gates, don’t just snap a photo and move on. Slow down. Look around. You’re in one of the most iconic parts of London, and there’s plenty more to uncover just a few steps away.