Royal Mews
Step into the world of royal transport! See magnificent carriages, including the Gold State Coach, and meet the horses that serve the monarchy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Royal Mews
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the world of royal transport! See magnificent carriages, including the Gold State Coach, and meet the horses that serve the monarchy.
"It felt incredibly special to be able to see the magnificent royal horses and the stunning historic carriages up close."
🎟️ Book 'Royal Day Out' Tickets
Consider the 'Royal Day Out' package for access to the State Rooms & Queen's Gallery too!
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Photography is generally allowed, so snap away at the stunning carriages and horses!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gold State Coach
Main Exhibition Hall
Witness the opulent 1762 coach, a symbol of British monarchy used in coronations and royal weddings.
Working Royal Horses
Stables
See the majestic Windsor Greys and Cleveland Bays, the horses that pull royal carriages.
Historic Royal Carriages
Exhibition Hall
Admire a collection of magnificent carriages, from ceremonial coaches to daily transport.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Royal Mews
What to Expect at the Mews
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book 'Royal Day Out' Tickets
Consider the 'Royal Day Out' package for access to the State Rooms & Queen's Gallery too!
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Photography is generally allowed, so snap away at the stunning carriages and horses!
🎧 Utilize the Audio Tour
Enhance your visit with the free audio tour for fascinating historical context.
⏳ Allow About an Hour
The Royal Mews is a focused exhibit, typically taking around 60 minutes to explore.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book 'Royal Day Out' Tickets
Consider the 'Royal Day Out' package for access to the State Rooms & Queen's Gallery too!
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Photography is generally allowed, so snap away at the stunning carriages and horses!
🎧 Utilize the Audio Tour
Enhance your visit with the free audio tour for fascinating historical context.
⏳ Allow About an Hour
The Royal Mews is a focused exhibit, typically taking around 60 minutes to explore.
🐴 See the Working Horses
Don't miss the chance to see the magnificent horses that are still part of royal duties.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Royal Mews for its impressive collection of historic royal carriages, especially the iconic Gold State Coach, and the opportunity to see the magnificent working horses up close. The staff are often highlighted for their friendliness and helpfulness, making it an educational and inspiring experience for all ages. Some visitors note that the Mews is relatively compact and can be explored within an hour.
"This is an amazing Carriage house around the corner from the entrance and exit to Buckingham Palace. Such a treat to see carriages that have carried kings and queens on special occasions. There were also stalls with horses and information to be learned about the staff on hand (who all live upstairs for generations!). Amazing and so worth the cost. You can walk around as long as you like. Kids are welcomed too! Take as many pictures as you like!!!"
Angela Criscola
"Went here because I wanted to see the royal carriages in person.
Since I live in the U.S., I've only ever seen them on TV, and even if you live in England and might have seen them in a parade, you most likely only saw them from far away and in passing.
At the Royal Mews, you can see all of them all at once, parked, and up close.
I was curious about the name "Mews" and it turns out this was where the royal hawks used to be kept as they "mewed" meaning moulted their feathers, a time when they couldn't be used for hunting.
The place itself is relatively small. However, they try to inform you as much as possible as to what you're looking at with both signs and a free audio tour.
And even if you don't really pay that much attention to all that info, the craftsmanship of the carriages themselves are amazing to look at.
In addition, when we went we saw a few horses in the stables, a couple of which were being prepared for the police.
We went on a rainy Friday morning in late summer and even though I bought tickets ahead of time to be safe, when we arrived there was no wait and we walked straight in.
I also saw a small group of people join a tour with a docent, but even without one, we still enjoyed the tour."
Tricia Avenido
"We recently visited The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace, and it was a truly memorable experience. It felt incredibly special to be able to see the magnificent royal horses and the stunning historic carriages up close — especially the iconic Gold State Coach used for coronations.
There’s something quite magical about being so close to such an important part of royal tradition and history. My child and I were both fascinated and genuinely impressed.
The staff were absolutely wonderful — warm, friendly, and always happy to answer questions or offer guidance. It was a lovely day out, both educational and inspiring. Highly recommend for anyone with an interest in the British Royal Family or heritage in general."
Olha Yakovleva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Mews is located at Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 1RT. It's easily accessible by public transport, with several Tube stations nearby including Victoria, Green Park, and St. James's Park.
The Royal Mews is situated within the Buckingham Palace complex. Follow signs from the palace grounds; it's a short walk from the main palace entrance.
On-street parking is limited and expensive in the area. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a taxi to reach the Royal Mews.
Yes, you can purchase tickets specifically for the Royal Mews, or opt for a 'Royal Day Out' ticket which includes access to the State Rooms and Queen's Gallery.
Most visitors find the Tube to be the most convenient and efficient way to reach the Royal Mews. Victoria Station is a popular choice.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Royal Mews tickets online in advance through the official Royal Collection Trust website, or at the ticket office on the day of your visit, subject to availability. Booking ahead is recommended, especially for the 'Royal Day Out' package.
The Royal Mews typically opens around 10:00 AM and closes at 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM, with last admission usually an hour before closing. It's best to check the official Royal Collection Trust website for the most up-to-date opening hours as they can vary seasonally.
Ticket prices vary, but a standard adult ticket for the Royal Mews is around £15-£20. The 'Royal Day Out' ticket, which includes the State Rooms and Queen's Gallery, offers better value if you plan to visit all three attractions.
While not always mandatory, booking your Royal Mews tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to guarantee entry and avoid potential queues.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and children. Family tickets are also often offered. Check the Royal Collection Trust website for current pricing and concession details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the Royal Mews. It's a focused exhibition, perfect for a shorter, engaging visit.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the Royal Mews for personal use. However, flash photography and tripods may be restricted.
While there isn't a formal guided tour, a free audio guide is available to enhance your understanding of the exhibits. Staff are also on hand to answer questions.
Absolutely! Children are welcomed at the Royal Mews and often find the carriages and horses fascinating. It's an educational and engaging experience for younger visitors.
Historically, a 'mews' was a building where royal hawks were kept while they moulted their feathers ('mewed'). Over time, the term came to refer to stables for horses and carriages, as seen at the Royal Mews.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There isn't a dedicated cafe within the Royal Mews itself. However, there are several cafes and restaurants located within Buckingham Palace or in the surrounding areas of Victoria and St. James's.
Picnics are generally not permitted inside the exhibition areas. You can find nearby parks like St. James's Park for a picnic before or after your visit.
The area around Buckingham Palace offers a wide range of dining, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Consider exploring Victoria Street or nearby Belgravia for diverse culinary choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The Gold State Coach is a must-capture, as are the various other ornate carriages. Don't forget to photograph the majestic horses in their stables.
Yes, personal photography is permitted inside the Royal Mews. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.
Tripods are typically not allowed inside the Royal Mews to ensure smooth visitor flow and prevent damage to exhibits. Check the specific rules upon arrival.
Morning visits often provide softer lighting and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. However, the indoor exhibits are well-lit throughout the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Consider the 'Royal Day Out' ticket if you're planning to visit other attractions like the State Rooms. It offers great value and allows for a full day of royal exploration. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a bit of walking around the Mews and potentially the surrounding palace grounds.
🏛️ History Buffs
Delve into the stories behind the working horses and the dedicated staff who maintain this historic institution. Understanding the evolution of royal transport, from the earliest coaches to their modern-day use, offers a unique perspective on the continuity and adaptation of the monarchy.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for a morning visit to potentially catch softer light and fewer people, which can make capturing the grandeur of the Gold State Coach and other exhibits easier. While tripods are usually not allowed, the well-lit interiors and the sheer scale of the exhibits mean you can still get stunning photos with a standard camera or smartphone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Carriages: A Journey Through Time
Beyond the Gold State Coach, the Mews displays a variety of other important vehicles. You'll find the Irish State Coach, often used for State Visits, and the Scottish State Coach, which has a unique glass-panelled rear. The Glass Coach, used for royal weddings, is another highlight, offering a glimpse into the more intimate ceremonial transport of the monarchy. Each carriage is meticulously maintained, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and the evolution of royal transport over the centuries.
Exploring the Royal Mews provides a unique perspective on the pageantry and tradition associated with the British Royal Family. It’s not just about looking at old vehicles; it’s about understanding their role in significant historical events and appreciating the artistry involved in their creation and preservation. The detailed information provided alongside each exhibit helps visitors connect with the history and purpose of these grand conveyances.
The Working Horses of the Royal Mews
Alongside the Greys, you'll also find Cleveland Bays, one of England's oldest horse breeds, known for their strength and versatility. These horses are often used for heavier duties and provide a different, yet equally impressive, presence in the stables. The Mews staff are dedicated to the welfare of these animals, ensuring they are healthy, well-groomed, and expertly trained for their royal roles.
Visitors often remark on the impressive condition and calm demeanor of the horses. It's a chance to see these working animals in their environment, understanding the significant role they play in royal processions and events. The stables themselves are clean and well-organized, offering a respectful glimpse into the daily lives of these noble creatures.
Understanding the 'Mews' Name
Over time, the term evolved. As the importance of hawks for royal sport declined, the buildings were repurposed. The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace, for instance, became the primary location for housing the monarch's horses and carriages. This historical shift in function is why we now associate 'mews' with stables and coach houses, particularly those serving royal or aristocratic households.
This historical context adds another layer of interest to a visit to the Royal Mews. It’s a reminder that even seemingly simple names can carry centuries of history and change. Understanding the etymology of 'mews' enriches the visitor's appreciation for the heritage on display.
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