Buckingham Palace
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Built in 1702 BUCKINGHAM PALACE was originally built for a Duke of that name. The Royal Family acquired the building in 1762 and it is now popularly known as Buck House. The Queen resides there for 10 months in the year and part of the palace is open in July and August, though visitors are unlikely to meet the Queen strolling down the corridors.Britain is much more republican than a few years ago, though it is unlikely to drop the monarchy unless a totally unsuitable individual succeeds to the throne - that person will not be a catholic as they are debarred from the succession. Prince Charles has blotted his copybook by his treatment of Princess Diana but, though quirky, he is generally regarded as well meaning. His handsome, eldest son, William, second in line to the throne, is genuinely popular.
The main reason for going to Buckingham Palace is to see Changing of the Guard. This takes place every day from April-June inclusive and thereafter every alternate day. The New Guard marches to the Palace from Wellington Barracks with a Guards band; the Old Guard hands over in a ceremony during which the sentries are changed and then returns to barracks. The New Guard then marches to St James's Palace, leaving the detachment at Buckingham Palace.
Websites: www.royalresidences.com, www.royal.gov.uk/faq