Buckingham Palace opens East Wing for visitors

King Charles has delighted royal enthusiasts by deciding to open Buckingham Palace to the public.

The Palace's East Wing balcony, known for its role in countless national events, will now be accessible for the public to experience firsthand.

According to the Royal Collection website, starting next week, the newly refurbished east wing will be opened to visitors. Guided tours will take visitors through the state rooms and the impressive 240 ft-long main corridor, home to the Yellow Drawing Room and Centrepiece Room behind the balcony. Although stepping onto the balcony is not permitted, visitors can enjoy stunning views down The Mall.

Constructed to accommodate Queen Victoria's expanding family, the east wing enclosed what was once an open horse-shoe-shaped royal residence. The sale of George IV's Royal Pavilion in Brighton funded this grand construction, with ceramics and furniture from the Royal Collection influencing the decor.

Visitors with a standard £75 ticket for the state rooms can explore 19 rooms used by the royal family for official events. In the ballroom, a new portrait of the King by artist Jonathan Yeo can be admired.