St. James's Palace is a working royal palace on Marlborough Road in London, begun under Henry VIII in 1531. Its red-brick Tudor gatehouse survives, with Henry VIII's monogram above the entrance. The palace is not open to the public, so plan to see it from outside. A visit can also coincide with the Changing of the Guard Mount, held here on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11 AM. The gates and guards make a good stop for a closer look at royal London and a photo.
A palace begun under Henry VIII
Construction of St. James's Palace began in 1531 on the site of a former hospital and was mostly complete by 1536. The red-brick building was commissioned during Henry VIII's reign. Much of the original work remains, including the gatehouse, parts of the state rooms and the Chapel Royal.
The palace was built for Henry VIII's second wife, Anne Boleyn, who was executed before she could move in. Mary I later died there. These histories belong to a royal residence that remains in use for major events.
What you can see from outside
The gatehouse is the clearest surviving feature to look for from the street. Henry VIII's monogram marks the Tudor entrance, and the red brick sets the palace apart from the stone façades of many London landmarks.
The palace is not generally open for public visits. You can see its exterior and the sentries on duty at the gates; the state rooms and Chapel Royal are not part of a regular public visit.
Häufige Fragen
Can you go inside St. James's Palace?
Public access inside is limited. Plan to see the palace from outside.
When is the Changing of the Guard Mount at St. James's Palace?
It takes place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11 AM, according to the supplied visit information.
How early should I arrive for the guard ceremony?
Arrive at least 30 minutes beforehand to get a viewing spot.
What should I look for at St. James's Palace?
Look for the Tudor gatehouse and Henry VIII's monogram above its entrance. You can also see the sentries at the gates.
